For the first time in a real office setting, a study has been carried out into the impact of a dynamic, spectrally tunable lighting system on the wellbeing of its occupants. Rohit Manudhane outlines the aims, methodology and initial conclusions of the research
Category: Technical
Showcasing net-zero: Event Complex Aberdeen’s energy strategy
The Event Complex Aberdeen has a sophisticated energy strategy combining anaerobic digestion, hydrogen fuel cells and CHP plant. Andy Pearson talks to HDR | Hurley Palmer Flatt about the system design, which also produces hydrogen for a fleet of local buses
Alight and well: lighting for healthcare environments
Lighting of healthcare environments is moving beyond clinical necessity. Andrew Bissell examines the critical need to consider the non-visual, as well as the visual, aspects of illumination
Growing interest: using wastewater to heat Britain’s giant greenhouses
To minimise carbon emissions, developers behind two huge greenhouses in East Anglia are using heat from nearby wastewater treatment plants to provide perfect growing conditions. Phil Lattimore reports on the innovative engineering behind the facilities
What is the most efficient system for heating zero carbon homes?
What is the most effective way of heating our future zero carbon homes? Chris Twinn has been researching the issue for five years and has found that standalone ‘autonomous’ heat recovery systems offer the most benefits when considering high-density homes
A condensing guide to CHP efficiency
CHP can offer savings in applications with high, constant heat demand, but how designers integrate it will impact on the benefits. Remeha’s Ryan Kirkwood considers the options in the first of a two-part series
Level best: highlights from the 10th Symposium on Lift and Escalator Technologies
The 10th Symposium on Lift and Escalator Technologies covered simulation, connectivity and safety, as the Lift and Escalator Industry Association’s Nick Mellor reports
In the pipeline – is hydrogen a potential low carbon replacement for natural gas?
Hydrogen is being widely touted as a potential low carbon replacement for natural gas but, for it to succeed industry will need to address substantial challenges. Andy Pearson speaks to the pioneers in the sector to see what progress is being made
Roundtable: the importance and appropriateness of material selection when specifying pipework
Appropriate material selection for pipework is essential if HVAC systems are to be fully optimised. At a roundtable sponsored by Geberit, experts from across the supply chain discuss the current issues around pipework specification. Amanda Birch reports
Case study: One Angel Square, Northampton
Robust modelling and an intelligent redesign enabled BDP to retain natural ventilation in Northamptonshire County Council’s new offices. Andy Pearson finds out how collaborative value engineering resulted in a CIBSE Building Performance Award