Building data offers valuable insights into performance, so it is essential protocols are in place to ensure digital information imported from the building management system is robust and relevant, says BuroHappold Engineering’s Tom Hopton FCIBSE
Category: Technical
Going to any length – chilled beams at Lambeth Civic Centre
Limited space and the need for flexibility helped drive the specification of chilled beams at Lambeth Civic Centre. Frenger’s Michael Ainley explains
Key changes in the updated Heat Networks Code of Practice
A major update to the Heat Networks Code of Practice includes key performance outputs that allow clients to check their networks are performing as designed. Here, the authors highlight the major revisions
Closing the gaps: creating a joined up approach for ventilation and energy regulations
Guidance on energy and ventilation regulations must be more integrated, say researchers, after their study of UK airtightness tests showed air permeability is often too high for MVHR systems to work optimally. Alex Smith reports
Climb every mountain: BIM from design to operation at Schneider Electric’s Grenoble campus
Can a single BIM model be used from design to operation? Schneider Electric was keen to find out if true BIM was achievable at two flagship new buildings in Grenoble. The company’s Bertrand Lack describes the not inconsiderable challenges to Andrew Pearson
SAP 10: Other factors to consider
Lower carbon factors for grid electricity, in draft SAP 10, will profoundly affect how designers provide heat and power to buildings. Remeha’s general manager, Mike Hefford, puts the case for monthly intensity calculations
Planning effective pipework
The design of a pipework system can have a significant effect on the user experience and even safety of building occupants. Scott James, director at Viega, discusses the factors that building service engineers and consultants need to consider
Playing to the gallery – V&A Dundee’s low carbon strategy
With its bold geometric design in danger of upstaging the exhibits inside, V&A Dundee has been making waves far beyond the museum world. Phil Lattimore looks at how the showstopping design influenced Arup’s low carbon strategy and choice of the renewable energy source
The next phase: heat pumps and PCM
An InnovateUK research project is looking to combine phase change materials with a smart heat pump system to cut energy use, reduce overheating and control humidity in homes. PCM Products’ Sam Gledhill explains how the system works
Taking charge: gas sensors in battery rooms
A build-up of hydrogen in battery stores or charging rooms will create an extremely flammable atmosphere, so detection systems should be competently installed and commissioned, says Medem’s Chris Dearden