New codes and tests designed to root out poorly performing heat networks are shining a spotlight on the supply chain. Alex Smith reports on a new test for heat interface units that will have far-reaching consequences for designers and suppliers
Category: Technical
Body clock wise – lighting design for the circadian cycle
Human-centric lighting is a phrase that has been bandied about over the past couple of years – not least by lighting manufacturers – but what does it actually mean? Jonathan Rush explains
A healthy light style – the biological impact of light
The Well Building Standard considers the biological impact of light – and this ‘melanopic’ approach will have implications for lighting workplaces, says Andrew Bissell
Fresh thinking: Meeting design and cost targets with single-side ventilation in schools
A single-sided ventilation strategy that meets environmental criteria – while upholding design quality – has been rolled out in two Nottinghamshire schools. Breathing Buildings’ Shaun Fitzgerald, Cundall’s Peter Hazzard, and John Leonard, from Nicholas Hare Architects, explain the system
Prevention or cure – legionella prevention in heat networks
There are two options when it comes to safeguarding low-temperature district heating systems from legionella – safe design or sterilisation treatments. Xiaochen Yang, Hongwei Li and Svend Svendsen, from the Technical University of Denmark, look at the options
Testing the water – tackling corrosion in pipework
Unseen corrosion in pipework can have a huge effect on the efficiency of heating and cooling systems. Continual monitoring of water quality helps identify issues at an early stage and helps maximise HVAC performance, says Hevasure’s Steve Munn
Why property owners are putting a price on thermal comfort
Data analytics company Demand Logic is attempting to calculate productivity losses caused by uncomfortable temperatures. Liza Young reports
The perfect return – heat network return temperatures
For a heat network to be energy efficient, it is essential that low flow return temperatures are achieved. Carbon Alternative’s Martin Crane explains why it is so important
Guide B essentials – air conditioning and refrigeration
CIBSE’s seminal guide to HVAC systems has had a major revision. Guide B covers best practice for heating, ventilating, air conditioning and refrigeration, and noise, and features a new online chapter that will be continually updated. Guy Hundy highlights the main changes in the air conditioning and refrigeration section
Packard Foundation HQ: net zero energy CIBSE award winner
The team behind the Packard Foundation HQ, which won the international project of the year accolade at CIBSE’s awards, set out to encourage others in the US by creating a net zero energy building. Andy Pearson explains how they did it