CPD Programme
Figure 2: Suspended module including radiant heating, lighting and acoustic absorption material
Application of radiant heating Since the heat transfer mode is Naturally ventilated buildings can
panels predominantly radiant, there are fewer successfully employ high-level radiant panels
Radiant heating panels can be surface- parasitic draughts reducing unwanted particularly when combined with acoustic
mounted, freely suspended or integrated air movement in the space, for example lighting rafts (see Figure 2). Services are kept
within a suspended ceiling, and can be in controlled environments, such as at high level, and rafts allow air to circulate,
linked to each other with pipework joined laboratories and clean rooms, where air leaving concrete soffits exposed.
by push-fit flexible hoses. Panels may be and dust movement must be kept to a
grouped to provide zone control (for energy minimum, and also where there are specific Conclusion
efficiency and comfort); directly controlled by air movement regimes required for infection Radiant heating panels are suitable for a
thermostatic valves; or linked into a central control. wide range of applications, particularly in
control system. As with other LPHW systems, radiant the healthcare and educational sectors, and
The arrangement of the panels affects the panels create almost no noise; this can be can help to reduce energy consumption and
water flow resistance; the actual pressure advantageous in areas such as sound studios, hence carbon emissions. As a result they can
drop will be similar to that for an equivalent theatrical, educational and healthcare help meet TERs to satisfy building regulation
length of plain tube – hence it is preferable establishments. requirements while ensuring performance
to arrange panels in parallel (as opposed to Radiant panels are suitable for both and comfort levels are maintained.
series) to minimise operational pressure new build and refurbishment projects. By © Tim Dwyer
drop and pumping costs. increasing the amount of floor area available
The panels, which may be curved and (by, for example, removing a traditional low With thanks to John Staunton of HCP, a division of
profiled to satisfy aesthetic requirements, level perimeter heating system) net lettable SAS International
weigh approximately 15kg per sq m area can be increased, and space flexibility
(depending on manufacturer), and can be may also improve. References
suspended using drop rods, grip wire or Radiant panels can be particularly suitable [1] CIBSE Guide A – Environmental Design.
chain. The exact method of suspension will for the healthcare sector. Anti-bacterial CIBSE, 2006.
be determined by their application. paint finishes are available, which inhibit [2] A, Day, Ratcliffe M, and Shepherd K,
By mounting the heating system at the growth of micro-organisms. Wards are Heating Systems, Plant and Control.
high level, the flexibility of the use of the hence easier to clean, requiring no removal WileyBlackwell, 2003.
occupied space is improved, whilst at the of guards (as would be present in low level [3] HCP, HCP Technical Guidance, 2009.
same time reducing potential damage and systems), and aiding infection control by [4] Kirby, Watson, Radiant heating and
tampering – hence reducing maintenance reducing the cross-infection risks that may be cooling handbook. McGraw-Hill Inc,
requirements and associated costs. The associated with other systems. Anti-ligature 2000.
removal of heating surfaces from the panels may be used in secure facilities, [5] CIBSE Guide B – Heating, ventilating,
reach of occupants also reduces potential such as mental health units, and prisons, to air conditioning and refrigeration, CIBSE.
for injury. minimise the risks of self-harm. 2005.
www.cibsejournal.com June 2009 CIBSE Journal 61
CIBSEjun09 pp59-62 cpd.indd 61 5/28/09 3:12:08 PM
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