HVAC
Richard Braid, MD of Pendock, explains why pre-formed pipe boxing is a simple, time- saving solution that combines practicality, aesthetics, flexibility and function.
ON THE PIPELINE
The pipework associated with HVAC systems has an essential role to play in keeping commercial buildings comfortable, and running smoothly, efficiently and safely. Of course, heating and cooling requirements can change over time, leading to the installation of new HVAC equipment, and leaving the facilities manager with new pipework configurations to manage – not just for aesthetic purposes, but also for safety.
HVAC pipework isn’t usually considered attractive, and it can compromise a property’s interior design. Building owners and managers, and indeed occupants, will often want it hidden from view (‘boxed in’) for a neater, more streamlined look (unless the building has an industrial feel – if this is the case, pipework is often left exposed to emphasise this particular style).
Concealing pipework also helps to protect it; accidental, or even deliberate, damage to pipework carrying water or gas is a risk for many buildings, and it can have major consequences, including huge repair costs. Furthermore, if HVAC equipment is installed in a health or social care environment, concealing the pipework is likely to be a safety requirement, with the surface temperature of exposed pipework posing a burn risk for vulnerable people.
When employing a contractor to conceal HVAC pipework, it’s important to assess the method they are planning to use. Some will fabricate boxing in sections from wood or MDF, which involves cutting the material to size, gluing it around the pipework and priming and painting it. This takes time – and is therefore costly, delays completion and inconveniences building occupants. In addition, the results are not always satisfactory in terms of aesthetics and consistency of fit and finish, and sections can be difficult and time-consuming to remove when pipework needs to be inspected or maintained, possibly resulting in refurbishment costs.
42 | TOMORROW’S FM
Using made-to-measure, pre-formed pipe boxing is an alternative option that combines practicality, aesthetics, flexibility and function. It’s a cost-effective, easy-to-fit, time-saving solution; we estimate it takes half the time to fit compared to on-site fabrication.
Lengths of pipework running along walls, skirting boards or ceilings can be concealed and protected with pre- formed pipe boxing, which can be fitted horizontally, vertically and in corners. Meanwhile, boiler pipe casings can be used beneath boilers, wrapping around the pipework for a neat look.
When pipework needs to be accessed for maintenance, or it’s being repositioned because the building layout is changing, pre-formed solutions can be easily removed and refitted – although access panels can also be installed. Similarly, boiler casings provide full and easy access to the pipework and underside of the boiler for future repair and maintenance work and annual servicing.
Manufactured in Britain, Pendock’s hardwearing pipe boxing covers and protects soil and waste pipes, water supply pipework, heating services and cabling. In addition, we offer solutions for covering heating emitters, as well as low surface temperature radiator guards that reduce the risk of burn injuries and include an anti-bacterial coating that kills MRSA, Salmonella, E. coli and C. difficile. Our solutions are available in a range of sizes and colours in pre-formed wood or metal, but bespoke products can be made to order to complement any interior design.
Many building owners and managers will want HVAC pipework covered for aesthetic and safety purposes. Pre- formed pipe boxing quickly and easily conceals lengths of pipework, and boiler pipework casings neaten the area underneath a boiler – providing a practical, cost-effective, time-saving solution.
www.pendock.co.uk/pipe-casings/ twitter.com/TomorrowsFM
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