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HEATING, VENTILATION & SERVICES
Linear bar diffusers reduce condensation at the BREEAM Excellent 103 Colmore Row, Birmingham
overall build costs and embodied carbon, and makes a positive contribution to the carbon footprint. However, natural or hybrid ventilation does not suit every building. Hence why we see mechanical ventilation – PIV, CAV, VAV, and other variants. With these, HOW that air is controlled – how it is delivered, circulated, exhausted – is crucial to the success and green credentials of the building when operational or occupied. Thermal diffusers can monitor the indoor air temperature and adjust airfl ow automatically – with no electrical input – to maintain the preset ambient within seconds and thus avoiding excess loading on the building services whilst the BMS senses and adjusts? And diffusers are being developed that can be easily re-positioned across the ceiling as the space below is re- purposed for agile workspaces. Strategic positioning of linear slots vertically by a foyer entrance can create an invisible curtain to control cool air and airborne pollutants every time the door is opened. Placing them in the ceiling above and in front of large glazed areas can help control solar heat gain and remove a ‘hot spot’ for condensation – demonstrated at
103 Colmore Row, Birmingham (pictured). Coanda plates added to swirl diffusers make a dramatic impact on the effi ciency of the ‘airthrow’ across exposed ceilings and avoidance of ‘cold dumping’ – improving occupant comfort. Such seemingly insignifi cant elements make major improvements to the carbon footprint. Advanced software such as Computational Fluid Dynamics (CFD) enable virtual test and validation of ventilation performance, and adjustments to be made to achieve or surpass the targets. The technology also means architects can make the diffusers a focal point of the interior; coanda plates can be made bigger, smaller, of different materials; and swirl diffuser face plates can be perforated to refl ect a brand identity or logo. Or the air supply inlets can be unobtrusive, concealed behind an interior feature. To breathe easy going forward, architects need to work with experts – building services consultants and ideally, manufacturers who have the in-depth knowledge to guide architects.
Ian Rogers is sales director at Gilberts Blackpool
WWW.ARCHITECTSDATAFILE.CO.UK
ADF MARCH 2025
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