COVER STORY
The simplicity of prefab smoke solutions
The twin priorities of compliance and compatibility have ushered in a rise in demand for prefabricated building services, including ventilation and smoke fans. Here, Colin Moss, car park and smoke control manager at Elta discusses why building and environment engineers should consider prefabricated ventilation solutions
I
n any industry, it can be easy to do things the same way simply because that’s how they’ve always been done. Established practises become almost traditional, and breaking out of routines can be difficult, or even thought of as ‘risky’.
This is certainly the case for building services and ventilation. Traditionally, designers in construction projects have tended to select products for systems in isolation, and not necessarily considering downstream site practicalities. This common practise is widely regarded as a norm for the industry, despite many facing problems with this method. Using prefabricated solutions early in the
project design can be the key to resolve downstream complications before they arise.
Compatibility and compliance
One problem that often occurs includes the miscommunication that can easily happen when ordering from multiple suppliers. This has resulted in fans, controls, or other ancillaries arriving only to be found to be incompatible and leaving project managers having to rethink schedules while re-ordering and awaiting the delivery of the correct part. Even worse is that systems can be site assembled incorrectly, potentially resulting in non- compliance or poor performance. The above scenarios paved the way for prefabricated solutions that prevent incompatibility and compliance problems, improve building site safety, and speak to the environmental obligations that are now part of building site management.
The future is prefab
For smoke fans to be compliant for use in buildings, they must meet the requirements of EN 12101-3, including performance and testing requirements, materials, and installation compliance. Construction projects can benefit from working with suppliers that not only meet the above regulations but are also able to provide prefabricated solutions. Recognising this, Elta has launched its ‘Prefabricated Solutions’ range, which helps avoid the incompatibility issues and the increased risks that come with ordering components from multiple sources that require unnecessary site deliveries, storage, and lifting operations. Prefabricated smoke ventilation systems
from a reputable manufacturer such as Elta meet or exceed building regulations. Decision makers in construction projects should look for prefabricated solutions that offer the highest standards of fire safety coupled with world- class performance.
Advantages of Elta
Electing to go with prefabricated ventilation means that construction projects can benefit from a simplified installation process and reduced project timelines. To help with the selection of prefabricated solutions, Elta’s own selection software can help provide both acoustic and air flow performance data, streamlining the decision-making process. This allows for solutions to be engineered from the early stages of a project and delivered on schedule, as opposed to the traditional method of ordering components for engineering on site, with the inherent risks associated with this course of action.
12 BUILDING SERVICES & ENVIRONMENTAL ENGINEER AUGUST 2024
Elta is accredited to ISO 9001, and with its ‘Prefabricated Solutions’ range, building services engineers can now access a wide range of standard duty fans and smoke fans, with over 150,000 customisations available to suit all different types of application. This industry-leading service helps enhance site safety and efficiency, reduce delays and expenses, while making improved quality accessible to all building services engineers and managers.
For more on Elta’s Prefabricated Solutions, see
EltaUK.com
Read the latest at:
www.bsee.co.uk
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