We can then use a range of simulation tools to optimise and refine the design, in order to deliver the best possible solution for a specific site.
Across the entire project, we have minimised the variety of types and sizes of equipment and distribution modules.This is to ensure repeatability, without compromising the performance of the building, both in terms of energy consumption and user comfort.
Doing this allows us to combine efficiency of performance with economies of scale on buying, for example, larger quantities of single gauge of pipe.. For ease of installation, we use pre-wired electrical products wherever possible.Fan and pipe modules are fabricated off-site, designed for simple connection on site.. We pre-cast a pattern of fixing points into the soffit, so that there would be no drilling into the soffit onsite – avoiding working at height, dirt, noise and the risk of drilling into the steel rebar within the concrete.The pattern of the fixing points caters to full range of M&E service elements, according to size and purpose: some are attached to unistrut, some are on frames or drop rods, and some are fixed directly to the soffit.
But in order to keep fixings and supports to a minimum, fixing requirements for all M&E services are considered in coordination and designed to be shared between modules / equipment.They are also pre-attached offsite wherever possible, ready to fix to the pre-cast points.. Pre-assembled pipe modules massively reduce the amount of working at height required.
Pipework is assembled in its frame off-site.
The frame then serves as its support for transport purposes, and allows for stacking of multiple units.The impact of the timber industry on the natural environment.
To meet increased demand for engineered timber, we need to carefully consider land availability and the impact on ecosystems..While sustainable forest management (FSC or PEFC) is the best tool available to ensure a reasonable exploitation of timber, these certifications aren’t perfect.
Natural forests are complex biodiverse ecosystems that capture carbon, not just in trees but also within soil.A ‘tree plantation’ unlike a forest, may not enhance biodiversity and may have a reduced capacity to store carbon in the soil.. One major risk related to carbon accounting and forest management is that Environmental Product Declarations (EPDs) may not adequately account for the carbon released from decaying root net and from the soil when cutting trees.