For the UK to achieve net-zero carbon emissions by 2050, the cooling industry must radically improve the efficiency of equipment and switch to ultra-low global warming potential refrigerants. Andy Pearson looks at a proposed timetable for action
Category: Technical
Designing community heat pumps systems for heat networks
Over the past 18 months, heat pumps have replaced CHPs on heat networks, according to FairHeat’s Michael Ridge. The challenge now, he says, is to integrate the technology successfully, while still providing reliable and affordable heat for customers and residents
Guide to low loss headers
Achieving hydraulic separation through well-designed low loss headers is key for efficient heating and cooling systems. David Palmer and Baxi Heating’s Ryan Kirkwood provide detailed design guidance, including a recommended system configuration
Making hydrogen work for commercial buildings
Any conversion from natural gas to hydrogen in the grid must cater for commercial and industrial heating. Enertek International’s Paul Needley and Frazer-Nash Consultancy’s Stephen Livermore explore the challenges
CIBSE’S essential travel guide
CIBSE Guide D: 2020 Transportation systems in buildings includes the latest in vertical transportation, including ropeless lifts and accessibility for older people. Dr Gina Barney HonFCIBSE and Adam Scott FCIBSE summarise its content
Measuring indoor air quality in Passivhaus primary schools
Evidence from a study on indoor air quality in two Passivhaus primary schools reinforces the importance of well thought out ventilation and control of outdoor pollution
Lessons learned: UCL and Buro Happold’s award winning project review guidelines
University College London’s award-winning Post-Project Review guidelines – developed with Buro Happold – ensure lessons from projects on its estate are fed back into a process designed to improve building performance and close the performance gap. Phil Lattimore reports
Smart hot water tanks at the heart of the energy transition
Hot water tanks have the potential to store renewable energy, balance the electricity grid, and reduce carbon emissions and utility bills. Alex Smith speaks to Mixergy to find out how the hot water cylinder has the potential to become the smartest technology in the home
Handling Covid risk in thermal wheels
To minimise the risk of Covid-19 transmission in thermal wheels, designers should choose a configuration that minimises recirculation of contaminated air. FläktGroup’s David Black explains the options and how AHU purge sectors can cut the risk further
Platforms for growth: digital engineering for SMEs
Adopting a digital way of working may be daunting for SMEs with a fraction of the budget of big rivals, but Atkins’ Ben Roberts MCIBSE says in-house digital advocates, training and freely available tools can get firms up to speed quickly