AIR TO THE THRONE CIBSE AWARDS | AIR QUALITY SHORTLIST Ahead of this months CIBSE Building Performance Awards, we look at the six shortlisted entries for the Product or Innovation of the Year - Air Quality award S ix companies will be in contention for CIBSEs top accolade for air quality products and innovations at this months Building Performance Awards. A diverse array of products is on the shortlist for the Product or Innovation of the Year Air Quality award, open to entries that significantly enhance the air quality aspect of building performance. The judges said the entries not only showcase a breadth of innovation, but also reveal a keen understanding of the importance of application flexibility while adhering to stringent regulatory standards. They were impressed by the calibre of the shortlist, saying the range of innovations demonstrates that the product doesnt have to be epic to be influential and beneficial. The CIBSE Building Performance Awards will take place on 29 February 2024 at the Park Plaza Westminster Bridge Hotel in London. To book your place visit bit.ly/CIBSEbpa24. CJ Vent-Axia: Sentinel Apex Vent-Axias Sentinel Apex commercial heat recovery unit provides fresh, filtered air, combating indoor air pollution and removing pollutants such as moisture and CO2. With up to 93% energy recovery, the unit efficiently uses waste heat, achieving a market-leading 93% thermal efficiency (EN308 tested). Key features include an automatic summer bypass, motor efficiency equivalent to better than IE5 efficiency class, demand control for optimising IAQ, and ultra-low sound levels. The system was designed for adaptability, energy conservation, and personalised comfort. Vent-Axias in-house testing facility and market research informed the units development, focusing on low specific fan power, efficiency, and low sound levels. The unit, which has been specified but not yet installed, is expected to deliver high performance in diverse climates, addressing the demand for sustainable, energy-efficient building solutions. Stiebel Eltron UK: VLR 70 L Trend Stiebel Eltron UK introduced its VLR 70 L Trend, a decentralised ventilation unit, in response to the need for landlords and property owners to implement measures to deliver good air quality in social housing and commercial properties. This fully automated unit improves indoor air quality, reduces moisture, and recovers up to 92% of heat, in spaces up to 100m2. Installed in pairs either in one or adjoining rooms with good airflow between them one unit will extract while the other brings in fresh air. The units switch several times a minute between each other to allow the heat exchanger to capture energy from the outbound air, which is then picked up by the incoming air. The unit incorporates smart sensors to account for occupancy, humidity and air quality. With a comprehensive filter system, including F7 filters, the VLR 70 L reduces pollutants, allergens and virus particles. Glazpart: Link Vent 4000 The Link Vent 4000, a trickle vent for windows and doors to facilitate passive airflow in dwellings, has received excellent feedback for its simple, user-friendly design. An equivalent area of 4,000mm2 is delivered through a 167mm x 13mm slot, reducing routing machine times and waste materials generated. Further increasing its versatility, the Link Vent 4000 can cool a house when overheating or moderate temperatures through smart ventilation when properties become cold and heating is turned on. The closing action allows more control over draughts by directing air away from occupants, and the split closure plate enables partial opening. The system was created to address the need for ventilation in smaller rooms and aligns with the 2022 legislative changes. Fully compliant with the Building Regulations, the vent enhances air quality and prevents overheating, and received positive feedback from industry leaders. www.cibsejournal.com February 2024 33 CIBSE Feb 24 pp33-34 Air quality ventilation shortlist BPAs.indd 33 26/01/2024 16:56