New air movement testing validates natural ventilation solutions

The new air movement test centre, officially opened by the new Chief Executive of the Federation of Environmental Trade Associations Russell Beattie

The new Gilberts of Blackpool air distribution test laboratories is the only one offered in-house by a UK natural ventilation manufacturer.

Accurate testing of air distribution products

The 400m³ centre enables thorough, accurate testing of air distribution grilles, diffusers and natural ventilation terminals to establish their full aerodynamic performance including throw, temperature, pressure and acoustic data.

Research & Development suite is fully equipped with data logging to precisely monitor and record tests, whilst the viewing gallery enables clients to see the test ‘live’.

Roy Jones, Senior Technical Manager at Gilberts of Blackpool: “The new test centre enables us to rigorously check the validity of our component design,” explains “For our standard products, it reinforces our existing product data but it also allows us to easily develop special designs to meet project requirements. With more and more customers asking for special designs we can demonstrate that their scheme will deliver, safe in the knowledge it has been thoroughly performance-tested. Where necessary, the design can also be fine tuned before final production, delivery and installation on site.

• Centre will also be accessible for independent research into future air movement strategies

Russell Beattie, Chief Executive of the Federation of Environmental Trade Associations: “Gilberts of Blackpool has a reputation for its ability to deliver bespoke air movement solutions that enable the building services within our new commercial and public buildings to be as sustainable as possible. Their investment in the new test centre demonstrates their ongoing commitment to quality and to helping the industry develop.” 

Main test room

Compliant with, or exceeds, ISO5219, and comprises a 12m x 6m x 2.8m (200m³) structure with two insulated walls, one simulated outside wall, and one wall which can be designated internal or external. A modular floor is mounted on jacks allowing adjustment down to 100mm high.

Air handling

Infinitely variable via a 2.0m3/sec fan with Chiller/heater batteries capable of delivering extreme design conditions and heat lamps able to simulate sunlight over a glazed facade. Ducting has been designed to allow air to be delivered and/or exhausted through all types of air terminal devices in every different mounting positions- floor, wall or ceiling.

Smoke generator

Can be controlled from the observation gallery, with facilities installed to provide video or still images of the smoke dispersion.

• new test centre compliments ‘s 85000ft² manufacturing facility
• manufactures every component in house
• one of the UK’s largest manufacturers of grilles and louvres
• growing force in the design and supply of natural ventilation solutions for the commercial sector.

Contact:

Gilberts of Blackpool,
Gilair Works,
Clifton Road,
Blackpool,
FY4 40T

Phone: 01253 766911
Fax: 01253 767941

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