‘Excellent’ energy efficiency through use of Gilberts’ innovative ventilation solution

The UK’s only Marine Enterprise Zone is set to achieve excellence, in part through innovative use of British engineering expertise, courtesy of Gilberts.

Phase 1 of the 35 hectare Oceansgate scheme in Plymouth is the creation of an office block, delivering over 1000 square metres of accommodation over three floors, with a further two terraces yielding 1,200 square metres of light industrial space.

With a BREEAM rating of Excellent, the offices in Endeavour House all feature Gilberts’ innovative Mistrale Fusion (MFS) stand-alone hybrid ventilation, integrated at high level into the façade glazing, specified by consultant engineer Services Design Solution (SDS).

In total, 36 MFS128 units have been strategically positioned across the floor spaces, to provide fresh air with no need for additional ductwork or plant.

Typically automatically controlled using CO2 and temperature sensors, at Oceansgate a manual boost option also gives occupants control over temperature and air quality in both summer and winter – in effect, the system functions primarily as a natural ventilation system, with the built in low energy fan supplementing during the year as conditions demand.

Tom Lawson, SDS Associate Mechanical Engineer, commented: “Plymouth City Council wants Oceansgate to be an exemplar scheme in terms of low energy.

“Gilberts’ MFS gave us a low energy solution, with greater control over internal temperatures and air quality compared to just openable windows in both summer and winter.

“The integrated louvre and ventilation from one source i.e. Gilberts, gave us the performance required with what I believe to be overall economies.”

MFS draws fresh air into the building, using a mixing damper to modulate airflow and mix the incoming fresh air with warmer exhaust air, extracting the heat without the need for a separate exchanger (as required in conventional MVHR systems).

The integrated low energy fan energises to blend the internal air, guaranteeing an even distribution of airflow, with control over temperature and carbon dioxide levels within, and maintenance of a comfortable internal environment for occupants.

In keeping with its ‘green’ credentials, Gilberts maintains MFS can ventilate a typical classroom-sized space for under £5 a year.

Gilberts MFS was the first hybrid stand-alone solution to be developed in the UK. The company has pioneered developments to the concept, now offering a range of additional add-on features, including filter boxes, and a heat coil that can potentially eliminate the need for space heating/radiators within the internal space.

Contact:

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

Phone: 01253 766911
Fax: 01253 767941

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