HOW MARKS AND SPENCER KEEPS ITS COOL

AET have supplied a specially developed Hiross raised floor which creates a plenum through which the stores are sucking cold air, using extractor fans. Cold air coming out of the chiller display cabinets is taken through the Hiross floor plenum and is ultimately returned to the main air conditioning system so reducing the load on chillers and saving significant amounts of energy.

As with any sector, retail stores are continually seeking to save energy but air conditioning demands remain high given the need for extensive lighting and wide doors. Traditional air-conditioning creates the familiar forest of pipes and dummy columns which are needed to house air retrieval ducts. By taking air through the floor, the Hiross system allows retail stores to save energy while keeping displays and walkways attractive and producing the optimum environment in which to shop.

Prior to the Hastings and Bath installations, AET created a full-size test mock-up which was visited by senior Marks and Spencer executives. Guests were shown computer simulations of stores with the air retrieval duct and pipe-work removed. The raised floor was subjected to stringent analysis by Marks and Spencer at Taylor Woodrow’s research laboratories where it was evaluated through various insertion and soakage tests which analysed performance after spillage of bleach, cooking oil etc.

The underfloor route has a number of advantages over conventional techniques. The columns which traditionally return cold air from low levels to air conditioning ductwork in the ceiling void are no longer required. This improves the aesthetics of the food hall allowing more open views across the room. Another significant advantage of the underfloor route is its versatility. Refrigerators may be relocated and, at periods of peak demand, additional chill cabinets and fridges can be installed on a temporary basis.

Glan Blake Thomas, AET Managing Director comments: "With health and safety legislation becoming increasingly stringent, air conditioning remains a prime concern for those responsible for maintaining food halls. In addition to the many ergonomic and aesthetic advantages, the Hiross system can be installed more quickly than traditional systems, so minimising loss of store revenue. It is gaining major endorsements form blue chip clients world-wide".

 
For technical information contact:
Glan Blake Thomas at AET on
Tel: 01883 744860 Fax: 01883 741 866
Web Site: www.FlexibleSpace.com
Email: AET@FlexibleSpace.com