Advanced Ergonomic Technologies Ltd (AET), the manufacturer and supplier of the Flexible Space System, its market leading underfloor air-conditioning system, has successfully completed a project for the University of Surrey.
At the centre of the University’s Stag Hill campus, the instantly recognisable gold and glass framed library, which seats over 900 users, 600,000 books and 72,000 e-books, benefits from the use of AET’s innovative air conditioning system all year round.
The client’s brief was to incorporate an air conditioning system for the new 4,950 m² four-storey extension to the University Library that was easy to maintain and reconfigure using on-site general maintenance staff. Not only did the client wish to create minimal disturbance to occupants, but also, through an eco-conscious design achieve an excellent BREEAM rating. All the mechanical services, aided by AET’s Flexible Space System were specifically installed at low level, thus removing the need for a false ceiling and increasing headroom as well as helping to increase the overall space available for the students by 50%.
The architect, RMJM and consulting engineer, EDP Ltd proposed the AET CAM-C underfloor supply and return air system, which was approved by the client for its flexibility and simplicity to maintain. Using AET’s underfloor return air in the raised-access floor satisfied all concerns the University had over future churn. AET has integrated the system with a Nesite raised-access floor, provided in a finish to meet the project specification.
There are a total of 11 CAM over 3 floors serving Fantile units, which are fitted with the newly developed hot water trimming heaters to compensate for the heat loss; a new innovation developed for this project to enhance the EPC rating. Each Fantile unit has its own on-board controller and permits local or remote adjustment of Fan Speed and Temperature so no external sensors are required.
The contract was successfully handed over in July and ready for use in time for the start of the new academic year