Previous Projects for more recent projects see case studies above.
Experience Counts
Seven years of commercial work have provided ample opportunities for many projects, often with a focus on Psi-value calculations. However, this work has allowed a diversification into associated fields of work. Some examples include -
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Thermal modelling in 2D and 3D has allowed condensation risk assessments to be performed on complex shapes, often containing metal elements. This has allowed the management of cold spots and risks associated with such thermal bridges. Clients have been able to demonstrate high levels of insulation with no problems.
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Dynamic thermal modelling for innovative house materials and builds.
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U-value and g-factor window calculations, including the building of a bespoke roof light U-value, g-factor and lighting level calculator, where present international standards did not cover the novel materials used.
Two notable projects have been the work done for the most recent NHBC Foundation Guide to Part L, and committee work for the Zero Carbon Hub (Construction Joint Details Work Group). The first was to calculate linear thermal bridging (Psi-values) for robust, commonly used UK construction junctions. The second, was to advise on the issues arising in the commercial process of Psi-value calculation.
PSI-VALUES AND FACADE THERMAL PERFORMANCE
Taylor Wimpey
Thermal modeller for the Taylor Wimpey's initial range of bespoke Psi-values.
The calculations were for the full range of Taylor Wimpey's junction details, based on Accredited Details. The details covered traditional masonry, timber frame, six wall build ups, 3 floor types and numbered 120 details in total. Supplementary details were calculated to cover the introduction of Party Wall junctions.
The focus was on calculating Psi-values for the various specifications, which, with some judicious minor alterations, will produce lower Psi-values than generic system values.
This approach has been repeated for several clients and allows them to build the details that they prefer, and have junctions represented in the regulations appropriately.
Stewart Milne
Involvement in Stewart Milne's industry leading closed panel timber frame system, Sigma II. This system is highly engineered, and has required thermal and value engineering, to optimise the build system.
U-values, condensation risk calculations and 2D and 3D numerical thermal modelling have all been employed in the development of their product.
The Sigma II system has been used to great effect on the AIMC4 project. This project is pioneering the delivery of volume-built, low-carbon housing. Calculations for wall panels of condensation risk, wall U-value and junction Psi-values have been needed in order to meeting the exacting standards required with this pioneering commercial system.
Fleetwood
Fleetwood Architectural Aluminium required a dynamic thermal model of a glazed facade and lift shaft. The lift shaft was passively ventilated and otherwise unconditioned. The project was to predict the air temperature, and provide a solution which kept the air temperature within the lift manufacturer's specified range.
A fluid flow network within ESP-r software allowed a model to be constructed that was both; able to predict responses to wind, temperature, convection and solar driven stack effects, whilst also being light and flexible in calculation.
This allowed a solution comprising a solar control glass and a simple combination of a pair of vents to keep the lift shaft within operating parameters.