Koolduct is the new black for student-union building

Kingspan’s preinsulated KoolDuct system has been installed in the new £6 million student centre of the University of Lincoln, and left exposed against open ceilings painted black as part of the design. The ducting was fabricated from 500 m2 of KoolDuct rigid phenolic insulation panels with black exterior facing for The Engine Shed, the 1500-capacity Students Union entertainment and live-music venue on the Brayford Pool campus. The building was design by the university’s own architectural practice, UL Architects, and is a renovated former engine shed with office accommodation, performance venue and nightclub space, bars and dining. The system was installed by Ducted Air Systems of Lincoln. This contractor had not used KoolDuct products before and took advantage of the Kingspan training course. Director Neville Williams says, ‘It was the first time we had used KoolDuct and, to be honest, we were quite sceptical about it. I thought it would be fragile and wanted to use the old metal ducting — but after using KoolDuct, I’m converted. We were all surprised at how rigid it is and how easy it was to fabricate and install — and its appearance was very good.’ When exposed to fire, the outer surface of KoolDuct boards form a carbonaceous layer which retards further flame spread and penetration, allowing the system to achieve a Class 0 fire rating.

Related links:

• www.koolduct.kingspan.com/