Underfloor air-conditioning system solves challenges in Leeds development

19 August, 2006

Offices in this dramatic mixed-use development in Leeds have air conditioning provided by the Hiross Flexible Space System from AET installed under the floor.

Technical issues associated with providing air conditioning for 630 m2 of prime commercial office space in the 15-storey mixed-use Whitehall Quay development in Leeds have been addressed using the Hiross Flexible Space System from AET. Its use was specified by project consultant Gilfillan Associates for developer K. W. Linfoot Plc. The development also includes 193 high-specification apartments, restaurants and other units. The office accommodation is in three glass-clad storeys at the top of the building. Exposed castellated steel beams beneath the concrete floor labs create an impressive architectural feature but prevent the use of ordinary air-conditioning systems. Instead, the Hiross system is installed in raised access floors 250 to 300 mm deep. Within the floor void is a duct-free air-conditioning and ventilation system, plus all cable and power-distribution services. Each floor is divided into separate air-conditioning zones, each supplied with cooled or heated air by a conditioned-air module (CAM). The floor void is split into supply- and return-air plena using baffles that can be easily moved. Supply air is drawn into the occupied space by fan-assisted terminal units recessed into the floor. Grilles in the floor above the return-air plena enable air to return to the CAM. Since the grilles are not restricted by duct or pipe connections, they are easily interchangeable with other floor panels as required.

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