"mechanical plant and equipment identification"

Electricity interconnectors play a crucial role in the EU’s strategy to achieve a competitive and integrated European energy market to increase energy security and apply downward pressure to wholesale electricity prices.The 500MW EirGrid East–West Interconnector links the British and Irish markets and brings Britain’s interconnector capacity to 4GW with the 2GW IFA to France, 1GW BritNed cable to Holland and 500MW Moyle interconnector to Northern Ireland.The SolutionThe East-West Interconnector project was financed by a €300 million loan from the European Investment Bank, capital investments from commercial banks, EirGrid equity and a €110 million grant from the European Commission.With such huge sums and massive power in play, security is vital on the 47 miles of subsoil and 116 of submarine cable that connects the Woodland HVDC static inverter plant at Rush North Beach, County Meath, and the Shotton plant on Barkby Beach in North Wales.Zaun secured the two inverter plants for Irish national grid operator EirGrid with around 600 metres of ArmaWeave fencing to 3 metres in height, buried in a concrete cill and combined with a 4.6 metre high Harper Chalice electric fence, which systems integrator Crime & Fire Defence Systems installed.The fence line had to be connected to an intricate underground earthing grid and to incorporate vehicular sliding gates, pedestrian turnstiles and manual gates.ArmaWeave achieves the highest rated standards for fencing defending against forcible attacks. Its unique properties and tight mesh pattern provide no climbing aids and resist cutting attacks with hand, powered and non-contact tools.

The urgent need for a replacement rear goods entrance at a high-turnover commercial fast-food restaurant brought our proposed comprehensive solution to address both security and functionality concerns.Recognising the critical role of a secure entrance in the restaurant’s operations, we recommended the installation of a commercial-grade steel door and frame. This robust system not only provided enhanced security but also ensured ease of use for restaurant staff, crucial for maintaining smooth workflow amid the bustling environment. Anticipating the challenges posed by the high usage typical in such establishments, we tailored the solution to withstand heavy use and abuse, including the impact of large food delivery cages. To bolster the door’s durability, we integrated a custom heavy duty pyramid bumper bar system, extending its lifespan and longevity against daily wear and tear.Moreover, to enhance security measures and streamline access control, we incorporated a digital keypad externally. This feature allowed the door to be kept closed and locked securely while granting staff convenient access from outside. Not only did this improve security protocols, but it also contributed to rodent control efforts by minimising entry points. Additionally, to impress trade visitors and further elevate the entrance experience, we introduced a modern digital video door entry system. This innovative technology provided a seamless connection between the entrance and kitchen staff, enabling real-time visual identification of visitors and ensuring efficient management of incoming deliveries and guests. By seamlessly integrating security, functionality, and modern technology, we successfully revitalised the rear goods entrance, ensuring it could meet the demands of the fast-paced restaurant environment while enhancing overall operational efficiency and security measures.

D-marc 105TM demarcation system – a collective protection demarcation solution. The doctrine “prevention is better than cure” is one that rings true in so many instances. Common sense tells us that it much better to prevent a fall than it is to arrest the fall once it has occurred. The Working at Height Regulations (WAHR’s) 2005 reinforce this argument. Whilst in many instances it is not always practical to remove the risk of a fall; rainwater outlets will always require cleaning, rooftop plant will require regular maintenance etc.. there are a number of ways to protect the worker from the immediate hazard the fall presents. The simplest way and that which much closely echo’s the doctrine “prevention is better than cure” is to keep the worker away from the fall hazard. The most effective way of achieving this and that which is advocated by the WAHR’s is through the provision of a Collective Protection solution. A collective protection solution is one which will “collectively protect all those who access the area”. In a rooftop situation where the hazard is a fall from the roof edge, Collective protection can be achieved by raising the parapet or through the installation of a full perimeter guardrail. Alternatively the worker can be kept a safe distance from the roof edge through the installation of a demarcation system. –Health and Safety in Roofwork HSG 33 states that “where work is not done at the edge, demarcation barriers can be provided at a safe distance from the edge (usually at least 2 meters), e.g. work on an air conditioning unit in the middle of a roof.”.      An example of where The D-marc demarcation system has recently been specified and installed at Crown Woods College, Eltham to provide safe access to rooftop mounted plant. The client was looking for a solution that would;Provide a collective protection solutionNot penetrate the existing roof covering and therefore not compromise the roofs waterproofing or air-tightness.Be lightweight so as not to require an additional support structure.Provide easily identifiable access routes ensuring no exposure to fall hazardsBe low maintenance and ideally have good environmental credentials.  D-marc was able to meet all these criteria and has the additional benefit of giving the customer the piece of mind that whilst it does not rely upon any means of mechanical fixing to the roof structure, it is tested to withstand wind speeds in excess of 105 mph. Such testing is a requirement of BS6399-2 Code of Practice for Wind loads which states that all components that form a building are required to withstand a 1 in 50 year wind speed.   D-marc was used extensively on the project as part of the collective protection demarcation system to create clearly defined safe access routes across the roof to theplaces requiring regular maintenance work. Having created the safe routes to the places of work, the D-marc was then used to demarcate the safe working zones upon the roof top. To ensure a complete collective protection solution was provided in isolated areas where it was not possible to keep the worker away from the fall hazard a guardrail was used. The easy to install, non penetrating D-marc system creates a clearlydefined access route and a safe working zone for all those undertaking regular rooftop maintenance works.

We were delighted to be commissioned by Brogborough Parish Council in Bedfordshire to design, supply, install and safety surface an upgrade to their existing play area, in the summer of 2021. Equipment needed to suit a wide range of ages and as such, a large selection of equipment was included in the scheme. For older children, the Spell Hill multiplay, with its two large slides, rope bridges, towers and climbing activities, was the perfect structure. A bouldering cube provided extra climbing play, whilst perennial favourites in the form of swings and an inclined roundabout complimented the area.For the younger users, a small slide and 4 separate springers including a dog, bike, butterfly and tractor made for a fun, themed area. Given the semi natural location of the playground, surrounded by mature trees and tall grasses, a TigerMulch surface was chosen to compliment the landscape, with its bike like appearance working nicely with the surroundings.

Capstone Farm Country Park covers 114 hectares of former farmland set on the North Downs. There is a variety of habitats within the park, including ancient woodlands, old orchards, a freshwater lake, meadows and hedgerows.DCM worked on the project with HAGS, installing Rubber Mulch to the playground. Natural colours were chosen for the playground, blending in with the surrounding scenery and play equipment. Leaf graphics were created using both Rubber Mulch and Wetpour, bringing life and depth to the park.The Head of Regeneration at Medway Council commented:“Capstone Farm Country Park is one of Medway’s seven Green Flag parks. Thousands of people visit the park each year and we are delighted to have installed new play equipment and surfacing graphics for children to enjoy. I would like to thank our contractors for all their hard work.”

At the end of 2021 we were approached by a couple looking to build their dream retirement home in Braemar.The client's wished to maximise the main aspect to the West, within the tight width of the site, by creating a double height living room with a glazed gable.The final design consisted of a one-and-a-half story dwelling. The client's also chose to install a Mechanical Ventilation & Heat Recovery and Air Source Heat Pump system, with heating supplemented by a feature wood burning stove.

With capacity for almost 4,000 guests and 96 percent occupancy, Longleat Center Parcs had to make sure there was absolutely no disruption for its guests during the refurbishment of its Subtropical Swimming Paradise. Two distinct solutions were proposed – a mechanically fastened system using Sarnafil S327-18EL for the dry side and an adhered system using Sarnafil G410-18EL for the more humid area. Both were specified in Patina Green to blend with the natural environment.

A beautiful mix of a traditional kitchen with modern roof-to-wall glazing by Cantifix has successfully incorporated roof shading to reduce heat and glare.R30 Zipped Roller Blinds were specified by DUST Architecture with the roller mechanism concealed within the back wall of the house. The side channels were powder coated to match the glazing structure. Blinds were made using Goodrich 1% Screen material to provide maximum protection without reducing noticeable light.

The first homes at Barratt Homes’ new energy efficient Hanham Hall development feature Posi-Joists as the floor system of choice. Each home is constructed using highly insulated materials and is fitted with a Mechanical Ventilation with Heat Recovery (MVHR) system, which is why Posi-Joist was the natural choice for the floor system. Kingspan Potton have been involved throughout the design and delivery of the project, supplying both Structural Insulated Panels and the Posi-Joist floors.

Sainsbury's Murrayfield is a new, busy superstore located in the heart of Edinburgh, catering for large numbers of customers and staff. For such a high traffic area, and where security is paramount, System M was specified to meet these needs and offer piece of mind. Its unique emergency release mechanism allows access within 30 seconds and a sturdy design is ideal to withstand the heavy usage. There was also the requirement for the washroom facilities to follow the corporate identity present throughout all Sainsbury's branches.

Data Centre’s are one of the many sectors to be seen to utilise the roof spaces. In particular to Data Centre’s; Mechanical and Engineering services are typically installed on rooftops that offer multi-functional elements to the building, making the selection of the roof system more critical. There are a number of factors that are considered when selecting roof waterproofing systems, they should be robust and offer the benefits to future retrofits along with the accessibility for adaptions but most importantly they should be certified to both the Building Standards and the Insurers Requirements.

Project:Surespan designed and manufactured a massive Biomass access hatch for a fuel plant in Coatbridge, Scotland.ProductBiomass Cover features an opening 3500 (137?) x 4000 (157?) with a sliding cover features fixed external rails and electric operation.A further two sliding covers were supplied sized 2500 x 4000 and 1500 x 4000mm

Project:Surespan designed and manufactured a massive Biomass access hatch for a fuel plant in Coatbridge, Scotland.ProductBiomass Cover features an opening 3500 (137?) x 4000 (157?) with a sliding cover features fixed external rails and electric operation. A further two sliding covers were supplied sized 2500 x 4000 and 1500 x 4000mm

Work started on improvements to the town’s thoroughfare in May 2015 with Contractors Dawnus Construction assigned for the main phase of the project in conjunction with Denbighshire County Council. It involved the complete reconstruction of the carriageway and footways in the southern section of the high street between Wellington Road and Kinmel Street. Trees were planted and new seats and new litter bins were installed throughout.

Bristol Paintworks is a hugely successful brownfield renovation project, transforming a decaying, disused industrial site into a thriving place to live and work.The scheme’s concept was founded on nature, with a desire to create a subtle Mediterranean look and feel using appropriate planting, landscaping and paving. Marshalls Modal Paving and Natural Elements benches were chosen to help complete the vision.

The new floor needed to not only support the building’s operational activity but it would have to maintain its aesthetic appeal despite the onsite challenges which would include heavy equipment, impacts, wear and tear from light pallet trucks and foot traffic, point loading and more.

Brunswick House is a superb new residential scheme of 251 bedrooms, incorporating a mixture of studios and cluster rooms. The scheme is designed to offer outstanding student accommodation for undergraduate, postgraduate and international students in the heart of Cambridge. The client required stair nosings for 7 staircases meaning a total of 296 steps that would be durable enough for high traffic student usage. There was an additional design restraint in that the staircases would be made out of cast metal and therefore no mechanical fixings could be used.

Renovations to an existing car park were undertaken using the Koster range of epoxy flooring systems. The coatings that were used were carefully selected so ensure that they would stand up to the excessive mechanical stresses expected whilst also ensuring a visually pleasant and safe environment.Koster have a long and successful track record with car park refurbishment projects so if you require any assistance please feel free to contact the Koster Technical team at technical@kosteruk.com.

Owner: Aberdeen Asset Management Principal Contractor: Cemplas Waterproofing & Concrete Repairs Ltd Main Products Used: EMSEAL SJS systemCemplas has recently completed repair works at the Elmsleigh Shopping Centre in Staines, which included the replacement of deteriorated and failing mechanical movement joints in the service decks. The Centre’s retail units are supplied via ramps to these service decks, which carry the delivery traffic above the stores, plus the decks are also used for car parking, meaning that in addition to being fully exposed to weathering, they are subject to almost continuous dynamic loading from traffic up to and including heavy articulated HGV’s. Unfortunately, despite past attempts at repair and resealing, there had continued to be water ingress through these joints, both into the structure and into the retail units that are directly below, resulting in disruption, damage and cost for everyone involved. The innovative Emseal SJS system that includes integral cover plates, but with no mechanical fixings required, was selected by the Project Engineers as being ideal to accommodate the necessary movement, seal the joints and withstand the traffic loadings. Additionally, as access was only required from the top deck to install the Emseal SJS System, Cemplas was able to carry out the works quickly and keep disruption to an absolute minimum.

On the site of a former carpark next to a flyover, Kindred House has become a distinctive silhouette in the skyline of central Croydon.The build utilises over half a million bricks, consisting of Zircon, a white glazed brick and a brown brick, each chosen for their tone and colour variety, which helps create a sense of place and identity for the building.The building is characterised by brick reveals at a depth of three and a half bricks and provides a visual solidity that defines the character of the building.IG Masonry Support was the chosen supplier of masonry support and brick slip solutions for the award-winning project.SolutionIG Masonry Support’s easy-to-install Welded Masonry Support (WMS) was supplied in several variations, including special corner systems for each of the 24 levels of the building, including the parapet. Cast-in Channel was also supplied to the project, providing high adjustability and enabling quick and easy installation of the WMS systems.For the large entrance on the North West elevation, a mechanically-fixed Brick Slip Lintel, compliant with the new Fire Safety: Approved Document B of the Building Regulations, was supplied for a 2035mm opening. The Brick Slip Lintel was designed to suit a soldier course bond pattern with a face height and soffit return of 215mm.For the three brick-deep window reveals, mechanically-fixed B.O.S.S. (Brick on Soffit System) proved the ideal solution. 1242 individual units, in 593 variations were designed, manufactured, and supplied to the project to suit a soldier course bond pattern. A consignment of bricks was collected from site to be utilised on each unit and then once complete, units were delivered to the site, ready to be easily bolted to each Welded Masonry Support system.As well as creating a visually appealing finish, the depth of the window reveals on the Southern and Western elevations has been designed to provide inherent solar shading, mitigating overheating and avoiding the need for mechanical cooling, creating a sustainable benefit of the build.Kindred House is an exemplary build proven by winning the Large Housing Development category at the 2023 Brick Development Association Brick Awards and being shortlisted in the Mixed-Use category at the 2023 AJ Architecture Awards. 

When a Vue Cinema on the outskirts of Doncaster needed a section of the asphalt flat roof refurbished as part of extension and maintenance works, a zero odour solution was required that would allow the building to stay open to the public throughout installation. A liquid waterproofing product was considered ideal to avoid the need for complex edge detailing associated with single ply or bitumen products around the plant.

The modernisation programme of the multimillion pound project involves significant remediation of previously abandoned land, followed by construction of six circular primary settlement tanks (PST) and a large activated sludge plant (ASP) with 10 circular final settlement tanks (FST). This work will lead to significant environmental benefits for the site, improving the outflow, and subsequently the quality, of water entering the Manchester Ship Canal.

DCM Surfaces were contracted to install the surfacing at an “inclusive” play project at Westfield Park, Royal Borough of Kensington & Chelsea.DCM installed Rubber Mulch in various colours and depths around the play equipment on site.Different coloured mulch was used to create shapes and patterns within the park.

Pupils at Tittensor First School love their new PE equipment.The school has invested in a Children’s Activ8 Outdoor Multi Gym, providing a total of eight fitness stations so pupils can enjoy a workout together.The Activ8 puts social inclusion at the heart of school outdoor fitness, attracting even the most reluctant pupils and helping everyone to understand that staying active is important for a long and healthy life.The Activ8 features a range of fun and easy to use outdoor gym equipment.At the centre is the Double Health Walker, which is a bit like an outdoor treadmill. Users march on the spot with their feet in the footboards and their hands on the handrail. This engages the core and gets the legs and lower body moving in a brisk aerobic workout to keep the heart, lungs and circulatory system healthy.Slalom Skiers, which encourage the body to move side to side for good stability and balance, are at either end of the Activ8 multi gym in an arrangement which enables pupils to encourage and motivate each other.The multi gym is completed with a double Waist Twister, wheelchair accessible Tai Chi Discs and a wheelchair accessible arm bike.The Waist Twister, as the name suggests, mobilises the waist and lower body which is complemented by the Tai Chi Discs and Arm Bike for the upper body.As part of our high quality installation service, our teams arranged for the disposal of old equipment and embedded grass mats around the new outdoor multi gym to protect the ground from heavy use.

Arguably the most famous department store in the world, Harrods of Knightsbridge is a huge retail concern with over 5000 staff members working in over 70,000 square meters of retail space split into 300 plus departments over seven floors.When Harrods decided to redesign their staff food court they required double action doors that were aesthetically pleasing, had a high hygienic rating and were easy to use and they also needed a double action door with a 120 minute Fire Rating.SolutionDortek Installed Polyethylene doors that could be used as personnel doors. They also allow easy movement of trolleys and kitchen equipment between the three distinctive kitchen areas. Dortek also installed double-action 2-hour fire rated GRP doors into a 2530mm wide structural opening to enable staff to bring in large pieces of kitchen equipment when necessary.

Armourplan PVC and Recticel Insulation by SIG Design Technology were selected for a 12,000 m2 roof to a bottling plant in a rural location on the outskirts of an historical Derbyshire spa town, known as Project Merlin. The FMCG company chose to build the new facility away from the site of the natural spring, piping the water some two miles out of town to this green field bottling and distribution site.

The main intent of this project was biophilia, and to enhance the well-being along with the overall experience of the spectators. It was a bit challenging as it is both an interior and exterior wall - it is protected from the rain and outside weather, yet still open to it and gets most of the natural daylight that it would get outside. However, with the ANS soil-based living wall system we were able to tailor the plant palette to suit this exposure.

The Client JJ Rhatigan approached us to explore WoodBlocX as an option for the retaining walls, working closely with them our designers finalised plans which included a series of 1m tall terraced walls each containing areas for planting along with a large bench at the base of each to create a series of ‘secret gardens’ nestled below ground level to create the perfect private space of each dwelling.

The MFU1200 door hardware was used for a walk-in closet door in the entrance area of a private residence. The goal of the product was to create a hidden door.In this article, the benefits and objectives of this product will be explored. Specifically, the purpose of this project which was to fulfil the client’s request to “have the closet door look like a wall when it is closed.”PROBLEMKey IssuesThe design goal was to create a closet door that could blend in and look like a wall when it was closed.SOLUTIONThe SolutionThe push-to-open door functionality eliminates the need for a handle to be installed on the front of the door.*The door's handle-less design enables it to flawlessly integrate into the wall and give the impression of being practically invisible.Seamless blending into walls*The MFU1200 is a push-to-open type door hardware that does not require a handle to be installed into or on the front of the door. The handle-less design allows for the door to seamlessly blend into the wall and appear to be almost invisible.*Requires handle on back side of door.Click here to see how it works. This “secret” door is only noticeable when you push it, making it a fun and functional design choice.Maximising space in closetsThe benefits of this product are not limited to its appearance.With conventional swing doors, you have to make room in the opening direction of the door to accommodate its opening radius. However, the MFU1200 allows the door to slide open laterally, maximising the space available in the closet.Maximum 70kg for heavy doorsThe door used in this project has a door height of 2700 mm, a door width of 1200 mm, a load capacity of up to 70 kg and has passed 100,000 open-close tests*, making it suitable for marble doors such as those used in this mansion.In addition, the sliding mechanism is equipped with dual dampers. As a result, the door opens and closes softly and gently, the door an upscale feel.The client commented that the heavy marble doors used with the MFU1200 “closed flat against the wall and moved smoothly.”*Internal testing.This product can be used to create wall-like doors, save space and is compatible with heavy doors making it a versatile product for a variety of home interiors.Click here for product videoClick here for installation video

Runcorn Station Quarter is a series of transformational projects that will together achieve improved connectivity across Runcorn, Halton and the wider Liverpool City Region. A significant milestone has been reached in the development of Runcorn Station Quarter and the results speak for themselves. Halton Borough Council: Led the redevelopment initiative and partnered with various stakeholders.Civils & Lentils Warrington: Collaborated on addressing utility infrastructure and improving functionality.Balfour Beatty: Executed the construction aspects of the redevelopment as Main ContractorsMott MacDonald: Provided engineering design expertise for major infrastructure reconfigurations and the station piazza.WSP in the UK: Surface water drainage design.Runcorn Train Sation has embraced sustainability initiatives, including automated ticketing systems, digital displays for train schedules, energy-efficient lighting and an innovative approach to urban greening using Rootspace G2 recycled tree pits within the hard paved areas.The careful selection of products with meticulous attention to best practice planting methods and ‘Made in Britain’ certification aimed to prevent pavement upheaval, allowing the trees to attain maximum canopy cover without compromising the integrity of the surrounding infrastructure. The Rootspace load-bearing modular cells, combined with GreenBlue’s Arborsoil Hydro, create an environment with uncompacted soil beneath the surface.Incorporating ancillary items such as Arborvents and Castle Tree Grilles further enhances the overall ecosystem for the planted trees. These elements not only facilitate essential airflow but also provide a visually appealing touch above ground.The Freemans Maple and Himalayan Birch Tree species were chosen for the piazza, along with ornamental planting, adding a touch of natural beauty to the space. The community is expected to take pride in the newly created public space, fostering a sense of ownership and connection to the station.Learning outcomes:• This case study demonstrates the effectiveness of a collaborative approach involving public and private entities.• Working in the initial design phases to map and plan the utilities on site, allowing these utilities to flow seamlessly through the Rootspace soil cell system.Runcorn Train Station’s redevelopment showcases a successful collaboration between public and private entities to create a modern efficient, and sustainable transportation hub. The project not only improves the functionality of the station but also contributes to the broader regeneration goals of the scheme. Download our Tree Species Guide today, to ensure the species you are planting has the correct soil volume beneath ground to reach its full potential and enhance your project.

The renowned London project developer Dukelease has renovated six historical buildings in the centre of London, and transformed them into 13 luxurious apartments and penthouses. The apartments were equipped with state-of-the-art building technology – a Gira KNX system with the Gira HomeServer and touch sensors from the Gira E22 in aluminium switch range.

The £230m Princesshay Shopping Centre, in Exeter, officially opened to the public in September 2007, as part of the city’s biggest ever regeneration project, with over 70 shops, cafés and restaurants. The roof of the centre, installed when the building was constructed, had caused various problems throughout its life. A Sarnabar system in Lead Grey was chosen, with a T fleece between the composite deck and the mechanically fastened Sarnafil S327-18EL membrane. On a smaller roof with a plywood deck, Sarnafil G410-ELF, an adhered system with a fleece backing, was specified.

The Sedgewick and Barwick high rise building in Bristol is council owned and has been in need of improvements to prevent damp, cold and condensation. As part of the Bristol Homes Standard, Bristol City Council has been working to provide warm, safe and energy efficient homes for its tenants via its Warmer Homes project. Over 4,000m2 of SPSenvirowall Wall System 2, utilising GEPS with an Envirorend base coat, mechanical fixing and acrylic brick slips was installed as part of the external wall build-up.

Glenpark provides 100 places for 3-4 year olds and eligible two-year olds around the Greenock area, west of Glasgow. A commitment by the Scottish Government to increase free early learning and childcare hours available in Scotland from 600 to 1,140 per year by 2020 proved to be the catalyst for creating this inspiring development Holmes Miller Architects had to ensure that both children and staff could access the benefits of natural light and ventilation, whilst identifying an easy mechanism to control glare and provide shade.

Oaks Park Secondary School, invited Lazylawn East London to tender for around 1000m2 of artificial grass to be installed in the school recreational areas. Due to past experience with artificial lawn installations at the school, with the perimeter of the artificial grass lifting and secured with nails, the school was seeking a more secure and safer perimeter finish for this project. Lazylawn East London proposed VertEdge and the contract was won by Lazylawn last London. VertEdge was used throughout the installation providing a completely safe and secure perimeter finish without the use of mechanical fixings.

No other material could have produced such an exquisite end result as steel for this project in Surrey. Clement were contacted by the owners who wished to replace all of their original steel windows and doors. Following careful consideration of what was available Clement's EB24 suite of steel windows was chosen. The stunning double doors benefit from the use of surface mounted cremone bolts instead of a usual lever locking mechanism which means the centre bar of steel is slim and elegant just like those of the outer frames.