Natural Ventilation Systems
Natural Ventilation is a proven technique which uses a building’s structure, layout and openings – in combination with naturally occurring elements, such as wind and air flows – to manage the supply, movement and removal of air, efficiently and cost-effectively.
By combining natural resources with intelligent design, effective natural ventilation systems can not only help reduce capital and construction costs, but can also lead to much lower energy usage and therefore a reduced carbon footprint, as well as significantly improving the working environment.
Our extensive range of natural ventilation systems and products achieve this through the process of either ‘wind driven’ or ‘stack’ ventilation. Wind driven systems, which are often roof mounted, provide cost-effective ventilation to occupants; utilising key elements of the design of a building, they take advantage of the natural passage of air.
Stack ventilation relies on the temperature variation between the inside of buildings and external conditions. When there is a temperature difference between these two pockets of air, warmer air will rise above the cold air, creating an upward air stream and so providing flow through a building.
Which Natural Ventilation System is Best?
In our experience, the most efficient and effective naturally ventilated buildings invariably incorporate a combination of both systems, along with good thermal mass.
Our range of product solutions is appropriate for most new build projects, with systems proven in applications throughout the UK, in projects of widely varying scale and complexity. However, if required we can develop bespoke configurations to suit the specific requirements of individual projects – including the development of computer-based control systems.
We are also able to undertake analysis to develop detailed design proposals or, a full thermal modelling analysis, to ensure that any proposed design solution will deliver the required levels of heating and ventilation performance.
If required, once the Natural Ventilation design has been agreed, our own team of experienced engineers can carry out full installation work, allowing us to offer a seamless service, from initial design through to installation and maintenance.
Types of Natural Ventilation Unit
- Low level, wall mounted
- High level, wall mounted
- High level, roof mounted – sometimes refered to as Windcatchers
- External – low level intakes
Natural Ventilation System Components
We draw together different elements from our system components range to meet individual project needs – including Louvres, Dampers and Heater Batteries.
Louvres
Louvres are available in a wide range of options – offering different size, material, blade configuration and mullion options. Finish options include powder coating to any RAL or Syntha Pulvin colour specification.
Standard single bank systems – manufactured from high quality, roll-formed aluminium, these systems are particularly suitable for applications requiring high volume ventilation (such as air conditioning or plant rooms).
High performance single bank systems – for areas that require improved weather protection, this extruded aluminium system delivers a high air flow rate, whilst providing enhanced levels of weather protection.
Triple bank systems (for extreme weather protection) – for applications that require the maximum degree of weather protection, without compromising airflow, triple bank systems are the ideal solution.
Chevron and double blade systems – with two sets of louvre blades inclined at 45 degrees, these systems are particularly appropriate where it is necessary to provide a visual barrier, or for additional weather protection on exposed sites.
Security louvres – where security or vandalism concerns exist, security louvres are available in high grade steel, suitable for even the most demanding applications.
Penthouse and turret systems – used to screen roof-mounted air intakes from view, these four-sided systems are supplied with an integral pitched or sloping roof and are available in a variety of blade configurations to suit particular design and performance needs.
Sand trap/water elimination units – these units effectively separate, trap and remove sand or water in particularly harsh environments, whilst continuing to provide an uninterrupted flow of filtered air.
Dampers
Our range of dampers contains a number of options to suit different design needs, including models with stainless steel and insulated casing and with either manual adjustment or actuator operation.
Tight shut off (to EN1751 Class 4) and thermally insulated – this unit is used to shut off airflow in ductwork where tightness, thermal insulation and reliability are important.
Interlocking blade (tight shut off – suitable for smoke control) – for applications where smoke control is also required these units’ interlocking blades provide tight shut off.
Slim profile damper – for applications with smaller openings.
Combined louvre/damper arrangement – where space is at a premium or there is insufficient room to install a damper behind a louvre, a number of combination options are available.
Heater Batteries
Our heater batteries and controllers have been developed to suit a wide range of applications. If required, products may be incorporated to temper air inlet for low level systems.
Downloads
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Natural Ventilation Brochure | 369 KB |
For more information on natural ventilation systems, please contact your local agent.
