Sustainable technology firm, Recycl8, has completed its first commercial project in the ports sector, supporting Haventus with work on the Ardersier Port east of Inverness. Recycl8 teamed up again with construction materials company Breedon Group, to pour 52 cubic meters of its sustainable, lower carbon R8 Mix concrete for a
Introduction to Metalworking Fluids (MWFs) Metalworking fluids (MWFs) are an indispensable product within the railway industry, facilitating the machining and shaping of metals by providing lubrication and cooling properties. Often referred to as suds, coolants, slurry, or soap, these fluids find their application primarily in machine shops or maintenance areas
When it comes to creating a comfortable and energy-efficient home, we often think about insulation, windows, and heating systems. But what about doors? Yes, you read that right—doors play a significant role in maintaining your home’s energy efficiency. From keeping the heat in during winter to blocking out the scorching
Sustainable technology firm, Recycl8, has completed its first commercial project in the ports sector, supporting Haventus with work on the Ardersier Port east of Inverness. Recycl8 teamed up again with construction materials company Breedon Group, to pour 52 cubic meters of its sustainable, lower carbon R8 Mix concrete for a weighbridge project at the port. The Project at the port used Recycl8’s R8 mix, which is made from recycled materials, in combination with the Breedon Balance range of products, known for its performance and commitment to sustainability. Mark Gillespie, CEO of Recycl8, said: “The last 6 months have been particularly exciting for Recycl8 with our first commercial pours in the housing and industrial sectors and now our first port project, marking another milestone for us. We believe that our R8 mix technology is very much the future of the construction industry achieving sustainability goals and are delighted to be partnering once again with Breedon Group and also supporting Haventus, two companies who are very much aligned with our vision for what is possible in the industry, without compromising on performance.” Craig Godsman of Breedon Group said: “Working in conjunction with Recycl8 and Haventus is a great platform to show how we can design and produce low carbon concrete as part of our Breedon Balance range. With Recycl8’s mix along with low carbon cement replacements, we are able to produce high quality concrete suitable for all kinds of environments with lowered CO2 values. Recycl8 works in collaboration with the waste-to-energy and global construction industries to transform Incinerator Bottom Ash (IBA) normally destined for landfill into a high-performing, lower carbon concrete solution. Building, Design & Construction Magazine | The Choice of Industry Professionals
Introduction to Metalworking Fluids (MWFs) Metalworking fluids (MWFs) are an indispensable product within the railway industry, facilitating the machining and shaping of metals by providing lubrication and cooling properties. Often referred to as suds, coolants, slurry, or soap, these fluids find their application primarily in machine shops or maintenance areas where intricate tools such as lathes, CNCs, or drills are utilised to shape metal components essential for railway operations. Understanding the Concerns Surrounding MWFs While MWFs offer significant utility in metalworking processes, they also present notable health concerns for railway workers. Prolonged exposure to these fluids can lead to various adverse health effects, including skin irritation, dermatitis, and significant respiratory ailments such as occupational asthma and bronchitis. The potential for debilitating and long-term health impacts on railway personnel underscores the critical importance of addressing MWF-related hazards effectively. Routes of Exposure to MWFs Workers in the railway sector face exposure to MWFs through multiple routes, depending on their roles and the nature of their activities. Inhalation of mist generated during machining processes, direct skin contact with unprotected areas, and ingestion due to inadequate hygiene practices represent primary routes of exposure that necessitate careful consideration. Implementing Effective Controls for MWF Exposure Mitigation To mitigate the risks associated with MWF exposure, the adoption of robust control measures is imperative: Additional Considerations and Resources Beyond direct exposure during machining activities, attention must also be directed towards associated processes such as storage, dilution, cleaning, and disposal of MWFs. Comprehensive management strategies should encompass these areas to ensure adequate risk mitigation and regulatory compliance. A wealth of resources, including guidance materials from the Health and Safety Executive (HSE) and industry associations such as the United Kingdom Lubricants Association, offer invaluable insights into best practices for MWF safety and compliance. Moreover, our team stands ready to provide expert assistance and support in navigating the complexities of MWF management within the railway sector. How can we help? Our team specialises in occupational hygiene and offers tailored support to enhance Metalworking Fluids (MWFs) safety in the railway sector. Our expertise ensures comprehensive coverage of hazards, proactive measures, and worker awareness, fostering a safer work environment. With our assistance, railway companies can prioritise safety while maintaining operational efficiency. For more information or assistance with customised MWF safety measures, get in touch. Building, Design & Construction Magazine | The Choice of Industry Professionals
When it comes to creating a comfortable and energy-efficient home, we often think about insulation, windows, and heating systems. But what about doors? Yes, you read that right—doors play a significant role in maintaining your home’s energy efficiency. From keeping the heat in during winter to blocking out the scorching sun in summer, doors are more than just entryways; they’re essential components of a well-insulated and sustainable home. In this article, we’ll explore how doors contribute to a home’s energy efficiency and share tips on how to maximise their impact. Material Selection When it comes to energy efficiency, not all door materials are created equal. While traditional wood doors offer timeless beauty and charm, they may not provide the same level of insulation as their fibreglass or steel counterparts. Modern internal glass doors and steel doors are known for their durability, low maintenance, and superior insulation properties, making them excellent choices for energy-efficient homes. Additionally, consider opting for doors with energy-efficient cores and frames, such as those made from foam insulation or thermal breaks, to further enhance efficiency. By choosing the right materials for your doors, you can significantly reduce energy loss and improve the overall sustainability of your home. Insulation One of the primary ways doors contribute to energy efficiency is through insulation. Just like walls and windows, doors help to keep the indoor temperature stable by preventing heat from escaping in winter and cool air from seeping out in summer. A well-insulated door acts as a barrier between the interior and exterior of your home, reducing heat transfer and minimising the workload on your heating and cooling systems. To maximise insulation, look for doors with features like insulated cores, low-emissivity (low-E) glass panels and weatherstripping. These features help to seal gaps and reduce drafts, keeping your home cosy and comfortable year-round. Air Leakage Did you know that air leakage through doors can account for a significant portion of your home’s energy loss? It’s true—gaps and cracks around doors allow warm or cool air to escape, forcing your heating and cooling systems to work harder to maintain the desired temperature. That’s why it’s essential to ensure that your doors are properly sealed to minimise air leakage. Simple fixes like installing weatherstripping or door sweeps can make a big difference in reducing drafts and improving energy efficiency. Additionally, consider upgrading to energy-efficient doors with tight seals and multi-point locking systems to further enhance insulation and minimise air leakage. Solar Heat Gain While natural light is a welcome addition to any home, excessive solar heat gain can lead to discomfort and increased cooling costs, especially during the hot summer months. That’s where doors with proper shading and glazing come into play. By choosing doors with low-E glass or reflective coatings, you can block out a significant portion of the sun’s heat while still allowing natural light to filter into your home. Additionally, consider installing doors with built-in shading features like blinds or shades to further reduce solar heat gain and maintain a comfortable indoor temperature. With the right doors in place, you can enjoy the benefits of natural light without sacrificing energy efficiency. Conclusion From insulation and air leakage prevention to solar heat gain control and material selection, the impact of doors on energy consumption cannot be overstated. By investing in high-quality, energy-efficient doors and implementing simple fixes to seal gaps and minimise air leakage, you can create a more comfortable, sustainable, and cost-effective living environment for you and your family. So the next time you’re thinking about home improvements, don’t overlook the importance of doors—after all, they’re not just entryways; they’re energy-saving heroes.
