Products & Materials : Building Systems & Appliances News
Signify, Pineapple Partnerships and Schneider Electric Launch Pineapple CoRE, a Collaboration to Accelerate Decarbonisation in Commercial Real Estate

Signify, Pineapple Partnerships and Schneider Electric Launch Pineapple CoRE, a Collaboration to Accelerate Decarbonisation in Commercial Real Estate

Signify (Euronext: LIGHT), the world leader in lighting, Pineapple Partnerships, the systems change focused consultancy, and Schneider Electric, the leader in the digital transformation of energy management and automation, today announced Pineapple CoRE, a strategic collaboration designed to accelerate decarbonization across the the commercial and industrial property sector. Initially focusing

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fire safety solutions siemens

Irish Prisons Benefit from Siemens Fire Safety Upgrade

A fire safety solution from Siemens for the Irish Prison Service (IPS) is providing protection for inmates and staff across eight prisons, significantly reducing the chances of false alarms while saving valuable resources. The IPS, operating under the Department of Justice, is a crucial part of the criminal justice system.

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Schneider Electric Launches Impact Buildings Program with First Site in Dubai

Schneider Electric Launches Impact Buildings Program with First Site in Dubai

Schneider Electric, the leader in the digital transformation of energy management and automation, today launched its first Impact Building in Dubai as part of its new Impact Buildings Program.    As the world’s most sustainable company, Schneider Electric’s Impact Buildings Program aims to drive sustainability through its own global commercial real

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Intatec unveils heat pump innovations at Installer Show 2025

Intatec unveils heat pump innovations at Installer Show 2025

Intatec, one of the UK’s leading manufacturers of heating and plumbing products, is returning to the Installer Show 2025 – joined on stand 5B60 by group brands ActivTec and Zilmet UK. Taking place at the NEC, Birmingham from 24th –26th of June, this year’s exhibit puts the spotlight firmly on

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EDSB and Siemens protect a major new UK warehouse

EDSB and Siemens protect a major new UK warehouse

The benefits of the partnership approach adopted by Siemens has been demonstrated in a project by EDSB to develop a fire detection and air sampling solution for a new warehouse operated by one of the UK’s most prominent retailers. The facility in Warrington saw some 1,000 devices installed to protect

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Latest Issue
Issue 330 : Jul 2025

Products & Materials : Building Systems & Appliances News

Signify, Pineapple Partnerships and Schneider Electric Launch Pineapple CoRE, a Collaboration to Accelerate Decarbonisation in Commercial Real Estate

Signify, Pineapple Partnerships and Schneider Electric Launch Pineapple CoRE, a Collaboration to Accelerate Decarbonisation in Commercial Real Estate

Signify (Euronext: LIGHT), the world leader in lighting, Pineapple Partnerships, the systems change focused consultancy, and Schneider Electric, the leader in the digital transformation of energy management and automation, today announced Pineapple CoRE, a strategic collaboration designed to accelerate decarbonization across the the commercial and industrial property sector. Initially focusing on the UK, the collaboration is scalable for global deployment.   The initiative unites market leading consultancy by Schneider Electric that helps organisations map their critical infrastructure and unlock the opportunities available to them around efficiency, sustainability and modernisation, Signify’s connected lighting solutions, and Pineapple Partnerships’ systems-change consultancy, offering a turnkey pathway for property owners and operators to overcome common barriers to decarbonisation—such as access to finance, fragmented supply chains and skills shortages. Edwards Vacuum, part of the Atlas Copco Group, is the first organisation to benefit from the CoRE model. At its Clevedon manufacturing site, a suite of energy interventions is being implemented, including: These measures target a 35% reduction in energy consumption and over 80% reduction in emissions at the site. The initiative supports Edwards’ Vacuum broader sustainability goals, including 46% cuts in Scope 1 and 2 emissions, and 28% in Scope 3 by 2030. The current site served as a successful pilot, with CoRE now rolling out to other locations in the UK and the rest of the world.  Commenting on the work to date collaboration, Chris Adams, Site Manager, Edwards, Clevedon said “Working with Pineapple Partnerships has been a game-changer in accelerating our factory’s carbon reduction efforts. Their expert assessment of our energy performance has enabled data-driven decisions, including the transition from gas heating to air source heat pumps and the installation of solar panels across our factory roof. The collaboration they’ve facilitated with experts such as Signify and Schneider Electric has significantly shortened our learning curve, allowing us to explore and implement best-in-class solutions with confidence. This integrated approach has increased the pace of implementation and reduced risk, helping us move towards a truly sustainable and future-ready energy system. The interventions currently being installed aim to reduce energy usage by up to 35% and emissions by over 80%.” Commenting on the collaboration, Nico van der Merwe, Cluster Leader, Europe West said “Signify thrives on partnerships, and CoRE is a powerful example of how collaborations can unlock decarbonisation at scale. As a global leader in lighting and sustainability, we know that upgrading to LED and connected lighting is one of the fastest, most cost-effective, and impactful actions building owners can take to reduce energy use and carbon emissions. Through occupancy-based controls and remote monitoring, connected lighting drives efficiency and enhances operational visibility. CoRE combines these proven technologies with financial and delivery innovation – enabling our clients to act now, at pace and scale. We’re proud to be working alongside Pineapple Partnerships and Schneider Electric to help organisations like Atlas Copco accelerate toward net-zero and build a more resilient, sustainable built environment in the UK and beyond.” Commenting on the collaboration, Rupert Snuggs, Managing Director, CoRE said “We are delighted to work with our world leading collaborators Signify, Schneider Electric and Atlas Copco as we take the first step on our journey to accelerating the decarbonisation of the built environment by rapidly decarbonising more than 1m buildings in the coming years.” Commenting on the collaboration, Andrew McKenzie, Commercial Leader – Consultancy UK&I, Schneider Electric said “This collaboration offers a valuable opportunity to support commercial and industrial clients in boosting operational resilience and achieving net zero goals. We will provide a clear roadmap for those facing aging infrastructure, rising energy costs, and the need to modernise, helping them build a more efficient, optimised and safer estate.” Building, Design & Construction Magazine | The Choice of Industry Professionals

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UKTC ideal heating hull

Ideal Heating R&D Team Members Visit UK Technology Centre as Pioneering Facility Nears Completion

Senior team members have visited their new home-to-be as Ideal Heating fits out its industry-leading research and development centre. The £19.2m UK Technology Centre ( UKTC ), located at Ideal’s headquarters site in Hull, will enhance significantly the company’s R&D capabilities, providing a testbed for both current and future products. The UKTC is due to be operational from September and forms part of a wider £60m investment across the Hull site as the market leader pivots towards technologies which will decarbonise UK heating. The R&D workforce at the Hull site has more than doubled over recent years, reflecting Ideal’s significant investment in its product development capabilities. The new centre will bring together more than 100 R&D and product development specialists who are currently located in various facilities across the site. Stephen Patton, Ideal Heating’s R&D Director (Thermodynamics), toured the facilities as they take shape with colleagues, and said: “The UKTC represents a step change in our in-house R&D and testing capabilities. “Bringing world-class equipment and testing facilities to our site in Hull will accelerate and advance the development of our products. The UKTC brings with it significant benefits in time, cost and efficiency of R&D processes. “The UKTC will be, quite simply, the leading facility of its kind in the UK. Work on the centre is progressing well and we look forward to opening the building later this year.” The UKTC will feature six climatic chambers, with temperature and humidity controlled from -20°C to 50°C. It means Ideal can stress-test products in even the most dramatic and extreme of temperatures and environments. Alongside the climatic chambers are specialist test chambers including hemi-anechoic chambers, which test the noise emissions and sound levels from both boilers and heat pumps, and EMC chambers which test products for electromagnetic interference from other “smart” appliances found in the home. Ideal Heating’s R&D team will relocate from their existing facilities to the UKTC in phases. Product testing in the climatic chambers will begin in September, with anechoic and EMC testing due to commence in early 2026. Jason Speedy, Chief Operations Officer at Ideal Heating, said: “The UKTC is a major statement of intent. It reaffirms our commitment to the energy transition and investing in the technologies which will heat our homes for decades to come. “For more than century, the name Ideal has been synonymous with quality and innovation, as we continually work to meet the ever-changing needs of the heating sector. “The UKTC will enable us to continue to push boundaries, set new standards in heating technology and develop the next generation of products.”  Testing within the UKTC is split into two key areas – performance and reliability. The centre provides Ideal Heating’s R&D team with dedicated work and collaboration spaces directly next to where the testing is taking place. Also located within the UKTC is an in-house training room and a 3D printing facility, which will be used to produce prototype components and parts. The UKTC has been designed and built to BREEAM standard – a world-leading sustainability assessment for the built environment. Key sustainability features include LED lighting and controls, air source heat pumps, a mechanical heat recovery system, sub-metering of electrical distribution, and high-performance building fabric to reduce heat loss. Ideal Heating is also installing new solar panels at its Hull site, which will provide renewable electricity for the UKTC. The UKTC development has been principally delivered by Yorkshire-based contractor Henry Boot Construction.  The project is backed by more than £2m of seed capital funding from Humber Freeport, having been identified as a significant project which will help the Humber region decarbonise its industries and transition to a net zero economy. Building, Design & Construction Magazine | The Choice of Industry Professionals

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fire safety solutions siemens

Irish Prisons Benefit from Siemens Fire Safety Upgrade

A fire safety solution from Siemens for the Irish Prison Service (IPS) is providing protection for inmates and staff across eight prisons, significantly reducing the chances of false alarms while saving valuable resources. The IPS, operating under the Department of Justice, is a crucial part of the criminal justice system. It is responsible for the safe and secure custody of individuals who are sentenced to prison, held on remand, or detained for immigration-related matters.  As a trusted partner for more than three decades, Siemens has consistently delivered comprehensive fire safety solutions and lifecycle support to this valued customer. This included the recent completion of a significant upgrade of their life safety systems by implementing advanced detection systems and the deployment of Siemens innovative Building X Fire Manager platform with cloud-enabled capabilities.  New technologies and services have resulted in enhanced operational practices and increased protection for staff, inmates and the Siemens engineering team. In addition, the investment in digital services is improving system uptime and enabling data-driven decision making. Smart fire safety technologies The upgrade has been engineered to address the specific demands of the IPS.   Smart Disturbance Free Testing (DFT) Sinteso detectors are adept at differentiating between genuine fire sources and deceptive phenomena such as steam or dust, ensuring precise detection and significantly reducing the chances of false alarms.  These intelligent devices also perform regular self-diagnostics, verifying their functionality and maintaining peak performance, with automatic reporting of any issues and analysis of test results, either on-site or remotely. For the prison environment, this translates to significant practical benefits, as the need to access restricted, sensitive areas is substantially reduced through remote testing capabilities, while hard-to-reach locations such as high atriums can be managed more efficiently. Data-driven decisions To facilitate immediate investigation of any fire incident, authorised prison personnel can now monitor live the status of any fire event from any location via the new Sinteso Connect app. This enables rapid situation assessment and early decision-making, including determining whether evacuation is necessary and how to best manage a planned, phased evacuation, a particularly important factor given the significant disruption invloved in evacuating a prison. Further efficiencies are being achieved with the introduction of the new automated eLogbook system, which automatically records all fire-related events and interactions. This digital approach eliminates the need for manual logging, providing authorised officers with instant access to comprehensive system records from any device, while ensuring accurate, time-stamped documentation of all system activities. To enable comprehensive monitoring across multiple prison locations, Siemens has implemented Building X with Fire Manager. This solution provides full visibility of the status of all sites on a single dashboard, offering access to both real-time and historical data. Designed to support the IPS by delivering greater operational insights, it enhances maintenance planning, execution, and reporting. Customer gains The IPS is able to take advantage of new corrective and preventive service models, alongside continuous system performance monitoring and checks. Remote fault interrogation allows issues to be diagnosed, resolved, and restored without always requiring an on-site response. In cases where on-site intervention is necessary, engineers arrive fully equipped with detailed system diagnostics and historical data, significantly reducing problem resolution time and improving first-time fix rates. The integration of smart, self-testing detectors combined with remote servicing capabilities has produced significant operational efficiency gains for the IPS, automated diagnostics have reduced manual inspections, remote troubleshooting has eliminated unnecessary site visits and real-time performance monitoring is enabling predictive maintenance. A mandatory Health & Safety protocol means that officers must always escort contractors during service visits, involving considerable resource. A pilot test has revealed the extent of the efficiency gains: a total of 76 escort days have been saved, enabling valuable time to be redirected to core security duties. This new approach not only enhances operational efficiency but also maintains rigorous safety standards while significantly reducing resource demands on security personnel. Governor of Works for the Irish Prison Service, Rónán Dunning, commented, – “The integration of new digital systems and services represents not only our commitment to technological excellence but also our dedication to deliver a sustainable, future-proof safety infrastructure across our organisation.” Joe Walsh, Head of Siemens Smart Infrastructure summarised the project – “Through our strategic partnership with the Irish Prison Service, we have engineered a holistic fire safety solution that not only addresses their multifaceted requirements and supports the complexities of their operational environment, but one that is also delivering measurable outcomes.” For further information on Siemens Smart Infrastructure – Buildings www.siemens.co.uk/cerberusFor further information on Siemens Smart Infrastructure, please seewww.siemens.com/smart-infrastructure Building, Design & Construction Magazine | The Choice of Industry Professionals

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Schneider Electric Launches Impact Buildings Program with First Site in Dubai

Schneider Electric Launches Impact Buildings Program with First Site in Dubai

Schneider Electric, the leader in the digital transformation of energy management and automation, today launched its first Impact Building in Dubai as part of its new Impact Buildings Program.    As the world’s most sustainable company, Schneider Electric’s Impact Buildings Program aims to drive sustainability through its own global commercial real estate using best in class EcoStruxure™ solutions, software and services. These include EcoStruxure Building Operation, EcoStruxure Power Monitoring Expert, EcoStruxure Building Data Platform and Planon Integrated Workplace Management.    The interconnectivity of these solutions will drive sustainability, resilience and efficiency as well as improved occupant experience, demonstrating how the combination of electrification and digitalisation—termed ‘Electricity 4.0’ by Schneider Electric—can transform sites into next-generation buildings.   The NEST, Schneider Electric’s new office in Dubai, UAE, is over 10,000sqm, catering to more than 1,000 employees and is home to Dubai’s first Schneider Electric Global Innovation Hub, an immersive experience area, where customers can have a hands-on demonstration of EcoStruxure™ solutions. It will also host a dedicated Training Centre for customers and partners and will focus on youth empowerment by developing local talent and equipping the next generation with the skills needed to drive the region’s clear energy future.    The NEST expects an energy consumption reduction of 37% compared to the previous local site and provides a targeted saving of 572 metric tons of CO₂ emissions, the equivalent to the annual electrical power consumed by around 77 homes [1].   With buildings accounting for 37% of global carbon emissions, Schneider Electric is setting a benchmark by showcasing to customers and partners the intelligent, sustainable spaces its technology can create. The Impact Buildings Program will roll out across additional new sites well as existing buildings by retrofit over the next 18 months, creating a model for next-generation buildings.    Manish Kumar, Executive Vice President, Digital Energy at Schneider Electric, said: “We are walking the talk and creating the vision of what’s possible by transforming our own sites to show that buildings must evolve to meet tomorrow’s business needs. Now is the time to rethink buildings. We are shaping a future where buildings don’t just stand—they intelligently adapt and seamlessly connect to your business, your people, and your purpose. With EcoStruxure™ and Planon enterprise software, we are redefining building operations.”   Commenting on the building launch in Dubai, Olivier Blum, Chief Executive Officer, Schneider Electric added: “The NEST is more than a building. It is a statement of intent. We are honored to have inaugurated this landmark project in the UAE, which demonstrates how digitalisation and electrification can accelerate national net zero goals while creating world-class environments for people to collaborate, innovate, and grow. This new Dubai hub is the first of Schneider Electric’s Global Impact Buildings program and showcases how smart, connected technologies can revolutionise the built environment, setting new standards for innovative and sustainable commercial spaces while prioritising occupant well-being.” Building, Design & Construction Magazine | The Choice of Industry Professionals

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Intatec unveils heat pump innovations at Installer Show 2025

Intatec unveils heat pump innovations at Installer Show 2025

Intatec, one of the UK’s leading manufacturers of heating and plumbing products, is returning to the Installer Show 2025 – joined on stand 5B60 by group brands ActivTec and Zilmet UK. Taking place at the NEC, Birmingham from 24th –26th of June, this year’s exhibit puts the spotlight firmly on solutions for heat pump systems, in response to increasing demand across the sector. A not-to-miss product on stand is the IntaKlean Heat Pump Filter with 28mm Reducing Set – a compact, high-flow magnetic filter with an unmatched Kv value of over 17,000 l/h. It delivers powerful corrosion protection without restricting performance, making it a standout choice for both new and retrofit installations.  Also featured on stand is the Inta Zero, a next-gen anti-freeze valve that prevents freezing before it starts. With a 3°C trigger, zero-drip outlet, and full R290 compatibility, it offers reliable protection for external pipework.  Additionally, the newly launched K Type Ball Valve will also be available on stand, this new design replaces the traditional handle with a removable key type adjuster, enabling the valve to be operated without breaking the insulation seal. Built to last with anti-tamper and anti-vandal features, it’s pressure rated to PN25 and handles temps from -10°C to 90°C. Available in compression sizes from 15mm to 35mm and WRAS-approved, each valve includes both a red and blue cover cap for hot and cold systems. Darran Bougourd, Managing Director at Intatec, comments: “This year is all about innovation for heat pump systems. We’ve listened to what installers need – products that are smart, safe, and simple to fit. From the K Type Ball Valve to the IntaKlean 35mm Filter, everything on the stand has been designed to make working with heat pumps easier and more efficient.” In addition to these products, the stand will also feature ActivTec’s ActivStopLeak, designed to detect leaks as small as 0.1 litres per hour, setting a new benchmark in leak detection and water conservation. Established favourites will also be on stand, including the HIPER II HIU and ActivFlo – each playing a crucial role in improving reliability and efficiency.  Zilmet UK will also be showcasing its Zil-B range of Insulated Buffer Vessels – created to reduce cycling and stabilise flow in renewable systems. With premium insulation, wall brackets and optional feet that allow 100% drainage during maintenance, these features make installation and servicing significantly easier. The expanded presence of ActivTec and Zilmet UK further reinforces the group’s commitment to whole-system performance. Visitors to stand 5B60 can expect hands-on product demos and expert advice from the Intatec team across all three days of the show.  To find out more about Intatec’s product ranges, visit: https://www.intatec.co.uk/ Building, Design & Construction Magazine | The Choice of Industry Professionals

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Schneider Electric unveils new solutions to increase power security and availability

Schneider Electric unveils new solutions to increase power security and availability

Launches new transfer switch capabilities to keep critical equipment and operations up and running in the event of power outages.  Schneider Electric, the global leader in energy management and automation, is launching a number of offerings designed to maintain power supply in the event of an outage.  The transfer switch solutions increase power security and availability, as well as reducing downtime by ensuring the supply of power to a building by moving to emergency backup sources, such as generators or batteries, if the primary source goes down.   This means organisations can maintain vital services and avoid business disruption and potential financial losses by keeping essential equipment and operations up and running during a power cut.  The new automatic transfer switch solutions include:  Acti9 Incoming Automatic Transfer Switch Kit  ASCO Single Way Bypass Transfer Switch  TransferPacT – 32A-1600A   David Williams, Schneider Electric’s Vice President for Transactional Business said: “We are having many conversations with organisations about the need for increased power security and availability as the demand continues to rise putting pressure on the grid at times. Few organisations can afford to be without a steady power supply and for some, such as healthcare providers, it can be a life-or-death situation.”  “Our new transfer switch kits are there to provide peace of mind so that if the primary power source fails it’s easy and quick to transfer over to emergency sources, keeping vital equipment and operations up and running and limiting the impact.”   Building, Design & Construction Magazine | The Choice of Industry Professionals

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Hamworthy Heating provides Cambridge primary school with new Tyneham heat pump cascade installation

Hamworthy Heating provides Cambridge primary school with new Tyneham heat pump cascade installation

Two Tyneham 290HT 27kW air source heat pumps from Hamworthy Heating – a trusted British manufacturer and supplier of commercial heating and hot water products – have been installed in cascade for underfloor heating in a new extension at a primary school in Cambridge. To accurately meet the heating requirements of the new school extension and ensure an even distribution of heat, the new system from Hamworthy Heating includes two 290HT 27kW Tyneham heat pumps with natural refrigerant, configured in a hydraulic cascade set up.  The heat pumps are connected to a 500L buffer cylinder, which also features an electrical heating element, controlled by a BMS.  The buffer connections, Exogel anti-freeze valves and degassers were also supplied by Hamworthy Heating. This cascade arrangement allows for the heat capacity to be equally distributed according to the specific heating demands of the new school building. Rather than rely on a larger single heat pump that could run inefficiently at partial load, the new cascade set up enables the units, which have inverter controlled compressors, to adjust their capacities as needed which will enable the school to achieve a more accurate match to its actual heating demand and optimise performance. Additionally, as the new system can adjust to keep the heat pumps operating at their most efficient state, cycling of heat pumps and unnecessary energy consumption is avoided. The two new Tyneham 290 HT installation also provides the school with increased protection against breakdowns. Unlike a single heat pump installation, which can result in complete downtime, the new system now supplies the new building with uninterrupted heating.  Furthermore, as the workload is shared across two Tyneham heat pumps, stress and wear on individual components is significantly reduced. Following a previously successful collaboration with Hamworthy Heating on the schools existing heating system, Sotham Engineering were keen to stick with a brand they could trust on the second phase of its project. Ricky Harris, Sotham Engineering Services Ltd comments, “We choose Tyneham heat pumps due to their overall performance and efficiency.  Having collaborated with Hamworthy during the first stage of the project, we found them easy to work with and always available to provide support and assistance”. Building on the success of its popular Tyneham heat pump range, the new 290HT heat pump utilising natural refrigerant offers a co-efficiency of performance (COP) of up to 4.94 for optimum efficiency.  Quiet in operation, with noise levels as low as 64db(A), the latest 290HT heat pump range is available in five outputs from 15kW through to 50kW and can be cascaded to achieve higher outputs and can be combined with alternative Hamworthy Heating products to achieve a low-carbon hybrid heating system. Following a successful installation, the new extension now benefits from a reliable and efficient heat pump system that will help the school to reduce its carbon footprint and lower operational costs. For more information on the Tyneham 290HT commercial heat pump range, please visit www.hamworthy-heating.com/ or call 01202 662 552. Building, Design & Construction Magazine | The Choice of Industry Professionals

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Ideal Heating heat pumps provide sustainable solution for prestigious residential development

Ideal Heating heat pumps provide sustainable solution for prestigious residential development

Ideal Heating has designed a sustainable heating system and is supplying heat pumps for a luxury residential development in the North East. The heating specialist’s Logic Air heat pumps will be used throughout the exclusive Stoney Wood development at Wynyard Village in County Durham, marking a significant vote of confidence in Ideal’s sustainable heating technology from one of the region’s most prominent developers. The development of 76 homes will feature a mix of premium three, four and five-bedroom properties and is being delivered by Cameron Hall Homes. It’s the latest venture from entrepreneur Sir John Hall’s Cameron Hall Group, known for landmark projects including the Metrocentre retail and leisure destination in Gateshead and the revival of Newcastle United Football Club. Notable ex-residents of Wynward Village include football stars Alan Shearer and Kevin Keegan, as well as business tycoon Duncan Bannatyne. House prices on the Stoney Wood development range from £449,995 to £949,995. Jamie Hooton, Head of Sales at Cameron Hall Homes, said: “Future-proofing our homes with reliable and sustainable heating technology was a key focus for us when designing the Stoney Wood development. “We wanted to ensure our properties meet the needs of the modern homeowner while also aligning with long-term environmental goals. Ideal Heating’s Logic Air heat pumps were the best choice, offering both exceptional energy efficiency and the robust support that gives both us and our customers complete peace of mind.” The Stoney Wood development continues Sir John Hall’s long-standing connection with Wynyard Village, which he purchased from the Marquesses of Londonderry in the 1980s. The estate was transformed under his vision, inspired by high-end American developments, to create an exclusive community featuring golf courses and country walks in the beautiful countryside surrounding historic Wynyard Hall. The project represents another significant endorsement of Ideal’s heat pumps, with the company’s products now showcased in one of the region’s most prestigious residential developments. Mark Cordingley, Key Account Executive – North East for Ideal Heating, said: “We’re proud to partner with Cameron Hall Homes on this exceptional development, showcasing how our Logic Air heat pumps meet the needs of housebuilders creating modern, sustainable homes. “At Ideal Heating, we’re committed to supporting installers, their customers, such as new-build developers, and, ultimately, homeowners. “That’s why we offer free, in-person support for first installs from our expert heat pump team and provide a dedicated UK-based heat pump support service with live technical help.” JD Winter Plumbing, which is currently working on almost 50 sites across the North East, is delivering the installation programme. Managing Director James Winter praised the benefits of the Logic Air system: “There are lots of reasons why you would choose a Logic Air heat pump. The range of pre-plumbed cylinders makes installation very easy and the outside unit doesn’t require a massive footprint, which is great because you don’t want to take up a lot of space with your heating system. “We’ve had a really cold winter, but we’ve had no complaints about the heat that they provide, which is even more impressive when you consider how big these houses are.” Building, Design & Construction Magazine | The Choice of Industry Professionals

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Abloy UK and HKC showcase digital security innovation at The Security Event 2025

Abloy UK and HKC showcase digital security innovation at The Security Event 2025

Abloy UK and HKC successfully showcased their market-leading digital access solutions and intelligent intruder alarm systems at The Security Event 2025, held at the NEC Birmingham. The three-day exhibition attracted thousands of security professionals from across the UK, Ireland, and beyond to explore the latest innovations in security and smart building management. With the growing convergence of physical security and digital technologies, the event provided an ideal platform for Abloy and HKC to demonstrate how their integrated systems support safer, smarter, and more sustainable buildings. Visitors to the stand engaged with live product demos, received expert insights, and explored how to adopt digital connected systems with confidence. Pip Courcoux, Technical and Product Director at Abloy UK, commented: “As buildings become smarter and the demand for seamless, secure movement increases, digital access is no longer a luxury – it’s essential. “Buildings are rapidly becoming digital environments, and access control plays a key role in enabling that transformation. From commercial offices to critical infrastructure, the need for flexible and scalable access management is growing rapidly. “We were delighted to connect with customers, consultants, and industry leaders at The Security Event 2025 to share how our solutions – including PROTEC2 CLIQ and PRIMO – can support their journey to smarter, more secure, and more sustainable operations.” Abloy UK’s portfolio on display included its comprehensive range of electromechanical and wireless locking systems, software platforms for access management, and cloud-based solutions that enable secure, real-time control of doors, cabinets, and gates – even in remote or high-risk environments. Damian Lloyd, Marketing Lead at HKC, echoed this, highlighting the rapid evolution of intruder detection systems in the digital age: “Over the past decade, the security landscape has undergone a major transformation – driven in large part by the evolution of intruder alarm connectivity. “Technological advancements have reshaped industry attitudes, prompting a shift in how alarm systems are designed, installed, and maintained. Modern alarm systems are now smarter, more integrated, and significantly more reliable than earlier generations. Innovations in wireless communication, cloud computing, artificial intelligence, and the Internet of Things (IoT) have all contributed to this progress. “These technologies have ushered in a new era, enabling real-time insights, effortless remote access, and a greatly enhanced user experience. The Security Event was the ideal opportunity for us to discuss this topic with visitors face-to-face, demonstrating how our HKC solutions can be tailored for residential, commercial, and vertical specific environments.” HKC’s stand featured its latest range of intruder alarm panels, wireless sensors, app-controlled systems, and cloud management tools – all designed with installers and end-users in mind. The company’s integrated approach aligns with today’s demand for security systems that not only detect but also deter and inform. Both Abloy UK and HKC are part of ASSA ABLOY, the global leader in access solutions, and their participation in The Security Event 2025 demonstrates the group’s commitment to innovation, collaboration, and future-ready technology. For more information on HKC Security, please visit: hkcsecurity.com For further information on Abloy UK, visit https://bit.ly/4hN2iOO, call 01902 364 500, or email info@abloy.co.uk Building, Design & Construction Magazine | The Choice of Industry Professionals

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EDSB and Siemens protect a major new UK warehouse

EDSB and Siemens protect a major new UK warehouse

The benefits of the partnership approach adopted by Siemens has been demonstrated in a project by EDSB to develop a fire detection and air sampling solution for a new warehouse operated by one of the UK’s most prominent retailers. The facility in Warrington saw some 1,000 devices installed to protect the 81,570 m2 logistics warehouse area and its ancillary offices. Given the scale of the warehouse, which features high ceilings extending up to 43 metres at the highest point, the detection system needed to provide comprehensive coverage across the entire space. EDSB’s solution included air sampling with low-level test points and pipe runs exceding 200 metres, ensuring the system could accurately detect fires without interference from environmental conditions. Before stepping foot on-site, EDSB’s in-house design team was tasked with creating for the project a compliant BS:5839 Part 1 system, aligned with the Category L1/P1 standards. Given the building’s complexity – including multiple mezzanine levels, cold storage areas, aerosol and battery storage, automated racking systems and comms rooms – the design required a range of detection technologies tailored to each area’s specific needs and environmental conditions. Working with Siemens, after reviewing the 3D BIM models, specifications and fire strategy information, EDSB proposed a combination of air sampling systems, infrared linear beams, multi-sensor detectors, triple infrared flame detectors and gas suppression systems to ensure comprehensive coverage and compliance. One of the main focuses of the brief was to develop a zero-false-alarm system, given the considerable costs associated with four-hour halts in production that could arise from unnecessary shutdowns. In consultation with Siemens, a solution was designed which saw a hybrid fire detection system capable of identifying environmental factors such as dust, smoke and exhaust fumes that could trigger false alarms. Also central to the fire safety considerations was the high ceiling space which presented a particular challenge for traditional smoke detection: ‘stratification’ was identified as an issue whereby the smoke plume generated by a fire cools as it rises, often resulting in it having insufficient buoyancy to reach the roof and activate detectors. This was overcome by using Siemens ASD (Aspirating Smoke Detection), with the first stage of the installation process undertaken once the roof structure was in place. EDSB installed pipework and air sampling units in strategic positions across the warehouse to cover all areas, including the high ceiling zones. Following installation, the entire system was tested and calibrated to ensure optimal performance. Another challenging factor in the project was the need to undertake phased works which operated in parallel with the warehouse construction. Several planning meetings took place to fully understand the site conditions and construction schedule. These meetings were crucial in ensuring that the installation would proceed smoothly alongside the building’s construction. Both the EDSB and Siemens teams, as well as the construction managers, worked together to align on the scope, timeline and logistics of the project. Additionally, potential challenges such as access points and space constraints were identified and strategies were put in place to prevent delays later in the project. Geoff Wain is a Senior Project Manager at EDSB. He comments – “This project has been a coordinated effort from the design stage through to installation and commissioning, primarily utilising in-house engineers. A dedicated site project engineer handled daily communication with our client to ensure that the phased works were completed on time, delivering the project to the end client. The high standard of workmanship across the site is a testament to all those involved.” Alistair Lyon was EDSB’s Install Leader on the project who said – “I believe what we have achieved is something that should be celebrated. This has been a long, challenging and complex installation and we have delivered an end product that we can all look back on and say we are proud to have been a part of.” The facility has a Desigo CC building management head end which is able to display the information relating to the fire system and allows operators to visualise it. Desigo CC is also used on site to manage the HVAC systems, meaning all the building operation data can be viewed via a single interface. This leads to operational and energy efficiency savings. The on site computerised maintenance management system (CMMS) is also integrated into Desigo CC, with its open architecture allowing this integration to happen. Siemens John Fennah added – “At Siemens we always strive to work closely with our partners and this application is an excellent example of how such an approach can achieve the best solution. By understanding and addressing the specific challenges presented by this warehouse, EDSB were able to match the appropriate technology with the different requirements, arriving at an integrated system which optimises fire safety while effectively managing the HVAC.” In total, the site comprises nine networked Siemens fire panels, 34 Siemens aspirator panels, and more than 30 high-level Siemens beam detectors. The warehouse is equipped with 200 interfaces that control various shutdowns and integrate with third-party systems. Special care was taken to ensure the system provides comprehensive coverage. For further information on Siemens Smart Infrastructure – Buildings www.siemens.co.uk/cerberus For further information on Siemens Smart Infrastructure, please seewww.siemens.com/smart-infrastructure Building, Design & Construction Magazine | The Choice of Industry Professionals

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