Microflex preinsulated pipework is available in the UK through Watts Industries. It is composed of thermal insulation around carrier pipe(s) and covered by a double-skinned closed chamber jacket. These pipes can be used for distributing water for heating, cooling and hot and cold water supply services.

The commissioning of piped services inevitably faces time and budget constraints. Peter Rees considers how these challenges can be addressed.

Peter Rose reminds us of the very real, but avoidable, risks posed by legionella bacteria.

The time taken to power flush central-heating systems can be halved using Adey’s VibraClean radiator agitator.

The ECOflo range of high-efficiency gas-fired condensing water heaters from Andrews comprises seven models with heat outputs from 35 to 79 kW and recovery rates of up to 1400 l/h through 50 K. They have storage capacities of 230 or 380 l.

Using Kingspan Tarec phenolic insulation on cold and chilled-water pipework in Coventry’s new University Hospital have solved the problem of space restrictions and helped the hospital meet stringent targets for carbon-dioxide emissions.

Keraflo’s KP float-valve kits can be used with large water-storage tanks served by pipes in five sizes from 50 to 200 mm in diameters to provide full flexibility in the level of stored water. This feature is said to be particularly important in buildings with seasonal occupancy — such as universities and colleges, football stadia etc.

AquaTech pressurisation units for heating and chilled-water systems provide back-pressure and back-siphonage protection to fluid category 5, as required by the Water Supply (Water Fittings) Regulations of 1999.

As part of the refitting of the Millennium Dome into the O2 venue for music entertainment and sports, Grundfos worked with M E Engineers to develop pumping solutions that used 36 pumps to provide the full range of M&E services, nine pressurisation units and two booster sets.

BSS has added a new product to its range of BOSS White jointing compounds.

Nu-Heat has made it easier for installers to direct underfloor heating tube back to the main manifold with the introduction of a 25 mm polystyrene tray.

Said to offer major advantages over steel for supplying oil to heating appliances is the Universal Petro Pipe range of polyethylene pipes distributed in Britain by Hytek. This lightweight and flexible pipe comes with a 15 year manufacturer’s guarantee.

Grundfos now offers a UK-specific disc of its WinCAPS CD-based electronic product catalogue and selection tool. It allows the user to select from product catalogues, size the most suitable pumps, choose the best replacement for a Grundfos or non-Grundfos pump and choose accessories and/or spare parts.

Simple pumping less water round a heating system at times of reduced demand can save significant amounts of energy. Britta Frank explains how.

A potential saving in installation time of up to 67% is claimed using Tectite Sprint push-fit fittings in plumbing and heating systems by Pegler Yorkshire.

The key to maximising the benefits of prefabricated valve assemblies is to adopt a flexible approach with a high level of inherent configurability — according to Marflow Hydronics.