Architect and Builder December 2016 | Page 33

building will use approximately 40-50% less energy than a notional building designed in accordance with SANS 204. SOLUTIONSTATION COMMENT MEP Services The Mechanical, Electrical and Plumbing Services (MEP Services) for the New Engineering building were designed by SolutionStation Consulting Engineers. The design and integration of the various MEP services are critical to analytical teaching and research laboratories. Teamwork played an important role in the design process with seamless co-ordination provided by SolutionStation with the design team and various contractors on site. A rainwater harvesting system was employed to minimise the use of potable water used for toilet flushing as well as Engineering Building garden irrigation. Lighting energy consumption was reduced by implementing a daylight harvesting system in the office spaces, and motion sensing in the public spaces. HVAC The HVAC systems installed ensure that energy consumption is reduced, providing a full heat recovery system, whilst communal spaces are provided with tempered air. An energy model of the building was developed to ensure air conditioning and tempered air systems were efficiently sized. The laboratory gas reticulation network comprises 13 different high and low-pressure gas lines, including toxic and flammable gases. The stainless steel gas reticulation pipework extends from a purpose built gas store, to the work benches in the different laboratories. 31