It represents a robust model for achieving extreme energy efficiency and comfort via airtight building envelopes, high-performance windows, and ventilation with heat recovery.. 4.

Since the Grenfell tragedy, public policy has shifted towards a zero-combustibility approach in certain higher risk buildings, making the use of engineered timber more complicated.This has increased insurance costs for mass timber construction.

It is common practice to solve the problem by enclosing timber for increased fire protection.Unfortunately, this generates additional carbon emissions and waste.. Another issue with glulam and CLT is the debonding of layers during a fire.The glue can start evaporating at a relatively low temperature causing engineered timber to fall apart even before it burns.

If the timber only chars, it might remain stable but may not be suitable for compartmentation as smoke can break through at joints.. Our response is to:.- Use engineered timber in lower buildings with a decreased risk of vertical propagation.. - Involve specialist contractors and fire specialists from early stages to ensure the material’s structural integrity in the event of fire and robust co-ordination between disciplines.. - Engage early with statutory bodies, supply chain, and timber contractors.. - Consider the use of sacrificial layers of timber to protect the rest of the structure and potentially result in self extinguishment.. - Use timber fire treatment such as intumescent paint to prevent the spread of fire and reduce the amount of smoke produced, taking account of the impact on recyclability.. - As a last resort, consider full fire bonding if there is a risk of debonding of layers.

This scenario is appropriate in multistorey residential buildings.. Other general concerns when using CLT include:.

- Volatile Organic Compounds (VOC’s).Data centres are expensive.

Being able to compress the time from project inception to occupancy, as well as having reliable procurement and supply chain, and a predictable construction programme, is hugely valuable in being able to defer CapEx and cost of finance.. One of the core principles of DfMA is the standardisation of parts and construction/assembly processes.It enables the ‘industrialisation’ of data centre design and construction.

This allows us to work with clients to standardise procurement, through a prearranged supply chain with stockholding, if necessary, of pre-agreed capital plant and equipment.It enables speed of installation through on-site assembly of prefabricated and pre-assembled parts in a safe and controlled manner.