Spheretech’s installation of HVAC and kitchen extract system at West Thames College
Overview
West Thames College, located in west London, required a reliable solution to provide climate control and ventilation for a temporary building serving as a kitchen, canteen, and classroom space during a major refurbishment of their main facility.
The temporary structure was designated for a three-year period, demanding a durable, efficient, and adaptable HVAC solution. Spheretech’s was engaged to design and install an integrated air conditioning, ventilation, and kitchen extract system to meet these needs.
Project objectives
1.Provide adequate heating and cooling within the temporary building to ensure a comfortable environment for staff and students
2. Ensure robust ventilation and air purification for the kitchen and general occupancy areas, maintaining compliance with health and safety regulations
3. Install an effective kitchen extraction system to handle cooking fumes, odours, and heat
4. Minimise disruption to ongoing college activities during installation
5. Design a flexible, energy-efficient system suitable for a three-year operational period
Design & planning
Spheretech’s’ engineering team conducted a comprehensive site assessment, considering the building’s layout, usage patterns, and local environmental factors. After assessing the specific requirements for each zone, a tailored solution was devised:
Design Features
- A split air conditioning system with inverter technology for efficient heating and cooling
- Mechanical ventilation with heat recovery units to optimise energy use
- A dedicated kitchen extract system, including high-capacity extraction fans and ductwork, designed to handle the expected cooking load
System Highlights
- Fresh air supply systems to maintain indoor air quality
- Seamless integration between all systems to ensure stability and ease of maintenance
Implementation
The installation process was structured to minimise college disruption, with work scheduled during off-peak hours where possible. Key steps included:
- Installation of ductwork and mounting of indoor units in designated areas, ensuring accessibility for maintenance
- Connection of the outdoor condenser units to the indoor systems, with appropriate noise reduction measures
- Implementation of the kitchen extract system, including hoods, ducting, and high-capacity exhaust fans positioned to maximise odour and heat removal
- Integration of controls and sensors for temperature regulation, ventilation rates, and safety monitoring
- Rigorous testing and commissioning to verify system performance, airflow rates, and environmental controls
Outcome & benefits
The installed HVAC and extract systems effectively provided a stable and comfortable environment within the temporary building, supporting its use as a kitchen, canteen, and classroom space. The systems demonstrated:
1. Consistent Temperatures
Consistent indoor climate control with minimal energy consumption
2. Healthy Environment
Efficient removal of cooking fumes and odours, maintaining air quality standards.
3. Ease of Use
Flexibility and ease of operation tailored to the varying occupancy and usage demands.
4. Operational Reliability
Robust design and high-quality components ensure dependable service during major events and throughout the year.
Project conclusion
Spheretech’s successfully delivered a comprehensive HVAC and ventilation solution that met the needs of West Thames College’s temporary facility.
The project exemplifies the company’s capability in designing adaptable, high-performance systems tailored to client specifications and operational challenges.
This installation not only supported the college during a critical refurbishment period but also highlighted Spheretech’s’ expertise in delivering durable, efficient, and compliant environmental control solutions.
Marc Knibbs, Managing Director, Spheretech
What our customers say...
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Mowbray Workspace have worked with Spheretech for many years. They are attentive and fit in with our Turnkey projects always as required. Their expertise in providing systems to comply with Building Regulations are second to none and have helped us win several projects.
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