< Previous30 MEP Middle East | June 2021 www.mepmiddleeast.com EXPO EXCLUSIVE “What makes it even better is that you don’t even feel the motion of the air, because the cooled air gradually creeps into the exhibition space at the bottom. The cold air will, therefore, always remain at the bottom, while the air that gets hotter rises to the top and is sucked out from the roof systems.” The Halton displacement ventilation systems – which are key to making the Finland Pavilion an intelligent building – reduces the motion of the air, thus, ensuring that there is no uncomfortable draft of air, there is no disturbing buzzing sound emanating from the entry of cooled air, while also preventing the spread of any potential viruses through the air. “The system is so quiet and effi cient that even during the construction stage, we could barely hear the air conditioning. There were times we even asked ourselves whether the system was switched on because we couldn’t hear the movement of air at all,” Keinälä added. The system also has a number of fi lters that wean out airborne particles, pollutants, contaminants viruses, and any other potentially harmful substances. To accommodate such an intricate system for the lower area of the exhibition the Finland Pavilion also had to overcome certain MEP challenges in the construction stages. “In order to ensure the incoming air enters only from the bottom of the exhibition area, we had to include MEP at the earliest stages of construction. We had to modify our foundation signifi cantly and make space for duct-work under the ground, below the pavilion, even before we poured the concrete,” Keinälä says. “The ducts that travel underground are protected with brick walls, which ensure that the HVAC systems are safe and remain undamaged even in case of rain or water seepage into the ground. This ensures that there are dry ducts under the building that safely and effi ciently bring the air into the building.” The suction units at the top of the building are traditional HVAC units. Some of the ducts on the roof had to be modifi ed to make room for the rigging systems. This turned out to be an excellent investment into higher quality at the Finland Pavilion. The air cooling and ventilation for the 10m-tall exhibition space has been carefully designed in a manner that focuses on not only the comfort of the visitors, but also in improving energy-effi ciency. The HVAC systems ensure that not only are temperatures maintained effi ciently, but also that there is proper circulation of clean and purifi ed air. Furthermore, this saves a lot of energy and results in the optimum use of electricity. Keinälä says: “For instance, in the gorge, such an HVAC system is all the more essential, as the gorge is 15m tall. The lower 3m of these 15m are cooled gently, while the air in the 12m above are slowly taken out through the traditional units at the top. “This is ingenious because the temperature at the roof could go as high as 45 degrees Celsius, depending on the temperature outside the pavilion, but the visitors will not feel this at all because the temperature at their level will be maintained at 24 degrees Celsius or lower.” As a result, less than a third of the cubic metres of the building space need to be cooled, compared to the regular HVAC systems that cool all the occupying space, thus, making the building a lot more energy effi cient than traditionally cooled built environments. “Most of the time, the intelligent parts of a building aren’t visible – they just make you feel good!” Keinälä concludes.32 MEP Middle East | June 2021 www.mepmiddleeast.com VRF REPORT Samsung Gulf Electronics has built a reputable presence in the GCC’s heating, ventilation, and air conditioning (HVAC) sector with its cutting-edge innovations in climate- based initiatives, as well as lasting digital connectivity solutions, fulfi lling the needs of cooling, heating, and smart building solutions, particularly across retail, hotel, offi ce, and home environments. More specifi cally, Samsung’s VRF technology has bridged a crucial gap by addressing energy effi ciency concerns and lowering the carbon footprint of apartment blocks and commercial buildings. Speaking in an exclusive interview with MEP Middle East, the Head of the System AC division at Samsung Gulf Electronics, Ali El Zein, says: “Customer-focused innovation is always our top priority. Samsung is always looking for innovation to reduce the overall carbon footprint and raise effi ciency. This is why our clients have always shown very strong interest in our products.” Keeping performance and unrivalled quality at the fore in order to raise standards and go beyond industry best practices in an increasingly competitive market, Samsung’s VRF technology offers design fl exibility, premium comfort, and superior performance. ENSURING COMFORT, EASE OF USE, AND SAFETY, WHILE SAVING POWER AND REDUCING CARBON EMISSIONS The Head of the System AC Division at Samsung Gulf Electronics, Ali El Zein, speaks to MEP Middle East about how the fi rm’s VRF technology offers premium comfort, design fl exibility, and superior performance, while upholding its ‘green targets’June 2021 | MEP Middle East 33 www.mepmiddleeast.com VRF REPORT Ali El Zein elucidates: “Samsung’s DVM S Variable Refrigerant Flow (VRF) systems offer just the right solution for any application. Samsung’s VRF system air conditioners offer instant temperature control, user-friendly installation and advanced functionality, along with smart power usage. “Our fl agship VRF-based Samsung DVM S is a highly innovative system that adopts the new third-generation Samsung Scroll Compressor (SSC) technology. With its Dual Digital Inverter, DVM S provides world-class energy effi ciency and the most powerful cooling and heating performance available on the market.” While on one hand, top-quality VRF systems have historically had a higher cost compared to conventional HVAC systems, Samsung VRF systems have addressed this by lowering installation costs while offering highly sustainable solutions. “Choosing the right equipment for any building application is not an easy task. Many factors come into account to determine the most energy- and cost-effi cient choice for the overall facility and its occupants,” Ali El Zein says. “With continuous improvement and renovations of our products though out the years, the Samsung DVM S single outdoor unit can now provide a capacity up to 24 HP. This allows for fl exible use of roof and/or fl oor space by minimising installation cost and signifi cantly improving the utilisation of other spaces.” During a year when people have spent more time than ever indoors due to the restrictions and precautionary measures in place following the COVID-19 pandemic, Samsung has leverage VRF technology -- smart solutions for commercial and large residential buildings that demand rapid and fl exible temperature control coupled high effi ciency – to ensure comfort indoors, while maximising cooling and heating performance. For example, the Samsung DVM S offers a wide range of smart technologies that combine to deliver world-class effi ciency, surpassing governmental regulations, while ensuring optimal comfort. Ali El Zein explains: “Samsung’s DVM S system air conditioners offer precise temperature control, i.e. 0.5 degrees Celsius, user-friendly installation, and advanced functionality, along with smart power usage. “This is a highly innovative system that adopts the new third generation compressor with 0.01 Hz, providing powerful cooling even at 54 degrees Celsius.” The development of such technology has become crucial in the Middle East, given that the region experiences fl uctuations in temperatures ranging from 41 degrees Celsius in peak summers to 2 degrees Celsius in winter. Commenting on how Samsung’s systems cater to such a wide operating range, Ali El Zein says: “The Samsung DVM S Desert air conditioning system is specially designed to tackle even the extreme temperatures typical of arid desert environments. “The DVM S Desert features the innovative Scroll Compressor (SSC), as well as Dual Digital Inverter technology, so it delivers superior energy effi ciency along with the industry-best cooling performance. Perfect for large residential and commercial buildings, this air conditioning system Ali El Zein Head of the System AC Division, Samsung Gulf Electronics34 MEP Middle East | June 2021 www.mepmiddleeast.com VRF REPORT provides continuous comfort in a variety of environments ranging from -25 degree Celsius to +54 degree Celsius.” Given the increasing focus on sustainability and green buildings, specifi cally in the UAE, Saudi Arabia, and across the Middle East region, Samsung Gulf Electronics has also pivoted to showcasing its “green” solutions. Setting the bar high, the Samsung DVM S system goes above and beyond the requirements for green buildings in terms of energy savings, refrigerant control, balancing, and commissioning. Furthermore, the Samsung VRF-based systems prevent over-crowding of rooftops, which indirectly furthers energy-effi ciency of the built environment, as this space can otherwise be used for other sustainable uses such as solar panel installations. “With continuous improvement and renovations in our products throughout the years, the Samsung DVM S single outdoor unit can provide a capacity up to 24 HP, with four single modules than can be combined to provide a capacity of 96 HP. This allows for fl exible use of roof and/or fl oor space by signifi cantly improving the utility of other spaces,” Ali El Zein confi rms. “Secondly, it is not necessary to install the units on the rooftop. With its piping fl exibility length of up to 220m coupled with a vertical limit of up to 110m, it can be installed in ground or even a bit away from the occupied space.” This simplifi ed, yet powerful, design of the DVM S Desert outdoor unit has also made the installation process much easier. The long piping and balanced refrigerant distribution means that the system can be placed in many more locations. With heavy anti-corrosion treatment and highly durable scroll compressor technology, along with four stages of oil control, the Samsung DVM S Desert is designed to deliver a long-lasting and consistently effective performance in a wide range of locations, even under increasingly challenging operating conditions. “The two core control cabling and clear guidelines of installation make it a perfect choice for installers,” Ali El Zein reiterates pointing to the ease of installation. The industry has also seen a high demand for the use of smart devices to remotely connect and control air conditioners. It is now possible to control the temperature anywhere, and anytime. “Samsung devices can be managed remotely using the SmartThings App. With just a touch, you can turn any system on and off, change the temperature, create weekly schedules and monitor the power consumption,” he explains. In addition, Samsung acknowledges the importance of proper indoor air quality, the lack of which can potentially lead to health-related symptoms, such as allergies, dizziness and the inability to concentrate. “Our goal has constantly been to reduce contaminants from the air stream and improving indoor air quality. Samsung offers a wide range of air purifi cation systems that work to provide cool and clear air at all times,” Ali El Zein concludes.P.O. Box: 125786, M-03, Al Tawhidi Bldg, Bank Street, Dubai, U.A.E Tel: +971-4-3860601 | Fax: +971-4-3860602 Email: info@consistentconsultants.com Consistent Engineering Consultants has enhanced its portfolio from MEP Consultants to Sustainability Consultant. Apart from the new projects, Consistent is also supporting the existing Clients to improve the and performance of the existing systems. Aligning its vision with Supreme Council of Energy of UAE, it has also enhanced its portfolio to Solar PV systems and has completed projects worth 5 MW till date. To support the sustainable development for existing and on-going projects, Consistent is focusing on SDG 6, 7, 8, 9 and 12. Consistent has successfully completed projects in UAE, Bahrain, Oman, KSA, Kuwait, India, Nigeria, Seychelles, Morocco, Djibouti. Verticals: • MEP Consultancy • Sustainable Building Solutions • Energy Auditing • Energy Modelling • Project Management • Renewable Energy Services Sectors: • Infrastructure • Hospitality • Education • Health Care • Residential • Industrial • Retail In-house Expertise: • Energy Modelling • LEED GA, LEED AP • WELL AP • ESTIDAMA PQP • CEM • CEA • CMVP • CDCP • BEAP Registrations/ Membership: • RSB Registered ESCO company (Etihad ESCO) • Corporate Member of USGBC • Corporate Member of EGBC CONSISTENT HAS BEEN AWARDED WITH ISO 9001:2015 (Quality Management System) ISO 14001:2015 (Environmental Management System) ISO 45001:2018 (Occupational Health & Safety Management System) ISO 50001:2018 (Energy management System)36 MEP Middle East | June 2021 www.mepmiddleeast.com GREEN CONSTRUCTION Sustainability- and ecology- driven Dubai-based master developer, Green Yard Properties Development – which also has a strong presence in the UK and Egypt – has noted steady progress on its $40.8mn (AED150mn) Joya Blanca residential project, which launched in January 2021. The project offers 313 luxurious residential units, including 153 studios, 151 one-bedroom apartments, and nine two- bedroom apartments, each of which touts modern colours and high-quality fi nishing. Interested investors and buyers can also benefi t from fl exible payment plans of up to 5 years with a down payment of 10%. The Joya Blanca project – which has been registered and licensed by the Real Estate Regulatory Agency (RERA) in 2020 – conforms to the authority’s regulation of depositing 50% of the project’s cost upfront, thus, lowering the risk for investors, guaranteeing completion of the project, and ensuring the developer’s credibility. Commenting on the process for selecting the main construction stakeholders on the sustainable and eco-friendly project, the managing director of Green Yard Properties Development, Eng Mahmoud Awad, said: “Green Yard Properties Development held a tendering process and issued a tender package to various contractors that included drawings, BOQ, specs, and other details in order to obtain the best offer for the requested construction needs. “The appointed consultant professionally administered this tender process and submitted weekly reports to the developer, Green Yard. All offers received were opened, discussed, and signed in the presence of the developer and consultant, who compiled and submitted a full analysis and report to the developer. Awad added: “Further negotiations have been held with the contractors for re-pricing and examining their previously handed projects. Revised offers were received from 15 different participants, and a fi nal meeting was held with four fi nal contractors, chosen according to their reputation, experience, price, and quality. Green Yard Properties Development fi nally resolved to one main contractor with whom an agreement was signed for the construction works of the Joya Blanca residential project.” Federal Consultants, a renowned agency with more than 30 years of experience in the MENA region, was appointed as the main MEP consultant and architect for the Joya Blanca project due to their expert energy management solutions; attention to technical details and safety measures; and their modern vision in design and urban building. The consultant’s main duties were to assess the overall project, provide expert consultation, analyse potential contractors, design and supervise construction works, and plan the full engineering blueprints. Green Yard has not only termed Joya Blanca as a ‘sustainable’ residential project, but has also gone the extra mile to achieve GREEN YARD PRIORITISES SUSTAINABILITY, QUALITY ON ITS JOYA BLANCA PROJECT The managing director of Green Yard, Eng Mahmoud Awad, speaks about the tendering process, MEP stakeholders, construction progress, and the developer’s focus on energy effi ciencyJune 2021 | MEP Middle East 37 www.mepmiddleeast.com GREEN CONSTRUCTION a green community that preserves natural resources and ensures the health and well- being of its residents. Awad explains: “On the interior, all residential units follow the international standards for energy and environment effi ciency, and are equipped with low- fl ow rate water fi xtures to reduce water consumption. “LED lights reduce power consumption and the CO2 footprint, while light sensors automate electric use on-demand. We have also used low-emitting materials for paint and fl oor coatings, as well as autoclaved aerated concrete blocks that are light weight and benefi t from high thermal conductivity.” In addition, the HVAC systems on the project have been designed in line with the standards for energy savings, while building materials are partially or fully sourced from recycled materials. On the exterior, green concrete has been utilised across the project, as per the requirements of Dubai Municipality. “Moreover, the use of low-impact permeable materials and refl ective paint will massively reduce UV absorption,” Awad adds. “The landscape design was given special consideration and green areas were included to provide shade, boost a healthy environment, and create a bonding feel with nature.” The Joya Blanca residential project has also set high quality requirements, and as such, Green Yard has chosen only specifi c local and international suppliers that were able to provide materials conforming to the set standards. Locally, RAK Ceramics has supplied the ceramics; Jotun has supplied the paint; and KLUDI has supplied the fi xtures. Internationally, Ciesse has provided the kitchens and wardrobes; Carrier AC has supplied the cooling systems; Legrand has provided the wiring and accessories; IMAB has supplied the doors; Ariston has supplied the water heaters; Al Riyad has supplied the cables; Hepworth have supplied the pipes; and Kone has provided the lifts for the Joya Blanca project. The project has decided to adopt traditional air-condition systems – DX units – for the HVAC due to its high effi ciency and low power consumption. “These systems are expected to considerably reduce the carbon footprint and power consumption on the project, which in turn will reduce the electricity bills for the end-users and help preserve the environment,” Awad said. “Our project is equipped with plenty of innovative technologies, most notably a Liquefi ed Petroleum Gas (LPG) with prepaid online metering system that charges residents according to consumption, and touch-screen AC thermostat to easily control and regulate room temperatures.” The construction process of the project is divided into six main phases, with full completion and handover scheduled for Q4 2022. Phase 1 of the construction included the pouring of concrete, including rafts, verticals, and slabs, as well as the fi rst MEP works. Phase 2 covers block instalment, while Phase 3 covers plaster and tiles setup and second MEP works. Phase 4 covers fi nal fi nishes such as paint, false ceiling, joinery, and fi nal MEP fi xes. Following these four primary phases, the next phases will include authority inspections; handing over of documents by the contractor and the completion of snagging reports; as well as the issuing of the building take-over (TOC) project certifi cate. “Our main challenge was to provide investors with high-end residential units according to worldwide standards, while maintaining competitive pricing and preserving the environment through the introduction of sustainable features,” Awad concludes. “From a design perspective, we had to provide a modern approach for the whole project, build fl ats with reasonable living space, and include as many facilities as required for an urban lifestyle. In terms of the construction, we had to ensure that suppliers delivered on time, works were conducted at a fast pace, and constantly ensure that work is implemented ahead of the schedule set for delivery.”38 MEP Middle East | June 2021 www.mepmiddleeast.com HEALTH & SAFETY It is the collective responsibility of all those who operate in the Building Services Industry to place health, safety, and sustainability at the heart of every project. Whether it’s design, specifi cation, installation, or maintenance, we can adopt a more holistic approach by selecting solutions that not only enhance our own projects, but also support sustainable development within our cities. Due to COVID-19, the importance of health and safety has been amplifi ed. The global pandemic placed health, wellbeing and sustainability at the forefront of people’s minds, encouraging the integration of ‘healthier’ solutions across diverse industries. Let’s not forget that the way we use our buildings has also changed. For example, the rise of remote working trends has cleared out our offi ces and turned our kitchen tables into makeshift workspaces. COVID-19 has had a deep impact on human behaviour, causing changes that are predicted to outlast the pandemic. This will inevitably transform the way we design and build in the construction industry. Going forward, it’s important to ensure we are creating ‘smart’ buildings for the future, that have the ability to evolve with our needs. We can start ‘futureproofi ng’ our buildings by ensuring they are integrated with stronger, safer and more sustainable systems. For HVAC and piping systems, intelligent product selection and enhanced installation can help improve health and safety. Let’s start by looking at material selection. Metallic pipework is the future of the regional construction industry. Metallic pipes, namely Copper or Stainless Steel, can deliver increased strength, hygiene and sustainability. Currently, metallic pipework is best practice, making it the preferred choice in many parts of the world such as the UK, USA and Europe. The use of metallic pipework is on the rise in the region, yet other materials still remain more popular. Other materials are often selected over metals because they are cheaper, however, this does not necessarily mean they are more cost-effective. The effects of COVID-19 have had a signifi cant impact on the building services industry, increasing margin pressures and consequently, cost-savings efforts. A common approach to construction in the region is selecting products based on competitive pricing. SAFER ALTERNATIVES FOR THE BUILDING SERVICES INDUSTRY The Specifi cation Sales Manager at Conex Bänninger Middle East, Chris Meir, talks about how adopting cleaner HVAC and piping solutions can deliver benefi ts that better support human health, public safety, and the planetJune 2021 | MEP Middle East 39 www.mepmiddleeast.com HEALTH & SAFETY However, lower price does not necessarily lead to lower installation costs. It can also lead to additional challenges and costs down the line. To truly construct more resilient spaces, we must adopt a long-term approach and select solutions based on value, rather than price. In my experience with Conex Bänninger Middle East, metallic pipework can deliver value in many ways. Copper is a 100% recyclable material. While other materials may degrade over time, copper maintains its core properties to deliver increased durability. With a growing green conscience in the region, copper solutions can help meet regional and global sustainability goals. In the context of COVID-19, metallic pipework can enhance hygiene. Particularly for mission critical environments such as hospitals, copper is anti-microbial and less reactive to chemicals used in dosing. When used in network installations, it can prevent the growth of harmful bacteria such a Legionella and help keep our water systems safer and cleaner. A key characteristic of metallic pipework is that it can be installed using press fi ttings instead of brazing. Press fi ttings are fl ame- free and do not require a heat source, instead they use a mechanical press tool. The switch to a fl ame-free system can deliver signifi cant health, environmental and economic benefi ts for building projects. Press fi ttings do not use a fl ame during the installation process thus reducing the risk of fi res on site and any associated damages to property or human health. Press fi ttings also help achieve higher joint integrity, resulting in stronger and safer systems that are built to last. There are obvious health risks associated with the use of fi re such as burning and smoke inhalation. Furthermore, brazing can also produce carbon deposits in pipes, which can be transported into HVACR systems and present risks to human health and indoor air quality. Flame-free systems mitigate these risks and also allow installers to work more safely in tight spaces, such as ceiling voids. In cases where a building is already occupied, public access can still be maintained, which is benefi cial, for example, on commercial premises, where offi ce employees can continue to work without disruption and with only minimal restrictions. With the introduction of new initiatives for sustainable development in the region, such as Dubai Master Plan 2040, the ‘greening’ of the building services industry is inevitable. Eventually, green legislation may become a requirement in the industry, and those who are prepared for this shift will be well- positioned to support more circular and sustainable cities. Flame-free installation presents a more sustainable option than brazing. In cities, the construction industry alone accounts for 38% of C02 emissions. By eliminating the need for fi re or gas, fl ame- free installation produces no fumes on site, potentially lowering the carbon footprint of projects. The truth is high-performing HVACR and water distribution systems often go unnoticed. It is only when a problem occurs in the system, that we become aware of its deep impact on our buildings. Producing leak-free systems is a crucial element to maintaining occupant comfort in buildings. Leaks can emit toxic gases, odours or hot water, all which present direct risks to human health and general wellbeing. In the region, pipework is often installed above the ceiling of each unit. This means leaks come from above, making them particularly hazardous. Systems that use press fi ttings can help reduce the risk of leaks by offering higher joint integrity. Each new press joint is the same as the previous, ensuring repeatability and maintained quality. Furthermore, stronger jointing produces more durable systems, which require less maintenance. High-quality press fi ttings produce a secure, permanent connection. Following initial preparation, it takes just fi ve seconds to complete the joint. Increased speed and effi ciency enable project managers to plan more effectively so they can enhance productivity and reduce labour costs for their project. Availability of labour in the region is not an issue, as there is a large pool of workers to draw from. However, traditional brazing requires specialist skills that are more diffi cult to source, potentially impacting a project’s delivery. The skillset required for the more modern press technology can be quickly and easily learned. It requires a much shorter period of training and ensures the installer or ACR engineer has all the skills they need to begin using the system from day one. With new health and safety guidelines that adhere to social distancing, less labour on site can be particularly benefi cial in current circumstances. What is particularly interesting about metallic press fi ttings is that they can actually help to increase the amount of useable space in a building. For one particular project, the client sought to increase the area of useable space in their building units. They planned to do so by reducing the size of the services riser, and in turn the pipework. However, the smaller the pipes, the less water pressure they can endure. For the high-rise buildings in this project, high water pressure was necessary to ensure the safe delivery of hot and cold water supply throughout the whole building. This is a scenario where press fi ttings could provide a solution. Metallic pipes can withstand higher levels of water pressure, and at higher temperatures, than other materials used in the region. Combined with their ability to produce stronger joints, they present the perfect solution to ensure optimal water transportation in high-rise buildings. Adopting practices that deliver long- term value helps us to use resources more effi ciently, reduce costs and enhance public health. The critical role of our buildings systems cannot be overlooked. They are, in fact, vital, to life inside a building. If you wouldn’t compromise on sprinkler systems or emergency lighting in your building, why would you compromise on HVACR and piping systems? They too are engineered to protect people, your project and our planet. To truly build for our future needs, we must embrace industry-wide change. Chris Meir Specifi cation Sales Manager, Conex Bänninger Middle EastNext >