Gilberts delivers the low-down

Leading independent air movement specialist Gilberts is delivering the low-down on how building services can meet the challenge of the changing office landscape.

The drivers of reduced energy costs, creating a healthier working environment and flexible office spaces are combining to see increasing demand for underfloor air distribution (UfAD): up 8% according to market data(1).

Gilberts’ uniquely-designed GFS floor swirl diffuser brings new dimensions for designers and users of the internal space. Its performance characteristics mean GFS can help towards WELL, LEED and BREEAM accreditation.

Gilberts’ GFS circulates air from the floor void with no need for direct ducting. As a result it can be positioned anywhere across the floor plan. And GFS maximises agile offices: all that is needed is repositioning of the diffuser- often just swopping a floor tile- with no need to reconfigure the air circulation paths nor ducting.

Patented design

The patented design enables the choice of horizontal or diagonal (45∞) swirling omni-directional or diffused airflow at floor level. Heating and cooling is quickly and effectively delivered where the occupants are. Excess heat generated by the occupants- people and machines- and airborne pollutants are displaced upwards and out, optimising indoor air quality and comfort.

Gilberts has incorporated a volume control damper into the diffuser which regulates the quantity of airflow as required for occupant comfort and doubles as a dirt trap. The diffuser plate removes easily to facilitate cleaning, adjustment or maintenance.

Whilst predominantly used for air supply, GFS can, like all Gilberts’ swirl diffusers, also function as the ventilation extract, further simplifying the design & specification process.

Dave Harding, Gilberts Sales & Marketing Director, comments: “The efficiency of UfAD systems- delivering heating & cooling at low level is established. Our GFS enhances those proven USPs. It gives much greater flexibility over how the occupied space is used, even as that usage changes. It’s a simple consideration to the specification that can have a huge impact on the appeal for owners and tenants.”

Proven track record

Gilberts has a proven track record in supporting creation of stimulating work environments. Its GFS projects include the F35 flight simulator @ BAE Systems in Wharton and lecture theatres at University of Lancaster.

All Gilberts’ products- standard lines and bespoke solutions- are designed and developed in accordance with BS EN ISO 9001:2015 quality standard in the company’s state of the art 140,000 ft2 facility in Blackpool. The company has its own state-of-the-art test facility, including an air movement laboratory and specialist CFD and BIM software suites, giving customers unrivalled technical support and specification validation.

Gilberts is also committed to protecting the environment by minimising embodied life cycle carbon in its manufacturing processes and has achieved Bronze status in the Supply Chain Sustainability School.