Viega systems in Germany's most innovative building
The construction of a building accounts for 20 percent of the total costs over its entire operational lifetime — so 80 percent of the costs have to be paid in the course of its usage. One of the key aims of the 'inHaus2' research project in Duisburg, Germany, is to reduce these operating costs: Nine institutes belonging to the “Fraunhofer-Gesellschaft” are conducting research into economical and environmentally friendly construction and maintenance of commercial property throughout its lifespan. Viega is participating in the project by conducting research into the areas of energy efficiency and thermal comfort, as well as into the way expectations are increasing regarding bathroom design and amenities.
Energy efficiency and thermal comfort
For instance, Viega is investigating the potential benefits of applying intelligent control to Fonterra radiant heating and cooling systems. Specifically, this means finding solutions that combine energy efficiency with improving perceived thermal comfort — cosy warmth in winter and pleasant coolness in summer. As well as components such as floor and wall heating elements and cooling ceilings, the study includes research into efficient ways of activating them. Rapid analysis of measurement values supplied by sensors provides a reliable basis for planning future projects and applications under similar conditions.
Data for optimisation
'inHaus2' is networked from top to bottom, controlled by means of bus systems and also constitutes a pilot project for Smart Home solutions. The data and experience that is being gathered make it possible to draw useful conclusions about the interactions between the various items of equipment.
For instance, in the case of the installation for hot drinking water, the specific aim is to save energy. To this end, the piping networks consist of the Sanpress Inox stainless steel system with an internal circulation pipe. The inliner technology reduces thermal losses and helps to maintain the temperatures in the pipe network. Measurement series are carried out to provide evidence for the benefits that are to be expected in a functional building under real-life conditions.
As well as installation engineering, Viega is testing new ideas in bathroom design in 'inHaus2'. On the basis of the Steptec pre-wall system, barrier-free and design-oriented bathroom concepts are being developed or advanced.
