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as noted in the introduction but worth repeating , it is important to understand that the term ‘ smart building ’ actually applies to a number of different criteria – it isn ’ t just about automation !
I would therefore argue that it ’ s important to apply the principles of intelligent construction to the cabling methodology applied to the building .
One key advantage of a smart approach to cabling is the ability to reduce the overall costs of construction for the end client . Use of a structured wiring system with ‘ plug and play ’ connectivity , supplied complete to site for easy connection , has been shown to generate a significant reduction in installation time .
Experience across many such projects has confirmed that savings of 70 per cent in installation time are typical when structured wiring systems are used . When this data is analysed intelligently , by considering the slightly higher capital costs of structured wiring compared to traditional wiring , there is still typically an average 30 per cent saving on final installed cost . This clearly sits well with the general desire to create smarter buildings at a lower cost , without compromising on quality .
The fact that it delivers significant savings for electrical contractors , helping to sharpen their competitive edge , is also very welcome . Plus , of course , the fact that the end client ends up with a better solution is a good way to encourage repeat business .
These benefits were clearly illustrated during a refurbishment project at 30 Broadwick Street in Soho , London , where our Metalynx2 modular wiring system was the preferred choice for all power and lighting distribution . As Robert Biddle , project manager at BAM Construction , comments , ‘ We required a system that could be delivered to meet our tight deadlines and Wieland ’ s Metalynx2 system fitted our brief perfectly . Having a system arrive on site pre-tested and pre-wired allowed us to maximise the productivity on site .’
Similarly , use of a structured wiring system in a major refurbishment at One Puddle Dock helped M & E contractor Gratte Brothers meet the project ’ s extremely tight deadlines . In support of this , the Metalynx2 system was boxed per circuit , per distribution board . This enabled electricians to select the required boxes , knowing they contained all the cables and associated parts required for each part of the job .
Additional time savings can be achieved by making use of other innovative developments , such as a flat cable connection system that combines a busbar and cable into one product . These use a safe tap-off adaptor with a piercing contact that eliminates cutting and stripping of cable , thereby reducing installation time considerably .
Whilst 70 per cent is an average saving across all types of project , there are certain project types where the benefits can be even greater . Obvious examples include high bay lighting in ‘ shed ’ type buildings with high roof spaces where any work on the lighting will require specialist access equipment . In such cases , as well as reducing installation time and the risk assessment paperwork associated with working at height , additional savings are achieved by minimising disruption of the operations at ground level .
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All of which contributes to the aspirations of the construction industry and its customers to reduce the overall costs of construction .
There are also clear benefits to integrating different types of cabling when possible to maximise the efficiency benefits . An example of this would be the use of structured wiring to not only connect the supply of light fittings , fan coil units , small power and cleaner sockets ; but also integrate it with a DALI based programmable control system .
Also , we can expect to see growing use of automation within intelligent commercial and industrial buildings , as we are already seeing in the domestic sector . Indeed , in order to remain marketable , modern commercial buildings must be equipped with intelligent building automation . The demands placed on such systems are high , so the installation architecture and its functionality must enable quick and easy modification in order to keep pace with rapidly changing usage requirements . Here , KNX or wireless bus topologies can be built into the system efficiently and at low cost , again using plug and play technology to deliver the flexibility that the end client requires .
Facilitating change
Whilst there are clear benefits that can be achieved during the initial installation of the services , there are further , ongoing benefits that structured wiring can bring to a building through its life .
For instance , it is very unlikely that any commercial industrial building will remain unchanged through its life . Typically there will be changes in building layout and usage every few years and the services will often need to be reconfigured to accommodate these changes .
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One key advantage of a smart approach to cabling is the ability to reduce the overall costs of construction for the end client . |
With traditional wiring , any such reconfiguration would be time consuming , expensive and disruptive to the activities in the building . In contrast , structured wiring brings an inherent flexibility that makes it very easy to reconfigure lighting or other small power to accommodate changes in building usage or layout .
This means the building operator can quickly adapt services to accommodate changes to the building and the way it is used , so that the services remain aligned to the requirements of the building ’ s occupants . This ability for ‘ continuous commissioning ’ is increasingly being demanded by more savvy building owners and operators .
Moreover , the components of a structured wiring system can be reused , whereas with conventional wiring there is considerable waste during a rewiring project . Consequently , structured wiring helps to reduce waste , meet recycling targets and supports the sustainability objectives of designing intelligent buildings .
Keeping pace with change
While structured wiring has an important role to play in providing a smarter approach than traditional cabling systems it is also important to be aware of any changing requirements that result from the introduction of new technologies . A case in point is LED lighting , which is now the lighting technology of choice for the majority of new lighting installations and lighting upgrades . As well as the energy saving and longer life benefits of LED lighting , the smaller light sources support the use of more discreet lighting systems with compact luminaires .
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Wieland ’ s Metalynx2 modular wiring system was the preferred choice for all power and lighting distribution in the refurbishment of 30 Broadwick Street in Soho . |
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