10 December 2013

FOR IMMEDIATE RELEASE:

Colt Products & Systems produces the world’s largest Penthouse Louvre: ASB North Wharf

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In an effort to reduce ASB’s carbon footprint by 20%, and set new standards for environmental quality and energy performance, ASB has taken full advantage of some of the latest sustainable systems and building technologies. Unlike most commercial buildings all the windows in this building can be manually opened allowing for natural ventilation throughout. This is Australasia’s first fixed-bin displacement mixed mode ventilation system.  This complex ventilation system utilizes thermal mass and the Venturi effect to extract heat from the building and exhaust it through the internal funnel like atria and out via Colt Products & Systems 10x10x10m chimney-like penthouse louvre.  The Colt triple bank weather louvres are used to protect the actuated dampers in behind that open depending on wind direction, effectively ‘dragging’ heat load from the building. This passive ventilation system is all controlled by an internal computer system.  For this substantial penthouse louvre the architects specifically specified Colt’s 3UL/DH louvre.  One of the highest performing louvers on the market, the 3UL triple bank louvre was specified for maximum rain defense, aerodynamics and guaranteed performance tested in accordance with AS/NZS 4740:2000.

Colt Products and Systems were contracted to design, manufacture and install the high performance weather louvre system with a BMS actuated damper structure behind. They were also contracted to design, manufacture and install all of the secondary structural steel for the cube. National Manager for Colt Products and Systems, Andy Oakley says “Our engineers were instrumental with the design and construction methodology of the cube at a very early stage”.

The structure was assembled as four separate sides at ground level and then lifted and bolted to the primary structural steel. To make things slightly tougher the angled roof below the cube was fabricated in very expensive ColorCote ARX standing seam, so extra special care was required during the assembly.  

ASB North wharf has also just been successful in the 2013 Auckland Architecture Awards for its contribution to sustainable architecture. The judges commented that the building was “a bold response to a sustainable imperative.”

Internationally Colt is a front runner in sustainable technologies. Colt develops technologies that harness the natural elements to make the most efficient use of energy, and contribute to a sustainable built environment. 
Colt Products and Systems New Zealand are very proud to have contributed to this innovative and ground breaking building.

For more information please visit:  www.colt.co.nz

ENDS

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