Birmingham City University

CHALLENGE

Targeted with achieving a minimum BREEAM rating of Excellent and with only a short window of time to complete the project, Associated Architects, who designed the building, needed insulation products that would meet strict thermal and environmental requirements – as well as a manufacturer that could offer quick turn around times and a high level of technical support.

SOLUTION

With the help of Knauf Insulation specification manager, Marc Lawson, a through wall solution using 5,000m² of Knauf Insulation’s 100mm Earthwool RainScreen Slab – a rock mineral wool slab containing a water repellent additive, specifically designed for rainscreen cladding systems was used. It is quick and easy to install and is simple to cut and fit around brackets. The slabs knit together with no need to tape the joints – ensuring maximum acoustic and thermal performance, with no air gaps. Knauf Insulation’s Earthwool RainScreen Slab is also non-combustible and has the highest Euroclass A1 reaction to fire rating, as well as excellent sound absorption performance.

To further enhance the thermal properties of the element, 10,500m² of Knauf Insulation’s Earthwool Flexible Slab 100mm, was installed in two layers within the SFS system. Designed to friction fit between metal studs, rafters and joists, Earthwool Flexible Slab is a multi-purpose rock mineral wool insulation slab, which provides excellent thermal and acoustic performance.

Chris Kinman, Senior Design Manager at Willmott Dixon commented; “Knauf Insulation’s products are easy to handle and cut which makes them very easy to use on site. The first phase of the project has gone well and the architect has adopted a similar approach to Phase 2 - which is testament to the excellent performance so far. Overall, we have been very impressed by the help and support we have received from Knauf Insulation on the project and we have since recommended them to other colleagues.

Earthwool RainScreen Slab and Earthwool Flexible Slab rock mineral wool products are made with ECOSE® Technology, a formaldehyde-free binder derived from rapidly renewable materials, instead of traditional petro-based chemicals used in other insulation. Additionally, ECOSE Technology is up to 70% less energy intensive than traditional binders.