The Project
When a site in Bristol required a critical upgrade to its server room cooling systems, Taranis Engineering Ltd was chosen to deliver the project. With a strong reputation for designing, installing and maintaining complex mechanical systems, including chillers, ventilation systems and large-scale commercial installations, Taranis was well placed to meet the demands of this high-security project.
The project involved replacing and re-piping the existing hybrid variable refrigerant flow (HVRF) systems to ensure efficient and reliable cooling for a sensitive server infrastructure. To meet the performance and quality requirements, Taranis selected Aquatechnik and CORE – product ranges available exclusively through Smith Brothers. The products were supplied by Smith Brothers’ Bristol branch, ensuring prompt delivery and local support throughout the project.
The Solution
Working closely with mechanical and engineering consultants Andersons Parslow, Taranis Engineering Ltd carried out a detailed evaluation to ensure the selected products would deliver long-term performance, reliability and value. Aquatechnik’s Safety-Plus MLCP system was chosen for its:
- Flexible and versatile design, ideal for complex layouts and confined spaces
- Quick and straightforward installation, reducing labour time and eliminating the need for hot works
- Cost-effective alternative to copper, delivering long-term savings without compromising quality
- Capability for long runs of pre-insulated pipework with minimal fittings, streamlining installation
- Ease of clipping and seamless integration into trays and basket systems
Additionally, Aquatechnik’s Safety-Plus system is manufactured in facilities certified to ISO 9001 and 14001 standards. Suitable for domestic, commercial and industrial applications, the system is WRAS-approved and available in sizes ranging from 16mm to 75mm. It features a unique and straightforward jointing method that uses a flaring tool to expand the pipe bore, creating a secure, leak-free connection even under high temperatures. Compared to traditional multi-layer composite pipe (MLCP) systems, Aquatechnik provides improved water flow, reduced noise levels and greater energy efficiency.
Seamless Supply & On-Site Training
The chosen products were supplied with unmatched convenience via Smith Brothers’ Bristol branch’s next-day delivery and same-day collection service. This ensured Taranis had prompt access to all required components, helping prevent delays and maintain momentum on site.
To further support the project, a Smith Brothers Regional Product Specialist provided comprehensive on-site training on system jointing. This hands-on guidance ensured proper installation, focusing on:
- Best practices
- System safety
- Workmanship quality
- Long-term reliability
Where copper was required, the team opted for Frabo’s M-profile press-fit system. Available in sizes from 15mm to 54mm, with an XL range extending up to 108mm, the system is suitable for a wide variety of applications, including potable water, heating, cooling, gas and industrial systems. Frabo is renowned for its durability and features the patented SECURFRABO safety technology, which enables the detection of unpressed or incorrectly pressed fittings during system testing.
CORE
Taranis also chose to utilise products from Smith Brothers’ CORE range, an own-brand portfolio of HVAC solutions that offers competitively priced, high-quality alternatives to leading industry brands.
Taranis used a variety of CORE products, including:
- Copper Fittings: WRAS-approved and manufactured to EN 1254 standards under ISO 9001 conditions. Options include end feed, solder ring, and compression (including DZR).
- Ball Valves: Delivering performance, control and high efficiency. The valves are WRAS-approved, available in multiple sizes and materials, and you can choose from handle colours for different applications.
- PRVs: Supplied with a built-in pressure gauge, the PRV is WRAS approved and certified to BS EN 1567 for operation with inlet water temperatures up to 80˚C. Complying with BS EN 1254-2 for use with R250 (half-hard) copper tube, connections including compression and screw ends are available.
- Expansion Vessels: The connection thread is uncoated to maintain pressure in HVAC systems, ensuring a hassle-free connection. The fixed diaphragm prevents water from contracting the vessel’s bare steel, and the nitrogen gas filling extends pre-pressure maintenance.
- Dosing pots: This high-quality stainless-steel vessel is fatigue-resistant due to its design. It is supplied with loose components, so connections can be fitted in an orientation best suited to the system. The Dosing Pot fully complies with the latest BSRIA BG50/2021 recommendations regarding avoiding dead legs.
View Smith Brothers’ CORE range online at www.sbsonline.net/core
Conclusion
The successful upgrade of the Bristol site’s server room cooling systems highlights Taranis Engineering Ltd’s capability to deliver technically complex projects to the highest standards of performance, safety and reliability. By partnering with trusted suppliers like Smith Brothers and leveraging innovative products such as Aquatechnik’s Safety-Plus MLCP system and the versatile CORE range, Taranis ensured the installation was not only efficient and future-ready but also fully compliant with the customer’s stringent requirements.
Learn more
www.sbscore.co.uk
www.aquatechnik.co.uk
