Although the architecture itself provides various functions in regard to the natural systems within the building, energy efficient mechanical systems were given special consideration.
Heating is provided by gas-fired, low Nitrogen Oxide condensing boilers. In addition, the way the building is designed allows for heat recovery between the interior rooms and the building’s façade. Plate heat exchangers are also utilized in that they use metal plates to transfer heat between two fluids. Through this method, temperature change occurs much faster and more efficiently.
Cooling is provided by water cooled refrigeration machines that use zero-ozone depleting refrigerant. These are paired with evaporative cooling water towers with plume elimination and chillers. The plume is essentially a discharge apparatus used for dispersing exhaust gases and eliminating the steam plume. Chillers help reduce the heat of liquids that are used to cool machinery.
Lighting is controlled by a Functional Extra Low Voltage (FELV) switch. However, because of the buildings layout, natural light is the predominant lighting source.
Conclusion
Developing a system that serves several different functions is the most efficient way I’ve seen in reducing energy consumption within a given space. The six shafts provide both lighting and ventilation which significantly reduces the need for mechanical systems. The glass of the Gherkin not only allows light, but affects the amount of heat that is allowed in the building. A building that uses similar techniques of the Gherkin is the Burj Al Arab. The façade features a similar technique of controlling heating and cooling. The Sail-shaped screen that forms the façade of the Burj Al Arab allows soft light to enter the atrium space in the building’s interior. It also controls the temperature of the interior spaces by cold air nozzles that blast cold air inside the sail. This forms a pocket that creates a buffer zone. This helps maintain the interior temperatures. This can be compared to the double-glazed glass panes that help control the amount of solar radiation. Not only do both serve a function of light, but of ventilation as well. In the future, during our quest to develop carbon-neutral architecture, systems that possess a dual role like the shafts of the Gherkin will be found in all types of architecture.