WindowMaster, the supplier of natural comfort and smoke ventilation solutions, has produced a new white paper for architects on how best to select window actuators to enable precision control of windows and facades in natural ventilation systems.
The company aims to help architects and specifiers make the right choices in setting out strategies for natural ventilation.

The white paper can be downloaded free from www.tiny.cc/NaturalVent

WindowMaster's Tom Lymn said: 'Window actuators and their associated controls can form a critical element of modern building services. They make a significant contribution to the success - or failure - of a building's internal environment and energy performance.'

'However, they are often a second thought and not considered as a fundamental part of the ventilation system, which can cause major headaches for designers, contractors and clients that have to pay to put them right, or live with the negative consequences for years to come.'

To help in the design process WindowMaster has developed a white paper which shows how careful design and precise control for natural ventilation are essential in the delivery of a compliant natural ventilation strategy. It offers information on what kinds of actuators are available, practical information on wiring routes and concealment, window opening and orientation.

In addition, it aims to help architects to compile an effective specification to avoid common complaints associated with natural ventilation.

Mr Lymn said: 'Currently, performance specifications tend to be based on products and not on the building itself, its location or specific client needs. Effective natural ventilation solutions must be aligned to these factors.'

'WindowMaster helps architects take into account such things as multi-speed operation, pressure safety, actuator position feedback, wiring routes, synchronisation and fault indication in order to deliver precise control within the first five centimetres of window opening. This helps to control temperature, carbon dioxide and noise, reduces draughts and improves building security.'