Sport meets science at Leeds Metropolitan University

Leeds Metropolitan University Bio-Mechanics Laboratory is among the most advanced sports research facilities of its kind. Within the specially-equipped sports hall, the performance of current and future athletes is filmed and assessed, injuries are analysed, movement and co-ordination are scrutinised and the data captured for studies into fitness, performance improvement, motor control and sports psychology.

Among the laboratory’s more famous subjects are the Leeds Rhinos rugby and Yorkshire County Cricket teams.

It is important to the research that comfort conditions within the laboratory are maintained at optimum levels – both for the active athletes and the sedentary researchers. An AmbiRad radiant tube heating system provides warmth to the level required by both types of building user.

The 2,400m³ sports hall, which is used conventionally for tennis, badminton and volleyball when research is not taking place, is kept at a comfortable 18°C during periods of occupation. A total of four AmbiRad AR35 single linear radiant tube heaters are suspended in the roof space, providing even heat coverage throughout the large space building.

Radiant tube heating works like the sun, warming only people and objects in its path. No energy is wasted heating the volume of air in the building, making it ideal for applications such as large sports halls. Additionally, the physical properties of radiant heat mean it can be set to a lower constant temperature than other forms of heating to achieve the same level of comfort. Less fuel is used as a result and, over time, energy cost savings can be significant.

The AmbiRad system was specified by engineering consultants Troup Bywater and Anders of Leeds, and installed by Morfits of Leeds.

Web: www.ambirad.co.uk