NTI’s Matrix is an integrated appliance that combines a gas-fired condensing boiler and furnace, condensing demand water heater, and heat-recovery ventilator into a single unit, and it is pre-configured for air conditioning. According to NTI, the Matrix’s advanced heat exchanger is capable of reducing gas consumption by 30% compared with a conventional system, providing an AFUE of 94 for forced-air and 92.7 for hydronic heating, and an energy...
The Kai Stania private house, near Vienna, is a unique and stunning example of modern domestic architecture using large glazed walls framed with black Trespa Meteon panels. A stunning glass and black clad house has recently been completed near Vienna. The house was designed by well-known designer and architect Kai Stania to live and work in and to act as a marketing tool for his design business. It is situated on a tree-covered hillside with a stunning...
The SunCache integral-collector-storage (ICS) solar water heater uses a roof-mounted, water-filled, unpressurized, polyethylene panel and copper heat exchanger to pre-heat water for domestic use. Developed through research supported by the U.S. Department of Energy, the relatively inexpensive SunCache captures heat in 50 gallons of non-circulating water stored in a rooftop panel. When a hot-water tap is turned on, cold water from the supply line flows...
The Rainwater H2OG is a modular rainwater storage tank designed for use in tight spaces such as under decks, against houses, or even within walls. Two versions are available: a potable water tank made from virgin food-grade polyethylene, and a non-food-grade tank made with 15 percent recycled content. Each module holds 50 gallons of water that can be used for gardening, irrigation, toilets, laundry, or (with the food-grade tank and after proper filtration)...
Hitachi Power Tools introduces a new series of micro-size power tools to the cordless landscape. The launch of the 12Volt Peak series includes a micro Lithium Ion Driver Drill, the DS10DFL, a micro Lithium Ion Impact Driver, the WH10DFL and a combination of both tools in a 2-piece combo kit, the KC10DFL. The main advantage to the 12V Peak series is their convenient micro stature that allows them fit into places where conventional counterparts will...
A global model in sustainability, the Vancouver Convention Centre West in British Columbia celebrates its grand opening this week. Designed by Seattle-based LMN Architects in collaboration with Vancouver-based MCM and DA, the project represents a whole new direction in convention center design. It is on track to achieve LEED Canada Gold certification, and substantially raises the bar for “green” convention centers around the world. Located on...
Manitowoc recently unveiled three new GT series of truck cranes. The truck crane range will initially offer three models, ranging in capacities from 10t to 25 t. The cranes are: the GT-10, with a 10 t capacity; the GT-18, with an 18 t capacity; and the GT-25, with a 25 t capacity. The cranes are the first new models from the Manitowoc factory in Tai’an, China. Manitowoc created a joint venture, known as Manitowoc Dongyue, with Tai’an Dongyue Heavy...
Hitachi Power Tools introduced several new tools and combo kits to the Micro Series lineup; the CR10DL micro reciprocating saw, the WH10DCL micro right angle impact driver, the UB10DL micro flashlight, the KC10DAL 3-Piece Combo Kit (includes DB10DL – micro driver drill, WH10DL micro impact driver, UB10DL micro flashlight) and the KC10DBL 3-piece Combo Kit (includes DB10DL – micro driver drill, the CR10DL micro reciprocating saw, UB10DL...
This spectacular piece of architecture isn’t even built yet, but that didn’t bring down its price any. An innovative eco-friendly home in a Cotswold nature reserve has been sold for a world record £7.2 million for a country house. The eco-friendly Orchid House, built on a lake in a privately-owned Cotswold (U.K.) nature reserve, is predicted to produce more energy than it uses. The house, which was designed by Sarah Featherstone, won’t be finished...
Faced with two challenges in creating a new research and development facility – meeting an almost impossible construction deadline and ensuring minimal environmental impact – the ING Renault F1 Team turned to ABM Bridge Systems to win the race against time. The resulting, Computational Aerodynamics Research Centre at the team’s HQ in Enstone, Oxfordshire, has now been recognised by the Concrete Society as an outstanding example in the Concrete...