In 2015, Ruukki completed construction of the research centre of Häme University of Applied Sciences in Finland, the most advanced construction technologies were applied, enabling achievement of almost zero energy consumption.
For achievement of the best operational characteristics of the building, the project incorporated such solutions as lightweight structure frame, energy-saving sandwich panels, solar panels, solar collector, geothermal system, coil heating and air-conditioning, translucent polycarbonate facades, and the ‘smart home’ technology.
The Ajan Arkkitehdit architectural firm was the project author. Application of highly efficient energy saving technologies in this project allowed overcoming the highest contemporary energy efficiency requirements.
It is important to note that the building was erected in the north of Europe, in Scandinavia, and even in the loсal severe climate the authors managed to create a project with almost zero energy consumption.
The project is based on a lightweight metal frame, its application allowed to construct a building of 1,500 m2 within only 3 weeks.
Application of Ruukki highly energy-efficient mineral wool sandwich panels with EPDM seal, combined with air-tighting of horizontal joints with aluminium band ensured the best energy efficiency for the building (thermal resistance R0 = 0.16 W/m2*K) (q50 = 0.76 m3/h*m2).
20 m2 of Ruukki solar panels were integrated into the building facade, generating electric power even in cloudy or foggy weather. The output of such panels comprises up to 152 W/m2, which is comparable to consumption of 25 standard energy-saving lamps.
On the roof, the solar collector was integrated into the Ruukki Classic folded profile. Apart from gaining extra electric power, this solution allows preserving the beauty and full air-tightness of the roof cover.
The building is equipped with an innovative heating and air-conditioning technology, operating due to the heat pump, combined with a system of overhead radiators.
The ceiling coil heating and air-conditioning system is of maximum comfort for people and allows reducing energy resources by the building by up to 7%.
For extra cost-saving on air-conditioning, the roof is designed of light colours, which ensure minimum heating of the building in summer.
Panoramic windows oriented to the south, are made of matt polycarbonate and have high energy efficiency indicators (thermal resistance R0 = 0/84 W/m2*k). This also creates maximum direct sunlight in premises and comfortable lighting without glittering.
The building is equipped with a system of sensors, controlling such parameters as the degree of premises lighting, amount of generated electrical power, level of snow load onto the roof etc.
Due to Ruukki technical solutions, the building achieved reduction of the operation costs 2.5 times, compared with the average indicators for similar buildings.
The building facade is performed according to the Ruukki technology.
Expression with the “Clouds” composition by Finnish designer Kati Lehtonen applied onto the external facing.
Application of cladding with usage of Cor-ten atmosphere-resistant steel profiles became one more unique facade solution. Such steel possesses a unique property to change its colour in the course of time from silver to saturated brown.
An interesting design step was to apply battens of various colours, which enabled the laconic grey facade play with bright colours.
Inside the building, perforated steel cladding lamellas were used, enhancing acoustic comfort in premises and creating unique interior design.
The estimated energy efficiency investment recovery period of this project comprises 9 years. In this case, the investment recovery period for a similar project in Ukraine can comprise cca 4-5 years.
Ruukki advanced construction solutions allowed making the project not only commercially attractive, but also expressive.
Buildings of such type can be energy-independent from external utilities and be fully self-contained in operation.
All products used in this experimental project, is already available in Ukraine from Rauta and can be successfully used in any project of commercial or residential real estate.
