This came from TRADA this morning, ref the ACD scheme...

March 9, 2011

TRADA Technology offers thermal bridge modelling

TRADA Technology Ltd is going to work in partnership with the new BBA/Robust Details joint venture company Constructive Details (CD) to provide thermal bridge modelling of bespoke details for designers, specifiers and manufacturers. CD has been set up specifically to manage and audit an ‘Accredited Construction Details' (ACD) scheme, as set out in the new October 2010 Approved Document L (Part L) Conservation of Fuel & Power of the Building Regulations (England & Wales).

As TRADA Technology Technical Consultant Lewis Taylor explained, although the Department for Communities and Local Government (DCLG) has yet to announce the exact structure of ACD and Accredited Thermal Modeller (ATM) schemes, Constructive Details and others are working in anticipation of a formal invitation to operate such a scheme.

He added, ‘TRADA Technology has already developed standard thermal details which support typical timber frame designs. However, if designers are to achieve the best possible U-Values and Ψ-Values for input into SAP, and to be able to claim the best possible thermal performance for the building, each bespoke new design or construction method will require bespoke modelling.' TRADA Technology will carry out the modelling and help gain approval from Constructive Details, to ensure details are accepted as an accredited thermal detail, once schemes are established.

Details which are not accredited will carry a 25% or 0.02 W/mK penalty on the quoted Ψ-Value, which will have a knock-on effect on overall CO2 emissions in SAP calculations. Mr Taylor commented, ‘Using a Constructive Detail would avoid the risk of building designs having to compensate elsewhere to achieve the target emission rate calculated in SAP.'

TRADA Technology will also offer thermal bridge modelling training in May and September 2011 at its High Wycombe headquarters, ranging from one-day courses for those with some experience of thermal modelling, to four-day courses for absolute beginners. Successful candidates will then be able to apply to join the eventual Constructive Details' ATM scheme. Dates will be finalised shortly. To register your interest for these events contact Lewis Taylor email ltaylor@trada.co.uk.