Kalwall translucent cladding, exclusively available in
the UK and Ireland from Structura UK Ltd, has been used for a clever
retractable roof system at Club One in Maryland, USA.
Kalwall and its subsidiary, Structures Unlimited,
worked with SEI Architects to engineer at 40 x 25 metre enclosure for Club
One’s aquatic centre comprising six-lane swimming pool, warm water
leisure/therapy pool and a kid’s pool with slide and beach entry.
The pre-engineered aluminium frame pool enclosure
system features a Kalwall translucent panel roof system with two unique
openable roof systems.
The retractable roof systems help create an atmosphere
that allows the facility to be operated as an outdoor pool in spring, summer
and autumn and as an indoor pool in winter months. With diffused natural
daylight and resistance to solar gain, coupled with significant reduction in
ventilation, cooling and dehumidification energy costs, energy-consuming
artificial lighting and air-conditioning costs are dramatically reduced.
The lightweight system also reduces the need for
supporting structures maximising the usable space while offering the highest
protection in terms of wind-borne debris and resistance to impact, abrasion and
point loads.
Kalwall’s insulation properties mean ‘U’
Values of up to 0.28 W/m2K can be achieved. This is as energy efficient as a
normal cavity wall and four times better than insulated glass units. The strong and lightweight panels feature a
colour stable, UV resistant
and self-cleaning surface, meaning the additional cost of ongoing maintenance
is kept to a minimum.
Kalwall is a popular choice for swimming pools and
leisure installations and offers many advantages over traditional glazing. The
unique ability to transmit large amounts of usable light with relatively low
levels of solar heat gain means less radiant energy transmitted and this,
coupled with diffusion, does away with the hot spots and glare.
Glare on a swimming pool surface is a common concern
with dazzling rippled sunlight bouncing off the surface which can cause
discomfort to swimmers. In addition, it can be a serious safety concern as
lifeguards can struggle to see swimmers should they be in need of assistance.
