Thermaflex Pre-Insulated Piping Solutions Enhancing Energy Efficiency at UNESCO World Heritage Stonehenge

The Stonehenge Visitor Centre, positioned 2km west of the iconic stone circle, was designed to blend seamlessly into the Salisbury Plain while preserving the site’s integrity. The centre’s construction required advanced technology and environmentally sensitive design to minimize impact on the historical landscape.

When dealing with a 2.500 year old UNESCO World Heritage site, sustainability and environmental sensitivity are crucial factors to consider.

The primary objective was to ensure renewable practices throughout the project. The planners sought innovative materials that could be used above and below ground. A key concern was to minimize environmental disturbance while securing an efficient, sustainable heat supply and reducing heat loss for optimized energy efficiency.

To achieve these goals, architects Denton Corker Marshall and their contractors (Spectrum HPM) specified Flexalen® technology for the piping network linked to the ground source heating scheme. Flexalen®600 pre-insulated polybutene pipe is the world’s only Cradle to Cradle Certified® solution, offering strength, flexibility, and sustainable construction credentials. These pipes feature closed-cell, water-tight polyolefin thermal insulation and a homogeneous connection between insulation and casing pipe, forming a fully welded system. Additionally, the lightweight profile of Flexalen® pipes makes them easier to handle and install, crucial for sensitive sites such as the terrain of this project.

The installation process was meticulously controlled due to the site’s rich archaeological significance. The pipework was laid within a 2 meter infill on a landscape hollow. The lightweight profile, flexibility, and robustness of the Flexalen® pipes, with their HDPE outer casing, facilitated easier handling and installation, even in the site’s challenging conditions.

The laying process was closely managed to avoid disturbing any archaeological remains. The precise installation ensured that the pipes were integrated into the landscape with minimal intervention, preserving the historical integrity of the site. This approach also involved continuous coordination among the project team to align construction activities with sustainability goals and archaeological preservation requirements.

The new Stonehenge Visitor Centre is a model of advanced construction design and technology, from its canopy roof to its pipework infrastructure. The Flexalen® piping system provided a state-of-the-art solution, ensuring an efficient and sustainable heat supply.

The project highlights Thermaflex commitment to sustainability and innovation, contributing to the preservation of one of the world’s most iconic landmarks.