The Solution

The ETHERMA Thermocassette infrared heating panels provided an ideal workshop heating solution. These flush-mounted ceiling panels were seamlessly integrated within the suspended ceiling grid maintaining the clean, minimalistic look required by Gtechniq.

Unlike convection heating, the infrared heating panels directly warm objects (floor, walls, people, vehicles, etc.) not the air. Warming the cars allows an easier application of the protective coatings, whilst the coatings themselves dry quicker. Infrared heats the room evenly, reducing the temperature gradient between the floor and ceiling (0.5°C- 1°C difference) which minimises convection currents and the circulation of dust particles which could stick to the coatings and spoil the high quality finish.

By warming the thermal mass of the detailing centre, the energy consumed (and paid for!) is stored in the building itself and therefore not lost when the large roller-doors are opened – as is the case with convection heating. Additionally, staff enjoy the uniform heating offered by infrared rather than hot and cold spots which are associated with convection heating.

The infrared workshop heating system comprises of 24 ETHERMA Thermocassette TC-300W infrared panels evenly distributed across the 150 m2 suspended ceiling. The panels are controlled by a hard-wired eTOUCH mini programmable thermostat which can switch up to 16 Amps or 3.8 kW of heating. With a heating load of 7.2 kW it was necessary for the thermostat to switch the infrared heating panels through an electronic relay system.

The in-ceiling infrared panels are ideally suited for full heating or zone heating in ceilings up to 3.5m high and give an even heat distribution, maximise the amount of floor space available and reduce the risk of damage from accidental impact.