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its heat pumps and boilers in even the most extreme conditions.
Alongside these are hemi-anechoic chambers for acoustic testing and EMC chambers for electromagnetic interference assessments. These combined capabilities give Groupe Atlantic a competitive edge, with in-house facilities and expertise unmatched by any other UK heating solutions manufacturer.
Fully-integrated testing operations bring numerous benefits to the business. As Jason says:“ It reduces our reliance on third-party testing, meaning shorter lead times on new developments, and faster delivery to the marketplace. The UKTC also gives our teams direct, daily access to state-of-the-art facilities, meaning they can work to their full potential. There’ s no compromise between quality and efficiency- with the UKTC, we enjoy the best of both.”
▶ Stephen Patton, centre, Ideal Heating’ s R & D Director( Thermodynamics) with Jack Howdle, left, R & D Development Manager and Nick Allwood, R & D Design Manager, outside the company’ s new UK Technology Centre( UKTC)
▲ R & D Development Manager Jack Howdle is among the many specialists who will come together to collaborate and innovate heating solutions in the new UKTC
In addition to its testing facilities, the UKTC boasts an advanced 3D printing facility.“ Our 3D printing capabilities enable rapid prototyping of components, dramatically shortening the cycle from concept to testable product,” Jason explains.
“ Ultimately, the UKTC accelerates the development of the technologies that will decarbonize UK homes and business premises. For more than a century, the name Ideal has been synonymous with quality and innovation. This facility is key to ensuring that remains true for decades to come.”
The company’ s investment strategy extends far beyond the new UKTC. As part of a £ 60 million transformation program, the company’ s headquarters site in Hull is being equipped with new manufacturing, distribution and engineering facilities, in addition to the UKTC, which is now nearing completion.
“ The UKTC, at £ 19.2 million, is the most visible element, but the broader investment reflects our
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