News from Sun-X

It was the end of a 3-year construction project for the contractor Carillion, who transformed what was a giant hole in the ground into a stunning glass clad landmark equivalent to the size of the old Wembley stadium. This radical design, known locally as the ‘Doughnut’ due to its shape, was ready for full occupation in June 2004.

GCHQ houses probably the most powerful computing facility in Europe, and the challenge of moving such complex systems has never before been undertaken in the UK. The directors of Sun-X(UK)Ltd are very pleased to have been able demonstrate the capability of their company to deliver quick, high quality solutions to blue chip clients with this contract. According to a GCHQ spokesman: “This is more than just a new building. For the first time ever, we will enjoy a working environment that has been specifically designed to support our fight against global terrorism, serious crime, and other threats to the UK.”

One threat that was not foreseen however was that of the sun. The sheer quantity of glazing in the design resulted in too much solar heat gain, raising temperatures within the building to uncomfortable levels.

To find a solution to the problem, Carillion turned to an Oxford University professor for advice. In turn, advice was sought from experts Sun-X (UK) Ltd, working in conjunction with CP Films, the world's largest manufacturer of window film. A unique computer simulation of the glazing system was undertaken by CP Films to determine the best solution to match the desired criteria. The objective was to reduce the solar heat gain whilst minimising light loss and achieving a total solar energy rejection of 81%. Due to the tinted glass within the glazing construction it was decided that an internally applied solar performance window film would not meet the required criteria.

Therefore it was finally decided that CP Films’ LLumar ® externally applied, light silver solar performance window film (film type REX50SIERHPR) would meet all the required criteria. As part of the design brief SUN-X were required to seal the straight edges of the window film with special powder coated aluminium foil tape, and the circular edges with silicone.

James Willson of Sun-X (CP Films Platinum Accredited Installer) managed the project and commented: “A lot of effort went into the design stage of this project with special consideration given to external access to the glazing and the associated health and safety issues. We completed the works within the timescale, covering over 3500m2 of glass.”

The completion of the ‘Doughnut’ represents a significant construction success, having been awarded the PFI Project of the Year 2002 Award; it is also believed to be a design classic that will earn plaudits for years to come. For more technical information about the Llumar product please see our