Setec chooses ACTIsteel metal radiant panels for heating and cooling its new regional headquarters, Le Griffon II in Vitrolles

This innovative solution provides both heating and cooling for large spaces, while optimizing the building's energy performance.

A natural choice for performance and durability

According to Sandy Berbigette-Cottret, Director of the Fluids and Thermal Engineering division at Setec GL Engineering: “The choice of ACTIsteel panels was a natural one given the project requirements, particularly in terms of performance, durability, and technical integration. Their adaptability to the site constraints and the quality of their implementation were key factors in our decision.”

A technical solution with multiple advantages

ACTIsteel radiant panels were selected to address several major challenges of the project:

• Energy efficiency: They provide heating and cooling for large spaces while reducing energy consumption, with up to 40% savings compared to a traditional fan heater.
• Acoustic comfort: The perforated panels, covered with a thermo-acoustic veil, significantly improve sound absorption.
• Simplified installation: Integrating LED lighting directly into the panels at the factory speeds up ceiling installation.

A demonstration seat showcasing Setec's expertise

Two months ago, the Setec teams moved into their new premises, a 5.200 m² building spread over four levels (ground floor + 3). This headquarters replaces the former regional building, which had become outdated and was demolished. Beyond the architectural challenge – respecting the neighboring building, a listed 20th-century heritage site designed by Jean Prouvé – the project had to meet strict requirements in terms of energy performance, user comfort, and carbon emission reduction.

Consistent thermal comfort all year round

ACTIsteel panels diffuse heat and coolness by radiation, guaranteeing a homogeneous and pleasant thermal comfort:

• In winter: The hot water circulating in the panels ensures uniform radiation, allowing the set temperature to be lowered by approximately 3°C while maintaining the same feeling of comfort as with a fan heater.
• In summer: The cold water circulating in the panels captures the heat input and effectively contributes to cooling the spaces.

In total, 690 ACTIsteel panels were installed across the building's three levels. To improve acoustic comfort, perforated panels with a thermo-acoustic lining were chosen.

Careful architectural integration

Beyond their thermal performance, ACTIsteel panels integrate seamlessly into the project's architectural approach, which emphasizes exposed materials, consistent with the group's technical DNA. The majority of the metal panels are suspended beneath the slab, revealing the building's structure. In the meeting rooms, the T-edged panels have been integrated into suspended ceilings for a more uniform appearance.

Large panels for optimized installation

The layout of the large spaces led to the installation of:

• 33 island panels measuring 1.200 × 1.200 mm
• Nearly 160 panels, each 3,6 meters long

These large panels, a market exclusive, simplify on-site installation, minimize hydraulic connections, and enhance the overall aesthetics of the spaces. Factory-integrated LED lighting also enabled rapid installation without any additional on-site modifications. The panels are connected using push-fit flexible hoses, ensuring easy installation and a perfect seal.