Pass it on

Need an access floor system but haven't really got the space? Tricky voice, data and power requirements but the client doesn't want to shell out for a raised floor? D L Pass could be the answer to your prayers.

A nifty innovation from Legrand, D L Pass is an integrated access flooring solution. Its novel approach to cavity floor systems is effectively a low level access floor with dedicated cableways for power and data already built into it.

Although suitable also for new build, the system is set to revolutionise the office refurbishment market where, in older buildings, there is often simply not enough space to fit in a conventional raised floor: the 80 mm deep D L Pass system does not take up too much in the way of valuable floor to ceiling heights.

Legrand's design has installation time saving as a primary consideration. Interlocking tiles are simply cemented to a solid concrete base, and come with clear cut-out guides for floor boxes as well as clearly identified routes for power and data cables.

Our step-by-step guide shows you how it's done. Floor areas should be solid and level with a surface variation of not more than 65 mm over 1.5 m: if not, then screed floors first. To ensure a surface that is clean and free from dust, seal the floor with a diluted solution of polyvinyl acetate 12 hours before installation.

If the walls are square then off you go; if not, create a starting edge by fixing a batten to the sub-floor. Each 600 x 600 x 80 mm floor tile comes with 16 feet on the base of the tile. Apply a cement-based adhesive to each of the feet, then press the tile firmly at the starting point and ensure it is level. Continue building out from the corner in a triangular pattern, checking the level as you go. You will soon have a complete raised floor.

When a tile has to be cut, the additional support legs built into the base should be used. Simply snap off and clip into place to ensure stability is retained.

To pass delicate data cables between the lower and upper cableways, remove the cutaway section in the base. The cables can then be safely installed.

Legrand has made it easy for contractors to fit floor boxes. You need to mark out the aperture designed to accept the floor unit in the centre of a tile, then drill pilot holes in opposite corners of the marked area before cutting with a jigsaw.

Once cut, the centre section is lifted out and a floor box dropped in place. The unit can then be connected to power and data circuits. Floor boxes are supplied empty and a full range of accessories is available.