By Design Tech Solutions — Specialists in Heat Network Modelling & Engineering

Introduction: From Feasibility to Final Drawings

Once a district heating scheme has passed feasibility, the next step is turning it into a fully designed, buildable system. That’s where detailed design comes in — bridging concept and construction with technical accuracy, coordination, and compliance.

At Design Tech Solutions, we produce detailed district heating designs that are practical, efficient, and ready for delivery. From pipe sizing and pressure loss calculations to insulation spec and as-builts, we make sure every detail is covered.

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What Is Detailed Design in District Heating?

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Detailed design is the process of translating a heat network concept into coordinated, construction-ready documentation.

It includes:

  • Precise pipe routing and sizing

  • Energy centre and HIU (Heat Interface Unit) layouts

  • Hydraulic and thermal modelling

  • Material and installation specifications

  • Coordination with civils, M&E, and architectural inputs

The output is a complete design package that allows contractors to price, plan, and build the network with confidence.

What We Deliver in Detailed Design

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Full Pipe Network Drawings
Accurate 2D/3D layouts showing pipe diameters, materials, levels, and expansion strategy.

Hydraulic Calculations
Pressure drops, temperature losses, pump sizing, and flow balancing across the network.

Plantroom & Energy Centre Layouts
Efficient spatial planning of pumps, heat exchangers, controls, and buffer vessels.

Specification & Schedules
Detailed material specifications for insulation, valves, joints, control systems, and HIUs.

Construction Stage Documentation
Supportive outputs including as-built drawings, redline markups, and O&M input.

Why Detailed Design Is Critical

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Detailed design is where risks are reduced and efficiency is engineered in. Without this stage, projects often face:

  • Clashes with existing utilities or site constraints

  • Inaccurate budgets due to unclear routing or materials

  • Delays due to poor documentation or compliance gaps

Our detailed design services are built to avoid these issues — integrating early modelling, stakeholder feedback, and installer input wherever possible.

FAQ

What’s included in a detailed design package? +
We provide pipe layouts, hydraulic calculations, energy centre layouts, material specifications, and construction-ready drawings.
When does detailed design begin? +
Typically at RIBA Stage 3, following feasibility and concept design approval.
Can DTS coordinate with architects and M&E teams? +
Yes — we routinely coordinate with wider design teams to ensure heating infrastructure integrates with buildings and utilities.
Does detailed design include cost input? +
While we’re not cost consultants, our designs are always coordinated with QS teams or budget frameworks to ensure accuracy.

The DTS Approach

We treat design as a delivery tool — not just a drawing exercise. Our team works closely with contractors, clients, and local authorities to ensure the design supports real-world delivery.

  • Engineering-led, not just draughting

  • Fully compliant with CP1 2020 and CDM

  • Constructability reviews and phasing input

  • CAD, Civil 3D and BIM capability included
    Tailored outputs for tendering and pricing

Design That Delivers

With detailed design in place, your district heating project has the clarity and confidence to move forward. We help you reduce risk, avoid delays, and build right — first time.

RELATED READS

Explore our detailed guides on designing effective, future-ready district heating systems. Each article is written to help clients, developers, and stakeholders understand what great network design looks like in practice.

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Feasibility Assessments for District Heating Projects

CAD & 3D Modelling in Heat Network Design

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CDM Regulations in District Heating Projects

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Planning Permission and Zoning for Heat Networks