SPC’s Thermatile TEN-TWELVE is a water-based radiant heating and cooling panel range designed for integration into suspended ceilings. The range consists of two panel types: the Thermatile TEN, which uses 10mm copper D-tube technology for individual panels and shorter runs up to 3,600mm, and the Thermatile TWELVE, which uses 12mm copper D-tube for longer continuous runs where maintaining manageable pressure drops is essential.
Both share an identical smooth, matt white room-facing finish, so panels from either type can be mixed within the same space. Panels are also available in any RAL colour to suit interior design requirements, including black panels for drama studios or spaces where aesthetics are a key consideration.
What is the difference between the Thermatile TEN and the Thermatile TWELVE?
The names refer directly to the copper tube diameter used inside each panel’s heating cartridge.
Thermatile TEN
The Thermatile TEN uses 10mm D-tube technology. The D-tube design involves flattening a circular copper tube to maximise contact between the tube and the aluminium panel, resulting in 360° contact and high heat transfer performance. This makes the Thermatile TEN ideal for individual panels and runs up to 3,600mm, where the smaller tube diameter ensures turbulent water flow and efficient heat transfer.
Thermatile TWELVE
The Thermatile TWELVE uses 12mm D-tube and is the preferred option when panel runs exceed 3,600mm. The larger tube diameter keeps pressure drops at manageable levels across extended configurations. Individual Thermatile TWELVE panels are connected together using push-fit interconnecting hoses to form continuous runs of any length.
Both panel types are built on the same 3-layer composite aluminium panel (maximum 5.5mm thick), and both are independently tested to EN 14037. The maximum operating temperature is 85°C, and the maximum operating pressure is 10 bar (tested to a minimum of 16 bar). SPC’s in-house selection software automatically determines whether TEN or TWELVE panels are required, based on run length and water flowrate.
What installation types are available for the Thermatile TEN-TWELVE?
The Thermatile TEN-TWELVE is available in various installation configurations, designed to suit the ceiling systems most commonly found in commercial and public sector buildings.
T-Bar Grid – The standard configuration. Panels are sized to fit directly into the aperture created when one or more tiles are removed from an exposed T-bar suspended ceiling grid. Panels are supported on independent wire hangers, with SPC’s hanging wire kits providing easy single-handed height adjustment via discreet 1.5mm stainless steel wire.
Plasterboard – For projects where radiant panels need to be inserted into a finished plasterboard ceiling, this version uses a pre-fitted frame that is screwed into a supported aperture. Where repeatable access is required, for maintenance or system changes, a two-part frame with push-fit locking is also available.
Free-Hanging – Panels can be suspended freely from a structural soffit using wire or rod suspension systems, suitable for spaces without a suspended ceiling, such as open-plan offices, atria, or industrial environments.
Wall-Mounted / Angled Panels – Where ceiling installation isn’t possible or practical, panels can be wall-mounted at an angle using brackets, directing radiant heat down into the occupied zone below.
Sportsline Panels – A configuration designed specifically for sports halls and gymnasiums. Ball guards are fitted over the panels to protect them from impact, making this the recommended installation type for high-activity environments.
Need custom RAL coloured panels?
SPC can manufacture Thermatile TEN-TWELVE panels in any RAL colour to suit your project. Whether you need black panels for a drama studio, a colour matched to an interior scheme, or something more distinctive! Get in touch with the team to discuss your requirements.
Frequently Asked Questions
The Thermatile TEN uses 10mm copper D-tube and suits individual panels and runs up to 3,600mm. The Thermatile TWELVE uses 12mm copper D-tube for longer continuous runs, where the larger diameter keeps pressure drops manageable. SPC’s selection software automatically determines which type is required. Both have the same visible finish and can be mixed within a single installation.
Yes. Both panel types work effectively at low water temperatures, typically 45–50°C, which is the normal operating range for heat pump systems. Their large surface area allows them to deliver meaningful heat output at these temperatures, making them more suitable for heat pump applications than radiators, which typically require higher flow temperatures.
Yes. Both Thermatile TEN and TWELVE panels can provide radiant cooling by circulating chilled water instead of hot water. For cooling applications, the panel surface temperature must be controlled to prevent condensation, typically requiring either a dehumidification system or careful chilled water temperature management. Contact SPC’s technical team for cooling system design guidance.
SPC’s zone control kit includes a Belimo valve and actuator, digital thermostat, and black bulb temperature sensor. The black bulb sensor measures resultant temperature, a combination of air and radiant temperature, which is a more accurate indicator of occupant comfort in radiant-heated spaces. Multiple panels can be controlled as a single zone, and the system can be integrated with a BMS for centralised control.
Yes. Active BIM objects are available for Revit, pre-populated with project-specific data from SPC’s selection programme, covering configurations and specifications for architects, designers, and contractors.
Specify the Thermatile TEN-TWELVE for Your Next Project
SPC’s technical team can support your Thermatile specification from initial design through to installation — including site surveys, selection software outputs, and full technical drawings provided with every quotation.