FEATURE TECHNOLOGY HOLLOW CORE SLAB HEATING AND COOLING

How it works:
Heating season  During occupied hours, heat from internal loads is transferred to the hollow core slab through radiation. The heat is either transferred to the supply air or stored in the slab.  During unoccupied hours, if the hollow slab cools down below setpoint, the air handling system is started in full recirculation mode providing warm air to raise the slab temperature and heat the space. Cooling season  During occupied hours, heat from internal loads is absorbed by the concrete slab through radiation. Ventilation air is routed through the slab, absorbing heat or being cooled, depending on the temperature of the slab.  During unoccupied hours, cool nighttime air, when available, is circulated through the slab to remove heat and pre-cool the slab for the following day.  After a night cooling cycle, when stored energy in the thermal mass of the slab is sufficient to handle the space cooling load, the building will operate in a natural ventilation mode with operable windows.

Graphics Courtesy of Termodeck

Advantages:
 Reduces energy consumption and utility costs by storing excess heat in the thermal mass during occupied hours for use in heating the building during unoccupied hours  Results in energy, utility and equipment cost savings by pre-cooling during unoccupied hours, allowing peak electricity shaving during occupied hours Downsizes cooling equipment

Design considerations:
 Strategy for the building automation system sequencing between normal and natural ventilation modes needs to be addressed  In the event that a large or abnormal heating/cooling load is required in the space, control dampers should allow supply air to bypass the slabs, distributing air directly into the space Distribution spaces require an exposed ceiling

SMith and Andersen offers:

Responsive, reliable and creative engineering services Proven sustainable design solutions with LEED accredited professionals  Mechanical and electrical consulting engineering services, and communication design with proactive and dynamic project managers

SMITH AND ANDERSEN 4211 Yonge Street, Suite 500, Toronto, Ontario M2P 2A9 416- 487-8151 smithandandersen.com