You are on page 1of 92

MAY 2018

ASHRAE
JOURNAL THE MAGAZINE OF HVAC&R TECHNOLOGY AND APPLICATIONS ASHRAE.ORG

Building Better Schools

Zero Energy
CFD Analysis of Hospital OR Ventilation Systems | Design Firm Trends
Use With Adequate Ventilation? | HVAC and Compounding Pharmacies
Daikin VRV LIFE™ Systems for Residential Applications
Re-inventing residential air-conditioning by breaking technological barriers. Precision
engineered for flexibility, zoning, low sound and space saving, with the ability to mix and
match ducted and duct-free indoor units in combination with a gas furnace.

DUAL-FUEL HEATING
Flexibility to switch between gas or heat pump
heating at various temperatures
GAS FURNACE &
A Coil

WALL-MOUNTED
UNIT

DESIGN
FLEXIBILITY
Able to mix and
SLIM-DUCT
match ducted and CEILING UNIT
duct-free indoor units

Space Saving
Compact Design
Minimizes space required for
outdoor unit installation.

Daikin’s VRV LIFE systems offer a revolutionary approach to comfort


with a wide variety of whole home solutions: multi-zone heating and
cooling, inverter heat pump with dual-fuel heating capability, compact
outdoor unit connects up to 9 indoor units, flexibility to mix and match
ducted and duct-free indoor units, high heat pump heating capacities
below 0°F (-18°C).
NEW

72o

70o 74o

Learn more at daikincomfort.com

At Daikin, “Air Intelligence™” is delivering indoor comfort – whatever the conditions.

2018 Daikin, VRV and their designs are trademarks owned by Daikin.
Security Management

www.reliablecontrols.com/MCP-RCP
The MACH-CheckPoint door access controller is a new Power
over Ethernet (PoE) device designed to meet or exceed the
BACnet Advanced Application Controller (B-AAC) profile. This
fully configurable controller integrates up to two doors and four
readers, and ships with the Reliable Controls industry-recognized
5-year warranty. Once programmed with the RC-Passport
software, the combination delivers a truly integrated facility
solution within the Reliable Controls MACH-System.
CONTENTS VOL. 60, NO. 5, MAY 2018

PHOTO CREDIT: DIGITAL IMAGING & DESIGN, INC. USED BY PERMISSION.


STANDING COLUMNS
48
56 ENGINEER’S NOTEBOOK
N+1 HVAC for IT Closets
And Server Rooms
By Stephen W. Duda, P.E.

62 BUILDING SCIENCES
Avoiding Mass Failures
14 36 By Joseph W. Lstiburek, Ph.D., P.Eng.

FEATURES 70 IEQ APPLICATIONS


14 CFD Analysis of Hospital Use With Adequate
Ventilation?
Operating Room Ventilation Systems By Francis J. Offermann; Mark Nicas
Part 1: Analysis of Air Change Rates
By Kishor Khankari, Ph.D. 84 REFRIGERATION APPLICATIONS
Anyone for Entropy?
28 HVAC and Compounding By Andy Pearson, Ph.D., C.Eng.

Pharmacies: Design Requirements


By Steven M. Spellman, P.E.

44 For Better Performance—Measure


Against the Best 4
DEPARTMENTS
Commentary
By Cathy Cecere
6 Industry News
12 Meetings and Shows
2018 ASHRAE TECHNOLOGY AWARDS 78 InfoCenter
36 Paving a Path for Zero Energy Schools 86
87
Special Products
Classified Advertising
By Ray Beaufait, P.E. 88 Advertisers Index

48 Passive Strategies Drive Library Design


By Lianne Cockerton, P.Eng.; Martin Roy, P.Eng.

ASHRAE Technology Portal | Repository of ASHRAE Content PUBLICATION DISCLAIMER | ASHRAE has compiled this publication
with care, but ASHRAE has not investigated and ASHRAE
Techn
Free to Members: Journal Articles • Research Reports expressly disclaims any duty to investigate any product,
service, process, procedure, design or the like which may
ology be described herein. The appearance of any technical data,
Porta
l Available by Subscription: editorial material or advertisement in this publication does
Transactions • Conference Papers • Conference Seminars not constitute endorsement, warranty or guarantee by ASHRAE
of any product, service, process, procedure, design or the
technologyportal.ashrae.org like. ASHRAE does not warrant that the information in this
publication is free of errors and ASHRAE does not necessarily
agree with any statement or opinion in this publication. The
ASHRAE® Journal (ISSN 0001-2491) PUBLISHED MONTHLY | Copyright 2018 by ASHRAE, 1791 Tullie Circle N.E., Atlanta, GA 30329. entire risk of the use of any information in this publication and
Periodicals postage paid at Atlanta, Georgia, and additional mailing offices. LETTERS/MANUSCRIPTS | Letters to the editor its supplement is assumed by the user.
and manuscripts for publication should be sent to: Jay Scott, Editor, ASHRAE Journal, jayscott@ashrae.org. SUBSCRIPTIONS
| $8 per single copy (includes postage and handling on mail orders). Subscriptions for members $6 per year, included
with annual dues, not deductible. Nonmember $85 (includes postage in USA); $85 (includes postage for Canadian); ONLINE at ASHRAE.org | Feature articles are available online.
$149 international (includes air mail). Expiration dates vary for both member and nonmember subscriptions. Payment Members can access articles at no cost. Nonmembers may
(U.S. funds) required with all orders. CHANGE OF ADDRESS | Requests must be received at subscription office eight weeks purchase articles at www.ashrae.org/bookstore. MICROFILM |
before effective date. Send both old and new addresses for the change. ASHRAE members may submit address changes This publication is microfilmed by National Archive Publishing
at www.ashrae.org/address. POSTMASTER | Send form 3579 to: ASHRAE Journal, 1791 Tullie Circle N.E., Atlanta, GA 30329. Company. For information on cost and issues available, contact
Canadian Agreement Number 40037127. NAPC at 800-420-NAPC or www.napubco.com.

M A Y 2 0 18 ashrae.org ASHRAE JOURNAL 3


COMMENTARY
1791 Tullie Circle NE
Atlanta, GA 30329-2305
Phone: 404-636-8400
Fax: 404-321-5478 | www.ashrae.org Jay Scott
PUBLISHER
W. Stephen Comstock
EDITORIAL
Design Path for Compounding Pharmacies
Editor
Jay Scott An article this month focuses on the such that air moves from the cleanest
jayscott@ashrae.org challenges for design engineers in area to the dirtiest area before being
Managing Editor designing compounding pharmacies. removed from the building, the author
Sarah Foster
sfoster@ashrae.org Compounding pharmacies are areas writes.
Associate Editor that allow pharmacists to mix and pro- Requirements for compounding
Rebecca Matyasovski
rmatyasovski@ashrae.org duce custom strengths, dosages and pharmacies can change from room
Associate Editor forms of medication that are not read- to room. Similar to cleanroom and
Christopher Weems ily available. critical environment applications,
cweems@ashrae.org
Associate Editor
The author notes that the Facilities compounding pharmacies pose chal-
Jeri Alger Guidelines Institute standards (inclu- lenges for design engineers, including
jalger@ashrae.org
sive of ASHRAE/ASHE Standard 170) temperature, humidity, air changes,
Associate Editor
Mary Kate McGowan are the most widely accepted standard pressurization and air cleanliness.
mmcgowan@ashrae.org for health-care facilities. However, he The author provides details on each
Assistant Editor writes that there are no in-depth crite- of these factors.
Tani Palefski
tpalefski@ashrae.org ria for compounding pharmacies.
PUBLISHING SERVICES Engineers are dependent upon CRITICAL SPACES, the author
Publishing Services Manager
David Soltis two publications from United States writes, should be designed to accom-
Production Pharmacopeia (USP) that are not writ- modate for changes in conditions,
Jayne Jackson ten for engineers or building design as well as for flexibility for potential
ADVERTISING
Associate Publisher,
professionals. future changes within the space.
ASHRAE Media Advertising “Design options such as fast acting air
Greg Martin
gmartin@ashrae.org STANDARDS MUST BE exceed- valves, dedicated VAVs for each room,
Advertising Production Coordinator ingly high for compounding drugs to variable frequency drives on fans,
Vanessa Johnson ensure the safety of the pharmacist parameter monitoring, and digital
vjohnson@ashrae.org
CIRCULATION
and the patient receiving the medica- pressurization controls should all be
Circulation Specialist tion. The pharmacy staff must work in considered for compounding pharma-
Ann Morris
amorris@ashrae.org additional layers of protective clothing cies,” the author writes.
ASHRAE OFFICERS that makes lower design temperatures There are many requirements listed
President desirable. Higher design temperatures within the USP standards. The author
Bjarne W. Olesen, Ph.D.
President-Elect and relative humidity levels may cre- writes that it is up to designers to make
Sheila J. Hayter, P.E. ate difficult working conditions for use of all the available information.
Treasurer pharmacy staff and are more prone to While USP chapters are becoming
Darryl K. Boyce, P.Eng.
Vice Presidents generating bacteria. widely accepted across the U.S., the
Julia A. Keen, Ph.D., P.E. Various layouts and arrangements author writes that it is important to
Michael Schwedler, P.E.
Ginger Scoggins, P.E. of compounding pharmacies are pos- always design around current state and
Edward Tsui
sible. The space requirements will federal regulations regarding these
Secretary & Executive Vice President
Jeff H. Littleton change depending on the type of pharmacies, with room to adapt to the
POLICY GROUP drugs being produced. All compound- future.
2017 – 18 Chair ing pharmacies should be designed Enjoy the issue.
Publications Committee
Francis Lacharité
Washington Office
washdc@ashrae.org Mission Statement: ASHRAE Journal reviews current HVAC&R technology of broad interest through publica-
tion of application-oriented articles. ASHRAE Journal’s editorial content ranges from back-to-basics features
to reviews of emerging technologies, covering the entire spectrum of professional interest from design and
construction practices to commissioning and the service life of HVAC&R environmental systems.

4 ASHRAE JOURNAL ashrae.org M A Y 2 0 18


We've created an HVAC system so powerful, the benefits are universal.

Introducing the Carrier AquaEdge® 19DV Water-Cooled Centrifugal Chiller –


the ultimate solution for efficient cooling and heating.
For years, experts have implemented multiple types of cooling and heating equipment to achieve
optimal performance, efficiency, reliability and control. But now Carrier delivers it all with one
incredibly groundbreaking system. The all-new 19DV Water-Cooled Centrifugal Chiller offers several
innovative features, incredible versatility and a full-system approach including cooling, free cooling
and heat recovery. It’s the ultimate BTU machine – a universal piece of equipment that’s enabling
intelligent HVAC design and changing the way you think about mechanical systems for good.

• EquiDriveTM Two-Stage Compressor


• SmartViewTM Controls
• SMART Service
• Totally Enclosed VFD
• Ultra-Low GWP, A1 Refrigerant

For more information, contact your local Carrier expert or visit carrier.com/19DV
©Carrier Corporation 2018. A unit of United Technologies Corporation. Stock symbol UTX. Remote control is for illustrative purposes only and is not
a working component of this solution. *The Carrier 19DV offers optional free cooling, which may meet many new building code requirements and can
result in thousands of dollars in energy savings per year while reducing maintenance costs.
INDUSTRY NEWS

University of Toronto Develops


Innovative Laboratories
TORONTO—Two new facilities test innovative envelope de-
situated atop the University signs. A concrete slab, which
of Toronto Sandford Fleming is thermally broken between
The new Twin Suites Rooftop Lab installed on Sandford Fleming’s rooftop will catalyze
Building will advance multi- the suites, can be used for building science research and collaboration at the University of Toronto.
disciplinary building science thermal mass and thermal
research into how buildings comfort studies. The suites

PHOTO CREDIT: LIZ DO/ UNIVERSITY OF TORONTO


consume and distribute are lined with galvanized
energy and control indoor steel, a relatively non-reac-
environments. tive surface that can be used
The lab has twin suites for indoor air quality (IAQ)
so that one can be used as experiments. The facility is
a “control” for tests of vari- also equipped with a range
ables related to heat, mois- of independent HVAC sys-
ture, air movement and in- tems, which will allow for This interior view shows how the twin suites contain various systems, with the suites
door air quality. The exterior investigations into innova- themselves designed for flexibility and modification as new materials and methods of
construction become available.
has twin removable panels tive control strategies to pro-
on each orientation so that mote better thermal comfort includes Marianne Touchie, ASHRAE, and Jeffrey Siegel,
the facility can be used to and IAQ. The research team Ph.D., Associate Member Ph.D., Member ASHRAE.

INNOVATIVE FEATURES IN A COMPACT SIZE?

CHALLENGE ACCEPTED.
With a 16” chassis, low-maintenance static core
and 50% total energy recovery effectiveness,
the Ruskin¨ MCV500 and MCV1000 MiniCore
Ventilators provide remarkable value in a size
that works for more applications.

YEAR
Visit ruskin.com for more information. LIMITED
WARRANTY

6 ASHRAE JOURNAL ashrae.org M A Y 2 0 18


Benchmark® Platinum
Optimize Your Hydronic System for Maximum Efficiency and Savings

AERtrim Dual Returns onAER


Peak Performance Maximum Efficiency Predictive Maintenance
AERCO’s patented O2 Trim technology Enables design and application A pro-active tool detailing
self-adjusts the combustion process flexibility — increases efficiency comprehensive unit performance
to deliver optimal O2 levels keeping up to an additional 7%. so you can ensure your system
your boiler operating smoothly at operates optimally reducing
peak performance. costly unscheduled maintenance.

©2018 AERCO 800.526.0288 aerco.com


INDUSTRY NEWS

DOE Establishing sus on a proposed rule regarding test


procedures and energy conservation
VRF Technologies

PHOTO CREDIT: UTC


standards for VRF multi-split systems,
Working Group as authorized by the Energy Policy and
WASHINGTON, D.C.—The U.S. Department of Conservation Act (EPCA) of 1975, as
Energy (DOE) recently announced in amended. DOE says the working group An interior view of UTC’s state-of-the-art customer
the Federal Register that it is establish- will consist of representatives of parties experience center.
ing a negotiated rulemaking working “having a defined stake in the outcome as “a state-of-the-art innovation and
group under the Appliance Standards of the proposed standards and/or test technology experience center.” The
and Rulemaking Federal Advisory Com- procedure, and will consult as appropri- building will serve as world headquar-
mittee (ASRAC) in accordance with the ate with a range of experts on technical ters to UTC’s Climate, Controls and
Federal Advisory Committee Act (FACA) issues.” Security arm. It will also be a private
and the Negotiated Rulemaking Act and public showcase of UTC’s tech-
(NRA). The working group is intended United Technologies nologies. The building features systems
to negotiate proposed test procedures designed to reduce energy use by 60%,
and amended energy conservation
Opens Headquarters water use by 36%, and carbon dioxide by
standards for variable refrigerant flow PALM BEACH GARDENS, FLA.—United Technolo- 60%, the company says. A smart phone
multi-split air conditioners and heat gies (UTC) this week opened its new application allows employees to control
pumps (VRF multi-split systems). The UTC Center for Intelligent Buildings the temperature and adjust the lights
purpose of the working group will be to in Florida. UTC describes the $115 mil- anywhere in the building, while 3-D
discuss and, if possible, reach consen- lion, 224,000 ft² (20 800 m²) building printing enables employees to make

Another AJ innovation: the industry's first FFU with up to 1100 CFM!

Introducing the NEW Criti-Clean Ultra – the highest


capacity fan filter unit on the market!
We've completely re-designed and re-engineered the industry’s leading fan powered
laminar flow HEPA filter diffuser to maximize both CFM and energy efficiency!
50%
HIGHER
Our new Criti-Clean Ultra has the highest CFM output on the market (up to 1100 CFM
for our 48"x24" model), is more energy efficient (only 42 watts at 90 FPM velocity/
OUTPUT
450 CFM), and is incredibly quiet (only 45 DBA at 90 FPM, 58 DBA at 1100 CFM). and better
energy
Plus, the Criti-Clean Ultra still offers you all these great features:
efficiency!
• Room-side digital CFM display and control.
• Room side access to HEPA or ULPA filter and pre-filter.
• Optional white or green surgical grade LED lighting.
• Stainless steel construction with all-welded plenum.
• Computer-controlled, variable-speed ECM motor.
• Reverse flow, recirculating, heating/cooling units available.
• 48"x24", 36"x24", 24"x24" size options.
• Ability to map and control up to 2,000 linked units.

Find out more today!


816-231-5522 • www.ajmfg.com

8 ASHRAE JOURNAL ashrae.org M A Y 2 0 18


INDUSTRY NEWS

their own fan blades and engine parts. Interactive displays economic sector, and GHG, going back to 1990. The gases
will help familiarize potential customers with the company’s covered by this inventory include: carbon dioxide, methane,
offerings. UTC also plans to host children to teach them about nitrous oxide, hydrofluorocarbons, perfluorocarbons, sulfur
science, technology, engineering and mathematics concepts. hexafluoride and nitrogen trifluoride. The inventory also cal-
The center’s technology shows how United Technologies’ culates carbon dioxide emissions that are removed from the
employees “take challenges that some would think impossible, atmosphere by “sinks,” e.g., through the uptake of carbon and
and are building the possible,” UTC Climate, Controls and storage in forests, vegetation, and soils.
Security division President Bob McDonough said at the grand
opening event in mid-April. DOE Funds Nine Projects for
EPA Report Finds Reductions Solar Power Technologies
WASHINGTON, D.C.—The U.S. Department of Energy (DOE) on April
In GHGs in U.S. 18 announced up to $20 million in funding for nine projects
WASHINGTON, D.C.—The 2018 edition of EPA’s comprehensive annual to advance early-stage solar power electronics technologies.
report on greenhouse gas emissions concludes that GHGs have These innovations are critical to address solar photovoltaic
been reduced by about 2% below 2015 levels and 11% below (PV) reliability challenges, as well as to drive down the cost of
2005 levels. It adds that between 2005 and 2016, GHG emis- installing and maintaining a PV solar system. The projects are
sions in the U.S. electric power sector have dropped by rough- intended to help achieve DOE’s goal to cut the cost of electric-
ly 25%. EPA’s annual report, the “Inventory of U.S. Greenhouse ity for a solar system in half by 2030. The nine projects will be
Gas (GHG) Emissions and Sinks: 1990-2016,” provides a conducted by National Laboratories, universities and private
comprehensive look at U.S. emissions and removals by source, companies.

TAKE A DEEPER LOOK.


FIND A SMARTER SOLUTION.

More places. More spaces.


More environmental control expertise.
Five decades of consulting with customers has produced
innovations like the industry’s first variable speed Computer
Room Air Conditioning System and the new InterpretAire™
for laboratories and medical imaging rooms.

More and more people are finding Data Aire


offers performance, scalability and flexibility
FOR CRITICAL ENVIRONMENTS.

What solutions will a deeper look reveal to you?


Visit www.DataAire.com/DeeperLook

10 ASHRAE JOURNAL ashrae.org M A Y 2 0 18


MEETINGS AND SHOWS FULL CALENDAR: WWW.ASHRAE.ORG/CALENDAR

MAY
AIHce 2018, May 21–23, Philadelphia. Contact OCTOBER CALLS FOR PAPERS
Bethany Blue Chirico, American Industrial Hygiene AHR Expo-Mexico, Oct. 2–4, Mexico City. Co-
Society, at 703-846-0746, bchirico@aiha.org, or sponsored by ASHRAE. Contact the Internation- ASHRAE JOURNAL
www.aihce2018.org. al Exposition Company at 203-221-9232, info@ ASHRAE Journal seeks applications arti-
ahrexpomexico.com or www.ahrexpomexico.com. cles of 3,000 or fewer words. Submissions
JUNE IFMA World Workplace, Oct. 3–5, Charlotte, N.C. are subject to peer reviews and cannot
ASHE Annual Conference & Technical Contact the International Facility Management have been published previously. Submit
Exhibition, June 15–18, Seattle. Contact the Association at 713-623-4362, events@ifma.org or abstracts before sending articles to Jay
American Society for Healthcare Engineering at http://worldworkplace.ifma.org.
312-422-3800, ashe@aha.org or www.ashe.org/ Scott, Editor, at jayscott@ashrae.org.
annual. SMACNA Annual Convention, Oct. 14–17, San
SCIENCE AND TECHNOLOGY
Diego. Contact the Sheet Metal and Air Condi-
AIA Conference on Architecture, June 21–23, FOR THE BUILT ENVIRONMENT
tioning Contractors’ Association at 703-803-
New York. Contact the American Institute 2980, info@smacna.org or www.smacna.org/ ASHRAE’s Science and Technology for the Built
of Architects at 800-343-4146, register@ annualconvention. Environment seeks papers on original, com-
conferenceonarchitecture.com or www. pleted research not previously published.
World Energy Engineering Congress, Oct. 17–19,
conferenceonarchitecture.com. Papers must discuss how the research con-
Charlotte, N.C. Contact Connie Meadows, Associa-
BOMA International Conference and Expo, June tion of Energy Engineers, at 770-447-5083, ext. 226, tributes to technology. Papers should be
23–26, San Antonio. Contact the Building Owners connie@aeecenter.org or www.energycongress. about 6,000 words. Abstracts and papers
and Managers Association at 202-408-2662, com. should be submitted on Manuscript Cen-
meetings@boma.org or www.bomaconvention.org.
NOVEMBER tral at www.ashrae.org/manuscriptcentral.
ASHRAE Annual Conference, June 23–27, RETA Conference, Nov. 6–9, Dallas. Contact the Contact Reinhard Radermacher, Ph.D.,
Houston. Contact ASHRAE at 800-527-4723 or Refrigerating Engineers and Technicians Associa- Editor, at raderm@umd.edu.
meetings@ashrae.org. tion at 541-497-2955, info@reta.com or https://
ASHRAE CONFERENCE PAPERS
tinyurl.com/RETA2018
JULY For the 2019 Annual Conference in Kan-
2018 Purdue Compressor/Refrigeration and Air AHRI Annual Meeting, Nov. 11–13, Tucson, Ariz.
sas City, Conference Paper abstracts, full
Conditioning and High Performance Buildings Contact the Air-Conditioning, Heating, & Refrig-
eration Institute at 703-524-8800, bteferi@ahrinet. Technical Papers and paper session re-
Conferences and Short Courses, July 9–12, West
Lafayette, Ind. Contact Kim Stockment at 765-494- org or www.ahrinet.org. quests are due July 2, 2018. For more in-
6078, hlconf16@purdue.edu or http://tinyurl.com/ Greenbuild International Conference and Expo, formation, contact tcox@ashrae.org or
Purdue2018. Nov. 14–16, Chicago. Contact organizers at 866- tel: 678-539-1137.
Indoor Air 2018, July 22–27, Philadelphia. Contact 815-9824, info@greenbuildexpo.com or www.
organizers at IndoorAir2018@gmail.com or www. greenbuildexpo.com.
indoorair2018.org. ABX 2018, Nov. 28–29, Boston. Contact organizers England, United Kingdom. Endorsed by ASHRAE.
at 972-536-6444, abx.info@informa.com or www. Contact organizers at hfo2018@ior.org.uk or www.
AUGUST abexpo.com. ior.org.uk/HFO2018.
SOLAR 2018, Aug. 5–8, Boulder, Colo. Contact the
OCTOBER
American Solar Energy Society at 303-443-3130, DECEMBER
HARDI Annual Conference, Dec. 1–4, Austin, The Third International Conference on Efficient
info@ases.org or www.ases.org/conference.
Texas. Contact the Heating, Air-conditioning, & Re- Building Design, Oct. 4–5, Beirut, Lebanon. Con-
ACEEE Summer Study on Energy Efficiency in frigeration Distributors International at 614-345- tact ASHRAE at 800-527-4723, meetings@ashrae.
Buildings, Aug. 12–17, Pacific Grove, Calif. Con- 4328, hardimail@hardinet.org or www.hardinet. org, or www.ashrae.org/Beirut2018.
tact the American Council for an Energy-Efficient org. Chillventa,Oct. 16–18, Nuremberg, Germany.
Economy at 202-507-4000 or http://aceee.org/ Contact organizers at 49 911 8606 4906 or www.
conferences/2018/ssb. chillventa.de/en.
Electrification 2018 International Conference & OUTSIDE NORTH AMERICA SAIE 2018, Oct. 17–20, Bologna, Italy. Contact
Exposition, Aug. 20-23, Long Beach, Calif. Con- JUNE Antonella Grossi, Exhibition Manager, at 39 051
tact info@electrification2018.com or http://www. Roomvent Ventilation, June 2–5, Espoo, Fin- 282867, antonella.grossi@bolognafiere.it, or www.
electrification2018.com. land. Endorsed by ASHRAE. Contact Jorma saie.bolognafiere.it
Säteri, executive manager of the Finnish So- CTBUH 2018 Middle East Conference, Oct. 20–25,
SEPTEMBER ciety of Indoor Air Quality and Climate (Fi-
IBPC 2018, Sept. 23–26, Syracuse, N.Y. Endorsed by Dubai, UAE. Contact the Council on Tall Building
SIAQ) at info@roomventilation2018.org or www. and Urban Habitat at 312-283-5599, CTBUH2018@
ASHRAE. Contact organizers at http://ibpc2018.org. roomventilation2018.org. emirates.com or www.ctbuh2018.org
NAFA Annual Convention, Sept. 26–27, Incline Vil- Gustav Lorentzen Conference on Natural Refrig-
lage, Nev. Contact the National Air Filtration Asso- erants, June 18–20, Valencia, Spain. Contact or- DECEMBER
ciation at 608-310-7542, nafa@nafahq.org, or www. ganizers at +34 96 387 7270, gl2018@iie.upv.es or PLEA 2018, Dec. 10–12, Hong Kong. Contact the
nafahq.org/event/2018-nafa-annual-convention. www.gl2018.upv.es. Passive and Low Energy Architecture Association at
info@plea2018.org or www.plea2018.org.
2018 Building Performance Analysis Conference
& SimBuild, Sept. 26–28, Chicago. Endorsed by
AUGUST
The 16th International Heat Transfer Conference, 2019
ASHRAE and IBPSA-USA. Contact ASHRAE at 800-
Aug. 10–15, Beijing, China. Contact the Heat and
527-4723, meetings@ashrae.org or http://tinyurl.
Mass Transfer Society of China at info@ihtc16.org MAY
com/BuildPerform2018.
or www.ihtc16.org. CLIMA 2019, May 26–29, Bucharest, Romania.
ASPE Convention & Expo, Sept. 28–Oct. 3, Atlan- Contact the Federation of European Heating, Ven-
ta. Contact the American Society of Plumbing En- SEPTEMBER tilation and Air Conditioning Associations (REHVA)
gineers at 847-296-0002, info@aspe.org or http:// 1st IIR International Conference on the Applica- at +32-2-5141171, info@rehva.eu or http://www.
expo.aspe.org. tion of HFO Refrigerants, Sept. 2–5, Birmingham, clima2019.org.

12 ASHRAE JOURNAL ashrae.org M A Y 2 0 18


TECHNICAL FEATURE

Computational Fluid Dynamics (CFD) Analysis of

Hospital Operating Room


Ventilation Systems
Part I: Analysis of Air Change Rates
BY KISHOR KHANKARI, PH.D., FELLOW ASHRAE

The primary objective of hospital operating room (OR) ventilation systems is to mini-
mize surgical site infection due to airborne contaminants and bacteria and to provide
a comfortable environment for surgeons and other staff in the room. The key factor
in reducing surgical site infection is to minimize the contamination of the sterile (clean)
zone where the surgical procedures are performed. One source of infection in the OR is
squames, which are skin scales shed from the exposed skin of occupants in the room.1
Once airborne, these bacteria-carrying particulates generally follow the path of airflow in
the room. The OR ventilation system should effectively sweep these particulates out of the
sterile zone and minimize their re-entrainment from non-sterile (contaminated) zones.
ASHRAE/ASHE Standard 170-2017 2 provides minimum positive pressure with a total of 20 air changes per hour
requirements for the design and layout of the ventila- (ACH) supplied with 4 ACH outside air. The supply air
tion systems in operating rooms which presumably can should be unidirectional directed downward with an
maintain a sterile environment around the surgical site. average discharge velocity of 25 to 35 fpm (0.13 to 0.18
According to this standard, diffuser array should provide m/s). These specifications for minimum discharge veloci-
airflow over the patient and surgical team. Furthermore, ties are based on previous CFD studies, which concluded
the coverage area of the primary supply diffuser array that such velocities and the coverage area of the diffuser
should extend a minimum of 12 in. (305 mm) beyond array would overcome the rising buoyant plumes from
the footprint of the surgical table on each side. The room the sensible heat sources (i.e., surgical lights in the ster-
should be equipped with at least two low sidewall exhaust ile zone), as well as protect the surgical site by allowing a
grilles placed at opposite corners, with the bottom of local thermal plume to develop from a relatively “warm”
these exhaust grilles installed approximately 8 in. (203 surgical site.3 The later assumption, however, could not
mm) above the floor. In addition, the OR should maintain be verified by the ASHRAE-funded research project on

Kishor Khankari, Ph.D., is president at AnSight LLC in Ann Arbor, Mich.

14 ASHRAE JOURNAL ashrae.org M A Y 2 0 18


FIGURE 1 Diagram of CFD model of a hospital operating room. (Left) Isometric View. (Right) Plan View.
Door Anesthesia Machine Anesthesiologist
Surgical
Lights (2) Laminar Diffusers (9)
Overhead Lights
Screens

Back
Table

Door Leakages (2)


Waste Disposal
Back Table Scrubbing Nurse
Return Grilles (2)

experimental evaluation of hospital OR ventilation sys- FIGURE 2 Airflow patterns at central plane in the operating room for three differ-
tems.4 It should be noted that the role ASHRAE standards ent ACH showing similar airflow patterns; with air recirculation and entrainment at
is to provide only “minimum requirements,” which may the edge of the sterile zone.
not be the optimal design guidelines.
Air is the primary carrier of heat, moisture, contami-
nants, and airborne particulates in operating rooms. The
distribution of supply air and the associated flow path of
the air determine the resulting air velocities, temperature,
and concentration of contaminants, and flow path of air-
borne particulates at various locations in the room. Such
distribution, in turn, determines thermal comfort, air
quality, and potential for transmission of airborne particu- ACH = 15
lates. Ideally, in an operating room the supply air should
pass through the sterile zone and exit through exhaust
grilles in a “single pass” manner without recirculation and
mixing with the supply airstream. It is generally believed
that high air change rates can yield a cleaner environment
in the operating rooms. However, recent studies indicate
increasing ACH does not necessarily provide a cleaner envi-
ronment but substantially increases the operating costs.5
The airflow patterns, temperature distribution, and
resulting flow path of airborne contaminants can depend ACH = 23

on several interrelated factors including the location,


type, and number of supply diffusers; supply air change
rates and supply air temperature; locations and strengths
of various heat sources in a room, including the ambi-
ent and surgical lights; size and location of equipment in
the room that can obstruct the flow path of the air and
contaminants; size and locations of room returns; and
perhaps also on the frequency of opening and closing OR
doors. Physical testing and real time measurements of all ACH = 31
the parameters that can affect the performance of the OR

M A Y 2 0 18 ashrae.org ASHRAE JOURNAL 15


TECHNICAL FEATURE

FIGURE 3 Contours of air velocity at central plane in the operating room for three FIGURE 4 Contours of air temperature at central plane in the operating room
different ACH rates showing the discharge air accelerates as it approaches the showing thermal stratification occurs at all three different ACH, and increasing
operating table, with higher velocity zones (shown in red) occurring near the edge ACH minimizes the contraction of the supply air jet and decreases the average
of the sterile zone at higher ACH. temperature in the OR.

FPM Temperature (°F) ACH = 15


70.0 75.0
ACH = 15
65.5 74.2
61.0 73.4
58.5 72.6
52.0 71.8
47.5 71.0
43.0 70.2
38.5 69.4
34.0 68.6
29.5 ACH = 23 67.8 ACH = 23
25.0 67.0

ACH = 31 ACH = 31

ventilation system including the airflow patterns and the distribution, and on the probable flow path of airborne
resulting flow path of contaminants is not feasible, if not particulates in a typical OR. This study also attempts to
impossible.1,4,5,6 In such situations CFD analyses may pro- analyze the impact of supply airflow rates on the entrain-
vide a feasible alternative based on sound scientific laws ment of the surrounding air into the sterile zone by evalu-
of physics, including laws of air motion and heat transfer. ating the acceleration of centerline velocity of the supply
CFD analyses provide detailed three-dimensional visu- air jet. A follow-up CFD study, which will be published in
alization of airflow and temperature distributions ulti- a future issue will analyze the impact of HVAC configura-
mately leading to valuable insights of airflow patterns and tion on the performance of OR ventilation systems.
the resulting flow path of airborne contaminants.
The main objective of this CFD study is to evaluate Virtual Setup of the Operating Room
the impact ACH on the airflow patterns, temperature A three-dimensional, steady-state, non-isothermal

16 ASHRAE JOURNAL ashrae.org M A Y 2 0 18


Manufactured, Engineered, Headquartered,
and Owned in the U.S.A.

Up to
20
IEER

AAON systems are available with staged, two-step, 10-100% variable capacity
and variable speed compressors. AAON flexibility allows the equipment to meet
your application’s efficiency and control requirements.

For More Information Contact Your Local


AAON Representative Today!
www.AAON.com/RepSearch
TECHNICAL FEATURE

FIGURE 5 Flow path of airborne particulates originating from the occupants inside the FIGURE 6 Flow path of airborne particulates originating from the anesthesiologist at
sterile zone demonstrating particles being swept from the sterile zone into the non- the edge of the sterile zone demonstrating particles being swept from the sterile
sterile zone where they recirculate before exiting the OR, at three different ACH. zone into the non-sterile zone before exiting the OR, at three different ACH.

ACH = 15 ACH = 15

ACH = 23 ACH = 23

ACH = 31 ACH = 31

CFD model of a hospital OR is developed for this study as Most of these entities are located within the sterile zone
per the minimum requirements stated in Standard 170- (under the array of laminar “unidirectional” diffusers)
2017.2 The room has about 560 ft2 (52 m2) floor area (28 × except the scrubbing nurse and the back table. The air is
20 ft [8.5 × 6 m]) with 10 ft (3 m) ceiling height. As shown supplied through a single array of nine laminar flow dif-
in Figure 1 (page 15), the virtual OR has an operating table fusers (72 ft2 [6.7 m2]) located at the center of the room
with a patient, two surgeons, two nurses, anesthesiolo- ceiling. The room air is exhausted through two exhaust
gist, surgical lights, overhead lights, and several other grilles located on opposite walls and through the leak-
pieces of equipment and furniture. These are sources age openings located under the two doors. The effect of
of sensible heat and also obstructions to the airflow. supply airflow rate is analyzed by varying the diffuser

18 ASHRAE JOURNAL ashrae.org M A Y 2 0 18


TECHNICAL FEATURE

discharge air velocity from 20, 30, and 40 fpm (0.1, 0.15, FIGURE 7 Flow path of airborne particulates originating from the scrubbing nurse
and 0.2 m/s), which correspond to 15, 23, and 31 ACH, located outside the sterile zone showing entrainment of the particles back into the
sterile zone for all three ACH.
respectively. The exhaust flow rate through the exhaust
grilles was maintained lower than the supply flow rate
such that the exhaust flow rate (leakage) through the two
door openings remains at 350 cfm (165 L/s), and thus,
the room was maintained at positive pressure.
The sensible heat loads due to the occupants and the
overhead lights were assumed to be 1500 Btu/h (440 W)
and 2457 Btu/h (720 W), respectively. The total sensible
heat load due to the other equipment, including the anes-
thesia machine, screens, surgical lights, and monitors was
assumed to be 3583 Btu/h (1050 W). Thus, the total sensible
heat load in the room was assumed to be 7,540 Btu/h (2210 ACH = 15
W). The supply air temperature was set at 67°F (19.4°C)
which maintained the average room temperature at 70°F
(21°C). The supply airflow rate at 30 fpm (0.15 m/s) is in
accordance with the minimum requirements in ASHRAE
Standard 170-2017.2 This study did not analyze the transport
of moisture and resulting relative humidity in the space.
The standard k-epsilon (k-ε) turbulence model was
employed to compute the turbulent viscosity of the
air. The probable flow paths of airborne particulates
are analyzed by tracking the airflow path streamlines
released from the occupant’s faces which are probably
the most exposed skin surfaces of the surgeons. The
ACH = 23
particulates are assumed to be skin squames which are
about 10 microns in diameter.3 This analysis assumes
most of the airborne particles released from the occu-
pant’s faces would follow the flow path of the air.
Particles less than 20 microns can readily follow the flow
path of the air.4 Since the main goal of the proposed
analysis is to analyze the flow path of airborne particles,
any settling and deposition of these particulates on the
surfaces is not explicitly considered in this study.

Results and Discussion


Airflow Patterns
The analyses for three different supply airflow rates ACH = 31
show similar airflow patterns (Figure 2, page 15). In all
three cases, the air from the non-sterile zone entrains at operating table (Figure 3, page 16). However, the location
the edges of the sterile zone. While the air near the floor of this high velocity zone changes with the supply airflow
moves away from the sterile zone towards the exhaust rates.
grilles, the air in the middle and upper sections of the In the case of low airflow rate (15 ACH) the zone of high
room moves from the non-sterile zone into the ster- velocity is formed almost at the center of the sterile zone.
ile zone. Also, in all three cases the discharge air from In the case of higher airflow rates (23 and 31 ACH) the
the laminar diffusers accelerates as it approaches the zone of high velocity moves towards the outer region of

M A Y 2 0 18 ashrae.org ASHRAE JOURNAL 19


TECHNICAL FEATURE

the sterile zone. Furthermore, in the case of 31 ACH, the case of 15 ACH flow rate, the supply air maintains its ini-
zones of high velocity form on either the side of the operat- tial temperature of 67°F (19.4°C) only in the central core
ing table. These analyses indicate the entrainment of the of the sterile zone and shows significant contraction of the
surrounding air into the sterile zone occurs independent supply air jet. Such phenomenon is also reported during
of supply airflow rates, as it occurs at all three levels of the the experimental evaluation of airflow patterns in a mock
supply airflow rates. These patterns are consistent with operating room.4 Due to entrainment of the surrounding
the experimental observations from an ASHRAE Research hot air into the sterile zone, with the exception of the core
Project.4 region, the temperature at the other locations remains
higher than the supply air temperature. With increas-
Temperature Distribution ing airflow rate, as in the cases of 23 and 31 ACH, the
These analyses show temperature stratification occurs region of the sterile zone occupied by the cold supply air
at all levels of the supply airflow rates (Figure 4, page 16). increases and the extent of the contraction of the supply
Hot air accumulates near the ceiling surrounding the jet core reduces. Similarly, with increasing airflow rates,
array of laminar diffusers, while cooler air remains near as expected, the temperature gradient between the sterile
the floor. It is important to note that the temperature and non-sterile zone reduces.
difference between the supply air jet and surrounding
air near the ceiling can be much larger than the theoreti- Flow Path of Airborne Particulates
cal average temperature difference between supply air The probable flow paths of the airborne particulates are
temperatures and return air (average room temperature) analyzed for three different release locations: (1) from the
temperature. This can adversely affect the airflow pattern face of the surgeons and nurse located inside the sterile
causing entrainment of the air near the ceiling. In the zone; (2) from the face of the anesthesiologist located at

Up to 99% thermal efficiency.


No glass lining failures.
15-year corrosion warranty.
CONQUEST
Condensing Water Heater
®

• Tank and heat exchanger are made from AquaPLEX® duplex


stainless steel alloy. Fully pickle-passivated, AquaPLEX is
® immune to corrosion in potable water regardless of temperature
E N G I N E E R E D D U PL EX A LL OY and requires no lining or anodes of any type

15-year tank and • Up to 96% thermal efficiency at full-fire from 70°F to 140°F
heat exchanger • Seamless modulation improves efficiency to 99%
warranty during periods of low demand
(8 years full, 7 years
prorated)
• Electronic operator with digital temperature readouts
and plain text for status, diagnostics and 15-event
history. Includes Modbus for BAS connection
Conquest water heaters are
available from 199 to 800 MBH www.pvi.com
in tanks from 100 to 130 gallons.
Heaters are ASME stamped
for 150 psi working pressure.

20 ASHRAE JOURNAL ashrae.org M A Y 2 0 18


Duct or hood mounted thermal dispersion airflow measurement probes
Use on thermostatically controlled systems with or without an airside economizer
Designed for smaller RTU’s (≤15 tons) and OA ducts to fan coils
Advanced DCV control capability
RS-485 BACnet network connection
No B.A.S. required

GreenTrol Automation, Inc. • 156 Holly View Lane, Loris, SC 29569 • Toll Free: 877 4GNTROL (446 8765) • Internet: GreenTrol.com
TECHNICAL FEATURE

the edge of the sterile zone; and (3) from the face of the outside the sterile zone, the particulates initially move
scrubbing nurse located outside of the sterile zone. When upward toward the ceiling, and then get entrained back
the airborne particulates are released within the sterile into the sterile zone. This occurs at all three ACH rates.
zone they are readily swept out of the sterile zone without After passing through the sterile zone, they follow the
any significant entrainment (Figure 5, page 18). This pat- similar path of those particulates that originate from
tern is consistent for all three cases of the ACH. These within the sterile zone (Figure 7, page 19). After exiting the
particulates can circulate and mix with the air in the non- sterile zone, the particulates can circulate and mix with
sterile zone before exiting the OR, however, at low ACH the air in the non-sterile zone before exiting the OR.
these particles may accumulate in the non-sterile zone. It should be noted in all these cases the particles are
When the airborne particulates are released from the swept away from the critical zone surrounding the
anesthesiologist located at the outer edge of the sterile patient. However, the particulates tend to remain and
zone, they are also swept away from the sterile zone circulate in the non-sterile zone before exiting the OR,
(Figure 6, page 18). These particulates also tend to circu- which increases the probability of their entrainment into
late within the non-sterile zone before exiting the room. the sterile zone. Since the two exhaust grilles are located
In the case of the low airflow rate of 15 and 23 ACH, these in the two opposite corners of the room, the particulates
particulates may get entrained into the outer edges of take a convoluted path to eventually exit the room. During
the sterile zone, whereas in the case of the high airflow this time prior to exiting the room, these particles have
rate of 31 ACH they readily exit the OR without signifi- the opportunity to deposit on the back table located in
cant recirculation in the non-sterile zone. the non-sterile zone. This is consistent with the results of
In the final scenario, where airborne particulates previous studies.1,3,4,6 The size, location, and number of
are released from the face of a scrubbing nurse located the exhaust grilles play an important role in determining

22 ASHRAE JOURNAL ashrae.org M A Y 2 0 18


TECHNICAL FEATURE

the flow path of airborne contaminants, especially in the the exact flow rate of the recirculated air between the
non-sterile zone. Previous studies of airflow paths in the sterile and non-sterile zone. The extent of acceleration
patient room indicated that modifications in the air sup- in the centerline velocity of the supply air along the ver-
ply and return locations can significantly alter the flow tical centerline from the ceiling to the floor can provide
path of airborne contaminants.8 an indirect estimate of this entrainment. Archimedes
Number (Ar), a non-dimensional parameter, is a ratio
Analysis of Centerline Velocity of the buoyancy force and the inertial force of the down-
Hospital operating rooms are often characterized by ward air jet. The supply airflow rates of 15, 23, and 31
high sensible heat loads concentrated within a relatively ACH (discharge velocity of 20, 30, and 40 fpm [0.1, 0.15,
small sterile zone. Heat released from various equipment and 0.2 m/s]) correspond to the Ar number of 21, 6.3,
and surgical lights can cause hot air to rise locally against and 2.7, respectively. Details regarding the calculation of
the incoming cold supply air. Additionally, as described Ar are given in an ASHRAE Research report.4 Increasing
before, a zone of high temperature and thermal stratifica- the discharge velocity (increasing the mass flow rate
tion often forms surrounding the cold supply air jets. The of the supply air) reduces theoretical temperature dif-
temperature gradients between the sterile and non-ster- ference between supply and return temperature (∆T ),
ile zone can cause acceleration of the supply air jet from which in turn, results in lowering the Ar. Therefore, at
the laminar diffusers, which in turn, may promote unde- higher airflow rates the lower values of Ar indicate flow
sirable entrainment of the surrounding contaminated air dominated by inertial force.
from the non-sterile zone into the clean sterile zone. Figure 8 shows the variation of non-dimensional veloc-
Due to the recirculation pattern of the entrained air ity (a ratio of centerline velocity at a specific distance
in and out of the sterile zone, it is difficult to quantify along the vertical centerline to the discharge velocity at

M A Y 2 0 18 ashrae.org ASHRAE JOURNAL 23


TECHNICAL FEATURE

the exit of the laminar diffuser). This variation is plot- FIGURE 8 Variation of non-dimensional centerline velocity along the normalized
ted against the non-dimensional vertical distance—a distance from the laminar diffuser shows that the discharge velocity increases
as it approached the operating table. Such increase in the velocity reduces with
ratio of the height at a specific vertical location to height increasing ACH.
of the laminar diffuser from the ceiling. Thus at a non- 4.0
dimensional height of 0.0 at the laminar diffuser, the 20 fpm (15 ach)
30 fpm (23 ach)
non-dimensional centerline velocity is 1.0. This analysis 3.5
40 fpm (31 ach)
indicates for all three levels of the supply airflow rates 3.0
the centerline velocity increases as the air jet moves

Centerline Velocity (U/Ud)


downward towards the operating table. However, with 2.5
increasing supply airflow rate the relative acceleration 2.0
of the centerline velocity reduces. It shows in the case of
low 15 ACH (Ar 21) the centerline velocity reaches about 1.5

3.4 times of the initial discharge velocity at about 38% 1.0


of the vertical distance from the ceiling. Whereas in the
0.5
case of 23 ACH (Ar 6.3) and 31 ACH (Ar 2.7) it reaches
about 1.8 and 1.3 times of the respective discharge 0.0
velocities. This indicates that reducing the tempera- 0.00 0.14 0.28 0.42 0.56
Vertical Distance from the Discharge (Y/Yd)
ture gradient between the sterile and non-sterile zone
can reduce the acceleration of the supply air jet. This is
consistent with the experimental measurements of the contaminants in the hospital OR. When the particulates are
velocity profiles.4,7 It should be noted that irrespective of originated within a sterile zone or at the edge of the sterile
the supply airflow rate, the peak in the non-dimensional zone they are generally swept away into the non-sterile
velocity occurs between 36% to 38% of the vertical dis- zone where they can recirculate within the non-sterile zone
tance from the laminar flow diffuser. without significant re-entrainment. However, when such
However, such acceleration of centerline velocity does not particulates originate in the non-sterile zone, for example
provide any insights into the flow path of the particulates. from the face of a scrubbing nurse, irrespective of the sup-
Therefore, reducing the discharge velocity or Archimedes ply airflow rate, they get entrained into the sterile zone. For
Number alone may not help in minimizing the entrain- all the cases of supply airflow rates, and irrespective of the
ment of airborne particulates from non-sterile zone to origin of the release, the particulates tend to stay and cir-
sterile zone. Similar investigations for the operating room culate in the non-sterile zone before exiting the OR which
HVAC configuration may help to clarify whether such potentially can increase the probability of deposition of
modifications in HVAC configuration, especially in the these particles on the back table which is generally located
non-sterile zone, will reduce the entrainment of airborne in the non-sterile zone.
particulates from non-sterile zone into the sterile zone. This Increasing the supply airflow rates and the associated
will be presented in the second part of this study. heat capacity of the supply air helps in reducing the
thermal gradients between the sterile and non-sterile
Summary and Conclusions zone which in turn reduces the contraction of the sup-
CFD analyses of a hospital operating room are performed ply air jet, indicating the potential reduction in the
to analyze the impact of supply airflow rates or ACH entrainment of air from the non-sterile zone into the
on the airflow patterns, temperature distribution, and sterile zone. This study also indicates the velocity of the
resulting flow path of airborne particulates. Additionally, discharge air jet increases at it travels towards the oper-
the impact of supply airflow rates on the acceleration of ating table. However, such acceleration in the discharge
centerline velocity of the supply air jet was also evaluated. velocity reduces with increasing the supply airflow rate.
These analyses indicate the supply airflow rate, and High ACH can potentially reduce the overall tem-
hence, the discharge velocity of the unidirectional air jet, perature levels in the OR; reduce the thermal gradients
has a little impact on the overall airflow patterns, result- across the sterile and non-sterile zones; reduce the
ing thermal stratification, and on the flow path of airborne acceleration of the discharge air jet; and potentially

24 ASHRAE JOURNAL ashrae.org M A Y 2 0 18


Model DGX-P-MF

make-up air with a twist


Mixed flow efficiency.
Greenheck introduces mixed flow fan technology to its
MODELS
DGX and MSX comprehensive line of make-up air units. It’s an ideal
FEATURES
solution for low to medium pressure applications in
• Factory-mounted VFD commercial and industrial facilities. Models DGX and
• Various heating and MSX can now be configured with a direct drive, mixed
cooling options
• Double wall construction
flow plenum supply fan for increased energy efficiency
• Hinged access and quieter operation. With performance capabilities
• Neoprene isolation up to 16,000 cfm, the mixed flow fan option produces
APPLICATIONS multidirectional discharge options, reduces horsepower
• Manufacturing operations by up to 50% and reduces sound levels up to 8 decibels.
• Industrial facilities
• Wastewater treatment
Factory-mounted, preprogrammed variable frequency
plants drives are standard and simplify air balancing in the field.
• Warehouses
• Kitchens
• Schools See your Greenheck representative for
• Hotels
more information or visit greenheck.com
Fans | Energy Recovery | Packaged Ventilation | Make-up Air
Kitchen Ventilation | Lab Exhaust | Dampers | Louvers | Coils
© 2018 Greenheck

715.359.6171
greenheck.com
TECHNICAL FEATURE

minimize recirculation of airborne particulates in the by several members of ASHRAE Technical Committee 9.6,
non-sterile zone. However, high ACH add to the initial Healthcare Facilities. The author is thankful to Dr. Nikhil
and operating costs of OR ventilation systems and it can- Khankari, cancer epidemiologist, for reviewing the man-
not alter the overall airflow patterns and the resulting uscript and making valuable suggestions.
flow path of the airborne contaminants (including pos-
sible entrainment of airborne particulates from the non- References
sterile zone into the sterile zone). 1. Wagner, J., K. Schreiber, R. Cohen. 2014. “Using cleanroom
technology – Improving operating room contamination control.”
HVAC configuration including the size, number, and ASHRAE Journal 56(2):18–27.
locations of supply and return of the air may play a role 2. ANSI/ASHRAE/ASHE Standard 170-2017, Ventilation of Healthcare
in determining the flow path of airborne contaminants, Facilities.
3. Memarzadeh, F., A. Manning. 2002. “Comparison of operating
especially in the non-sterile zone. By altering the airflow room ventilation systems in the protection of the surgical site.”
patterns in the non-sterile zone, the flow of path of these ASHRAE Transactions 108(2).
particulates may be altered to avoid entrainment. The 4. Zhai, Z., et al. 2013. “Experimental Investigation of Hospital
Operating Room (OR) Air Distribution.” ASHRAE Research Report RP-1397.
legacy HVAC design for hospital operating rooms involv- 5. Gormley, T., et al. 2017. “Cost-benefit analysis of different air
ing a ceiling array of laminar supply diffusers and low change rates in an operating room environment.” American Journal of
wall exhaust grilles on the opposite walls needs further Infection Control 45:1318–23.
6. Gormley, T., et al. 2017. “Methodology for analyzing
evaluation to minimize the transfer of airborne particu- environmental quality indicators in a dynamic operating room
lates from non-sterile to sterile zones. environment.” American Journal of Infection Control 45:354–9.
7. Cook, G., D. Int-Hout. 2009. “Air motion control in the
hospital operating room.” ASHRAE Journal 51(3):30–36.
Acknowledgments 8. Khankari, K. 2016. Airflow Path Matters: Patient Room HVAC.
The author acknowledges valuable suggestions provided ASHRAE Journal 58 (6), 16-26.

Supermarket HVAC
New and direct replacement HVAC units built for the
Supermarket industry
For over 30 years, Seasons 4 is a leading manufacturer of Supermarket HVAC equipment offering
new and replacement units with standard features required specifically for Supermarket duty.
Hot gas reheat coils, Heat reclaim coils, Custom DDC control packages, Single and Dual Path
arrangements all provided for Supermarket dehumidification applications.

• New and direct replacements with


increased energy efficiency at full and part
load capacity that meet current 2018 DOE
requirements
• Double wall aluminum exterior that never
rusts
• Best solution for time critical applications
where stores cannot afford to be closed
any longer than necessary.
• 8 hour change out that matches existing
curb and utilities
• Fully configured solutions from 20 tons up

www.seasons4.net/AMG

26 ASHRAE JOURNAL ashrae.org M A Y 2 0 18


OVERHEAD
DISPLACEMENT
THE NEW AFL
CEILING DIFFUSER
BY KRUEGER

Realize all the benefits of


traditional displacement
ventilation -- from the ceiling.
From whisper-quiet operation to improved indoor
air quality, Krueger’s new AFL diffuser provides all the
benefits of traditional displacement ventilation in the
form of a ceiling-mounted solution. This makes it a great
choice for retrofit applications, where space in the floor
AFL: Ceiling or walls may be limited.
Mounted
Displacement For more information, contact your local
Diffuser Krueger representative or visit us on the web
at www.krueger-hvac.com.

www.krueger-hvac.com | kruegerinfo@krueger-hvac.com
TECHNICAL FEATURE

Design Requirements

HVAC and Compounding


Pharmacies
BY STEVEN M. SPELLMAN, P.E., MEMBER ASHRAE

Navigating the intricacies of the health-care industry has always been a challenging
aspect of building design, and that especially holds true for the design of compound-
ing pharmacies. Compounding pharmacies are areas that allow pharmacists to mix
and produce custom strengths, dosages, and forms of medication that are not read-
ily available off-the-shelf. As custom medications become more in demand, the need
to produce them locally within a facility is paramount to doctors and patients alike.
This allows medications to be specifically designed to a patient’s needs based on their
physical attributes, age, or medical condition.
Although the Facilities Guidelines Institute (FGI) stan- written primarily for pharmacists and, as such, the ter-
dards (inclusive of ASHRAE/ASHE Standard 170) are the minology, abbreviations, and overall language can be
most widely accepted standard for design of health-care difficult to navigate. This makes the design task more
facilities, they do not offer in-depth criteria for com- challenging for building engineers who must under-
pounding pharmacies. United States Pharmacopeia stand the environmental requirements within the USP
(USP) publishes chapters to “…provide guidance on standards. The purpose of this article is to introduce the
applying good compounding practices...”¹ that include USP standards content that correlates to HVAC design of
a wealth of information related to the art and science compounding pharmacies and offer common strategies
of compounding medications in a safe and effective for compliance.
manner. However, unlike the standards HVAC design Two primary publications of interest are USP 797
engineers are used to referencing, the USP standards “Pharmaceutical Compounding—Sterile Applications”
are not written for engineers, or any building design and USP 800 “Hazardous Drugs—Handling in
professional for that matter. The USP standards are Healthcare Settings.” USP 797 initially provided

Steven M. Spellman, P.E., is the engineering lead for the newly formed engineering department at D2 Groups LLC in King of Prussia, Pa.

28 ASHRAE JOURNAL ashrae.org M A Y 2 0 18


TECHNICAL FEATURE

ACH Air changes per hour.


BSC Biological safety cabinet. A vented cabinet used for preparation of hazardous materials.
BUD Beyond use date. The date and time until a compounded drug can no longer be administered.
CAI Compounding aseptic isolator. A glovebox type isolator for handling pharmaceutical ingredients.
C-PEC Containment Primary Engineering Control. A ventilated device that controls airborne contaminants.
Can be a LAFW, BSC or CAI.
C-SEC Containment Secondary Engineering Control. The room in which the C-PEC is placed.
ISO Class International Organization for Standardization standard for classifying clean rooms.
LAFW Laminar airflow workstation. A laminar flow type hood.
USP United States Pharmacopeia.

guidance on the handling of hazardous drugs, but a 68°F [18°C to 20°C]). Higher design temperatures and
more in-depth chapter, USP 800, was published and relative humidity levels may lead to difficult working
finalized as of Feb. 1, 2016.³ conditions for the pharmacy staff and are more prone to
There are many topics covered within USP 797 and 800 generating bacteria.
as related to methods of producing custom medications, Various layouts and arrangements of compounding
however, for purposes of this article, the focus will be pharmacies are possible, and the space requirements
maintained on the facility environmental requirements will change depending on the type of drugs being
related to HVAC design. produced; all compounding pharmacies should be
designed such that air moves from the cleanest area
Compounding Pharmacies to the dirtiest area before being removed from the
Many pharmacies compound medications, including building. The cleanest area, where the compounding
virtually all hospitals. According to the International process shall take place, is an ISO Class 5 environment,
Academy of Compounding Pharmacies (IACP), the which can be achieved inside of what the USP stan-
compounding industry now makes up $300 billion of dards refer to as a Containment Primary Engineering
the U.S. prescription market. As of this writing, USP 797 Control (C-PEC). The C-PEC is a piece of equipment
standards for these pharmacies have been adopted, and where the compounding takes place, and may be a
are enforceable, by 31 states,4 whereas 12 states have laminar airflow workbench (LAFW), biosafety cabi-
already adopted USP 800.5 Regulatory requirements for net (BSC), or compounding aseptic isolator (CAI).
these pharmacies continue to change between federal Some C-PECs may recirculate air through integral
and state authorities. Regardless of state-level adoption, HEPA filters and back to the room, or may exhaust air
many health-care providers are interested in providing directly to the outside. Air moves from the C-PEC to the
the most effective conditions possible for their com- Containment Secondary Engineering Control (C-SEC),
pounding facilities. also known as the buffer area, or the room in which the
There are multiple reasons to comply with the high- C-PEC is located. The room itself is considered an engi-
est level of standards when it comes to compounding neering control for maintaining the cleanliness stan-
drugs, including the safety of the pharmacist working dards, and, per USP standards, must maintain a mini-
on the medication and the safety of the patient receiving mum ISO Class 7. The buffer area may be connected to
the medication. Important consideration should also be an ante room, which also must maintain an ISO Class
given to the comfort level of the pharmacy staff working 7 for the production of sterile drugs (or ISO Class 8 for
within the pharmacy, as the compounding pharmacies nonsterile drugs).
require additional layers of personal protective clothing Rooms where compounding takes place are defined by
that make lower design temperatures desirable (65°F to the drugs being produced, therefore, requirements may

M A Y 2 0 18 ashrae.org ASHRAE JOURNAL 29


TECHNICAL FEATURE

change from room to room. For instance, a Sterile, Non- TABLE 1 Individual USP chapter references for various types of compounding.
hazardous Compounding room and a Sterile, Hazardous USP CHAPTER REFERENCES
Compounding room will have different pressurization CHAPTER
STERILE COMPOUNDING NON-STERILE COMPOUNDING
requirements. USP chapters to reference based on the NUMBER
HAZARDOUS NON-HAZARDOUS HAZARDOUS NON-HAZARDOUS
type of compounding can be found in Table 1. It is impor-
tant to note that when dealing with hazardous com- 795 ü ü
pounding, USP 800 does not supersede USP 797—they 797 ü ü
complement each other. 800 ü ü

Facility Environmental Requirements Air Cleanliness


Similar to cleanroom and critical environment appli- Air cleanliness is driven by the ISO classifications
cations, special consideration must be made for the for cleanrooms, which define a maximum number of
conditions of the working environment in compound- particles above a specific size allowed to be present in
ing pharmacies including: temperature, humidity, air the environment. As ISO Class numbers decrease (ISO
changes, pressurization, and air cleanliness. Each of Class 8, 7, 6…) the contamination criteria become more
these factors is discussed in more detail below. stringent. USP requires sterile compounding buffer
areas to be an ISO Class 7 space, which is achieved in
Temperature part by providing HEPA filtration. In all cases where the
USP chapters 797 and 800 do not explicitly state a tem- beyond-use date (BUD) of the compounded medication
perature criteria for compounding rooms, instead stat- is greater than 12 hours, all sterile compounding rooms
ing that a “controlled room temperature” in the range must maintain at least 30 air changes per hour (ACH).
of 68°F to 77°F (20°C to 25°C) be maintained, which is In addition, an ante room that is adjacent to a sterile
within the broad range of what is considered a condi- compounding room must also be an ISO Class 7 space to
tioned, occupiable space. However, as mentioned above, maintain the integrity of the air cleanliness within the
the additional garb worn during the compounding of compounding space. This is because the ante room may
these medications can create an undesirable working be positively pressurized to a compounding room, and it
condition, and so a lower design temperature should is important that the air being pushed into the room is
be considered. Should this be a renovation area with maintaining the same air quality, as to not contaminate
existing HVAC equipment in place, these lower design the compounding procedure.
temperatures may not be possible, and costly equipment
upgrades could be necessary. Pressurization
Control of relative pressure between rooms is impera-
Humidity tive to a well-designed compounding pharmacy. USP
Similar to the temperature requirements, USP does 800 defines ideal pressurization criteria for compound-
not define a specific relative humidity (RH%) range ing areas and anterooms as it relates to various phar-
to be maintained in compounding areas. Too little macy suite layouts. Hazardous compounding rooms
humidity can create issues with static electricity should be negatively pressurized relative to the adjacent
build up, while too much humidity can drive bacteria space; Sterile Non-hazardous Compounding Rooms
growth. The optimal range for health-care environ- should be positively pressurized to the adjacent space.²
ments is 40% to 60% RH.7 Achieving this range gener- Should an ante room be provided, it should be positively
ally requires humidification equipment, a properly pressurized to any non-classified area adjacent to it, as
sized cooling coil, and proper control techniques. Both seen in Figure 1. Values of pressurization, as measured
temperature and humidity levels must be monitored across the door to each area, can be seen in Table 2.
and documented to ensure compliance on a consistent Managing pressurization requirements is a challenging
basis. Pharmacy certifications often require docu- balance between protecting the pharmacy staff, protect-
mented data as proof of temperature and humidity ing the medicine being produced, and maintaining a
compliance. clean environment.

30 ASHRAE JOURNAL ashrae.org M A Y 2 0 18


B R E AT H E E A S Y


Choose DryCool for safer, sustainable indoors
CERTIFIED
• DOAS uses less energy to meet the FOR USE IN
requirements of ASHRAE Standards 62 SCHOOLS
SCH LS &
HOSPITALS
and 90.1
• Combines pre-cooling with active desiccant
dehumidification for greater efficiency
• Desiccant rotor is reactivated by refrigeration
waste heat to save energy
• MRE rating of 7.5 for up to 60% energy
advantage on design day versus traditional • GREENGUARD GOLD certified desiccant rotor
DX systems ensures VOCs are not emitted

REGISTER TO ATTEND ONE OF OUR SEMINARS


visit www.munterstraining.com

+1 800 843 5360 | E-mail: dhinfo@munters.com www.munters.com/MRE


TECHNICAL FEATURE

Although the USP standards may appear difficult to FIGURE 1 USP 800 Optimal Sterile Hazardous Compounding Room Layout with ISO
achieve, they are well within the abilities of modern Class 7 Ante Room, with arrows representing pressurization.
HVAC technology. As with all codes and standards, the BSC LAFW
criteria listed are recommended minimums, and indi- or or
vidual situations may require more demanding require- CACI CAI
ments to achieve ideal environmental conditions.
Buffer Ante Buffer
ISO 7 ISO 7 ISO 7
HVAC Design Negative for Positive Positive for
The goal of any HVAC system design is to provide a HDs Non-HDs
solution that meets the environmental criteria of the
space, can be provided in a cost-effective manner, and
can be adjusted to accommodate changes within the
space. There is always more than one way to accomplish
a design, but below are the common TABLE 2 USP compliant differential pressure range relationships in compounding pharmacies.
ways to handle the design criteria of PRESSURIZATION RELATIONSHIPS IN COMPOUNDING AREAS
compounding pharmacies. DP RANGE (IN. W.G.) PRESSURIZATION
Compounding pharmacies may be Hazardous, Sterile Compounding to Ante Room 0.01 to 0.03 Negative
located in outpatient buildings, hos- Hazardous, Non-Sterile Compounding to Ante Room 0.01 to 0.03 Negative
pitals, or standalone facilities and, Non-Hazardous, Sterile Compounding to Ante Room 0.02 to 0.05 Positive
therefore, the building HVAC system Non-Hazardous, Non-Sterile Compounding to Ante Room N/A N/A
available to serve the pharmacy can
Ante Room to Non-Compounding to Adjacent Space 0.02 to 0.05 Positive
vary widely. For demanding spaces
such as these, having a dedicated air-handling unit is along extensive duct runs. Fan filter units have an
a great way to eliminate many HVAC issues and ensure ECM that can automatically adjust to the filter load-
delivery of the desired conditions. However, it is not ing conditions and provide a uniform, laminar airflow
always feasible from a construction or monetary stand- into the space. They should be selected with room-side
point to provide dedicated systems to these spaces, and removable filters, such that access above the ceiling is
thus special attention must be paid to the HVAC equip- not required for filter inspection/replacement and the
ment and controls to achieve the required parameters of cleanroom environment is not contaminated. Control
the space. cards for the ECMs may come in constant torque or con-
Regardless of the availability of a dedicated air-handling stant speed models. The proper control card depends on
system, fan filter units (FFUs) are ideal solutions to pro- the system in place; a traditional VAV system should have
viding HEPA filtered air to individual rooms. The ISO a constant torque control card to avoid the air valve and
Class requirements for air cleanliness are not achievable the ECM speed controller “chasing” each other.
without HEPA filtration in the supply airstream. Supply In all sterile compounding applications, a minimum
air delivered to the compounding areas should be laminar 30 air changes of HEPA-filtered air are required with
flow and placed within the room as to provide uniform the room. This is the minimum recommended, and,
air distribution. This may be challenging as the recom- due to the relatively small nature of the compounding
mended air velocity through a FFU is 90 to 100 fpm (0.46 rooms, a higher air change rate may be provided with-
to 0.51 m/s), which could require multiple FFUs in one out having to provide an excessive amount of additional
space to achieve the required air change rates. supply air. Additionally, USP allows a room contain-
Providing HEPA filters centrally located in an AHU ing an ISO Class 5 recirculating device (as in a LAFW)
has previously been an option, but due to the difficulty to account for 15 ACH of the overall air change rate (so
of access for inspections, FFUs located within the room long as the total air changes are not less than 30), which
are the better solution. They also provide the benefit of is a great energy saving tip. Since high air change rates
being further downstream than centrally located filters, are required for these spaces, energy recovery options
and so they avoid picking up additional contaminants should be explored to save on operational costs. Energy

32 ASHRAE JOURNAL ashrae.org M A Y 2 0 18


TECHNICAL FEATURE

recovery options that do not risk mixing of the supply FIGURE 2 Areas directly surrounding the compounding area have more stringent air
and exhaust airstreams should be considered. cleanliness requirements than those further away.
Once the proper supply air is delivered, it must be
removed. Low returns/exhausts are standard in ISO
Unclassified Area
classified rooms and should be provided in compound- Ante Area ISO Class 8/7
ing areas and anterooms alike. Given the laminar air- SeC Buffer Area ISO Class 7
PEC ISO Class 5
flow pattern and potential for short cycling the supply Cleanest to DCA (Direct Compounding Area)
air, placement of the low return should be carefully Dirtiest Area
considered to ensure that tempered supply air will pass
over the room occupants before being removed from
the space. In situations where the supply air quantity is
driven by makeup air (i.e., the C-PEC or hood exhaust
airflow is larger than the supply CFM needed to achieve
the air change rate) an additional low exhaust pulling pressure differential can compromise the room’s
air from the space is recommended, such that the C-PEC cleanliness, while too large of a differential can result
is not the sole source of exhaust air in the room. This in balancing issues. It is imperative to understand that
helps achieve ideal air distribution but will also make the pressure differential is a result of the area around
room airflow balancing and pressurization easier–and the door in which the air can move from one space to
adjustable in the future! another, also known as the crack area. This area can
Exhaust airflow required will vary depending on the vary greatly depending upon the type of door, gaskets,
type of C-PEC specified to be provided. Class II BSCs door sweeps, and door installation. For a fixed crack
are common for hazardous compounding applications, area around a door, a slightly varying airflow can create
but even they vary depending on the type of BSC used; large pressure differential swings, causing the room to
Type A2, B1 and B2 Class II BSC’s all have varying exhaust go out of the desired ranges. For example, for a stan-
requirements. Additional exhaust air is required in stor- dard 3 ft (0.9 m) wide single swing door with a crack
age spaces; according to USP 800 all hazardous drugs area of 0.25 ft2 (0.02 m2), an airflow change of just 40
shall be stored in a negative pressure environment with cfm (19 L/s) will change the differential pressure across
at least 12 air changes. the door from 0.25 in. w.g. to 0.5 in. w.g. (62 Pa to 125
Harmful exhaust fumes should be exhausted in Pa),8 which, as displayed in Table 2, would be out of
accordance with code, and a redundant exhaust fan range for certain compounding rooms. A slight change
for back up is always good design practice. Should a of airflow such as this can be a result of many different
classified space lose an air source, through mechanical factors, whether it is a balancing change of an adjacent
failure or loss of power, compounding work must stop space, unintentional movement of dampers, or system
immediately, resulting in costly workflow interruptions. changes over time.
Redundant equipment and emergency generators are It is for this reason that these critical spaces be designed
recommended, but are not always feasible. to accommodate for changes in conditions, as well as for
Air valves used to control supply, return, and exhaust flexibility for potential future changes within the space.
air should be located outside of the ceiling space above the Design options such as fast acting air valves, dedicated
compounding pharmacy areas. Access for maintenance VAVs for each room, variable frequency drives on fans,
of these valves could contaminate the cleanroom and lead parameter monitoring, and digital pressurization controls
to shut-down times and requirements for re-inspection. should all be considered for compounding pharmacies.
Cleanrooms ceilings can also be of “hard” construction, Monitoring and trending data are recommended
requiring access panels, which are not conducive to clean- within the USP standards for parameters such as tem-
room environments and should be avoided. perature, humidity, and pressurization. Readings
As illustrated in Table 2, the pressurization require- should be recorded regularly and be readily accessible
ments within compounding pharmacies are required should the space need to prove compliance. Pressure
to be kept within a tight window. Too small of a monitors are specifically required between each

M A Y 2 0 18 ashrae.org ASHRAE JOURNAL 33


TECHNICAL FEATURE

compounding area to the ante area, and from the ante designers to collect all of the information and resources
area to any unclassified area. available and make the best design decisions possible.
There are many requirements listed within the USP
Conclusion standards, and they exist to provide a safer environment
Building compounding pharmacies, whether part for all. With proper design and the continued evolve-
of a new building or a renovation project, can offer ment of compounding standards, events such as the
design challenges in many different forms. It is up to 2012 New England Compounding Center meningitis
outbreak—which killed 76 people
and sickened 800—can be avoided.
Although USP chapters are becom-
ing widely accepted across the U.S., it
is important to always design around
current state and federal regulations
regarding these pharmacies. USP
has provided an updated compli-
ance date for USP 800 of Dec. 1, 2019,
which correlates with the next release
of USP 797. Existing facilities should
begin the lengthy process of updat-
ing their spaces to become compliant
with these standards, and new build-
ings should be designing with these
requirements in mind—with room to
adapt to the ever-changing future.

References
1. USP. 2016. USP Chapter 797,
Pharmaceutical Compounding—Sterile
Preparations. United States Pharmacopeia.
2. USP. 2017. USP Chapter 800,
Hazardous Drugs—Handling in Healthcare
Settings. United States Pharmacopeia
3. Page, M.R. 2016. “USP 800: Key Changes
and Additions to USP 797.” Pharmacy Times, July.
4. Kastanga, E. 2017. “Pharmacy Rules/
Regulations by State for Compliance with
USP 797 Medication Compounding.” www.
jointcommission.org/assets/1/6/Feb_2017_State_
Compounding_Regulations.pdf. February.
5. NASPA. 2017. “USP 800 State Chart.”
National Alliance of State Pharmacy
Associations. August.
6. Martinez, J.F. 2015. “How to Design
Your Compounding Cleanroom to Meet the
Standards of the FDA and State Boards of
Pharmacy.” https://tinyurl.com/ycxj9sjc.
November.
7. Sterling, E.M. 1985. “Criteria for
Human Exposure to Humidity in Occupied
Buildings.” ASHRAE Transactions 91(1).
8. ACGIH. 1986. “Air volume through
closed doors.” Industrial Ventilation Manual.
American Conference of Governmental
Industrial Hygienists.

34 ASHRAE JOURNAL ashrae.org M A Y 2 0 18


BEYOND IoT.

BEYOND AUTOMATION.

BEYOND ENERGY MANAGEMENT.

Buildings have energy coursing through their veins —


heating, cooling, lighting. This energy is full of valuable
data and insight just waiting to be translated and
deciphered. If you can hear what it’s saying, decode the
message, go beyond the building, then you can transform
the building into a place with meaning and purpose.

Trane.com/BeyondConnected

Trane, Circle Logo, AirFi and Tracer are trademarks of Trane in the United States and other countries.
All trademarks referenced in this document are the trademarks of their respective owners.

© 2018 Ingersoll Rand. All Rights Reserved.


Trane is a brand of Ingersoll Rand, a world leader in creating comfortable, sustainable and efficient environments.
Ingersoll Rand’s family of brands includes Club Car®, Ingersoll Rand®, Thermo King® and Trane®.
2018 ASHRAE TECHNOLOGY AWARD CASE STUDIES

Paving a Path for


Zero Energy Schools
Building massing, optimized mechanical systems and
rooftop PV contribute to zero energy performance.

PHOTO CREDIT LINCOLN BARBOUR PHOTO, INC. BY RAY BEAUFAIT, P.E., MEMBER ASHRAE
USED BY PERMISSION.

36 ASHRAE JOURNAL ashrae.org M A Y 2 0 18


FIRST PLACE | 2018 ASHRAE TECHNOLOGY AWARD CASE STUDIES

Discovery Elementary School in Arlington, Va., is the


nation’s largest zero energy elementary school and has
become a model for other local school districts seek-
ing to reduce their energy consumption. The two-story,
97,600 ft2 (9067 m2) school was built in 2016 for a total
occupancy of 715 teachers and students. Its name honors
astronaut John Glenn who traveled in the Discovery
space shuttle 36 years after his historic Mercury flight.
Arlington Public Schools did not goal, site constraints and desired
start with aspirations to reach zero student learning experience. This
energy. The Request for A/E Services early collaboration set expectations
Proposal was similar to the district’s for the entire design process.
previous requests. The budget The energy model indicated
matched the last school constructed, a school EUI of 21.2 kBtu/ft2·yr
and the project had a sustainability (240.8 MJ/m2·yr) based on a build-
goal of LEED Silver. ing envelope cooling load of less
The evolution of Discovery into than 50 tons (176 kW). The ventila-
the largest zero energy school in tion load was calculated at another
the U.S. demonstrates that excep- 32 tons (113 kW), resulting in a
tional outcomes can occur when building block load and final geo-
the design team and owner share a thermal ground heat exchanger
common vision to design a school designed for 133 tons (468 kW) or
that provides a better environment 731 ft2/ton (19.3 m2/kW).
for student education and a build- The five major systems that con-
ing that can be a part of the educa- sume energy in a school are HVAC,
tion process. lighting, kitchen, IT, and plug loads,

Energy Efficiency
This project was designed with the
goal of having the lowest energy con-
Building at a Glance
sumption (energy use index [EUI]), Discovery Elementary
integrating zero energy within the
budgetary cost constraints, posi-
School
tively impacting the region’s water- Location: Arlington, Va.
shed and creating an immersive Owner: Arlington Public Schools
energy dashboard linking the build-
Principal Use: K – 5 Elementary
ing and education curriculum.
Includes: Classrooms, kitchen, multipurpose gym, media
The design started with energy center, teacher breakout spaces and administration space
modeling to identify building mass-
Employees/Occupants: 715
ing. The architect provided the
engineer with multiple schematic Gross Square Footage: 97,600

sketches to determine a massing Conditioned Space Square Footage: 97,600


model that best met the energy Substantial Completion/Occupancy: June 2016

Ray Beaufait, P.E., is a principal and mechanical engi- Occupancy: 100%


neer with CMTA Inc., in Louisville, Ky.

M A Y 2 0 18 ashrae.org ASHRAE JOURNAL 37


2018 ASHRAE TECHNOLOGY AWARD CASE STUDIES

so strategies were developed to reduce energy consump- TABLE 1 Electrical use and generation, and net energy use for 2016 – 2017.
tion of each. Electrical Electrical Net Energy
Month Use Generation Use
(MWh) (MWh) (MWh)
HVAC June 30.1 62.2 (32.1)
A ground source heat pump system (GSHP) was
July 32.7 59.4 (26.7)
provided with variable speed heat pump units and a
August 40.8 58.8 (18.0)
single dedicated outdoor air system (DOAS). Emphasis

2016
September 29.6 47.9 (18.3)
was placed on “right sizing” the heat pump units dur-
October 39.8 44.6 (4.8)
ing the design phase. One heat pump unit serves two
classrooms to maximize efficiency and reduce main- November 29.4 30.0 (0.6)
tenance and construction cost. The water pumping December 43.6 23.2 20.4
system was also distributed with an individual water January 43.7 19.7 24.0
pump at each heat pump. All heat pump units were February 41.3 33.5 7.8

2017
installed in mechanical rooms or closets to allow easier March 42.0 47.5 (5.5)
maintenance access and proper sound attenuation. April 32.0 58.0 (26.0)
A single DOAS unit was installed to serve the entire May 36.8 58.6 (21.8)
school, taking full advantage of building occupant Totals 441.8 543.4 (101.6)
diversity. This resulted in reduced first cost (by pro-
viding smaller equipment and system tonnage). The building instead of traditional steel piping, reducing
DOAS unit airflow is varied based individual room CO2 the first cost of the piping system (even with one size
measurements. larger piping).
The building has 38% glazing, but the solar heat gain
was controlled through building orientation, large Lighting
canopies and external solar shading devices. The exte- The thermal envelope and lighting systems were
rior wall system is insulated concrete forms (ICF), and designed to abundantly light the school with glare-
Discovery is the first school in the district to use an ICF free natural lighting and reduce the need for artificial
system. The building was air pressure tested to avoid lighting. Shortly after occupancy, the principal called
undesired air infiltration. the architect and informed him the school lost power
The designers worked together with the school dis- for several hours, but teachers were able to continue
trict to eliminate the central pumps and associated teaching because the natural lighting strategies were
variable-frequency drive units, using a distributive so successful. All interior and exterior lighting is LED.
pumping concept. Each heat pump unit has an indi- The interior lighting has a power density of 0.44 W/ft2
vidual water pump to recirculate the water through the (4.7 W/m2). Daylighting control strategies were limited
entire geothermal water loop, including the well field. to those required by codes.
The water pump will not operate unless its respective
heat pump unit is in operation. This ensures variable Kitchen
water flow. Two primary strategies were used to reduce kitchen
The closed loop piping system was designed to mini- energy use: reduce the size/type of the kitchen range
mize the water pressure drop in the geothermal pip- hood and use equipment that more efficiently cooks
ing system. Typical design using fundamental veloci- food. The kitchen is the district’s first to use combi ovens
ties results in a typical loop pressure drop of 75 ft (23 and a tilting skillet to prepare food. As a result, a smaller
m) total developed head (TDH), while Discovery’s loop type two range hood was installed, greatly reducing
pressure drop was 35 ft (11 m) TDH. To accomplish makeup/exhaust air requirements.
this reduced pressure drop requires the mains in the
building to be increased one pipe size. The geother- IT and Plug Loads
mal piping distribution uses high density polyeth- Discovery is a wireless school using all tablets and lap-
ylene (HDPE) piping (interior and exterior) in the top computers, which reduces energy use. The server

38 ASHRAE JOURNAL ashrae.org M A Y 2 0 18


VENTILATE WITH
RENEWAIRE DOAS ERVs
PROVIDE HEALTHY AND GREEN BUILDINGS FOR STUDENTS

Wellness Benefits
Lower C0 2 levels
SCHOOL
u

to improve
cognitive function
u
Boost productivity
Children in u
Reduce acute and
classrooms with chronic health problems
higher ventilation u
Reduce absenteeism
rates score better
in math and reading.*

CHECK OUT
Energy Savings
RETURNS u
Reduce HVAC loads
u
Decrease HVAC energy
costs up to 65%
u
Generate annual HVAC
energy savings
u
Maximize ROI with
short payback
Standardized test
scores can increase
by 10% when
ventilation rates
are doubled.*

*
“Frequently Asked Questions about Improved Academic Performance,” U.S. Environmental Protection Agency (EPA), https://www.epa.gov/iaq-schools/frequently-asked-questions-about-improvd-academic-
performance#IAQIAP_Maintenance.

Read our white paper RenewAire.com


on deficient IAQ in 800.627.4499
hospitals and schools:
http://bit.ly/1TpSBoZ
2018 ASHRAE TECHNOLOGY AWARD CASE STUDIES

PHOTO CREDIT: DIGITAL IMAGING & DESIGN, INC. USED BY PERMISSION.


PHOTO 1 Discovery Elementary, which opened in 2016, is the nation’s largest zero energy school. The 97,600 ft2 school is Arlington (Virginia) Public Schools’ first zero energy project.

room is designed to allow for night shutdown of the standing seam roofs were integrated into the low slope
servers. Convenient teacher break rooms are provided roofs to increase panel mounting efficiency. Also, roof-
so individual classroom refrigerators, coffee makers and top HVAC equipment was avoided, except for exhaust
microwaves can be eliminated. All domestic hot water fans and daylighting devices. The PV system generated
generation outside the kitchen is via instantaneous 543.4 MWh of electrical energy in the measured year,
water heater devices. The kitchen water heating uses which is approximately 23% more than the energy con-
a central system for 140°F (60°C) water where the first sumed, and returned 101.6 MWh of energy to the electri-
stage of heat is solar thermal. cal grid.

Power Monitoring Operation and Maintenance


The power monitoring systems measure the energy The geothermal HVAC system performs exceptionally
consumed in each of these five energy consuming sys- well with regard to energy. It also offers operation and
tems and creates daily, weekly, monthly or yearly trends maintenance (O&M) advantages since it eliminates cen-
for measurement and verification. This information is tral plant chillers, boilers, cooling towers and pumping
incorporated into the curriculum integration system systems, all of which require external service contracts.
for use in teaching and learning. Twelve months of In the event of a heat pump unit failure, only a single
utility invoices and power monitoring data are shown zone has its environment impacted.
in Table 1. The building is consuming 16.4 kBtu/ft2·yr Design strategies to simplify O&M include:
(186.2 MJ/m2·yr) of energy and is the best performing • The DOAS unit was selected with a 2-pipe coil in lieu
school in the district. of internal refrigerant compressors. A single water-to-
water heat pump chiller provides the source of chilled or
Zero Energy hot water.
The building is equipped with a 500 kW solar • The DOAS unit includes heat recovery and central
photovoltaic system (Photo 1) that is completely roof exhaust to minimize the use of roof-mounted exhaust
mounted. The design team’s preference was to roof fans.
mount all the solar PV panels and avoid costly park- • All HVAC equipment is located in mechanical rooms
ing shade structures or ground-mounted systems that instead of being roof mounted or located above ceilings
would limit student recreation areas. The roof area was to ease maintenance and extend equipment life. All
oriented to the south, and the building stepped higher heat pump units are on 12 in. (305 mm) stands to make
to the north to avoid any undesired shading. Metal service easier.

40 ASHRAE JOURNAL ashrae.org M A Y 2 0 18


2018 ASHRAE TECHNOLOGY AWARD CASE STUDIES

• All heat pump units have custom air filter frames


that use 24 in. × 24 in. (610 mm × 610 mm) filters only.

PHOTO CREDIT LINCOLN BARBOUR PHOTO, INC., USED BY PERMISSION.


The number of filters change with cfm.
• All unitary controls were installed on the front of
the unit.
• The geothermal piping distribution uses HDPE
piping (interior and exterior) in the building instead of
traditional steel piping, reducing chemical treatment.

Indoor Air Quality and Thermal Comfort


The variable flow DOAS (Photo 2) provides outdoor
air to all spaces in compliance with ASHRAE Standard
PHOTO 2 A single DOAS unit was installed to serve the entire school, taking full
62.1-2007. Discharge air temperature is maintained at advantage of building occupant diversity. This resulted in reduced first cost (by pro-
68°F (20°C), slightly colder than room temperature, viding smaller equipment and system tonnage).
and is partially dehumidified through the use of face
and bypass dampers on the chilled water coil. The additional benefit of the cooling capacity matching the
single, variable flow unit tracks student movements building and occupant load. The many hours operating
through CO2 sampling and adjusts the outdoor air at lower speed provides the added benefit of reducing
(OA) flow to each space in response to occupancy via the overall building humidity.
variable air volume boxes in the OA ductwork. All CO2
sensing results are trended by the direct digital control Innovation
and creates an alarm for high CO2 levels. As research While many aspects of this project can be consid-
continues to evolve on the effect of indoor air quality ered innovative, including a solar lab where students
and student cognition, the setpoints for the system can experiment with solar PV, the immersive curriculum
be changed to accurately reflect best practices. integration program is the most innovative aspect of
This project uses multiple geothermal heat pumps to this project. After the Discovery Elementary contract
condition all occupied areas of the building. This decen- was awarded, the owner interviewed several dashboard
tralized approach allows excellent thermal comfort in providers and none could satisfactorily integrate STEM-
each zone. Rooms with similar envelope, people, light based learning opportunities into the dashboard, so
and equipment loads have been grouped together in they turned to the designers for help. The designers
distinct zones so temperature can be controlled effec- developed an engineer’s solution to a better building
tively. The HVAC is designed to condition the space per energy dashboard. It is an engaging and interactive vir-
ASHRAE Standard 55-2004. Several typical areas of the tual reality experience that reinforces core content by
building were analyzed based on Figure 5.2.1.1 from linking teachers to live data as well as STEM, energy and
ASHRAE Standard 55-2010 by demonstrating acceptable sustainability examples throughout the school.
indoor comfort conditions throughout the school. Erin Russo, the principal of Discovery, speaks about
The design team chose variable speed compressor heat its impact, “The dashboard recreates the experience of
pump units to increase system efficiency. During part- watching a zero energy school come to life for those new
load operating conditions, a reduced speed compressor cohorts of students. Teachers use the dashboard to cre-
unit will operate more efficiently than a single-stage ate complex learning opportunities. They ask students
compressor unit. Full-load operating efficiencies occur to solve, critically think and research aspects of the
infrequently. Trending of the compressor operation for dashboard. Giving students a portal to the inner work-
the first year indicated most of the units were operat- ings of their school creates pride and a sense of collective
ing below 50% for a majority of the hours of operation. responsibility for their environment.”
The part-load efficiency of the heat pump units is three
times more efficient than full-load efficiency. The Cost Effectiveness
variable speed heat pump operation also provides the The district’s budget for this project was $249/ft2

M A Y 2 0 18 ashrae.org ASHRAE JOURNAL 41


2018 ASHRAE TECHNOLOGY AWARD CASE STUDIES

($2680/m2) plus a site cost of $295,000/acre ($728 958/ha). Environmental Impact


The low bid accepted was $32,305,000, including the Discovery‘s PV system positively affects air quality
solar PV system and was significantly under the design since all energy consumed is produced via renewable
budget of $36,257,000. (The budget was based upon the energy, with surplus returned to the grid. The environ-
last middle school built and only included a LEED Silver mental impact of this project results in a reduction in
goal.) The design team challenged the sustainability goal greenhouse gas emissions equivalent to 1,021,000 fewer
and collaborated to design a zero energy school that could miles driven by a passenger car. CO2 emissions were
be delivered within budget while meeting the energy reduced by the equivalent of 456,000 lb (206 838 kg) of
goals and prioritizing education. A cost-shifting approach coal burned or 417 metric tons of CO2.
was developed that examined all energy performance
improvements in terms of the return on investment with Conclusion
respect to the solar PV system. Just as John Glenn helped pave the way to space
An example of this cost shifting approach was the large exploration, Discovery Elementary is paving a path for
glass wall system in the cafeteria. It provided great views other districts in the region to follow. The energy suc-
to the outdoors, but would reduce the thermal enve- cess story has shown other local school districts they
lope’s effectiveness. Designers investigated the cost of can construct zero energy schools. Several schools in
triple pane glass and compared that cost to adding addi- Virginia and Maryland are now attempting zero energy.
tional PV panels. The results were the triple pane glass The Arlington Public School district has been so pleased
would cost $109,000 extra, while the additional solar PV with Discovery Elementary’s zero energy results that
panels just $9,000; therefore, it was more cost-effective new RFPs for A/E services now include zero energy as a
to invest in the additional PV. prerequisite.

By retrofitting your facility with


Industrial Retrofit Solutions the proper makeup air, exhaust
That Optimize Your IAQ replenishment, and filtration, you
can better manage your indoor
air quality and ensure a healthy
and safe working environment
for your team.

To schedule a meeting, simply go to:


www.cambridge-eng.com
and click on this icon:

Superior Heating and Ventilating


Solutions for Industrial Retrofit.
S-Series HTHV Heaters • SA-Series HTHV Heaters • M-Series Makeup-Air Units

42 ASHRAE JOURNAL ashrae.org M A Y 2 0 18


MEET ZOOMLOCK
TM

FLAME-FREE
REFRIGERANT FITTINGS

10 SECONDS. CONNECTED.

MAKE MONEY USING

• Ten-Second Leak-Proof
Refrigerant Fitting
• 40 - 60% time and cost savings
per job
• No brazing. No flame. No fire
watch required.
• Only available at Parker and
Sporlan distributors.

Visit www.parker.com/zoomlock to calculate how much money ZoomLock Flame-Free


Refrigerant Fittings will put on your bottom line and to get a free 10-second demo. Labor and
time saving solutions from Parker Sporlan - helping your business win MORE business.™

parker.com/zoomlock
TECHNICAL FEATURE

For Better Performance—


Measure Against the Best
BY CATHY CECERE

With GDP growing and remaining positive (Figure 1), U.S. architects expect a healthy
2018 for themselves, engineers, and construction. In fact, this year, the Architecture
Billing Index (ABI) came in with the highest score for January since 2007. With the
construction industry growing slowly, but steadily for the past eight years, industry
executives are expecting that 2018 will be another good year for design firms.
Those firms that will take advantage of the rising tide FIGURE 1 United States Real GDP: Percent change from preceding quarter. Source:
of optimism and investment will do so by managing U.S. Department of Commerce, Bureau of Economic Analysis
well, measuring performance and making strategic 6
5
decisions to optimize performance in such key areas as
Percent Change

4
labor costs, profitability, and revenue. 3
2
1
Financial Performance and Success 0
When PSMJ Resources, Inc., examines those firms Ð1
Q1 Q2 Q3 Q4 | Q1 Q2 Q3 Q4 | Q1 Q2 Q3 Q4 | Q1 Q2 Q3
that participate in its annual A/E Financial Performance 2014 2015 2016 2017
Benchmark Survey, it determines high performance
(HP) using 13 key performance metrics (See some of the success and consistency that allow for:
13 in Table 1). What PSMJ finds is that HP cuts across all • Competitive compensation;
sizes and practices with these firms reporting nearly • A winning culture; and
twice the profit—nearly 32% on net revenues—compared • Loyal client base.
to the overall industry, which reported a median profit
of almost 15% in 2017. Where We Stand
These firms report that fundamentals are important. With 2017 complete, we now have a chance to look at
They seek growth but do so with sustained profitability. the numbers and how well the industry is doing com-
They are able to achieve this by performing the funda- pared to 2016 and PSMJ’s Circle of Excellence firms’
mental tasks of running a firm well. Leaders of HP firms data. The tables and figures that follow report the
fastidiously monitor and measure performance. They median for each metric (Table 1).
keep their eyes on key results. Moreover, HP firms’ pro- Data shows the industry is stable overall, but
cesses, systems, and practices lead to a level of sustained outcomes are not compelling. Revenues and

Cathy Cecere is content director for PSMJ in Newton, Mass.

44 ASHRAE JOURNAL ashrae.org M A Y 2 0 18


TECHNICAL FEATURE

profits continue to rise faster than TABLE 1 Comparison of key indicators to 2016 and Circle of Excellence.
expenses and labor costs. And MEDIANS 2016 2017 PERCENT CHANGE COE
firms are continuing to experi- Net Revenues Per Total Staff* $138,352 $139,181 1% $167,103
ence growth. In contrast, when we Net Revenues Per Direct Labor Hour $110.15 $110.20 0% $127.08
examine HP firms, we find that
Direct Labor Costs Per Direct Labor Hour $35.03 $35.57 2% $36.02
these organizations are able to
Total Costs Per Direct Labor Hour $90.00 $90.47 1% $82.58
move the needle and will be able to
Equity Per Total Staff $35,298 $35,546 1% $55,406
take advantage of a hot economy.
Operating Profits (EBBT) Percent Net Revenues* 16.23% 14.97% –8% 31.90%
Indeed, HP firms’ achievements
Operating Overhead Rate (Before Incentive/Bonus)* 157.01% 156.23% –1% 129.03%
are striking when compared to
median performance: Labor Utilization Rate (Payroll Dollars)* 59.84% 59.73% 0% 65.98%

• Significantly higher net Backlog Change 10.00% 10.00% — 16.73%


revenue: Gross Revenues Change* 9.00% 8.66% — 20%
• Nearly $28,000 more per total Staff Size Change* 4.91% 4.65% –5% 9.25%
staff; and Net Direct Labor Multiplier (Achieved)* 3.09 3.06 –1% 3.40
• Nearly $17 more per direct Average Work-in-Process Days 15.29 18.28 20% 18.48
labor hour. Accounts Receivable Collections (Days)* 69.92 70.38 1% 63
• Overhead rate is more than 27% *Some of the 13 key performance metrics used to select PSMJ’s Circle of Excellence
lower than the industry median; (COE) firms. COE firms are the top performing 20% of architectural or engineering firms
participating in the survey.
• Growth in revenue, more than
double the median at 20%; and FIGURE 2 Direct labor benchmark trend. Source: PSMJ’s 2017 A/E Financial
• Growth in staff, almost double the median at over 9%. Performance Benchmark Survey Report.

A detailed historical comparison of several of these $120 Profit


key financial indicators is provided in Figure 2 and $100
Table 2.
$80
Overhead
Compensation Trends $60
For the past 34 years, PSMJ Resources, Inc., has con-
$40
ducted a management compensation survey that solicits
data from both engineering and architectural firms for $20
Direct Labor
18 management positions, from chairman of the board $0
to project manager. Historical total compensation is pre- 2005 2006 2007 2008 2009 2010 2011 2012 2013 2014 2015 2016 2017
sented in Table 3 for the past five years. Net Revenue Per DLH Direct Labor Costs Per DLH
Total compensation reached a five-year high in  Break-Even Costs
2009/2010 just before the recent recession, and profit
was at an all-time high as well at TABLE 2 Comparison of key financial indicators 2012 to 2017.
15.2% of net revenue. Total com- MEDIANS 2017 2016 2015 2014 2013 2012
pensation fell to a five-year low in
Net Revenues Per
2011/2012 for most positions, and Direct Labor Hour $110.20 $110.15 $107.78 $103.95 $101.66 $100.32
profit was less than 10% from 2010 Direct Labor Costs Per $35.57 $35.03 $34.68 $33.84 $31.90 $31.31
through 2012. While total direct Direct Labor Hour
compensation for the majority of Total Costs Per Direct $90.47 $90.00 $89.55 $87.91 $86.50 $88.73
Labor Hour
senior-level roles (chairman of the
Operating Profit 14.97% 16.23% 14.28% 12.97% 11.42% 9.31%
board, CEO, COO, etc.) have finally
Source: PSMJ’s 2017 A/E Financial Performance Benchmark Survey Report
recovered to 2009 numbers, the
results are a mixed bag. And although it is true that and exceed pre-recession total compensation amounts
production-focused positions continue to increase (department head, senior project manager, and project

M A Y 2 0 18 ashrae.org ASHRAE JOURNAL 45


TECHNICAL FEATURE

TABLE 3 Historical total direct compensation results. TABLE 4 Historical billing rate results.
MEDIANS 2017 2016 2015 2014 2013 MEDIANS 2017 2016 2015 2014 2013

Chairman of the Board $205,293 $213,750 $191,772 $201,392 $215,000 Chairman of the Board $220 $210 $203 $205 $197
Chief Executive Officer 250,000 250,000 235,812 236,700 265,342 Chief Executive Officer 215 205 200 198 200
COO/Executive VP 213,017 231,559 206,845 206,560 203,913 COO/Executive VP 200 190 185 180 185
Senior VP/ 201,120 199,917 183,748 185,645 198,674 Senior VP/ 200 195 195 190 195
Senior Principal Senior Principal
Other Principals/ 159,723 157,500 146,750 144,000 145,000 Other Principals/ 190 185 180 180 186
Partners Partners
CFO/Director of 171,000 180,000 176,250 159,968 175,000 CFO/Director of 177 175 160 153 160
Finance Finance
Controller 104,500 107,000 100,060 100,000 100,807 Controller 100 100 92 100 97

Business Manager 83,308 75,344 80,986 64,745 78,972 Business Manager 96 85 73 73 105

Director of BIM 96,665 N/A N/A N/A N/A Director of BIM 145 N/A N/A N/A N/A
Services Services

Director of Operations 147,585 141,500 163,500 137,750 146,000 Director of Operations 160 165 174 171 175

Director of BD 153 175 163 165 160


Director of BD 140,186 139,213 133,000 119,000 135,229
Director of Marketing 123 95 105 127 N/A
Director of Marketing 98,986 91,250 95,746 94,000 N/A
Director of Human 105,000 108,730 97,500 97,314 102,231 Director of Human 110 152 110 115 112
Resources Resources
Director of IT/ 106,650 110,100 104,001 104,257 104,589 Director of IT/ 125 120 125 130 117
Computer Ops. Computer Ops.
Branch Office Manager 127,625 132,736 130,115 123,513 125,521 Branch Office Manager 175 165 165 165 164
Department Head 126,889 121,985 124,163 123,355 120,000 Department Head 170 153 159 165 157

Senior Project Manager 115,382 111,708 106,823 103,537 102,000 Senior Project Manager 160 154 150 150 144
Project Manager 94,276 91,748 86,000 82,035 78,285 Project Manager 136 130 130 126 122
Source: PSMJ’s 2017 A/E Management Compensation Survey Source: PSMJ’s 2017 A/E Management Compensation Survey
Report Report

manager), so far, firms have been able to keep most sala- expenses are holding steady. Compensation (while
ries in check. mixed between management and production positions)
(PSMJ Resources, Inc., does not report compensation and billing has essentially caught back up to pre-reces-
rates for HP firms, but note that total costs per direct sion rates. The financial position of the A/E industry,
labor hour are less than the 2017 median.) as interpreted through various financial metrics, is
positive.
Bill Rate Trends But HP firms alone demonstrate what is possible
Examining the 2017 results, billing rates seem to still be in the A/E markets. In this environment, those firms
rising (Table 4). Many of the senior-level roles (COO and that follow the leaders and benchmark for best
senior VP) are coming closer to fully recover pre-recession performance will find they are better able to take
rates, while more production-orientated positions (senior advantage of the upward movement of the economy.
project manager, project manager) exceeded pre-reces- Firm leaders that step back and do the fundamen-
sion rates as early as 2012 and are still growing. tals well will sustain success for the firm and their
clients.
Compete Through Performance If you are interested in PSMJ’s 2018 benchmark survey
The achieved direct labor multiplier of 3.06 is hold- reports, you can find out more at: https://www.psmj.
ing close to target—net revenues are increasing and com/benchmark-surveys.

46 ASHRAE JOURNAL ashrae.org M A Y 2 0 18


Lower costs and PUE with Taco’s Mission Critical Rated Solutions

The need for Efficiency has never been greater. What Taco Mission Critical Solutions can do for
The power density of data centers is growing expo- your bottom line.

nentially. Combined with rising energy costs, the Taco Comfort Solutions helps data center owners
need for more efficient, liquid cooling designs are optimize their liquid cooling systems by providing
front and center. Mission Critical Rated products engineered to
decrease maintenance costs and PUE.
– Liquid cooled data center solutions
– Dielectric fluid compatible
Upgraded materials of construction for increased
– Optimizes chiller performance to improve
efficiency and longevity.
data center efficiency
– Stainless steel construction Stainless steel construction assures long-lasting,
trouble-free performance. Visit tacocomfort.com for
more information.
2018 ASHRAE TECHNOLOGY AWARD CASE STUDIES

Passive Strategies
Drive Library Design
The library sits at the entrance of a large park, and its
natural resources were integral to the design concept.

BY LIANNE COCKERTON, P. ENG. ASSOCIATE MEMBER ASHRAE; MARTIN ROY, P. ENG.,


ASSOCIATE MEMBER ASHRAE

48 ASHRAE JOURNAL ashrae.org M A Y 2 0 18


SECOND PLACE | 2018 ASHRAE TECHNOLOGY AWARD CASE STUDIES

Passive use of the sun, ground and wind are at the heart
of a new Quebec library design. Solar energy is priori-
tized, and all outdoor air is supplied through an earth
channel (passive geothermal). In addition, natural
ventilation is used for about half the library’s open hours
each year. These and other strategies resulted in an
energy savings of 42% compared to the ASHRAE/IESNA
Standard 90.1-2007 reference building.
The Raymond-Lévesque library The building’s earth channel takes
in Saint Hubert, Quebec, provides advantage of the fairly constant tem-
designated areas for people at all life perature of the ground to provide
stages and a platform for learning some preconditioning of the ventila-
and intergenerational exchanges tion air—preheating in the winter or
within the community. Its program precooling in the summer. The air
offers traditional library services, then passes through a 70% efficient
access and dissemination of new heat exchanger with a glycol heating
technologies as well as a wide range and cooling coil.
of public activities. Displacement ventilation is used
The library includes reading for the mechanical distribution of
spaces, bookshelves, administra- the air in the library, reducing the
tive offices, computer rooms and a flow of outdoor air while main-
mechanical room. taining optimum air quality and
comfort.
Energy Efficiency The project prioritizes solar energy
As part of an integrated design in its passive form (orientation,
process, several energy models were natural lighting and choice of a
performed. The information gained
with these energy models allowed
the design team to understand the
Building at a Glance
impacts of each decision. Software
allowed the team to optimize all
Raymond-Lévesque
design elements such as natural Public Library
ventilation, natural lighting, the Location: Saint Hubert, Quebec, Canada
geothermal system, the building
Owner: City of Longueuil
envelope, etc.
The integrated design process was Principal Use: Public library

the genesis to the construction of Includes: Reading spaces, bookshelves, administrative


offices, multipurpose exhibition room, computer rooms and
a building that saves 646,000 kWh mechanical room
annually compared to the ASHRAE
Employees/Occupants: 650 visitors per day
Standard 90.1-2007 reference
building. Gross Square Footage: 42,894

Conditioned Space Square Footage: 42,894


Lianne Cockerton, P.Eng., is a mechanical design engi- Substantial Completion/Occupancy: 2011
neer, and Martin Roy, P.Eng., LEED Fellow, is president
at Martin Roy et Associés in Deux-Montagnes, QC, Occupancy: 100%
Canada.

M A Y 2 0 18 ashrae.org ASHRAE JOURNAL 49


2018 ASHRAE TECHNOLOGY AWARD CASE STUDIES

59°F
Winter Summer
77°F
68°F
68°F
80.6°F
Displacement Radiant Floor Displacement of Low Speed Air
of Low
Speed Air

FIGURE 1 When solar resources are insufficient or if cooling needs are greater than the cooling capacity of the passive geothermal (earth channel), a geothermal field with a
capacity of 150 kW provides more than 80% of heating needs (in reality it provides close to 100% of heating needs) and 100% of air-conditioning needs.

high-performance glass) while obscuring thermal gains


during cooling.
Radiant Heating
When solar resources are insufficient or if the cooling
needs are greater than the cooling capacity of the passive
geothermal (earth channel), a geothermal field (Figure
1) with a capacity of 150 kW provides more than 80% of Boiler
heating needs and 100% of air-conditioning needs. The
remaining heating load is met with three natural gas boil- Geothermal
Heat Pump
ers. Heating is provided to each space through radiant
floors equipped with variable speed distribution pumps.
The geothermal heat pump system consists of three
headers (Figure 2): one cold (45°F [7.2°C]), one hot (120°F
[48.9°C]) and a tempered geothermal. This configura- Cooling
tion produces hot and cold water at all times. The geo-
thermal system alone saves 144,191 kWh annually, which
represents 28% of the energy savings in the building. FIGURE 2 The geothermal heat pump system consists of three headers: one cold
(45°F), one hot (120°F) and a tempered geothermal. This configuration produces hot
Motorized openings give the building natural ventilation and cold water at all times.
of the spaces almost 50% of the library’s yearly open hours
(approximately 1,874 hours). The result is users have con- FIGURE 3 Building energy consumption.
tact with the large natural park that surrounds the library.
6,000
When the windows are open, the cooling systems are shut Natural Gas Electricity
down in certain zones, and the fans supplying outdoor 5,000
air have less operating time, further contributing to the 4,000
building’s energy savings. The annual energy savings due
kWh

3,000
to natural ventilation is estimated at 27,850 kWh.
The energy-saving and visual comfort criteria included 2,000
in ASHRAE/IESNA Standard 90.1-2007 and IESNA stan- 1,000
dards form the basis for lighting design. The lighting 0
is high-performance T5-HO and is controlled via relay Feb Mar Apr May Jun Jul Aug Sep Oct Nov Dec Jan
2016 2017
panels. All zones can be controlled separately or together,

50 ASHRAE JOURNAL ashrae.org M A Y 2 0 18


2018 ASHRAE TECHNOLOGY AWARD CASE STUDIES

Window Fans

FIGURE 4 Building ventilation is done by convection through the space (passing from a window at the bottom of the external wall to another located within the perimeter), increas-
ing the effectiveness of natural ventilation.

from a single office to a complete sector of shelving.


In 2016, the total energy consumption for the build-
ing (Figure 3, page 51) was 627,840 kWh of electricity and
529.7 ft3 (15 m3) of natural gas.

Innovation
Although libraries of the 1940s and 1950s had windows
that opened, the Raymond-Lévesque library is unique
among its contemporaries with its automated natural
ventilation system (Figure 4) designed in connection with
FIGURE 5 To improve the quality of air inside the library as well as occupant comfort,
the architecture to position the openings. displacement ventilation was implemented. This type of ventilation creates a cleaner,
The layout, the general shape of the building—a “C” higher-quality air zone for the occupant when compared to traditional air supply
shape on the ground floor and an “O” shape on the first methods.
floor—and the slopes of the roof were all designed to use
the natural components of the site (prevailing wind,
solar orientation, accumulation of rainwater in a central
basin in the courtyard, etc.). The shape and position of
the building in relation to prevailing winds gives rise to
additional opportunities for natural ventilation, increas-
ing the number of hours (on a yearly basis) where win-
dows can be opened.
The openings (windows and grids connected to ducts
to the outside) open and close automatically.
Another innovation is the use of the kickplate under
the bookshelves that has been specially designed to dis- FIGURE 6 Underfloor air distribution was chosen to enable displacement ventilation.
tribute air by displacement (Figures 5 and 6). This integra-
tion was studied so the perforated area of the kickplate Air Quality
was optimized to respect displacement patterns and To ensure the best air quality, the heat recovery ven-
flows using airflow models. tilators are fitted with high efficiency filters, and CO2
As the first design competition to be carried out using sensors are installed in strategic areas to regulate the
an integrated design process in Quebec, the engineering required fresh air intake. The relative humidity is main-
elements (radiant floors, built-in motorized floor damp- tained by a vapor humidifier inserted in the fresh air
ers, integrated ventilation under the shelves, etc.) were ducts, as well as humidity sensors installed strategically
seamlessly integrated into the architecture and into the in the building.
construction process. The humidity and temperature setpoints were set using

52 ASHRAE JOURNAL ashrae.org M A Y 2 0 18


Solving Low
Delta T
Leveraging IoT

Belimo Energy Valve™


The Belimo Energy Valve is now an Internet of Things (IoT) device. A smart connected pressure independent
valve that utilizes powerful cloud-based computing to analyze system data, further optimizing performance,
and efficiency. This technologically advanced valve integrates many useful features such as Energy
Measurement, Glycol Monitoring, and Delta T Control all into one easy to use device.

No other valve compares. Discover all the advantages at belimo.us


2018 ASHRAE TECHNOLOGY AWARD CASE STUDIES

ASHRAE Standard 55-2004. One challenge met by the


Ceiling
design team was how to choose the clo level in the spaces Plenum
since the employees are dressed for a typical office work-
day, while the occupants may be arriving to the library CO2 T
Second
wearing winter jackets, for example. In the end, the Floor
owner and the design team decided to use the values clos-
est to clo levels of the employees since visitors always have T
the option to remove clothing, and the employees are the 55°F 63°F
Recirculated FC
ones using the space all day. The met (metabolic rates) Air
VAV VAV 78°F
were similar for visitors and employees, between 1.0 and BPF
Ceiling Fresh Air
1.2 for people mostly sitting quietly or standing relaxed, Plenum VAV
per Normative Appendix A-Activity level of the Standard. 78°F
Fresh Air BPF
When exterior conditions allow, the hybrid ventilation VAV 55°F
system is activated (Figure 4), combining mechanical and Recirculated Air FC
natural ventilation. This optimizes fresh air renewal and 78°F
T
distribution. Air is supplied via variable air volume (VAV) CO2 T
63°F
boxes connected to CO2 sensors distributed throughout Ground
Floor
the library. Thirty-three percent of the floor area is less P P
than 23 ft (7 m) from a motorized opening or an operating 63°F
window, and as ventilation is done by convection through Fresh Air
SF
space (passing from a window at the bottom of the exter- Basement
nal wall to another located within the perimeter) the EF Stale Air
effect of natural ventilation is increased. Heat Exchanger
A great deal of attention was given to the quality of FIGURE 7 Displacement ventilation is used for mechanical distribution of air, reduc-
the air inside the library as well as occupant comfort. ing the flow of outdoor air while maintaining optimum air quality and comfort. Air is
Another strategy implemented to improve these param- recirculated to dehumidify supply air (55°F) and maintain the supply temperature at
63°F. CO2 sensors in strategic areas regulate the required fresh air intake.
eters is displacement ventilation. Many zones within
the library have very high ceilings and many occupants.
These zones are cooled and supplied with outdoor air Standard 62.1-2007. A zone air distribution effectiveness
through displacement ventilation, supplying air at low (Ez) value of 1.2 was used, since only air cooler than or
speed near the floor. This creates two distinct zones: low at the same temperature as the room is ever supplied
down, where the occupants are, is the stratified zone through displacement with radiant floor heating per
and higher up is the mixing zone. With this type of ven- Table 6.2 of the standard.
tilation, the free cooling period can be extended as sup- Particular attention was paid to the selection of other
ply temperatures are warmer. interior finishing materials with low volatile organic
This type of ventilation creates a cleaner, higher- compound (VOC) emissions.
quality air zone for the occupant when compared to tra- The interior design team chose a wood that had been
ditional air supply methods. In addition, carbon dioxide thermo treated with polymerized densification, to
(CO2) sensors help provide adequate air quality by manufacture the library’s built-in furniture to allow for
increasing airflow when the level exceeds the setpoint greater durability of public facilities in contrast to sur-
(Figure 7). face lamination techniques. (See Environmental Impact
With the radiant hot water floor as the heating source, section for more information.)
the risk of combining and redistributing various odors
in the rooms is completely avoided since no air is trans- Operation and Maintenance
ferred from one room to another as occurs with heating The building operation is facilitated by a building auto-
through an air system. mation system (BAS). Each area in the library is equipped
All the airflow rates were calculated using ASHRAE with temperature, humidity and CO2 sensors, a VAV box

54 ASHRAE JOURNAL ashrae.org M A Y 2 0 18


2018 ASHRAE TECHNOLOGY AWARD CASE STUDIES

for fresh air distribution, radiant floor control valves and field ensured that a maximum number of existing trees
a fan coil with a bypass fan (BPF). All this equipment as were conserved. The close relationship with the outside
well as the pumps, heat pumps and other components are and the surrounding park promotes the well-being of the
connected to the BAS accessible remotely by the operator. occupants, especially since the relationship is visual, but
The BAS alerts the operator if any of the equipment also olfactory and sound, thanks to the opening windows.
fails or if the comfort parameters are outside the accept- Effective water management was also a priority in the
able ranges calculated according to ASHRAE Standard development of the project. The large mineral retention
55.1-2004. basin in the courtyard reduces the pressure on munici-
The majority of the equipment is installed in the pal infrastructure during heavy rain. The plants used
mechanical room in the basement and is set up to facili- for the entire site (on the ground and on the green roofs)
tate easy maintenance. are of indigenous origin and do not require irrigation,
which greatly reduces water requirements. The library
Cost Effectiveness consumes 40% less potable water than a conventional
The calculated return on investment for the energy- building, with the addition of waterless urinals that
efficiency measures is less than 5.6 years save 39,626 gallons (150 000 L) of water
when compared to a reference building. per urinal per year. Add to this a selection
In 2016, the building energy consump- of plumbing appliances with low water
tion was 627,840 kWh for a total cost of consumption.
CAN$53,526 (all money is in Canadian Roasted wood was used both for the
dollars), and natural gas consumption of Raymond-Lévesque library envelope and
529.7 ft3 (15 m3) for $154.24. for its furniture.
The natural gas tariff is complex and The thermo transformation process that
includes supply, transportation load bal- generates roasted wood (commonly known
ancing, distribution, inventory-related as torrefaction) allows the use of wood spe-
adjustments, cap-and-trade emission cies such as yellow poplar that would oth-
allowances services, some of which erwise not be suitable for outdoor use.
Motorized openings provide natural ventila-
vary daily. The average cost is $0.29/ft3 tion almost 50% of the library’s open hours Torrefaction involves heating wood at
3), which is very high due to the
($10.20/m each year (approximately 1,874 hours). relatively high temperatures to improve its
extremely low annual consumption. properties without the addition of chemi-
The hydroelectric tariff has a demand charge of cals or toxic substances. This wood preservation tech-
$14.43/kW, and a cost for energy consumption (the first nique was relatively unknown in Quebec at the time of the
210,000 kWh at $0.0497/kWh and all remaining energy architectural competition and opened the way to a greater
at $0.0369/kWh) for an equivalent cost of $0.085/kWh. use of this renewable resource in institutional projects.
The use of kickplates under the bookshelves as venti- The modular wood is coated with UV protection and is
lation grilles and bypass fans on the fan coils reduced preassembled in the factory, which makes assembly and
costs by more than $50,000. Energy models predicted maintenance easier.
an annual savings of $34,457. The building also received The rate of diversion of waste from landfill sites during
over $100,000 in grants from the utility providers. construction was 90%. All the waste was sent to a sorting
The total cost of the project was $12.4 million. facility where it was separated into different categories
for recycling and reuse.
Environmental Impact
The reduction of greenhouse gases exceeds 85 tons annu- Conclusion
ally. The proximity of the public transport network and the The natural resources found in the park that sur-
installation of charging stations for electric cars contribute rounds the library were key to its design concept. A com-
to reducing the environmental impact of users. bination of passive and mechanical strategies helped
Care during construction, the compact footprint of the save 42% compared to the ASHRAE/IESNA Standard
building and the careful positioning of the geothermal 90.1-2007 reference building.

M A Y 2 0 18 ashrae.org ASHRAE JOURNAL 55


COLUMN ENGINEER’S NOTEBOOK

Stephen W. Duda

N+1 HVAC for IT Closets


And Server Rooms
BY STEPHEN W. DUDA, P.E., BEAP, HBDP, HFDP, FELLOW ASHRAE

In my first Engineer’s Notebook column back in November 2013,1 I wrote “Lessons Learned
from Energy Audits” in which I described several small, simple-to-fix energy-wasting
features I sometimes find as I peer review or audit building HVAC systems.
In this column, I want to add one more item to that a single item of DX equipment to put their equipment at
list. I want to make a seemingly simple point about risk of over-heating. Okay, add another parallel redun-
which system should be your primary cooling source dant DX split-system. Wait, that doesn’t seem ideal, not
and which system should be your backup cooling to mention expensive. Okay, let’s add a cooling-only
source, when providing more than one source of cooling variable-air volume (VAV) box off the primary house air-
in an information technology (IT) closet or small data/ handling system and duct its outlet into the IT closet or
server room. I write with a sense of some frustration as server room. That seems reasonable; a cooling-only VAV
I see far more often than I should that people are oper- box is inexpensive. But wait, we just said we don’t want to
ating a more energy-hungry piece of equipment as the rely on the main house system after business hours. Well,
everyday system while a lower energy user sits idle. that’s okay in this case; if the DX system fails after-hours
we can run the larger house system in that instance since
Introduction it would be a rare occurrence. So the decision is reached
Many building owners have design standards that call for to use a DX split-system as the primary cooling source for
a direct-expansion (DX) split system (often a ductless mini- the IT closet or server room, and the main larger house
split) to serve IT closets and small data or server rooms. VAV air-handling system is used as the backup system
They make this requirement regardless of what type of only if the DX system fails.
overall house air-conditioning system is planned for the
remainder of the building. This type of owner specification Please Reconsider
is found in many organizations both public and private; What is wrong with the previous hypothetical (but,
examples of public domain owner standards that includes trust me, far too real, far too often) conclusion? The
this requirement are found in the References.2,3 larger central air-handling system will be more energy
When asked for a reason, a common response is that they efficient than the small DX mini-split; especially, if the
don’t want to operate a large central system at night and on central cooling system is chilled water based with evap-
weekends just to cool a few small IT closets and server rooms, orative or even ground-coupled heat rejection. Even a
which tend to need cooling 24/7/365 even if the remainder larger air-cooled DX packaged VAV rooftop unit with
of the building is shut down. Another reason is because reasonable compressor unloading or staged compres-
they want to be able to serve those systems from a backup or sor control, combined with near cube-law fan energy
emergency power source without having to power an entire reduction during off-peak conditions, will generally
central system that way. Makes sense. So far, no problem. operate with a better coefficient of performance than a
But then the topic turns to a single point of failure rep- much smaller on/off unit, much of the time.
resented by that piece of DX equipment. The discussion And most importantly, the larger house air-handling
often runs something like this: What happens if that DX system (or even that DX packaged VAV rooftop unit) will
mini-split fails? IT managers as a group are very protec-
tive of their IT equipment and cannot allow a failure of Stephen W. Duda, P.E., is senior mechanical engineer at Ross & Baruzzini, Inc. in St. Louis.

56 ASHRAE JOURNAL ashrae.org M A Y 2 0 18


usually (and should, in most climates) have an air-side
economizer. The small DX mini-split generally does not.
IT closets and small server rooms are usually located in
the center of a building, or center core of a building floor,
for more efficient wire and cable distribution. There is,
therefore, a cooling load year-round due to lack of any
cold exterior wall exposure. So while the compressor in
the small DX mini-split is chugging away all winter long,
an air-side economizer in the larger house air-handling
system would be delivering compressor-free cooling.
There is even a slight thermal benefit of recirculating
return air from the IT closet during very cold weather in
that it would reduce some of the heating load at the cen-
tral system.
There are cases out there, probably, where the pro-
rated fan energy of an exceptionally high static pressure
central air-handling system serving an IT closet or small
server room, coupled with its share of the central cooling
energy, renders the small DX split-system slightly more
efficient on a peak design day. But without question
when adding in the economizer savings on an annual
basis, the central system is the better choice when avail-
able during its hours of operation.
So my suggestion is to use the main larger house VAV air-
handling system as the primary cooling source for the IT
closet or server room, and use the DX split-system only as
the backup system during normal business hours, allow-
ing it to take over on nights and weekends when the main
system shuts down. (Some engineers even do this without
increasing the central cooling system size, reasoning that
enough margin is built into the system size anyway; and
on those rare occasions of true peak system load, the IT
closet can use the DX split-system, albeit with increased
controls complexity.)

Benefits and Drawbacks


In addition to lower overall energy use, there are other
benefits of using the main larger house VAV air-handling
system as the primary cooling source for the IT closet;
the first of which is an air exchange benefit. The DX unit
recirculates the same air over-and-over, but the VAV
box introduces an exchange of air that is at least a small
benefit to the IT closet. And yes, IT closet or server room
air is Class 1 air4 that can be recirculated to other spaces,
so there is no problem in returning that air back to the
main air-handling unit (AHU).
Controls can be extremely simple. There is really

58 ASHRAE JOURNAL ashrae.org M A Y 2 0 18


73º 71º
70º

Imagine providing infinite comfort everywhere,


60%
from anywhere.
RH
CO2 1,800
PPM

VOC
350
PPM

That would be a game-changing moment.

A fully-integrated, plug-and-play system delivering the works…


Comfort, efficiency, control and healthy building solutions.
Plus demonstrated ROI.

Now, imagine it all...from the palm of your hand.

Introducing the HVAC2 Smarter Building Platform.


Visit www.airstagevrf.com.

HVAC2
SMARTER BUILDING PLATFORM™
B Y V E N T A C I T Y S Y S T E M S
no need for a complicated sequence of operation that air-handling system, run your energy model both ways.
attempts to define occupied versus unoccupied hours, Many, if not most, projects today are requiring annual
or sequences that involve triggering one mode upon fail- energy models for sustainability reasons, and most energy
ure of another mode. Simply use a direct-digital control model calculation programs will allow you to reassign the
(DDC) space temperature sensor to control the VAV box, IT closet or data room to another system type with rela-
and use the DX mini-split manufacturer’s thermostat set tive ease. Our office did so on a few recent projects and
3°F to 5°F (2°C to 3°C) higher to control the DX mini-split. found that the main larger house VAV air-handling system
Due to that offset in temperature setpoints, the VAV box was the significantly better option on an annual basis,
will always accommodate the load first when it can, and probably due in large part to the high number of annual
upon failure or the night/weekend scenario the tempera- economizer hours in which the DX split-system would
ture creep will trigger the DX mini-split without any com- have been operating without economizer.
plicated sequences. Then as a final safety, using software Finally, the same logic applies to buildings with all-
programming at the DDC host computer, the DDC space water systems such as four-pipe fan-coil units (e.g.,
temperature sensor can used to be alarm upon room out higher-end hotels, university student housing) where a
of limits, typically 8°F to 10°F (4°C to 5°C) above setpoint, water-side economizer is available. It will generally be
which would indicate a failure of both systems. more energy efficient on an annual basis to serve the IT
Why not use all-VAV for these types of spaces and get closet or small server room with a chilled water fan-coil
rid of that ductless mini-split altogether? Well, two VAV unit as the primary system, using a DX mini-split only as
terminals off the same air-handling system would not backup, again because of the economizer. Furthermore,
constitute N+1. The premise of this column assumes that fan-coil units today are available with electrically com-
a separate system is needed for operation during nights mutated motors (ECM) and variable-speed fan control.
and weekends, and because some owners have criteria
demanding it. Even in 24/7/365 facilities such as hos- Conclusion
pitals, the DX mini-splits offer a degree of reassurance If you are one of those building facility operators or sys-
should there be a failure of the main air-handling sys- tem design engineers who have settled in to using a DX
tem. Finally, it is easier to serve the DX mini-split from ductless mini-split as your primary source of cooling in an
a backup or emergency power source if required by the IT closet or small server room, while a likely more efficient
owner, than to do so with the central system. house system with economizer serves only as a backup, this
Is there any disadvantage to my suggestion? There may column is intended to challenge you to consider reversing
be one drawback of using the main larger house VAV that idea. When in doubt, perform a simple energy analysis
air-handling system as the primary cooling source for (often required anyway in sustainable design) to study the
the IT closets, and, if so, it occurs on a high-percentage alternatives, including the effect of economizer cooling.
outdoor air VAV system. Does the outdoor air load at the
main system increase when you add a VAV box to serve Acknowledgments
the IT closet? Logic says no, that the net total outdoor air The author gratefully acknowledges the assistance of
quantity is or should be the same regardless of the sys- Dylan B. Clayton, Associate Member ASHRAE, who reran
tem chosen. However, some health-care codes5 require energy models from recent actual projects to verify the
a fixed outdoor air percentage not related to ASHRAE relative energy differentials described in this column.
Standard 62.1 requirements. If the AHU is required to
deliver, say a fixed 33% outdoor air to meet patient room References
requirements in those occupancies, there is no way not 1. Duda, S. 2013. “Lessons from energy audits.” ASHRAE Journal (11).
2. Unified Facilities Criteria. 2014. UFC 4-510-01, Design: Military
to deliver 33% outdoor air to the IT closet as well when Medical Facilities, United States Department of Defense, ¶10-7.2.
using the central AHU, adding load to the system on hot/ 3. GSA. 2017. Facilities Standards for the Public Buildings Service.
humid days or very cold days. United States General Services Administration, Section 5.7.
If in doubt as to whether the DX split-system should 4. ANSI/ASHRAE Standard 62.1-2016, Ventilation for Acceptable
Indoor Air Quality, Table 6.2.2.1.
be the primary or backup cooling source for the IT closet 5. For example, Illinois Department of Public Health, Title 77,
or server room, compared to the main larger house VAV Section 250.2480.

60 ASHRAE JOURNAL ashrae.org M A Y 2 0 18


COLUMN BUILDING SCIENCES

Joseph W. Lstiburek

Avoiding Mass Failures


How To Insulate Mass Buildings on the Interior and Not Get Into Trouble
BY JOSEPH W. LSTIBUREK, PH.D., P.ENG., FELLOW ASHRAE

A building is an environmental separator. In fundamental terms its function is to


“keep the outside out” and the “inside in.” The outside provides “environmental
loads” as does the inside. When rehabilitating existing buildings these loads can be
addressed from either the inside or outside or both sides. When an existing building
has historic significance or when it is “aesthetically attractive,” addressing the envi-
ronmental loads is typically limited to the interior. There are exceptions where the
exterior “intervention” is limited, or for all practical purposes “invisible” or “subtle”
or “stealthy.”
Mass masonry walls manage moisture in different management” is necessary to preserve the historic
ways than modern, drained assemblies. Therefore, the nature of the façade.
balance of moisture (into and out of the wall) is strongly Keeping the mass assembly from getting excessively
affected by interior insulation as the wall becomes wet from the interior is also important. The first step is
colder. The assembly has reduced drying (because to keep the interior moisture load low. For mass build-
the energy flow through the wall has been reduced), ings, interiors are assumed to be conditioned to around
and less drying to the interior (due to the addition of 70°F (21°C) in the winter and 75°F (24°C) in the summer.
vapor-impermeable layers on the interior). In addition, Unlike new construction, in Climate Zones 5 and higher,
moisture flow caused by air leakage into the interface interior relative humidity in mass buildings should be
between the masonry and the insulation can result in limited to 30% (no higher) during the coldest month in
condensation problems; therefore, excellent airtight- winter.
ness is critical. The primary concern with insulating Load-bearing masonry walls pose a condensation
older load bearing masonry buildings in cold climates is risk at the masonry-to-insulation interface. Air leak-
the possibility of freeze-thaw damage of the brickwork age could bypass imperfectly installed air barriers,
and decay in any embedded wood structure. Both con- resulting in condensation problems. To avoid this
cerns are related to excess moisture content. problem, excellent airtightness on the interior is
Keeping the mass assembly from getting excessively essential. Options for retrofitting an air barrier at a
wet from the exterior is important. We have been here
before (“How Buildings Age?”, ASHRAE Journal, May Joseph W. Lstiburek, Ph.D., P.Eng., is a principal of Building Science Corporation in
2016). Invisible, subtle and stealthy exterior “rain Westford, Mass. Visit www.buildingscience.com.

62 ASHRAE JOURNAL ashrae.org M A Y 2 0 18


COLUMN BUILDING SCIENCES

PHOTO 1 (Top Left) Solid Brick. Excellent condition. No large void areas. PHOTO 2 (Top Right) Clay Tile. Excellent condition. No large void areas. PHOTO 3 (Bottom Left) Brick
Wall Section. Solid mass walls are not typically solid. Let me repeat: solid mass walls are not typically solid. PHOTO 4 (Bottom Right) Clay Tiles. Clay tiles are hollow. Did I mention
that solid mass walls are not typically solid?

mass masonry wall include the application of a liquid- The enclosure is not the only thing that needs to be
applied or membrane and sheet good air barriers on addressed. So must the space conditioning system and
the interior side, or the use of an insulation material ventilation system. All and any atmospherically vented
that creates an air barrier. (or naturally aspirated) combustion appliance need to
The mass walls to be retrofitted could include both be replaced with direct-vented or direct exhaust-vented
multi-wythe solid brick walls, and exterior brick with a equipment.
hollow clay block infill/backup wall. The interior of mass Kitchen and bathroom exhaust fans should be vented
walls may be finished with plaster, often gypsum or to the exterior of the building…and added if they do not
lime-cement based, and sometimes installed over fur- exist at all. Controlled mechanical ventilation needs to
ring strips and/or lath. In some cases, a layer of bitumen be added (we have been here before as well:
is applied between the interior finish and the masonry. “How Buildings Stack Up,” ASHRAE Journal, February
It is necessary to remove any existing interior furring, 2014).
lath and plaster to expose the brick structure from the The following approaches can be used in the noted
interior for retrofit since they could be moisture sensi- climate zones to insulate mass assemblies on the interior
tive (like gypsum), or form a void that can create unin- and stay out of trouble—with the following caveats—you
tentional air leakage (such as furring and lath). Photos need to keep the rainwater from excessively wetting
1, 2, 3 and 4 show conditions after removal/demolition the exterior and you need to keep the interior relative
of the interior furring, lath, and plaster. No one said this humidity low during the winter months in Climate
was going to be easy. Zones 5 and higher.

M A Y 2 0 18 ashrae.org ASHRAE JOURNAL 63


COLUMN BUILDING SCIENCES

Coping/Cap Flashing
Roof Approach One Over Top of Parapet

Fully Adhered Membrane Roofing


Extending Up Interior and Over Top
Of Parapet Wall
4 in. Spray Applied Foam Insulation
(Closed-Cell, High-Density)
Flat roof with parapet insulated from underneath with spray polyurethane
Embedded Wood Timber Roof Timber Decking
foam (2 lb/ft3 density) installed directly to the underside of the roof sheathing Structure
(Figure 1 ). Spray-applied fire proofing is applied to the spray foam. Note the
added parapet exterior drip edges. Exterior Wythe (Repointed
Or Coated with Polymer
This approach works in all climate zones. Cement Slurry)
2 in. Sprayed Cellulose
Fire-Proofing

Multi-Wythe Masonry Wall

Dropped Ceiling Structure


2 in. Spray Applied Foam Insulation
(Closed-Cell, High-Density)
Uninsulated Steel Stud Assembly

Gypsum Board

Coping/Cap Flashing
Roof Approach Two Over Top of Parapet

New Roof Membrane


Plywood or OSB
Rigid Insulation
Existing Roof Membrane
Flat roof with parapet insulated from above with rigid insulation and from
underneath with fiberglass or cellulose or rockwool/mineral wool insulation
Embedded Wood Timber Roof
(Figure 2 ). Note the added parapet exterior drip edges. Floor Structure
This approach works in all climate zones – when the ratio of insulation above
the roof deck compared to ratio of insulation below the roof deck is correct Exterior Wythe (Repointed or Fiberglass, Cellulose, Rockwool or
(again, we have been here before, see “Hybrid Attics and Hybrid Walls,” ASHRAE Coated with Polymer Mineral Wool Insulation
Cement Slurry) Sealant
Journal, October 2017).
Multi-Wythe Masonry Wall

Dropped Ceiling Structure


Liquid Applied Water and Air
Control Layer
Fiberglass, Cellulose, Rockwool or
Mineral Wool Cavity Insulation
Gypsum Board

Roof Approach Three 2 in. Vented Airspace

Rigid Sheathing Insulation “Stop”

Vented attic with air sealed ceiling penetrations (Figure 3 ).


Blown cellulose or fiberglass or rockwool or mineral wool insulation.
This approach works in all climate zones. Blown Cellulose, Fiberglass,
Soffit Vent Rockwool or Mineral Wool
Perimeter Air Seal (Spray
Polyurethane Foam)

64 ASHRAE JOURNAL ashrae.org M A Y 2 0 18


ASHRAE Technology Portal
Search ASHRAE’s vast information archive
Member access to ASHRAE Journal articles and ASHRAE
Research Reports. Other content on a subscription basis.

www.ashrae.org/technologyportal
COLUMN BUILDING SCIENCES

Roof Approach Four


Blocking
External Air Seal (Spray
Conditioned attic with spray polyurethane foam (2 lb/ft3 density) installed Polyurethane Foam)
Spray Polyurethane Foam
directly to the underside of the roof sheathing (Figure 4 ). Spray-applied fire (2 lb/ft3 Density)
Fireproofing
proofing is applied to the underside of the spray polyurethane foam.
This approach works in all climate zones.

Roof Approach Five


Vented Airspace

Rigid Continuous Insulation

Cathedralized conditioned attic with rigid continuous insulation installed


directly to the underside of rafter framing. The rafter cavity is vented (Figure 5 ). Perimeter Air Seal

This approach works in all climate zones.

Soffit Vent

Vapor Diffusion Vent at Ridge

Rafter Cavity Insulated With Cellulose, Fiberglass, Rockwool or Mineral Wool

Rigid Continuous Insulation

Perimeter Air Seal

Roof Approach Six

Cathedralized conditioned attic with rigid continuous insulation installed


directly to the underside of rafter framing. The rafter cavity is insulated with cel-
lulose or fiberglass insulation (Figure 6 ). A vapor diffusion ridge vent is located
at the ridge only. Soffit venting is not required.
This approach works in all climate zones.

66 ASHRAE JOURNAL ashrae.org M A Y 2 0 18


COLUMN BUILDING SCIENCES

Wall Approach One


Cementitious parge coat (“rendering”) on the interior of a mass wall assem-
bly (multi-wythe brick or block or clay tile) (Figure 7 ).
Fluid-applied water control layer (vapor semi-permeable) on the cementi-
tious rendering.
Multi-Wythe Mass Wall
Spray-applied polyurethane foam (2 lb/ft3 density).
Interior framing (wood studs or metal studs) creating service cavity. Interior Lining
Gypsum Board
Interior lining (gypsum wall board and interior finish). Interior Framing
This approach works in all climates with the following limitation—in zones Spray-Applied Polyurethane Foam (2 lb/ft3 Density)

where free-thaw damage is a risk—exterior rain water control (“rain shedding”) Fluid-Applied Water Control Layer
(Vapor Semi-Permeable)
must be also employed. Cementitious Rendering

Wall Approach Two


Fluid-applied water control layer (vapor semi-permeable) on the interior of a
mass wall assembly (multi-wythe brick or block or clay tile) (Figure 8 ).
Spray-applied polyurethane foam (2 lb/ft3 density).
Interior framing (wood studs or metal studs) creating service cavity.
Interior lining (gypsum wall board and interior finish).
The only alteration from Wall Approach One is the removal of the cementitious Multi-Wythe Mass Wall
parge coat. The use of the parge coat is dependent on the “smoothness” of the
Interior Lining
interior mass wall surface. Rough interior textures may not be able to be coated Gypsum Board
effectively with a fluid-applied water control layer. This approach works in all Interior Framing
Spray-Applied Polyurethane Foam
climates with the following limitation—in zones where free-thaw damage is a 3
(2 lb/ft Density)
risk—exterior rain water control (“rain shedding”) must be also employed. Fluid-Applied Water Control Layer (Vapor Semi-Permeable)

Wall Approach Three


Cementitious parge coat (“rendering”) on the interior of a mass wall assem-
bly (multi-wythe brick or block or clay tile) (Figure 9 ).
Fluid-applied water control layer (vapor semi-permeable) on the cementitious
rendering. Multi-Wythe Mass Wall
Rigid mineral wool board sheathing.
Interior Lining
Interior framing (wood studs or metal studs) creating service cavity. Gypsum Board
Interior lining (gypsum wall board and interior finish). Interior Framing
The alteration from Wall Approach One is the use of rigid mineral wool board Rockwool or Rigid Mineral Wool Insulation
Fluid-Applied Water Control
sheathing in place of spray polyurethane foam. This approach works in Climate Layer (Vapor Semi-Permeable)
Zones 4 or lower. Cementitious Rendering

Wall Approach Four

Fluid-applied water control layer (vapor semi-permeable) on the interior of a


mass wall assembly (multi-wythe brick or block or clay tile) (Figure 10 ).
Rigid mineral wool board sheathing.
Interior framing (wood studs or metal studs) creating service cavity. Multi-Wythe Mass Wall

Interior lining (gypsum wall board and interior finish). Interior Lining
The alteration from Approach One is the removal of the cementitious parge Gypsum Board
Interior Framing
coat and the use of rigid mineral wool board sheathing in place of spray polyure- Rockwool or Rigid Mineral Wool Insulation
thane foam. This approach works in Climate Zones 4 or lower. Fluid-Applied Water Control
Layer (Vapor Semi-Permeable)

67 ASHRAE JOURNAL ashrae.org M A Y 2 0 18


COLUMN BUILDING SCIENCES

Wall Approach Five

Fluid-applied water control layer (vapor semi-permeable) on the interior of a


mass wall assembly (multi-wythe brick or block or clay tile) (Figure 11 ).
Interior framing (wood frame wall: 2 × 4 or thicker).
Cellulose or fiberglass cavity insulation.
Multi-Wythe Mass Wall Interior Lining
Gypsum Board Interior lining (gypsum wall board and interior finish).
Cellulose, Fiberglass, Rockwool or The alteration from Wall Approach One is the removal of the cementitious
Mineral Wool Cavity Insulation
Wood Frame Wall (2×6)
parge coat and the use of cellulose or fiberglass cavity insulation in place
of spray polyurethane foam and the use of an interior wood frame wall. This
Fluid-Applied Water Control Layer (Vapor Semi-Permeable) approach works in Climate Zones 4 or lower.

Wall Approach Six

Cementitious parge coat (“rendering”) on the interior of a mass wall assem-


bly (multi-wythe brick or block or clay tile) (Figure 12 ).
Fluid-applied water control layer (vapor semi-permeable) on the cementitious
Interior Lining
Gypsum Board rendering.
Wood frame wall (2 × 4 or 2 × 6) insulated with cellulose cavity insulation.
Multi-Wythe Mass Wall
Membrane “smart vapor barrier” installed on the interior of the frame wall.
“Strapped Wall”;
Horizontal Framing Second layer of interior framing (“strapped wall”) creating service cavity.
Membrane “Smart
Vapor Barrier” Interior lining (gypsum wall board and interior finish).
Cellulose or Fiberglass or This approach works in all climates with the following limitation—in zones
Rockwool Cavity Insulation
Wood Frame Wall (2×6)
where free-thaw damage is a risk—exterior rain water control (“rain shedding”)
Fluid-Applied Water Control Layer (Vapor
Semi-Permeable) must be also employed.
Cementitious Rendering

Wall Approach Seven

Fluid-applied water control layer (vapor semi-permeable) on the interior of a


mass wall assembly (multi-wythe brick or block or clay tile) (Figure 13 ).
Rigid mineral wool board sheathing.
Interior Lining
Wood frame wall (2 × 4 or 2 × 6) insulated with cellulose or fiberglass or
Gypsum Board rockwool cavity insulation.
Multi-Wythe
Mass Wall “Strapped Wall”; Horizontal Framing
Membrane “Smart Vapor Barrier”
Membrane “smart vapor barrier” installed on the interior of the frame wall.
Wood Frame Cellulose, Fiberglass or Second layer of interior framing (“strapped wall”) creating service cavity.
Wall (2×6) Rockwool Cavity Insulation
Interior lining (gypsum wall board and interior finish).
Rockwool or Rigid Mineral Wool Insulation
This approach works in all climate zones.
Fluid-Applied Water Control Layer (Vapor Semi-Permeable)
Cementitious Rendering

M A Y 2 0 18 ashrae.org ASHRAE JOURNAL 68


COLUMN BUILDING SCIENCES

Foundation Approach One Drainage Mat

Spray Polyurethane Foam


Figure 14.
Interior Frame
Interior perimeter drain.
Interior drainage mat. Interior Lining (Gypsum Board)

Spray-applied polyurethane foam (2 lb/ft3 density).


Concrete “Cap”
Interior framing (wood studs or metal studs) creating service cavity. Extruded Polystyrene Rigid Insulation (XPS)
Interior lining (gypsum wall board and interior finish).
Wood Sheathing Subfloor
This approach works in all climates with only the following limitation—where
embedded floor joists are used sufficient diffusion drying surface area above
grade to the exterior must exist to limit the moisture content of the embedded
floor joists. Existing Concrete Slab

Epoxy Vapor Barrier


Crushed Stone (No Fines)
Geotextile (Filter Fabric)
Interior Perimeter Drain

Drainage Mat
Foundation Approach Two
Frame Wall
Membrane “Smart Vapor Barrier”;
Figure 15. Sealed to Wood Sheathing Subfloor
Interior perimeter drain. Horizontal Strapping
Interior drainage mat. Service Cavity
Interior Lining (Gypsum Board)
Wood frame wall (2 × 4) insulated with cellulose, fiberglass or rockwool,
mineral wool cavity insulation. Concrete “Cap”
Membrane “smart vapor barrier” installed on the interior of the frame wall. Extruded Polystyrene Rigid Insulation (XPS)

Second layer of interior framing (“strapped wall”) creating service cavity. Sealant
Wood Sheathing Subfloor
Interior lining (gypsum wall board and interior finish).
This approach works in all climates with only the following limitation—where
embedded floor joists are used sufficient diffusion drying surface area above Existing Concrete Slab
grade to the exterior must exist to limit the moisture content of the embedded
Epoxy Vapor Barrier
floor joists. Crushed Stone (No Fines)
Geotextile (Filter Fabric)
Interior Perimeter Drain

Foundation Approach Three Drainage Mat

Cavity Insulation
Figure 16.
Interior perimeter drain. Interior Lining (Gypsum Board)

Interior drainage mat.


Concrete “Cap”
Wood frame wall (2 × 4) insulated with cellulose, fiberglass or rockwool, Extruded Polystyrene Rigid Insulation (XPS)
mineral wool cavity insulation. Sealant Wood Sheathing Subfloor
Interior lining (gypsum wall board and interior finish).
This approach works in Climate Zones 4 or lower with only the following limi-
tation—where embedded floor joists are used sufficient diffusion drying surface
Existing Concrete Slab
area above grade to the exterior must exist to limit the moisture content of the
embedded floor joists. Crushed Stone (No Fines)
Epoxy Vapor Barrier

Geotextile (Filter Fabric)


Interior Perimeter Drain

69 ASHRAE JOURNAL ashrae.org M A Y 2 0 18


COLUMN IEQ APPLICATIONS

Use With Adequate


Ventilation?
BY FRANCIS (BUD) J. OFFERMANN P.E., C.I.H., MEMBER ASHRAE; MARK NICAS, PH.D., MPH, C.I.H.

Consumer products such as paints, cleaning chemicals, and adhesives often contain toxic
volatile chemicals. When these products are used indoors, these chemicals are released
into the air resulting in inhalation exposures to applicators and other occupants. The
resulting indoor concentrations can result in exposures that cause acute adverse health
effects, including death, and/or explosion risks. Warning labels on these products and
information in “safety data sheets” often simply caution to “use with adequate ventilation.”
But what does “use with adequate ventilation” actually period and four days in a test chamber.2 However, pres-
mean? What is adequate? ently there is little testing of the chemical emission rates
ANSI C400.1/Z129.1,1 defines “adequate ventilation” as of wet products, such as paints, cleaning chemicals,
a condition falling within either or both of the following and adhesives, when they are being applied. This is not
categories: 1) Ventilation to reduce concentrations below because of any technical limitations, as the same small
that which may cause personal injury or illness, and 2) chamber chemical emission rate tests can be conducted
Ventilation sufficient to prevent accumulation to a con- using a glove box to measure the chemical emission
centration in excess of 25% of the level set for the lower rates of wet-applied products during their application
flammable limit. In other words, having “adequate as shown below.
ventilation” is a good thing, the air is safe to breathe and Ventilation engineers can use this chemical emission
explosions will be prevented. rate data to calculate how much ventilation constitutes
However, the product information offered by manu- “adequate ventilation” for a specific application that will
facturers to consumers never contains guidance regard- result in acceptable indoor exposures and not pose an
ing the volume flow rate of ventilation (e.g., cfm [m3/h]) explosion risk during the use of the product.
that constitutes “adequate ventilation.” Further confus- The following is an example of the calculation of how
ing consumers, is that the same recommendation, “use much ventilation is “adequate” for a popular consumer
with adequate ventilation,” is provided by manufactur- paint stripper. We selected a paint stripper for this
ers for both relatively non-toxic products and highly example, since many paint strippers emit large quanti-
toxic products such as paint strippers. ties of methylene chloride, which is a very toxic chemi-
Ventilation engineers routinely design ventilation cal that is metabolized in the body to carbon monoxide,
systems to control the concentrations of chemicals in and has been the cause of injuries and deaths. The
indoor spaces based upon the emission rates of the manufacturer’s Safety Data Sheet (SDS) discloses that
indoor sources. Many of the materials in office and resi- the product contains 60% to 100% methylene chloride
dential buildings today (e.g., carpeting, furniture, adhe-
Francis (Bud) J. Offermann, P.E., C.I.H., is president of Indoor Environmental Engineering.
sives, paints, etc.) are tested for chemical emissions, Mark Nicas, Ph.D, C.I.H., Adjunct Professor of Environmental Health Sciences, School of Public
typically at 14 days following a 10-day conditioning Health, University of California, Berkeley.

70 ASHRAE JOURNAL ashrae.org M A Y 2 0 18


Trust the experts...

Make your building more efficient. Choose certified experts


in smart buildings, energy efficiency, and IoT. Our EcoXpert™
partners are industry-leading professionals who can make your
building more efficient and connected using our IoT-enabled
EcoStruxure™ architecture and platforms.

#WhatsYourBoldIdea

schneider-electric.com/ecoxpert

©2018 Schneider Electric. All Rights Reserved. Schneider Electric | Life Is On and EcoStruxure are trademarks
and the property of Schneider Electric SE, its subsidiaries, and affiliated companies. • 998-20121251_GMA-US
COLUMN IEQ APPLICATIONS

(dichloromethane) and 10% to 20% methanol. The prod- FIGURE 1 Paint stripper chemical emissions test during application in a ventilated
uct label states: “Use with adequate ventilation” and “If glove box.

using indoors open all windows and doors and maintain


a cross ventilation of moving fresh air across the work
area.” The product label offers no guidance on how
much ventilation constitutes “adequate ventilation” or
how that may be achieved. There is no mention of use
of a fan in a window to ensure that adequate ventilation
is provided, and the recommendation of opening win-
dows and doors suggests that just opening windows and
doors will be sufficient. Simply opening windows and
doors without use of an exhaust fan, does not ensure
adequate ventilation, and should never be relied upon
by itself. The air entering the window and door openings
is dependent upon the natural driving forces caused by
the indoor-outdoor temperature difference and wind box as depicted in Figure 1. A 30 cm × 15 cm (11.75 in. × 6
speed, and if these driving forces are small there will be in.) piece of plywood, with one coat each of primer and
little ventilation. a semi-gloss paint, was put into the test chamber and
To calculate how much ventilation this paint stripper the paint stripper was applied to a 14 × 12 cm (4.7 × 5.5
requires during application, we measured the chemi- in.) center area. We measured the concentrations of
cal emissions of the product in a 114 L (4.2 ft3) glove methylene chloride in real-time entering and exhausted

SHERLOCK
EVERYTHING FOR
ASHRAE 15-2013 AND
MECHANICAL CODE
REFRIGERANT LEAK MONITORING COMPLIANCE
S
g!

SNR A
nin
SI

ELECTRO-CHEMICAL ALARM INDICATION SELF-CONTAINED


SHERLOCK IR & CMOS SENSOR DEVICES BREATHING
gin

CONTROLS APPARATUS
The SHERLOCK Refrigerant Gas Monitoring System is an extensive family of monitoring panels,
sensors, external alarms, and breathing apparatus designed to make any machine room code
compliant. The SHERLOCK line includes electronic monitors with either two or three alarm levels.
be

Each alarm level has two relay outputs for various functions including activating audio-visual alarm
NE

indication devices, energizing exhaust fans or notifying the building automation system. The
SHERLOCK sensor modules utilize both solid state CMOS for engine room and ventline for
the

CFC/HCFC,HFC and HFO refrigerants where budget considerations are important or infrared (IR)
sensor technology, when accuracy is extremely important. The IR will virtually eliminate nuisance
alarms. We also have an Electro-Chemical sensor for high humidity ammonia applications and for
oxygen depletion. SHERLOCK can also provide several varieties of Self Contained Breathing
in

Apparatus to meet the requirements of most mechanical safety codes.

Wizard REFRIGERATION EVAPORATOR /


ts

DEFROST CONTROLS
tar

Temperature Control / AlarmDual Variable Speed Drive (VSD) Fans


GE

Multi-Stage Defrost Temperature Recorder


Demand Defrost Weekend / Weekday Defrost Schedule
ts

Load-Shedding Refrigerant Gas Leak Monitor / Alarm


System Standby / Shutdown Humidity Monitor & Control
tha

Up to 4-Zone Defrost Controller

REFRIGERATION CONTROL SYSTEMS


Total Facility Environmental Controls
ty

· Multi Step Compressor Control with VSD · 1 & 2 Zone Walk-In Monitor / Control
· Multi Step Condenser Control with VSD · 2 - 4 System Lead/Lag Redundant Control
ali

· Single Reciprocating / Screw Compressor Control · Blast Freezer / Chiller Control


· Wet Bulb, Floating Head Condenser Control · HVAC Heat Modulation Control W/ VSD
· Conventional, Small Compressor, Condenser, Defrost Control
Qu

· Comfort Miser HVAC Zone Temperature / Humidity Control


· GenCom2 Software for Remote Communications For Use with all Genesis Products
· GenCom 3000 Supervisory & Alarming Computer System For Use with all Genesis Products

GENESIS INTERNATIONAL, INC.


1040 Fox Chase Industrial Drive Arnold, MO USA 63010
Phone: (636) 282-0011 Email:mail@genesis-international.com
FAX: (636) 282-2722 Web:www.Genesis-International.com

72 ASHRAE JOURNAL ashrae.org M A Y 2 0 18


What’s New?

Certified Product Performance


is now more accessible than ever.
 SIMPLER SEARCHES  IMPROVED SECURITY  MULTILINGUAL  MOBILE ACCESS

Check out AHRI’s new and improved next generation


Directory of Certified Product Performance.
Download the app. Search AHRI Directory in iTunes and Google Play.

www.ahridirectory.org
COLUMN IEQ APPLICATIONS

from the glove box. The glove box exhaust rate was 17.3 as both ventilation per area of product application
L/min. (0.61 cfm, 9.1 air change per hour). The paint and ventilation per volume of product. For applicators
stripper was applied to the painted surface with a brush stripping well defined areas, ventilation per area of
and allowed to set for 15 minutes, as recommended in application area is appropriate. For applicators who are
the manufacturer’s application instructions, and then stripping objects that are not well defined by application
the stripper and paint was scraped off. The chemical area, ventilation per volume of product used is more
emissions were calculated as the product of the con- appropriate.
centration difference (exhaust – entering air) and the Based on the chemical emission rate tests, the ventila-
exhaust rate divided by the area of the applied product tion rates that constitute “adequate ventilation” for this
and consisted of two very large peaks; 782 g/m2·h (73 g/ product are as follows.
ft2·h) when the product was applied, followed by a sec-
ond larger peak of 1080 g/m2·h (100 g/ft2·h) when the 380 cfm/ft2 of product application (6950 m3/h·m2)
product was scraped 15 minutes later, and a declining
emission rate measured to be 205 mg/m2·h (19 g/ft2·h) at 203 cfm/ounce of product applied (12 m3/h·mL)
60 minutes following application.
These chemical emission rates were then input into Cancer: Limit lifetime exposure to less than four times
an indoor air mass balance model to calculate the per year when using the above recommended ventila-
indoor concentrations for different amounts of product tion rates.
usage and exhaust ventilation. For this calculation, we What does this mean for users of these products? Paint
assumed that the concentration for the applicator expo- strippers containing methylene chloride (as do many
sure is the same as the concentration in the exhaust air paint strippers), produce very high emissions of methy-
(e.g., the applicator is between the exhaust fan and the lene chloride and require high ventilation rates for safe
paint stripping activity). indoor applications. Whenever possible, paint stripping
To calculate the ventilation required to satisfy the two should be conducted outdoors as often is suggested on
objectives of health and explosion, we used the following product labels. If that is not possible, then a fan should
criteria for methylene chloride: be operated to exhaust air from the work space directly
• Acute non-cancer: 1/4 of the OSHA3 Short-Term to outdoors at the recommended rates, with a source of
Exposure-15 minutes: 31 ppm (109 mg/m3) makeup air, such as a window to outdoors or a door to
• Cancer: No Significant Risk Level4 Long Term Expo- adjacent spaces, kept open.
sure-70 years: 200 µg/day For many consumers the exhaust fan options are win-
• Explosion: 1/10 of the Lower Explosive Limit: 13,000 dow fans and box fans installed in windows. Window
ppm (45 200 mg/m3) fans typically have two or more fans (4 to 8 in. [10 to 20
We note these acute non-cancer exposure guidelines cm] diameter) and are rated at 100 to 400 cfm (170 to
are not intended for sensitive occupants such as infants, 680 m3/h). Box fans typically are 20 in. (51 cm) in diam-
pregnant women and the elderly, for which much lower eter and are rated at 1,000 to 2,000 cfm (1700 to 3400
(e.g., 31 times lower) concentrations would be required. m3/h). The specific exhaust flow rate ratings for exhaust
For this product, consisting of methylene chloride and fans can be found in the manufacturers specifications.
methanol, the determining criterion for acceptable ven- Thus, if a consumer has a 1,000 cfm (1700 m3/h) box
tilation is health, not explosion, as the health exposure fan, then the maximum amount of application area
guideline concentration is more than 400 times lower is 2.63 ft2 (0.24 m2), not a very big area, or on a vol-
than the explosion guideline. With respect to the health ume basis, not more than 4.9 ounces (146 mL), a small
guideline, the amount of required ventilation is deter- amount of product.
mined by the methylene chloride emissions, as metha- As is clear from these calculated ventilation require-
nol is present in the product at much lower concentra- ments, paint strippers containing methylene chloride
tions and has a much higher allowable exposure limit. require impractically large ventilation rates for paint
The calculated ventilation requirement that consti- stripping activities involving more than a very small
tutes “adequate ventilation” for this product is presented area, and thus cannot be conducted indoors with

74 ASHRAE JOURNAL ashrae.org M A Y 2 0 18


Sure, any water heater you select will probably do
a good enough job. But engineers like you strive
for a higher standard to meet the needs of your
demanding clients. So why settle for just “good
enough” when you can spec products that are
always Built to be the BestTM.

With Bradford White, you get the quality and


performance you and your clients can count on.
Built to be the Best TM
Our products deliver efficiency, reliability, easy
installation and 24/7 support. We stand behind you
every time you spec one of our products.

Choose quality.
Choose Bradford White.
Learn more at bradfordwhite.com/yourspec

“GOOD ENOUGH” IS
NOT GOOD ENOUGH.

© 2018 Bradford White Corporation. All rights reserved.


BWASHJ0518
COLUMN IEQ APPLICATIONS

“adequate ventilation.” Such indoor work would require be removed and disposed of properly as soon as possible
pressure demand respiratory protection. along with all residual stripper/paint on the stripped
It is not surprising that there are so many injuries and surface. Following the removal of these materials the
deaths cause by the use of paint strippers in residential exhaust fan should operate for a minimum of three air
bathroom remodeling projects. In these projects there is changes to reduce the indoor concentrations following
often a large area to be stripped in a small room air vol- the application by 95%, calculated as follows:
ume. If the consumer considers the operation of the bath-
room exhaust (e.g., 50 cfm [85 m3/h]) as being “adequate Exhaust Fan Operation Time Following Application/
ventilation,” that would be a fatally wrong assumption. Removal (Hours) = V/(20 × Q) (IP)
The modeled peak indoor concentrations for a 9 ft2 (0.84 = 3 × V/Q (SI)
m2) application with a 50 cfm (85 m3/h) exhaust fan, is where
3,070 ppm, which is more than 1.3 times the NIOSH IDLH V = the room volume (ft3 [m3]), which is length ×
(Immediately Dangerous to Life and Health) concentration width × ceiling height
of 2,300 ppm.5 If the application areas are larger then the Q = exhaust ventilation rate in cfm (m3/h).
peak indoor concentrations will be proportionally higher. Thus, for a 3,000 ft3 (85 m3) room (15 ft × 25 ft × 8 ft
In addition, the required duration of the fan operation ceiling [4.6 m × 7.6 m × 2.4 m]) with an exhaust fan oper-
after completing the paint stripping may be calculated ating at 1,000 cfm (1699 m3/h) the exhaust fan needs to
as follows. The stripped paint waste continues to be be operated for at least 0.15 hours (9 minutes) following
a significant emitter of methylene chloride for many removal of all of the paint stripper material.
hours following the stripping, so it is important that In conclusion, chemical emission rate testing for wet-
when the job is completed that the stripped paint waste applied products under actual or simulated use condi-
tions can be determined by relatively simple testing and
should be used by manufacturers to provide specific
guidance to consumers as to how much ventilation con-
stitutes “adequate ventilation.”
Providing consumers with the required ventilation
rates and product quantity limitations for indoor appli-
cations of paints, cleaning chemicals, and adhesives
Desiccant and Energy Recovery wheels should significantly reduce adverse health impacts asso-
available in standard and custom sizes. ciated with the use of these products.
Call or email us for a quote today!
References
1. ANSI. 2010. Hazard Evaluation and Safety Data Sheet and
Precautionary Labeling Program. American National Standards
Institute, New York.
2. CDPH. 2017. Standard Method for the Testing and Evaluation of
Volatile Organic Chemical Emissions for Indoor Sources Using Environmental
Chambers, Version 1.1. California Department of Public Health,
Richmond, Calif. https://www.cdph.ca.gov/Programs/CCDPHP/
DEODC/EHLB/IAQ/Pages/VOC.aspx.
3. OSHA. “2017 Occupational Safety and Health
Administration. Permissible Exposure Limits.” Table Z-2,
United States Department of Labor, Washington, D.C.
https://www.osha.gov/dsg/annotated-pels/tablez-2.html
4. OEHHA. 2017. “Proposition 65 Safe Harbor Levels.
No Significant Risk Levels for Carcinogens and Maximum
Allowable Dose Levels for Chemicals Causing Reproductive
Toxicity.” Office of Environmental Health Hazard Assessment.
225 -753 -1700
1700 https://oehha.ca.gov/proposition-65/proposition-65-list.
5. NIOSH. 2017. “Immediately Dangerous to Life or Health
info@rotorsource.com | www.rotorsource.com (IDLH); Methylene Chloride.” National Institute for Occupational
Safety and Health. https://www.cdc.gov/niosh/idlh/75092.html.

76 ASHRAE JOURNAL ashrae.org M A Y 2 0 18


INFO CENTER
SPECIAL ADVERTISING SECTION

Babel Buster BB2-3020-NB


Connect LonWorks Devices to BACnet Networks
•BACnet MS/TP client or server •Supports structured NV’s
•Non-bound polling of LonWorks •Universal, fully configurable
•Up to 300 Network Variables •Free configuration software
•Up to 300 BACnet objects •FCC/CE, UL 916 Listed

PO Box 10789, St. Paul, MN 55110


800-872-8613 sales@csimn.com csimn.com

Select the best value Calculates


Energy and
products for your project! Cost Savings
®
Greenheck eCAPS — Fast, Free
Online Engineer Application Suite
N
• Fans, Louvers, Outdoor-Air EW!
• Cloud-based — no software to install
• Automatically optimizes product selection Belimo Energy Valve™ Savings Estimator Tool
The Energy Valve Savings Estimator Tool compares current plant Delta T against your
by price and performance Delta T improvements from installing Belimo Energy Valves and calculates energy and
cost savings benefits in an easy to read one page format. The Belimo Energy Valve is
• Customize equipment schedules an IoT cloud-connected pressure independent valve that monitors water coil
performance and energy consumption while managing the delta T.
• System Effect Simulator
Download the Savings Estimator Tool at belimo.us
Visit ecaps.greenheck.com to get started.
© 2018 Greenheck

78 ASHRAE JOURNAL ashrae.org M A Y 2 0 18


INFO CENTER
SPECIAL ADVERTISING SECTION

FOAMGLAS INSULATION
®

TRAINING PROGRAMS
Our Technical Services team can provide you with both Get the Most Out of Your
standardized and specially-customized training programs. New Engineers Sooner.
These cover all aspects of working with FOAMGLAS®
insulation on all kinds of systems, utilizing the wide range of
our accessory products. Download our training brochure for
more detailed information at www.foamglas.com

Carrier University has designed a program for engineers


just entering the heating, ventilating and air-conditioning
(HVAC) field. This blended program of hands-on lab
experience along with on-line and classroom coursework
provides an overview of terms, concepts and system
fundamentals to build knowledge and confidence.
www.foamglas.com For more information on our system design courses, contact
1-724-327-6100 I 800-545-5001 your local Carrier expert or visit carrieruniversity.com.

©Carrier Corporation 2/2018. A unit of United Technologies Corporation. Stock symbol UTX.

EVAPCO’s
eco Line of
Cooling Towers:
Sustainability
for Life

Developed by one of the industry’s most experienced teams


of engineers and craftsmen, our eco line of closed circuit coolers
is designed to conserve critical resources. All models include
EVAPCO’s Ellipti-fin® spiral fin coil, which increases efficiency, and
can be optimized with our Pulse-Pure® water treatment system.

Visit evapco.com to discover why EVAPCO is more than a


name—it’s a pledge to be the team you can count on for life.

for LIFE

Since 1976 | An Employee-Owned Company


Commercial HVAC | Industrial Process | Industrial Refrigeration | Power

M A Y 2 0 18 ashrae.org ASHRAE JOURNAL 79


INFO CENTER
SPECIAL ADVERTISING SECTION

RadiPac Ð EC efficiency now available


up to 17.5 hp

The line of radial plenum


fans with GreenTech EC
motor technology has been
REIMAGINING AIR expanded again. The RadiPac
is available with up to 17.5
hp motor options, intelligent
& aerodynamic impeller
design, and high-performance
electronics – suitable for
horizontal and vertical
installations with impeller diameters up to 1250 mm (~50 in).
Thanks to plug and play functionality, it also reduces overall
complexity. One more feature of these fans is their big performance:
up to 8,000 CFM at 8 in. wg. and up to 18,000 CFM various
operating ranges. For more information about air conditioning and
ventilation systems with EC: http://radipac.ebmpapst.us.

Air-Trac architectural diffuser. Designed for comfort.

100 Hyde Road · Farmington, CT 06034 · Phone +1 860 674-1515


www.tnb-hvac.com sales@us.ebmpapst.com · www.ebmpapst.us

THE MOST DURABLE CORROSION-PROOF COOLING TOWERS

Anti-Microbial Minimizes Legionella Risk

Corrosion Proof & 20-Year Warranty

Low Maintenance & Seamless

Low Sound & Save Water

deltacooling.com 800-BUY-DELTA

80 ASHRAE JOURNAL ashrae.org M A Y 2 0 18


INFO CENTER
SPECIAL ADVERTISING SECTION

M A Y 2 0 18 ashrae.org ASHRAE JOURNAL 81


INFO CENTER
SPECIAL ADVERTISING SECTION

All New Ñ Air and Water


Cooled VRV Systems
from a world-leading
HVAC manufacturer NEW

NEW

AURORA™

5 Ton
Module

2, 3 and 4 Ton
Modules

NEW The Interactive Way to


Use Standard 90.1 and
the User’s Manual

Daikin, VRV and their designs are trademarks owned by Daikin. ashrae.org/901portal

82 ASHRAE JOURNAL ashrae.org M A Y 2 0 18


INFO CENTER
SPECIAL ADVERTISING SECTION

PVI AquaPLEX Duplex


Stainless Storage Tanks
PVI AquaPLEX domestic hot water storage tanks
are constructed from duplex stainless steel.
AquaPLEX is ideal for potable water heating
applications as the alloy is highly resistant to
corrosion. AquaPLEX tanks require
no supplemental lining or anode
rods of any type, regardless of
stored water temperature. PVI
provides a 25-year tank warranty
ASHRAE’s #1 Resource for on storage tanks used in gas,
electric, boiler water and
Integrating Building Systems steam-öred storage water
heaters. Tanks are ASME
stamped and range in size
This new edition of ASHRAE GreenGuide is from 125 to 4500 gallons.
an easy-to-use reference with information on Contact PVI for more information
almost any subject that should be considered in on AquaPLEX commercial
green-building design. water heaters (800-784-8326).

ashrae.org/greenguide

www.pvi.com

M A Y 2 0 18 ashrae.org ASHRAE JOURNAL 83


COLUMN REFRIGERATION APPLICATIONS

Andy Pearson

Anyone for Entropy?


BY ANDY PEARSON, PH.D., C.ENG., FELLOW ASHRAE

It’s very easy to be confused by some of the concepts of thermodynamics. Most people
have an innate understanding of temperature, although some folks sometimes find it
difficult to work out whether –18° is higher or lower than –20°. Heat is a little bit more
confusing. A typical question would be “how can something contain heat if it is cold?”
The conversion of heat to work and back again raises In the same year James Clerk Maxwell, one of Gibbs’
further questions, like “how can you say that these greatest supporters, noted that thermodynamics would
things that are so obviously different are equivalent?” probably need to have been taught for several genera-
The answer is that they are both different forms of tions before beginners would be willing or able to accept
energy, or “enthalpy.” This is a bit like saying baroque the increase of entropy as an axiomatic truth. One of
chorales and heavy rock are both forms of music; they the most common problems in comprehension is that a
each have their place and perform very different roles condition of increased entropy is described technically
in society. The two forms can co-exist and a skilled as “increased disorder” but this, in fact, relates to the
musician can even combine them to great effect. situation where the energy has been evenly distributed
Digging deeper into thermodynamics throughout a system, so there is less scope
Order or chaos?
we get to the concept of entropy; defined for transfer of energy from one part to
as a measure of the way in which energy another. For many people, this sounds more
is distributed at a given temperature orderly, or “smoother,” not disordered
level. This is absolutely not an intuitive at all. It is hard to see a system where all
concept and it is remarkable that the the energy is lumped into a few locations
great thinkers of the 19th century were as smoother than one where the energy is
able to formalize the idea without a clear vision of what evenly spread everywhere, but in terms of entropy that’s
was happening at the atomic level. The first person to how it is. Once all the energy in the universe is no longer
define entropy formally was the Polish scientist Rudolf clumped together but is uniformly spread there will be
Clausius in 1865, while he was a professor at the Zurich no prospect of any further heat or work conversion. This
Institute of Technology, ETH, in Switzerland. Clausius is, thankfully, very far off in the future, but in terms of the
focused on the change of entropy during a heat trans- everyday challenges we face in refrigeration engineering
fer process, which he said was the reversible heat there is immediate value through improvement of sys-
transfer divided by the absolute temperature at which tem efficiency in ensuring that the increase in entropy
the heat is transferred. Later definitions tend to con- that our systems create is kept as small as possible.
centrate on the atomic scale and talk more about the All of this musing about entropy was prompted by
probability that an atom will be in a particular micro- news of the death of Professor Stephen Hawking earlier
state. All this leads me to agree with the American this year. Hawking raised bafflement about entropy
scientist Professor Willard Gibbs, who said in 1873, to new levels by calculating that the entropy of a black
“Any method involving the notion of entropy, the very hole was proportional to its surface area multiplied by
existence of which depends on the second law of ther- a handful of universal constants. I think Willard Gibbs
modynamics, will doubtless seem to many far-fetched, would have wholeheartedly approved.
and may repel beginners as obscure and difficult of
comprehension.” Andy Pearson, Ph.D., C.Eng., is group managing director at Star Refrigeration in Glasgow, UK.

84 ASHRAE JOURNAL ashrae.org M A Y 2 0 18


SPECIAL PRODUCTS

DATA CENTERS
Air Displacement System
DataSox from DuctSox, Peosta, Iowa, is a To receive FREE info on the
directionally adjustable air-displacement
products in this section, go to:
system designed for data center applications.
DataSox’s air displacement places large www.ashrae.org/freeinfo
amounts of air within the cold aisle of the
Air Displacement System data center with low velocity, while the
adjustable nozzles allow for higher wattage server targeting for minimum spillage and
By DuctSox
better PUE.
www.info.hotims.com/69639-151

Louver
Ruskin, Grandview, Mo., introduces the
XP500WD wind-driven rain FEMA louver,

FOAMGLAS
® which provides FEMA impact protection
and Class A wind-driven rain protection. It

INSULATION
is designed to save designers and builders
installation time and cost in applications such
as data centers.
www.info.hotims.com/69639-152
AN EXCELLENT CHOICE FOR HVAC APPLICATIONS
Scroll Compressors
AAON, Tulsa, Okla., offers two-step scroll
FOAMGLAS® compressors on RN/RQ Series rooftop units,
INSULATION PROPERTIES CF Series condensing units and WH/WV
• 100% Moisture Impermeable
• Constant Thermal Efficiency
Series water-source heat pumps. They deliver
• Resistant to Fire – Will Not Burn improved efficiency and capacity control,
• Mold and Mildew Resistant with a simple refrigeration system and simple
• No Toxic Blowing Agents control to meet the specifications of data
• Superior Compressive Strength center applications.
www.info.hotims.com/69639-153
FOAMGLAS®
INSULATION SERVICES
• Education & Training Mini-Split AC
• Energy & Thermal Imaging Surveys P-Series systems from Mitsubishi Electric,
• Insulation Thickness Calculations Cypress, Calif., are designed to deliver
• Insulation Guide Specifications maximum comfort and energy savings for
• Jobsite & Start-Up Support large, high-demand spaces such as data
• Special Testing Services
centers. With cooling operation down to –20°F
(–29°C) and 24-hour cooling, the systems are
ideal for critical cooling applications.
Contact us to learn more
www.foamglas.com www.info.hotims.com/69639-154
1-724-327-6100 I 800-545-5001
Condensing Unit
The new VRV T-Series Water Cooled
condensing unit from Daikin North America,
Carrollton, Texas, is engineered for buildings
with cooling tower water loops or geothermal
applications.
www.info.hotims.com/69639-155

Airflow Management System


The Geist Cool containment system from Geist,
Lincoln, Neb., uses the company’s ActiveAir
intelligent airflow management technology to
contain heat via chimneys and enclosures, and
to expel heat directly to the CRAC units using
sophisticated pressure sensors to control fan
©2018 Owens Corning. All Rights Reserved.
speed and exhaust hot air.
www.info.hotims.com/69639-156

86 ASHRAE JOURNAL ashrae.org M A Y 2 0 18


CLASSIFIEDS

RATE SCHEDULE: SOFTWARE

Everything Your Reps Need…


Classified line advertisements Elite Software ...to increase sales
are inserted in 7-point type at the CHVAC ASHRAE Based HVAC Load Calcs
DUCTSIZE ASHRAE Based Duct Design
rate of $4.00 per word. This Energy Pro Building Energy Analysis For All HVAC Products
includes heading and address. HTOOLS Refrigerant Line, Gas Pipe Sizing, More

Maximum insertion 15 lines. Prices


HEAVENT Industrial Ventilation & Exhaust Selection
PSYCHART Graphic Psychrometric Analysis
are net. Classified line insertions REFRIG Refrigeration Box Loads Pricing / Configuration
for members are $2.00 per word.
HSYM Chilled & Hot Water Pipe Sizing Submittals
FIRE Fire Sprinkler Hydraulic Calculations
GASVENT Category 1 Gas Vent Sizing Parts
ETOOLS Wire Sizing, Voltage Drop, and More Customer Support
Classified Column Inch DETAILS Hvac, Elec, Plbg, Fire CAD Detail Files
Border Advertisements RHVAC ACCA Approved Manual J, D, & S Calcs
More...
Both Desktop and Online Versions
are inserted in 8-point bold heading www.bcatech.com
and address type of 7-point body 800-648-9523 407-
407-659-
659-0653
type at the rate of $125.00 per Download free software at
column inch, includes heading and www.elitesoft.com
address. Maximum length 5 inches.
Maximum width 2-1/8”. Prices are
net. Border classified insertions for Green
members are $65.00 per column
inch. BIM Energy Simulation
> Easy to learn and use GUI, similar
Classifieds are accepted in the to AutoCAD®/IntelliCAD®
categories of Job Opportunities, FineGREEN utilizes a familiar CAD interface, which
Rentals, Business Opportunities, makes you feel as if you already know it.

and Software. > Full DWG and IFC Compatibility


FineGREEN can import any DWG file, as well as any 3D
IFC BIM architectural model from other programs like
Closing date: Revit®, Archicad®, Vectorworks®, SketchUp Pro® or
Copy must be received by the equivalent.

classified department by the 3rd of > Smart 3D BIM Model


the month preceding date of issue. FineGREEN allows the user to work directly on the real
3D ΒΙΜ model to perform both, geometrical and PROTOCOL INTEGRATION SOLUTIONS
intelligent/logical BIM operations within an open energy BACnet, Modbus, KNX, WIFI, LON
simulation environment. Daikin, Mitsubishi, Fujitsu, LG & others

> EnergyPlus based Calculations


Address: Send request for further FineGREEN embeds the EnergyPlus (e+) calculation
information to: engine (sponsored by DOE) ensuring reliability of results.
4M belongs to the e+ 3rd party interface developers.

ASHRAE JOURNAL > Seamless Integration with


Vanessa Johnson FineHVAC and FineMEP
FineGREEN belongs to the 4M BIM Suite including also
1791 Tullie Circle NE www.intesisbox.com ¥ sales@intesis.com
Architectural Design (IDEA) and Mechanical /Electrical
Atlanta, GA 30329 Services (FINE-MEP), within a collaborative environment

Phone 678-539-1166 BUSINESS OPPORTUNITIES


Fax 678-539-2166
E-mail: vjohnson@ashrae.org Industrial HVAC & R Design Analysis
By Jack Chiu, PE
• Practical Manual
info@4msa.com, www.4mbim.com, www.4msa.com • Psychrometric Analysis
• System Flow Diagram
• Check for accuracy

CLASSIFIED ADS are ALWAYS • Quick Reference including:


› Constant T & H System Design
› Precise Air Conditioning System Design
PRODUCTIVE › Cleaning Room System Design
› Super Dry Dehumidication Design
› Cold Storage Design
Contact Vanessa Johnson, Ad Productions & Visit Amazon.com
Operations Coordinator at 678-539-1166 for a quote. Price $93.00

M AY 2 0 1 8 ashrae.org ASHRAE JOURNAL 87


ADVERTISING SALES
Advertisers Index/Reader Service Information ASHRAE JOURNAL
1791 Tullie Circle NE | Atlanta, GA 30329
Two fast and easy ways to get additional information on (404) 636-8400 | Fax: (678) 539-2174
products & services in this issue: www.ashrae.org
Greg Martin | gmartin@ashrae.org
Associate Publisher, ASHRAE Media Advertising
Go to www.ashrae.org/freeinfo to search for products by category or Vanessa Johnson | vjohnson@ashrae.org
Advertising Production Coordinator
company name. Plus, link directly to advertisers’ Web sites or request
information by e-mail, fax or mail. NORTHEAST U.S.
Nelson & Miller Associates –
Denis O’Malley
5 Hillandale Ave., Suite 101
Stamford, CT 06902
(203) 356-9694 | Fax (203) 356-9695
*Regional sales@nelsonmiller.com
Company Page Company Page Company Page

*Arkema Inc. ............................... 65 Delta Cooling Towers................. 80 Parker/Sporlan Valve................. 43 SOUTHEAST U.S.
Millennium Media, Inc. –
*ASHRAE Technology Portal .... 65 ebm-papst Inc ............................ 80 590 Hickory Flat Road
Petra Eng..................................... 61
Alpharetta, GA 30004
Doug Fix (770) 740-2078 | Fax (678) 405-3327
AAON Inc ......................................17 Ebtron Inc............................3rd Cvr Pottorff......................................... 82 Lori Gernand-Kirtley (281) 855-0470 | Fax (281) 855-4219
dfix@bellsouth.net; lg@lindenassoc.com
AAON Inc ..................................... 83 Evapco, Inc.................................. 79
PVI Industries............................. 20
OHIO VALLEY U.S.
Aerco International Inc ............... 7 Fujitsu General America, Inc ... 59
PVI Industries............................. 83 LaRich & Associates – Tom Lasch
512 East Washington St.
Aerco International Inc ............. 81 Genesis International................ 72 Chagrin Falls, OH 44022
Reliable Controls.......................... 2 tlasch@larichadv.com
AHR Expo Atlanta 2019 .............13 (440) 247-1060 | Fax (440) 247-1068
Greenheck.................................... 25
Reliable Controls........................ 81
AHRI ............................................. 73 Greenheck.................................... 78 MIDWEST U.S.
RenewAire, LLC........................... 39 Kingwill Company – Baird Kingwill; Jim Kingwill
A-J Manufacturing Co Inc.......... 8 Greentrol Automation Inc ......... 21 664 Milwaukee Avenue, Suite 201
Prospect Heights, IL 60070
Rotor Source, Inc....................... 76 (847) 537-9196 | Fax (847) 537-6519
ASHRAE Standard 90.1 Portal......82 Hisense ........................................ 77 barry@kingwillco.com; jim@kingwillco.com
Ruskin ............................................ 6
ASHRAE GreenGuide ................. 83 Krueger ........................................ 27
SOUTHWEST U.S.
Automatic Airflow Balancing ... 34 Schneider Electric ..................... 71 Lindenberger & Associates, Inc. –
Metraflex ..................................... 22 Gary Lindenberger; Lori Gernand-Kirtley
7007 Winding Walk Drive, Suite 100
Belimo Aircontrols USA ............ 53 *Mitsubishi Electric Sales Canada Seasons-4 Inc............................. 26 Houston, TX 77095
(281) 855-0470 | Fax (281) 855-4219
Inc................................................. 65 gl@lindenassoc.com; lg@lindenassoc.com
Belimo Aircontrols USA ............ 78 Seiho International .................... 51
Mitsubishi Electric & Electronics
Bosch Thermotechnology Corp...57 Sentech Corp .............................. 78 CANADA & WEST U.S.
USA Inc.........................................11
LaRich & Associates – Nick LaRich, Tom Lasch
Bosch Thermotechnology Corp...80 512 East Washington St.
Munters Corp.............................. 31 Shortridge Instruments Inc. .... 66 Chagrin Falls, OH 44022
nlarich@larichadv.com
Bradford White Corp ................. 75 tlasch@larichadv.com
Munters Corp......................4th Cvr Shuangliang Eco-Energy Systems
(440) 247-1060 | Fax (440) 247-1068
Bradford White Corp ................. 82 Co. Ltd.......................................... 85
Munters Corp.............................. 81
Cambridge Engineering............. 42 Taco Inc........................................ 47 KOREA
Onicon Inc ..................................... 9 YJP & Valued Media Co., Ltd – YongJin Park
Kwang-il Building #905, Dadong-gil 5
Carrier Corp .................................. 5 Tjernlund Products, Inc ............ 81 Jung-gu, Seoul 04521, Korea
Owens Corning ........................... 86 82-2 3789-6888 | Fax: 82-2 3789-8988
Carrier Corp ................................ 79 hi@YJPvm.kr
Owens Corning ........................... 79 Topog-E Gasket Co..................... 83
Control Solutions ....................... 78
Panasonic Applicance Air Trane Commercial ...................... 35 INTERNATIONAL
Steve Comstock
Daikin North America LLC............. Conditioning N.A......................... 23 (404) 636-8400 | comstock@ashrae.org
..........................................2nd Cvr-1 Tuttle & Bailey............................ 80
Panasonic Applicance Air
Whalen Company, The .............. 82 RECRUITMENT ADVERTISING AND REPRINTS
Daikin North America LLC........ 82 Conditioning N.A......................... 79 ASHRAE – Greg Martin
(678) 539-1174 | gmartin@ashrae.org
Data Aire Inc................................10 Parker Boiler Co......................... 72 Whalen Company, The .............. 58

88 ASHRAE JOURNAL ashrae.org M A Y 2 0 18


DEMAND CONTROL VENTILATION SOLUTIONS

A MEASURABLE DIFFERENCE FOR OVER 30 YEARS!


Outdoor Air Delivery Monitoring
Contact EBTRON for the Demand Control Ventilation Systems
name of your local Fan & Fan Array Airflow Measurement
representative and a copy
Building Pressure Solutions
of our condensed
product catalog today!
Hospital & Medical Facility Airflow Measurement
Laboratory & Clean Room Pressurization

EBTRON, Inc. | 1663 HWY 701 S., Loris, S.C. 29569 | Internet: EBTRON.com | Phone: 800 2 EBTRON | email: sales@ebtron.com
 clas
srooms
 labo  ice a
ratorie renas
sg
 libra ymnas
iums
ries
 cafe  lock
terias e r rooms
 mus
ic halls

DryCool™ ERV: The smartest choice in DOAS  aud


 dorm
itorium
itories
s

• High efficiency energy recovery ventilator (ERV)


with dehumidification
• Moisture Removal Efficiency (MRE) rating as high as 10.8
for quick payback
• GREENGUARD GOLD certified desiccant rotor ensures
VOCs are not emitted
• Helps prevent mold growth
• Provides optimum indoor air quality (IAQ) and comfort
• Helps earn LEED credits
• Dedicated outdoor air system (DOAS) uses less energy to
meet the requirements of ASHRAE Standards 62 and 90.1
• Delivers neutral dry air

+1 800 843 5360 | E-mail: dhinfo@munters.com www.munters.com/schools

You might also like