COMFORT CONDITIONS ‘An understanding of the principles af roorn air disti- bution helps in the selection, design, control and op- eration of HVAG air duct systems. The real evaluation of air distriution in a space, however, requires an affirmative answer to the question: “Are the occu: pants comfortable?” The object of good air distribu tion in HVAC systems is to create the proper combi- nation of temperature, humigity and air mation, in the ‘occupied zone ofthe conditioned room trom the floor 0 6 feet (2m) abave floor level. To obtain comfort conditions within this zone, standard limits have been established as acceptable effective dratt tompera- ture. This term includes air temperatura, air motion, relative humidity, and their physiological effects on the human body. Ary variation from accepted standards of one of these elements causes discomfort to oc- cupants. Lack of uniform conditions within the space cr excessive fluctuation of candiionstin the same part of the space may produce similar effects, ‘Although the percentage of room occupants who ob- ject to certain conditions may change over the years, Figures 3+1 and 3-2 provide insight into possible ob- eetives of room air distribution, The data show that ‘8 person tolerates higher velocities and lower tem- peratures at ankle level than at neck level. Because Of this, conditions in the zone extending from approx: imately 30 to 60 inches (0.75 to 1.5 m) above the floor ‘are more eritical than conditions nearer the floor. Room air velocities less than 80 fpm (0.25 mis) are acceptable: However, Figure 3-1 and 3-2 show that even higher velocities may be acceptable to sorne ‘occupants. ASHRAE Standard 55-1981 recom merds elevated air speeds al elevated air tempera- tures. No minimum air speeds are recornmendad for ‘comfort, although aie speeds below 20 pm (01 mis) are usually imperceptible. Figure 9-1 shows that up to 20 percent of occupants will not accept an ankle-to-sitiing-level gradient of about °F (2°C). Poorly designed or operated sys- foms in a heaiing made can oreate this condition, which emphasizes the importance of proper selection and operation of perimeter systems. ‘To define the difference (0) in stiective draft temper- CHAPTER 3 ROOM AIR DISTRIBUTION ature between any point in the occupied zone and the control condition, the following equation is used: Equation 1 0 = -t) ~ atv, ~ b) where (U.S. Units: clfective draft temperature, °F {= local airstream dry-bulb temperature, “F 1, = average room dry-bulb temperature, °F \V, = local airstream velocity, tem = 007 b= 20 whore (Motric Units): effective draft temperature, °C = local airstream dry-bulb temperature, °C = average room dry-bulb temperature, °C = local airstream velocity, mis a=8 b= 0.15 Equation 3-1 accounts for the feeling of “coolness” produced by air motion and is used to establish the eviral line in Figures 3-1 and 3-2. In summer, the local airstream temperature, t, is below the contral temperature. Hence, both temperature and velacity terms are negative whan velocity, Vis greater thant 30 fpm (0: mis) and bath of them add to the feeling of coolness. Il, in winter, t, is abave the contral tem perature, any air velocity above 30 fpm (015 mis} subtracts irom the feeling of warmth produced by t.. ‘Therefore, itis usually possible to have zero difer- ence in effective temperature between location, x. and the control point in winter, But not in summer, AIR DIFFUSION PERFORMANCE INDEX (ADPI) 1. Comfort Criteria A high poreentage of people are comfortable in se- dentary (alfice) occupations where the effective draft temperature (8), 28 defined in Equation 3-1, is be- tween -2°F and + 2°F (-.7°C and + 11°C) and the odg Ege 8 Sas ‘TEMPERATURE DIFFERENCE °F 1 ANE REGION 3 arate TEMPERATURE DIFFERENCE (8) NECK RESIN Figure 3-1 PERCENTAGE OF OCCUPANTS OBJECTING TO DRAFTS IN AIR-CONDITIONED ROOMS (U.S. UNITS) (2) air volocity is less than 70 fpr (0.35m’s). if many measurements of air voloeity and air temperature ‘were made throughout the occupied zone of an office, the ADP) would be datined a the percentage of lo- cations where measurements wove taken that meet the previous specifications on effective craft temper- ature and air velocity tthe ADPL is maximum (ap- Proaching 100 percent), the most desirable conditions ‘are achioved. ‘ADPI is based only on air velocity and elfective draft temperature, a combination of local temperature dtt- ferences tram the room averaga, and is nat directly Folated fo the lovel of dry-bulb temperature or rélative 82 ROOM AIR DISTRIBUTION ef TEMPERATURE OIFFERESCE, 6 (A ANKLE RECON ree 5 5 § co 2 + —3 ‘TEMPEAATURE DIFFERENCE, *C IBINECK REGION Figure 3-2 PERCENTAGE OF OCCUPANTS ‘OBJECTING TO DRAFTS IN AIR-CONDITIONED ROOMS (METRIC UNITS) (2) humidity, These and similar effects, such as mean radiant temperature, must be sccounted for sepa- rately according to ASHRAE recommendations. ADP! is a measure of cooing mode conditions. Heat- ing canditlons can be evaluated using ASHAE Stan- dard $5-1081R guidelines oF the ISO Standard 7730- 89, "Comtort Equations." The following cooling zone design citera fer the var- fous air ditfusion devices maximize the ADPI and ‘comfort. These criteria also account for airflow rate, ‘outlet size, manutacturer’s design qualities, and die ‘mensions Of the room for whieh the system is dé- signedee 2. Definitions A. THROW ‘The throw of a jet is the distance trom the outlet device to a paintin the airstream where the maximum velocity In the stream cross section has been re- duced to a selected terminal velocity. Far all devices, the terminal welocity, V, was Selactod 85 50 fom (0.25 mis) exceptin the case of celing sot diffusers, where the terminal velocity was selected as 100 fpm (0.5 rw! +), Data forthe throw of a jot from various outlets are ‘generally given by each manufactures for isothermal jet conditions and without boundary walls interfering ‘with the jet. Throw data cerified under Air Diffusion ‘Council (ADC) Equipment Test Code 1062GRD-84 must be taken under isothermal conditions. Throw data not certitied by ADC may be isothormal or not, as tha manvtacturer chooses. ASHRAE Standard 70- TAR also includes specitications for reporting throw _ ata. B. THROW DISTANCE ‘The throw distance of a jet is denoted by the symbol where the subscript indicates the terminal velocity for which the thraw is given. ‘C. CHARACTERISTIC ROOM LENGTH ‘The characteristic room fength (L) is the distance from the outlet device to the nearest boundary wall inthe principal horizertal direction of the airflow. How. ‘ever, where air Injected into the room does not inn= pinge on a wall surface but mixes with air from a naighboting cutlet, the characteristic length (L) is ‘one-half the distance between oullels, plus the dis- ‘tance the mixed jets must travel downward to reach the occupied zone. Table 3-1 summarizes definitions of characteristic length for various devices. D. MIDPLANE The midplane between outlets aiso can be consid- ered the module line when autlets serve equal mod Ules throughout a space, and characteristic length consideration can then be based on module diman- sions. 3. Load Considerations ‘These recommendations cover coating loads of up to 80 Btuih-f (250 Wim) of floor surface, The loading is distributed uniformly over the floor up to about 7 Biuth-f° (22 Wim), lighting contributes about 10 Btu! inf (81 Wim?) and the remainder is supplied by @ CHAPTERS Table 3-1 CHARACTERISTIC ROOM LENGTH FOR DIFFUSERS Diftuser Type ——-Charactoristio Length, ¢ High Siewall Grile Distance to wal perpendicular to jet Circular Ceiling —_—_—Distance to ckasest wall or Ditfuser intersecting air jot Sill Grille Length of room in the irection of the jat flow Ceiling Slot Diffuser Distance to wall or midplane between outlets. Light Totter Diftusers Distance to midplane between cutlets, plus distance from ceiling to top of occupied zone Perforated, Louvered Distance to wall or midplane Ceiling Diffusers between cutiets concentrated load against one wall that simulated a business machine oF a large sunloaded window. Qver this range of data the maximum ADPI condition is lower for the highest loads; however, the optimutn sign conditian changes only slightly with the load. 4. Design Conditions The quantity of air must be known from other design specifications, tit is not known, the solution must be obtained by a trial and error technique. ‘The devices for which data were obtained are (1) high sidewall grille, (2) sil grile, (3) two and four-siot ceiling ditlusers, (4) conetype circular ceiling diffus- crs, (5) light trtfer diffusers, and (6) square-taced perforated and louvered ceiling diffusers. Table 3-2 ‘summarizes the results cf the recommendations on values of TL by giving the value of TVL where the ADP! is a maximum for various loads, as well as & range of values T/L where ADPI is above a minimum specifisd value. 5. Outlet Type Selection No criteria have been established for choosing among the six types of outlets to obtain an optimum DPI. All outlets tested, when used according to these recommendations, can have ADPI values that are satisiactory [greater than 90 percent for loads: less than 40 Bturhsit® (126 itr). a3= ROOM AIR DISTRIBUTION Table 3-2 AIR DIFFUSION PERFORMANCE INDEX (ADP!) SELECTION GUIDE (2) Terminal Room Load Room Load Tyx/L_ Maximum For ADP! Range af Device Btu Wim? forMax. ADPI = ADP! = Greater Than Ty ail. High 80 250 18 68 - = Sidawall 60 190 18 7 70 1.522 Gries 40 125 16 78 70 1223 20 6 18 85 80 1.019 80 280 o8 76 70 60 190 08 83 80 40 128 08 88 80 20 65 08 33 30 Sil Grille 80 250 Ww 61 60 Straight 60 430 7 72 70 blades 40 125 13 86 80 20 65 08 95, 90 Grille 80 250 07 a4 90 ‘Spread 60 190 07 a4 80 blades: 40 125 O27 a4 = 20 65 07 94 - Ceiling 80, 250 ot a5 80 Slot 60, 190 03° 38 80 Diffusers (for Toy) 40, 125, oa a ®0 20 85 03 92 80 Light 60 190 25 88 80 Tatfor 40 125, 10 92 90 ittusers 20 65 10 95, 0 Perlorated and Louvered 11-51 35-160 20 96 90 1427 Ceiling Diffusers, ~ — ~ - 80 1.0.34 * Given for Foul 6. Design Procedure 4} Determine the air volume requirements and room size. b) Select the tentative outlet type and location within room, ©} Determine the room's characteristic length (L) (Table 3-1). ) Select the recommended T/L ratio trom Table 32, €} Calculate the throw distance (T,} by multiplying, the recommended T/L ratie from Table 3-2 by the room length (L). a4 ) Locate the appropriate outlet size from manu facturer's catalog. 4g) Ensure that this outlet meets other imposed specifications, such as noise and static pras- sure. 3-1 (U.S. Units) Specifications: Room Size: 20 f by 12 ftwith 9, ceiling ‘Type deves: High sidewall gril, located at the center of 12 ft endwall, 9 in. rom ceiling, Loading: Uniform, 10 Btu. oF 2400 Btu Air Nolure: ¢ cfm?’ or 240 cim for the one outletData Required: Characteristic length: (L) = 20 ft (length of room: Table 3-1 Recommended Tw/L = 1.5 (Table 3-2) Throw to 80 fpm = Tay = 18 x 2 301 Solution Refer to the manufacturer's catalog for a size that ives this isothermal throw to 50 fpr, Manufacturer recommends the following sizes, when blades are straight, discharging 240 cim: 16 in. by 4 in., 12 in by 5 in. or 10 in, by 6 in. Example 3-1 (Metric Units) ‘Specifications: oom size: 6000 by 4000 mm with 2500 mm high ceiling ‘Type Device: High sidewall gre, located at the ‘center of 4600 mm endwall, 230 mm from ceiling Loading: Uniform, 90 Wim? or 720 W Air Volume: 0.5 Us per m? or 120 I's per outlet Data Required: Characteristic length L = 6000 mm (length of 15 (Table 3-3) Tuas = 156 = 9m Solution olor to the manutactue’s catalog for a size that gives this isothermal throw to. 0.25 m/s. Manufacturer recommends the folowing sizes, when blades are CEILING CHAPTER straight, discharging 120 lis: 400 mm by 100 mm, 300 mm by 125 mm or 250 mm by 125 mm AIR DISTRIBUTION FUNDAMENTALS. 1. Air Diffusion ‘Conditioned air normally is supplied to air outlets at velocities much greater than thase acceptable in the ‘occupied zone. Canditioned air temperature may be above, below, or equal to tha air. Proper air diffusion, therefore, ealls for entrainment of room alr by the primary eirstream outside the zane of ocoupancy to reduce air motion and temperature differences to ac- ‘coptatle limits before the air enters the occupied zone, “This process of entrainment of secondary air into the primary air is an essential part of air distribution to ‘create total air movement within the room, This pro- ‘2088 also will tend to overtone natural convection and radiation effects within the room, thereby elimi- nating stagnant air areas and reducing ternperature \ifferenees to acceptable lavels before the air enters the occupied zone. 2. Surface (Coanda} Effect Drawings A and B of Figure 3-3 ilustrata the Coanda effect phenomenon, Since turbulent jet airfiow from a SEPARATION BUBBLE CEILING JET FLOW == | |S = eo oO a ENTRAINED AIRFLOW ENTRAINED AIRFLOW 3 SECONDARY AlN) (SECONDARY AIA) sisca soon (A) () Figure 3-3 SURFACE (COANDA) EFFECT 36a tila oF diffuser is dynamically unstable, it may veer Tapxily back and forth, When the jet airiow veers close to a parallel and adjacent wall or ceilings, the surface interrupts the flow path on that side as shown in Figure 3-3 (8), The resuitis that no more second: ay airs flowing on that side ta replace the air being entrained with the jet aictiow This causes a lowering of the pressure on that side of the outlet device, cre ating @ low-pressure bubble that causes the jt airfiour to become stable and remain attached to tne adjacent surface throughout the length of the throw: The sur- face effect counteracts the drop of horizontally pro ected cool airstreams. Ceiling diffusers exhibit surface elfect to a high de (ree because a circular air pattern blankets the entire coiling area surrourdding each oullel. Slot diffusers, which discharge the airstream across the ceiling, ox: hibit surtace effect only if they are long enough to blanket the ceiling area. Griles exhibit varying de- arees of surface elfect, depending on the spread of the partoular air pattorn In many installations, the outlets must be mouried on an exposed duct and discharge the airstream into free space. In this type of installation, the airstream entrains air on both its upper ard ower surfaces: as a resutt, a higher rate of entrainment is obtained and the throw is shortened by about 33 percent, Airilow ‘er unit area for these types of outlets can, theretore, be increased. Because theres no surface effect fram ceiling diffusers installed on the bottom of exposed ‘ducts, the air drops rapidly to the floor Therefore, temperature dliferentials in airconditioning systems must be restricted ta a range of 15°F to 20°F (8°C to 11°C), Acstreams from slot difusers and grilles show ‘@ marked tendency to drop because of the lack of surface effect 3. Smudging Smudging may be a problem with celing and slot diffusers. Dir particles held in suspension in the sec tondary (toom) air are subjected to turbulence at the outlet face. This turbulence, along with suriace effect, is piimarty responsible for smudging. Smudging can be expected in areas of high pedestrian trafic (lob- ies, stores, ee.) When ceiling diffusers are inslalled on smooth ceilings (such as plaster, mineral tie, and metal pan), smudging is usually in the form of @ na row band of discoloration around the diffuser. Anti- ‘smudge rings may reduce this type of smudging. On highly textured ceiling surfaces (such as rough plas- ter and spreyod-on-composition), smudging often o¢ curs over a moze extensive area 36 ROOM AIR DIGTRIBUTION 4. Sound Level ‘The sound level of an outlet 1S a function of tha dis- charge velocity and the transmission of systemic Noise, which is a function of the size of the outlet. Higher frequency sounds can be the result of exces- sive outlet voloctty but may also be generated in the duct by the moving airstream. Loaer-pitched sounds are generally the result of mechanical equipment noise transmitted through the duct system and outlet. ‘The cause of higher trequency sounds can be pin- painted as outlet or systemic sounds by ramoving the outlet during operation. A reduction in sound level indicated thal the outlet is causing nose. If the sound level remains essentially unchanged, the systemisat faut, Chaptor 42 “Sound ang Vibration Control" in the 1891 ASHRAE "HVAC Applicatians* handbook has mote informaifon an design criteria, ‘acoustic treatment, and selection procedures. 5. Effect of Blades Blades atfect grille performance if their depth is at least equal to the distance between the Blades. I the blade ralia is less than one, effective control of the airstream discharged from the gril by moans of the blades is impossible. Increasing the blade ratio above two has hte of no effect, so Blade ralias should be between one and two. ‘A gril discharging air unitormly forward (blades in straight position) has a spread of 14” to 24°, depend ing en the type of Outlot, duct approach, and 3is- charge velocity. Turning the blades influences the di- rection and throw of the discharged airstream, A grille with diverging blades (vertical blades with Uniformly increasing angular detection from the cen: tedline to 4 maximum at each end of 45°) has a spread of about 60°, and reduces the threw consigerably. With increasing divergence. the quantity of air dis: charged by a gribe for a given upstream total pres sure decreases, A gio wrth converging blades (vertical biades with Uniformily decreasing angular dellection from the centerline) has a slightly higher theory than & grille with straight blades, but the spread is approximately the same for both settings, The airstream converges slightly lor @ short distance in front of he outlet ard then spreads more rapidly than air discharged from a grille with straight blades In addition to vertical blades that normally spread the air horizontally, horizontal blades may spread the aira vertically. However, spreading the alr vericaly risks hittiag beams or other obstructions oF blowing primary air al excessive velocities iio the oocupied zone. On the other hard, vertical deflection may increase ac herence to the ceiling and reduce the drop Ingpacee with expased beams, the outlots shoul! bo located below the bottom of the Iorest bearn level preferably ow enough to employ an upward er arched air path. The air path should be arched sutficienty 10 rise the beams and prevent the primarily or induced airstream from striking funiture and obstacles and predueing objectionable drafts, 6. Duct Approaches to Outlets The manner in which the airstream is introduced into the outlet is important, To obtain correct air cifusion, the velocity of the airstream rust be as uniform as possible over the entire connection to the duct and ‘must be perpencicular to the outlet face. No air outlet can compensate for air flow fram an improper duct spproach. OHAPIRE & ‘A wall grille installed at the end of a long horizontal Suct and a ceiling outiat at the end of a long vertical duct receive the air perpendicularly and at uniform volocity over the entire duct cross section, ifthe sys tem is designed carefully, However, few outlets are installed in this way Most sidewall outlets are in. stalled either at the end of vertical ducts or in the side ‘of horizontal ducts, and most eeiling cutlets are at- tached either directly to the bottom of harizontal ducts ‘of to special vertical takeo!! ducts that connect the ‘outlet with the horizontal duct. In all these cases, ‘special devices for directing and equakzing the art ‘low are necessary for proper direction and diffusion ‘af the ait A. STACK HEADS “Tests conducted with the stack heads indicated that sspliters or turning vanes in the elbows at the top of ‘he vertical stacks were needed, regardiess of the ‘shape of the elbows (whether rounded, square or ‘expanding types). Cushion chambers at the top of ‘he stack heads are not benelicial, Figure 3-4 shows Oem 600 o ms 8 ‘Stack, 14 6 in. (980 150 mm); Outlets 14 Oi, (350 x 225 mun} Stack Weroety. 500 fpm (25 m's} ‘A. Rounded Throat and Rounded Bact. 2B. Rounded Throat and Back and 2 Spfiters. 6, Square Throat and Back and Turning Vanes. Figure 3-4 QUTLET VELOCITY AND AIR DIRECTION DIAGRAMS FOR ‘STACK HEADS WITH EXPANDING OUTLETS a7ee the direction of fw. diffusion, and velocity [measured 12 inches (800 mm} from opening] at the air for var~ lous stack heads tested, expanding from a 14 in, by 6 in, (350 mm x 150 mm) stack to a 14 in. by 9 in (@50 mm x 225 mm) opening, without grille. Tho ait velocity for cach was 500 fpm (2.5 m’s) in the stack below the elbow, but the direction of flow and the diffusion pattern indicate periormance obtained with enexpanding elbows of similar shapes, for velocities from 200 t0 400 fpm. (1 to 2 rms). In tests conducted with 3 in, by 10 in, (75 mm x 280 mm), 4 in by 9 in., and 6 in. by 6 in. (150 mm x 460 men}, side oullats in a 6 in, by 20 in. horzontal duct at duct velocities of 200 to 400 fpm (1 to 7 mis} in the horizontal duct section, muliple curved deflectors praducad the best flow characteristics. Vertical guide strips in the outlet were not as effective as curved deflectors. A single scaop-type dellecior al the outlet did not improve the flow patton obtained troma plain cutlet and, therefore, was not desirable. B. BRANCH TAKEOFFS SMAONA duct fitieg research at the ETL Laborato- rigs and the SMAGNA “bubbie” airflow research viceo have shown, both from duet traverse pressure read ings and trom visual observation of sirlow with en- trained saap bubbles, that aidiow in branch ducts has 2 non-uniform profile. Regardless of the type of de. vce used and the type of ap or branch fitting, most of the airflow is found in the downstream portion of the branch duct: The upsiream portion of the branch duct contains either reverse flow back (toward tne main duct) or swiring iwbulence. See the discussion in Chapter 5, Section E "Dynamic Losses OUTLET LOCATION The building's use, size and consiruction type, must be considered in designing the air cieibution sy3- tem, and in selecting the type and location of the Supply outlets. Location and salecton of the supply outlets is further influenced by the interior design of the building, loeal eources ef heat gain oF loss, and outlet performance and design. Local sources of heat gain or loss promote convec+ tion currents or cause straificalion and may, there: fore, determine both the type and location of the sup- By outlets, 38 ROOM ATR DISTRIBUTION ‘Outlets should be located to neutralize any undestr- able Convection Gurrents set up by a concentrated load. If a concentrated heat source is located at the ‘occupancy level of the room, the healing effect can be counteracted by directing coo! ait toward the heat source or by locating an exhaust or retuen arlle ad Jpoent te the heat source. The second method is more ecanomical, rather than dissipated into the condi toned space. Where Ighting loads are heavy [5 W: I (54 Wim?) and ceilings relatively high [above 15 ft (4.6m)], the outlets shoud be tocated below the lighting load, and the stratified warm air should be removed by an exhaust or return fan. An exhaust fan is recommended if the wet-bulb temperature of the air ig above that of the euldeors: a roturn fan is ree. ommended if it is below this temperature. These mathods reduce the requirements for supply ait. En: closed lights produce more savings than exposed lights, since 2 considerable portion of the energy is radiant, Based upen the analysis of ASHRAE outlet porior. mance tests by Straub et al. (1955, 1957) the follow- ing ate selection consideration far outlet typas in Groups A to E (See Figures. 3-5 to 3-9) 1. Group A Outlets. Outlets mounted in or near the celina with horizontal air discharge should not be used with ternporature Giferentials exceeding 25°F (14°C) during heating Consequently, Group A cutlets eheuid be used tor fheating in buildings located in regions where winter heating i¢ only a minor problem and, in northern kat tudes, solely for interior spaces. However, these out lete are particularly suited for cooling and can be Used with high airflow rates and large temperature diferentials. They are usually selected for their coo! Ing characteristics, ‘The performance of these outlets is attectod by var ious factors. Blade deflection seitings reduce throw ‘and drop by changing air fram a single straight jt to ‘a wide-spreading or fanned-out jet. Accordingly. a si: ‘dowall ota’ with O° Getlection has a longer throw and a greal drop than a ceiling diffuser with a single 380° angie of dellaction. Siewall grilles and similar cutots with other dellection settings may have performance characteristics between these two exiromes Wie deflection seltings also cause a surface effect which increases the throw and decreases the drop To prevent situdging, the total ar should should be directed aay from the ceiling, but this rarely is prac tical, except for very high ceilrgs. For opiriur airae b ssorne or ser CHAPTERS [I Figure 3-5 AIR MOTION CHARACTERISTICS OF GROUP A OUTLETS (2) pee a - pros iLe amie FIGURE 3-6 AIR MOTION CHARACTERISTICS OF GROUP B OUTLETS (2) diffusion in areas without high ceilings, total ale should scrub the ceiling surface. Drop increases and throw decreases with larger cool- ing temperature differentials. For constant tempera ture differential, airflow rate affects drop more than velocity. Therefore, to avoid drop, several small out- lets may be better in @ room instead of one large ‘outlet, With “isothermal Jets”, the throw may be selected for a portion of the distance between the autlet and wall or, proferably, for the entire distance, For cutlets in opposite walls, the throw shoukd be one-half the sistance between the walls. Following the above rec- ‘ommendations, the air drops befere striking the op- posite wall or the opposing airstream. To counteract specific sources of heat gain oF provide higher air motion in rooms with high ceilings, it may be neces aly to select a longer throw Inno case should the ‘drop ex0eed the distance from the outlet o the 6 foat (2m) love To maintain maximum ventilation effectivonoss with ceiling diffusers, throws should be kept as long as possible. With VAV designs, some overthrow at max- ittum design volumes will be desirable—the highest induction can be maintained at reduced flows. Ade- 38ee ROOM AIR DISTRIBUTION Table 3-3 GUIDE FOR SELECTION OF SUPPLY OUTLETS Floor Space Approkmate Maximum Air " Changes'Hour CFMiper 1s per Type of Outlet Sa, Foot sq Mets For 10 Ft. (3 m) Ceiling Height Gales & Rogisters oto 12 310 6 7 Slot Diffusers Ogto 20 41010 12 Perforated Panel os 30 51015 18 Cailing Diflusar 09t0 5.0 5025 20 Perforated Ceiling 1.010 10.0 51050 60 a, tes Pserrins on Figure 3-7 AIR MOTION CHARACTERISTICS OF GROUP G OUTLETS (2) quale induction by a ceiling-mounted diffuser pre- vents shortcircuiting of unmixed supply air between supply eutiot and eeiling-meunted retumns, 2. Group B Outlets In selecting Group 8 outlets, it is important to provide -enaugh throw io projec! the air high enough far proper ‘soaling in the ecoupied zone. Ain increase of supply air velocity improves air diffusion during both healing and cooling, Also during heating and cooling, 2 tar- minal velocity af about 450 fpm {0.75 mis} is found at the same distance from the floar. Therefore, outlets should be selecied with throw based on terminal ve- locity of 180 fpm (0.75 ms) With outlets installed near the exposed wall, the pri- mary air ig drawn toward the wall, resulting in a sur- 3.10 tora ano aoow aie Figure 3-8 AIR MOTION CHARACTERISTICS OF GROUP D OUTLETS (2) face etfeet, This scrubbing of the wall increases heat gain or bss. Ta reduce scrubbing, outlets should bo installed some distance trom the wall, or the supply air should be deflected at an angle anay fram the wall, However, the distance should not be too large nor the angie too wide. to prevent the air rom drop ping inio the occupied zone before maximum projec: tion has been reached, A distance of 6 inches (150 sme) and an angie of 18° is salistactory These outlets do not counteract natural carwaction currents unless sutficient outlets are installed around the perimeter ofthe space—preferabiy in ocalions af «eatest heat gain or loss (under windows). The etiect f drapes and blinds mus be considered with outlets installed near window's, It installed correctly. outlets this type handle large airflow rates with unitorm air moton and ternperaturesST eee = os | fh Figure 3-9 AIR MOTION CHARACTERISTICS OF GROUP E OUTLETS (2) 3. Group C Outlets Group © outlets ¢an be used for heating, even with severe heat load conditions. High supply velocities ‘raduce better room air diffusion than lower veloc ties, but velocity is not citical in selacting these units for heating, For cooling, the cutlets should be used with tempar- ature differentials of less than 16°F (B°C) to achieve the required projection. With higher temperature cit- forentiats, supply at velocity is at sufficient to project the total air up to the desired! level The cutlets have been used successtully for residan- tial heating, but they may also offer @ solution for applications where heating requirements ara severe and cooling requirements are moderate 4. Group D Outlets Group D outlet directs high velocity tolal air into the ‘occupied zone, and, therefore, is not recommended ‘or comfort application —pariiculary for summer cook ing. I used far heating, outlet velocities should nat be higher than 200 fpm (1.5 m’s), $0 that air velocties in the occupied 2one will net be excessive, Thase outlets have been applied successtully to process installations where controlled air velocities are de- shed, 5. Group E Outlets ‘The beating and cooling diagrams for Group E outlets show difforent throws that Become critical consider ations in selecting and apptying these outlets. Since the total air enters the occupied zone for bath coaling ‘and heating, outlets are used for either cooling of heating —saldom for both, CHAPTER & During cooling, temperature differential, supply air velocity, and airfiow rate have considerabie influence fon projection, Therefore, iow values of each should be selected During heating, selection of the correct supply air ve- locity is important to project the warm air into the ‘eccupied zone, Temperature differential is also criti- cal, because a small temperature diferential reduces variation of the threw during the cyclic aperaton of the supply air temperature. Blade sotting for deflec- tion is.as important here as for Group B and C outlets. 6. Ventilating Ceilings ASHRAE Investigations indicate that air tempera. tures and velocities throughout a room cooled by a ventiating ceiling are a linear function of room load (heat load per unit area}, and are not attecied signite leantly by variations in celling typo, total air temper- ature differential, or air volume flow rate. Highar room loading produces wider roam air temperature varia- tions and higher velocities, which decreases perfor: mance ‘These studies also found no appreciable difference in the performance of air ciffusing callings and ci. ‘cular celling diffusers for lower room loads [20 Btu’ if? (65 Wime)] For higher room loads [80 Btu FR, (250 Win?) an air-difusing ceiling system has only slightly larger vertical temperature variations and slightly laner room air velocities than a celing difuser system, When the ventilating ceiling is used at exterior expo: sures, the ackittonal load at the perimeter must be considered. During heating aperation. the designer must provide for the cod wall fect, as with any cil ing supaly diffusion system, Gold air in plenurns also ‘may cause condansation fo form on the exterior fa- cade of the plenum, The sound generated by the air supply device must alsa be considered in total sys- tem analysis to ensure that room sound levels co nat exceed the design criteria, Chuck local codes for maximum plenum sizes, fre dampers, and other re- strictions to the use of ceiling plenums. OUTLET CRITERIA 1. General Outlets with higher induction rates move (threw) air short distances but have rapid temperature equali- ana zation, Ceiling diffusers with radial patterns have shorter throws and obtain more rapig temperature equalization than slat difusers. Griles, which have Jong throws, have the lowest diffusion and induction rates, Therafore. in those cases, round or square ‘ceiling difusers deliver more air to @ given space than ‘giles and slot diffuser outlets thal require room ¥e- looities of 25 to 35 fpm (0.13 to 078 ms), In some ‘spaces. higher room velocities am be loleraled, or, the callings may be high enough to permit a throw long enough to result in the recommended rod ve locties. Cutlets with high induction characteristics can also be used advantageously in air-conditioning systems with lon supply-air temperatures and consequent high-temperature differentials between raom air tam. perature and supply-air tomperatures. Theretore: Ceiling Gitfusers may be usadt in systems with cooling temperature dhiforentials up to 80°F to 85°F (17°C to 19°C} and still provide satisfactory temperature equalizations within the spaces. Siot diffusers may bbe used in systems with cooling temperature ciffer- entials as high as 25°F (14°C). Griles may generally bbe used in well-esigned systems with cooling ter perature diferentiats up to 20°F (11°C). 2. Selection Procedures The following procedure is generally used in selecting ‘utlt lacations and types: 4) Determine the amount of air to be suppied to each oom. (Reter to Chapters 25 and 26 in the 1989 ASHRAE “FUNDAMENTALS” Hardfbock {0 determine air quantities for heating and cool ing ) Select the type and quantity of outlets for each room, considering Such factors a8 air quality required, distance available for throw or radius af diffusion, structural charactensties, and architectural concepts. Table 3-3 is based on experience and typical ratings of various out- lets. It may be used as a guide to the outlets appheable for use with varous room ait load: ings. Special conditions, such as ceiling heights Greater than the normal 8 to 72 feet (2:4 10 8.6 m) andexposed duct mounting, as well as prod: uct modifications and unusual conditions af room occupancy. can mocity this table. Mana facturers’ rating data should be consulted for final determination of the suitability of the out- lets used, aie ROOM AIR DISTRIBUTION ¢) Locate outlets in the room to distribute the air as uniformly as possible, Outlets may be sized and located to distnbute ar in proportion to the heat gain or 1oss in various portions of the roam 8) Select proper outlet size from manutacturers: ratings. according 10 air quantities. discharge velocities, disinbution patterns. and sound Iov- els. Note manuiacturers’ recommendations with regard to use. In. an open space configu ration, the interaction of airstreams from mult- ple difuser sources may alter single diftuser throw data or single cifuser air temperature air velocity dala, and it may not be sutficiant ta predict partcular levels of air motion in a space Also, obstructions to the primary air distribution pattern require special consideration 3. Grille and Register Applications Properly selacted griles operate satisfactorily from high side and perimeter locaiians in the sill. curb, or igor. Ceiling: mounted grillas. which discharge the airstream down, are generally nol acceptable in com: fort airsconditioning installations in intenor zones ang may cause drafts in perimeter applications. A. HIGH SIDE WALLS: The use ef a double deflection grille usually provides the most satisfactory solution. The vertical face blades of a well-designed grile defiect the air ap- proximately 50 degrees to either side and amaly cover the conditioned space. The rear blades deflect the air at least 15 degrees in the vertcal plane, which ig ample te control the elevation of the discharge pat: tern B. PERIMETER INSTALLATIONS. The grile selected must fit the speci job. When small giles are used, adjusiable blade griles im prove the coverage al perimeter surtaces. Where the perimeter surtace can be covered wit long grilles, the fined blade gril is satistactory, Where grils are located more than inches (200 mm) from the peri: eter surface, itis usually desirable to detect the air stream toward the perimeter wall. This can be done with adjustable or fixed deflecting blade grilles C. CEILING INSTALLATIONS Ceiling installations generally are limited 10 griles having curved blades, which, because of ther deee sign, provide @ horizontal pattern. Curved blade giles may also be used satisfactorily in high side ‘wall or perimeter installations. 4, Slot Diffuser Applications A Slot diftuser is an elongated outlet consisting of single or muitiple number of slots. It is usualy in- stalled in lang continuous lengths. Outlets with oi- mensional aspect ratios of 25 ta 1 or greater and maximum height of approximately 3 inches (80 mm), generally meet the performance criteria for slot citfus+ es, A. HIGH SIDE WALL INSTALLATION ‘The perpendicuiar-tlow slot difuser is best suited to high side wail installations and perimeter installations in sils, curs, and floors. The air discharged from a perpendicular slot diffuser will nat drop ifthe diffuser is located within 6 to 12 inches (150 to 300 mm) from the ceiling and és long enough to establish surface effect, Under these conditions, ait travels along the ceiling to the end of the throw If the siot diffuses is mounted 1 to 2 feet (900 to 690 mm) belew the cel: ing, an outlet that defects the air up to the ceiling must be used te achieve the same result, H the: stot is located more than 2 feet (600 mm) beiow the ceil ing, premature drop of cold air nto the occupied zone will probably result B. CEILING INSTALLATION The paralleHtiow slot diffuser is kdeal for calling stallation because it discharges across the ceiling. The perpendicular-ltow siot diffuser may be mounted in the ceiling: hesvever, the dowmward discharge pat- fern may cause localized areas of high air mation. This device pertorms satistactoriy when installed ad: jacent fo a wall or over en unoccupied or transiently occupied area. Care should be exercised in using pependicularcfiow slot diffuser in @ downward dis~ charge pattern because variations of supply ait tem- perature cause large variations in throm. C. SILL INSTALLATION ‘The perpendicular-flovr slot diffuser is wall suited to sill instaltation, but it may also-be installed in the curb and floes. When the diffuser is located vethin 8 inches (200 mmi of the perimeter wall. the discharged air may be elther directed straight toward the ceiling or deflocted slightly toward the wall. When the diffuser distance from the wall is greater than & inches (200 mm}, the air shoul generally be deflected towarc the CHAPTERS wall at an angle of appreximately 15 degrees; defioc- tions as great as 30 degrees may be desirable in some cases. The air should not be deflected away from the wall into the occupied zone. To perform sat- isiactoriy, autlets of this type musi be used only in installafons with caretully designed duct and plenum systems. Slot diffusers are generally equipped with accessory devices for uniform supply air discharge along the entire length of the slot. While: accessory devices help correct the airflow pattern, proper ap- proach cancitions for the airstream are alscimportant for satislactory performance. When the plenum sup- plying a siot diffuser is being designed, the traverse Velocity in the plenum should be less than the dis- charge velocity of jet, as recommended by the man- ufacturer and aiso-as shown by experience. 1 tapered ducts are used for introducing supply alr into the diffuser, they should be sized to maintain a velocity. of appraximately 500 ipm (25 mis) and tapered to maintain constant static pressure. D. AIR-LIGHT FIXTURES Slot diffusers, having a single-siot discharge and nominal 2. 3 and 4 feet (600, 900, and 1200 mm} lengths are available for use in conjunction with re cessed fluorescent light troffers. A diffuser mates with alight fixture and is entialy concealed from the room. It discharges air through suitable apenings in the fixe ture and is available with fixed oF adustabe air dis- charge pattems, air distibution plenum, iniet dam pers for balancing, and inlet collars suitable for flexible duct connections. Light ficures adapted for slot cifusers are available in styles to fit common ceiling constructions. Various slot diffuser and light fixture manufacturers can furnish products compati- ble with ane anothar’s equipment. 5. Ceiling Diffuser Applications A. CEILING INSTALLATIONS Gelling diffusers should be mounted in the center of ‘the space that they serve when they discharge the ‘Supply air in all directions. Mulli-pattern diffusers, can be used in the center of the space or adjacent 10 panitions, depending on tho deharge pattern. By using different inner assemblies, their air pattern can be changed to suit particular requirements B, SIDE WALL INSTALLATIONS Hall-round diffusers, when installed high in side walls, should generally discharge the air toward the ceiling. aiaee Type ROOM AIR DISTRIBUTION Table 3-4 SUPPLY AIR OUTLET TYPES Characteristies Applications Fixed blade gril Adjustable singlo- deflection blade grille Adjustable doubie deflection blade grille Stamped plate grilles Variable area grille Curved blade grilles Perpendicularcllow slot diffuser Paralle-iow siot diffuser Air ight fixture stot diffuser ‘Multi-paseage round ceiling diffuser Multipassage square and rectangular ceiling diffuser Adjustable patter round ceiling diffuser Adjustable pattern square and rectangular ceiling aiffuser Mutti-pattern square and rectangular ceiling dittuser Hal round diffuser ‘Supply and return concent diffuser Light fixture air diffuser combination aid ‘Single S01 of vertical or horizontal blades Single set of vertical or horizontal acjust able blades One set of vertical and one set of hori zontal adjustable blades ‘Stamped irom single sheet of metal with square, round or otmamental designed openings Similar to adjustable double deflection blade grille with moans to-effectively vary the discharge area Curved blades to provide horizontal ait pattern Generally 25 to 1 dimensional aspect ra- tig-with maximum beight of 3 inches (75 mm) Generally 25 to 1 dimensional aspect ra- tip-with masenurn bight of 3 inches (75 mm} Use in conjunction with recessed fluores cent light fistures with fined or adjustable air discharge patterns Series of flaring rings or louvers forming series of concentric air passages Series of faring rings oF louvers forming series of coneontric air passages Series of flaring rings or louvers forming Series of concentric air passages. Air dis- ccharge pattern adjustable from horizontal to veriical or down blow pattern Series of flaring rings o louvers forming ‘Sores of concentric ai passages. Air dis+ ccharge pattern adjustable from horizontal to vertical or dawn blow pattern Special louvers discharge ir in one or more directions Matches round diffuser Combination diffuser with return griia in center of diffuser Combination diffuser-bght fhature Lorg perimeter grile installations Sidewall installation where: single plane air deflettion is required Prolered grille for sidewall installation Provides. bath horizontal and vertical air deflection No adjustment of air deflection possible Use for architectural design purposes only Use with variable volume system to min- imize variation of threw with variable Sup- ply air volume Ceiling instatiation High sidewall installation Perimeter installation High sidewall installation Perimeter installation in sills, curbs and floors Celing installation Ceiling installation— (Order to match light fixture Install in canter of area served Install in canter of arca served Install for control of diffuser discharge pattern or where specific requirement to direct airflow pattern either horizontal or vertical Install for control of diffuser discharge pattern or where specific requirement to direct airflow pattern either horizontal of vertical Ingtallin eenter of area sorved or adjacent topartiions. Set pattern according to llow requirements. Install in ceiling adjacent to partition or high sidewall Install in conter of area served Celling installation combined with light socture patternod Porlorated face diffuser charge pattern Variable area diffuser area Ar distributing ceilings ‘oF slots Linear grille airflow blades Egg orate grille Fixed square grid High capacity double deflection blade grille wide spaced Drum touvers and Adjustable direction core adjustable high capacity diffusers Perforated face plate with or without de- flection device to abtain @ horizontal dis- Parallel or concentric passages or perfo- rated face with means to vary discharge Ceiling system provided with round holes Linear slot width ve to 4 inch (12: to 25 mm), continuous length with adjustable One set vertical and one set borizontal adjustable blades. Blades are deep & CHAPTER & Install in center of area served or control discharge pattern when installed off cen ter of area served Use with variable volume system to min= imize variation to throw with wariable sup- ply air value Use with celling supply plenum—partio- ularly suited (0 lege zones of uniform room temperature Ceiling and perimeter with air deflection: ‘adjustable from 1-way horizontal to werti- cal to 2-way horizontal Geiling or sidewall (no pattern adjust- ment) High sidenall installation where high ca: pacity ard law discharge velocity are re: quired High sidewall or ceiling installation wivere diectional andior long throw 1e- quired provides spat heating or spat cool- ing to areas of high load requirements C. EXPOSED DUCT INSTALLATION ‘Some ceiling diffuser types, particularly stepped- down units, perform satistactonly on exposed ducts. Consult manufacturers’ catalogs for specific types, D, ADJUSTABLE PATTERN DIFFUSERS Surface effect is important in the performance of ad- jpstable pattorn aitfusers. In faet, this effect is so pro- ‘nounced that usually only two discharge patterns ara possible with adjustable paltern diffusers. mounted directly on the ceiling. When ihe diftuser is changed {rom a horizontal pattern position toward the down- blow pattern position, the surface effect maintains the horizontal discharge pattern unil the discharge a stream is effectively deflected at the diftuser face, resulting in a vestical patter. Homever, when adjust- able patter ceiling ditfusers are mounted on ex- posed ducts, and no surtace effect exists, the air may assume any pattern between horizontal and vertical discharge. Directional or segmented horizontal air pattorns can usually be obtained by adjusting internal battles or deflectors 6. Air-Distributing Ceilings ‘The air-distributing ceiling uses the confined space above the ceiling as a supply plenum that receives air from stub ducts. The plenum should be designed {0 achieve unifocm plenum pressure, resulting in uni form delivery of air to the conditioned space elon, Ar is delivered through round holes oF slots in the Ceiling material or suspension system. These holes and slots vary in shape and size among manufactur ers. Various manufacturers have developed a number of products basod on the principle ofa suppiy plenum with sizes ranging mainly from 1 by 1 foot (300 by 200 mrn) tile for a concealed arid to 2 by 4 feet (600 by 1200 mm) lay-in panels tor an exposed grid ‘Sometimes, the slots are equipped with adjustable dampers to facilitate changing the open arva after installation, ‘The upper limit of plenum pressure must be that rec- ‘ommended by the ceiling manufacturer, H generally ranges from 0.1010 015in. w.g. (25 to 35 Pa), dictated by resistance to sag, to a lower pressure limit of about 0.01 in. wg. (2.5 Pa), where uniformity of plenum pressure becomes more important. The range of air rates extends from about #5 cim (70's) own to about 1 etm per square foot (5 ls par m® ot floor area. High flaw rates are recommended only for low-tomperature differentials, Active portions of tha airdistributing ceilings should be located with respect to room load distribution, with higher airflow rates at the exterior exposures. This ansae ROOM ALR DISTRIBUTION ‘Table 9-5 SUPPLY AIR OUTLET PERFORMANCE Characteristics Discharge Group—Type Mounting Direction Cooling, Heating A High Sidewall Ceiling. Horizontal Good mixing with warn Large amount of stag- Gries High Sidewall oom air Minimum tem- nant ait near floor, In in Sidewal Diffusers Perature variation terior zones where load- Calling Dittusers within room, Particu- ing is not severe, Siot Diffusers. larly suited to cooling stagnant air is practi> (Parallel Flow) applicatens cally non-existent Variable Area, Coiling, Horizontal Maintain design air dis- Maintain design alr dis- Grille High Sidewall Specially tribution characteristics tribution characteristics Variable Area adapted for aS alr volme changes as air volume changes Diffuser variable voume systems B Floor Grilles Floox, Vertical Small amount of stag- Smaller amount of stag- Baseboard Units Low Sidewall, Non Spreading nantairgenerally above nant air than Group A Foed Bar Gries Sill Air Jat occupied zone outlets Linear Grites © Floor Grilles loo. Vertical Larger amount of stag- Smaller amount of stag- Adustabie Bar Low Sicewall, Spreading rant ai than Group 8 nant air than group B Grilles sill Air det outlets cutlets—particularly Linear Dittusers suited to heating appl- cations D Baseboard Units Floor, Horizontal Large amount of stag- Uniform temperature Grilles Low Sdewall nant air above floor in throughout area. Rec~ ‘occupied zone—rec- ommended for process ‘ommended for comfort applications cooling E Celling Diffusers Ceiling, Vertical Small amount of stag: Goad air distribution Linear Griles High Sigewall nant air near ceiling. Select for heating only Grilles Select for cooling only applications ‘Slot Diffusers appiicatons. (Vertical Flow) Sdewall Diflusers ‘method of air distribution is particularly suited to lange zones of uniform room temperature. Where different room temperatures: are desired, a separate: ceiling plonum is required for each zone, Construction of the ceiling plenum requires care with regard to air tight: ness, obstructions causing unequall plenum pressure and temperature, heat storage effect of the structure. {and the infiuence of a root or the areas surrounding the plenum, 816 7. Outlets in Variable Air Volume (VAV) Systems. The performance of a particular outlet or aitluser is generally independent of the terminal box that is up+ stream. For a given supply air volume and tempera: {ure cifferential (10 meet a particular aad), a standard Outlot does not recognize whether the terminal bax is of a constant volume, variable volume, ar inductonae type. However, any diffuser, or system of diffusers. gives optimum air difusion at some particular toad condition and air volume. In a variable air volune system, the performance ot outlets with regard to throw, room velocity and noise lovels will vary greatly with the discharge volume, A volume variation of 25 percent to 35 percent is gen- erally effective in controling the load without substan- tial adverse effect on the performance of proparly selected outlets. When areas are unoccupied, a vole lume variation of up to 60 percent is permissible. Spe- cially designed outlets can be usod that wll pertoren with air volumes substantially below half othe design volume. This will etl alow the dasired space tom perature to be maintained. Outlets should be si lected that are designed ta periorm within the limits of the variable air volume system parameters, INLET CRITERIA 1. General Return air or exhaust air inlets may either be con- nected fo a duct or be simple vents that transfer air fram: one area to another. Exhaust air inlets remove air directly from a building and, therefore, are always connected to a duct. Whatever the arrangement, inlet size and configuration determine velocity and pres- sure requirements for the required airflow. in general, the same type of equipment, giles, slot diffusers, and ceiling diffusers used for supplying air ‘may also be used for air return and exnaust. Iniets do not requite the deflection, flow equaiizing, and turning devices necessary for supoly outlets. How- fever, volume dampers installed in the branch ducts are necessary to balance the airflow in the return air duct system. 2. Types of Inlets A. ADJUSTABLE BLADE GRILLES ‘The same grilles used for air supply are used te ‘match the defiecton setting of the blades with that oi the supply outlets. B. FIXED BLADE GRILLES This gnile isthe most common return-air niet, Blades are stiaight or set at a certain angle, the latter being preferred when appearance is important. CHAPTERS (C. V-BLADE GRILLE ‘The V-blade grille, with blades in the shape at in» vvorted W's stacked within the grile frame, has the advantage of being sightproof; it can be viewed from any angle without detracting from appearance, Door fgfilles are usualy V-blade giles. The capacity ofthe grille decreases with increased sight tightness. D. LIGHTPROOF GRILLE ‘A Lightproot Grille is used to transfer air ta or from darkrooms, The blades of this type of geile form a labyrinth. E, STAMPED GRILLE Stamped Grilles are frequently used as retum and exhaust inlets, particularly in rest rooms and utility areas. F, DIFFUSERS Ceiling and Slot Diffusers may alsa be used as retucn and exhaust inlets, 3. Selection Procedures Select return and exhaust air inlets to suit architec- tural design requirements including appearance compatibility with suppy outlets and space available far installation of inlets and ductwork. Generally inlets should be installed te return room air of the greatest temperature differential that collects in the stagnant ait areas, The lneation of return and exhaust iniets does not significantly affect air motion. The lacation of return and exhaust inlets will not compensate for ineffective supply air cistribution ‘The selection of retum and exhaust inlets depends (on (a) velocity in the occupied zone near the inlet. (b} permissible pressure drop through the inlet, and (¢) noise. A. VELOCITY Control af the room air motion to maintain comfort conditions depends on proper supply autet selection, The effect of air flow through return inlets on air movement in the. room is slight, Air handled by the inlet approaches the opening from all directions, anc lis velocity decreases rapidly as the distance trom the opening increases. Drafty conditions rarely occur near return inlets, Table 3-6 shows recommended ro- tute air inlet face velocities, aurss Room AIR piesRIBUTION Table 3-6 RECOMMENDED RETURN AIR INLET FACE VELOCITIES Velocity Over Gross Inlot Area Iniat Location Feet per Minute Metres per Second ‘Above acoupied zone ‘800 Up 4Up Within occupied zone, ‘600-800 oe not near seats Within occupied zone, 400-620 23. near seats [Door oF wail louvers. 200-300, 1418 Undoreut doors, B. PERMISSIBLE PRESSURE DROP Permissible pressure drop depends on the choice of the dosignor. Propor prossure drop allowancos should be made for control or directive devices, C. NOISE ‘The problem of return air inlet noise is the same as ‘thal for supply outlets. In computing resultant room noise levels from operation of an air conditioning sys- ‘em, the return iniet must be included as a part of the ‘otal grile area. The major difference between supply ‘outlets and retum inlets is the frequent instaliation of ‘he latter at ear level. When they are $0 located, the return inlet velocity should not exceed 75 percent maximum permissible outlet velocity, Application Be careful not to locate a return air inlet crectly in ‘he primary airstream from the supply outlal. To do ‘so will short circuit the supply ait back into the return ‘without mixing with room air ta oblain desired room ar temperature. A. HVAC SYSTEM LOADS: ‘An HVAC system operating in the exoling mode per- forms best when generaied heat is removed at its source rather than distributed throughout the condi tioned space. Heat from solar and miscellaneous loads such as machinery and floor ar desk mounted lamps are difficult to remove at the source. However, 3.18 200-300, 145 retum air flowing over ceiling mounted lighting fix- tures keeps most of that heal from being distributed into the conditioned space. Combination retum at lighting fitures, besides increasing the HVAG systern efficiency, imprave light output and extend the lamp lle. The manufecture's of fixtures, veiling grids, and grilles give performance information (airflow rate, pressure drop, and heat removal rate) of their prod- vet. B. EXHAUST OUTLETS Exhaust outlets located in walls and doors, depend- ing on their elevation, have the characteristics of ‘either floor or ceiling retums. In large buildings wath many small rooms, the reture air may be brought ‘through door grilles ar door undercuts inta the corr dors, and then to a common raturn or exhaust. Tho pressure drop through door returns should not be: excessive, oF the air difusion to the room may be: ‘serigusly unbalanced by opening or closing the doors. Cutward leakage through doors or windows anal be counted on for dependable results C. SPECIAL SITUATIONS ‘The designer should consider special situation #e- quirements in locating return and exhaust inlets in bars, kitchens, lavatories, dining reoms, ciub rooms, ‘conference rooms, ete. These normally should be jo- cated near or at the ceiling level to collect the warm air "build-up". odors, smoke and furnes.a G ‘SUMMARY 1. General Approximate values of pressure drop requirements for various types of air outlet and inlet devices may be found in Chapter 9. These values should be ade- quate for preliminary duct design layout require- ments, “The final duct design system calculations and layout must include a selection of each air distribution cutiet and inlet device using the folowing air distribution product catalog data: 1. Pressure loss through outlet 2, Throw 3. Spread 4, Drop 5, Noise Level Ror to the enginecring section ofthe air doview eat- log for an explanation of the proper use ofthe man ufacturer's data for the devices to be used. CAUTION—All air outlet terminal devices to- cated on each branch duet or duet run should: be selected with simitar pressure drops. Wi outlets with different pressure drops on tha same duct run may cause excessive airiow through the outlets with the lowest pressure drops, Using dam- ‘Table 3-7 RETURN & EXHAUST AIR INLET TYPES Type Characteristics OMAPTER & pars to control the excessive alr distribution may ese ate unaccepiable noise levels. Additional data can be ‘found on this subject in Chapters 7, 8, and 9 Obstructions must be considered when selecting air ‘outlet devices, As an example, outlets should be in stalled below the bottom of beams in beamed ceilings or below surface mounted or suspended light fixtures lo avoid deflection of the airstream. Outlets should be located to neutralize undesirable convection currents Sot Up by concentrated loads (cold air moving down ward across a window or hot air moving upwards from a heat source) Some outlet devices are of a unique patented desian and can only be furnished by one manufacturer. When a system is designed for competitive bidding. utle!s should be chosen so that several manufactur- fs can furnish air outlet devices acceptable to the designe: 2, Supply Outlets To summarize the procedure for supply outlet loca tion and selection: ) Determine room supply air quantity from heat ing and cooling load calculations and design ventilation requirements. b) Select type and quantity of outlets for each room evaluating 1) ‘Qultt airflow 2) Qutet throw pattern (performance) 3) Building structural characteristics Applications Fixed blade grille Fixed grile blades straight or sat at Return, exhaust and transfer griles Gerlain angle for appearance to match supply outlets Adjustable blade griles Blade pattern to match supply outlets Viblade arille Sight proof Light proof gril Light proat Stamped oriles Match supply outlets Celling dittusers Maich supply outlets Sbot diffusers Match supply outlets Ai fight fixture Match supply outlets Pertorated ace inlet Match supply outlets Eag crate grille Match supply outlets Rloturn, exhaust and transter grilles Particularly suited for door louvers Used for dark rooms Rlturn ard exhaust grilles Return and exhaust grilles Return and exhaust grilles Return and exhaust grilles Return and exhaust grilles Return and exhaust grilles 3.9ee ROOM AIR DISTRIBUTION Table 3-8 ACCESSORY DEVICES Device Characteristics Comments Opposed-blade volume damper’ Mult-shutter damper* Gang-operated turning vane (extractor) Individually adjusted turning vanes Slot diffuser damper Siot diffuser flow ‘equalizing vanes Mutt-fouver round diffuser damper Opposed blade round iffuser damper Ditfuser splitter damper’ Diffuser equalizing device Diffuser blank off battle Diffuser panel Diffuser anti-smudge rings Airtight fixture slot iffuser, plenum with: damper, flax inlet collar Linear gribo blank-ofts, Linear grille plenum Adaptor Plaster frames Volume adjustment to discharge air in series of jets without adversely deflecting airstream to one side of outlet Parallel blade damper will defect air- ‘stream when damper partially open Vanes pivot and remain parallel to duct airflow, creates turbulence in both braneh duet and main duct 2 parallel sets of vanes—downstream set equalizes flow across collar—up- stream sot act as tuming vanes Integral equipment with slot diffuser Integral equipment with slot ciflusex Series of parallel blades ‘Series of pie shaped blades mounted in round frame ‘Single plate hinged at duct branch con- nection to outlet Individual adiusted blades Blank off section of diffuser Size to match ceiling tie size Round, square or rectangular trame Po attaci to slot citfuser light fixture ‘Cap linear gill inlet Plenum attaches to linear grile section swith collar for Hex duct eonnection ‘Square or rectangular connection to dit fuser with round nack duct connection Found, square or rectangular secondary plaster frame Behind grille (grille with damper called register) or diffuser to adjust air volume Use to adjust air volume only when air stream deflection acceptable ‘At branch duct connection equalize flor to gtile or diffuser (Not ecommonded) Designed to equalize flow but not serve ‘as a damper Minor volume adjustment Adjust discharge gattern of slot diffuser Adjust air volume Adjust air volume ‘Adjust air volume, Use only witht equal- izing devies Use to provide uniform airflow to diffuser Use to prevent supply air from striking ‘obstruction, such as a eoumn, to reduce flow in given direction Grid ceiting systems “o minimize ceiling smudging for controled air connection to light fo ture slot diffuser Inactivate sections of continuous linear aril ‘To connect supply air to linear grille ‘To adapt square or rectangular diffuser eck to round duct connection Installed prior to plastering. Provides clean frame for easy installation af cutiet or inlet device. "Do not use as a duet system balancing damper 3.20es ©} Locate outlets to provide uniform room temper- ature using as uniform an air distribution pat- tern as possibie d) Select proper cutict size from manufacturer's catalog data considering 1) Outlet eirtlon: 2) Discharge volocity and throw 83) Distribution pattern 4) Pressure ss 5) Sound level (see Chapter 11). 3. Accessories ‘Aecessory Devices should be chosen to obtain the desired design performance af air outlet and inlet devieas (sae Table 3-8). CHAPTERS 4. Return & Exhaust Inlets Te summarize the procedure fer inlet location and selection: a) Determine room return and an exhaust air ) ) 9) i} uantity from design load calculations. Select type andl quantity of inlets for each room evaluating 1) Inet airflow 2) Inlet velocity 3) Architectural requirements Locate inlets to enhance room alr eireutation and to remove undesirable aic (considering air temperature and contamination) Select proper inlet size trom manulacturer's catalog data considering: 4) Inlet airtlor 2) Iinkt velocity 3) Proscure loss 4) Sound level (see Chapter ‘1). B2t