SAINT JOSEPHINTEGRATEDTECHNICALCOLLEGE

JOSEPHITE BROTHERS
NYAMIRAMBO - KIGALI
P.O Box 1330Kigali
Tel : (+250) 782306593
Email: sjitc2010@yahoo.fr
www.sjitc.ac.rw

DEPARTMENT OF CIVIL ENGINEERING.

OPTION OF BUILDING AND CONSTRUCTION.
YEAR III EVENING PROGRAM

CSTHVAC701- HEAT, VENTILATION AND AIR

CONDITIONING
Assignment 2

Names: MUDJAHIDU Cyusa

Reg no: PT 202141744

January 16, 2024

Q1. Explain detail classification of air conditioning system.
1. Based on System Type:
a. Window Air Conditioner: These units are self-contained systems that are installed
in a window or a hole in a wall. They consist of a single unit with all the components
housed together.
b. Split Air Conditioner: Split systems have two separate components: an indoor
unit that contains the evaporator coil and an outdoor unit that houses the compressor
and condenser coil. They are connected by refrigerant lines.
c. Packaged Air Conditioner: In this type, all the components, including the
compressor, condenser, and evaporator, are housed in a single unit. It is commonly
used for commercial buildings.
2. Based on Application:
a. Residential Air Conditioner: These air conditioners are designed for cooling
individual rooms or small spaces in residential buildings.
b. Commercial Air Conditioner: Commercial air conditioning systems are designed
to cool large spaces such as offices, retail stores, restaurants, and hotels.
c. Industrial Air Conditioner: Industrial air conditioners are used in industrial
settings like factories, warehouses, and production facilities, where temperature and
humidity control are critical for processes and equipment.
3. Based on Cooling Method:
a. Vapor Compression Air Conditioner: This is the most common type of air
conditioner. It uses a refrigerant to absorb heat from the indoor air, cool it in the
evaporator coil, and release the heat outside in the condenser coil.
b. Absorption Air Conditioner: Absorption systems use a heat source (such as
natural gas, propane, or solar energy) to drive the cooling process. They are less
common and primarily used in specific applications.
c. Evaporative Air Conditioner: Evaporative coolers, also known as swamp coolers,
use the evaporation of water to cool the air. They are mainly used in dry climates.

4. Based on Control Method:

a. Constant Air Volume (CAV) System: CAV systems deliver a fixed volume of
conditioned air to the space throughout the cooling cycle.
b. Variable Air Volume (VAV) System: VAV systems vary the volume of
conditioned air delivered to the space based on the cooling load. They provide more
precise temperature control and energy efficiency.
c. Dual Duct System: Dual duct systems use two separate air ducts, one for
delivering cool air and the other for delivering warm air. The air mixture is adjusted to
achieve the desired temperature.
These are some of the common classifications of air conditioning systems. The choice
of an air conditioning system depends on factors such as the size of the space, climate
conditions, energy efficiency requirements, and budget considerations.

Q2. Explain with neat sketch of working window air-conditioning.

The low pressure and low temperature refrigerant vapour from evaporator is sucked
by compressor. The compressor compresses the vapour to high pressure and high
temperature and discharges to the condenser. On the condenser the refrigerant vapour
condenses by dissipating heat to the cooling medium (air) the liquid refrigerant
coming out of condenser passes through filter, dryer into capillary tube where it is
again throated back to the evaporated pressure. The low pressure low temp liquid
refrigerant then flows to evaporator which it boil off by extracting heat from air to be
circuited to the conditioned space.

Q3.Difference between window and split air conditioning.

There are several differences between split AC and portable/window AC systems. We
have listed some key points of difference:

• Window AC generally has all its components in one metallic cabinet, unlike
the split AC, which has two units. Since key components like evaporator coil
and air filters are placed in indoor units, split ACs also have a longer life span.
• Split AC is more space-efficient and can be easily installed at any location.
Window ACs require more ductwork and need specific locations to be
installed. Installation costs of split ACs may be higher than window ACs. But
the overall operating cost is much lower.
• Since the compressor is located in the outdoor unit of split AC, all the noise
remains outside. This is not the case with window ACs which can be a lot
noisier.
• Split ACs also have larger compressors, so greater capacity, as compared to
window AC units. They can heat up larger spaces faster than window AC
systems. Window ACs are only used to heat up small spaces like a room.
• Window ACs also consume more power than split AC systems, which can be
run on inverters too. That’s why split ACs are much more energy-efficient
than window ACs.
 • Many companies are now also offering inverter ACs which can handle voltage
fluctuations well, unlike window AC units.
• Due to several advantages, split ACs will cost you a lot more than window
ACs. The cost can sometimes be double the average cost of window ACs in
the market.

Q4. a packaged HVAC system works similarly to a standard split system. Still, you’ll
notice some differences upon closer inspection. For instance, the arrangement and
ducting of a single cabinet system sets it apart. Rather than connecting the various
components directly to your home’s structure, all the parts sit inside a single unit.

Once you switch it on, the action starts!

Put simply, packaged HVAC units link up with the ductwork that has both supply and
return ducts. As warm air enters the system, the fan pulls it over the cold evaporator
coil, cooling it down. The dehumidified air then passes through the ducts to cool
down the desired area.

Nowhere near as intimidating as you once thought, right? But what about the
differences in heat production? Let’s look at each type of packaged system and how it
works.
Q5. Explain the working of split A/C system with neat diagram

In simple terms, a split AC works by absorbing the heat and humidity from the room
and releasing excess heat to the external environment. There are four main
components in an AC system – Condenser Coil, Compressor, Evaporator Coil, and
Expansion Valve. Let’s see how these different components are involved in the split
AC working principle

• The indoor unit absorbs heat and circulates it around the evaporator coil,
which has the refrigerant. The refrigerant passes to the compressor.
• The compressor starts and creates high pressure to heat up the refrigerant. The
hot liquid is then passed to the condenser coil in the outdoor unit.
• The outdoor unit circulates outside air, heats it up, and releases it back into the
external environment.
• The hot refrigerant then passes through the expansion valve, which cools it up.
And it is then sent back to the evaporator coil, thus completing a cycle.
• This cycle is repeated till the desired temperature in the room is maintained.
The temperature is set and measured by the Thermostat. After the cooling is
done, the compressor shuts down. It switches on again when the temperature
rises.
 Q6. Write the merits and demerits of split air conditioning

Split air conditioning systems have several merits and demerits. Let's explore
them:

Merits of Split Air Conditioning:

1. Energy Efficiency: Split air conditioning systems are known for their energy
efficiency. They use less power compared to traditional window air conditioners,
resulting in lower energy bills and reduced environmental impact.

2. Quiet Operation: Split ACs are designed to operate quietly. The noisy
components, such as the compressor and condenser, are placed outside the
building, minimizing indoor noise levels and providing a more comfortable
environment.

3. Improved Air Quality: Split ACs often come with built-in filters that help
improve indoor air quality. These filters can trap dust, pollen, pet dander, and
other allergens, making the air cleaner and healthier to breathe.

4. Zoning Capabilities: Split AC systems offer the advantage of zoning, allowing

you to set different temperatures for different zones or rooms. This feature
provides personalized comfort and energy savings by cooling only the areas that
are in use.

5. Aesthetics and Space-Saving: The indoor unit of a split AC is sleek and

aesthetically pleasing. It can be mounted on walls or ceilings, saving valuable
floor space and blending well with the room decor.

Demerits of Split Air Conditioning:

1. Initial Investment: Split ACs generally have a higher upfront cost compared to
window units. However, the long-term energy savings and increased efficiency
can offset this initial investment over time.

2. Limited Cooling Capacity: Split ACs are suitable for cooling individual rooms
or small areas. If you need to cool an entire house or a large commercial space,
you may require multiple units, which can increase the overall cost.

3. Dependence on Outdoor Unit: Split ACs rely on an outdoor unit to dissipate

heat. If the outdoor unit malfunctions or requires maintenance, it can affect the
cooling performance of the entire system.

4. Complex Maintenance: Split ACs require periodic maintenance to ensure

optimal performance. Cleaning filters, checking refrigerant levels, and scheduling
professional servicing can be more complicated than maintaining window

Q7. Describe briefly the variable refrigerant volume and variable refrigerant flow
Variable Refrigerant Volume (VRV) and Variable Refrigerant Flow (VRF) are both
advanced HVAC (Heating, Ventilation, and Air Conditioning) technologies that allow
for precise control of refrigerant flow in air conditioning systems. While the terms
VRV and VRF are often used interchangeably, VRV is a registered trademark of
Daikin Industries Ltd., and VRF is a more generic term used to describe similar
systems from other manufacturers.
Here's how VRV/VRF systems work:
1. Outdoor Unit: The outdoor unit houses the compressor, condenser, and expansion
valve. It circulates the refrigerant through the system and adjusts the refrigerant flow
rate based on demand.
2. Indoor Units: Multiple indoor units, such as fan coil units or air handlers, are
installed in different zones or rooms within the building. Each indoor unit is
individually controlled and connected to the outdoor unit through refrigerant lines.
3. Refrigerant Control: VRV/VRF systems use advanced control mechanisms to
regulate the flow of refrigerant. They employ variable-speed compressors that can
adjust their rotational speed to match the required cooling or heating load of each
zone. Additionally, electronic expansion valves control the refrigerant flow into each
indoor unit, allowing precise temperature control.
4. Zoning and Individual Control: VRV/VRF systems offer zoning capabilities,
allowing different zones or rooms to be cooled or heated independently. Each indoor
unit can be individually controlled, enabling personalized comfort settings.
Benefits of VRV/VRF Systems:
1. Energy Efficiency: VRV/VRF systems optimize energy consumption by
modulating the refrigerant flow rate and adjusting the compressor speed as needed.
This results in reduced energy wastage and improved efficiency.
2. Individual Comfort Control: With VRV/VRF systems, occupants can set different
temperatures in different zones, providing customized comfort for each area.
3. Simultaneous Heating and Cooling: VRV/VRF systems can provide simultaneous
heating and cooling to different zones within a building, making them suitable for
mixed-use spaces or areas with varying thermal requirements.
4. Flexibility and Scalability: These systems are flexible and can be designed to
accommodate various building layouts and configurations. They can also be easily
expanded or modified to adapt to changing needs.
5. Reduced Ductwork: VRV/VRF systems utilize refrigerant lines instead of extensive
ductwork, reducing the space required for installation and allowing for more design
flexibility.

Q8. Write down the applications of ductable ac

Ductable air conditioning, also known as ducted air conditioning, is a type of HVAC
system that uses a network of ducts to distribute conditioned air throughout a building.
It is commonly used in various applications where centralized cooling or heating is
required. Here are some common applications of ductable air conditioning:
1. Residential Buildings: Ductable air conditioning is frequently installed in
residential buildings, including single-family homes and apartments. It allows for
uniform cooling or heating of multiple rooms or zones from a central unit. Ducts are
concealed within walls, floors, or ceilings, providing a seamless and aesthetically
pleasing solution.
2. Commercial Buildings: Ducted air conditioning systems are widely employed in
commercial buildings such as offices, retail stores, restaurants, and hotels. They offer
efficient cooling or heating for larger spaces and enable individual temperature
control for different zones within the building.
3. Educational Institutions: Schools, colleges, and universities often utilize ductable
air conditioning to maintain comfortable indoor environments in classrooms, libraries,
auditoriums, and other areas. The centralized system ensures consistent temperatures
throughout the building.
5. Industrial and Manufacturing Facilities: Large industrial facilities may implement
ducted air conditioning systems to maintain suitable working conditions for personnel
and protect sensitive equipment from overheating. These systems can be designed to
handle high cooling loads and provide adequate ventilation in industrial settings.
6. Hospitality Industry: Hotels, resorts, and hospitality establishments often rely on
ductable air conditioning to meet the comfort needs of guests. It allows for consistent
temperature control across rooms and common areas, ensuring a pleasant stay for
visitors.