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Client: Bancroft
Project: Department for Education
Duration: 6 months from initial enquiry to installation
The brief
We successfully navigated a complex design and installation process for a Variable Air Volume (VAV) ventilation system in a challenging environment. Here’s a summary of the key points raised during the project:
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Project Overview
The scheme required the careful selection and installation of an AHU including IE3 AC Plug Fan for a VAV ventilation system intended to operate efficiently at both 100% and 40% duty points, while maintaining optimal airflow and pressure characteristics.
Design Considerations
Efficiency Alignment
The primary goal was to ensure that both operational points (100% and 40% volume) straddle the peak efficiency line of the fan curve. This alignment facilitates optimal airflow and energy usage.
1
Direct Drive Constraints
The requirement for single direct drive fans made the task more challenging, especially given the high air volume of 12.4 m³/s.
3
Fan Characteristics
The selected backward curved fans present challenges due to their flatter speed curves on the low-volume side and steeper curves on the high-volume side. This necessitated careful consideration of the Vmax/Vmin ratio to maintain efficiency.
2
AHU Access and Components
With structural columns obstructing access, careful planning was necessary to ensure that every component of the Air Handling Units (AHUs) could be easily maintained or replaced.
4
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Speak with our team to ensure you receive an air handling unit that suits your needs. Call 01634 729 690 or email sales@eceuk.com.
Solutions Implemented
Component Form Installation
To address access issues, the installation team dismantled each AC Plug Fan into its components and reassembled them on-site, ensuring adequate access for all parts.
1
Custom Blanking Panels
Blanking panels and diffusion plenums were integrated into the AHU design to eliminate access obstacles posed by structural columns.
3
Coil Configuration
All coils were designed as two-section, horizontally split units, allowing for multiple flow and return connections and enhancing maintainability.
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Thermal Wheel Reassembly
Similarly, the thermal wheel was delivered in segments to allow for easier assembly in constrained spaces.
2
Filtration System
Front withdrawal filters were selected to ensure easy access for maintenance, minimizing air bypass and enhancing filtration efficiency.
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Maintenance and Sustainability
The thoughtful design decisions made during the installation phase contribute to the sustainability and maintainability of the system over its expected 25-year lifecycle. By considering future maintenance needs during the design phase, facilities personnel can effectively manage and maintain the ventilation system without significant disruption.
Conclusion
The project exemplifies effective collaboration and problem-solving within the constraints of a unique building structure. The engineering team was able to successfully select and install an AHU for a VAV system that meets strict performance criteria while ensuring logistical challenges associated with the building’s design were addressed. The focus on efficiency, accessibility, and sustainability will surely benefit the facility in the long term.
Get in touch
Find out more. Talk to our professional team on 01634 729 690 or email sales@eceuk.com.