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c
contents
January
2012
FEATURES
26
26
Floored!
The acti activities around the Expo continue to increase, but the miles and miles of exhibit sspace still sits in the center of the action. Here’s our annual glimpse at what’s new from the companies who hope to draw you to their booths this month.
— COMPILED BY wES STAFF
54
IAQ / DATA CENTERS Cutting Costs vs. Creeping Copper: The Data Center Airside Economizer Conundrum
So Charles Charle Dickens, Ferris Bueller, a chicken, and a pig walk into an HVAC article … and try to sort out proper use of outdoor air in data centers. As you might imagine, it’s not simple. But if you remember these three design absolutes and consider your client’s specific perspective, the resulting efficiencies might have you singing Wayne Newton at the prospect of repeat business.
— BY KEVIN DICKENS, P.E.
60
BIM JBA Consulting Engineers Embraces Technology To Power Growth
Follow on one firm’s path from committing to BIM to climbing a learning curve in using it to t serve clients, and even on to taking an unusual step to fill what it sees as a need in the market.
— BY DWAYNE MILLER, P.E., R.C.D.D
64
PROJECT TRENDS Third-Party TAB Consulting In Sync With Third-Party Commissioning
The people peop in the industry don’t necessarily make a loud argument for it, but the results result often do. How to get this ball rolling, sell it, and see it through from design to occupancy? Look ahead by looking below.
— BY HOWARD MCKEW, P.E.
70
MOTORS & DRIVES Motors For Use With VFD'S
The ques questions can pile up quickly when it’s time to specify a motor to pair with variabl drive. The information available sometimes leaves one wondering a variable j t as much about the information that is unavailable. Will a decision hold up just not only in the actual application but also possibly in court? Wade into compatibility, spec terms, partial loads, and more as we try to get this motor running.
— BY STEVEN G. LIESCHEIDT, P.E., CCS, CCPR
4
En gi n e e r e d Sy stem s
January 2012
76
LIFE SAFETY Commissioning Fire Alarm Systems
This mont month, our life safety coverage arrives from the commissioning side. From design phase to titips on navigating a seemingly untenable number of observations, and on to post-testing tasks, here’s one consultant’s solid reference to keep you and your client from getting unnecessarily alarmed.
— BY TIM THATCHER, P.E.
DEPARTMENTS
Advertiser Index . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 89 Back2Basics. . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 10 Building Automation. . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 22 Case In Point . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 14 Classifieds . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 86 Commissioning. . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 20 Editor’s Note. . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 8 Glossary . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 89 Issues & Events . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 82 Literature . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 85 Products . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 84 The Facility Files. . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 24 Tomorrow’s Environment . . . . . . . . . . . 90
ENGINEERED SYSTEMS (ISSN 0891-9976) is published 12 times annually, monthly, by BNP Media, 2401 W. Big Beaver Rd., Suite 700, Troy, MI 48084-3333. Telephone: (248) 362-3700, Fax: (248) 362-0317. No charge for subscriptions to qualified individuals. Annual rate for subscriptions to nonqualified individuals in the U.S.A.: $115.00 USD. Annual rate for subscriptions to nonqualified individuals in Canada: $149.00 USD (includes GST & postage); all other countries: $165.00 (int’l mail) payable in U.S. funds. Printed in the U.S.A. Copyright 2012, by BNP Media. All rights reserved. The contents of this publication may not be reproduced in whole or in part without the consent of the publisher. The publisher is not responsible for product claims and representations. Periodicals Postage Paid at Troy, MI and at additional mailing offices. POSTMASTER: Send address changes to: ENGINEERED SYSTEMS, P.O. Box 2149, Skokie, IL 60076. Change of address: Send old address label along with new address to ENGINEERED SYSTEMS, P.O. Box 2149, Skokie, IL 60076. Canada Post: Publications Mail Agreement #40612608. GST account: 131263923. Send returns (Canada) to Bleuchip International, P.O. Box 25542, London, ON, N6C 6B2. For single copies or back issues: contact Ann Kalb at (248) 244-6499 or
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January 2012
e
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REMOTE ACCESS
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Editor’sNote BY ROBERT BEVERLY
NEW YEAR, NEW THINKING How can the conventional wisdom get a little wiser?
Really, sometimes I don’t know how you people do it. This month, Steve Liescheidt raises enough questions in the span of two paragraphs about specifying motors to work with VFDs to make your head spin. But the start of a new year is the best time to make some time for that kind of examination, isn’t it? The holidays are behind us, the calendar is replaced, and with all 12 of those pages in front of us, why not take a fresh look at some thorny issues or nagging inefficiencies? I’m not talking about reinventing the wheel, but perhaps some wheel designs or manufacturing procedures could use a little tweaking for a smoother, faster ride.
Factors like association standards and type of data center client can complicate an already complex assignment. The last thing to add to that mix is adherence to outdated guidance when it isn’t needed. This theme emerges throughout our issue this month. Howie McKew finally gets a feature platform to lay out his case for thirdparty commissioning and third-party TAB and their proper roles in the project process. Ghosts of his columns past also pop up upon reading this month’s “Building Automation” column by Paul Ehrlich and Ira Goldschmidt — you’ve seen the idea of investing more in full-time BAS expertise in these pages before — but this column breaks down what types of knowledge might be worth the effort. This nudging toward next-level performance (it might read a little more like a push sometimes)(OK, perhaps every now and then it resembles something closer to a shove) also appears in Kevin Dickens’ article about IAQ and design parameters for data centers.
This is an area where factors like association standards and type of data center client can complicate an already complex assignment. In the pursuit of smart performance, the last thing to add to that mix is adherence to outdated guidance when it isn’t needed. Even our BIM-related feature looks at a firm who is now embracing the technology not only as a design tool but an entirely different business opportunity. I don’t usually spend much of this space rehashing the issue’s contents, but my point is: The definitions of some of the most basic processes and organizations in this industry remain open to revision and improvement — if people dare to ask the right questions and imagine possible solutions. I’m proud that ES can help a few of those people reach a broader audience. Speaking of our readership, I had a recent e-mail exchange with a reader who mentioned that he enjoyed the magazine, and that he agreed with some parts of it, but put other parts of it to the side. I got the sense he might’ve been tempted to feel bad about telling me that, but in my opinion, that’s exactly the idea. We can’t pretend all of this will be useful to you, or that you’ll agree with all of it. In some cases — e.g., the proper approach for facility BAS personnel — we have intentionally provided contradictory opinions. We’re not here to necessarily tell you The Way To Do It on all subjects. We do want to show you how some ideas have worked (or not worked) for others, complemented by some knowledgeable, insightful opinions. Get one decent idea per issue that applies to your own professional situation, for use either now or down the road, and we’re happy. ENGINEERING AT THE PALACE Beyond these pages, we are also glad to be a sponsor for the 2012 Global Engineering Conference, presented by Carrier. Taking place at Caesar’s Palace in Las Vegas, the event combines keynotes, workshops, and other opportunities to “rethink, restore, and regenerate,” as Carrier president Ger-
aud Darnis puts it. Even if it didn’t tie into this page’s whole top-of-the-year theme, it’s still a good way to put it. DRIVING FUTURE COVERAGE Back to where we started: in his own casual conversations, Steve Liescheidt got a huge variety of feedback about what exactly needed to be addressed in the world of motors and drives working in harmony. What areas do you think need the most attention and discussion? By the time you get this print issue, we’ll have a new survey question or blog entry up at the website to get your feedback on this. Take two clicks and let us know. ES
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En gi n e e r e d Sy stem s
January 2012
MAKING MODERN LIVING POSSIBLE
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Engage us at AHR Expo booth 2135 or envisioneering.danfoss.com/vsd
Back 2 Basics Based on Cx-3 ATC/FPT and TAB-3 software Refer to the October, November, and December Back2Basics series for the initial three-part test of K-12 school building energy retrocommissioning application. This month’s B2B is a continuation of the previous series and will focus on the addition of a dedicated outdoor air system (DOAS) to work in sync with the existing unit ventilator and individual classroom exhaust system. Our goal for this B2B series is to provide methodology and guidelines by which you can increase unit ventilator application/ system performance, save energy, and improve the environment. As an extension to the previous three-month series, we are going to focus on the commissioning of the alterations to the existing unit ventilators now having had direct outdoor air ducted to each unit ventilator. We will retrocommission this application for the air conditioning (this month) and heating seasons (March). In addition, we will complete the testing, adjusting, and balancing (TAB) airside balancing of the new DOAS at peak supply air demand in February’s B2B test. The energy retrocommissioning team consists of the DOAS design engineer, installing HVAC contractor, retrocommissioning engineer, TAB engineer, facility operator, and the ATC operator. As in the past, the energy retrocommissioning team should have collected three years of utility bills (gas and electricity) for this facility. Going forward, utility bills, along with sub-metering, will allow the team to identify the anticipated savings and to begin to document the ROI. Because the unit ventilators will be electrically powered from various electrical panels, the primary electrical meter monthly readings (kWh and kW demand) will also be needed to benchmark the overall electrical energy savings for this energy retrocommissioning application.
DATA COLLECTION The discussion on auditing of the existing systems was discussed in the October and November B2B. For this three-part test, the data collection will be the actual commissioning of the new DOAS installation along with the air balancing of this system. Water balancing is required, too, but will not be part of this three-month series. The retrocommissioned installation now has the following: • Replacement of all three-way valves and head pressure pump control with VFDs. • Addition of direct connected outdoor air two-position air terminals to the unit ventilators. Control is via occupied-unoccupied cycle along with individual CO2 room detectors and individual room occupancy sensors. • Addition of energy recovery water coils with filters upstream of each coil and their associated exhaust fan. • DDCs replacing a mixture of antiquated pneumatic controls and electric/electronic controls with a BACnet BAS and open protocol to the city’s BAS computer.
BASIS OF DESIGN DOCUMENT Referring to “The Facility Files,” this document is the updated HVAC systems basis of design (BofD) document along with design parameters.
10
En gi n e e r e d Sy stem s
January 2012
BY HOWARD MCKEW, P.E., C.P.E.
This month’s test requires the energy retrocommissioning team to commission the new DOAS installation. While only three sequences of operation shall be commissioned on page two of this test, the new system shall have the following sequences of operation: 1. System off – fail safe verification 2. System on – 100% room occupancy and maximum cooling 3. System on – 50% room occupancy and nominal cooling 4. System on – minimum room occupancy and minimum cooling 5. System on – minimum heating (occupied and unoccupied cycles) 6. System on – nominal heating (occupied and unoccupied cycles) 7. System on – maximum heating (occupied and unoccupied cycles) 8. Safeties (freeze-stat and smoke) 9. Alarms (dirty filter, no-flow heat recovery system) 10. Energy monitoring and measuring (utility meters, CO2 levels, energy recovery performance) 11. System on - chiller plant at maximum cooling 12. System on - chiller plant at minimum cooling 13. System on - chiller plant on waterside economizer 14. System on- boiler plantt at minimum heating The sequences of operation for this month are the first three sequences of operation on the airside of the HVAC application. The energy retrocommissioning team shall document the each sequence of operation on page two of this B2B. The ATC system will be demonstrated using the functional performance test (FPT) Cx-3 software, with the reaction device-by-device embedded into the system flow diagram below the associated device. The HVAC installing contractor will demonstrate the DOAS installation with the school’s ATC operator and the retrocommissioning engineer facilitating the process. Each sequence shall be confirmed via each control device passing per the specific ATC reaction to confirm the DOAS ATC/FPT is operating per the design intent. The answers can be found at www.esmagazine.com. When the energy retrocommissioning team has completed the ATC/FPT process, all failed device reactions will have automatically been inventoried into the Cx-3 software’s corrective action log, requiring further action by the technician for those failed reactions.
Back 2 Basics The Back2Basics library has grown. Back2Basics Series and Full Library is now available through the AEC Store Get a Back2Basics series individually or get the entire Back2Basics Library at a discount. To purchase, visit AECStore.com and click on the “Energy Power – Sustainable” category. To order by phone, call Katie at 248-244-1275. The AEC Store offers products to help increase your knowledge, skills and profits! Visit AECStore.com to view all of our resources for Industry Pros.
The round thing has to go into the rectangular thing.
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The engineer’s choice Input 129 at www.esmagazine.com/instantproductinfo
Energy Retro-Cx EF-1
EF-Typical
EF-Last
DE-Typ
DE-Last
DE-1
ERC-Typ
ERC-1
ERC-Last
F-1
F-1
FDPLast
Exhaust From Associated Room Unit Ventilator
ERSP-1
ERSWTT
ERRWTT
Outdoor Air
F-1 DOAS OAT
TT-2
TT-1
RT-1st
RT-Typical
heating coil
UV-1st
UV-Typ DOATyp
CO-Last
SH-Typical
RT-Last
Note: Each UV to be retrofitted to have return air damper open 100% and existing outdoor air damper also open 100% to accept DOA as provided via 2-position air terminal
UV-Last DOALast
RA
RA
SAF-1
CC-1
PHC-1
CO-Typ
DOA1st
RHC-1
ERCDOAS
CO-1st
cooling coil
VFD D-1
Month 1- The Energy Conservation Opportunity: K-12 School Building With New DOAS and Existing Unit Ventilator System Application
Direct Outdoor air Supply
TT-3
SD-1
VFD
HWP-1 Hot Water Supply from the Boiler
VFD
BAS Computer
CHWP-1 Chiller Water Supply from the Air-Cooled Chiller
VFD
Mode:
Month 1: Energy Retro-CX Airside - New ERU and DOAS Application Device
BAS Interface
Monitoring Normal power Emergency power Alarm indication Occupied cycle Unoccupied cycle
X X X X X X
Pass/Fail Pass/Fail Pass/Fail Pass/Fail Pass/Fail Pass/Fail
X X X X X X
Pass/Fail Pass/Fail Pass/Fail Pass/Fail Pass/Fail Pass/Fail
X X X X X X
Pass/Fail Pass/Fail Pass/Fail Pass/Fail Pass/Fail Pass/Fail
D-1
2-Position OA Damper
Closed Open
X X
Pass/Fail Pass/Fail
X X
Pass/Fail Pass/Fail
X X
Pass/Fail Pass/Fail
SAF-1
Supply Air Fan
On Off Modulating
X X X
Pass/Fail Pass/Fail Pass/Fail
X X X
Pass/Fail Pass/Fail Pass/Fail
X X X
Pass/Fail Pass/Fail Pass/Fail
F-1 DOAS
Filter Differential Pressure
No signal Monitoring High static- dirty filter
X X X
Pass/Fail Pass/Fail Pass/Fail
X X X
Pass/Fail Pass/Fail Pass/Fail
X X X
Pass/Fail Pass/Fail Pass/Fail
UV-1ST
1st Unit Ventilator
On Off
X X
Pass/Fail Pass/Fail
X X
Pass/Fail Pass/Fail
X X
Pass/Fail Pass/Fail
UV-LAST
Last Unit Ventilator
On Off
X X
Pass/Fail Pass/Fail
X X
Pass/Fail Pass/Fail
X X
Pass/Fail Pass/Fail
UV-TYP
Typical Unit Ventilator
On Off
X X
Pass/Fail Pass/Fail
X X
Pass/Fail Pass/Fail
X X
Pass/Fail Pass/Fail
CC-1
Cooling Coil With 2-way ATC Valve
Closed Open Modulating
X X X
Pass/Fail Pass/Fail Pass/Fail
X X X
Pass/Fail Pass/Fail Pass/Fail
X X X
Pass/Fail Pass/Fail Pass/Fail
PHC-1
Pre-Heating Coil With 2-way ATC Valve
Closed Open Modulating
X X X
Pass/Fail Pass/Fail Pass/Fail
X X X
Pass/Fail Pass/Fail Pass/Fail
X X X
Pass/Fail Pass/Fail Pass/Fail
RHC-1
Reheating Coil With 2-way ATC Valve
Closed Open Modulating
X X X
Pass/Fail Pass/Fail Pass/Fail
X X X
Pass/Fail Pass/Fail Pass/Fail
X X X
Pass/Fail Pass/Fail Pass/Fail
ERC-DOAS
Energy Recovery Coil
No flow Full flow
X X
Pass/Fail Pass/Fail
X X
Pass/Fail Pass/Fail
X X
Pass/Fail Pass/Fail
CHWP-1
CHW Pump VFD
On Off Modulating
X X X
Pass/Fail Pass/Fail Pass/Fail
X X X
Pass/Fail Pass/Fail Pass/Fail
X X X
Pass/Fail Pass/Fail Pass/Fail
UV-Typ
RHC-1
ERCDOAS CHWP-1
VFD
ANSWERS:
12
Result
Status
3
BAS Computer
UV-Last
PHC-1
2
Reaction
UV-1st
CC-1
1 Status
On-50% Occupancy & Nominal Cooling
Description
VFD F-1 DOAS
Status:
On-100% Occupancy & Max Cooling
Tag
D-1
SAF-1
Off-Fail Safe Condition
Result
Status
Result
TO VIEW AND DOWNLOAD THIS MONTH'S ANSWERS, VISIT WWW.ESMAGAZINE.COM.
En gi n e e r e d Sy stem s
January 2012
Fill it & Forget it.
New DOWFROST ™ GEO 20 fluid helps make geothermal systems trouble free It takes a special fluid to protect customers’ geothermal systems and your reputation. New DOWFROST™ GEO 20 fluid puts your mind at ease. It’s the ready-to-use, inhibited propylene glycol-based fluid that’s formulated specifically for geothermal heat pump systems. What makes DOWFROST™ GEO 20 a better choice than methanol, ethanol and other alternatives? Optimized formulation – It contains 20 percent PG by volume… for excellent heat transfer efficiency in geothermal service, plus low viscosity to enhance pumpability and minimize energy use. Enhanced system protection – Specially designed inhibitors control corrosion, satisfying ASTM D1384 requirements and protecting equipment against damage or failure. Used at full-strength, DOWFROST™ GEO 20 does not sustain bio-organism growth. A greater margin of safety – Unlike methanol, DOWFROST™ GEO 20 is very low in acute oral toxicity. And unlike methanol or ethanol, DOWFROST™ GEO 20 does not have a measurable flash point. The fluid is not listed or characterized as being a hazardous material. A responsible choice – DOWFROST™ GEO 20 is low in toxicity to wildlife and the fluid is readily biodegradable.
®™Trademark of The Dow Chemical Company (“Dow”) or an affiliated company of Dow
Input 223 at www.esmagazine.com/instantproductinfo
Visit us at booth #2042 Learn more about DOWFROST™ GEO 20 North America: 1-800-447-4369 Europe: +800 3 694 6367 Latin America: +55 11 5188 9555 Asia Pacific: +800 7776 7776 www.dowfrost.com
CaseInPoint Linkage lessens load of damper installation
Andy Cummings of Southland Industries has suffered through his share of cumbersome damper actuator installs. With over 30 years of experience in the sheet metal industry, he knows that the process is not only time-consuming, it can yield disappointing results if the connections are in any way unstable. Damper blades can become twisted or bent, linkages can bend or even break, etc. Meanwhile, the last thing a busy design, build, and maintenance firm like Southland Industries wants is to revisit a failed installation that was already labor-intensive to begin with. Unfortunately, the industry has not served up many solutions for this universally recognized problem; at least not until the 2010 release of the ZG-JSL jackshaft linkage from Belimo. Cummings and his associates at Southland first learned of the new jackshaft linkage in 2009. The company was so intrigued by the possibilities of this revolutionary new connection tool that they made arrangements to purchase the first 200 pieces Belimo released even though it would be months before the linkages were available. The ZG-JSL’s release in late 2010 just happened to coincide with a fast-track military project of Southland’s. The contractor had already installed a 20 x 40 bank of dampers (and actuators) in the generator room at the new Fort Belvoir military hospital in Virginia. However, these dampers proved unsatisfactory for the generator application because they did not provide the 100% seal that the Army Corp of Engineers desired to minimize heat loss from the generator room. Because of this, Southland would have to remove and replace all of the existing brand new equipment — pushing the project’s already tight schedule to the limit. It was the perfect opportunity to try out the new Belimo linkage and see how much time it really saved. Since Southland had already installed the exact same project using conventional angle plates and rods, it would also provide a perfect apples-to-apples comparison of the two installation strategies. WHAT MAKES THE ZG-JSL JACKSHAFT DIFFERENT The ZG-JSL jackshaft linkage is designed to easily attach to any part of a jackshaft and allow easy installation of specific Belimo actuators — Southland’s preferred brand of actuated control. Unlike conventional actuator installs, the ZG-JSL eliminates the removal of bearings or the use of ball joints and pushrods to complete an installation. Its open-ended design and clamp insert allows the linkage to be used with any jackshaft from 0.5 to 1 in. in diameter. An adjustable anti-rotation plate means it can be positioned for a variety of Belimo actuators. It is a one-piece solution for demanding applications like the generator plant at Fort Belvoir Hospital, which must be able to deliver full power to the hospital in just 6 seconds. Makeup air is required for the hospital generators to leap into action, which means the dampers must open rapidly to instantaneously deliver up to 100,000 cfm to each of the two generators per room in the plant. Given the challenging application, Cummings was hesitant to use standard methodology. “When a damper is on the receiving end of 120 volts of power like these are, damper blades can easily twist if the actuator is mounted directly to the blade. These new linkages eliminate that scenario and the associated instability,” said Cummings.
14
En gi n e e r e d S y stem s January 2012
A new jackshift linkage helped Fort Belvoir Hospital save money on labor costs.
MINUTES VS. HOURS Southland was banking on the durability of the ZG-JSL application, but would it be the time-saving solution that the contractor had hoped for? “No doubt about it,” said Cummings, who had the hindsight of the previously installed dampers and actuators with which to compare his experience. The original actuator installation took two workers a full week to complete. Installing the actuators on the new dampers using the Belimo jackshaft linkage took two men only a day and a half to complete.
Mak keup p aiir is req quir ired ed for the hosp ho spit ital al gen ener erat ator ors s to lea eap p in into to acti ac tion on,, wh whic ich h me ean a s the damp pers mustt open rapi pidl idl dly to to inst in stan anta tane neou ousl sly y de deli live ver r up to 100, 10 0,00 000 0 cf cfm m to eac ach h of of the two gene ge nera ne rato ra tors to rs per roo oom m in the pla lant nt. nt Give Gi ven n th the e ch chal alle leng ngin ing g ap appl plic icat atio ion, n, Cummings g was hesit itantt to use standard methodology. “What would have taken hours, took minutes,” said Cummings. The generator room went so smoothly that the same linkages were used to install Belimo actuators throughout the hospital. While the linkages may cost a bit more, said Cummings, the savings in labor more than offsets the cost. It’s also an investment in serviceability since the linkages make the actuators far more accessible for servicing and replacement, which is important to Southland since they set up service contracts for many of the projects they install.
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Booth #2810
CaseInPoint and industrial sales for Johnson Air Products, echoed that delivery and dimensions were “mission critical.” In business since 1948, Johnson Air Products is one of Portland, Oregon’s largest suppliers of commercial and industrial HVAC systems. They specialize in providing innovative, energy efficient solutions and knowledgeable application support. Johnson Air Products is the sales territory rep for two Unison Comfort Technologies businesses, Innovent® and Valent®. Glumac, the consulting engineering firm for the project, selected Innovent as the basis of design for the unit under the 747, which serves the plane body and the two glass stairwells. Upon entering the body of the plane, waterpark guests choose from four exciting waterslides which exit the plane, skim the roof line, and then dip back into the park. They anticipated the conditions in the waterslide “starthouse” in the plane body would pose extreme challenges to maintaining comfort.
Custom air-handling equipment was laid out in an atypical arrangement in order to meet this waterpark’s unusual design challenges.
Air handler supports the mission at a unique aviationthemed waterpark
The middle of Oregon’s wine country is an unlikely setting for the campus of a world-class aviation museum, housing the Howard Hughes “Spruce Goose” and many historic aircraft. Even more unlikely is finding an Innovent custom air handler nestled under the fuselage of a B747 airliner, which sits atop the roof of a lively waterpark. Evergreen Wings & Waves Waterpark includes ten waterslides, a wave pool, and a children’s museum dedicated to teaching students about the power of water. Its distinguishing architectural feature is a massive B747-100 aircraft on the top of the building. As anyone familiar with building construction and mechanical systems might assume, this posed substantial challenges. A committed team was able to answer these unique challenges, and Unison™ Comfort Technologies HVAC units were a key part of their solution. “Hoffman Construction (the waterpark’s general contractor) is concerned that everything we do on this campus supports the vision of the foundation, which is to inspire and educate,” said Ben Wiley, project engineer, Hoffman Construction. UNIQUE CHALLENGES The unusual demands of this project made close teamwork essential for those responsible for the waterpark’s HVAC units. Hal Brey, project manager with Temp-Control Mechanical, notes the importance of an established, trusted working relationship on a complex project such as this. “To Innovent’s credit, the delivery happened as promised,” Brey said. This was crucial to the tight construction schedule. Because of the close tolerance of the space, the unit’s height, footprint and airflow also had no margin for error. “Dimensionally, it was built exactly as it was drawn,” said Hal Brey, “…which doesn’t happen too much anymore these days.” The Unison rep, Brad Galpern, vice president of engineering
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En gi n e e r e d S y stem s January 2012
“Bec ecau ause se it’ t s th t e to topm p os ostt po pointt in the bui uild ldin ing g, hot ot, hu humi mid d ai air r rises i up those sttaiirwell lls and d gets ge ts int nto o th the e pl plan ane; an e; tha hatt is whe here re gues gu ests ts exp xper erie ienc nce e wa wait it tim ime e pr prio ior r to getting g into the slides. So the perf pe rfor orma manc nce e of tha hatt un unit it is crit cr itiic it icall to gu gues estt comf mfor fortt. We’ e’ve ’ve been be en her ere e on onsi site te and onl nly y ha had d one on e ti time me whe hen n we had to co come me in and adjust anything on that unit.” The firm’s focus on sustainable engineering also led them to seek an energy efficient solution. As a supplier of custom air-handling equipment, Innovent offered the design flexibility for an atypical configuration where the condenser fans exhaust heat out of the rear of the air handling unit vs. the more traditional top, where the close proximity of the plane’s body would not allow proper heat rejection. A UNISON SOLUTION Johnson Air Products provided an Innovent custom AHU and two Valent packaged rooftop units, all part of the Unison Comfort Technologies product line. Speaking to the advantage of a common source for these different types of HVAC solutions, Brey noted the comfort level and confidence that comes from “working with people you trust, such as Hoffman Construction and Johnson Air Products.” Engineering and rigging the plane onto its perch atop the building is a story in itself. But installing the Innovent unit posed substantial challenges as well. Brey recounts, “Two-thirds of the building was built up with the structural steel. Part of the building was left out to provide a space for the crane to lift the airplane. The plane was then set on top in a careful, painstaking process. Subsequently, our team took the opportunity to bring in the Innovent unit. Working with Hoffman, we were able to get the steel structure for the stair tower on the east side erected in stages so the columns were left
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CaseInPoint low, below the roofline. We set up rigging so that we could move the unit in on rails.” Brey continued, “Normally that early in a project, installing HVAC is not critical. But with this project we would never have been able to do it had we waited any longer. Being able to meet the commitments that were made was crucial.” Hoffman’s Wiley underscores this from his general contractor’s perspective, “The Innovent unit was moved in shortly after the plane lift. The timing was critical; we had rigging equipment and mobile cranes onsite. This was definitely not a typical installation. We had to hit the time slot because we had to build the stairs up to the plane, so that we could start all the work following that.” As guests enter the plane, they can view the forward section of the plane through a glass wall, around which the air distribution is mounted. Hoffman, Temp-Control Mechanical, and Johnson Air Products collaborated to devise a ring of special diffusers which complimented the aviation-themed architecture — another example of the team’s synergy solving design challenges. ENTER VALENT As the building planning progressed, the Evergreen leadership began to envision possibilities to further their mission to inspire and educate beyond the basic waterpark. They stretched the building size to incorporate party rooms and a children’s museum. Glumac selected two Valent VPR 310 packaged rooftop units to serve these areas, locker rooms, and to provide makeup air for the waterpark’s kitchen and snack bar. These units are located
in a mechanical yard behind the facility. True to the educational mission, there is signage on a window overlooking the yard and icons on the HVAC and mechanical units explaining their function to potential future engineers. THE RESULTS The waterpark has proven to be a big attraction in the Portland area and welcomed over 50,000 visitors in the first few months of operation. From a consulting engineering perspective, Glumac states that the Innovent unit has performed to the expectations of their design criteria and that Innovent should be proud of their role in a uniquely demanding application. Hoffman maintains an ongoing presence on the campus and Ben Wiley reports, “The Innovent unit has performed very well in one of the most challenging conditions on the project. That unit serves the plane and the stairwells which are above the roofline. Because it’s the topmost point in the building, hot, humid air rises up those stairwells and gets into the plane; that is where guests experience wait time prior to getting into the slides. So the performance of that unit is critical to guest comfort. We’ve been here onsite and only had one time when we had to come in and adjust anything on that unit, which is quite a testament.” Looking ahead, future plans include adding a lodge to the campus to make it even more of a destination. And it’s clear the team will remain just as committed to creating comfortable and energy-efficient environments that inspire and educate. ES
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En gi n e e r e d Sy stem s January 2012
Preserve the classics. Stay prepared for the future. APOGEE® wireless devices let you modernize facilities quickly, easily and economically. usa.siemens.com/wireless
Creating a building this is more marketable and better prepared to capitalize on future technologies is easier than you may think with Siemens wireless devices. Their reliable performance, and our expertise in seamless integration of building automation systems, can help you quickly achieve the delicate balance of a more comfortable, more energy-efficient environment. Plus, you’ll use significantly less wire and materials, saving money today and when reconfiguring space in the future.
Wireless components eliminate the need for interconnecting wiring, require no AC power, and utilize low-power designs. With unlimited flexibility, they can be optimally located for faster, less disruptive installations and more precise monitoring. Our leading-edge wireless mesh technology protects and increases the value of your investment, making these devices a wise choice for retrofits and new construction.
Answers for infrastructure. Input 168 at www.esmagazine.com/instantproductinfo
Commissioning BY REBECCA ELLIS, P.E.
PUBLIC ART GALLERY AHU Trend Analysis The $4,000/yr problem was not on display for, or even noticeable by, visitors and staff.
This column is the continuation of a series in which I demonstrate examples of systems performance information that can be gleaned from trend log analysis. In these columns, I introduce a system or subsystem, show a trend graph, and then leave it up to the reader to discover the operational “issue” illustrated in the graph. The answer will be given at the start of the subsequent month’s column.
DECEMBER 2011 TREND LOG ANALYSIS Last month’s trend graph was for an AHU serving a museum’s below-grade unoccupied art storage vault in a northern climate. This was a constant volume, single zone system with a mixing box, chilled water coil, heating hot water reheat coil, humidifier, and supply fan. The museum’s art conservators expected to maintain 70°F and 40% to 50% rh year round. There was no airside economizer, but there was a minimum outside air damper open at all times. The trend graph shown in last month’s column indicated that the control system was doing a great job of maintaining space temperature at a very steady 70°. The heating hot water coil pump and the heating hot water valve were called into play for dehumidification reheat purposes a few times during the 10-day trend period. Otherwise, the heating hot water valve was fully closed. When not dehumidifying, the chilled water valve was modulating between 30% to 40% open to maintain the space temperature setpoint. There was a direct correlation between the discharge air temperature fluctuation (up and down around an average of approximately 70°) and the chilled water valve modulation. This all seemed to make sense. The anomaly, however, was the fact that the mixed air temperature was consistently about 65°, which was 5° lower than the discharge air temperature. How was the air temperature increasing from 65° to 70° if the hot water valve was closed and the chilled water valve was partially open? The fan will always add some heat to the airstream, but this was not a big enough fan/motor to account for the greater-than-5° temperature rise illustrated in the graph. The steam humidifier, although not active during this trend period, may also have accounted for a slight temperature rise. The only other potential source of heat between the mixed air sensor and the discharge air sensor was the heating hot water valve, and this trend data proved that hot water was leaking past the closed valve into the heating coil. The chilled water valve compensated for this failure by opening to remove the excess heat introduced by the leaking valve. As such, the failure did not manifest itself in loss of environmental control in the art storage vault, and no one at the museum was aware of a problem. Repairing the hot water valve resulted in over $4,000/year in cooling and heating energy savings by eliminating the unnecessary simultaneous heating and cooling.
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En gi n e e r e d Sy stem s January 2012
FIGURE 1.
NEW SYSTEM This month’s trend graph is from the same museum as last month’s art storage vault. This is a large constant volume air handler delivering constant 55° supply air to terminal reheat coils serving multiple temperature control zones. These temperature control zones are primarily art galleries open to the public during the day. The AHU consists of a mixing box with airside economizer, heating hot water preheat coil, chilled water coil, humidifier, and supply fan. This trend was created as part of a retrocommissioning project looking for low cost/no cost energyefficiency measures. TRENDS The BAS was used to trend the following sensor and device data at one-minute intervals for a single day in the fall of 2006: • Return air temperature (brown) • Outside air temperature (green) • Mixed air temperature (orange) • Discharge air temperature (black) • Discharge air temperature setpoint (purple) • Chilled water valve signal (blue) • Heating hot water valve signal (red) • Outside air damper signal (yellow) ES Ellis is president of Questions & Solutions Engineering Inc. (Chaska, MN). E-mail her at
[email protected].
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BuildingAutomation BY PAUL EHRLICH, P.E., AND IRA GOLDSCHMIDT, P.E.
IN-HOUSE BAS Expertise Should your facility step up its staff? Consider these tiers.
A few weeks ago, we received an e-mail from a facility manager at a large community college asking an intriguing question about the economics of creating an in-house group of BAS technicians. He went on to propose that this could be similar to an IT group, allowing for the college to find and retain qualified individuals offering them competitive salaries, and providing centralized support. The question about the economics (i.e., ROI) of an in-house BAS department is a challenge and may be the topic of a future column or article. But the more interesting question for this month is what skills should owners look for to better support their building systems especially controls and BAS. There are a series of skills required to properly manage a BAS. These range from the ability to readily understand mechanical systems and to use the BAS as a tool for effective building management, on to the ability to readily troubleshoot and program these systems. Many believe that there is a minimal level of BAS expertise that every owner needs on staff; however, we would take this further and say that the majority of the facility management staff should have some amount of BAS expertise, depending on their job description. These would include: Tier I • Familiarity with the BAS: how to access the system and navigate. • Ability to utilize system graphics and tables to evaluate the operation of key systems including air handlers, VAV boxes, chiller, and boiler plant. Beyond these skills come those that every advanced technician or supervisor should have. Tier II • Be able to make setpoint changes (either temporary or permanent) in response to problem. Examples of setpoints include space temperatures, box flow setpoints, schedule start/stop times, and air handler and plant operating parameters. • Utilize reports and trends to track system operation and identify potential problems. • Utilize the system logs (alarms and events) to deal with a of range problems including parameters, communications failures, etc. • Be able to back up and restore controllers. Finally, there is an advanced set of skills. Tier III skills are skills which owners may choose to provide in house, or they may rely on a servicing contractor to assist in providing them. These include: Tier III • The ability to troubleshoot and tune a PID loop. • View, analyze, and modify the programming logic in a controller.
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En gi n e e r e d S y stem s
January 2012
Many Many y bel elie ieve ve tha hatt th ther ere e is a min inim imal al leve le vell of BAS exp xper erti tise se tha hatt ev ever ery y owne ow ner r ne need eds s on sta taff ff;; ho howe weve ver, r, we woul wo uld d ta take ke thi his s fu furt rthe her r an and d sa say y that at the majjorit th ity off th the fa faci cili litty man anag ag gem emen entt staf tafff sh shou ould ld hav ave e so some me amo moun untt of BAS BA S ex expe pert rtis ise e, dep epen endi ding ng on th thei eir r jo job b desc de scri ript ptio ion n. • Modify or develop and populate a system graphic or report. • Add a new controller or integrated system to the BAS. • Analyze communications issues. The skills in tiers I and II are essential for any organization to have in house. Those of Tier III are also essential but can be provided either contractually or internally. Why are these skills so important? Well, controls are a key element in achieving high-performance building operations, and it is an element that needs to be applied daily in order to achieve this “high performance.” Providing this level of attention has many benefits, including reduced energy costs through improved efficiency as well as improved support for the facility’s mission (including uptime, comfort, and productivity). ES Paul and Ira first worked together on a series of ASHRAE projects including BACnet committee and “Guideline 13 – Specifying DDC Controls.” The formation of Building Intelligence Group provided them the ability to work together professionally providing assistance to owners with the planning, design and development of Intelligent Building Systems. Building Intelligence Group provides services for clients worldwide including leading Universities, Corporations, and Developers. More information can be found at www.buildingintelligencegroup.com. We also invite you to contact us directly at
[email protected] or
[email protected].
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Specify Typical Installation
January 23 - 25, 2012 McCormick Place • Chicago, Illinois
See VapaVoid at Booth 4753 Input 316 at www.esmagazine.com/instantproductinfo
VapaVoid by Vapac
www.vapachumidification.com info@vapachumidification.com ©2011 Vapac Humidification
TheFacilityFiles
CARBON FOOTPRINT ✔Carbon Neutral ❑ ❑ ❑ ❑ ❑
BY AMANDA MCKEW
MONTH 1 - THE ENERGY CONSERVATION OPPORTUNITY: K-12 School Building with New DOAS and Existing Unit Ventilator System Application – Basis of Design Document BASIS OF DESIGN – ORIGINAL 1971 Application: Original design intent – Four-pipe hot water heating and chilled water cooling serving 200,000-sq-ft K-12 school
System
Capacity
Months On-Line
Hours of Operation
ATC Controls
Chilled water
650 tons
May 1 - Oct. 15
24 hrs/day
Three-way valve, fixed CHWS temperature
Hot water
350 bhp
Oct. 15 - May 1
24 hrs/day
Three-way valve, HWS temperature
Pumps
Flow
GPM/Unit
Pump Head
Balancing Valve
Motor
Pump Flow
Chilled water
1,560
2.4/Ton
95 ft
70% open
Original
Constant
Hot water
1,200
3.4/bhp
70 ft
70% open
Original
Constant
Unit Ventilators
Total CFM
Outdoor Air CFM
Hours of Operation
Remarks
Through-the-wall
1,200
600
6 a.m. to 7 p.m., 7 days/wk
600 cfm exhaust
Chilled Water Temperatures
Hot Water Temperatures
45˚F CHWS and 55˚ CHWR
190˚ HWS and 170˚ HWR
Remarks
ENERGY RETROCOMMISSIONING REPORT/RECOMMENDATION/IMPLEMENTATION New Design Intent – Disconnect existing outdoor air connections to unit ventilators and open the individual unit ventilator outdoor air dampers to accept the new DOAS connection to provide outdoor air to individual rooms based on room occupancy and CO level within the room. In 2 addition, add water-to-water energy recovery by capturing individual room exhaust energy and transferring the recovered energy to the new DOAS unit. Energy recovery application is estimated to be approximately 50% efficient with 12-yr ROI. New DOAS unit shall be 100% outdoor air system with energy recovery coil, preheating coil, cooling and dehumidification coil, supply fan, and reheat coil for dehumidification sequence of operation. Individual exhaust fans shall have filters and energy recovery coils and shall be in sync with associated CO control. 2 Supply fan shall operate with VFDs responding to individual room occupancy schedule and CO sensors. 2 All existing three-way valves shall be replaced with two-way valves. Refer to December 2011 B2B for more information.
System
Capacity
Months On-Line
Hours of Operation
ATC Controls
Chilled water
650 tons
May 1 - Oct. 15
13 hrs/day, 5.5 days/wk
Two-way valve, reset CHWS temperature
Hot water
350 bhp
Oct. 15 - May 1
13 hrs/day, 7 days/wk
Two-way valve, reset HWS temperature
Pumps
Flow
GPM/Unit
Pump Head
Balancing Valve
Motor
Pump Flow
Chilled water
1,560
2.4/Ton
55 ft
100% open
High efficiency and VFD
Variable flow
Hot water
1,200
3.4/bhp
40 ft
100% open
High efficiency and VFD
Variable flow
Unit Ventilators
Total CFM
Outdoor Air CFM
Hours of Operation
Through-the-wall
1,200
Refer to DOAS
Individual room occupancy schedule
DOAS Unit
ERU Coil
Preheat Coil
Cooling Coil
SAF Fan CFM
Reheat
Remarks
100% OA
0˚ to 35˚
0˚ to 60˚
90˚ to 55˚
14,000
55˚to 60˚
10 DOAS units
Chilled Water Temperatures
Hot Water Temperatures
45˚ to 50˚ CHWS and 55˚ to 60˚ CHWR
190˚ to 170˚ HWS and 170˚ to 150˚ HWR
Remarks
Remarks
NOTES: • Final heating and cooling of the individual rooms will be by the unit ventilator serving the room, along with its associated exhaust fan. • Other considerations could be to eliminate the individual DOAS unit reheat coils and design the individual unit ventilators to do the reheat within each room based on how the unit ventilators are zones. • In the dehumidification sequence of operation, space humidistats located throughout the facility will have the capability to reset the DOAS supply air from 60˚ supply air temperature down to 55˚ temperature to remove excess moisture from the outdoor air. On other occasions, the DOAS unit may deliver 60˚ to save outdoor energy consumption.
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En gi n e e r e d Sy stem s
January 2012
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COMPILED BY ES STAFF
The activities around the Expo continue to increase, but the miles and miles of exhibit space still sits in the center of the action. Here’s our annual glimpse at what’s new from the companies who hope to draw you to their booths this month.
I
n case you weren’t sure, McCormick Place hasn’t gotten any smaller. It won’t be any less packed with equipment and people ready to talk about that equipment, either. Every year, we try to help you do a little scouting to see where you might want to plan a stop or two along the way. As usual, a bevy of companies responded to our request to participate (at no charge) in this article. Look for their booth numbers below, get more info at www.ahrexpo.com if you’d like, and if you see something interesting, use the summaries they provided below as springboards for meaningful questions and conversation.
HEAT EXCHANGERS Spirax Sarco (#1436) will introduce its Spirax EasiHeat DHW. This new heat exchanger, incorporating Spirax
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En gi n e e r e d Sy stem s
facilities achieve savings, but decreases waste, mitigates environmental impact, and helps achieve sustainability goals. This system enables monitoring, diagnostics, and status communications. Information can be accessed in a number of ways: remotely over the internet, through onsite communication systems, or via mobile devices such as SMS text messaging, e-mail and smart phone applications.
Spirax Sarco (#1436) will introduce its Spirax EasiHeat DHW.
Intelligent Monitoring System (SIMS) technology, is a compact, instantaneous heat transfer package that not only helps
January 2012
COOLING LG Electronics USA (#5149) is showcasing its new Multi V III Variable Refrigerant Flow (VRF) commercial air conditioning system for large-scale facilities, such as commercial office buildings, hotels, hospitals, and schools. The third-generation in LG’s popular Multi V series uses innovative VRF technology that enables improved energy efficiency by allowing occupants to
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Floored! key benefits including an inverter scroll, compact footprint, AHRI 1230 certification, and longer piping distances. The MovinCool CMW30 provides 29,400 Btuh of cooling, designed for protecting server rooms and other heatsensitive equipment. It offers a high sensible cooling capacity, a 17-IEER rating, variablespeed inverter compressor, and inverter fan motors. Additional environmentally friendly features include R-410A refrigerant and RoHS compliance. The CMW30 comes standard with a state-of-the-art, wallmounted controller that offers advanced communications, monitoring, and selfdiagnosis capabilities (#5336).
LG Electronics USA (#5149) is showcasing its new Multi V III Variable Refrigerant Flow (VRF) commercial A/C system for large-scale facilities.
choose whether to air condition or heat only the zones in use. The system delivers
BOILERS The new VERSA IC™ fully integrated boiler control from Raypak is a giant leap beyond currently available control platforms. Features include modulating or stage fire operation, integrated temperature control, cold water protection, and individual fault monitoring. The VERSA IC is field upgradable
Input 313 at www.esmagazine.com/instantproductinfo
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En gi n e e r e d Sy stem s
January 2012
and includes Modbus communications port standard for continuous remote supervision, trending, and troubleshooting. The control platform will be phased into all Raypak DHW and hydronic products during 2012, starting with XFyre. See the VERSA IC at booth 5327. Hydrotherm KN Series condensing cast iron boilers are available in sizes ranging from 200 MBh to 3,000 MBh, with ultrahigh efficiencies of up to 99%. KN-Series boilers feature HeatNet, a proprietary boiler management system. Environmentally responsible KN Series boilers are engineered to provide extremely low CO2 and NOx emissions — all in a small footprint with minimal moving parts (#4269). HeatNet was developed and manufactured by Mestek Technologies as an onboard control platform for Hydrotherm KN Series boilers, RBI Water Heaters, and Smith Cast Iron Boilers 28HE units. HeatNet communicates with all types of boilers including mixed configurations of condensing, non-condensing, or base load
Saves your data. Saves your money. Saves your planet. gForce by Data Aire is the mission critical cooling system which answers current demands with environmentally sound technology. Utilizing green refrigerants, energy-efficient fans and coils, advanced airflow design and enhanced fan reliability, gForce is the data cooling system of the future. Each Data Aire product is custom manufactured and is consistently reliable as the result of innovative engineering. gForce, with its unique combination of ecology and technology is the hottest cooling system on the planet. Visit www.DataAire.com to learn more about gForce . . . your answer to data room cooling.
Specializing in: Precision cooling units built to client specifications n Short lead times n Advanced control systems n Ultra-reliable technology n
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Floored! applications. Capable of operating boilers as single units or multi-boiler master/member networks of up to 16 boilers, HeatNet can provide constant communication to a building management system to enable multifunction control of boilers, pumps, valves, louvers/dampers, hot water storage tanks, and outdoor reset (#4569).
Fulton (#2136) has expanded its line of popular Vantage series condensing hydronic boilers to include a 6,000,000 Btuh input model. The new Vantage 6,000,000 Btuh model features thermal efficiencies up to 99% when firing on natural gas. The introduction of the Vantage 6,000,000 Btuh input model
Commercial HVAC Filter Products
Showing at the AHR Expo 2012 in Chicago, 3M’s new
V
Fulton (#2136) has expanded its line of popular Vantage series condensing hydronic boilers to include a 6,000,000 Btuh input model.
into the hydronic heating market creates opportunities for the reduction of energy usage and overall environmental impact of systems with large energy requirements. The 6,000,000 Btuh model joins Fulton’s proven product line of Vantage 2,000,000, 3,000,000, and 4,000,000 Btuh units.
-Bank Filter
✓ Industry leading low pressure drop ✓ Long filter life ✓ Factory installed gaskets for consistent reduction of air bypass
✓ Light frame construction for easy handling and installation
Visit us at www.filtrete.com/commercialbuilding
1
3M and Filtrete are trademarks of 3M Company. © 2011 3M Company. All rights reserved. Input 314 at www.esmagazine.com/instantproductinfo
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En gi n e e r e d Sy stem s
3M PI Ad_Engineered Systems_AHR Show.indd 1
January 2012 12/12/2011 8:52:59 AM
WATER HEATERS RBI Water Heaters will showcase its expanded product offering, which includes two new sizes in the Futera XLF product line. These high-efficiency, nearcondensing, copperfin boilers are now available in four sizes ranging 2,500 to 4,000 MBtuh with full modulation, a 5:1 turndown, and efficiencies to 88%. The Futera XLF utilizes HeatNet technology, an on-board digital monitoring and control device, which allows for units to be linked together (or to a BMS) and be fully integrated into a network of up to 16 individual boilers (#4269). Lochinvar’s new Strato-Therm+ integrates three appliances into one by functioning as a solar thermal storage tank, an indirect water heater, and a buffer tank for hydronic applications. Strato-Therm+ leverages solar energy as well as the natural buoyancy of heated water to efficiently stratify the hydronic heating water. This
INSPIRING CHANGE The Yaskawa Z1000 AC Drive introduces an inspiring product evolution in variable speed drive technology. This drive is designed for building automation applications such as fans, pumps, and cooling towers through 500 HP. The Z1000 features an easy-to-read LCD keypad that provides Hand-Off-Auto interface and a real time clock. It also protects against drive and motor faults to maintain uptime and conforms to the BACnet communication protocol standard. Want to change your drive technology for the better? Call Yaskawa today.
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YA S K A W A A M E R I C A , I N C . - D R I V E S & M O T I O N D I V I S I O N 1 - 8 0 0 - YA S K A W A
YA S K A W A . C O M
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Want to clean tubes faster than ever?
Floored!
HIRE THE PRO. Goodway RamPro™ – Faster, easier chiller tube-cleaning!
process results in the hottest water rising to the top of the tank, which allows domestic hot water to be generated instantly. It also allows for the space heating system to access the most appropriate temperature, while the cooler water in the bottom provides enhanced solar thermal heat generation. Strato-Therm+ is available ranging from 125 to 900 gal capacities (#6712).
NEW!
FEATURING: • Quick-Connect system Cuts brush and shaft changes from minutes to seconds!
• Superior tube-cleaning Power and dependability
• Portable and sturdy design Roll cage protection! Get the right answer, right now!
SEE US AT AHR 2012
888 364-3441
(Booth 4149) January 23-25 THE BEST WAY IS www.goodway.com/ tubecleaning
®
Input 34 at www.esmagazine.com/instantproductinfo
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NEVER A COMPROMISE FOR QUALITY OR SAFETY PARKER BOILER CO 5930 Bandini Blvd, Los Angeles, CA 90040 Ph. (323)727-9800 Fax (323) 722-2848 www.parkerboiler.com
[email protected] Input 16 at www.esmagazine.com/instantproductinfo
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PUMPS The Patterson Pump Company (#5185) will feature its EnviroFlo™ horizontal split case pumps, which offer a highefficiency design that minimizes energy consumption and provides easy serviceability without disturbing piping connections. Designed to deliver energy efficient flows to 6,000 gpm, with heads to 160 ft tdh, these pumps offer standard case working pressure at 175 psi with an optional 250 psi is available on select models. Victaulic (#4135) will highlight its Advanced Groove System (AGS), which is the company’s strongest largediameter grooved mechanical piping system. The only twopiece coupling on the market available in sizes up to 60 in. in diameter, AGS offers faster and simpler installation over couplings featuring multi-segment housings. AGS-joined pipe handles higher end loads and a higher-pressure rating up to 350 psi/2,410kPA, with a nominal three-to-one Victaulic (#4135) will highlight its safety factor. Advanced Groove System (AGS).
HUMIDIFIERS At booth #4410, Nortec will showcase its MH Series evaporative media humidifier, which provides both humidity and cooling while using less energy. The MH features an advanced polyester media, which can evaporate more moisture in less depth and has an industry leading UL 900 Class 1 smoke and flame rating. The MH Series is available in three models to suit any project, including an external recirculation module for recirculation units. This external module removes any mechanical and electrical components from the duct allowing for better fire ratings and easier maintenance. Vapac will introduce its VapaVoid horizontal packaged humidification system at booth #4753. The VapaVoid is specially designed for a drop ceiling area installation where wall space is limited. Its low profile cabinet includes a steam generator, a steam distributor, a low sound fan assembly, and all necessary operation and safety controls. For a complete installation, just provide a supply diffuser, a return grille, and insulated flexible duct in between. Installation is simplified with the multiple cabinet air inlets and outlets. MISCELLANEOUS For retrofits, the new AEGIS™ Shaft Voltage Test Kit makes it easier than ever to measure and document damaging VFDinduced voltages while there is still time to head off bearing
When you need humidity... and every kilowatt counts!
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Contact your Nortec agent today for a copy of our new white paper on evaporative media humidifiers.
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For a direct link to our white paper on evaporative media humidifiers, scan this barcode with your mobile phone.
Certificate No. 002419
Floored! damage and motor downtime. The kit provides a powerful tool for maintenance personnel and testing contractors. The result of a collaboration between Electro Static Technology (#3717) and Fluke Corporation (#5344) and available from both companies, the kit includes a special replaceable probe tip for highly accurate voltage readings on rotating equipment. SENSING AND POWER PRODUCTS Standex Electronics will feature a full line-up of fluid sensing and power products at booth #3771. These products, which include micro-reed switches, custom electronic transformers, reed switch-based fluid level sensors, custom electronic components, and the custom connections to make them all work properly and install easily, are suited for the demanding needs of the HVAC market. Tasseron is showcasing the Qwik Mini with Qwik Connects and tool-less snapon covers at booth #3446. The patent pending Qwik Connect technology
Tasseron is showcasing the Qwik Mini with Qwik Connects and tool-less snapon covers at booth #3446.
completely eliminates wire nuts, will not rattle loose, and are designed to save time and money on every installation. All Qwik Series products come with a 5-yr warranty, and are made from the highest quality materials. COMPRESSORS At booth #5310, Tecumseh Products Company will introduce its newest addition to the Masterflux product line — a Sierra variable-speed compressor
and system controller for solar-powered A/C applications. The new controller is designed to work specifically with the Masterflux Sierra compressor lineup, a high-efficiency BLDC rotary offering with a capacity range of 400 to 15,000 Btuh (114 to 4,440 W). The unit features integrated evaporator and condenser control, including fault and low voltage protection, and it also protects electronics when used with a solar array so that voltage will not exceed the rated values. ROOF CURBS Thybar Corporation will showcase its seismic/wind load-rated roof curbs at booth #4452. These rated curbs will resist the effects of site-specific forces determined according to the requirements of the International Building Code or other applicable codes. Curb walls are constructed of heavy gauge galvanized steel construction, and appropriate wall thickness is determined by project specific analysis of curb wall stresses generated
Mold-Resistant, Fiber-Free Duct Insulation Protects Indoor Air Quality. Available 25/50 rated in 1-1/2" (R-6) and 2" (R-8)
When it comes to safe, quiet, cost-effective air delivery systems, it’s what’s inside the duct that counts. That’s where AP Armaflex® SA and AP Coilflex® elastomeric foam duct liners are the most effective insulation for protecting Indoor Air Quality. AP Armaflex SA and AP Coilflex elastomeric foam A duct liners and wraps are fiber-free and have d exclusive EPA-registered Microban® antimicrobial ex protection built-in to inhibit the spread of mold. p They are low VOC, formaldehyde-free and meet T the stringent GREENGUARD Certification. th For more information on the IAQ protection F qualities of AP Armaflex SA and AP Coilflex: q Phone: 1 888-570-DUCT P Email:
[email protected] E Web site: www.armacell.us W
© 2011 Armacell LLC. MICROBAN is a registered trademark of Microban Products Company. The GREENGUARD Indoor Air Quality Certified Mark is a registered certification mark used under license through the GREENGUARD Environmental Institute. Made in USA. Patented AP Armaflex SA (self-adhesive) Patent pending AP Coilflex. ARMACELL LLC 7600 Oakwood Street Extension, Mebane, NC 27302
Input 88 at www.esmagazine.com/instantproductinfo
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Introducing Raypak’s New
VERSA IC Integrated Boiler Control
Raypak Leadership in Boiler Management The new modulating or stage fire VERSA ICTM fully integrates temperature control, ignition, safety and individual fault monitoring. Field upgradable. Raypak’s unique Cold Water Protection control function is now built in; simply add the appropriate 3-way valve or variable speed pump. A Modbus communications port is standard for continuous monitoring, trending, and trouble shooting. This cutting edge VERSA ICTM control platform will initially be incorporated into Raypak’s XFyre modulating condensing Hydronic and DHW boilers, and phased in to all product lines during 2012. Input 132 at www.esmagazine.com/instantproductinfo
Scan the QR code with your smart phone to learn more about the XFyre and Versa IC! Visit Raypak’s completely new website! It provides improved navigation, more information, easier document access and a fresh look and feel.
www.RAYPAK.com Raypak, Inc. 2151 Eastman Avenue • Oxnard, CA 93030 • 805-278-5300
Floored!
Thybar will showcase its seismic/wind load-rated roof curbs at booth #3446.
by the seismic/wind load acting on the roof top unit. Seismic/wind load-rated curbs can be provided in insulated, noninsulated and vibration isolated styles of various heights for sloped or flat roofs. COOLING TOWERS The TM Series cooling tower from Delta Cooling Towers (#2820) is available in 250 to 2,000 cooling tons. This engineered plastic molded tower provides longer
life, without the high maintenance and downtime typically associated with traditional metal towers. Features include: molded seamless leakproof sump with I-beam pockets, non-clog large orifice spray nozzles, double-wall seamless highdensity polyethylene shell, premium efficient direct-drive fans, and a 15-yr warranty on tower casing. The modular design allows various cells to be isolated if required. INSULATION CertainTeed Corporation (#4362) will introduce its WideWrap™ fiberglass duct wrap product with 5-ft width. WideWrap is a foil scrim kraft (FSK)faced flexible fiberglass blanket insulation used to insulate the exterior of rectangular and round HVAC ductwork to provide enhanced thermal efficiency that reduces unwanted heat loss or gain. When properly installed in the correct thickness, WideWrap virtually eliminates ductwork condensation problems that can often
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Uponor (#1836) will showcase its Radiant Rollout™ Mat.
lead to mold and microbial growth. In addition, WideWrap is GREENGUARD® Certified, making it suitable for green and LEED®-focused construction projects. RADIANT HEATING Uponor (#1836) will showcase the Uponor Radiant Rollout™ Mat, a customdesigned, prefabricated, pre-pressurized network of crosslinked polyethylene (PEXa) tubing for large commercial radiant heating and cooling applications. The mat consists of Wirsbo hePEX™ (oxygen barrier) or Uponor AquaPEX® (non-
Input 198 at www.esmagazine.com/instantproductinfo
Floored! barrier) PEX-a tubing connected with ProPEX® engineered plastic (EP) fittings, which are safe for burial in the slab and offer fast onsite customization when necessary. The mat can install about eight times faster than conventional radiant tubing installation methods, potentially shaving weeks off an installation schedule. AIR HANDLERS McQuay International (#4522) will feature its new Daikin McQuay Vision Plus air handler system at the AHR show in Chicago. This air handler system is for applications requiring high static pressure, low leak construction that are typically encountered when advanced filtration and energy recovery are required. The Vision Plus option provides the ability to attain a maximum of Class 6 leakage at up to +8 in. of internal static pressure per ASHRAE’s 111 Standard. This new option further expands the flexibility of the Vision line and is an optimal solution for applications requiring increased filtration.
HEAT PUMPS The new Daikin McQuay SmartSource™ water source heat pump (WSHP) product line will be previewed by McQuay International during AHR. The new line of WSHPs comes in a range of sizes and a breadth of options that include smart dehumidification, waterside economizers, and internal electric heat. The SmartSource platform is geothermal ready, including an option for factory-mounted loop water pumps. An optional 10-yr parts warranty is also available. The SmartSource inverter WSHP uses Daikin technology to continuously adjust compressor speeds, providing ultimate comfort to building occupants and very high-energy efficiencies. ClimateMaster (#1910) will feature its Tranquility Compact (TC) Series heat pump with a vertical cabinet. Available in sizes 6 tons through 10 tons with belt-drive blowers, multiple cabinet configurations, and efficiencies to meet new ASHRAE building standards, the TC Series has an extended range refrigerant circuit, capable
ClimateMaster (#1910) will feature its Tranquility Compact (TC) Series heat pump.
IN OVER YOUR HEAD TRYING TO CUT ENERGY COSTS?
Just look up … the answer is right there! Facility experts know that thermal stratification – the difference in air temperature between a floor and ceiling – is the single biggest waste of energy in buildings today. That’s why the Air Pear Thermal Equalizer, the only destratification fan system with our exclusive patented stator technology, is the most cost-effective strategy to cut your energy costs and improve workplace comfort. UÊ ÕÌÃÊiiÀ}ÞÊLÊ£xÊÌÊÎx¯Ê UÊ,i`ÕViÃÊ
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AIRIUS®, AIR PEAR®, and THE THERMAL EQUALIZER® are trademarks of Airius, LLC, registered in the U.S. and in some countries abroad. Other trademarks pending in the U.S. and abroad. © 2012 Airius LLC.
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Invest in Gold
Electric motors consume 63 percent of all electricity used in U.S. industry. Designed and built to meet or exceed NEMA Premium® efficiency standards, Baldor•Reliance® Super-E® motors run cooler, last longer and cost less every minute they operate.
• Energy Efficient • Unmatched Quality
Fractional to 15,000 Hp, Baldor•Reliance Super-E motors reduce your electricity costs with a return on your investment that’s as good as gold.
• Superior Reliability
baldor.com
• Quickest Delivery Available
479-646-4711
©2011 Baldor Electric Company Input 13 at www.esmagazine.com/instantproductinfo
Floored! of ground loop applications, ground water applications, as well as water loop (boilertower) applications. Standard features are microprocessor controls, galvanized steel cabinet, epoxy powder coat painted front access panels, galvanized steel with epoxy powder coat painted drain pan, and TXV refrigerant metering devices. PACKAGED SYSTEMS Harsco Industrial, PattersonKelley’s new fabricated system is meant to provide customers with limited risk while locking in outstanding performance. All of the system components — from pumps to controls to piping — are engineered to work together and factory skid-mounted to produce superior performance in the field. Combining space heating and domestic hot water in a completely integrated package, these modular skids can fit through a 36-in. doorway. They can be positioned and joined end-to-end, side-by-side, or even in an “L” or “T” shape. Fabricated systems can
Harsco Industrial, Patterson-Kelley’s new fabricated system will debut at booth #2810.
be installed virtually anywhere, requiring only a single-point electrical connection and connection to utilities (#2810). ENERGY MANAGEMENT / BAS AspectFT-Nexus™ from American Auto-Matrix® (#3410) combines building integration and energy control with mainstream technology. Energy data reports can be emailed to your home, a scheduled meeting adjusts the temperature of the meeting room, and your building
can detect when you have left and turn off the lights, all through conventional automation. AspectFT utilizes web applications such as Microsoft® Outlook® 2007, Apple® iCal®, Google Calendar™, Twitter™, Google Latitude™, and RSS feeds to accomplish these tasks and more. Innotech Control Systems (#3857) has released ATOM V2.0. ATOM is Innotech’s acquisition and total optimization management solution for building services such as electrical, water, gas, and thermal energy. ATOM ensures early detection of system inefficiencies, creates ongoing savings, and helps reduce your total carbon footprint. FieldServer Technologies (#3625) is demonstrating its full range of products at the AHR Expo Featured this year is the new QuickServer, a cost-effective, fully configurable, powerful gateway that incorporates the power of FieldServer backed by the proven FieldServer Technical Support Team. QuickServer can utilize any serial and/or Ethernet protocol found in
Lowering the Cost of High Ceilings™ Improve creature comfort, lower operating costs and reduce your carbon footprint!
Variable speed ZOO Fans gently mix the air, eliminating hot and cold spots. Occupants will appreciate the increased comfort, you will appreciate the quick payback and ongoing savings, and the planet will appreciate that your facility is using a lot less energy. Find out how efficient, economical ZOO Fans can improve thermal comfort in your Zone Of Occupancy!
859.918.9978
Call or click today!
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zoofans.com
THE MOST RADICAL FIRETUBE BOILER IN THE WORLD DESERVES A LITTLE PIZZAZZ. Introducing the new CBEX When we decided to revolutionize the firetube, we challenged ourselves to build a completely new system from the ground up. Our new EX technology is at the heart of a whole new way to experience efficiency. We optimized the tubes for better heat transfer. We optimized the geometry of the furnace for near-perfect combustion. Then we integrated the burner and the controls. Every core component has been designed and built to work together, resulting in the most fuel-efficient and lowest-emissions firetube system ever.
Visit cleaverbrooks.com/EX or call 1.800.250.5883.
Be sure to stop by booth #4546 at the 2012 AHR Expo to see the new CBEX Firetube system and discover how we’ve changed the game – again. WHAT MAKES THE CBEX DIFFERENT FROM ANY OTHER BOILER IN THE WORLD? Lighter Weight and Smaller Footprint achieved through less heating surface for the same BTU output as traditional firetubes. On average, has a 15% smaller footprint and weighs 20% less than traditional boilers.
Extended Pressure Vessel Life resulting from uniform furnace temperature and reduced turnaround gas temperature. Industryleading 15-year pressure vessel limited warranty.
Highest Fuel Efficiency Maintains 3% 02 across a 10:1 turndown range, achieving the highest operating efficiency of any firetube.
Lowest Possible NOx can attain sub-5 ppm without Selective Catalytic Reduction (SCR) on select models.
©2012 Cleaver-Brooks, Inc. Input 73 at www.esmagazine.com/instantproductinfo
Quick Steam Up is 20% faster than traditional firetubes, due to smaller footprint and lower water volume.
Floored! the extensive FieldServer driver library. Also featured this year is the upgraded FS-B35 Series FieldServer, bringing together the powerful FieldServer driver library with the latest in gateway design. Upgrades include a new processing system, multiple ports, and features that range from COV. PIPING Metraflex (#4246) now offers Revit files for virtually all of its engineered piping products, including seismic joints, expansion joints, valves, compensators, strainers, pipe guides, air vents, and more. With features and important information embedded in the files, Metraflex Revit files help engineers ensure the right products will be specified and installed in the engineered piping system. For your free files, visit Metraflex.com/revit. Metraflex (#4246) is offering Revit files for virtually all of its engineered piping products.
SENSORS An integrated CO2 sensor joins the list of sensing options available in KMC’s popular FlexStat, an integrated BACnet advanced application controller and sensor. The device has been available with temperature, humidity, and occupancy sensors. Newly introduced models of FlexStat add CO2 sensors and demand control ventilation sequences. Like other built-in programming, the DCV sequences are available directly through the device menu — no PC or software is needed for set-up. When using applications with a modulating economizer option, the three types of DCV configurations are available (#3735). Honeywell Analytics (#3810) introduces the IAQPoint2, a touchscreen, customizable monitor with ability to control three IAQ parameters (CO2, VOCs, temperature and humidity). The unit boosts energy efficiency, fresh air comfort, and the alertness and performance of building occupants through its on-demand ventilation activation, with relays triggering fans locally or via a BAS. FILTRATION The National Air Filtration Association (NAFA, #1227) has released the new third edition of its Installation, Operation and Maintenance of Air Filtration Systems. The new text has two new chapters, along with updates and revisions throughout the book so that your technicians will have the latest information on best practice in air filtration service. This text will be the new text for the NAFA Certified Technician program beginning after April 2012. To get your copy, go to www. nafahq.org and download the order. ES The National Air Filtration Association (NAFA, #1227) has released the new third edition of its Installation, Operation and Maintenance of Air Filtration Systems.
Input 143 at www.esmagazine.com/instantproductinfo
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ACR PowerBullet - Power / Energy Transducers
Industrial Water Filter Conserves Rinse Water
The new ACR PowerBullet is a power and energy transducer designed for monitoring demand and consumption in residential, commercial and industrial applications. The outputs of this line-powered, phase-to-phase unit are compatible with the Voltage and Pulse inputs of most measurement systems.
• • • • •
Automatic Self-Cleaning Line Pressure Powered Screens down to 10 microns 1 inch to 20 inch line sizes Single Unit flow rates to 12,000 gpm
Orival, Inc.
ACR Systems, Inc. 1-800-663-7845 www.acrsystems.com
[email protected]
201-568-3311 • FAX 201-568-1916 800-567-9767 fi
[email protected]
WWW.ORIVAL.COM
CIRCLE NO. 803 / BOOTH NO. 3815 CIRCLE NO. 853
CIRCLE NO. 832 / BOOTH NO. 6440
CIRCLE NO. 821
HUMIDITY CONTROL FOR INDOOR POOLS — THE PERFECT BALANCE OF WATER & AIR IN ONE SIMPLE PACKAGED SOLUTION FOR POOL ROOM DEHUMIDIFICATION Environmental Pool Systems announces our new WR series with Hot Water Reheat. Lower head pressures, colder evaporators and 16-21% high latent capacities provides major reduction in service and maintenance costs for pool room dehumidification systems. Along with the new WR Series, EPS continues to build our standard systems and the only company to build DRY-AIR geothermal open/ closed loop systems. Our turnkey packages include engineering, building design guidelines, air delivery design and more. Visit us at our new website www.dry-air.com or call 800-514-7051 CIRCLE NO. 815
www.forstafilters.com info@forstafilters.com 1-888-9-FORSTA • Ideal for Equipment Protection CIRCLE NO. 846 • Stainless Steel Construction • Backwash will not Disrupt System Flow • Filtration Grades from 5μ to 5,000μ • Flow Rates from 15gpm to 8,000gpm
CIRCLE NO. 820
Show Product Guide
2
ACR SmartReader Plus 2 – 4 Channel Temperature and Relative Humidity Data Logger with 10 Year Battery The SmartReader Plus 2 is a self-contained data logger that can monitor and record temperature and relative humidity - right out of the box. The on-board RH sensor is temperature compensated, permitting reliable, worry-free RH readings. For remote sensing of temperature and RH, simply attach ACR's temperature/RH probe, or for remote temperature sensing, attach ACR's thermistor probe. ACR Systems, Inc. 1-800-663-7845
www.acrsystems.com
[email protected]
CIRCLE NO. 804 / BOOTH NO.3815
UNILUX ADVANCED MANUFACTURING, LLC
Energy Efficient Heater
The unique UNILUX 5 pass flexible water tube boiler design is simply the finest in its class. With standard operating efficiencies at 85% and a standard 20-year warranty against thermal shock damage, UNILUX provides a built-in savings/insurance policy with every boiler we manufacture. Size range from 20 BHP to 2000 BHP offers maximum application flexibility. • Boilers available as factory packaged or field erected. • Outdoor installation? UNILUX has you covered. Custom enclosures a specialty. • Highest quality. • Fast delivery. Old enough to know more, young enough to do more. UNILUX ADVANCED MANUFACTURING, LLC. TEL: 518-344-7490 FAX: 518-344-7495 www.uniluxam.com CIRCLE NO. 855 / BOOTH NO. 4173
POLYPROPYLENE FANS & BLOWERS Quality and Reliable Systems for over 40 years worldwide
Applications:
Features:
• Chemical Hoods • Waste Water Treatment • Odor Control Equipment • Industrial Washers Exhaust • Chemical Storage Cabinets
• All Polypropylene Construction • Seamless, High Density Housing • 20 to 4,500 CFM, up to 12Ý SP • Ease of Installation • Low Noise Level • Innovative Design
Cambridge Blow-Thru® Space Heaters save energy and improve indoor air quality. Direct-fired Blow-Thru Heaters with proprietary Cambridge burners offer 100% combustion efficiency, are ASHRAE 90.1 compliant and can qualify for EPAct Federal Tax benefits. Energy modeling and utility bills document 40% to 70% energy savings. Applications include warehouses, manufacturing plants, parking garages, automobile service areas, indoor sports facilities, aircraft hangars and other buildings with large open spaces. Cambridge Engineering, Inc. Chesterfield, MO www.cambridge-eng.com 800-899-1989 CIRCLE NO. 808
Easy and Affordable Combustible Gas Leak Detection from TPI The TPI 719 is easily operated with one hand. Gas leaks (30 ppm methane and/or equivalent) are pinpointed using audio and visual alarms. Adjustable “tic” rate offers ability to eliminate bothersome background gases in contaminated environments. Leak checks should be done before and after all service work involving gas fired equipment. Learn more about the TPI 719, $99.95 limited time price, and other gas detection instruments at www.testproductsintl. com, or 1-800-368-5719. Test Products International (TPI), 800-368-5719 www.testproductsintl.com
CIRCLE NO. 854 / BOOTH NO. 5727 JET Series In-Line or Roof Curb Fan
Laboratory Hood Airflow Monitors/ Control
STORM Series STORM Series developed for low volume, and high Static Pressure applications
PLASTEC Series Centrifugal Blowers
PSS Series All 316 Stainless Steel Construction
Hydra-Zorb TRH Hanger System Hydra-Zorb Co. has introduced their new TRH Hanger system for supporting a pair of insulated liquid and suction lines. The hanger can be fitted or adjusted in seconds and can also be used to secure lines to flat surfaces. Designed for 5/16” and 3/8” rod. HydraZorb has been the leader in the strut-mounted clamp market since 1966, offering a wide variety of solutions to shock, vibration and corrosion problems.
Call (248) 373-5151 or visit www.hydra-zorb.com.
PLASTEC VENTILATION, INC., Bradenton, FL Phone: (941) 751-7596 • Fax: (941) 751-7598 • www.plastecvent.net CIRCLE NO. 836 / BOOTH NO. 6340
CIRCLE NO. 822 / BOOTH NO. 4771
Show Product Guide
3
Cemline Corporation Plate Water Heaters (BPH/PFH)
Condensate Return, Boiler Feed, Vacuum Return Systems
The BPH/PFH are a perfect solution for producing domestic hot water heated by condensing hydronic boilers. The BPH uses a brazed plate heat exchanger, while the PFH uses a plate and frame heat exchanger. The BPH/PFH heat exchanger allows the boilers to operate more efficiently by lowering the return temperature of the boiler water to the hydronic boiler than the traditional u-bend heat exchanger. Finally, the condensing boiler can be operated at lower temperatures still producing hot domestic water. Cemline Plate Heaters (BPH/PFH) are completely packaged and ready for use.
Bulletin HP-1 covers custom-built condensate return, as well as complete boiler feed systems. Several 2’ NPSHR pumps available as standard selections. Three series of vacuum return or boiler feed can accommodate special space requirements. Our industry leading standard ratings range from 5 C.F.M. to 150 C.F.M. Also shown the multi-stage condensate, or boiler feed systems, which can accommodate discharge pressure to 250 PSI.
Cemline Corporation, Cheswick, PA. www.cemline.com, 1-800-245-6268 CIRCLE NO. 809 / BOOTH NO. 2839
QuickServer Building Automation Gateway from FieldServer Technologies QuickServer a high-performance, fully-configurable gateway packs the proven power of FieldServer into a cost-effective package for the building automation industry. It includes the robust FieldServer protocol conversion software backed by the trusted, knowledgeable FieldServer support team that integrators have come to trust. • Interface up to 250 points • BACnet, LonWorks, Metasys by JCI, Modbus, SNMP • BTL Marked
FieldServer Technologies 408-262-2299 www.fieldserver.com/QuickServer/ CIRCLE NO. 819 / BOOTH NO. 3625
Skidmore, Benton Harbor, MI www.skidmorepump.com CIRCLE NO. 848
Bradford White’s Ultra-Efficient, Eco Friendly eF Series® Line Continues to Grow Bradford White’s eF Series® commercial water heaters offer incredible delivery and super fast recovery. They are the perfect choice for building managers and business owners that want to “Go Green”. EcoFriendly eF models offer remarkable efficiency ratings – as high as 99.1%! The newest model, a 100 - gallon, 399,999 BTU/Hr gives you the highest output with 521-gallons of hot water in the first hour of use. Other models include 60-gallon capacities with 125,000, 150,000 and 199,999 BTU’s and in 100-gallon capacities with 150,000, 199,999, 250,000, 300,000 and 399,999 BTU’s.
Bradford White, Ambler, PA www.bradfordwhite.com CIRCLE NO. 807 / BOOTH NO. 2624
Show Product Guide
4 Unique New Integrated Boiler Control From Raypak The new modulating or stage fire VERSA IC™ fully integrates temperature control, ignition, safety and individual fault monitoring. Field upgradable. Raypak’s unique Cold Water Protection control function is now built in; simply add the appropriate 3-way valve or variable speed pump. A Modbus communications port is standard for continuous monitoring, trending, and trouble shooting. This cutting edge VERSA IC™ control platform will initially be incorporated into Raypak’s XFyre modulating condensing Hydronic and DHW boilers by December 2011, and phased in to all product lines during 2012. Please contact your local Raypak Rep, or visit www.raypak.com CIRCLE NO. 837 / BOOTH NO. 5327
New: Raypak Website Update Raypak is pleased to announce the availability of its’ new, modernized website, launched November 1, 2011. During November we’ve been Beta Testing the website with our sales force. We had some excellent, constructive feedback that has been incorporated. To insure continuity over the last sixty years of product innovation, the previous “Document Library” is still accessible by link. General feedback from our reps and customers has been extremely positive. Check it out at www.raypak.com CIRCLE NO. 840 / BOOTH NO. 5327
Raypak Announces a New Buffer Tank Application and Sizing Guide
Professional Atmospheric Digital Gas Heater
High recovery boilers may need buffer tanks when unusually small zones are in the system design. These tanks seldom exceed 40 - 140 gallons. Our sizing formulas consider minimum loop loads and retain the nimble response of Raypak boilers. Adding system volume with separate buffer tanks retains the boilers ability to shut down during low demand, with no short cycling. Minimal vent losses explain why Raypak high recovery boilers afford ultimate seasonal efficiency. 5 standard sizes, 40 – 139 gallons. Visit the Raypak website at www.raypak.com.
Raypak is pleased to announce our new line Professional Series gas fired pool heaters. Created specifically for smaller commercial properties and high-end residential pools where esthetics and durability are key. With its abundant use of stainless steel inside and out, it’s perfect for tough coastal weather conditions where salt air is a problem. Offered in two model sizes, a 268 with 266,000 Mbtu input, and a 408 with 399 Mbtu input. All waterways are nonferrous with cupro-nickel tubes, and bronze headers. Standard with ASME certification. Also included is a pre-wired flow switch and T&P. For more information visit our website at www.raypak.com.
CIRCLE NO. 838 / BOOTH NO. 5327
Raypak Water Heaters/Hot Water Supply Boilers Verified Low Lead Since January, all Raypak products manufactured to heat potable water have been verified by an accredited third party testing agency (CSA) to meet new low lead requirements, pursuant to California AB1953. A weighted average maximum of 0.25% lead content for all wetted surfaces where the water may be used for human consumption is incorporated, with verification decals, into every Raypak water heater/hot water supply boiler sold in California after January 1, 2010. Similar low lead requirements are also the law in Vermont. History has shown that other states follow California’s lead. Federal Statues requiring the same lowered lead levels will go into effect in just over two years. Visit the Raypak website at www.raypak.com. CIRCLE NO. 839 / BOOTH NO. 5327
Lowering the Cost of High Ceilings™
Variable speed ZOO Fans gently mix the air in spaces with high ceilings, eliminating hot and cold spots. Comfort goes up, heating and cooling costs go down. Small fans, BIG savings.
Call or Click Today! 855-ZOO-FANS zoofans.com (855-966-3267) CIRCLE NO. 856 / BOOTH NO. 3474
CIRCLE NO. 841 / BOOTH NO. 5327
Temp-Tracker Mod+ Hybrid With Optional BACnet® BMS Link The Hybrid control concept affords more opportunities to stay within budget guidelines, while maintaining the total benefits of the condensing design. For new and replacement installations as well as additions and retrofits, Raypak’s TempTracker Mod+ Hybrid control is capable of integrating all Raypak and most other major boiler platforms. There can be a mix of stage-fire and modulation, condensing and non-condensing, all with the new optional BACnet® BMS link. Can be used on existing and retro-fit installations.
See the video at our website at www.raypak.com CIRCLE NO. 842 / BOOTH NO. 5327
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Roof Ventilators | Fiberglass Fans
Cabinet Cooling | Plenum & Plug Fans
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Residential Fans & Air Purification Systems
Wall Fans | Utility Fans
Bathroom Fans | In-line Duct Fans
Cabinet & Exhaust Fans
External Mount Duct Fans
Roof Fans | BDD & IRIS Dampers
Dryer Boosting | Air Purification
Visit us at AHR Expo Booth No. 1900
www.continentalfan.com
Input 800 at www.esmagazine.com/instantproductinfo
USA - Continental Fan Manufacturing Inc. Inc
Canada - Continental Fan Canada Inc.
203 Eggert Road, Buffalo, NY 14215 T: 716-842-0670 • 800-779-4021 • F: 716-842-0611
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Visit continentalfan.com and enter search code CFM-ES for easy access to featured products in this ad.
Show Product Guide
6 ONICON F-3500 Insertion Electromagnetic Flow Meter ONICON’s F-3500 Insertion Electromagnetic Flow Meter is engineered to excel in demanding water flow measurement applications. With no moving parts, the F-3500 is reliable even in challenging open loop applications. The hand insertable hot tap design provides quick, easy installation, and every meter is individually wet calibrated to N.I.S.T. traceable standards, programmed for your application, and accurate to within 1% of rate.
Contact ONICON Incorporated at 727-447-6140 or www.onicon.com for more information. CIRCLE NO. 828 / BOOTH NO. 3429
ONICON F-5000 Series Thermal Mass Flow Meter ONICON’s F-5000 Series Thermal Mass Flow Meters provide accurate mass flow measurement of natural gas, compressed air and other industrial gases. The proprietary sensor design measures mass flow directly and does not require additional pressure or temperature compensation to deliver accurate flow data. Both the inline and insertion versions are provided with a bright, easyto-read multifunction display, and both include a 4-20 mA output for flow rate, and a separate pulse output for totalizing flow.
Contact ONICON Incorporated at 727-447-6140 or www.onicon.com for more information.
CIRCLE NO. 829 / BOOTH NO. 3429
Flash Economizer Continuous Blowdown Heat Recovery System Brochure F-1.25 Penn Separator’s newly designed brochure F-1.25 describes our highly efficient Flash Economizer Heat Recovery System. The new brochure is complete with specification, installation and sizing chart information. This efficient heat recovery system recovers up to 90% of all BTU’s and pays for itself in less than six months. Call us at 1(888) PENNSEP for the nearest representative or visit our website at: www.pennseparator.com. Penn Separator Corporation, Brookville, PA
CIRCLE NO. 835
ACR TRH-1000 Temperature and Relative Humidity Data Logger with 5 Year Battery ACR’s TRH-1000 is an economical and easy-to-use temperature and relative humidity data logger. With its precision calibrated internal temperature and relative humidity sensor, simply place the logger in the field to record. Once the desired information has been recorded, view the collected data with the included TrendReader® Express software. ACR Systems, Inc. 1-800-663-7845
www.acrsystems.com
[email protected] CIRCLE NO. 805 / BOOTH NO. 3815
ONICON System-10 BTU Meter ONICON’s System-10 BTU Meter is a highly accurate microprocessor-based instrument designed to provide energy, flow and temperature data via the front panel LCD and optional serial/analog outputs. It is the ideal choice for networking to building control systems via BACnet®, LONWORKS®, MODBUS®, Siemens P1 and Johnson N2 protocols. Differential temperature accuracy is within ± 0.15°F over the calibrated range.
Contact ONICON Incorporated at 727-447-6140 or www.onicon.com for more information.
CIRCLE NO. 830 / BOOTH NO. 3429
ONICON F-4000 Series Flow Meter ONICON’s F-4000 Series Clamp-on Ultrasonic Flow Meters offer an ideal solution for measuring liquid flow in existing systems when it is impractical to install hot tap insertion style flow meters. Utilizing the differential transit-time measurement approach combined with proprietary algorithms, each meter is delivered fully programmed for a specific application and offers 1-2% of rate accuracy. Optional N.I.S.T. traceable calibration is also available.
Contact ONICON Incorporated at 727-447-6140 or www.onicon.com for more information. CIRCLE NO. 831 / BOOTH NO. 3429
Energy-Saving EC Powered Fans From Fantech Fantech's EC powered fans give you a new choice in energy-efficient ventilation. EC fans consume 30-50% less energy than AC fans. Choose from a series of Inline Fans (FG-EC) or Roof/Wall Ventilators (DDU-EC). Inline fans are available in duct sizes from 6" to 12" and are Energy Star qualified. The new EC Roof/Wall Ventilators are available in 10" to 18" and are ideal for applications requiring demand control ventilation. An exclusive modular controller is included with all DDU-EC Series fans. UL 705 and UL762 Listed.
Fantech, Inc. www.fantech.net 800-747-1762 CIRCLE NO. 818 / BOOTH NO. 6146
Parker Condensing Series 205 TC Hot Water Boilers Parker Boiler, now offers its TC Series of Condensing Hot Water Boilers. The Boiler is available in sizes from 399,000 up to 5,443,000 BTU Input with stainless steel construction for resistance to corrosion at low operating temperatures. This offering is a proven European design built for extremely high efficiency. Efficiencies to 99.7% have been witnessed and verified by a Nationally Recognized Test Lab. The units are available with conventional gas burners or Low NOx power type burners. The units are ETL Listed as complete “Gas Fired Boiler Assemblies” per UL 795. Units under 2.0 MM BTUH input completing SCAQMD 1146.2 certification.
PARKER BOILER CO. 5930 Bandini Blvd., Los Angeles, CA 90040 Ph. (323) 727-9800 Fax (323) 722-2848 www.parkerboiler.com
[email protected]
CIRCLE NO. 833 BOOTH NO. 1757
Show Product Guide NO-CLOG DRYER DUCT BOOSTER® IMPROVES EFFICIENCY & SAFETY Tjernlund’s residential capacity Dryer Duct Booster® is ideal for restrictive or long dryer exhaust duct runs over 25 equivalent feet. Saves energy by reducing drying times up to 50%. Reduces lint build-up, dust and fire hazard potential. The Dryer Duct Booster® maintains proper velocity in duct runs up to 100 equivalent feet. It features the Lint Blitzer™ material handling blower wheel and a 5 year no-clog guarantee. Plugs into standard 115 VAC outlet and is automatically activated by clothes dryer. 50 watt, permanently lubricated motor is not exposed to heat, lint or moisture.
Tjernlund Products, Inc. • 800-255-4208 www.tjernlund.com CIRCLE NO. 850 / BOOTH NO. 4022
7 ECONOMICAL ROOFTOP DRAFT INDUCERS SAVE ENERGY WITH (COP) CONTROL Up to 30% cheaper than competitors, RTSeries rooftop inducers for gas, oil, solid fuel & general ventilation keep the entire vent system under a negative pressure. Now available with the Constant Operating Pressure Control (COP) which enables the inducer to maintain a user set system pressure by modulating the inducer motor speed to meet fluctuating draft and exhaust demands while reducing inducer motor power consumption by up to 70%. Self-cleaning backward inclined impeller repels soot build-up and patented auxiliary cooling system protects motor from excessive heat. Includes mounting kit for metal & tile flues.
Tjernlund Products, Inc. • 800-255-4208 • www.tjernlund.com CIRCLE NO. 852 / BOOTH NO. 4022
RADON VAC™ SIDE WALL RADON EXHAUST SYSTEM REDUCES MATERIAL & LABOR COSTS
ENHANCE PERFORMANCE OF DUCTLESS HEATING/COOLING, PTAC & STOVES / FIREPLACES
The effective, affordable way to reduce radon levels in existing homes by side wall venting. The Radon Vac™ eliminates intrusive PVC pipe runs vertically through living areas or ugly PVC runs on home exterior. Engineered to reduce radon across a variety of sub-slab soil types (dirt, gravel, etc.). It features a sealed, galvanized housing and a PSC permanently lubricated, quiet, low watt motor. The corrosion-proof Radon Vac™ Variable Aspiration Control Hood dilutes the radon gas with infused outdoor air and propels it away from the home. Airflow velocity is easily adjustable at the hood to accommodate the length of pipe run and extraction point from a sump pit or below basement floor. Typically installed between floor joists it only requires a 4” hole through basement rim joist.
Ultra quiet, AireShare™ Room-to-Room & Level-toLevel ventilators transfer heated/cooled air through interior walls/floors to uncomfortable rooms. Move air to rooms that are not directly served by ductless heating/ cooling, split system, PTAC & window A/C units. Also great for electric baseboard, stoves & fireplaces. All models move air up or down for application flexibility. Helps to destratify stagnant air and improve ventilation rates inside home for greater comfort. Hardwire and Plug-in versions.
Tjernlund Products, Inc. • 800-255-4208 • www.tjernlund.com CIRCLE NO. 851 / BOOTH NO. 4022
Tjernlund Products, Inc. • 800-255-4208 www.tjernlund.com CIRCLE NO. 853 / BOOTH NO. 4022
CIRCLE NO. 823/BOOTH NO.4771
www.MONSTERDRY.com www.MONSTERDRY.com www.MONSTERDRY.com www.MONSTERDRY.com www.MONSTERDRY.com CIRCLE NO. 816
CIRCLE NO. 817
Show Product Guide
8 Hydrotherm KN Series Condensing Cast Iron Boilers
Smith Offers HeatNet on 28HE RTS Boilers
Hydrotherm KN boilers are available in sizes ranging from 200 MBH to 3000 MBH with ultra high efficiencies of up to 99%. KN boilers feature HeatNet, an on board proprietary control platform that constantly monitors and adjusts boiler performance for maximum efficiency. HeatNet can network up to 16 boilers and communicate with a BMS. KN Series boilers are engineered to provide extremely low CO2 and NOx emissions – all in a small footprint. Hydrotherm HeatNet is an honorable mention 260 North Elm Street winner of the prestigious 2012 AHRExpo Innovation Awards Westfield, MA 01085 (413) 564-5515 www.hydrothermkn.com CIRCLE NO. 824 / BOOTH NO. 4269, 4369, 4569
Smith Cast Iron Boilers now offers the HeatNet Integrated boiler control platform designed to provide Series 28HE RTS boilers with a state-of-the-art boiler management system. HeatNet utilizes digital communication to monitor multiple system demands and regulate boiler firing rates to maximize the efficiency of any application including mixed boiler configurations where both condensing and non-condensing boilers are being utilized in hybrid boiler applications.
RBI Futera XLF Now Available in 2,500 and 3,500 MBH
SpacePak Expands Product Line SpacePak, the original small duct high velocity (SDHV), expands their line comfort system solutions to include zoning controls, air-to-water heat pumps and combi boilers. The new SpacePak Chiller Series reverse cycle heat pumps provides a condenser coil that is 30% larger than traditional units to provide a single source for heating and cooling with the comfort of hydronics. Thermapak, a 93% efficient condensing wallhung "combi" boiler and domestic hot water package is the ideal solution for all your domestic water needs.
RBI Water Heaters has expanded their product offering to include two new sizes, 2500 and 3500 MBH, in the popular Futera XLF product line. These high-efficiency, near-condensing, copperfin boilers are now available in four sizes ranging 2,500 to 4,000 MBH with full modulation and a 5:1 turndown. Ultra compact XLF units fit easily through standard size doors and feature HeatNet technology, an on-board digital monitoring and control device which allows up to 16 units to be linked together or to a BMS for optimal system performance. HeatNet is an honorable mention RBI Water Heaters winner of the prestigious 2012 260 North Elm St. AHRExpo Innovation Awards Westfield, MA 01085 (413) 568-9671, www.rbiwaterheaters.com
CIRCLE NO. 826 BOOTH NO. 4269, 4369, 4569
Energy Recovery Wheels In today’s crucial energy climate it is important to reduce the cost of heating and cooling buildings. We can help with Green-Save™ energy recovery wheels for ventilation air systems. Reduce boiler and chiller operating costs. Now AHRI certified. Our exclusive Ion desiccant is designed for low co-adsorption of non-water vapors. This provides extremely low desiccant carryover of odors or cleaning solutions. Installations include health care, offices, research labs, universities, dormitories, any building requiring ventilation for improved IAQ and comfort. Sizes to 75,000 cfm. SG America 507-214-2715
[email protected]; www.SGAmerica.com CIRCLE NO. 847/BOOTH NO. 1743
Smith Cast Iron Boilers HeatNet is an honorable mention 260 North Elm Street winner of the prestigious 2012 AHRExpo Innovation Awards Westfield, MA 01085 (413) 562-9631 www.smithboiler.com CIRCLE NO. 825 / BOOTH NO. 4269, 4369, 4569
SpacePak 260 North Elm Street Westfield, MA 01085 (800) 465-8558 Fax (413) 564-5815 www.spacepak.com CIRCLE NO. 827 BOOTH NO. 4269, 4369, 4569
ACR SmartReader Plus 4 Low Pressure Differential Data Logger with 10 Year Battery The SmartReader Plus 4 LPD (Low Pressure Differential) logger is a two channel logger with internal pressure and temperature sensors. The low pressure sensor is built into the logger and is capable of measuring low gauge and differential pressure. ACR’s SmartReader Plus 4 is capable of storing up to 21,500 readings. ACR Systems, Inc. 1-800-663-7845
www.acrsystems.com
[email protected]
CIRCLE NO. 806/BOOTH NO. 3815
Vertical In-Line HVAC Pumps - Split-Coupled Patterson EnviroFloTM vertical in-line pumps offer reliability and full flexibility in a high-efficiency design that minimizes energy consumption and provides easy access for maintenance. The split-coupled configuration is available above 5 HP and is designed to deliver energy efficient flows to 10,000 gpm with heads to 400 ft tdh. These pumps offer standard case working pressure at 175 psi with optional 325 psi available on many models. Patterson Pump Company Toccoa, Georgia, 706-886-2101, Fax: 706-886-0023 E-mail:
[email protected] www.enviroflopumps.com CIRCLE NO. 834/BOOTH NO. 5185
CIRCLE NO. 857
Show Product Guide
9
EcoFlex
Flue Draft and CO Safety Monitor
The EcoFlex is the ultimate economizer system for commercial boiler and water heater systems. The unique design consists of an inline power venter with an integrated economizer unit with stainless steel tubes – very simple, in a compact design. The system can operate in a condensing or non-condensing mode.
The EBC 35 draft control with CO-monitor is an easy way to safe-proof your boiler facility. An integrated Proven Draft Switch function assures that if sufficient draft cannot be maintained, the control will lock out the boiler(s) within an adjustable time period. The CO transmitter with LCD display monitors CO levels on location. The CO monitor meets OSHA and other safety requirements.
• Seven standard sizes • Energy savings up to 5% • Variable speed and direct drive • Natural gas, LP gas and oil • Ultra-quiet • 316 stainless steel fin-tubes • Simple construction – easy service • Low profile – easy to integrate • Install vertically or horizontally
For more information call (800) 255-2923 or visit www.enervex.com CIRCLE NO. 813/BOOTH NO. 5049
• • • • • •
CO monitoring and CO level display Daisy-chain multiple CO monitors 0 to 125 ppm Boiler safety interlock Draft control and monitoring Minimum 2-year sensor life span
For more information call (800) 255-2923 or visit www.enervex.com CIRCLE NO. 814/BOOTH NO. 5049
2-Stage High Intensity Infra-Red Heaters
E-Mon D-Mon® The Engineer’s Choice for Metering™
Solaronics’ energy efficient “SunTwin” 2-Stage high intensity gas-fired infrared heaters eliminate excess heat when not needed and are capable of faster recovery times when temperatures fall. Fuel savings of 40-75% over conventional warm air type heaters can be achieved. Applications include loading docks, airplane hangars, warehouses, and manufacturing facilities. 6 models available to heat any size building.
Choose the leader for your electric, gas, water and steam metering applications. E-Mon products have been preferred for over 25 years for applications such as tenant allocation, energy analysis, usage management in addition to supporting conservation programs such as LEED and the Energy Policy Act.
Solaronics, Inc., Rochester, MI 800-223-5335 www.solaronicsusa.com CIRCLE NO. 849/BOOTH NO. 2335
EX Firetube Boiler Technology The CBEX Elite achieves the highest fuel efficiency and lowest emissions of any available firetube system. It maintains 3% oxygen across the full operating range and can meet California legislation requiring 5 ppm NOx at Sub 50 ppm CO. The CBEX can also meet the federal EPA objective of 30 ppm NOx with 1 ppm CO. See us at booth 4546. www.cleaverbrooks.com/EX
[email protected] 800-250-5883 CIRCLE NO. 810 / BOOTH NO. 4546
For complete information on E-Mon’s line of metering products and systems visit www.emon.com or call (800) 334-3666. CIRCLE NO. 811/BOOTH NO. 3756
The System Integrator’s Choice For Metering, V-Class Electric Meters from E-Mon D-Mon. Available with a variety of communication options including EZ-7 protocol to interface with E-Mon Energy software, Modbus TCP and BACNet for easy interface with new or existing Building Automation Systems. Features include an 8-digit display, split core current sensors for installation without power interruption, equipped with two external inputs for interface with gas, water, etc. meters and Modbus RTU standard with 38+ metering registers. For information on how to upgrade your BAS to include energy monitoring contact E-Mon at (800) 334-3666 or visit www.emon.com CIRCLE NO. 812/BOOTH NO. 3756
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For the fifth straight year, Bradford White is the tank water heater brand most purchased by professional contractors. And again, we are the most recommended brand.
www.bradfordwhite.com
“We made the switch to Bradford White almost 15 years ago when we started having problems with another brand. Our reputation depends on the products we recommend so quality and reliability are critical. We couldn’t be happier. Bradford White is loyal to the plumbing profession. Their products and people are top notch.” Kevin and Ryan Carney - Carney Plumbing – Heating – Cooling, Line Lexington, PA
The results of the 2010
And now our support for you gets
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Input 128 at www.esmagazine.com/instantproductinfo *Ranking is based on the 2006, 2007, 2008, 2009 and 2010 CLEAReports by Clear Seas Research. Please visit www.clearseasresearch.com for additional information. © 2011, Bradford White Corporation. All rights reserved.
So Charles Dickens, Ferris Bueller, a chicken, and a pig walk into an HVAC article … and try to sort out proper use of outdoor air in data centers. As you might imagine, it’s not simple. But if you remember these three design absolutes and consider your client’s specific perspective, the resulting efficiencies might have you singing Wayne Newton at the prospect of repeat business. BY KEVIN DICKENS, P.E.
A
lthough I’m writing this in December, you will likely be reading it in January, and hopefully you will be at McCormick Place where the 2012 AHR Expo is being held this year. Every three years, the Big Show comes to Chi-town. And while I love Chicago, you have to admit that having your signature conference in the [Very Cold and] Windy City in the throes of winter defies conventional wisdom. In fact, as my wife pointed out the one year she came along, leave it to a bunch of engineers to hold their most important industry event during the coldest time of the year on the banks of Lake Michigan when the beaches of any number of warm ocean destinations beckon. I must confess I didn’t have a logical counterargument for my lovely bride. And speaking of conventional wisdom, you might have your very own Oprah-esque “ah-ha” moment as you briskly walk to your shuttle bus, and conclude that a data center with a direct outdoor air (OA) economizer would really make sense in a climate such as this. But caution, my datacom compadres, there is a vocal “close that darn window” chorus out there that has a logical counter-argument. So in this article, we will take a moment to understand this argument before, like Cubs fan Steve Bartman in that fateful Game 6 of the 2003 National League Championship Series, you become a hapless victim of your own singular focus.
54
En gi n e e r e d Sy stem s
January 2012
SOME DATA CENTER OLD-TIME RELIGION Before we begin, I want to layout what I consider the givens of modern data center operation and design. I have concluded that at every opportunity, I must be an evangelist for common sense data center design, and, for me, the data center design absolutes are: • Recognize the recommended • Advance the allowed • Separate the streams Recognize the recommended. The “recommended” are the “ASHRAE Recommended Thermal Guidelines.” The recommended ranges shouldn’t be a matter of debate any longer. If you are not designing a new data center to operate within, or optimizing an existing data center to eventually function inside, the latest absolute dewpoint values of 42°F and 59° and temperature range of 64° and 81°, you’re just not being serious. Stop hedging your bets and go all in already. Advance the allowed. The new frontier can be found at the limits set by the “ASHRAE Allowed Thermal Guidelines.” When you can get to humidity rh levels of 20% to 80% and a maximum dewpoint of 62°, along with temperatures between 59° to 90°, you will have figuratively flung open the window of energy-saving opportunities, and quite literally opened the free cooling window
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Cutting Costs vs. Creeping Copper
FIGURE 1. Example of copper creep corrosion on a lead-free circuit board. (Image courtesy of ASHRAE2.)
on almost the entire planet. This will be the genesis of truly net zero (energy and water) data centers. So stop circling the wagons and be a Sooner instead. Separate the streams. And lastly, stop kidding yourself and keep the hot air hot and the cold air cold by keeping the streams separate. It doesn’t matter how you do it, but do it physically not theoretically. Arrows on drawings are just lines on paper. The only way to absolutely guarantee that airstreams won’t mix is to provide a physical demarcation. And when air doesn’t mix, you can bank on your systems’ efficiencies and avoid overdesign and wasteful safety factors. Simply put, you can’t push the envelope unless and until your envelope has edges. So embrace boundaries. A TALE OF TWO STUDIES “It was the best of times, it was the worst of times, it was the age of wisdom, it was the age of foolishness…,” so wrote Charles Dickens in A Tale of Two Cities. And even though he was speaking of prerevolutionary France, the same can be said today about expanded ambient conditions in the data center and the proposed use of 100% OA economizers in the technical space. On the one hand, we are given the expanded thermal guidelines that make it possible to cool with OA even during the warmest times of the year. But then we have another, much less referenced, white paper from ASHRAE that throws a bit of cold water on the whole economizer parade. In 2009, ASHRAE issued guidance on particulate contamination within the data center that seemed to discourage the use of excessive amounts of OA, implying that too much OA could lead to equipment failures. Two common modes of IT equipment failures due to environmental contamination are copper creep corrosion on printed circuit boards and corrosion of silver termination in miniature surface-mounted components (Figures 1 and 2). In an almost teeter-totter fashion, these two seminal papers have been issued and updated: Thermal Guidelines in 2008 and updated in mid-2011, and the Contamination Guidelines in 2009 and late
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2011. But what is even more interesting (and perhaps telling) is the difference in the amount of hype and press the two have received in the HVAC marketplace of ideas. The thermal guidelines have been hawked like a traveling medicine man’s elixir, with no fewer than a dozen related articles in the major trade magazines and numerous conference presentations. Heck, there was even advance hoopla leaked prior to its official unveiling in May of last year. The contamination guidance, on the other hand, was issued in relative quiet. For some of us, if it weren’t for the “help” of filter vendors and manufacturers of certain types of AHU technology pointing it out, it may have been missed altogether. And I’m not slighting the messenger here; these folks have a legitimate claim to a legitimate paper. But it seems like the authors of the paper are treating it like a less substantial treatise. To reinforce this observation, I refer you to an article in the December issue of the ASHRAE Journal wherein the authors (both associated with TC 9.9) tout the increased potential for economizers and then offer a seemingly innocuous yet ominous caveat two pages later: “Moisture may exacerbate corrosion problems in data centers where corrosive gases are present. Different locations around the world have different ambient levels of potentially corrosive pollutants, and the designer must be cognizant of these pollution levels on a site-specific basis. Even when ambient levels are known to be low, the potential still exists for short-term transient conditions of potentially corrosive pollutants of which the designer must be aware. [emphasis added]” I’ve got a challenge for you: try telling the data center operator you’re working with that your design may lead to “short-term transient conditions” and see if you get a Christmas card next year. BETWEEN A ROCK AND SOFT PLACE? So what’s the deal? Is ASHRAE quiet because corrosion is a simple matter that can be handled relatively easily? Or could it be there aren’t enough hard data to back up the perceived threat, so instead of picking a fight they do a soft pedal? Well depending on your OA politics you can probably interpret it either way. The 2011 Contamination Guidelines waffle a bit on easy vs. hard, stating in part, “Data center contamination and its corrosive effects can be identified by well defined and relatively easy means.” Then it counters with, “…direct measurement of gaseous contamination levels is difficult and is not a useful indicator of the suitability of the environment for IT equipment.” Then they go on to offer, “… a low-cost, simple approach to monitoring the air quality in a data center…” using copper and silver foil coupons (Figures 3 and 4). But then they reverse course, restating one of the more controversial statements from the 2009 version. Specifically that, “…for data centers with higher gaseous contamination levels, gas-phase filtration of the inlet air and the air in the data center is highly recommended…” So contamination is easy to identify but difficult to measure directly? However, I can use a simple coupon approach to measure it, but in data centers with higher levels I should still add gaseous filtration, which at best is unfamiliar to most facilities designers and
at worst is an unknown. And you have to ask: Do I carry out the coupon protocol before or after I build my data center and run the systems? And if I need to determine the potential for contamination before I design and build, are there any credible data out there to guide me? LBNL thinks that ASHRAE got it wrong and it’s all anecdotal evidence and conjecture and said as much in their white paper, wherein they reached the following conclusion: “… The white paper recommendation that gaseous contamination should be monitored and that gas phase filtration is necessary for data centers with high contamination levels is not supported…We are concerned that data center owners will choose to eliminate air economizers…since there are implications that contamination could be worse if air economizers are used. This does not appear to be the case in practice or from the information presented… [emphasis added]” CHICKENS, PIGS AND WEASELS A pig and a chicken are walking down the road and the chicken says, “Hey, Pig, I was thinking we should open a restaurant!” The pig replies, “Maybe, but what would we serve?” The Chicken responds, “How about ham and eggs?” The pig thinks for a moment and then says, “No, thanks. I’d be committed, but you’d only be involved!” In a project or a design process there are folks who are like the pig and are totally committed to the project and accountable for its outcome; they have skin in the game. And then there are those who, like the chicken, consult and are informed by the process and its outcomes. Not surprisingly, I think consensus-driven organizations like ASHRAE are very smart chickens. When I’m stumped, I look to folks who are smarter than me and have more realworld experience than I do. And in a case like this, where equipment and operations are on the line, I look to guys who are the pork equivalent in our fable. In short, I look to users for my wayfinding. Now, we all know that there is no such thing as the typical user or client. Each is unique and has differing demand and requirements, so in turn, the answer to the OA question cannot be a simple yes
or no. It all comes down to the weaseliest of weasel words … it depends. So here is this weasel’s advice based on clients I have worked with and their risk aversion. Internet-based service providers (probably yes). The business model for most of the operations on the internet is based on maximized virtuality and server
utilization. Their success is based on speed and uptime like everyone else’s, but their model is unique in that they are light years ahead of the rest of the IT market and their redundancy is in the e-ether, not necessarily the bricks and mortar. In the simplest terms, when they lose a server, they shift the application to another server instantly.
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Cutting Costs vs. Creeping Copper
FIGURE 2. Corrosion of a plated through hole because of wetted ionic dust high in magnesium chloride. (Image courtesy of ASHRAE.)
Intelligence community, 9-1-1, and DoD (probably no). They say that a picture is worth a thousand words, so in your mind’s eye, recall the billowing cloud of dust that surged from Ground Zero when the World Trade Center towers fell. It’s the lethal potential of that menacing debris cloud or an agent released into the atmosphere or smoke billowing from the flames due to an explosion or wildfire that all make a direct OA economizer less tenable for facilities that must remain up and running without interruption. There are options, such as providing systems that can operate with OA during normal operation but have sufficient plant capacity to operate on 100% circulation in an emergency. But there is such a premium associated with protecting all of the additional OA intakes (blast, security, and agent detection) and the redundant cooling systems that usually it just isn’t worth it. These are applications where water-side-economizers and indirect airside economizers make the most sense. Enterprise data centers such as government, banking, and commercial business (why not?) Here is where the real opportunity lies. This is where I would suggest that you start with the OA economizer as a basis and then prove it can’t work. There will be pushback, especially from the old guard, but in most cases I would counter that the evidence is sketchy that the typical data center operator has to fear OA. I base part of this on the fact that the risk factors in these segments do not approach those in the intelligence community. Banks will say they can’t do it, but banks have done it (see Deutsche Bank). And also because LBNL developed a study using data collected from data centers being operated by Digital Realty Trust, NetApp, IRS, Cisco, and others, concluded that data centers utilizing OA economizers have no more corrosion issues than traditional data centers . IN CONCLUSION Let’s not forget the data center design absolutes: recognize the recommended; advance the allowed; and separate the streams. With that said, ASHRAE has issued thermal and corrosion guidelines that appear to be counter to each other. But their dissemination
FIGURE 3. Unexposed corrosion classification coupon containing copper and silver metal strips. (Image courtesy of LBNL.)
For this reason and others, they can afford to lose servers without affecting their product delivery. That doesn’t mean they can lose an entire data center, but it does mean that they manage risk differently. In turn an OA economizer is not a push for these folks, which is evident in all the press you read about the Microsofts, eBays, and Googles of the world.
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FIGURE 4. Typical coupon mounting. Example shown is just prior to cooling air entering IT equipment.7
in the marketplace and further analysis by others in the industry help us to see that the dusty dog with zinc whiskers has a bark that is much worse than its bite. OA economizers have immense potential for saving energy, but like any technology, there is risk that must be weighed against the reward. And while indirect OA economizers and waterside economizers can in many cases approach (or even beat) direct OA economizers performance-wise, you just can’t beat the simplicity of fresh air when applied in its purest form. I hope this article provides enough information and references so that you can see beyond your previous horizon. And at the risk of using one too many Chicago references, I will quote Ferris Bueller who said, “Life changes pretty fast. If you don’t stop and look around once in a while, you could miss it.” Same goes for design. Danke Schoen. ES
Data Center Classes and Usage Guidance.” Developed by ASHRAE Technical Committee 9.9. , 2011. 2. ASHRAE. “Gaseous and Particulate Contamination Guidelines for Data Centers.” Developed by ASHRAE Technical Committee 9.9. 2009. 3. Steinbrecher, R. and R. Schmidt, “Data Center Environments - ASHRAE’s Evolving Thermal Guidelines.” ASHRAE Journal. 53(12):42-49, 2011. 4. Han, Shehabi, Coles, Tschudi, Gadgil, and Stein. “Should Data Center Owners be Afraid of Air-side Economizer Use? – A Review of ASHRAE TC 9.9 White Paper titled Gaseous and Particulate Contamination Guidelines for Data Centers.” LBNL. 2009. 5. Dunnavant, K. “Indirect Air-Side Economizer Cycle - Data Center Heat Rejection.” ASHRAE Journal. 53(03):44-54, 2011.. 6. http://www.banking-on-green.com/en/content/news_3604.html 7. Han, Price, Coles, Tschudi, and Gadgil. “Air Corrosivity in U.S. Outdoor-Air-Cooled Data Centers is Similar to That in Conventional Data Centers.” LBNL. 2011.
Dickens is a mission critical specialist and project manager at Jacob Global Buildings NA (St. Louis). Reach him at kevin.dickens@ jacobs.com.
CITED WORKS 1. ASHRAE.“2011 Thermal Guidelines for Data Processing Environments – Expanded
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Follow one firm’s path from committing to BIM to climbing a learning curve in using it to serve clients, and even on to taking an unusual step to fill what it sees as a need in the market. BY DWAYNE MILLER
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n 2006, prior to the industry downturn, JBA looked at emerging technologies as a way to strengthen its base and prepare for the future. In Q4 of 2006, JBA leaders made a conscious decision to embrace BIM technology and commit to innovate the BIM design platform, particularly for the active building systems. JBA made an immediate investment in BIM software via Autodesk Revit and began training while launching an internal BIM alpha team to drive implementation across the organization. The commitment for adoption and intentional advancement of JBA’s BIM expertise is rooted in the belief that the technology is one of the most significant developments for the current generation of building industry professionals. The initial adoption was challenging and executed with passion, not because of where the technology is today, but rather in the long-term view of the advancements that will come to life in the next five to ten years. JBA recognized the significant paradigm shift associated with migration from 2-D CAD delivery, which utilizes graphic symbols to represent the built environment, to BIM methodologies that leverage a 3-D model populated with intelligent objects. The shift is very significant, since BIM technology has the potential for positive progress for all phases and all stakeholders in the building lifecycle. The forward movement for BIM technology started with the architecture and engineering phase of building development and has rapidly migrated to the construction and operations phases. Although Revit for active building systems typically focuses on mechanical, electrical, and plumbing (MEP) disciplines, JBA made the commitment to launch the technology across all service offerings, including telecommunications, audiovisual, security/surveillance,
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acoustics, fire protection, and life safety systems. The MEP adoption is a challenge due to limited availability of quality content (intelligent objects) for the various equipment items and components that make up MEP systems. The content available with the Revit software, although growing with each release, is still very limited. Content proved even more challenging for the other active building systems included in JBA’s primary service offerings, as it is virtually nonexistent. REAL-WORLD CHALLENGES The BIM content challenge became glaringly obvious in early 2007 when JBA undertook its first heavy model for an enterprise data center serving a 15-million-sq-ft development. The data center was located at the base of a 3,200-room guest tower directly below the last level of guest rooms. It was clear the installation would be comparable to building a Swiss watch, with tight floor-to-floor height, convergence of tower infrastructure that occurs below the last level of guest rooms, and the active infrastructure that required driving a 300-cabinet data center deploying blade servers. As part of the data center planning effort, JBA advised the owner that to ensure the infrastructure is coordinated and physically fits within the space, a BIM model needed to be developed. At the time, no one else on the project was working with BIM. As a result, JBA developed the model, including the pertinent structural and architectural elements to facilitate active systems modeling. The data center space power, HVAC, fire system, security, telecommunications, cabinets, racks, etc., were all incorporated in the model with content that was created in-house. The end result was a model that was invaluable in clarifying the complexity of the space.
Clean room projects just got a lot easier. After completing this model, JBA embarked on several BIM projects, including a historical theater refurbishment in New Orleans where it further pushed and developed its BIM capabilities. A key lesson learned was creating clarity around expectations and a level of development required for deliverables. There are substantial differences in development of a model for static/passive infrastructure that makes up the architectural and structural models as compared to MEP and other active building systems. The active building systems are end-to-end with complex equipment that has countless options that impact size and performance. Additionally, the sheer number of intelligent objects that can be modeled and the level of intelligence of the objects all impact the time for layering the active infrastructure into the base model. LEARNING CURVES AND GROWING PAINS One of the challenges was learning what can be done using BIM and what should be done in the context of capabilities of the BIM software. Some of the initial BIM projects ran into huge cost overruns as JBA learned the software, and in some cases, the engineers and designers were overzealous in pushing the technology to an extreme with no added value for the deliverables.
The saviing gs associiatted d wiith improved design and cons structtion mak kes a compelling argument for adoption of BIM technology. Once the model is leveraged to optimize maintenance and ultimately building performance, recurring savings for a 30- to 50-yr building life will be realized and the full value of BIM will be much more obvious. Another of the lessons learned was to ensure clarity of expectations and mutual agreement with the client regarding the level of development for the model. Cost controls were significantly improved by focusing on client education regarding value, effort, and cost associated with driving the level of detail beyond what was necessary, based on anticipated model leverage beyond design. At the outset, JBA was clear that adoption of BIM and developing fluency would require substantial investment in hardware, software, training, and inherent job cost overruns to ensure proficiency in BIM delivery. JBA committed to invest in BIM since it believes the technology has potential for substantial gains in efficiency for the design phase and the entire building life cycle, particularly as the construction and building operations phases leverage the technology further. The focus for the technology to date has been primarily around clash detection, collision avoidance, and coordination during the design and construction phases of projects. Depending on the proj-
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JBA Consulting Engineers Embraces Technology To Power Growth makes a compelling argument for adoption of BIM technology. Once the model is leveraged to optimize maintenance and ultimately building performance, recurring savings for a 30- to 50-yr building life will be realized and the full value of BIM will be much more obvious. MOVING FORWARD One of the essential stages in the evolution of BIM is the progression of BIM content for the design and construction phases. To reach the goal of fully leveraging the BIM model for optimal building operations, the building product manufacturers’ content has to proliferate. Manufacturers need to provide quality content that is accurate, available in a low-burden file size, and loaded with relevant intelligence and context that meets the needs of designers/engineers, contractors, and, ultimately, endusFIGURE 1. Site view of the future Twin Arrows Casino and Resort near Flagstaff, AZ. ers for building operations. One of the major paradigm shifts is manufacturer engagement in engineering workflow and opportunities for manufacturers to have their catalog of information in the form of BIM content, inserted directly into the engineering deliverables during the construction documentation phase. In legacy CAD delivery, the typical approach was to create graphic symbols to represent manufacturers’ equipment, fixtures, and products for the construction drawings, with limited use of specific manufacturer information as part of the deliverables. Typically, design layouts are based on a specific manufacturer to serve as the design basis, and all manufacturers included in the specifications are required to work within the allocated space. In the future, we anticipate a similar approach, but the design basis will be specific to manufacturers’ BIM content. If the contractor selects a different manufacturer than the one utilized for the design basis, they will be required to FIGURE 2. BIM software provides a fly-through of the future Twin Arrows Casino and demonstrate that the manufacturer they intend to use comResort. plies with the design and physical space criteria via substitution of their BIM content into the model. Standardization of content remains a key hurdle for leveraging the BIM model for optimal facility operations over the building life cycle. Without standardized parameters, there are significant challenges in deploying third-party software to effectively mine the model for required information because the data is not in a consistent location or a standardized format. Lack of standardization requires performance of a unique mapping process on a model-by-model basis, which is an extremely inefficient process. Lack of standardized content will inhibit broad based adoption of BIM models for facility maintenance and operational optimization. Organizations such BuildingSmart Alliance, NIBS, BICSI, ASHRAE, NEMA, and several others are working toward standards development, which is a monumental task. JBA’s experience in BIM content development driven by necessity highlights that in order for the technology to really FIGURE 3. A peek inside the future kitchen of the Twin Arrows Casino and Resort advance for active system designs, quality content needed using BIM. to be readily available and accessible to the active systems design community. While manufacturers are the obvious experts for ect size, these savings typically occur over a 2- to 5-yr timeframe. their specific products, based on the poor quality of BIM content curThe savings associated with improved design and construction
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rently provided by the manufacturers, it is clear that most lack the contextual knowledge to develop content that is effective, efficient, relevant, and complementary for engineering workflow. JBA saw this challenge as an opportunity and decided to start a separate company, BIMAdvent, focused on content development for manufacturers, software, and applications to optimize engineering workflow. Its vision is to be a leading provider of innovative resources for the intelligent built environment, while its mission is to optimize the building life cycle. BIMAdvent closely aligns with JBA, and together they help each other live out our shared core values of innovation and expertise. In order for BIM technology to proliferate, BIM workflow needs to engage a broader audience including engineers, contractors, manufacturers, and endusers without requiring all to become experts in complex BIM software. The tools and resources that enable this engagement must be intuitive for the users and developed with context for legacy processes and workflow. A broad user base of engineers, contractors, manufacturers, and owner/operators are not going to willingly adopt an expensive new process that is laborious with a costly learning curve that is steep and long for the tools involved. We believe they will engage in minor shifts if the tools provided align and enable the users to execute their work in a similar manner. Manufacturers need their equipment and product data converted and captured in BIM content with minimal investment. Collaboration between JBA and BIMAdvent enables beta testing and streamlining of content and applications that are tested in a real-world environment prior to being released to a larger user base. Quality content that is readily available to the specifying community, combined with the tools and resources that work in the context of legacy workflow for the professionals engaged in the various phases of the building life cycle, are key drivers to enable continued evolution of BIM. It is our belief that in order for JBA to live its purpose of improving and protecting the human environment, it must live its core value of innovation by being aggressive drivers and thought leaders in BIM technology. The end goal is proliferation of BIM technology throughout the entire building life cycle to facilitate a less costly, more efficient, better managed intelligent built environment that serves as a legacy for this generation and a solid foundation for improvement by future generations. It is the collective belief of JBA and BIMAdvent that they have an obligation to live out the vision and purpose of both companies to facilitate a better future. ES
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Miller is CEO of JBA Consulting Engineers. With more than 23 years in the industry, he is responsible for the strategic development and growth of both the engineering areas of practice and business development for the firm. Miller is a C-2 License Master Electrician in Nevada, a Certified Power Quality Professional and a Registered Communications Distribution Designer. He is also an active member of Building Industry Consulting Services International and the National Fire Protection Association Building Services. Prior to joining JBA Consulting Engineers, Miller served with the U.S. Air Force as an engineering officer for a worldwide mobile design and build squadron. He received his Bachelor of Science in Electrical Engineering from Virginia Military Institute. Input 103 at www.esmagazine.com/instantproductinfo
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The people in the industry don’t necessarily make a loud argument for it, but the results often do. How to get this ball rolling, sell it, and see it through from design to occupancy? Look ahead by looking below. BY HOWARD MCKEW, P.E., C.P.E.
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f you follow my “Tomorrow’s Environment” columns, you will be familiar with my quest to elevate testing, adjusting, and balancing (TAB) to third-party TAB consulting to function in parallel with third-party commissioning. To me, the issue is an open and shut case, a no-brainer, but the thirdparty TAB concept is none of these, which baffles me because most of the professionals I know in the design and construction business don’t have much confidence in the traditional TAB company working as a subcontractor to the HVAC contractor. While each of the three TAB organizations are committed to the process of being independent, I wouldn’t be writing this article if clients were satisfied with the results.
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Experience has shown me that many owners don’t have confidence in final TAB reports and, more importantly, don’t understand how TAB should be performed. As a rule, design engineers (DE) specify that the TAB company should follow industry standards, and, more often than not, the consultants then allow the TAB process to be compromised during construction. Until DEs actually participate in hands-on TAB work, they are not going to enforce the standards, because they really don’t understand the TAB process. Most general contractors and construction managers claim to understand the TAB process but prefer to leave the task to their HVAC subcontractor and let it be his problem. TAB is the process in which each HVAC system is tuned up; it’s
analogous to a tuned up automobile coming out of a dealership, ensuring the buyer that the miles-per-gallon energy performance posted on the window sticker will be met. Unfortunately, the building industry doesn’t appreciate this analogy and sees TAB only as a task that needs to be done (good or bad) as part of project closeout. At the same time, I don’t believe anyone in the building industry would accept their new car leaving the showroom sputtering and backfiring or not tuned up to achieve the miles-per-gallon as advertised. The solution to this is that TAB services need to be an extension of consulting engineering service, following a similar format as third-party commissioning consultants. ESTABLISHING THIRD-PARTY TAB CONSULTING SERVICES To begin my TAB thesis, let’s compare some of the job responsibilities and tasks of DE consultants and third-party commissioning agent/consultants (CxC) beginning with (Figure 1):
“how-to” books all approach HVAC systems the same way a consultant would approach their job responsibilities: • Complete a design review, if not multiple design reviews. This is also a LEED® certification requirement. TAB books also reference a need for a design review with the TABB manual being the most specific as to how to approach a TAB review. • DE consultants and some CxCs produce system flow diagrams to show that the overall system, automatic control components, etc., follow along with the TABB preliminary TAB procedures. The TAB consultant is required to complete system flow diagrams. • DE consultants will have completed an air balance assessment per system, per zone, per floor, and/or per building to ensure the building does not operate at a negative pressure. Inventorying airquantity documentation is most obvious by consulting engineers responsible for
pharmaceutical projects, with their floor plans showing space pressure (+/ =) and direction-of-flow arrows going from one room to an adjacent room. Health-care consulting engineers will do something similar but often don’t clearly document this data on a contract drawing. TAB consultants complete this task as part of their design review “for TAB-ability.” • CxCs use a pending issue (PI) log and a corrective action (CA) log as part of their process. The TAB consultant also has his own PI and CA logs to track questions, observations, and deficiencies. • Both DE consultants and CxCs make field visits and report back using a standard field visit report document. Following similar procedures, TAB consultants should be completing field visit reports, too, when completing their required system-by-system pre-TAB inspections. • As part of each report, DE consultants and CxCs usually use some form of observation checklist. Each TAB organi-
• DE and CxCs don’t furnish and/or install equipment. Neither do TAB consultants. • DE and CxCs don’t furnish and/or install HVAC systems. Neither do TAB consultants. • Both services are directly connected to system performance and energy conservation. TAB consultants play an integral role in delivering HVAC systems that meet the design intent and need to be operating as efficient as possible when the balancing is completed. I have all three TAB organization air and water balance HVAC systems manuals, beginning with National Environmental Balancing Bureau’s NEBB Procedural Standards for Testing, Adjusting, and Balancing of Environmental Systems, Version 7, which is unfortunately not as thorough as the older Version 2 book. The Associated Air Balance Council (AABC) has its National Standards for Total System Balancing, which I’d categorize as pretty good, but not great. The third organization is the Testing, Adjusting, and Balancing Bureau (TABB), which has endorsed the SMACNA TAB Procedural Guide, First Edition, 2003. In my opinion, is the best of the three TAB organization instruction manuals, and, interestingly, this manual appears to be the same NEBB Version 2 manual I used back in 1993. These Input 137 at www.esmagazine.com/instantproductinfo
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Third-Party TAB Consulting In Sync With Third-Party Commissioning
FIGURE 1. Parallel track of commissioning and TAB process flow diagram.
TAB TA B is the pro roce cess ss in wh whic ich h ea each ch HVAC HV AC sys yste tem m is tun uned ed up; it’ t’s s a al an a og ogou ous s to a tun uned ed up auto au tomo mobi bile le com omin ing g ou outt of a dealership p, ensuring g th he buy yer that th at the mil iles es-per per-g -gal allo lon n en ener ergy gy p rformance po pe p st ted d on th the wind wi ndow nd ow sti tick cker ck er wil illl be met et.. Unffortun t attely, ly, the build ildiing g indu in dust du stry ry y doe oesn sn’t t app ppre reci ciat ate e th this is anal an alog og gy an and d se sees es it on onlly ly as a ta task k that th at nee eeds ds to o be done (g (good or bad) ba d)) as pa p rt of pr proj ojec ectt cl clos oseo eout ut. zation has its own standard observation checklists, with AABC having probably the best selection of checklists for equipment inspection, as well as their system distribution checklist (airside and waterside). Each system should have a completed field report by the TAB consultant as part of the system-readiness portion of preliminary TAB procedures, and each report should include the associated completed checklist(s). SELLING THIRD-PARTY TAB SERVICES I have been selling third-party TAB to clients for several years now with great project satisfaction from clients and contractors.
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Even the TAB firms I’ve hired under this concept appreciate the approach, because they are allowed to do the job the way it should be done. It is time to officially recognize this third-party consulting service to the building industry with the DE or CxC partnering with pre-qualified TAB firms to begin the TAB process in the design phase with an enhanced TAB process. How do you begin this valuable and much-needed business opportunity? Approach it like a consultant and not like a contractor. I know from my years working for a design-build firm and a construction management company that while contractors focus their business initiatives on completing the job on time and within budget, engineering firms bring a consulting business approach to the TAB services that leads building owners to believe that a thirdparty TAB firm will deliver a better product. This doesn’t disqualify TAB firms, mechanical contractors, and construction managers from setting up their own third-party consulting firms. In fact, I encourage them to do this just as long as it is a separate consulting firm. Remember, perception is reality, and to break the mold when it comes to TAB services, being a third-party party consultant, just like a third-party commissioning firm, can eliminate many of the initial arguments when selling this service. DESIGN PHASE My vision of a third-party TAB approach mirrors my commissioning services and providing a consistent, consulting process beginning in the design phase with the following activities: • Solicit proposals from prequalified TAB firms to be a TAB partner/sub-consultant in the design phase. • Just as the Cx firms, kick off meeting with the design team to outline the TAB services.
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• Design review for “TAB-ability” just as Cx firm review for commission-ability with all observations/questions documented in the TAB PI log requiring responses from the design team. • Just as the Cx firm embeds the Cx plan into the Cx specification, write the TAB plan and embed it into the TAB. This approach is where a proven methodology, within the TAB business process, can ensure a proactive TAB participation that will continue on into the start of the construction phase, as opposed to the more traditional TAB firm arriving on site later in the construction phase. It is important to note that while TABB guidelines (and to a lesser degree, AABC and NEBB) suggest early participation in the construction phase, it is really imperative that the TAB process start in the design phase and follow the steps noted above. Just like commissioning should start in the design phase, so should TAB, and the only way to achieve this is to have a third-party TAB consultant under contract for those design-phase services. This has been the initial missing link in past TAB projects that have resulted in less than successful HVAC projects.
THE CONSTRUCTION PHASE “Preparatory work includes the planning and scheduling of all TAB procedures, collecting the necessary data, reviewing the data collected, studying the systems to be balanced, making schematic system layouts, recording the published data on the test reports forms, and finally, making preliminary field checks of the HVAC equipment and systems.” This statement from the “SMACNA TAB Procedural Guide” emphasizes the importance of beginning the TAB initiative at the start of the shop-drawing phase of the project. For the majority of past TAB projects, this submittal requirement is the second missing link to a successful HVAC project and must change if building systems are going to be efficiently tuned up prior to commissioning. My recommended submittal process is two-fold (Sidebar): Submittal 1 • Firm certification (TABB, AABC, or NEBB), resume of TAB personnel assigned to the project including supervisor qualifications and organization, quality assurance program certificates • Draft table of contents for final report and sample executive summary that will
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Third-Party TAB Consulting In Sync With Third-Party Commissioning TAB Submittals SUBMITTAL 1: • Firm certification (TABB, AABC, or NEBB) • Resume of TAB personnel assigned to the project • Quality assurance process • Draft table of contents for final report • Sample executive summary that will be integral to the final report • TAB procedures documents including: o Associated system readiness checklists for air systems, water systems, and ATC verification o Specialty room TAB procedures o System readiness checklists • List of systems to be balanced • Sample TAB-ability design checklists • Sample field report • Sample corrective action log SUBMITTAL 2: • Design review summary • Completed design review of each system • Pending issue log documenting review comments with all observations/questions from design review • Review equipment schedules relative to capacity • Floor-by-floor inventory overall floor plan air balance at maximum supply air, return air, and exhaust air and at minimum supply, return, and exhaust air totals. • Floor-by-floor inventory overall water balance at maximum and minimum flows. • Special area/system air balance for space pressure with directof-flow arrows • Individual system flow diagrams with pertinent “estimated design data” (static pressure, pump head, velocities, cfm, gpm, etc.)
be integral to the final report • TAB procedures documents, including associated system readiness checklists for air systems, water systems, and ATC verification, as well as specialty room TAB procedures and associated system readiness checklists and also duct pressure test TAB procedures for spot-checking with its associated checklist • List of systems to be balanced along with samples of associated electronic documents to be used, such as: • Contract drawing and specification review checklists for TABability. • Field observation checklists for equipment and distribution. • Field report format continued use of the PI log and the introduction of the CA log. While the design team, owner, and contractor review this initial submittal, the TAB sub-consultant completes its contract document review and develops what will eventually become the final TAB report, which includes: Submittal 2 • Review each system sheet metal layout and piping layout relative to access, ability to balance each system, and other review com-
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ments, with all observations/questions included in the PI log needing response from the design team and/or the contractor. • Review equipment schedules relative to capacity (adequate static pressure, excessive pump head, etc.) and equipment location (e.g., excessive discharge loss, potential stratification, and access to devices to balance the system(s). • Inventory overall floor plan air balance at maximum supply air, return air, and exhaust air and at minimum supply, return, and exhaust air totals. • Area space pressure calculations and cfm per floor plan with documentation of specific locations where duct velocity, static pressure, and cfm, as well as gpm and system pressure, will be taken at time of balancing. • Development of system flow diagrams with pertinent “estimated design data” (static pressure, pump head, velocities, cfm, gpm, etc.) indicated on the applicable flow diagram. For “open water system,” also identifying net positive suction head (NPSH) requirement per pump shop drawing submittal. How important are these system flow diagrams with pertinent design data? Analogous to traveling from coast to coast in your car, you wouldn’t do it without a road map, so why would a TAB professional show up to begin air and water balancing without documenting all the data in his final report-TAB book in advance to know the systems, to know what to expect, and to be prepared to know what is not per the design intent? The two-phase submittal requirements are an amplification of the preliminary TAB procedures found in Chapter 2 of the SMACNA TAB Procedural Guide with enhancements included in the third-party TAB specification. AABC and NEBB manuals don’t get into enough detail on preliminary process as the TABB manual but instead focus on how the work will be completed. Next comes the TAB sub-consultant’s participation in the contractor’s field coordination drawing phase, signing off on these 3-D BIM documents. The TAB sub-consultant should participate in specific commissioning meetings, along with the more traditional trade contractor meetings, to keep abreast of construction activities and to contribute input regarding the project schedule and also regarding the Cx test plan and schedule document. A third weak link in the traditional TAB process is the field visiting activities associated with system readiness leading up to the final balancing. The TAB plan/specification will require a field visit report per system and include completed Pre-TAB checklists for each piece of equipment and associated distribution inspection along with photographs to further document the installation. The TAB sub-consultant will transform PI log, documenting issues of concern not identified in the TAB-ability design review into a CA log that will be used to document deficiencies that must be corrected prior to balancing of specific systems. It is important to note that just like Cx field visit, reporting should be completed electronically. All TAB documentation can be done using an iPad or tablet computer including “design-toactual” data input on the project-required system flow diagrams that were produced back in the submittal phase of the project. Once the field visits are completed, the system readiness moves to air and water balancing. Here is where the TAB sub-consultant’s technicians will be on site, armed with all the documentation and knowledge,
ready to implement the testing, adjusting, and balancing per the TAB specification. These TAB activities lead directly into the commissioning functional performance test of each system, where the system shall be demonstrated to the CxC and the owner’s facility personnel. THE FINAL REPORT Having already started the final TAB report in the submittal phase of construction, the third-party TAB sub-consultant will have been populating this report as the project progressed. Each system will have had its own sub-folder where the design review document, associated field visit report, pre-TAB checklists, and system flow diagrams are kept and updated as the job progressed. In addition, the associated fan curve or pump curve will have been added and the design-to-actual data included at the time of balancing. Another section of the report will be where the PI log and CI log resolutions are kept. The floor plans with sheet metal and pipe distribution shown and the TAB technician’s marked up of design-to-actual data (static pressure, duct traverses, etc.) will have been inserted into the subfolder. An important section in the final report, and one that most consulting firms are familiar with, is the executive summary right at the front of the report where those interested in the system tune-up performance can get a quick and to-the-point assessment of the entire air and water balancing procedure. This report will also include design intent document, the actual operating conditions, things to consider in the near future, when to re-balance the system, and recommendations for special needs such as healthcare air balance compliance.
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SUMMARY Air and water balancing is not just taking readings and confirming the data shown on the contract drawings have been met. To quote Mr. W. David Bevirt, P.E., from the National Environmental Balancing Bureau’s Environmental (NEBB) manual, Environmental Systems Technology, “Testing, adjusting, and balancing personnel no longer can be just instrument readers, they must understand fully how to perform their work.” Third-party TAB consulting services are as important and needed as third-party commissioning services, and the time has come for the building industry; building owners and operators; organizations such as the USGBC, ASHRAE, APPA, ISPE, and ASHE; and others to mandate these services to be facilitated by consultants who are proficient in HVAC design and construction, air and water balancing, commissioning, and construction management. They need to also be proficient in project management, report writing, and communication. Once a third-party TAB consultant is hired, it is now time to allow those TAB professionals trained and experienced in testing, adjusting, and balancing to do their jobs, beginning at the start of the design phase following their TAB organization guidelines. ES You can reach McKew at
[email protected] for business development planning advice and D-B/IPD facilitator services. For more online publications, visit www.buildingsmartsoftware.com.
Come visit us at booth #2820! Input 70 at www.esmagazine.com/instantproductinfo
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The questions can pile up quickly when it’s time to specify a motor to pair with a variable drive. The information available sometimes leaves one wondering just as much about the information that is unavailable. Will a decision hold up not only in the actual application but also possibly in court? Wade into compatibility, spec terms, partial loads, and more as we try to get this motor running. BY STEVEN G. LIESCHEIDT, P.E., CCS, CCPR
S
hould you specify an “inverter duty,” “inverter ready,” “inverter rated,” or a “VFD compatible” motor for your fans and pumps in HVAC applications? Is there a difference in these terms? Don’t answer too quickly without doing a little research. Now, without taking time to research any industry definitions of these terms, go look at your company fan, pump, and motor specifications and see if there is any clarification on specifically what type of motor would be acceptable to you if you were reviewing a submittal for a motor for a fan or pump on a VFD. Would you need a specific type of insulation? Would you need a premium efficiency motor, and, if so, what level of efficiency would make the motor acceptable for a VFD drive, or does motor efficiency matter when a VFD is used? Would either an ODP or TEFC motor be acceptable with a VFD? Can you use a brand “B” motor with a brand “M” VFD? How would you enforce this compatibility based on your specification criteria? To make it even more interesting, would you be able to defend your decisions based on your specification and the definition of whatever term your specifications use in a discussion with an attor-
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ney in a construction mediation or deposition for a lawsuit where a supplier or contractor provided a motor you claimed didn’t comply with your design intent? What if the motor failed prematurely? What would you consider a premature failure of a motor, and do you specify the motor life in your contract documents, when VFDs are used? Does the motor manufacturer give a warranty for any type of motor used with a VFD, and, if so, under what “limited” warranty conditions? If you subscribe to one of the “master” specification products does it cover motor and VFD drive compatibility issues in a manner that is appropriate and defendable? Do the companies that write these master specifications clearly define the terms or provide industry standard references? If not, you may want to consider how you would be able to review a submittal from a motor and drive manufacturer that uses different terms other than what your specifications use. If your specifications are not clear in terms, then you have increased the risk of your client not getting what they thought they were going to get when you discussed this issue in a designphase meeting prior to writing the specifications. It might be good to take some time at the AHR Expo in Chicago
FIGURE 1. Recommended motor protection. (Figure courtesy of Cerus Industrial.)
in January to stop by the motor and drive manufacturers’ booths to discuss this topic with them. It may be like asking 10 engineers their opinion: you could get 10 different opinions on how to best write a spec that will ensure a motor is compatible with a VFD drive and what the correct terms and definitions are. Be sure to discuss warranty issues and be sure to not get caught up in marketing hype or proprietary product criteria if your desire is to have a truly competitive spec. Of course, be cautious of marketing hype at the booths also. Your goal is to get the engineering truth, recognizing that there are multiple ways to accomplish the same goal. MARKETING RUN AMOK It is enough to make a mechanical engineer’s head spin out of control when trying to keep up with the changing technology of motors and VFDs and the compatibility of the two when specified for HVAC equipment such as fans and pumps. One quote from an internet blog states, “Be careful. The marketing people are running amok on these terms.” I have often warned manufacturers’ marketing people to say whatever they want to say to professional engineers as long as it can be defended in court and they are willing to put it in writing with their name on it. Amazing how this warning will slow down nonengineering, non-technical marketing people. Engineers, likewise, need to have clear specifications that are not only defendable but that also allow for appropriate competitive bidding of products that are truly equal in performance to meet the specified functional criteria. Where is the integrity of the motor and VFD industry manufacturers if they can’t agree on proper use of terms for specification
purposes? Is this a “buyer beware” concern for facility owners? How much fingerpointing will occur if there is such confusion on how to specify motors that can work with a VFD/inverter drive? Is NEMA the entity that should step up and provide better clarity and a specification and motor/VFD design selection guide matrix? Should the AMCA be involved in clarifying motor applications for fans under varying speed conditions, or do the fan manufacturers not concern themselves about how long a motor will last if they don’t build the motor and simply provide what is specified? Maybe ASHRAE should get together with CSI in a collaborative effort to educate manufacturers, suppliers, contractors, and engineers about proper specification writing. Manufacturers’ guide specs with selective verbiage can make the spec a proprietary specification. Engineers need to clarify the design intent when using manufacturers’ guide specs. Basis-of-design products do not intend to instruct one manufacturer to build a product the same way another one does, since in general a consulting engineer is not a product engineer taking the liability for a product design. THE FOUR C’S OF CONTRACT DOCUMENTS Engineers are at risk when they use marketing terms in motor and VFD specifications that are not clearly defined by industry standards or within the contract documents. Per CSI (www.csinet.com) contract documents should adhere to the four Cs: clear, concise, complete, and correct. Without clear, concise, complete, and correct contract documents, the bids will not be competitive, and the enduser will likely not be getting appropriate products if there is confusion in the process. There are so many options, so many considerations, so many
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Motors For Use With VFDs
ways to improperly specify motors and drives that can not only cause incompatibility issues but that may also cause confusion for bidders trying to determine if the spec can be trusted. VFD, ASD, VSD — no matter what you call them, the intent is generally the same: to vary a motor speed by varying the frequency of the voltage seen by the motor. Varying the motor speed serves the purpose of varying the capacity of the piece of equipment for either energy or flow control to satisfy some design criteria. But this is a case where design intent can have a huge impact on interpretation if more definition is not provided in a set of contract document specifications. MOTOR LIFE One challenge for the engineer is to understand just how low the motor speed needs to go. This requires a good understanding of the part-load operating condition of the application. How much “engineering” is really done when it comes to analyzing a building fan or pump application to identify how much time a motor will be at various frequencies and the impact of this on the life of the motor? Also, is there a way to perform a life cycle cost analysis on this? If a system will be at very low part-load conditions where the motor is running hotter longer, is it worth spending more money on a better motor than when a system is very rarely at low part-load conditions? Also, is the VFD being used as a way to balance a system in lieu of properly selecting a fan or pump and as an alternate less expensive means of capacity control?
Change Chan g s in mot ge otor or tor orqu q e, qu harm ha rmon rm onic on ics ic s, vol olta tage ta g spi ge p ke kes s ... ca can n thes th ese e issu issues es be tot totall tall lly y pr prev even entted ted with ith the proper specif ifiicati tions for moto mo tors rs and VFD FDs? s? How are the p op pr per spe p cifications enforced thro th roug ro ugh ug h th the e bi bidd ddin dd ing in g an and d su subm bmit bm itta it tall ta proc pr oces oc ess es s to ens nsur ure ur e th the e pr prod oduc od ucts uc ts actu ac tual tu ally al ly y pro rovi vide vi ded de d an and d in inst stal st alle al led le d ar are e inde in deed de ed com ompa pati pa tibl ti ble? bl e? Just how long is a motor expected to last when used with a VFD? One way to look at this issue is noted in a quote overheard several years ago, “Any motor will work with a VFD drive, but some will last longer than others.” One brave VFD manufacturer has come forward to admit that VFDs can adversely affect motors and suggests the use of protection devices, based on a few variables. These devices, known as load reactors and output filters (also dv/dt or dual element filters), protect motor insulation from damage due to the voltage spikes and harmonics caused by the switching of transistors on the output side of VFDs. These spikes are of very high frequency and voltage compared to the power frequency seen by the motor; they can break down the motor winding insulation, and the harmonics can cause heating of the windings and motor bearings. As pulse-width modulation (PWM) has become the standard
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technique of variance in VFDs and transistors are used in that technique, every VFD manufacturer must choose how to address the issue of voltage spikes. Most ignore it; however, some have partnered with manufacturers of reactors and filters to properly protect motors based on two factors, voltage and distance. Voltage, of course, refers to the input line voltage of the motor, while distance is measured between the VFD and the motor. Simply put, the higher the voltage (with corresponding higher voltage spikes) and longer the distance, the more possible damage to the motor. Figure 1 offers suggestions about which type of protection to be used based on those factors. These suggestions come from an international leader in reactor manufacturing and have been proven over several years to be accurate (as opposed to a marketing ploy to sell more devices). Do any specifications really tell the supplier how long the motor for a fan or pump is supposed to last when used with a VFD drive? What about other solutions to the effects of VFDs on motor life, such as shaft grounding kits? Do the manufacturers of grounding kits, reactors, and filters offer warranties on the motors their products protect? Is getting past the one-year product warranty acceptable to the engineer? Does every motor manufacturer have a warranty on the life of a motor used with a VFD? Is this acceptable to the facility owner maintenance manager? Before you answer these questions, give some thought to how an expected motor life could be determined. Is it a function of the operating conditions and installation? Are the full- and part-load operating conditions accurately calculated by an engineer such that it could even be determined how many hours a fan or pump motor would be run at 100%, 80%, 50%, 20%, or as low as even 10% of operating speed? If this calculation is not done, how is a motor selected? It is a common disclaimer that the motor runs hotter at lower speeds, which affects the winding insulation life, so wouldn’t it make sense that some sort of statistical data should be provided by the motor manufacturers to help understand how long their specific motor would last under varying speed conditions? Depending on the size and importance of the motor and the process it supports, should external forced draft cooling of the motor be considered? SPECIFICATION CONSIDERATIONS There is a concern that VFDs can cause standard motors to malfunction and fail for several reasons. Changes in motor torque may not match the load requirements as the motor speed varies. The cooling airflow around the motor will be reduced as the motor speed is reduced, causing the motor to run hotter. Harmonics from the controller may overheat the motor. Voltage spikes generated by the output section of the variable-frequency controller may cause the motor insulation to fail. Can these issues be totally prevented with the proper specifications for motors and VFDs? How are the specifications enforced through the bidding and submittal process to ensure the products actually provided and installed are indeed compatible? Most motor manufacturers have motors designed to tolerate the effects of VFDs on motors. The terms used for these motors are not necessarily the same so a specification needs to essentially be written in a “Performance” specification method or a “Reference Standard” method instead of a “Descriptive” specification method. Care must
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Motors For Use With VFDs
be taken not to write a “Closed Proprietary” specification, based on only one manufacturer’s product (unless that is what the facility owner wants). Note: if you are not familiar with these specification terms, it is recommended that you consider joining CSI and becoming a CDT/CCS. Look at www.csinet.org for more information. Most low-voltage, general-purpose motors are suitable for operation with variable-frequency controllers for typical HVAC applications, such as pumps and fans, which present the motors with variable torque loads that reduce as speed is lowered. Many energy- and premium-efficient motors have windings with an insulation system that is specifically designed to withstand the voltage spikes from PWM drives as defined by NEMA MG-1. These motors are frequently called inverter-ready. For constant torque loads with a constant torque speed range of greater than 10:1, using an inverter-duty motor with internal thermal protection and externally operated cooling fan should be considered. Would below be a good specification for motors used with VFD drives for HVAC fans and pumps? If not, why not? (Send in your comments and suggestions to me at
[email protected]): • All three phase motors (ODP or TEFC) used with VFDs for variable torque applications shall be constructed in conformance with NEMA Standard MG1, Part 31.4.4.2. This means 230 and 460 volt motors meet NEMA’s corona inception voltage requirements, under MEMA MG1 Standardand can withstand peak voltages of up to 1,600 volts, switching frequencies up to “xxx” ( “xxx” depends on the specified VFD). • Turndown: Motors shall be capable of a turndown ratio of 10:1. • Windings: Copper magnet wire with moisture-resistant insulation varnish, designed, and tested to resist transient spikes, high frequencies, and short time rise pulses produced by PWM inverters. • Class: Class F temperature rise; Class H insulation. • Motors shall be compatible with VFDs using either power bipolar junction transistor (BJTs) or insulated gate bipolar transistors (IGBTs). • Thermal Protection: Comply with NEMA MG 1 Part 31.4.4.2 requirements for thermally protected motors. • Provide a full product replacement and labor guarantee and warranty ensuring complete compatibility of the motor with the VFD drive such that the service life of the motor and VFD shall be a minimum of one year under installed operating conditions. ENERGY CONSIDERATIONS Motor efficiency is a measure of the ability of a motor to convert electrical energy into mechanical work. Electric motors have a significant impact on overall energy use in the building industry. Is there a correlation of motor energy efficiency and the energy savings provided when VFDs are used? Does the use of a VFD on a motor affect the energy efficiency of a motor in a way that would cause the motor to be less efficient when not running at full speed, and is this taken into account in any sort of true life cycle cost analysis in a fan or pump selection based on a full- and part-load analysis of the building loads? Does more research need to be done in the industry before VFDs are so quickly used for convenience of TAB purposes if the energy efficiency of the motor is lessened when used with a VFD? The Energy Policy Act (EPAct) was signed into law on October 24, 1992 with an effective date of October 24, 1997. EPAct and was aimed at conserving energy by increasing motor efficiencies
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for those electric motors responsible for the largest portion of the electricity consumption. The Energy Independence and Security Act (EISA) was signed into law December 19, 2007 with an effective date of December 19, 2010. EISA further raised the minimum efficiency levels mandated by EPAct and requires motors previously covered by EPAct to now meet the premium efficient (PE) levels defined in NEMA MG-1 (2006), Table 12-12. It also added additional motor types that must meet the Energy Efficient limits defined in NEMA MG-1 (2006), Table 12-11. One question to be considered now is are all PE motors VFD compatible if they meet NEMA MG-1, or is there more to consider in the electrical system design? TALK TO AN EE It would be impossible for one article to cover all that is needed to know when discussing motors and VFDs. It would probably be wise for most mechanical engineers to consult with an electrical engineer who is knowledgeable about motors, VFDs, and the entire electrical system in a building when selecting and specifying electric motors and drives. SUMMARY In preparation for writing this article, the author solicited opinions on what issues needed to be addressed. As you can imagine, there were many more issues than space available, so this article was written in part as food for thought for specifying engineers who deal with this challenge on a daily basis. Several sources have been used to write this article, too many to document. Suffice it to say that there was not one single expert resource found that really addressed all the concerns of engineers trying to specify motors and VFDs. What has become obvious is that there is a huge need for the motor and VFD industry to develop a “Designer’s Guide For Engineers” in the HVAC Industry from a solid engineering perspective. One last comment — this author readily admits to not being an expert in the field of motors and drives and has written this article in a manner to stimulate discussion in the industry to help clear up some obvious confusion and marketing that is clearly meant to generate proprietary specifications. ES
Liescheidt is the owner of SPPECSS Consulting, LLC and has over 30 years experience in the HVAC industry, including time spent in the consulting engineering segment of the industry, manufacturers’ sales rep segment of the industry, and as a health care corporate engineer. Reach him at
[email protected]. SPPECSS Consulting, LLC is a technical marketing consulting company that works primarily with HVAC product manufacturers to develop technical marketing materials, provide sales and marketing seminars, and assist with development of technical marketing plans. See www.sppecss. com for more information about SPPECSS Consulting, LLC.
Come see us at the AHR Expo Booth #1019
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This month, our life safety coverage arrives from the commissioning side. From design phase to tips on navigating a seemingly untenable number of observations, and on to post-testing tasks, here’s one consultant’s solid reference to keep you and your client from getting unnecessarily alarmed. BY TIM THATCHER, P.E.
B
uilding codes require fire alarm systems to be installed in many buildings. If the scope of a commissioning plan includes the fire alarm system, then the commissioning consultant (CxC) will perform or be involved in activities associated with these aspects of fire alarm system execution:
• Design review • Test procedures • System readiness checklists • Testing • Fire alarm program review • Documentation of testing • O&M manual review • Training • Warranty period review OVERVIEW Commissioning provides a fully functional fire alarm system, documentation of the fire alarm testing and documentation of how the fire alarm system functions to the building owner and operators. The CxC writes test procedures for the fire alarm system based on the design documents. The test procedures provide instructions to verify that the fire alarm system generates the design specified responses to specific inputs. Inputs to the fire alarm system consist mainly of detection devices, but some inputs consist of fault conditions that provide warnings to the building operators.
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DESIGN If the commissioning plan includes participation of the CxC during design development, then the CxC encourages formal communication between the designers and the building owner. The formal communication includes an owner’s project requirement (OPR) document, which lists the specific expectations of the building owner for the fire alarm system. During design review, the CxC reviews the specifications and drawings based on the expectations listed in the OPR. Also, the CxC usually reviews the design for clarity of the requirements and for adequacy of testing requirements. An adequate testing requirement would be: Test the fire alarm system in accordance with NFPA-72 (National Fire Alarm Code) and verify all the system reactions per the direction of the CxC. The CxC usually does not review the design with respect to code-related requirements such as the location and number of fire alarm/detection devices. The fire marshal or other authorities having jurisdiction review the design for code-related requirements. TEST PREPARATION After the design phase, the CxC prepares a system readiness checklist (SRC) and a fire alarm test procedure. The SRC contains items that need to be marked off as complete by the fire alarm contractor prior to the start of testing. The fire alarm test procedure contains items that the CxC intends to witness.
The intent of the SRC is to document that the fire alarm system is complete. The intent of the test procedure is to verify that the system is complete. The obvious distinction between the SRC and the test procedure is that a biased party (the contractor) completes the SRC and an owner’s representative (CxC) verifies completion of the test procedure. To a large extent, the CxC develops the SRC based upon past experiences of finding incomplete work during testing. Incomplete work wastes the time of all the parties involved with testing. Thus, the SRC contains such items as verifying: • All devices are installed • All devices are wired to the control panel(s) • All devices’ electronic addresses are properly set • All programming is complete • All interfaces with the sprinkler system are complete • No trouble indications are displayed at the control panel(s) Ideally, the CxC prepares a fire alarm test procedure for issue with the construction bid documents. The test procedure would be a contract requirement that the bidders have had a chance to read and to develop a cost estimate for performance of the test. However, the time period between the completion of the design documents and the design issue for bid usually does not leave time to develop a test procedure. Thus, the CxC includes an example test procedure in the bid documents. The example test procedure contains all the elements of the required testing. The CxC develops the final test procedure for use in the field towards the end of the construction project. While preparing the fire alarm test procedure, the CxC reviews miscellaneous project documents in addition to the bid documents’ requirements. The miscellaneous project documents include the fire alarm system submittal, design documents addenda, changeorders, and requests for information. The CxC test procedure includes all test items indicated in NFPA-72 that are applicable to the specific installation plus the specific requirements of the project documents. The CxC test procedure includes action statements for testing individual devices such as “activate all smoke detectors,” “activate all pull stations,” or “simulate a fault condition.” Prior to testing, the CxC develops detailed spreadsheets that list all the devices to be activated and all fault conditions to be simulated. Each item of each list needs to be marked as complete by the CxC during testing. In addition to documenting individual device tests, the test procedure needs to include a means to document fire alarm system responses to device activation. Often, the design documents indicate the required system reaction in a matrix (table) format. The various categories of devices would be in the first column of the matrix. The various system reactions would be in the first row (or heading) of the matrix. The interior boxes of the matrix would be marked with an “X” to indicate which reactions are required for which device activation. The test procedure could include a blank version of the matrix to be marked-up during testing. Or, the test procedure could contain a list of each device category with the required system reactions itemized (sub-list) for each device category. Each sub-list item needs to be marked complete by the CxC during testing.
A CxC becomes an expert at developing lists. For large fire alarm systems with many devices, the CxC should request the fire alarm contractor to print out a list of devices in the system. This list can be used for mark-up during testing instead of spending hours developing a separate list in an original spreadsheet.
A CxC becomes an expert at developing lists. For large fire alarm systems with many devices, the CxC should requestt the fire allarm contractor to print out a list of devices in the system. This list can be used for mark-u up during testing instead of spending hours developing a separate list in an original spreadsheet. TESTING A typical fire alarm system test includes: • Smoke detectors • Pull-stations • Strobe lights • Horns and/or speakers • Flow switches (sprinkler water) • Tamper switches (sprinkler water valves) • Control panels A typical fire alarm system provides signals to provide the following for an alarm event: • Audible and visual alarm • Smoke damper closure • HVAC shutdown The start of fire alarm system testing usually involves the fire marshal (or other authority have jurisdiction) and the CxC. The fire marshal’s testing has priority, and he will direct the testing. However, many fire marshals perform limited testing. The CxC documents the testing performed by the fire marshal, and then after the fire marshal completes his testing, the CxC directs the remainder of the testing. The following paragraphs describe testing as if the CxC directed the entire testing and in roughly the sequence that the author of this article would conduct testing. After a test coordination discussion with the fire alarm contractor, the CxC requests the activation of a detection device such as a smoke detector or pull-station. Smoke detectors are activated using
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“canned smoke” (a special spray) and, obviously, the pull station is activated by hand. After the device activates, the CxC walks the entire building to verify that all the strobe lights and horns (or speakers) function. The CxC carries the fire alarm layout drawing in order to verify the devices’ locations are per the design. The CxC uses a decibel meter to measure alarm sound levels in building spaces that seem relatively quiet. Fifteen decibels above ambient noise levels is the normal acceptance criterion. Often, most building areas have obviously adequate alarm sound levels so that decibel measurements are not necessary in all areas.
Activation of audible and visual devices by zones, instead of the whole building, is another example of a fire allarm conttroll program function. In short, the fire alarm control program receiives an inp put off a fire alarm and then generates signals to operate devices in the desired manner. All of the operated devices can be thought of as electrical relays that are either open or closed. After verification that the strobe lights and horns function the fire alarm system response can be “silenced” (an override at the control panel) for testing all the remaining detection devices. This testing will verify for each device that it does activate and provides the proper signal to the fire alarm control panel: device electronic address and device name. The device electronic address is a unique identification number and the device name is a brief description of the device. The device name usually includes the device location (room number) and the device type (smoke detector or waterflow switch). The CxC can verify that each detection device will initiate an alarm event by reviewing the fire alarm system program. For a simple fire alarm system, the program contains a list of each detection device (listed by device address). The fire alarm program provides the same system response (alarm) for the activation of each device in the list. The CxC verifies that the list contains each detection device shown on the fire alarm layout drawing. Depending upon the availability of the fire sprinkler system contractor, the CxC will test the flow and tamper switches before or after testing all the other detection devices. For flow-switch testing, the sprinkler contractor opens the flowtest valve. The sprinkler water flows through the sprinkler system pipe into a drain pipe (which is often permanently installed for sprinkler flow testing). The alarm signal to the fire alarm system from the flow
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switch must occur in less than 60 sec and preferably after a delay of about 25 sec or more. A flow switch adjusted to alarm quickly (5 to 10 sec) could cause spurious future alarms during normal building use because in some sprinkler pipe systems’ water pressure surges cause enough water flow to activate the flow switch. The CxC tests tamper switches by opening and closing the valve with the tamper switch. The acceptance criterion is that the tamper switch must activate prior to the valve wheel being fully rotated three times from the full-open position. Tamper switch activation initiates a supervisory condition at the fire alarm control panel to indicate that the valve is closed (or more precisely, not full-open). The CxC should fully close the valve in order to verify that the tamper switch remains activated through the entire motion of the valve steam. Tamper switches are not high-tech devices, and sometimes the installation configuration causes the tamper switch to indicate the valve is closed at “three rotations” but open for the full-closed position of the valve stem. If the design requires the fire alarm system to provide shutdown signals to smoke dampers and HVAC equipment (AHUs), the CxC needs to verify these system reactions. For some systems, any alarm device activation causes all smoke dampers and HVAC equipment to shutdown. For other systems, only duct smoke detectors will cause smoke dampers and HVAC equipment to shutdown. If any device causes shutdown, then the CxC activates one device and checks all the smoke dampers for closure and HVAC equipment for shutdown. As similarly explained for the strobe and horn activation, the fire alarm program contains a list of alarm devices that cause smoke damper and HVAC equipment shutdown. The CxC reviews the program list to verify that list contains all the alarm devices (addresses). Duct smoke detectors are important specialty devices to detect smoke in the HVAC system. Normally, the duct smoke detector consists of a smoke detector (head) in a plastic box mounted on the duct with two air probe tubes (metal) connected from the plastic box to the interior of the duct. One air probe tube traverses the width of the duct and has air holes that face into the airflow (and the end of the tube plugged). The other air probe tube does not have any air holes except that the end of the tube is open. The path of airflow (and any smoke) is into the holes facing the airflow to the plastic box and back into the duct via the tube with the open end. Smoke passing through the box activates the smoke detector. Testing them consists of three parts. The CxC tests the smoke detector by spraying canned smoke onto the detector (just like normal smoke detectors) and then checking for smoke damper and HVAC shutdown. Then, after system reset, differential air pressure between the two tubes is measured. This involves opening the plastic box and attaching the air pressure gage plastic tubes to the open ends of the air probe tubes which enter the box. Attachment of the plastic tubes requires adaptors made out of a plastic (or cork) plug with a hole and metal fitting for the plastic tube. The required minimum differential pressure is 0.015 in. wc for most duct smoke detector configurations. A typical maximum differential pressure is 2 in. wc, which essentially is never an issue. The third part of the duct smoke detector testing pertains to review of how the airflow is controlled in the duct. Many HVAC systems have variable airflow. The CxC needs to determine the HVAC operating mode with the lowest airflow, and CxC activates that HVAC operating mode, repeating the differential airflow measurement to verify the differential pressure is above minimum. It is not unusual for duct smoke detectors configurations to fail this low-airflow test.
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With the field devices and fire alarm system responses tested, the CxC verifies field wiring fault detection features of the fire alarm control panel(s). The control panel will provide “trouble” signals to the building operators if a field wiring circuit has: (a) an open circuit, (b) a grounded circuit, (c) a short circuit, or (d) a smoke detector head that is not installed on the detector base. The CxC simulates an open circuit by disconnecting one wire at the control panel terminal block for the field wiring circuit; grounded circuit by connecting (“jumping”) a wire from one field circuit wire at the control panel terminal block to the (grounded) control panel enclosure; and short circuit by connecting (jumping) both ends of a field wiring circuit at the terminal block. Creating a short has a slight potential of damaging control panel interior solid state devices, and permission should be sought from the fire alarm system technician beforehand. The CxC tests for a missing detector head by removing the smoke detector head from its base. Experience has indicated that these fault detection features essentially never fail to properly provide trouble signals. Complex fire alarm systems in large buildings consist of some or all of these attributes: • Hundreds of smoke detectors • Zoned strobes and horns • Zoned HVAC shutdown • Zoned smoke damper closure • Door closure (magnetic devices) • Elevator recall • Smoke control For large systems with hundreds of detectors and many activated devices (dampers, doors, HVAC, smoke control) it is impractical to physically observe all system reactions for each of the many detectors. If a system had 100 detectors, and each detector caused (on average) 10 smoke dampers to close, five doors to close, and two HVAC units to shutdown, then physical observation of each device (damper, door, HVAC) for each detector activation would mean 1,700 observations. The following explains a relatively efficient method for testing. A CxC will observe the action of each device within the complex system. At least once, the CxC will observe smoke damper closure, door closures, and elevator recall. Likewise, the CxC observes HVAC shutdown and smoke control startup in order to verify that control hardware components (wires and relays) create the desired action. In essence, the CxC observes that each electrical relay operated by the fire alarm system does initiate the desired mechanical reaction. Once the mechanical reactions have been observed, then the operation of the fire alarm program needs to be verified. For a large, complex fire alarm system, the fire alarm contractor writes a fire alarm control program to operate the system in accordance with the design requirements. As mentioned previously, the design documents often indicate the required system reaction in a matrix (table) format. The design requirements indicate what system devices are activated based on which detector signals a fire event. Often, the detectors are grouped into zones and the fire alarm system devices are activated based upon which zone has a fire event. The fire alarm control program provides the logic for activating the devices. For example, a high-rise building with smoke control could have each floor as a separate fire zone. The fire alarm control pro-
gram operates smoke control equipment in a particular manner to contain smoke based upon which zone (floor) has a fire event. Activation of audible and visual devices by zones, instead of the whole building, is another example of a fire alarm control program function. In short, the fire alarm control program receives an input of a fire alarm and then generates signals to operate devices in the desired manner. All of the operated devices can be thought of as electrical relays that are either open or closed. The link between the fire alarm control program and the physical devices (relays) of the fire alarm system is the addresses (identification numbers) of the devices. In a fire alarm system, each device has a unique address. The detectors have addresses and these are the inputs (on/off) to the program. The relays have addresses and these are the outputs (open/ close) of the program. The fire alarm system will not respond correctly if the addresses are incorrect. During field testing, the CxC verifies the address of each device by observing that the address is correctly displayed on the fire alarm control panel when that device is activated. For fire alarm program review, the CxC obtains a printout of the fire alarm control program. The program logic for each designrequired fire alarm system reaction must be verified. For some programs this may mean tracing the program logic for each fire detector. Usually, for zoned fire alarm systems, tracing the program logic for each group (zone) of detectors verifies the control program function. For any program logic that is not decipherable, the CxC requests assistance from the fire alarm system technician (or programmer). Many fire alarm systems have a history log that will show the time at which the system activated relays. The log can be reviewed after a simulated (or real) fire event to determine which devices (strobes, horns, dampers, HVAC, etc.) were activated. Obviously, this can be a great assistance to testing the system. Depending upon the size and complexity of the fire alarm system, reviewing the history log for the activation of each and every detector may be as efficient or more efficient than reviewing the fire alarm control program. Or, the history log can be used in conjunction with a listing of the fire alarm control program to analyze the fire alarm system. Upon completion of field testing, the CxC reviews the testing documents for completion to ensure each device and system reaction has been checked off. For any equipment failures, the CxC provides a report to the project team. The familiarity with the fire alarm system that the CxC obtains allows the CxC to perform a rigorous review of the O&M manual for the system. Also, if the commissioning plan includes training, the CxC can assist with the on-site training of the building operators. During the normal one-year warranty period, the CxC periodically contacts the building operators to ask about system problems. If the system has persistent problems, then the CxC can assist with initiating and conducting a meeting with the contractors to address the problems. ES Thatcher works as a mechanical engineer for Questions & Solutions Engineering, Inc. (Chaska, MN). He performs HVAC and fire alarm commissioning of new and existing buildings as well as energy studies of existing buildings. His fire alarm commissioning projects include the Pentagon and the Cleveland Art Museum.
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Issues&Events 2012 AHR Expo Innovation Award category winners
The winners of the prestigious 2012 AHR Expo Innovation Awards have been chosen and will be honored at a special ceremony during the world’s largest HVACR exposition and conference in Chicago on January 24th. Representing a broad cross-section of the HVACR marketplace, the winning entries were selected in 10 categories and represent the most innovative new products among the thousands that will be displayed at the show. A panel of judges, made up of ASHRAE members, evaluated the products submitted based on innovation, application, value to the user, and market impact. Making products ranging from a wall-mounted solar air heater to a mobile toolbox for contractors, many well-known industry leaders will share the stage with companies new to the competition. Emerson Climate Technologies was the big winner, capturing three of the top ten awards. The winners of the 2012 AHR Expo Innovation Awards are:
One of the 10 category winners will also be selected as the winner of the 2012 AHR Expo Product of the Year Award. Winners receive placards to display at their booths during the Show as well as an etched crystal award to be displayed at their company’s headquarters. In addition, 31 other products are recognized with Honorable Mentions in these same 10 categories and will also be given placards to display in their booths. There were a record number of companies entering the competition this year. The nearly $12,000 generated by the entry fees will be donated to a charitable organization in the Chicago area. Since the inception of the Innovation Award Competition in 2003, more than $100,000 has been donated to charitable organizations and educational institutions in the cities where the Expo was held. “We are honored to celebrate the 10th Anniversary of the Innovation Awards because it is so meaningful to the HVACR industry,” said Clay Stevens, president of International Exposition Company, which produces and manages the AHR Expo. “It encourages innovation, recognizes excellence and enables us to help charitable organizations.” The Honorable Mentions go to:
Building Automation Company: Geofinity Manufacturing Inc. Product: ORB Heat Pump Controller
Building Automation Company: American Auto-Matrix Product: AspectFT Product Family Energy Management and BAS Solution
Cooling Company: Emerson Climate Technologies Product: Copeland Scroll Variable Speed Compressor Green Building Company: ClimaCool Corp. Product: SHC onDEMAND™ Simultaneous Heating and Cooling Heat Pump System Heating Company: Enerconcept Technologies Inc. Product: The Lubi Wall Wall-mounted Solar Air Heater
Plumbing Company: Rheem Manufacturing Company Product: The Rheem XR90 Extreme Recovery Gas Water Heater Refrigeration Company: Emerson Climate Technologies Product: Copeland Scroll K5 Refrigeration Compressor Software Company: Emerson Climate Technologies Product: Emerson Climate Technologies HVACR Mobile Toolbox For Contractors
Cooling Company: ClimateMaster, Inc. Product: Tranquility 22 Digital Series Geothermal Heat Pump
Company: Enertech Global, LLC Product: GeoComfort Compass GXT Series Vertical Geothermal Heat Pump Company: McQuay International Product: Daikin McQuay Rebel Commercial Rooftop Unit Company: Seeley International (Americas) Product: Breezair Icon Series evaporative air Conditioner Green Building Company: Columbus Industries, Inc. Product: MICRO SHIELD Mini Pleat Filter Company: Enertech Global, LLC Product: TETCO Geothermal ES4 Series TXT Vertical Heat Pump
Tools & Instruments Company: Fluke Corporation Product: Fluke TiR1 Thermal Imager
Company: Lochinvar, LLC Product: Strato-Therm+ Solar Thermal Storage Tank Heating
Ventilation Company: Melink Corporation Product: Intelli-Hood Kitchen Ventilation Control
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Company: Emerson Climate Technologies Product: Copeland Scroll Compressor with CoreSense Communications
Company: Danfoss Turbocor Compressors Product: TT400 380V High-efficiency Compressor
IAQ Company: E+E Elektronik Ges. m.b.H. Product: EE245 Wireless Transmitter
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Company: Delta Controls Inc. Product: Delta Controls DVC-V322PoE BACnet Advanced Application Controller
January 2012
Company: Lochinvar, LLC Product: CREST Condensing Boiler
Issues&Events Company: Mestek, Inc. Product: HeatNet Integrated Control Platform Condensing Hydronic Heating Boiler Company: Uponor Product: Radiant Ready 30E Mechanical Room Package IAQ Company: Building Automation Products, Inc. Product: CO2 Sensor Company: Panasonic Home & Environment Company Product: WhisperSense-Lite Ventilation Fan-light Company: Sanuvox Technologies Inc. Product: Sanuvox R+ In-Duct UV System Plumbing Company: CAN2GO (SCL Elements Inc.) Product: CAN2GO DA2 Intelligent Wireless Valve Actuator Company: Webstone Company, Inc. Product: Hydro-Core Hydronic Manifold System Refrigeration Company: Alfa Laval Inc. Product: AXP Brazed Heat Exchanger Company: Testo, Inc. Product: Testo 570 Refrigeration System Analyzer Software Company: Alerton Products: Alerton Building Suite 3 Automation/Energy Management Software Company: Data-Basics, Inc. Product: TechAnywhere Mobile Field Service Software Company: J2 Innovations Product: FIN Builder Building Automation Software Company: Service Automation, Inc. Product: SAWIN MOBILE Wireless Service Software Instruments Company: Appion Inc. Product: Tez Speed System HVAC System Evacuator Company: Fieldpiece Instruments, Inc. Product: LT17AW Digital Multimeter Company: Goodway Technologies Corp. Product: RAM Pro Tube Cleaner Ventilation Company: American Louver Company Product: EP Diffuser Company: DuctSox Corporation Product: SkeleCore In-duct Cylindrical Tensioning Device Company: Ruskin Company Product: HPG3845 FEMA Grille
The Innovation Awards are jointly sponsored by the American Society of Heating, Refrigerating and Air-Conditioning Engineers
(ASHRAE); the Air-Conditioning, Heating and Refrigeration Institute (AHRI); and the International Exposition Company (IEC), producers and organizers of the AHR Expo. For more information on the AHR Expo Innovation Awards, visit www.ahrexpo.com.
Book offers guidance on implementing energy savings plans
Guidance on increasing energy efficiency in existing buildings through measuring and tracking efficiency and implementing an efficiency plan is featured in a new book from leading built environment organizations. Energy Efficiency Guide for Existing Commercial Buildings: Technical Implementation provides clear and easily understood technical guidance for energy upgrades, retrofits, and renovations by which building engineers and managers can achieve at least a 30% improvement in energy performance relative to a range of benchmark energy utilization indexes. It features practical means and methods for planning, executing and monitoring an effective program, based on widely available techniques and technologies. “Energy efficiency improvement in buildings is one of the greatest means to increase resource efficiency, improve environmental stewardship and save operating funds,” George Jackins, who chaired the committee overseeing the book, said. “More importantly, energy efficient improvement should happen because it makes good business sense. Good planning and ongoing commitment is essential to maximizing investments in energy efficiency.” Improving energy in an existing building is an iterative process, but first you have to know where you are starting from, according to Jackins. The book recommends some tips on how to begin the energy savings process: • Calculate energy use and cost • Set energy performance goals • Measure and analyze current energy use • Select and implement energy efficiency measures • Measure and report improvements • Continue to track performance and reassess goals Energy Efficiency Guide for Existing Commercial Buildings: Technical Implementation is the second energy efficient guide for existing commercial buildings developed by the same group developing at the Advanced Energy Design Guide series for new buildings – ASHRAE, the American Institute of Architects, the Illuminating Engineering Society of North America and the USGBC and supported by the DOE. In addition, the Building Owners and Managers Association and the U.S. General Services Administration were involved in its development. The first, Energy Efficiency Guide for Existing Commercial Buildings: The Business Case for Building Owners and Managers, provides the rationale for making economic decisions related to improving and sustaining energy efficiency in existing buildings. The cost of Energy Efficiency Guide for Existing Commercial Buildings – Technical Implementation is $75 ($64, ASHRAE members). To order, contact ASHRAE Customer Contact Center at 1-800-527-4723 (United States and Canada) or 404-636-8400 (worldwide), fax 404321-5478, or visit www.ashrae.org/bookstore. ES
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ProductsInFocus BOILERS
VALVES
The WM97+ boiler is a wall mount boiler that comes in 70,000 and 110,000 Btu input models, both at a AFUE rating of 97%. The WM97+ offers a unique condensing stainless steel heat exchanger, built-in boiler circulator, and a built-in primary secondary option. — Weil-McLain
FREE INFO: CIRCLE NO. 300
UV DISINFECTION The Phillips Intelligent Disinfection Wall UV disinfection system is designed to be integrated with existing BAS protocols such as BACnet. Traditionally, UV disinfection systems are static systems. By automating the UV disinfection applied to air handler coils to match variable HVAC usage, building owners and operators can save an additional 60% to 80% on electrical costs beyond the savings and health benefits already achieved by such systems.
The PTP Series three-way PVC ball valves are designed to protect piping systems and reduce cost. With a single automated three-way valve, there is no need to purchase and install multiple actuators and solenoids, which saves I/O space in the control panel. A single three-way valve eliminates extra overhead, installation time, and saves money. In addition, eliminating the second valve, actuator, and solenoid reduces the weight of the piping system and occupies less space. — Assured Automation
— Lumalier FREE INFO: CIRCLE NO. 301
CONTROLS
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PRESSURE SENSORS
The company has released an enhanced version of its York® Commercial Comfort Systems (YCCS), a broad range of mechanical systems and integrated controls for the commercial building environment. Using YCCS, building owners and operators can network single-zone, constantvolume HVAC units, multiple changeover bypass or VAV-zoned systems, or have a combination of both. YCCS application-specific unit controllers feature standalone functionality in a microprocessor-based device, providing internal time-clock functions for daily programming capability. — Johnson Controls
The company has released new differential pressure sensors in the SDP600 Series. The new SDP6x6 sensor line features especially low energy consumption, making it suitable for long-term battery operation. The SDP606 and SDP616 sensors are designed to enter sleep mode after performing each measurement. They wake up when a “measure” command is received and enter sleep mode again after completing the measurement. The operation currents of a standard SDP600 sensor can be high as 6 mA, but the new SDP6x6 sensor is optimized for operating currents no greater than 400 μA. There is virtually no current drain (<1 μA) in sleep mode. — Sensirion
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ENERGY MANAGEMENT The company has released the EC-NetAX EnerVue Web-based energy management dashboard, which provides visualization of vital building metrics through an easy-to-use, browser-based dashboard application. EC-NetAX EnerVue allows users to quickly identify issues, assess relationships, and take action in order to optimize resource efficiencies and sustainability, and ultimately increase energy and operational cost savings across their building portfolio. The application makes use of, and converts into graphics and reports, large amounts of real-time and historical data available in the company’s EC-NetAX Web-based multi-protocol building management system. — Distech FREE INFO: CIRCLE NO. 305
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Literature&Catalogs PUMPS
FANS
The company’s PUMP-FLO software allows users to search across a manufacturer's pump catalog to generate a dynamic pump curve based on a system design point search. Additional search criteria include fluid properties, motor sizing, NPSH calculations, pump limits, and system operating points. Once a dynamic pump curve is generated, users have the ability to adjust operating speeds and dynamically generate electronic curves and data sheet reports. — Engineered Software, Inc. FREE INFO: CIRCLE NO. 400
The company’s 52-page catalog details its line of Model G and GB centrifugal roof downblast exhaust fans, now including the direct-drive Vari-Green motor option. Information on Model G and GB emergency smoke control, seismic, and high wind and hurricane applications and protocols is included. The catalog also features detailed configurations, options and accessories information, and typical specifications. — Greenheck
A/C This guide, “How to Prevent IT Equipment from Overheating — in Winter: Keeping Server Rooms and Telecom Closets Cool in Heated Buildings,” is for facility managers, IT managers, and mechanical contractors and examines the advantages of a new class of self-contained, ceiling-mounted air conditioners, which are specifically designed for cooling small spaces with dense heat loads. — MovinCool® FREE INFO: CIRCLE NO. 401
LIGHTING
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ROOFTOP INDUCERS A brochure featuring rooftop inducers is now available. The inducers, now being offered with a constant operating pressure control (COP), are designed for installation on top of masonry or metal chimneys. The literature also contains available accessories plus selection/sizing charts for various heating sources. — Tjernlund Products, Inc. FREE INFO: CIRCLE NO. 404
This new publication is the latest addition to the company’s CodeSmart initiative, and examines requirements for both indoor and outdoor lighting controls. Control Solution sections include best practice recommendations for major control mandates that are designed to meet code while also maximizing return on investment (ROI). Each solution includes a sample floorplan illustrating lighting, room layout, and controls as well as a typical equipment list. — WattStopper FREE INFO: CIRCLE NO. 403
ECONOMIZERS This brochure features the EcoFlex 90+ System packaged fan-powered flue gas economizer. Included are product photos, performance data, specification charts, and system examples. The EcoFlex 90+ features a variable speed and direct drive, as well as a removable drive unit. — ENERVEX
FREE INFO: CIRCLE NO. 405
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Classifieds
Fax Mike O’Connor your Classified at 610-354-9390 or call 610-354-9552 for more information.
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Use articles from Engineered Systems to complement your sales, promotion, or educational programs. Reprints are a great way to strengthen your message. There are many ways in which companies are using reprints: • Trade show handouts • Direct mail to customers • Sales and training aids Print reprints are available in 4-color or black & white in quantities of 500 or more. Take advantage of this cost effective way to spread the word about your company!
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ENERGY-EFFICIENT SOLUTIONS FOR HIGH-PERFORMANCE BUILDINGS
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AdIndex
To access further advertiser information please visit www.cdsreportnow.com/get?esm and enter the info number from this ad index. This is a service to our readers, ES is not responsible for errors or omissions.
3M Purification, Inc. www.filtrete.com/commercialbuilding Page 30 Info #314
Daikin AC www.daikinperforms.com Page IBC Info #310
LG Electronics USA, Inc. www.lg-vrf.com Page 5 Info #207
A-J Manufacturing www.ajmfg.com 800-247-5746 Page 61 Info #13
Danfoss www.danfoss.com Page 9 Info #33
Mars Air Systems www.marsair.com 800-421-1266 Page 65 Info #137
Data Aire, Inc. www.dataaire.com Page 29 Info #15
AAF International www.aafintl.com Page 42 Info #143 Advantix Systems www.advantixsystems.com/notwheel Page BC Info #2
Delta Cooling Towers, Inc. www.deltacooling.com Page 69 Info #70 Deciccant Rotors International Inc. www.driamerica.com Page 63 Info #103
Airius www.theairpear.com 888-AIR-PEAR Page 38 Info #304 Armacell Advanced Insulation www.armacell.us Page 34 Info #88 AMBA www.boilermactfacts.com Page 75 AMCA www.amca.org Page 79
Dow Chemical Co. www.dowfrost.com Page 13 Info #223 Ductmate www.ductmate.com Page 21 Info #113 DuraVent www.duravent.com Page 59 Info #317 ebm-papst Inc. www.ebmpapst.us/greentech Page 11 Info #129
Baldor www.baldor.com Page 39 Info #13
Fulton www.fulton.com Page 36 Info #218
Bard Manufacturing www.bardhvac.com Page 27 Info #29
Goodway www.goodway.com/tubecleaning Page 32 Info #34
Belimo www.belimo.com Page 63 Info #151
Greenheck www.greenheck.com Page 67 Info #43
Bradford-White www.bradfordwhite.com Page 53 Info #128 CAMUS Hydronics www.camus-hydronics.com Page 37 Info #198 Carrier Corporation www.2012GEC.com Page 73
Harsco Industrial www.harscopk.com Page 15 Info #125 Hurst Boiler www.hurstboiler.com Page 7 Info #163 Innotech www.innotechamerica.com Page 55 Info #85
Chil-Pak www.chil-pak.com Page 61 Info #315 Cleaver-Brooks www.cleaverbrooks.com/EX Page 41 Info #73
Klo-Shure www.klo-shure.com Page IFC Info #75
McQuay International www.go.mcquay.com/ads/magg22 Page 57 Info #4 Mitsubishi Electric www.totalinstalledcosts.com Page 17 Info #87 Nortec www.humidity.com Page 33 Info #144 Orival Inc. www.orival.com Page 18 Info #105 Parker Boiler www.parkerboiler.com Page 32 Info #16 Raypak, Inc. www.RAYPAK.com Page 35 Info #132 Shortridge Instruments, Inc. www.shortridge.com Page 69 Info #49 Siemens www.usa.siemens.com/wireless Page 19 Info #168 Unilux www.uniluxboilers.com Page 25 Info #82 United CoolAir www.unitedcoolair.com Page 28 Info #313 Vapac www.vapachumidification.com Page 23 Info #316 Weil-McLain www.weil-mclain.com Page 3 Info #63 Yaskawa www.yaskawa.com Page 31 Info #42 Zoo Fans www.zoofans.com Page 40 Info #311
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89
Tomorrow’sEnvironment BY HOWARD MCKEW, P.E., C.P.E.
THANK YOU, Steve Jobs The hard part was more about presentation and persuasion than waiting on technology.
As noted in last month’s issue, I am starting to my 21st year writing this column. During that time, I wrote 30 of my 240 columns about O&M, touching on topics such as CMMS, PM workorder systems, training, facility management, telephone modem-to-Internet access, bar coding, and handheld technology. While I have championed each of these themes, and many a reader would contact me and congratulate me on the column, little has happened in the “real world” until probably the past two to three years. I believe the reason many of my thoughts/columns are finally becoming reality is not because of my writing, but thanks to Steve Jobs who passed away last October. In my March 2003 column, I talked about 19th-century brass valve tags and the idea of barcoded identification tags using handheld devices to scan and read information from the iPad. I thought this was a no-brainer, but nothing much happened until recently. During this time, Steve Jobs’ company was continuously championing his vision of handheld technology while, unbeknown to him, I was writing about the potential of this technology in the building industry. How he was able to get much of the world’s population, without complaining, to use their oversized fingers and thumbs to send text messages on tiny computerized, wireless devices has been amazing to observe (although I do believe some of these disciples need to put their handheld devices away when entering a men’s room). In a discussion with Amanda McKew, who writes “The Facility Files,” she noted that with today’s iPad junkies, we can say there is hope that we have finally left the 20th century behind. Her firm is helping to modernize facility management by developing programs using wireless technology. After going back and looking at some 30 columns I had published on facility management, Amanda showed me what her company has been doing in sync with most of the ideas I wrote about. Today, it is possible to deliver a proactive maintenance management system (“CMMS Ready on Day One of Occupancy,” February 2004). The estimated cost is 1/10 of 1% of the construction cost to have a CMMS in place, asset database populated, PM workorder documents, and iPad (or other handheld devices) programmed and ready to go. This strategically planned facility management approach can be, and is, connected to the Internet via a wireless connection so that access, monitoring, and documenting can be done efficiently and in a timely manner. So, after all these years of suggesting there was a better way, there are facility managers today who are saying that handheld devices, computerized O&M programs, and open-protocol access to the operating system is their standard operating procedure. Through the use of time-tested, web-based technology, building programs managers can show that using today’s facility management software can seamlessly perform activities such as reporting compliance with industry (e.g., JCAHO) guidelines and regulations. With improved O&M efficiency they can also show
90
En gi n e e r e d S y stem s
January 2012
How he was abl How ble e to get muc uch h of the th e wo worl rld’ d s po popu pula lati tion on,, wi with thou outt comp co mpla lain inin ing g, to us use e th thei eir r ov over ersi size zed d fing fi nger ers s an and d th thum umbs bs to se send nd tex extt mess me ssag ages es on ti tiny ny com ompu pute teri rize zed d, wire wi rele less ss dev evic ices es has bee een n am amaz azin ing g to obs bser erve er ve (al alth thou th ough ou gh I do be beli liev li eve ev e some so me of th thes ese e di disc scip iple les s ne need ed to pu putt thei th eir r ha hand ndhe held ld devic ices es away a when hen entering a men’s room). improved customer satisfaction, which is a win-win with facility image being elevated based on customer satisfaction. Inherent with most computerized database is the ability to collect, sort, and report on each aspect of building management when handheld devices and facility management programs are used. Today, because iPad- and iPod-armed operators and technicians are fluent in using these devices, asset management and data collection is achievable. While Steve Jobs probably didn’t have facility management on his mind when thinking about all this really cool technology, he sure has made the difference today for those proactive managers who know that by having the design team specify what they really need in Division 1 of a building program’s contract specification, they have displaced 20th-century technology (“Tomorrow’s Engineer,” May 2005). With routine data input occurring as the O&M department uses their tablet computer, iPod, iPad, etc., the information can be just as easily brought out of the server’s database with the click of a icon on the computer’s toolbar. As a result, a facility manager can efficiently convert the performance information into a pie chart or Gantt chart so the layperson can understand the historical data, breakout of utility consumption, completed workorders, complaint reductions over the past year, etc. A picture is worth a 1,000 words, and Steve Jobs made pictures part of 21st-century facility management through computer technology. Want to know more? E-mail Amanda at
[email protected] and she can share with you how facility management can be at the touch of your finger. ES You can reach McKew at
[email protected] for business development planning advice and and D-B/IPD facilitator services. For more online publications, visit www.buildingsmartsoftware.com.
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