Serious IAQ problems in any facility cause concern, but urgency multiplies when the building is a school. Here's how one firm's creative sleuthing, which led staff and students back to a healthy learning environment. By Joanna Turpin
Western Michigan University needed a new steam and chilled water plant. However, what it wanted included flexibility regarding fuel sources, safe remote capabilities for the boiler and chiller controls, and room for future expansion. It also wanted someone else to manage the numerous web of vendors involved in such a project. Here's the story of an initial wishlist that evolved into a tailored long-term plan. By Joanna R. Turpin
One international consulting firm has become a true "design" firm, developing its own equipment solution to skyrocketing cooling demands for data center equipment. By Joanna R. Turpin
The NBA's San Antonio Spurs are the new SBC Center's primary client, but designers also had to prepare for hockey games, rodeos, and more, which presented an array of HVAC and smoke-control scenarios.
Is there still a market for proprietary building automation systems? Can a system be "open" and "proprietary" at the same time? The first part of this investigation focused on the advantages of sticking with a proprietary system. This month, we conclude with the case made by those favoring open protocols, looking at how they differ from proprietary systems and what it means for facilities and designers alike. By Joanna Turpin
Assessing the factors that go into the correct makeup air strategy for a given facility can be, well, exhausting. This article takes a look at the issues in play, including dehumidification, outdoor conditions, equipment options, and high-volume systems. It also reviews new standards for gas-fired equipment. By Joanna Turpin
Is there still a market for proprietary bas? What are the possible advantages of working with a single controls vendor? Can a system be "open" and "proprietary" at the same time? This first article in a two-part series explores potential positives. By Joanna Turpin
Over the past few years, major TES projects have been implemented at hospitals in Connecticut and Texas. This article takes a look at how the bottomline results have shaped up, and how the systems - one chilled water, one ice - may also be decreasing current maintenance costs and future expansion expenses. By Joanna R. Turpin
Spurred by motivators including its insurance company, Catholic University has spent several years implementing a gradual hvac overhaul. Campus energy efficiency has increased with each retrofit, but new metering has also earned extra credit by allowing facility staff to identify and pursue smarter operating procedures. By Joanna R. Turpin