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Articles by Kevin Dickens, P.E.

Wet and Wild Data Centers

April 1, 2007

By Kevin Dickens, P.E.

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Our society’s thirst for computing power, which began even before Windows® squashed DOS, may be pointing designers toward a fitting new option for handling spiraling heat loads in data centers: liquid cooling.Stick your toe in and review these water-based ideas, as well as glimpses of other innovations such as in-cabinet cooling coils and heat exchangers located within the server itself.

Southern Discomfort (Part II)

February 1, 2007

By Kevin Dickens, P.E.

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What are some region-specific strategies for minimizing mold and other regional IAQ problems? Consider DOAS, special VAV factors, and the ongoing case of plenum vs. ducted returns. Also, pay attention to pressurization and function in the design phase, lest you come under a less comfortable form of pressure later from the owner of a moldy building.

UFAD UFOs: (Unsubstantiated and/or False Obfuscations)

January 1, 2007

By Kevin Dickens, P.E.

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With an unconventional approach and now LEED® implications, underfloor air garners a variety of opinions these days. The author considers the sources and examines the alleged pros and cons. What about leakage? Or mold? Or the cold foot hypothesis? Could you ever really need more outside air for heating than cooling? For insights on these and other mysteries, read on. The truth is under there.

Southern Discomfort Part I

December 1, 2006

By Kevin Dickens, P.E.

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I have to admit, I’ve never seen the movie A Streetcar Named Desire, but I think most of us know that scene when Brando bellows, “Stella ... .” Frankly, I don’t even know who Stella is or why he is yelling for her, but it’s a safe bet that in the New Orleans of the 1950s, whoever Stella was, she probably heard the guy yelling from the courtyard through her open window. Today, I doubt she would. With the advance of air conditioning across the American South, fewer windows are open.

IEQ & UFAD: Where Should You Stand When The Dust Settles?

October 1, 2005

By Kevin Dickens, P.E.

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With LEED® in the fore for more and more owners and consultants, underfloor air is sometimes seen as a quick boost toward certification. On the other hand, some also view UFAD as an air quality problem in waiting. Alas, a rash decision to design with UFAD can indeed lead to regret later on. However, deploying UFAD wisely and in the right situations can increase the LEED window of success, empower occupants, and provide comparable or even superior interior results. By Kevin Dickens, P.E.

Sustainable & Attainable: A Label And The Able

August 27, 2003

By Kevin Dickens, P.E.

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LEED™ is becoming a popular tool, but it’s not the whole toolbox.

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