Energy efficiency, lower costs, and assurances of safety were key factors in Indiana University's decision to use heat wheel technology in its new $20.8-million Professional and Medical Education Building in Gary, IN. The decision was intensely discussed and researched. Heat wheel technology generally is not used in laboratory buildings because of the fear of contaminating incoming ventilation air with lab exhaust air. The circumstances surrounding the facility made the choice of a heat wheel system appropriate once all factors were considered.
This new building will replace an older facility, which was no longer conducive to modern education techniques with inadequate systems and teaching facilities. Enrollment at the regional medical school was declining when the overall trend for the University was increasing. Planning for the new facility began in 2001, first phase construction will be completed in July 2004, and the entire project will be completed in July 2006.