The relationship between energy management systems and their users seems to be an ongoing game of leapfrog. As soon as an innovation makes systems more efficient or user-friendly, the building market evolves and demands something even more. Yet another round of component developments is on the way, and one component - the direct-coupled electronic damper actuator - appears to promise four things every owner longs to hear: higher reliability, longer life, greater cost savings, and increased profits.
According to Wendy Perna, product manager for Siemens Building Technologies (Buffalo Grove, IL), case studies are suggesting that new versions such as the direct-coupled model can do all of the above while reducing labor costs on a given job by 5% to 10%. Promises aside, here are some general criteria for selecting between damper actuators and creating a successful design.