HVAC systems continue to be the most challenging part of a new construction project to get right the first time, and the most challenging parts of the HVAC systems are their controls. I believe there are two root causes.
In real estate it’s all about location. But in south Florida, where beautiful views and gorgeous weather are the norm, building owners need to find ways to differentiate themselves and bring in tenants.
This project team left nothing to chance when it came to designing a five-story mixed-space facility for a Chicago gaming company. They also dealt a full hand of space-specific tactics: upgraded DX units, a dedicated variable-speed kitchen exhaust system, underfloor air, and better motors and drives improved the odds for efficiency. Pull the handle on this project story to get to the payoff.
The Trane® Advantage VRF™ variable refrigerant system features variable-speed compressor technology and offers customizable solutions for temperature control and occupant comfort. The new systems from Trane adopt ‘smart inverter’ compressors and feature an upgraded vapor injection system, providing improved performance over previous versions.
UFAD and displacement ventilation systems require accurate estimates to meet relative humidity requirements and ensure efficient operations. Take a look at a few design options, and contemplate the reader challenge at the end.
Since their introduction in Europe in the 1950s, and their domestic rise in specification during the 1990s, UFAD and displacement ventilation systems promise significant energy savings as a direct result of a higher supply air temperature that yields an increase in the use of economizer or free cooling hours.
Practical MEP design — comprising modular boilers, waste heat recovery, remote monitoring, designing around local restrictions, and much more — delivers flexibility and sustainability to Chicago’s largest community center.
In today’s world, so-called “high-performance, sustainable” facilities are a dime a dozen. But many of these buildings rely on overly complex mechanical systems to carry out their mission.
Saint Arnold Brewing Company co-founder Brock Wagner knew that his growing craft brewery’s move to a 104,000-sq-ft building in Houston’s Northside district would require a new steam boiler system.