AIR HANDLING UNITS
handling unit in the desired configuration. Although selection tools and software are available to make the specification process easier, more often than not, detailed discussions with manufacturers are needed to fine tune the configuration that exactly meets the project needs. This inevitably takes longer to prepare quotes, negotiate prices and compare options, lengthening the procurement process.
For smaller projects where a simple system f its the bill, it is possible to choose an off- the-shelf standardised AHU provided that the air flow rate required is known. This negates the need for a technical expert to get involved in the design stage along with complex calculations and specifications, simplifying procurement.
Lead times for standardised products are also shorter, enabling manufacturers to deliver their un its to fit tight project timescales.
Fully packaged
Designs which involve sophisticated air handling systems also need state-of-the- art controls to match. Whilst a major project may need a complex design and can take into
account the extra time and resources needed for its procurement, complicated con trols are not suitable for smaller schemes. In fact, standardised solutions that come fully packaged with controls are often preferred, to simplify not only procurement but also installation. For example, FläktGroup’s ‘eco’ range of heat recovery units as well as the eQ TOP and eQ PRIME air handling units can come with controls that are compatible with any central BMS system. The controls are designed to ‘p lug and play’ with no further programming required, so after the units have been installed, only air balancing and controls commissionin g needs to be carried out on site.
Site constraints
For retrofit projects, the choice of air handling solutions is not only restricted to those which can be procured quickly, but also those that can be installed within site constraints. For example, units need to be able to fit through doorways to transport them to where they are needed. A retrofit project may also make use of existing ceiling voids where service infrastructure is located, so the selected AHU unit needs to be compact enough to fit this
space with the ability to connect to existin g ducting.
Other site requirements should not be overlooked either. For example, educational institutions often require low noise levels to maintain an optimum learning and teaching environment. Recording studios too, for obvious reasons, need to specify building services solutions with low n oise levels.
Conclusion
As the impact of air pollution on our health, wellbeing and productivity moves higher up society’s agenda, an increasing number of measures are being put in place to mitigate the risks. In addition to governmental directives, modern air handling technology plays an important role in improving indoor air quality by reducing harmful pollutants in our surroundings.
With this in mind, owners of light commercial premises want modern, en ergy efficient air handling systems that are simple to procure and install. By choosing off-the-shelf, compact solutions, this can be achieved within tight project timescales as well as site constraints for retrofit schemes.
J&E Hall
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