In last November’s Back2Basics, I created a test for the readers based on the idea that the patient room design was similar to a pharmaceutical cleanroom, with an air lock for people to enter and leave the room.
A new survey from the Building Commissioning Association (BCA) found that an overwhelming majority of engineers and other building professionals believe that duct leakage is a significant cause of energy loss in most commercial buildings today.
Many methods await when it comes to reducing exhaust rates. Fortunately, engineers can avail themselves of multiple tactics, from the hood specification to proper commissioning and air balance.
When it comes to ductwork for VAV systems, could the shortest path to better air handling cost and efficiencies be round (or spiral)? Aided by static regain and streamlined installation, here’s the case for no more corners.
Environmental factors, IAQ-related codes and standards, even architectural building materials … a lot of factors combine to create a moving target for designers of good humidification systems. That’s not even considering the potential hiccups lurking in the construction process or resulting from an inattentive project team member. From the humidity basics to equipment placement to post-occupancy maintenance that can thwart lawsuits, pursue the path to appropriate humidity and minimal risk.
At Walter Reed National Military Medical Center, the mission was an air handling overhaul without interrupting the usual delivery of care. The project team delivered a safer, upgraded environment via a new desiccant system, air handlers, increased flexibility in the surgical suites, and more.
Air changes in some but not all spaces, duct liner here but not necessarily there, rooftop unit requirements … do the rounds and get a feel for the current condition of ASHRAE Standard 170, Ventilation of Health Care Facilities.
Located in the South End of Boston, Boston Medical Center (BMC) is composed of over 2.5 million sq ft of inpatient, ambulatory care, and medical office space.