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GAGES ceaersroonsf) MYSON IT] a SContents
3 — Best practices for industial boiler feechater systems
40 —ClearFire®-CE: Heat Tansfer Done Right
11 — Total System Efficiency: Condensing Boiler System
Myth Busting
24—MEP Giants annual design revenue rises, bucking
certain trends:
27 —Wector $2
28 — iVector $2 Series: a hydronic fan convector unit with
intelligent cooling & heating capability
32 — Back to basics: Introduction to dedicated outdoor
air systems
‘42 —P-K Educational Series: Pump to boiler integration
43 — Case Study: Education — Texas A&M Rellis Campus
146 — What do you need to know about designing HVAC systems
in data centers?
55 — Ice Heating: Reimagine electric heating
86 — Heating with Ice
70 — How to design sustainable HVAC systems
norcccen |
menenee) [eran A | OresBest practices for industrial
boiler feedwater systems
Learn the proper method to deliver pumped condensate to a deaerator in an
industrial-size steam boiler system
clr feedvater isthe single most important system in the boiler house, and at its
hears the deserator. The dezerator combines treated makeup water and conden:
sate and using low-pressure steam, removes dissolved oxygen and other noncondens-
able gases by raising the fui tothe saturation temperature
No revelations here; however, the method by which returned condensate is delivered
can greatly affect the desired steady state system operation
We normally encounter high-pressure (HP] condensate fom the traps on the steam
lines and pumped condensate returned fram the users throughout the steam dist
bution system, The high-pressure condensate gets delivered directly tothe steam
space in the storage section where it flashes into steam and liquid atthe lower oper.
ating pressure
Pumped condensate has slready cooled below saturation tempereture and has been
expoted to air in vented receivers so it must passthrough the deserating section
with the makeup water see Figure 1), Condensate is normally collected in 8 surge
tani in the boiler house from the distribution system, then pumped into the deoer:
stor, but needs to be delivered in a contolled manner, otherwise the deserator will
experience pressure fluctuations and flashing ofthe store liquid. Figure 1 wil high-
light these effects.Best practices for industrial boiler feedwater systems
Boiler system
calculations
Consider 2150
pounds per square
inch gauge (psi)
system, dasigned
00.00
pounds per hour
(PPA) of saturated
stoam, with adie
bution system that
return 50% oft
steam as condensate
seid 9 deserter op Fe pc Sc Sow
ating at 10 psig. The deserator mass and energy Jeerm Coun Coa bah
balance yield steam few rte of ~11,100 FPHT
ven those conditions
10 delve
‘This calculated flow would be considered the average design rate; however, a= one of
ry mentors would say, when you place one foot in a bucket of ice water and the other
ina bucket of boling water the “average" is fino but you wil lose both feet. To un-
derstand how the system will operate, we need to look at the maximum and minimum
events of an on/off cycle of a "pumped down” condensate delivery system
Performing the mass and eneray balance with ne pumped condensate flowing, the
steam required atthe deaerator is ~16,900 PPHT and then only ~6,200 PPH2 wienBest practices for industrial boiler feedwater systems
pumping down the surge tank, but now consider this happens suddenly when the float
sctuates the pump and the corresponding reactions
‘The system is operating, the condensate pump is off and then the float activates the
pump, We are suddenly presented with too much steam flow resulting in a pressure
spike inthe deaerator until the steam control reacts to the excessive change, A minute
or 80 later, we get the sudden pressure drop, when the condensate flow is sbruptly|
stopped and the makeup water flow inzeases again 3,100 back to 16,900 PPH) requir:
ing a rapid increase in steam flaw to maintain pressure, This osc
tinualy with» frequency depending on the loed, surge tank and pump sizes
“The intial pressure spike at reduced steam loads willbe less intense then at full load,
however ail significant for deserstor operation. In this half load case the steam flow
will oscillate from ~8,530 to ~5,600 PPH3 between the condensate pump being off and
‘then turned on. This s then followed by a second pressure spike when the pump turns
cf due tothe increased storage volume and no immadiate need for makeup water
flow, Very lite steam is required until the storage level alls sufciently to require the
‘makeup water valve to again begin flowing. Note thatthe condensate pump delivers
the same mage tothe deaerator regardless of currant steam demand requirements,
Deaerator pressure swings
“The continual pressure swings depicted can have a long-lasting negative effect on
the entire bole system. The pressure swings can cause system piping to shake and
liquid to fash inthe storage section leading to support isues and cavitation in boiler
feedwater pumps. Adkitionaly, the pilot operated self-reguating type steam pressure
reducing vales usually employed wil experience premature diaphragm feilures underBest practices for industrial boiler feedwater systems
these conditions
and are unable to
respond effectively
with these ype of
pressure swings.
‘The fallowing rem
ey (Figure 2} om.
ploys the additions
of contrl vale,
restriction orice
(RO), level trans:
:
|
os Hu
1
fe
mitter and indica SRR SRS ee
torinto anexising nn 7
condensate system. . )
Instead of onfoft -
control pump runs continuously and the contol valve Fave 2: Suge tak modes
operates proportionally between closed atthe pumps NP. Conny COMSmih
SHR and 100% open ot just below the overfiow.
‘This operation wil allow for a continual condensate flow to the deserator, roughly
equal to what is being returned and thereby maintain the deaerators desired steady
‘state conditions. The pump is protected against dead head flow by the RO and ve
{quires no operator interaction other than manually switching the operating pump to
clsvibute operating hours and maximize pump lifeSystem eaeulations ni
tbe performed at the
minimum load conditions
10 properly defines
teria for the steam pres
sure reducing and make
up water ow contol
valves. Don't be surprised
if multiple steam vals
are required to properly
ter conditions when the
steam ie alzo being used
36. heating source, Hav
ing encountered this seenerio multiple times, the solution
presented ie cost-effective retrofit with minimal impact inkaip nto con
te operations when being installed and commissioned.
Moss belance'
STM + CRIHP) + CRIP) + MU ~ BFW
STM + 25 + 50,000 + MU = 102,000
mu-
1,975 - STMROELUE Ce cD so0o5, scx
Pere M atte lalg b+ MU"h, = BF
STM * (1196.2)
(60.000 * 148) + 61975—
13 = 102,000" 207.9
STM *(1196.2) + (51.975-STMI*
STM = 11,090
Mu = 40,885
Legend
STM ~10psig steam reduced
from the 150 psig saturated
steam header
CCRIHP)- High-pressure conde
sate returns directly from the 150
od staam iBest practices for industrial boiler feedwater systems
CRIP) ~ Pumped condensate returned vis atmosphere vented condenssterecehies)
MU- Makeup water
FW Boiler feedwater at 10 psig saturated
hac Specie enthaly (xitsh thermal uit)
Note: When pumped condensate exceeds BFW requirements, MU is zero and the BFW
mass equation is substituted into the heat balance equation ta solve for STM,
1. Assumptions: 28 boller continuous blowdown (CBD), 25 PPH HP condensate,
180°F pumped condensate, 45°F makeup water and no heat loss
2, Same concitions 9 above except pumped condensate flow is nealy doubled
(93,000 PPH) to pump down the receiver
3. Some concitions 2s ebowe excep 50,000 PFH steam demand end 33 CBD,
Kevin Montesano, PE, PMP
Kevin Montesano, PE, PME isan associate and senior project manager &t CDM Smith,
He has more than 35 years of experience with industrial size fos fueled power plants
and their ancillary support and dlstribution systems.' DELIVERING
IP TO
99%
EFFICIENCY
ClearFire®-CE: Heat Transfer Done Right
The ClearFire®.CE, or CFC-E, is Cleaver-Brooks latest generation
of compact, high-mass, fully condensing boilers delivering up to
99% efficiency. Combining the patented TurboFer® heat exchanger
technology with industry-leading controls and burner, the CFC-E ie
the mast efficent condensing boiler solution on the marketTotal System
Efficiency:
Condensing
Boiler System
Myth Busting
eee aac
Seas i
Tic acinny serv goes have been
tobelieve that condensing boilers do not fit design
application. Most of these reasons are inaccurete 48 con:
densing boilers can be uted in most applications where
4 standard, non-condensing bail
these reasons may have been valid for older, non-condens-
ing boiler systems, but for condensing boilers, many of
these concerns have been eliminated,
be used, Some of
‘Also, within the condensing boiler segment, there area
variety of technologies available. Some condensing boilers
require more maintenance than others, orhave specific
piping, pumping, and flow requirements. High-mass fre
tube condensing boilers have been developed to over
‘come many ofthese obstacles and can be piped in va-
riety of systems with success. Therefore, tis important to
Understand each boilers’ operating requirements, 25 wal
astotal cost of ow ion
ship, when making a boilers
MYTH #1 - We need to maintain 180°F
hot water supply for the system to work
Prior to condensing bolls, twa
tobe detgned wih high hot water supply temperatures
inthe range of 180° 10 200°F One ofthe main purposes
-ommon for systems
‘of the high hot water temperature was to saisy the hot
water return temperature back tothe boilers since higherTotal System Efficiency: Conden:
ing Boiler System Myth Busting
hot water supply temperature results in higher hot water return temperature deliv
fered back tothe boiler In non-condensing boilers, the hot wate retumn temperature
is critical, a the water temperature must always be maintained above the condensing
‘temperature ofthe fue gases to protact the heat exchanger.
Like non-condensing boiler systems, in condensing boiler systems, a lower hat water
supply temperature eaults in slower ht water return temperature delivered back to
the boiler. The difference with a condensing boiler is that hot water return tompera:
‘ute isthe driving force behind condensing boiler efficiency. In condensing boilers,
the goalis to generate
ae possible because Aiton 0c oot
the heat exchangers (aaa 7 a
constructed of a corro: [wage om cor
sion-esistant material
uch as stainios steel or aerneun ser ser
aluminum specific to this [Pe*Fate cd cd
application. addition [AtPrssow oe eens Semis)
tothe hor water rerun [Waterss re Err ame
temperatures, coils ean [Rom o 7
also be designed to sat
isfy the load based on varying hot water tem- ‘ile Canpanor of eating cit
peratures, Table 1 demonstrates this point by eee
comparing 2 main heating col, sypicaly found
in an air handling unit, selactad ta do the same duty for both 180°F and 140*F hot
water supply temperatures witha respective temperature diference of 40°F to satisfyTotal System Efficiency: Condensing Boiler System Myth Busting
the total heating capaci
ty required. In both cas-
fs, the coil provides the
‘same output, in MBH, to
the heat airwith minor
differences in coil charac
8
“Take note of existing sere mete
systems that were de
signed for 180°F hot water supply temperature. With an Char Hot ster tempestie
existing system, the designer is typically stuck with the ‘eeu ousor ar terpaahe
isting coils sized per the original design. Despite this,
2 condensing boil is still an aption, but care must be taken to ensure the hot water
supply temperature at any given time will meet the load conditions required, With all
‘things being equal, owerhet water supply temperatures wll requie more heat-rans-
fer surface area to meet the same load. This point is demonstrated in Table 1 asthe
ceil selected for 140°F hot water supply temperature has more ns compared to the
coil selected for 180°F hot water supply temperature. With that being said, many coils
are oversized to some extent because upgrades to buildings have improved the!
envelope characteristics and leakage rates overtime, so less heat output typically
needed. This meons there is potentially the ability to operate the building the majority
ofthe year atthe reduced water temperatures or atthe very least, be able to operate
with more aggressive hot water reset strategies while improving system efficiencyTetal System Efficiency: Conclensing Boiler System Myth Busting
MYTH #2 - We need to maintain a 20°F system AT
Myth #2 similar to myth #1 in that older systems typically maintain a low AT in order
+10 keep the hot water return temperature above condensing conditions In condensing
systems, temperature diferente of 30°F or higher can be designed to incease boiler
eliciency by lowering the hot water return temperature back tothe boiler Increasing
the temperature diferential berween the supply and etuen water has the added ben:
tft of reducing the low rate since the flow rate is related tothe overall heat output of
the col. Therefore, the higher the AT, the lower the flow rate, which results in smaller
pumps, less horsepower required te move the fluid, smaller piping, and other system
benefits
MYTH #3 - Hot water reset doesn’t work
Hot water reset involves resetting the hot water supply temperature besed on outside
sir conditions. The theory behind rsetting the hot water aupply temperature is that a8
the outside air eemperature inceases from the design condition, the amount of heat
required to satisly the space load decreases. Similarly, asthe space load decreases,
itis also possible to heat the space with 2 hot water supply temperature less than the
design condition, which uses lass energy to heat the water to a lower set point.
Hot water resetis a simple control svategy that has been used for many years on hot
ator systoms witha lot of success. With condensing boilers, the hot water rest func-
tionality based on outside aris generally built-in, making this a relatively low of no-
costitem to implement within the systom. Reset strategies have also been used on
supply air and cil
tare aware ofthe design intent and goal of resetting system temperatures. The one
item that should be understood regarding hot water reset is that there are conditions
1d water systems for years, s0 designers, operators, and contractorsTetal System Efficiency: Condensing Boiler System Myth Busting
where resetting the hot water supply tempersture will require addtional low to satily
the load. In this scenario, hot water rest is less afficient as the addtional pump eneray
required to move the fluid costs more than the eneray benefits received from resating
the water temperature, so ths condition should be aveided.
MYTH #4 - Variable-flow-primary systems are more complex
Hot woter systems ate generally known for using primary seconday systems, which
became the norm as non-condensing boilers cannot handle variable flow to maintain
hot water retuin temperatures above condensing conditions. In primaty-secondaty ss
‘tems, primary ow is maintained 28 constant low rate, which keeps the return water
may from potentially resting « condensing opportunity forthe fue gases.
‘As forthe argument that variable lowprimary systems are more complicated, there
are many installations that demonstrate primary-secondary systems ae ust as cor
plicated, For example, installations that havea check vale in the comman pipe. The
check valve typically is used as a post-design solution ana system that has dificulty
‘supplying hot water tothe system where the primary-loop, or boile-loop, flow rate is
leas than the secondary loop, or distribution loop. Thi candition creates mixing and
provides a hot water temperature less than that created by the boilers. It eliminates
‘ree, bi-directional ow in the common piping, which is the main objective of a prim
ry secondary system.
In actuality, varable-foweprimatysystams ae simplar than primary-sacondlary systems
235 variable-flow- primary systams only require one set of pumps to handle everything
in the system. Also, thre is no mixing due to two hydraulically separate pumping
loops and less equipment is required, so there are fewer devices to control. In variTotal System Efficiency: Condensing Boiler System Myth Busting
able-ow-primary systems, here ae three items that must be addressed for proper
system operation. The rat item is afl meter that can measure the water fow rate
to the dnribution system. in many designs, hiss common practice for measurement
nd verifeation or for owners who are interested in racking the energy consurntion,
50 it may aready be part ofthe design. The second item is a minimum-fow bypass
with a modulating two-way tomperature contol vale, which she same conto vai
st al the heating colle in the astm These ta items workin parallel wth one another
2 the fl matar ensues minimum fw 0 the boilers andor pumps is always main
tained, thus protecting the equipment. Many condensing boilers have ver low- ot
no-mirimum fw requirements, but you should very this withthe manufacurer ab the
lower the minimum flow theless bypassing that wll occur
(Once the minimum flow is de
rrined, the control lagic forthe minimum-low bypass
is to modulate the twosway contro valve to meet the minimum flow rate of ether the
boiler or pump,
‘which bypasses
the system and
returns to the bol
ers and pumps as
“shown in Figure 1
“The minimumtlow
bypass concept is
commonly used
in today’ system
designs andis very
similar to thee Poe: rin emp conta fic in
vara fow pinay apoTotal System Efficiency: Condensing Boiler System Myth Busting
\way valves in constant volume systems that reduce flow rate through the coil whan the
space is at reduced capacity, thereby bypassing excess low around the coll and main
taining a constant flow rate atthe coil
“The third ter thats required in a variable-fow-primaty system is another twounay.
‘temperature control valve at each boiler when there are multiple boilers operating in
parallel, This control vale i¢ a two:position isolation control valve that remains closed
‘when the boilers off and opens when the boiler ison. Like the hot water eset con=
trols that are builtin to most condensing baller, this is alzo typically a function that
the boiler contols can perform, if desived by the designer. The purpose of the con
‘wol vale is to prevent flo thzough the boiler when the boilers of, which results in
bypassing and mixing with reduced hot water supply temperatures. Based on these
‘thiee items as described, thare are no additional components required for 8 var-
able-loweprimary system. Similar, al ofthese items ae typically used ina system in
{some farm already either for coil contol or measuring system fw, which limits the
need to understand naw control algorithms ar special sequences,
MYTH #5 — Reverse return helps balancing
Piping detibution systems that deliver water to the system heating cols are designed
ting ane of two strategie, either cect relum or revere return, Dectetum systems
operate onthe principle that heft colin the distbution path closet to the boler
plant wil alsa be the fst cll to return the water to the llr pant. Because ofthis,
te piping isrbution and coresponding pressure dop for this coli typically much
tess than th last collon the datibution network, Asa resut the low rate to the coll
isnot properly balanced to have a pressure crop that effectively matches the other
call cout, lage percentage ofthe system flow wll ake the path of east resistance,Total System Efficiency: Condensing Boiler System Myth Busting
coverfiowing the closer coils and sta
ing the cols at the end of the piping
Reverse return is 2 concept that
volved to solve the problem with
liectoturn systems, Ina teverse-e
tur configuration, the fist coil toe
ceive water from the central plant is
designed to be the last col to return
water to the central plant. In theory,
‘this equalizes the distance the water bE
is pumped when distibuted in the
piping network and attempts to cre-
se a relatively equal pressure drop —
for each cil circu. Figure 2 shows —_v
an example of direct-eturn com
pated to 2 reverse-return system forthe distribu: Faxee2 Drecretmconpared 03
tion system. ‘ovosevete ping coniurton
‘The reverse-oturn piping configuration suggests that balancing can be significantly re.
duced or eliminated. Unfortunately, this doesnot work a8 wel in theory 98 each col i
cuithas varying pipe sees with clilferent flow rates and dissimilr water pressure crops
at each coll For a typical system consisting of multiple aichandling unit coils with high
flow rates and large pipe sizes mixed with VAV box reheat coils and terminal unit heat
ing coils with smaller pipe sizes, each cicut will be completely diferent sobsTotal System Efficiency: Condensing Boiler System Myth Busting
will stil be required Therefore, reverse return doesn’ sole the issue itis designed to
correct. Another disadvantage ofa reverse-retur piping system is tht it takes the de
signer twice as long to design since both loops are diferent anc! must be sized based
con the flow in the pipe at any given point inte system.
(One negative that is commonly
cited for both systems is their
limited expansion. Depend.
ing on the method of pipe
Sizing recommended by the
designer, those systems can
have no or very litle capacity
for expansion, The tut isthe
sizing of pipes dictates the ex
pansion capacity, not the fect
that a dlrect- or reverseetumn
piping configuration is used,
‘A adltional argument tht is typically made Piguet Revessvenm ping coniguaon|
bout everse retunis that there are conditions 20 fom whee everett
where revere etumn ino more dfeuitte do “Trin etimcanaeedindincreum
‘om 8 piping layout. For example, as shown in Figure 3, a building has @ piping shat
in the middle ofthe building and piping ean be routed in a revere return around! the
loot. This configuration would be the only potentially recommended condition to use
‘reverse return on the distribution piping as no additional piping is requied. Despite
‘this, it stil takes twice the time to size all the piping, The piping crcuts will not be
ent since all he cols and flow rates are not the same, and only the floor will be
equTotal System Efficiency: Condensing Boiler System Myth Busting
reverse return unless 2 third riser pipe is used inthe shaft to create a complete reverse
retum systom, which increases frst cos. Regardless of the method used, itis important
to note that balancing will always be required to some extent.
(One time where reverse return could potentially pay offis when the equipment, ow
rates, and pipe sizes are exactly the same, like in a boiler plant whore there are mul
tiple similarsized units, However, under this coneition, the piping typically is much
larger than inthe distribution system, and the relative relationship ofthis equipment is
420 close thatthe equivalent length between individual devices is negligible, So, re
verse retin still doesnt provide the value and would only be recommended if it ean
be done without adding pipe length or addtional design time
MYTH #6 - Hot water supply temperature is important for
efficiency in condensing boilers
Hot water supply temperature is part ofthe equation in defning heating coil sizing,
but itis not the defining point of determining a boilers efficiency. As eferenced pre-
viously, boiler efcieney is dictated by the hot wate rtum temperature since the
amount of condensation that occurs in the heat exchanger depends on the tempers
ture ofthe water compared tothe fue gas temperature. Hot water supply temperature
will almost avays be above the condensing point ofthe fue gases, whereas the retum
‘water ithe fd that comes inst contact with the fue gee, cating them to below
the fue gas dew point, causing condensing and recovery ofthe latent heat rom the
‘moisture inthe fue g8, which creatas the efficiency gains as shown in Figure 4 Fur
‘thermore, Figur 5 proves that hot water supply temperatures do not dictate efcincy,
as hot water supply temperatures are nomhere tobe seen onthe efcioncy chart a hot
water retutn temperatures determine efclency based on bil fring rats, demon:Condensing Boiler
tating the lower the return water temperature the higher the efficiency that can be
realized by the system,
MYTH #7 - Condensing boilers are more difficult to service
and require more frequent service
Condensing boilers do net require any more service or maintenance compared to
a standard boiler nd
heat exchanger Acon- -
densng boiler consists
ofastainiesssteelor gam oi
aluminum heat exchang-
or that provides more
resistance to changing
water temperatures as xno
compared toa standard, —r
non-condensing bol
on where the operating
temperatures, especially
the return water tem: Fre Te hot aterm
Perea, are extremelyimporent.ntheon though feos nacre
a condensing bor due tots overall robustness, Due guusecimnrconarnsin cars
to iteconsttution, a condensing boiler wl last longer ‘th ovr vate
than a non-condensing boiler f proper water chemistry
and maintenance is performed, some condensing boilers are built to last longer than &
non-condensing bole.
itis not cecommended, less care could be provided toTotal System Efficiency: Condensing Boiler System Myth Busting
foe Single Return Etfilency ae a Function of
(One area that filcloncy 20
require mare attention
in a condensing boiler is
the condensate drain. It
needs tobe checked to
ensure the neutralization
Kits in working order
“The neutralization kit is
on acid neutralizes that
increases the pH ofthe a :
condensate to a neutral ele ee ew
condition prior to dis
charge othe dain. The
neutralization media is owe Boe
located within a bag that shouldbe checked regularly to ensure nian
theres enough medi to ful neutalize the condensate. When “=e
the media has expired, replacement is necessary and involves
ciscarding the old media and replacing it with new mela, a tak that can be complet:
1d in less than five minutes. Condensate neutralizes ean be purchased from the bolle
‘manufacturer, and iis important to ensure there is enough neutralizer based on the
bollercopecity, which dictates the amount of condensate produced
‘There are most likely more myths that exist for condensing boiler systems, but as
explained, condensing boilers are not more dificult to desiga, install, r service
compared to non-condensing boilers. In fac, the opposites vue for high-mass com:Boiler System Myth
lensing boilers, which are
generally more robust and
require less attention. Systems
can be designed for virually
any hot water temperature
and AT provided a cal ean
be sized 10 provide the ap-
propriate output at accept
able ir and waterpressure
chops to maintain system
ficiency Similary, hot water
reset drives down hot water
return temperatures, which
ithe main driver in system efcioncy as more Fue gas- Fou Example cfcondote
1 210 allowed to condense with lower hot water return revtlzaton mess
temperatures, Finally variable-loweprimary systems with
direct etum should be considered the new paradigm since their system design is more
straightforward ond shortens design time,MEP Giants annual design revenue
rises, bucking certain trends
While the economy sits at a slow burn, the 2023 MEP Giants firms continue
to do well
he 2023 MEP Giants generated $11.96 billion in mechanical, electrical, plumb-
ing (MEP) and fie protection engineering design revenue, an increase over last
year’s MEP Giant’ revenue of $11.01 billion, This year, the 2023 MEP Giants earned
approximately $47.46 billion in gross annual revenue during the previous fiscal year,
8 decrease of 4%. Gross revenue wae down, however MEP design revenue rose 9%
over last year’s numbers.
Register and download the 2023 MEP Giants eBook, sponsored by Eaton,
Noticeably absent from the top 10 was AECOM, a regular to this list. There were also
some newcomers to the total of 100 companies, Several companies either joined the
list forthe frst time or returned aftr time away from reporting data (in alphabetical
order): AMA Group; Bard, Rao + Athanas Consulting Engineers LLC: Burdette, Koehl
Murphy & Associates Inc; Cleary Zimmermann Engineers LLC; The Enginaering En
prise; Interface Engineering inc; Kimley-Horn; LEO A DALY; and Lizardos Engineering
Associates
‘The list this year comprises 54% private companies (down from 59% in 2022), 28% em
ployeo-owned companies, 9% public companies and 9% limited:lailty companies,
“The 2023 MEP Giants ate made up of consulting engineering firms (63%, up from 60%
last year) and architectural engineering fms (29%, even with last yearMEP Giants annual design revenue rises, bucking certain trends
Several mergers and acquisitions eccurre in the past year 26% ofthe fis reporting
acquired another company, a slight dip fom lst year’s 29% acquisition rate
“Table 1 shows the top fms based on MEP design revenue, which is how the MEP Gi-
ants ate ranked
MEP design revenue
‘Amara Rozgus and Amanda MeLeman
Amara Rozgus, Féitorin-Chiel, and Amanda
MeLeman, Dicector of Research, Consulting
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pump o* @ separate cooling source, the iVECTOR S2 can
‘offer both heating and cooling functions, making it a per:
fect solution for both commercial, multifamily and single
family residential use.IVECTOR $2 SERIES: a hydronic fan convector unit with intelligent cooling
Built with flexibility in mind
‘With Necor $2 all bout design flexi, Installation options include bth surface
mounting aswel a bitin options (valor cling). Controls are avaiable in ether
enboard or remote option, along with solutions fr fully autonomous contra, 0-10Y
control for BMS aysters or xed fan speed control. With a choice of ether 2pipe or
‘pipe heat exchanger, NectorS2 avilable in 5cifferent sizes so specifers won't
have 2 problem finding an Nectr 82 model to meet ther projects needs
Combining Mector 52 wth other low temperature systems, for example hydronic
panel radiators or a radiant system, provides an ideal combination for optimum in
‘door climate comfort all yer long. The iVECTOR 52s also the perfect solution for
rooms notin regular use such as guest rooms or hoblby zooms thanks to rapid heat
up end cool-down times,
Modern/Slimline Design
\With inspiration from leading Italian designers, the aesthetically pleasing Vector $2
slimline design allows for discreet positioning without compromising performance
Whether tbe wall or eng mounted, ora recessed/bultin installation, Nectar S2 wil
blend into its envionment seamlessly. For maximum design flexibility, ll easings and
ailles can be produced in virally ary RAL color (standard is RAL. 9003)
Controls with a high IQ for smart buildings
“The heart ofthe Mector 52 its ingenious and highly accurate conto with PID logie
and specialy designed algorithms that intelligently drive optimal performance al
year long. Combined witha high eficiency DC fan motor, the result is desl comfort
and energy ficiencyIVECTOR $2 SERIES: a hydronic fan convector unit with intelligent cooling
User interface flexibility
‘Whether selecting the intuitive onboard SmarTouch user interface or the remote wall
mounted SmarTouch usr interface, specflers have choles when specivng Vector
£2. The onboard contol i capable of controling a single nit while the remote Smar-
Touch can conta upto 20 similarly equipped Wector SZ units. these solutions arent
pti, then Vector 52 canbe ted (ldo facto with the avaliable 0OV cont
board for use with suitable party thermostats or BMS systems
Performance versatility
iWector $2 avilable in either a 2pipe or &-pipe version with standard connections on
the lef side ofthe unit fed o factory changeable o right side). Depending upon unt
size, heating outputs range from 7,S41 bruh to 32,552 bruh at 174/167/480F (221 KW
9.54 kW at 80/78/2000, Tota sensible cooling ranges from 3.106 bruh to 12659 btuh
38 45/54/81OF (O9TRW—3.71KW at 7/12/270C). Al values at high fan speed
Consider Vector $2 for your next project and enjoy all of these benefts;
+ High heat outputs at low system temperatures
‘The IVECTOR S2 provides high outputs in low-temperature heating systems idea
in combination with heat pumps!
+ Fast, responsive heat-up times
“The IVECTOR S2 has considerably less water content than conventional panel rac
‘2102s low thermal mass ensures fast heat-up tines ond efficient operationIVECTOR $2 SERIES: a hydronic fan convector unit with intelligent cooling
+ Cooling
Cooling is possible with the IMECTOR $2 when connected toa reversible heat
pump ora separate chilled water source
+ Intaligent control
‘The IVECTOR S2is equipped with an intelligent control system. allows easy op-
eration and integration with other building management systems
+ Whisper quiet operation
‘The latest in modulating fan technology offers the best heat output wth the lowest
imaginable noise level
+ Space-saving installation
“Thanks tots compact dimensions the VECTOR 52 provides high heating and
‘cooling performance with minimal size
MYSON isa brand of Purmo Group {ww purmogroup.com) ands one ofthe oldest
and most respected names in the HVAC industry. We have been manulecturing fan
convectors for over 50 years. With 2 reputation for maximizing the role of innovation
and technology in our operations, we are committed to helping reduce CO? emissions
by developing energy efficient heating and cooling products that are capable of oper
ating effectively at low fow temperatures,
Contact us today to for complete information about Vector $2 including madel speci.
cations submittals, Vector 52 performance metrics end more,Back to basics: Introduction to
dedicated outdoor air systems
‘Outdoor air is an important component of a building's overall health
and well-being
cost building codes require mechanical ventilation with few exceptions. Many
building eccupancy types require large volumes of outdoor air Dedicated out
dloor air ystems [DOAS) provide 100% fresh outdoor air te» building or pace, Unike
traditional heating, ventilation and air conditioning (HVAC) systems, which usualy rece
culate airinside the building, DOAS units bringin outdoor ar and condition it before
clsvibuting i throughout the building
DOAS usually rn alongside other HVAC equipment serving the building or space
+20 meet the need for outdoor air. Where traditional cooling and heating equipment
can't meet latent loads, special equipment is needed, increasing costs and space
requirements
‘According to the ASHRAE Handbook 2020: Heating, Ventilating and Air Conditioning
Systems and Equipment, DOAS can help bridge that gap by centralizing the conditions
ofthe outdoor air and in some cases incorporating an energy recovery ventilator (ERY)
Benefits of DOAS
[Although the main reason fr using @ DOAS unit isto meet minimum ventilation re
quirements, these systems also provide other benafits. Conditioning the outdoor air
separately from recirculated air makes it easier to verify that each zone is being provid-
ed with sufficient outdoor atBack to basics: Introduction to dedicated outdoor air systems
=» »
DOAS a improve indoor a usty (AO) by fering Fg Tagen
‘cutdoor air contaminants before dispersing the fresh air — trator
tooctpied paces DOAS ni ave as efectve dens. ™MMEOSDnt cna
midifiers, DOAS units can help keep building pressurized
propery This ean prevent unwanted adors, moisture and impurities fom entering the
building through infiltration, Because DOAS units can handle larger latent loads, other
local or central HVAC units can be reduced in size to just handle the buildings sensible
load, Preconditioning outdoor air at the OOAS unit can alko lead to significant energy
‘savings, which ean lead to monetary savings when implemented correctly
“The requirements for ventilation rates by building codes and other standards are the
‘main driving factors for installing DOAS. With the growing popularity of DOAS to meet
ventilation needs, these systams are provided by various manufacturers andl suppliers
Manufacturers are beginning to provide an array of configurations that meet diferent
design needs,
“The type of equipment used with @ OAS unit may vary depending on building type,
spatial constraints and enduuser needs. The benefit of a DOASis that it unlike lat ofBack to basics: Introduction to dedicated outdoor air systems
cther HVAC equipment, can meet these high ventilation rate requirements,
Different DOAS types and configurations
OAS unis are provided by several manufocturer inthe HVAC indus. These manu:
factrersofe units in multiple configuration such a a split option or packaged. The
salt options composed of en indoor unit witha remote condenser. The packaged op
tons are slcontsined and located outside ona building’ fof er on a concrete slab
on the round. Hydronic DOAS units can be installed within» bulding with outdoor ai
clcte tothe exterior through a louver.
OAS units are designed to accommodete a dverse range of entering ar conditions,
ranging ftom the hottest summer days tothe coldest winter nights, Units can temper
the outdoor air using different methods, The system configuration types include water
source heat pumps, ar source heat pumps, water-cooled direct expansion, ai-cooled,
dliect expansion or chilled water These configuration options are chosen based on
client site utilities, client preference and even an energy models least-cost estimates.
Manufacturers also provide customization options for OOAS units. Cabinets can be
‘outfitted with insulated foam to recice heat transfer losses and corrosion-tesistant
costings to withstand challenging environments, There is algo the option to provide
human machine interface, which allows a simpler way to program diffrent unit setings
such as temperature and humidity
‘The DOAS unit typically cools and dehumiifes air inthe summer and humidifias and
heats air in the winter, The most basic unit consists ofa preheating cil, 2 cooling esl
2 reheating cal and » humidifier. DOAS units can aleo be provided with a wide range.Back to basics: Introduction to dedicated outdoor air systems
cof additional components to meet specific design needs and climate conditions. The
below outlines common equipment components:
DOAS unite come standard with supply fans and also
can be equipped with an optional exhaust fan and/or heat recovery component. Pl
rum supply fans ara also common in DOAS applications
Variable-speed drives or electronically commutated motors (ECM). Fans equipped
with ECMs offer 10: turndown, This allows for fan speed reduction as ventilation
needs vary. Variable speed compressors allow forthe DOAS unit to adjust its heating
and cooling capacity to match the raquied load, In doing ths, the unit provides a con-
sistent temperature throughout the space and avoids large temperature swings
Cooling modules. Cooling modiles ae useful for cooling and/or dehumidlfying out
door sit
Heating modules. When 2 space requires heat greater than what the base unt can
provide, DOAS units can be provided with electricity, notural gas, iquelied petroleum
{9 (propane), steam or hot water as 2 hesting source. The heating systems have mult
ple options for control including multistage, slicon-controlled ectifier or modulating
Humidifiers. DOAS units canbe fitted with humidifiers to be used during the dey out
door conditions to bring moisture into the at, providing greater occupant comfort
Hot gat reheat. Manufacturers offer hot gas reheat options on their units for deh
‘ideation purposes. On a mile but humid day when air needs tobe dehumiaied,Back to basics: Introduction to dedicated outdoor air systems
the only way to remove moisture isto cool the ait Te avoid creating cold clammy air
ifitis not warm enough, this addtional option allows cooled, dehumiified arto be
heated to a more comfortable temperature, providing neutral dry ai. Heating and heat
recovery of ar above 40°F in DOAS units that provide ventilation arto multiple zones
and operate in conjunction with zone heating and cooling systems when building loads
or euside ar temperature indicate the majority of zones are in cooling is prohibited
by ASHRAE Standard 90:1: Energy Standard for Buildings Except Low-Rise Residential
Buildings. In other words, heated “room neutral” air from a DOAS can cause energy
‘waste when downstream units must recoo it to meet zone temperature setpoint
o-air energy recovery devices. Energy recovery for these units is typically ato
thalpy wheels, aluminum enthalpy wheels
air This can be provided through poly
cor enthalpy plate heat exchangers. Energy is recovered when two streams of ar —
‘roth air and return air — pase through the eneray recovery device and transfer mois-
ture and heat from one ar souree tothe other
Filters and other cleaning deviees. Ai purty can be improved through diferent Fl
tration options provided for uit including MERV 8,11 or 14 fers; metal mesh ters
or some manufacturers even offer bipolar ionization. Bipolar ionization systems gen-
erate positively and negatively charged particles to help HVAC systems remove them
‘om the airsteam,
‘Space/bullding air temperature and humidity sensor. This component helps in mon
itoring the air temperature and humidity within a space or building and i available in
various measurements, which include, outdoor, discharge, space and return humility
and air temperature measures.Back to basics: Introduction to dedicated outdoor air syste
Unit configurations.
Unit orientations €an enor
be modifiad ta meet
space requirements
hiss especially use enw
{ul in retoft applica
‘ions where available
spaces imited. Man: oo
vfacturers typically
allow either vertical
Fee 2 Th geo roa
corhorizontal supply air discharge placement and __arangemart as dees a
‘vertieal, horizontal or no retunairarrangements, se DOAS an conten mth
(baling pace. Courtesy: COM Smth
\When designing a building's HVAC system, the
engineer or designer may opt to provide multiple smaller units to have more zone con
trollabilty in eu of single, large unis,
Air distribution
OAS units con be integrated with almost ary type of heating and caoling system
design. DOAS units are often used in canjunction with fan coil units, variable air
volume (VAN) systems, variable refrigerant flow systems ar packaged terminal air
conditioners
In any configuration type, the DOAS selection would consider the outdoor ar and latent
loads forthe building andthe local equipment would be sized for each space’ sensible
loads. This allows fora reduction inthe local equipment’ sizing because it wll only needBack to basics: Introduction to dedicated outdoor air systems
10_be sited to handle the sensible load generated within the space. One configuration
‘ype ie ducting directly from the DOAS unit to each space tha unit serves
‘Another system configuration forthe DOAS isto duct the outdoor air divectly tothe
retur ofthe local unit, When the DOAS is ducted directly to the return, i allows the
local unit to mix the outdoor air with the recirculated air and condition this mixture
‘The final HVAC system configuration discussed occurs where the DOAS is ducted to
2 celing plenum, closet or mechanical room plenum, which the local unit uses a8 an
intake, This method is tyically not recommended as itis challenging to guarentee that
ach space
ceives its allotted outdoor air requirement.
DOAS Controls
In different design climates, DOAS can provide different modes of operation. For hot
and humid areas, the DOAS unit should run in dehumiaiication and cacling made. In
ether climate zones where ambient conditions are hot and dry, the DOAS unit may anly
need to run in sensible cooling mode. In cold climate areas, the DOAS may need 10
heat the incoming outdoor air in heating mode and provide humidfiation
During cccupied hours, he DOAS may need to run in these diferent operating modes
and provide ventilation ai During unoccupied hours, because ventilation isnot re
quired, the DOAS may only need to provide dehumidificaion to ensure the building
‘stays dy. Ths is done by closing the outdoor air intake damper and just recirculating
retum air to allow it tobe dehumidiied. This contol method reduces wasted eneray
and provides cost savings for the building ower.Pxsous
| eet naan
1 olowesina otha
Code requirements
ASHRAE Standard 621
Ventilation for Acceptable
Indoor Air Quality was fist
published in 1973 and pro-
vides industry standards
for outdoor air require
rents for various occupied
building types and spaces.
ASHRAE Stondard 6216
continuously updating and
evolving to ensure minimum
1AQ is provide for building
eccupants
In some cases, there is
benefit ta providing more
outdoor ato a space than
minimum required by code.
One US. Green Building
Council LEED point ean
be achieved by providing
30% more outdoor air ta
{ech breathing zone than
the minimum required by
[ASHRAE Standard 62.1Back to basics: Introduction to dedicated outdoor air systems
Control mode ‘utdooe condone
Dehumisiention nd colng | Outdoor a dew point > dehumiaicavan st pont
‘Outdoor sr dew pont < dehumifcation set pont
=o Outdoor sir dry-bulb temperature > cooling et point
‘Outdoor ar dew point