Active and Passive Beam

Application Design Guide

This publication was developed under the auspices of ASHRAE Technical Committee
(TC) 5.3, Room Air Distribution. TC 5.3 is concerned with the distribution, diffusion, and
conditioning of air within rooms and similarly treated spaces. It includes consideration
of the principles of air distribution, air diffusion, and performance characteristics of all
types of air terminal devices, fan-coils, chilled beams, and high-/low-pressure
assemblies (boxes) or components, including associated or related accessories for
both supply and extract air.

Editors
John Woollett
Julian Rimmer

Co-Chairs of Authoring Committee

Peter Simmonds, PhD
Darren S. Alexander, PEng
Jonathan Chan
Ken Loudermilk, PE
Chris Lowell
Jonas Akesson
Carlos Lisboa
Rafael Urculo
Maija K. Virta
Thomas Wolters
Risto Kosonen

Reviewers

This book underwent an independent review process before publishing. The following
persons have reviewed the book and made valuable suggestions for improvements:
Birgit Mueller, Germany
Jorma Railio, Finland
Jarek Kurnitski, Estonia
Livio Mazzarella, Italy

Updates/errata for this publication will be posted on the

ASHRAE website at www.ashrae.org/publicationupdates.
 ISBN 978-1-936504-83-1

© 2015 ASHRAE and REHVA

1791 Tullie Circle, NE

Atlanta, GA 30329
www.ashrae.org
Federation of European Heating, Ventilation and Air Conditioning Associations
www.rehva.eu
All rights reserved.
Printed in the United States of America

Cover design by Tracy Becker

ASHRAE is a registered trademark in the U.S. Patent and Trademark Office, owned by the American
Society of Heating, Refrigerating and Air-Conditioning Engineers, Inc.
ASHRAE has compiled this publication with care, but ASHRAE has not investigated, and ASHRAE
expressly disclaims any duty to investigate, any product, service, process, procedure, design, or the like
that may be described herein. The appearance of any technical data or editorial material in this publi-
cation does not constitute endorsement, warranty, or guaranty by ASHRAE of any product, service,
process, procedure, design, or the like. ASHRAE does not warrant that the information in the publication
is free of errors, and ASHRAE does not necessarily agree with any statement or opinion in this publi-
cation. The entire risk of the use of any information in this publication is assumed by the user.
No part of this book may be reproduced without permission in writing from ASHRAE, except by a
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Library of Congress Cataloging-in-Publication Data

Chilled beam application guidebook

Active and passive beam application design guide.
pages cm
Revision of Chilled beam Application Guidebook, published by REHVA, 2004.
This version has I-P units listed first.
Includes bibliographical references and index.
ISBN 978-1-936504-83-1 (softcover) 1. Chilled beams (Air conditioning) I. ASHRAE (Firm) II.
Federation of European Heating and Airconditioning Associations. III. Title.
TH7687.78.C46 2015
697.9'312--dc23
2014043062

REHVA STAFF Cynthia Despradel, Editorial Assistant

Jarkko Narvanne, Graphic Designer

ASHRAE STAFF SPECIAL PUBLICATIONS Mark S. Owen, Editor/Group Manager 

of Handbook and Special Publications
Cindy Sheffield Michaels, Managing Editor
James Madison Walker, Associate Editor
Sarah Boyle, Assistant Editor
Lauren Ramsdell, Editorial Assistant
Michshell Phillips, Editorial Coordinator
PUBLISHING SERVICES David Soltis, Group Manager of Publishing Services
and Electronic Communications
Jayne Jackson, Publication Traffic Administrator
Tracy Becker, Graphics Specialist
PUBLISHER W. Stephen Comstock
 CONTENTS

1 Preface and Acknowledgments 1

2 Terms and Definitions 2
3 Symbols and Units 3
4 Abbreviations 4
5 Introduction 6
6 Comfort 14
7 Passive Beams 16
8 Active Beams 25
9 Primary Airflow Calculation Methodology 35
10 Controls 44
11 Installation and Commissioning 54
12 System Operation 57
13 Energy and Total Cost of Ownership 58
14 References and Bibliography 61
Appendix A: Examples for I-P Applications 64
Appendix B: Examples for SI Applications 89

Excel files for beam calculations

provided online at ashrae.org/beamcalc.
 1 Preface and Acknowledgments

1 PREFACE AND ACKNOWLEDGMENTS

PREFACE
This design guide is a revision of the REHVA Chilled Beam Application Guidebook, which was pub-
lished in 2004. ASHRAE and REHVA decided to collaborate on a revision of the guidebook and
enlisted experts from both organizations to revise the document.
This new guide is aimed at consulting engineers, architects, owners, and contractors who are
involved in the design, operation, and installation of active and passive beam systems.
This book provides tools and guidance to design, commission, and operate active and passive beam
systems to achieve a determined indoor climate. It also presents examples of active and passive beam
calculations and selections. Online tools can be found at ashrae.org/beamcalc.

ACKNOWLEDGMENTS
There are many ASHRAE and REHVA members who should be recognised for their expertise in
realizing this design guide.
The following ASHRAE and REHVA experts should be recognised for their diligent help, guidance
and collaboration in producing this design guide.

ASHRAE REHVA

Julian Rimmer (ASHRAE Chair) John Woollett (REHVA Chair)

Darren Alexander Jonas Åkesson
Ken Loudermilk Carlos Lisboa
Chris Lowell Sawicki Slowomir
Mick Holland Rafael Urculo
Peter Simmonds Maija Virta
Jonathan Chan Thomas Wolters
Risto Kosonen

1
Active and Passive Beam Application Design Guide

2 TERMS AND DEFINITIONS

The following terms and definitions are based on the CEN and ASHRAE standards for testing
and rating of chilled beams. Additional definitions are mainly from the ISSO publication Climatic
Ceilings and Beams: Applications of Low Temperature Heating and High Temperature Cooling (2001).

active beam: a terminal device with an integrated, ducted air supply that induces ambient air through a
hydronic coil for the purpose of transferring sensible heat to/from the space.
dew point: the temperature at which water vapour present in the air begins to condense.
draught: unwanted cooling of the body caused by local air movement.
draught rating (DR-value): the percentage of people predicted to be dissatisfied due to draught.
induced airflow: the secondary airflow from the room induced by the primary air in an active beam.
induction ratio (IR): the volume or mass flow rate of induced air (sum of the primary and secondary
air) divided by that of the primary air. IR equals  Qp + Q s   Qp .
infiltration: the transport of unconditioned air through leakage paths in the envelope of a building,
resulting from pressure (e.g., wind) and temperature differences.
mixed airflow rate: the total airflow rate (primary plus induced) of the mixture supplied from the beam
to the space.
mean radiant temperature: the theoretical uniform temperature of a room in which the radiant
exchange between the human body and its environment is the same as the radiant exchange in the actual
location.
passive beam (static beam): the cooled element or cooling coil fixed in, above, or under a ceiling fitted
with a cooling coil, that cools mainly convectively, using natural airflows. The cooling medium is usu-
ally water.
primary airflow rate: conditioned air supplied to an active beam through a duct from the air-handling
unit.
room air temperature: the average of air temperatures measured at 3.61 ft (1.1 m) high, positioned out
of the main air current from the beam.
turbulence intensity: the ratio of the standard deviation of the air velocity to the mean air velocity. Used
to measure variations in air velocity.

2
 3 Symbols and Units

3 SYMBOLS AND UNITS

Symbol Quantity Unit: I-P (SI)

cp specific heat capacity, cp = 1 Btu/lbm°F (4.187 kJ/[kg·K]) water, 

cp = 0.24 Btu/lbm°F (1.005 kJ/[kg·K]) air
L active length of beam ft (m)
Lt total length of a beam, including casing ft (m)
P total cooling capacity active beam, P = Pa + Pw Btu/h (W)
total cooling capacity passive beam, P = Pw Btu/h (W)
Pa primary air cooling capacity, Pa = Qp  pcp(ta – tp) Btu/h (W)
PL specific cooling capacity of a beam, relative to active length L W/ft (W/m)
PLN nominal specific cooling capacity at t N Btu/h·ft (W/m)
PN nominal cooling capacity at t N Btu/h (W)
Pw water-side cooling capacity, Pw = cp·Qm(tw2 – tw1) Btu/h (W)
q thermal load Btu/h (W)
Qm water mass flow rate (Qm =  w · Qw) lb/min (kg/s)
Qp primary airflow rate cfm (m³/s)
Qs secondary airflow rate cfm (m³/s)
Qw water flow rate cfm (L/s)
ta induced air temperature °F (°C)
tp primary air temperature °F (°C)
tr reference air temperature = room air temperature °F (°C)
tw1 water inlet temperature °F (°C)
tw2 water outlet temperature °F (°C)
tw mean water temperature, tw = 0.5(tw1 + tw2) °F (°C)
W humidity ratio (mass water/unit mass dry air) lb/lb (kg/kg)
t temperature difference,  t = tr – tw °F (K)
t N nominal temperature difference °F (K)
p density of primary air, 0.075 lb/ft3, 70°F (1.20 kg/m3, t = 21°C) lb/ft3 (kg/m3)
w density of water 62.4 lb/ft3 (1000 kg/m3) lb/ft3 (kg/m3)

3
Active and Passive Beam Application Design Guide

4 ABBREVIATIONS

A floor area
ACH, ach air changes per hour
ACHINF infiltration air changes per hour
AHU air-handling unit
Cair cooling by air (primary airflow)
CAPEX capital expenditure
CHWR chilled-water return
CHWS chilled-water supply
CW cooling by water (water coil)
CWTin Beam chilled-water temperature in
DB, db dry-bulb temperature,
°F (°C)
DBIDA IDA design condition cooling
DBODA1 ODA design condition cooling
DBODA3 ODA design condition heating
DBSUP primary air temperature
DCV demand-controlled ventilation
DP dew-point temperature, °F (°C)
DPIDA IDA design condition cooling
DPODA2 ODA design condition dehumidification
DPSUP primary air dew point
DR draught rating
dT temperature difference
Enth enthalpy, Btu/lb (kJ/kg)
h ceiling height
HR humidity ratio, lb moisture/lb dry air (g moisture/kg dry air)
HRIDA IDA design condition cooling
HRODA1 ODA design condition cooling
HRODA2 ODA design condition dehumidification
HRSUP primary air humidity ratio

4
 4 Abbreviations

HWR hot-water return

HWS hot-water supply
INF infiltration airflow
LCC life-cycle cost
LLAT latent load (dehumidication dsg cdts)
LSENS sensible load (clg design cdts)
MCDBODA2 ODA design condition dehumidification
MCWBODA1 ODA design condition cooling
NP occupancy
OCPL occupant load, lat/p
OCPS occupant load, sens/p
OPEX operating expenditure
OPR owner project requirements
PICV pressure-independent control valve
PMV predicted mean vote
PPD predicted percentage of dissatisfied
Ra ventilation, cfm/ft2 (L/s·m2)
RHIDA IDA design condition cooling
Rp ventilation, per person
SET standard effective temperature
TCO total cost of ownership
V primary airflow
V1 ventilation requirement
V2 airflow for dehumidification
vol volume
w.c. water column
WB, wb wet-bulb temperature, °F (°C)

5
Active and Passive Beam Application Design Guide

5 INTRODUCTION

Active and passive beam systems are an energy-efficient solution for spaces that require indi-
vidual zone control and where the internal moisture loads are moderate. Active and passive beam
systems provide good thermal comfort and energy and space saving advantages. The operation of
the system is simple, with low maintenance requirements. Although they are often referred to as
“chilled” beams, in many cases active beams can be used for both heating and cooling the space. In
this guide, we will refer to them as active or passive beams.
Active and passive beams are room air recirculation devices that transfer sensible heat to and
from the space using water. In addition, conditioned primary air is ducted to active beams. This
primary air must satisfy the ventilation and latent requirements of the space and drive the induction
of room air through the beam’s coil. In the case of passive beams, this primary air is delivered to
the space through a decoupled ventilation system. Active and passive beams may be integrated
with acoustic ceilings or independently mounted.

5.1 COMMON APPLICATIONS

Active and passive beam systems have specific applications. As a result, each application must
be reviewed for potential benefits as well as the suitability of these types of systems. One consider-
ation that can assist in the decision to use hydronic systems, as opposed to an all-air system, is the air-
side load fraction, or the percentage of the total air supply that must be delivered to the zone to satisfy
code and possible dehumidification requirements. Tables 5-1 and 5-2 show typical load fraction for
several spaces. The best applications for beam systems are those with the lowest air-side load frac-
tion, because they are the ones that will benefit the most from the efficiencies of hydronic systems.
Another factor that should be evaluated is the sensible heat ratio (the percentage of the cooling load
which is sensible). To prevent latent removal by the hydronic system, the latent loads must be satis-
fied with an air system that will potentially offer some sensible cooling at the same time because of
the temperature of dehumidified air. If the total sensible cooling load is significantly higher than the
capacity of the air that would need to be supplied to satisfy the latent loads, a beam system might be a
good choice.

5.1.1 Commercial Office Buildings

In an office building, active and passive beam systems provide several benefits. The reduced sup-
ply air volume required from the air-handling system for ventilation purposes provides significant
energy savings. In addition, the smaller infrastructure required for this reduced airflow allows for
smaller plenum spaces and mechanical room footprints, translating into shorter floor-to-floor con-
struction or higher ceilings and increased usable floor space. The reduced supply air volume and
elimination of fans at or near the space offers a significant reduction in generated noise. The mini-
mized airflow often translates to reheat requirements being reduced. Figure 5.1 shows a typical office
installation.

6
 5 Introduction

FIGURE 5-1 Active beams installed in an acoustical ceiling grid.

Courtesy: Halton Oy

FIGURE 5-2 Exposed active beams in a commercial application.

Courtesy: Halton Oy

7
8
TABLE 5-1 Typical Ventilation Rate for Difference Spaces According to ASHRAE/EN Standards
2010 ASHRAE
Default Default
2007 and 2010 Default Occupant Density, LEED v2 EQc2—
ASHRAE 62.1 Ventilation Ventilation, Ventilation,
ASHRAE ft2/Occupant Increase Ventilation
cfm/person cfm/ft2
Standard 62.1 Requirements
Occupancy ASHRAE
Category ASHRAE Rp, Ra, Default, Default, ASHRAE ASHRAE Rate, Governing
Standard 62.1,
Standard 62.1 cfm/person cfm/ft2 cfm/person cfm/ft2 Standard 62.1 Standard 62.1 cfm/ft2 Standard
Number/1000 ft2

Daycare ASHRAE
25 40 10 0.18 17 0.43 17 0.43 0.56
(through age 4) Standard 62.1

Classrooms ASHRAE
35 29 10 0.12 13 0.46 13 0.45 0.59
(age 9+) Standard 62.1

Lecture ASHRAE
65 15 7.5 0.06 8 0.52 8 0.52 0.68
classroom Standard 62.1

Lecture hall ASHRAE

150 7 7.5 0.06 8 1.20 8 1.2 1.56
(fixed seats) Standard 62.1

ASHRAE
Multiuse assembly 100 10 7.5 0.06 8 0.80 8 0.8 1.04
Standard 62.1
Active and Passive Beam Application Design Guide

Restaurant ASHRAE
70 14 7.5 0.18 10 0.70 10 0.7 0.91
dining rooms Standard 62.1

Cafeteria/ ASHRAE
100 10 7.5 0.18 9 0.90 9 0.9 1.17
fast-food dining Standard 62.1

ASHRAE
Conference/meeting 50 20 5 0.06 6 0.30 6 0.3 0.39
Standard 62.1

ASHRAE
Office space 5 200 5 0.06 17 0.09 17 0.09 0.12
Standard 62.1

ASHRAE
Retail 15 67 7.5 0.12 16 0.24 16 0.24 0.31
Standard 62.1

ASHRAE
Mall common areas 40 25 7.5 0.60 9 0.36 9 0.36 0.47
Standard 62.1
 5 Introduction

5.1.2 Schools
Schools are another application that can benefit from active and passive beam systems. Similar to
office buildings, the benefits of a reduced supply air volume to the space are decreased fan power, lower
plenum height, reduced reheat requirements, and lower noise levels (often a critical design parameter of
schools).

5.1.3 Hospital Patient Rooms

Hospitals are applications where the outdoor air volume required by local codes and guidelines for
each space is often greater than the requirement of the cooling and heating load, because of air quality
issues for patients care.

5.1.4 Laboratories
Active and passive beam systems can be suitable in sensible-load-driven laboratories where the
supply airflow rate is driven by the internal gains (such as refrigerators, testing equipment, etc.) as
opposed to the exhaust requirements. In these environments, it is not unusual to require a large air-
change rate in order to satisfy the load, although significantly fewer air changes may be required by
code.

TABLE 5-2 Typical Load Fractions for Several Spaces from Europe

Ventilation Requirement,
Total Air Volume,
EN 15251—Cat II / Air-Side
Application All-Air System,
Low-Pollution Building, Load Fraction
cfm/ft2 (L/s·m²)
cfm/ft2 (L/s·m²)

Single office 1.4 (7) 0.3 (1,4) 0,20

Open-space office 1.3 (6,5) 2.0 (1,2) 0,18

Conference room 2.2 (11) 0.8 (4,2) 0,38

School 2.2 (11) 0.8 (4,2) 0,38

Kindergarten 1.8 (9) 0.8 (4,2) 0,47

Auditorium 2.5 (12,9) 2.0 (10) 0,77

Department store 2.2 (11) 0.3 (1,7) 0,16

Restaurant 2.0 (10) 1.1 (5,4) 0,54

Patient room 1.6 (8) 0.3 (1,6) 0,20

9
Active and Passive Beam Application Design Guide

In these applications, the difference between the supply air volume required to manage the sensible
loads and that required to meet the fume hood airflow requirements provides opportunity for energy
savings through the application of active and passive beams. These savings are typically due to the
reduction in fan power as well as the energy associated with treating the outdoor air, which, in the case
of a sensible-load-driven lab, may be significant.

5.1.5 Hotels / Dormitories

Hotels, motels, dormitories, and similar buildings can also benefit from active and passive beam
systems. Fan power savings often come from the elimination of fan coil units located in the occupied
spaces, as a central air-handling unit can have a lower total specific fan power. It also allows for the
elimination of the electrical service required for the installation of fan coil units, as well as a reduction
in the maintenance of the drain and filter systems. The removal of these fans from the occupied space
also provides lower noise levels, which is a significant benefit in sleep areas.

5.1.6 Limitations
There are several possible applications where humidity can be difficult to control, such as lobby
areas, kitchens, natatoriums, and spaces where there is a large and/or variable latent load from occu-
pants.
Entrance areas may see a significant short-term humidity load if they are not isolated in some way
(revolving doors or vestibules). In these areas, if outdoor conditions are very humid, a choice of a com-
plementary technology is ideal. This is also more likely if the building envelope has a high infiltration
rate and the outdoor conditions are very humid.

5.2 BEAMS TYPES

5.2.1 Passive Beams

Passive beams are characterized by heat transfer from natural convection of room air across the
hydronic coil. Natural convection as it relates to passive beams occurs because of buoyancy forces when
the cooler surface of the heat exchanger comes in contact with warmer room air; the air cools, its density
increases, and the heavier air moves downward into the space.

5.2.2 Active beams

Active beams are characterized by forced convection caused by induction of room air across the
hydronic coil. This induction is created by primary air discharged through nozzles at high velocity. The
discharge air through the nozzles induces room air, which is heated or sensibly cooled by the coil and
then mixed with the primary air. It is recommended that the space ventilation requirements and latent
space loads be controlled by the volume and moisture content of the primary air supply.

5.2.3 Multiservice Beams

Typical beam installations deliver air for ventilation and latent cooling, as well as provide heating
or sensible cooling for temperature control. In some instances, these can incorporate other building ser-

10
 5 Introduction

vices, such as lighting, power, network cabling, PA, smoke detection, and fire suppression. This consol-
idation is typically investigated in order to minimize the disparate elements in the ceiling. These are
referred to as multiservice beams and are available with both active and passive beam types.

5.3 BENEFITS OF ACTIVE AND PASSIVE BEAM SYSTEMS

5.3.1 Energy
The heat transfer capacity of water allows for a reduction in the energy used to transport an equiva-
lent amount of heat as compared to an all-air system. These reductions can be achieved primarily
through reduced fan energy. The higher chilled-water supply (CHWS) temperatures used with active
and passive beam systems, typically around 58°F(14.5°C), provide many opportunities for reducing in
energy use.

FIGURE 5-3 Airflow schematic of a passive beam.

FIGURE 5-4 Airflow schematic of an active beam.

11
Active and Passive Beam Application Design Guide

5.3.2 Beam Efficiencies

Water has a higher transfer efficiency than air because of its energy density characteristics per unit
volume when transporting energy to and from a zone. It requires less power to move the necessary cool-
ing or heating energy. Because the air volume for an all-air system has airflow volumes which are often
significantly higher than ventilation requirements, larger ductwork is required to provide the same cool-
ing or heating effect as the same unit volume of water (see Figure 5-6). The specific heat capacity per
unit mass of water is 4.2 times higher than the specific heat capacity of standard air. The density of
water is approximately 800 times greater than standard air.

5.4 CORRECTION FOR ALTITUDE

All psychrometric properties change with altitude, and this should be taken into account in the cal-
culations and beam selection data.
Manufacturers’ performance data, pressure losses, or sound power generated are usually valid for
an air density of 0.075 lb/ft3 (1.2 kg/m3) at sea level. Air densities for different altitudes above sea, with
correction factors, can be found in the ASHRAE Handbook—Fundamentals.

FIGURE 5-5 Exposed passive beams with integrated lighting.

Courtesy: Trox

12
 5 Introduction

FIGURE 5-6 Approximate comparison between water and air transporting equivalent energy.

5.5 TESTING AND RATING

Testing of beams is done in accordance with EN 14518, Ventilation for Buildings—Chilled
Beams—Testing and Rating of Passive Chilled Beams (ISO 2005b) (passive) and EN 15116, Ventilation
in Buildings—Chilled Beams—Testing and Rating of Active Chilled Beams (ISO 2008) (active) in
Europe. In the United States, the appropriate standard is currently under development, ASHRAE Stan-
dard 200P, Methods of Testing Chilled Beams, for active beams. Certification programs (Eurovent,
AHRI) guarantee accuracy of manufacturers’ technical data.

13
Active and Passive Beam Application Design Guide

6 COMFORT

6.1 THERMAL COMFORT

Human thermal comfort is defined as the state of mind that expresses satisfaction with the surround-
ing environment. Maintaining thermal comfort for occupants of buildings or other enclosures is the
most important goal of HVAC design engineers.
Thermal comfort is affected by heat conduction, convection, radiation, and evaporative heat loss.
Thermal comfort is maintained when the heat generated by human metabolism is allowed to dissipate,
thus maintaining thermal equilibrium with the surroundings. Any heat gain or loss beyond this gener-
ates a perception of discomfort. It has been long recognised that the sensation of feeling hot or cold is
not just dependent on air temperature alone.
Factors determining thermal comfort include the following:
• Personal factors
- Clothing insulation level (Clo value)
- Activity levels (metabolic rate)
• General factors affecting the whole body thermal sensation
- Air temperature
- Mean radiant temperature
- Relative humidity
- Air velocity
Thermal balance can, depending on activity and clothing, only be achieved within certain environ-
mental conditions. For example, at temperature of 75°F (24°C), a person doing work sitting down in an
office produces approximately 430 Btu/h (130 W) of total heat, of which 185 Btu/h (55 W) (ASHRAE
2009) is released through evaporation. The remaining heat is emitted through radiation and convection.
To assess whole body thermal comfort, a number of additional and derived quantities are used, such
as operative temperature and radiant temperature asymmetry. To predict the statistical average of the
space population’s whole body thermal comfort, PMV and predicted percentage of dissatisfied (PPD)
indices are used. To predict local thermal comfort, the draught rating (DR) index may be used. Refer to
the examples in Chapter 10, Controls.
Standard EN ISO 7730:2005, Ergonomics of the Thermal Environment—Analytical Determination
and Interpretation of Thermal Comfort Using Calculation of the PMV and PPD Indices and Local
Thermal Comfort (ISO 2005a), and ANSI/ASHRAE Standard 55-2013, Thermal Environmental Condi-
tions for Human Occupancy, define these indices and propose methods for predicting thermal sensation.
The paramount consideration in sizing and locating the beams in the room should be maintaining ther-
mal comfort within the occupied zone. The occupied zone is defined by EN 13779-2007, Ventilation for
Non-residential Buildings—Performance Requirements for Ventilation and Room-Conditioning Sys-
tems (ECS 2007a), and ANSI/ASHRAE Standard 55-2013.
Indoor climate target values (normally specified in the owner’s project requirements) should be taken
into account when defining design values for beam systems. Specific capacity (by beam length) and pri-
mary airflow rate should be limited to the range where proper operation conditions and comfortable
thermal conditions can be ensured (e.g., by avoiding objectionable velocities in the occupied zone or
stratification).

14
 6 Comfort

Typical indoor climate target values are as follows:

• –0.5 < PMV < 0.5.
• Localized factors affecting specific exposed body area
- Vertical air temperature difference between 3.6 and 0.33 ft (1.1 and 0.1 m) above the floor (level
of head and ankles) <9°F (5°C)
- Local air temperature
- Air movement/velocity/turbulence
- Radiant asymmetry

6.2 ACOUSTICAL COMFORT

Indoor sound level strongly influences human comfort. Bad acoustic design contributes to noisy envi-
ronments, which can prevent spaces from being used for their intended purpose.
Room design sound pressure levels, generated and/or transmitted by the ventilation or air-conditioning
system in different types of spaces, are defined in national standards. These values are time-averaged room
sound pressure levels and apply to sound generated by the air-conditioning system only.
Sound sources, like active beams, generate sound power by airflow through the nozzles. Therefore,
the sound power is strongly dependent on primary airflow.

15
Active and Passive Beam Application Design Guide

7 PASSIVE BEAMS

7.1 PRACTICAL GUIDELINES

Passive beams provide sensible cooling from the water coil. Heating and ventilation must be han-
dled by complementing systems.
Positioning of passive beams is crucial for the following:

• Capacity
- Locating the passive beams in consideration of natural movement of room air can optimize beam
output.
- Avoid strong heat sources located directly below a passive beam.
- Care should be taken to not locate a passive beam too far above the finished floor, as the cool
convective air may not penetrate the occupied zone because of heat gain from room air or sur-
faces. Typical height above the finished floor is 15 ft (<4,5m). More detailed analysis is required
to verify performance.
• Comfort
- The higher the capacity per unit length, the more important the positioning becomes to maintain
acceptable comfort (because of the potential of draught sensation).
- Use areas outside the occupied zone to allow the cooled air to mix with the room air before it
reaches the occupants.

7.2 FUNCTION
A passive beam consists of a coil and a casing (Figure 7-1). In some cases, it can include an
architectural cover plate such as a perforated face or grille. The coil includes a circuit of copper

FIGURE 7-1 Typical construction of passive beam.

16
 7 Passive Beams

pipe expanded into aluminium fins to maximize the heat exchange between the water and the fins.
The fins are spaced closely enough to maximize the cooling capacity but widely enough to avoid
restriction of natural convection. When cold water circulates through the coil, the fins are cooled
down. The air in contact with the fins is cooled and, because cold air is heavier (denser) than warm
air, it will descend into the room, in turn drawing warmer air into the top of the coil. There are two
basic types of passive beams, exposed (see Figure 7-2) and recessed versions (see Figure 7-8).

7.3 PASSIVE BEAM TYPES

7.3.1 Exposed Passive Beams

Exposed passive beams can help provide cooling in situations where there is a limited ceiling
height, while increasing the perceived room volume. When installing exposed passive beams, it is
important to allow enough room above the beams for the recirculation air to flow freely. If the
space is insufficient, the cooling capacity will be reduced as the natural convective cycle is
obstructed. Figure 7-3 shows that the distance Z should be at least 0.25B when there is open area in
both sides. In the case where passive beam is installed close to a wall (i.e., distance from the <B),
the distance Z should be at least 0.5B. Figure 7-4 shows performance correction for passive beams
located closed to a wall.
To prevent disruption of the natural convection through the beam, it is desirable to avoid air-
streams from the ventilation system from interrupting the airflow on the back side of the beam.

FIGURE 7-2 Exposed passive beam.

Courtesy of Price Industries

17
Active and Passive Beam Application Design Guide

FIGURE 7-3 Minimum clearance between passive beam and ceiling.

7.4 CAPACITY
Passive beams typically provide sensible cooling capacities ranging between approximately 50–
260 Btu/h·ft (50–250 W/m). The capacity is influenced by the difference between the mean water
temperature tw and the entering air temperature troom as shown from generic test data (Figure 7-5).
Capacity reduces as the  t (typically 14°F to 16°F [8 to 9 K]) decreases. Capacity can also be influ-
enced by the height of the shroud, beam configuration, and size. In a laboratory test, doubling the
height of the shroud from 6 in. to 12 in. (150 mm to 300 mm) gave an increase of approximately 25%
capacity at a  t of 9 K as shown in Figure 7-6.

 t a ± t w K

The design of the face material may restrict air falling through the face. If the beam is installed
behind a perforated ceiling, the air falling below the beam will hit the ceiling, spread out, and fall
into the zone below over a larger area. As long as there is enough free area in the ceiling (i.e., if
there is a gap relative to 25% of the beam width, there will be no effect on the capacity) to allow
the air to fall through as well as rise through to feed the beam with warm air (see Figure 7-7), there
should not be a reduction in the capacity of the unit, as shown in Figure 7-8. Use of a perforated ceil-
ing is also a good way to reduce velocities below the beam, if required. Because airflow through
the beam is driven by buoyancy forces, any restriction in the air paths will affect the passive beam’s
performance.

18
 7 Passive Beams

FIGURE 7-4 Performance correction for passive beams located near a wall (less than B) in rela-
tion to gap and beam width ratio Z/B.

7.4.1 Recessed Passive Beams

Passive beams may be installed behind a suspended ceiling, though some local codes may not
recommend this. In this application, a minimum clearance between the top of the beam and soffit
should be provided for a sufficient return air path. Shadow gaps, dummy beam sections, and trans-
fer grilles are recommended for return air path arrangements. The return air path should be placed
adjacent to the unit, if possible. To maximize capacity, the net free area of return air path should be
a minimum of 50% of the face area of passive beams. If recessed beams are desired for aesthetic
reasons and the interstitial space may not be used, it is possible to apply a passive beam with an
integral return path where the room air is able to pass through the coil with no communication with
the ceiling void (plenum space).
To ensure that condensation does not form on the heat exchanger surfaces, the chilled-water
supply temperature should be typically maintained 2°F–4°F (1–2 K) above the room dew point.

7.5 VENTILATION SYSTEMS

Passive beams can be used with a variety of ventilation systems. The location of the supply air out-
lets must be considered carefully to understand its influence on the operation of the passive beams. If

19
Active and Passive Beam Application Design Guide

FIGURE 7-5 Typical capacity of passive beams increases with increasing temperature differen-
tial (w = temperature water, a = temperature room air).

FIGURE 7-6 Capacity of passive beams as a function of coil shroud height.

20
 7 Passive Beams

FIGURE 7-7 Capacity of passive beams as function of ratio of return path free area (gap) to
beam width.

significant disturbances to the air entering the beam exist, the performance may be compromised. Venti-
lation systems that promote thermal stratification, such as underfloor air distribution or displacement
ventilation, may offer improved performance and energy savings because of the higher air temperatures
entering the beam.

7.6 HEATING
Passive beams are not used for heating; instead, a separate heating system is typically used, where
required.

7.7 SELECTION PROCEDURE

Selecting passive beams involves several steps. Determination of the zone load and airflow require-
ments leads to the amount of cooling required by the beams:

1. Determine the zone loads and design conditions.

2. Select a chilled-water temperature.
3. Determine the zone primary air conditions.
4. Determine the supply air volume flow rate required to satisfy the zone, Qp, cfm (m3/s):
a. Ventilation rate, Qv, cfm (m3/s)
Latent load L, Btu/h (kW)NP × OCPL + INF × 4840 × (HRODA2 – HRIDA) I-P
NP × OCPL + (INF/1000) × 1.2 × 2,500 × (HRODA2 – HRIDA) SI

21
Active and Passive Beam Application Design Guide

5. Determine the sensible cooling capacity of the primary air, S,p, Btu/h (kW) 
V × 1.1 × (DBIDA – DBSUP) I-P
V × 1.2 × (DBIDA – DBSUP) SI
6. Determine the required sensible cooling capacity from the beam(s), S,b (Btu/h [kW]), which
corresponds to the beam capacity, where P is defined as space.
Space sensible cooling load-cooling capacity of supply air volume
7. Determine the beam quantity, size, and water flow rate based on the sensible cooling require-
ment.
8. Check that the beam(s) satisfy the acoustical and comfort requirements of the space where
NP = number of occupants in the space
OCPL = latent heat produced by the occupants
INF = outdoor air infiltration
HRODA2 = humidity ratio of space air
HRIDA = humidity ratio of space operating design condition
V = volumetric flow rate of the supply air
DBIDA = dry-bulb temperature of space operating design condition
DBSUP = dry-bulb temperature of supply air

FIGURE 7-8 Recessed passive beam installation.

22
 7 Passive Beams

7.8 LAYOUT

7.8.1 Parallel to the Façade/Perimeter Zones

To offset solar gains in the perimeter zone, passive beams can be positioned parallel to the façade. A
key advantage of this arrangement is that any warm plume rising from the building envelope increases the
differential between the entry air temperature and the coil temperature, thereby enhancing the perfor-
mance. Furthermore, the momentum from the thermal plume can be “scooped” into the beam, increasing
the airflow for further increases in capacity. It is important, however, to ensure that the plume rising from
the window is allowed a path to rise beside the passive beam. If there is no room for the warm air to reach
the recirculation area above the passive beam, or if the plume is sufficiently strong, it can pass over the face
of the beam, dramatically reducing the capacity. In these situations, it is generally good practice to request
a mock-up test or computer simulation of the application.
The thermal plume is trapped in the cavity formed between the beam ceiling and the slab above,
directing the rising warm air through the coil. Passive beams mounted in this configuration may not
directly affect the window temperature, but may offer increased passive beam performance because
of the warmer air entering the coil. Care should be taken to fully explore this condition, because the
strength of the plume and soffit design may change the beam performance in unexpected ways. The
following guidelines should minimize the negative impact of interaction of thermal plumes and build-
ing construction and ceiling elements:

FIGURE 7-9 Perimeter beam installation using a ceiling opening and plenum cavity created
with a partition.

23
Active and Passive Beam Application Design Guide

• Roller blinds are more effective at guiding the thermal plumes from solar gains to perimeter
beams than slatted horizontal blinds. Separation distance of the roller blind to the glazing surface
is critical as well as a relief at the top to allow the warm air to rise; otherwise, there is a risk that
the blind surface temperature may rise, and asymmetric radiant thermal occupant discomfort may
increase.
• A larger pathway for the plume to be drawn into the plenum space offers lower resistance and
increases beam cooling performance.

FIGURE 7-10 A typical installation where passive beams are perpendicular to façade (note
spacing for return air path).
Courtesy of Swegon

24
 8 Active Beams

8 ACTIVE BEAMS

8.1 PRACTICAL GUIDELINES

The following are practical guidelines for using active beams:
• Active beams can typically handle sensible cooling capacities up to 40 Btu/h·ft2 (120W/m2) of floor
area. Management of higher loads (e.g., heat-driven laboratories) can be accomplished but may
require a more detailed analysis.
• Chilled-water temperature 57°F to 65°F (14°C to 18°C)
• Heating water temperature 110°F to 140°F (40°C to 60°C)
• Inlet static pressure 0.2 to 1.0 in. w.c. (50 to 250 Pa)
• T through the coil 4°F to 8°F (2 to 4 K)
• Active beams are a good choice for the following applications:
- Spaces with typical heating and sensible cooling requirements
- Buildings with moderate internal latent loads
- Spaces with limited floor-to-ceiling heights
- Spaces where low noise levels are desired
• The heating and cooling capacity of beams is one of the major selection criteria. Other important con-
siderations are as follows:
- Primary airflow rate
- Water flow rate
- Air and water pressure drop
- Control strategy
- Noise
- Space humidity ratio
- Beam discharge airflow pattern (throw and drop)
- Occupant thermal comfort
- Style of beam
- Ceiling heights

8.2 INTRODUCTION
Active beams are connected to both the primary air as well as the chilled- and heated-water sys-
tems. Primary air is supplied through nozzles to provide ventilation and dehumidification to the space,
while inducing room air through the coil to control the balance of the heating or sensible cooling load.
To ensure that there is no condensation, the chilled-water supply temperature must be maintained at or
above the room dew point, while the heating-water temperature is typically supplied at temperatures
that do not cause beam exit air temperatures more than 15°F (9 K) higher than the room temperature
during occupied hours, to prevent stratification from occurring.
An overhead active beam produces mixed-flow room air-distribution conditions in the space. Room
temperature may be controlled by varying the water flow rate through the heat exchanger, the volume
flow rate of primary air, or both.
The primary air is delivered from the air-handling unit to pressurize a small cavity in the beam
to between 0.2 and 1.0 in. w.c. (50 and 250 Pa). This pressurized air is then injected near the heat

25
Active and Passive Beam Application Design Guide

exchanger at relatively high velocity, creating a region where the static pressure is reduced, relative
to the room. Figure 8-2 shows an active beam in operation. The area above the coil is the pressur-
ized plenum with integral nozzles injecting primary air into the mixing cavity. The raised velocity
of the primary air reduces the static pressure behind the coil, inducing room air through the face
and coil. This room air, now conditioned, mixes with the primary air and is discharged back into
the room through integral diffusers.
One of the performance determinants of an active beam is its induction ratio. This is defined as the
total air volume flow rate discharged from the beam divided by the primary air volume flow rate deliv-
ered from the system:
Q primary  Q sec ondary
IR = -------------------------------------------------
-
Q primary

FIGURE 8-1 Three-dimensional illustration of active beam installation.

FIGURE 8-2 Typical operational principles of active beam.

26
 8 Active Beams

8.3 ACTIVE BEAM TYPES

Active beams are available in a variety of configurations, including the following:
• Ceiling mounted
- One-way and two-way discharge units
- Four-way discharge units
• Bulkhead chilled beam
Other type of active beams are as follows:
• Floor mounted
• Perimeter wall
In ceiling-mounted beams, the outlet is generally similar to a slot diffuser, though other discharge
options may be available.

FIGURE 8-3 Typical function of different types of active beams.

FIGURE 8-4 A two-way active beam.

Courtesy of Price Industries

27
Active and Passive Beam Application Design Guide

In some models, there is space within the beam for valve and damper installation (Figure 8-8). This
can minimize the number of access doors into ceiling void, but will also reduce the coil length within
the casing (Figure 8-9).

8.4 COOLING WITH ACTIVE BEAMS

Active beams cool spaces to maintain setpoint conditions. The cooling capacity of active beams is
split into two parts:
• Sensible and latent cooling capacity of the primary air
• Sensible cooling capacity of the coil to recondition recirculated room air

FIGURE 8-5 Active beam with four-sided discharge.

Courtesy of Trox

FIGURE 8-6 Bulkhead active beam.

Courtesy of Swegon

28
 8 Active Beams

The flow rate of the primary air is determined by the following three criteria:
• Required ventilation rate
• Flow required to maintain space design humidity levels.
• Any additional flow required to increase the overall beam sensible cooling capacity
The required ventilation rates are dictated by codes and vary with application. To keep humidity
levels within the design parameters, the primary air is supplied at a sufficient flow rate and dew point to
offset the latent gains in the zone.

FIGURE 8-7 Perimeter wall induction unit.

Courtesy of Swegon

FIGURE 8-8 Active beam with integrated water and air volume control.
Courtesy of Swegon

29
Active and Passive Beam Application Design Guide

8.5 HEATING WITH ACTIVE BEAMS

Active beams can also be used for heating. This can be accomplished by any of the following methods:

• Four-pipe coil with independent loops for heating and cooling

• Two-pipe water distribution system where heating and cooling are accomplished through the same
loop
• Hot-water or electric resistance heating coil in the duct feeding the thermal zone to heat the primary
air as required by the space heating demand (chilled-water flow remains off)

As in cooling mode, the heating capacity of active beams is dependent on the primary airflow
rate and induction of room air. As a result, the ventilation system must be operating when heating
is required.

FIGURE 8-9 Active beam with piping enclosure.

Courtesy of Price Industries

FIGURE 8-10 Infrared measurements of beam during heating mode with two different inlet
water temperatures provided by KTH, Sweden.

30
 8 Active Beams

FIGURE 8-11 Active beam in heating mode.

8.6 ACTIVE BEAM SELECTION AND LOCATION

Selecting active beams involves several steps. Determination of the zone load and airflow require-
ments leads to the amount of cooling required by the beams.
1. Determine the zone loads and design conditions.
2. Select a chilled-water temperature.
3. Determine the zone primary air conditions.
4. Determine the supply air volume flow rate required to satisfy the zone, Qp, ft3/s (m3/s)
a. Ventilation rate, Qv, ft3/s (m3/s)
b. Latent load, L, Btu/h (kW) NP × OCPL + INF × 4840 × (HRODA2 – HRIDA) I-P NP ×
OCPL + (INF/1000) × 1.2 × 2500 × (HRODA2 – HRIDA) SI
5. Determine the sensible cooling capacity of the primary air, S,p, Btu/h (kW).
V × 1.1 × (DBIDA – DBSUP) I-P
V × 1.2 × (DBIDA – DBSUP) SI
6. Determine the required sensible cooling capacity from the beam(s), S,b Btu/h (kW), which
corresponds to the beam capacity, P, where P is the space-sensible cooling-load-cooling capac-
ity of supply air volume
7. Determine the beam quantity, size, and water flow rate based on the sensible cooling require-
ment.
8. Check that the beam(s) satisfy the acoustical and comfort requirements of the space where

31
Active and Passive Beam Application Design Guide

NP = number of occupants in the space

OCPL = latent heat produced by the occupants
INF = outdoor air infiltration
HRODA2 = humidity ratio of space air
HRIDA = humidity ratio of space operating design condition
V = volumetric flow rate of the supply air
DBIDA = dry-bulb temperature of space operating design condition
DBSUP = dry-bulb temperature of supply air
In practice, Step 7 is difficult to do without the use of manufacturers’ selection tools, because the
beam coil capacity is influenced by the following:
• Mass flow rate of air across the coil
• Mass flow rate of water through the coil
• Induction ratio
• Induced air temperature
• Mean water temperature

8.7 LAYOUT
To suit architectural requirements, the length of the beam casing can be selected longer than
the actual capacity requires (e.g., as long as the room). In this case, the coil is sized according to
the required cooling load. In practice, it is always beneficial to select as few distinct beam types,
configuration, and sizes as possible in order to simplify the design, tendering process, and the
logistics on the building site. A caution: beams can be manufactured in lengths longer than can eas-
ily be moved on the construction site (e.g., longer than will fit in an elevator).
One of the first considerations is architectural requirements (aesthetics, owner’s wishes for
flexibility, etc.), including coordination with the rest of the reflected ceiling plan (lights, sprin-
klers, smoke detectors, etc.). The optimal placement of active beams is dependent on the occupied
zone conditions. The active beams are typically placed above the work stations, because the veloc-
ity is low directly underneath the beam (when the throw pattern of the beam is horizontal). If the
beam is positioned near a wall, the unidirectional throw pattern is recommended. The designer
should understand these velocities and air temperature differences in order to properly locate the
beams. Manufacturers’ performance data, software, CFD models, and mock-ups can be used to
assist with this.
Whether active beams can be arranged parallel or perpendicular to the façade primarily
depends on the application, and arrangement may affect ceiling coordination. The layout has con-
siderable influence on the horizontal air discharge in the space and should thus be taken into
account at the design stage, considering the room or module dimensions, intended use, and flexibil-
ity required.

32
 8 Active Beams

8.7.1 Installation of Active Beams Parallel to Façade

When two-way active beams are installed parallel to the façade, their air discharges towards
the exterior wall and the internal zone. The discharge towards the façade brings thermal advan-
tages:
• The window surface is kept at a moderate temperature.
• Management of the skin envelope load in hot and cold climates is facilitated by washing it with
conditioned air. In more extreme, colder climates it may be necessary to consider an alternate
heating system at floor level along the perimeter or glazing with a low U-factor.
It may be possible to split the total flow asymmetrically to optimize the tempering of the glazing
and the occupied zone (i.e., 25% of the flow towards the glazing and 75% towards the inner, occupied
area or the other way around, as required).
An active chilled beam for each potential partition location (module) allows the room to be divided
in a flexible manner during the initial tenant fit-out and for future changes.

8.7.2 Active Beams Installed Perpendicular to Façade

The perpendicular arrangement may allow for longer beam sections, which can lead to a
reduced number of individual active beams and thus lower costs. This affects the horizontal air dis-
charge (colliding airstreams), the air distribution across the modules (potential redistribution of
partitions), and the resulting flexibility, however, must be considered.

FIGURE 8-12 Active beams installed parallel to façade (façade at top, wall at bottom).

33
Active and Passive Beam Application Design Guide

FIGURE 8-13 Active beams installed perpendicular to façade (façade at top, wall at bottom).

34
Active and Passive Beam Application Design Guide

description symbol value units formula/source

occupancy NP 1 -
ventilation per person Rp 7.0 l / s.p EN 15251 - category 2
ventilation unit area Ra 0.70 l / s.m2 EN 15251 - category 2 ; low polluting
ventilation requirement V1 19 l/s EN15251 : 2007 (Rp x NP + Ra x A)
Air Changes per Hour ACH 1.4 /h V1 x 3,6 / Vol

For the same room, the required airflow for ventilation according to ANSI/ASHRAE 62.1 is calcu-
lated in the following table.

description symbol value units formula/source

occupancy NP 1 -
ventilation per person Rp 2.4 l / s.p ANSI/ASHRAE 62.1
ventilation unit area Ra 0.30 l / s.m2 ANSI/ASHRAE 62.1
ventilation requirement V1 7.4 l/s ANSI/ASHRAE 62.1 ; (Rp x NP + Ra x A)

Note the significant difference between the two standards in ventilation airflow requirements.

9.2 PRIMARY AIRFLOW REQUIRED FOR MOISTURE CONTROL

The water vapour addition to the indoor air is generated by the occupants’ metabolisms. The fol-
lowing table (Table 9-1) shows the mass of water vapour generated per unit time and per person based
on the degree of activity.
The mass flow of water vapour generated by the occupants, in pounds per hour (grams per second), is
simply calculated by the multiplication of the number of people by the water vapour generation per person.
For example,
·
m ocp (lb/h) = N · 0.17 (lb/h) (I-P)
·
m ocp (g/s) = N · 0,022 (g/s) (SI)
where
·
m ocp = mass flow of water vapour generated by the occupants, lb/h (g/s)
N = number of people in the space.
0.17 (0,022) = water vapour generation per person at a moderate office work, lb/h (g/s), (Table 9-1)

There can be an addition to the indoor air humidity level which results from infiltration of outdoor air
through the building envelope. Whenever indoor pressure is lower than outdoor pressure, outdoor air
will enter the building through the envelope. Infiltration air entering the building will leave the building,
through the envelope or through the HVAC system, at the indoor humidity ratio.

36
 9 Primary Airflow Calculation Methodology

TABLE 9-1 Sensible and Latent Heat Loads per Person for Various Activities
(ASHRAE Handbook—Fundamentals 2013, Chapter 18, Table 1)

Water Vapour Generation

Sensible Heat, Latent Heat,
Degree of Activity
Btu/h (W) Btu/h (W)
gr/s (g/s) lb/h (g/h)

Seated in theater 245 (70) 105 (35) 0.216 (0.014) 0.11 (50)

Moderate office work 250 (75) 200 (55) 0.339 (0.022) 0.17 (79)

Walking/standing 250 (75) 250 (70) 0.432 (0.028) 0.22 (101)

Light bench work 275 (80) 475 (140) 0.864 (0.056) 0.45 (202)

Moderate dancing 305 (90) 545 (160) 0.988 (0.064) 0.51 (230)

Light machine work 375 (110) 625 (185) 1.142 (0.074) 0.59 (266)

Heavy work 580 (170) 870 (255) 1.574 (0.102) 0.81 (367)

Athletics 710 (210) 1090 (315) 1.944 (0.126) 1.00 (454)

The mass flow of water vapour entering the space due to the infiltration airflow, in pounds per
hour (grams per second), is calculated by determining the difference between the mass flow of water
vapour entering the space with the infiltration airflow and the mass flow of water vapour displaced
from the room with the room air that is forced out of the space because of the infiltration airflow:

·
m inf (lb/h) = 60Qvinf ·  · HRODA – 60Qvinf ·  · HRIDA = 60Qvinf ·  ·(HRODA – HRIDA) (I-P)

·
m inf (g/s) = Qvinf ·  · HRODA – Qvinf ·  · HRIDA = Qvinf ·  ·(HRODA – HRIDA) (SI)

where
·
m inf = mass flow of water vapour entering the space due to the infiltration airflow, lb/h (g/s)

Qvinf = infiltration airflow, ft3/min (m3/s)

 = air density, lb/ft3 (kg/m3)

HRODA = outdoor air humidity ratio, lb/lb (g/kg)

HRIDA = indoor air humidity ratio, lb/lb (g/kg)

37
Active and Passive Beam Application Design Guide

FIGURE 9-1 Person standing in room.

The mass of water vapour generated in or entering the space is given by the following formula:
· · ·
m w = m ocp + m inf

where
·
mw = mass flow of water vapour generated in or entering the space, lb/h (g/s)
·
m ocp = mass flow of water vapour generated by the occupants, lb/h (g/s)
·
m inf = mass flow of water vapour entering the space with the infiltration airflow, lb/h (g/s)
An approximation of the capacity of the water vapour sources can be calculated from the space
latent load:
·
m w = LLAT/1.075 (I-P)
·
m w = LLAT/2.500 (SI)
where
·
mw = mass flow of water vapour generated in or entering the room, lb/h (g/s)
LLAT = calculated room latent load, Btu/h (W)
1.075 (2.500) = approximate heat content of 50% rh water vapour at 75°F (24ºC) less the heat content of
water at 50°F, Btu/lb (10ºC, kJ/kg)
Note: A common design condition for the space is 50% rh at 75°F (24°C), and 50°F (10°C) is a normal
condensate temperature from cooling and dehumidifying coils.

38
 9 Primary Airflow Calculation Methodology

Knowing the capacity of the sources, the required indoor air humidity ratio, and the primary air
humidity ratio, the primary airflow required for dehumidification can be determined by a water mass
balance for the space.

Qv ·  · HRIDA = m· w + Qv · ·HRSUP

Solving for Qv ,
Qv = m· w/[ · (HRIDA – HRSUP)]
where
Qv = primary airflow, cfm (m3/s)
·
mw = mass flow of water vapour generated in or entering the space, lb/h (g/s)
 = air density, lb/ft3 (kg/m3)
HRIDA = indoor air humidity ratio, lb/lb (g/kg)
HRSUP = primary air humidity ratio, lb/lb (g/kg)
The values of the following design temperatures greatly influence the quantity and quality of the
primary airflow:
DPIDA = indoor air dew point temperature, °F (°C)
DPSUP = primary air dew point temperature, °F (°C)
dT = temperature difference, °F (°C)
The primary airflow required for dehumidification decreases one of the following happens:
• DPIDA increases,
• DPSUP decreases
• dT decreases

FIGURE 9-2 Overview of airflow and mass flow balance in the occupied space.

39
Active and Passive Beam Application Design Guide

The indoor air dew-point temperature must be such that the indoor air relative humidity falls inside
the comfort range specified in the OPR. For example, if the OPR requires that the indoor air relative
humidity lies between 30% and 60%, for an indoor air dry-bulb temperature of 77°F (25°C), the maxi-
mum indoor air dew-point temperature is 62.1°F (16,7°C).
To prevent condensation, the indoor air dew-point temperature must be equal to or lower than
the chilled-water temperature supplied to the beams. The following equation expresses this state-
ment:

DPIDA = CWTin – dT

where
DPIDA = indoor air dew-point temperature, °F (°C)
CWTin = chilled-water temperature supplied to the beams, °F (°C)
dT = temperature difference, °F (°C)
The safety temperature difference dT is typically 1°F to 3°F (1°C to 2°C). Its value has a big
influence on the dimensioning of the primary airflow and should be kept as small as possible.

9.3 PRIMARY AIRFLOW REQUIRED FOR SPACE COOLING

In extreme cooling load applications, the primary airflow may have to be increased to provide the
required sensible cooling capacity in the room.
In most cases, the beam selection should maximize the amount of cooling provided by the water
coil. A good beam selection should have over 65% of cooling done by the water coil.

9.4 CALCULATION METHODOLOGY

The calculation of the primary airflow required for dehumidification is performed in the following
three steps:
1. Choose the design indoor air dew-point temperature, the primary air dew-point temperature, and
the safety temperature difference.
2. Calculate the capacity of the water vapour sources.
· · ·
m w = m ocp + m inf

·
m ocp (lb/h) = N · 0.17 (lb/h) (I-P)

·
m ocp (g/s) = N · 0,022 (g/s) (SI)

·
m inf (lb/h) = Qvinf ·  (HRODA – HRIDA) (I-P)

·
m inf (g/s) = Qvinf ·  (HRODA – HRIDA) (SI)

40
 9 Primary Airflow Calculation Methodology

The use of the spreadsheet facilitates the exercise of investigating different base conditions and
optimizing the following key design parameters:
• CWTin, chilled-water temperature supplied to the beams
• dT, safety temperature difference
• DPIDA, indoor air dew-point temperature
• DPSUP , primary air dew point
• DBSUP , primary air dry-bulb temperature

43
Active and Passive Beam Application Design Guide

10 CONTROLS

Beam system controls typically include the following:

• Zone control
• Beam water temperature control
• Primary air-conditioning control
• Condensation prevention

10.1 ZONE CONTROL

The primary control of space temperature is normally accomplished by varying the water flow
while maintaining a constant primary air temperature and flow rate. The primary airflow rates supplied
to active beam systems are much closer to the space ventilation rates than is the case for all-air systems,
because much of the space sensible load is removed by the chilled-water circuit. Varying the airflow can
provide additional control of the room temperature or indoor air quality (IAQ).

10.1.1 Water-Side Control

The water-side capacity makes up 100% of the beam cooling output from passive beams and typi-
cally 60% to 85% of the output from active beams.
Water-side control is a closed loop, or feedback, control system in which the room temperature is
the control variable, the control agent is the chilled/warm water, and the control device is the control
valve installed in the connection water piping to the beams in the room.
The control valve can be of the two-position type (on/off) or modulating. Often on/off control valves
are used together with time-proportional action to produce an effect similar to a modulating control valve.
The control action can be on/off or modulating. For modulating, proportional (P) or proportional
integral (PI) algorithms can be implemented.
The selection of the control system type depends on the load profile, zone use, building type, and/or
design flow rates, among other considerations.
On/off control may cause significant fluctuations in the delivered air temperature of active beams,
leading to swings in room conditions. On/off control is not recommended for use with passive beams in
most applications because of the desire to minimize velocity beneath the beam as much as possible.
Figure 10-1 shows zone temperature control with four pipe beams where the primary airflow rate
remains constant while the water flow rate is varied proportionally in response to the zone temperature.
The illustration depicts four pipe beams, but the control system applies also to systems composed of two
pipe beams and a separate perimeter heating system.
When applying conventional modulating control valves, care must be taken to adequately select the
valves so that they have enough authority in the hydraulic circuit. When modulating pressure-indepen-
dent control valves (PICV) are applied, the valves always have full authority. Selection of the control
valve is thereby simpler, not requiring authority verification, and an excellent quality of room tempera-
ture control can more easily be achieved.

44
 10 Controls

10.1.2 Air-Side Control

A variable primary air volume flow rate may be used to minimize zone water reheat (especially
when the air-side cooling capacity of the beams is significant) or to implement demand-controlled ven-
tilation (DCV) strategies.
When variable primary airflow is applied in occupied zones, evaluation of the beam performance at
turndown is important to ensure that proper air patterns are maintained, draughts are avoided, and zone
ventilation and dehumidification requirements are met.
Perimeter zones, for example, can require higher primary airflow rates to treat their sensible
heat gains than would be required to ventilate and dehumidify the space. When the zone demands
less and less cooling, the chilled-water flow rate is reduced while the primary airflow rate remains
constant. Once the chilled-water flow is terminated, any further drop in space temperature can be
offset by reducing the primary airflow rate (but not below the minimum required for zone ventila-
tion and dehumidification). In the event this minimum airflow rate still overcools the space, reheat
may be required (using the warm water coil in four-pipe beams or a separate perimeter heating sys-
tem).
Figure 10-2 shows a system configured to use air-side control of the room temperature in cascade
with the water-side control.
DCV involves varying the primary airflow rate in response to zone occupancy. Typically, sen-
sors monitor the zone CO2 levels, and a zone controller meters the delivered primary airflow rate to
maintain the required zone CO2 concentration. This strategy is commonly used in applications

FIGURE 10-1 Beam zone temperature control using constant-volume primary airflow.

45
Active and Passive Beam Application Design Guide

FIGURE 10-2 Beam zone temperature control with variable-volume primary airflow.

(such as classrooms and meeting rooms) where significant variations in occupancy are expected.
When whole-building DCV solutions are applied, the ventilation rate to each individual zone is
modulated between its design value and a minimum value, according to occupancy sensors.
Figure 10-3 shows demand-controlled ventilation with active beams. Upon an increase in
occupancy, a proportional volume of additional primary air is provided to compensate for the
added space ventilation and cooling loads. This additional primary air can be introduced via the
beams, through a separate supply air diffuser, or both. In this case, the water flow rate through the
beam will continue to be modulated in accordance with the zone temperature demand. When DCV
is applied with passive-beam systems, temperature and humidity are controlled, but the analysis is
less complex, because of the decoupling of the airflow rate and beam capacity.

10.2 CHILLED-WATER TEMPERATURE CONTROL

Precise chilled-water temperature control is essential to avoid condensation as well as maximize the
cooling output of the beam system.
Figure 10-5 shows the use of a three-way mixing valve to mix primary and return water to maintain
the beam chilled-water supply temperature.
In Figure 10-6, a two-way modulating valve and bypass are used to mix primary and return water to
maintain the beam chilled-water supply temperature.

46
 10 Controls

FIGURE 10-3 Beam zone temperature control with demand-controlled ventilation.

FIGURE 10-4 Active beams installed in a classroom.

Courtesy: Swegon

47
Active and Passive Beam Application Design Guide

Figure 10-7 illustrates the use of a heat exchanger and separate, closed water loop. The primary
water flow in the heat exchanger is modulated to maintain the beam chilled-water supply temperature;
this is used when there are several uses of the primary chilled-water circuit.
Beam chilled-water temperature control is a closed-loop control system in which the supply water
temperature is controlled via adjustment of the water flow through a two- or three-way control valve or
heat exchanger installed on the suction side of the pump. In this application, the use of modulating

FIGURE 10-5 Open-loop beam chilled-water system supply temperature maintained by mixing
primary and secondary chilled water (three-way valve and bypass).

FIGURE 10-6 Open-loop beam chilled-water system supply water temperature maintained by
mixing primary and secondary chilled water (two-way valve and bypass).

FIGURE 10-7 Closed-loop beam chilled-water system supply temperature maintained by

regulating primary water flow in heat exchanger.

48
 10 Controls

valves (valve controlled) with proportional integral response is preferred. During the commissioning
process, the performance of the control system must be tested to verify that a stable supply water tem-
perature is achieved (i.e., that the temperature setpoint is met without significant error).

10.3 PRIMARY AIR CONDITIONING

Control of the building humidity level is paramount when beam systems are used. Space ventilation
and humidity control are solely provided by the supply air delivered from the air-handling unit (AHU).
The minimum supply airflow rate should be sufficient to provide both functions. The indoor dew point
is determined by the latent load to the space and the condition of the supply air. To avoid the risk of con-
densate formation on the beams, the AHU must condition the primary air to be sufficiently dry so as to
absorb the moisture generated in or infiltrating into the building.
Commissioning of the AHU control system must ensure that the supply air conditions are achieved
without significant oscillations. A range of air-conditioning technologies may be applied, provided that
the supply dry-bulb and dew-point temperature are both precisely controlled.

10.4 CONDENSATION PREVENTION

The implementation of an adequate chilled-water temperature control system, together with the
supply of an adequate amount of correctly conditioned primary air, is sufficient to avoid the occurrence
of condensation on the beams.
Water supply to active and passive beams should not be activated when space dew-point tempera-
tures are above the zone chilled-water supply temperature. It must be ensured that the beam system
chilled-water supply is shut off any time the air handler is not in operation and only restored when the
space dew-point temperature is safe for noncondensing beam operation.
In practice, a moisture sensor on the supply pipework or a dew-point calculation warns of the possi-
bility of condensation. The formation, and subsequent falling, of water droplets on the coil surface lags
the onset of conditions that could cause condensation. It is common for beams to operate with chilled-
water temperatures below the zone dew point without significant moisture collection on the beam sur-
face with condensation forming first on uninsulated surface of the chilled-water pipework feeding the
coil.
Condensation prevention can be implemented with either reactive or proactive strategies, or a com-
bination of both. In a proactive strategy, the control system acts to avoid or prevent the formation of con-
densate. In a reactive strategy, the control system acts in response to condensate that has formed.

10.4.1 Proactive Strategies

In a proactive strategy, the dew point can be monitored via the following methods:
• Contact humidistats can be used by attaching the sensor to an uninsulated portion of the piping,
immediately prior to the supply connection to the beam’s coil (Figure 10-8).
• The dew-point temperature of the space air is determined by continuous sensing of the space air
temperature and relative humidity. The calculated dew point must then be compared to the supply
water temperature.

49
Active and Passive Beam Application Design Guide

In response to the sensor feedback, chilled-water supply temperature setpoint can be reset above the
room dew point or the supply water to the zone can be halted.
Figure 10-9 presents a control strategy in which the chilled-water supply temperature is varied
in accordance with the space dew-point temperature. In this case, the beam chilled-water tempera-
ture control system maintains a minimum differential between the space dew-point temperature
and its chilled-water supply. To maintain this differential, the dew-point temperature must be mon-
itored or calculated. This can be done by monitoring the humidity either in the return air duct or
directly in the zone. This strategy allows the coil within the beam to continue to contribute to the
space sensible cooling even during periods of elevated space moisture levels.
Figure 10-10 diagrams a strategy in which the beam chilled-water flow is interrupted when the
measured space dew-point temperature rises above the beam chilled-water supply temperature.

FIGURE 10-8 Surface condensation sensor.

FIGURE 10-9 Condensation prevention strategy involving reset of beam chilled-water supply
temperature.

50
 10 Controls

10.4.2 Reactive Strategies

Condensation sensors such as those shown in Figure 10-8 are devices that are used to detect mois-
ture on the chilled-water supply pipe. When an indication of moisture is received from the sensor, the
water supply is stopped or its supply temperature is increased. This is a reactive method that can stand
alone or form part of a total strategy.
Modern condensate sensors are very sensitive to the smallest amount of moisture forming. Conden-
sation detected on the supply pipework does not mean that the chilled beam will start to condensate and
then drip. Condensation can remain on the supply pipe for a very long time, and still no condensation
will be present of the chilled beam. The protection provided by these devices must be weighed against
the probability that more thermal complaint calls may arise when and if the chilled-water supply is dis-
continued during periods where an inconsequential amount of moisture is detected by the contact
switch.
Figure 10-11 depicts a reactive control strategy that relies on surface moisture sensors affixed to
the chilled-water supply pipe. In the event that condensation formation has been detected, the sensors
override the space temperature sensor and close the chilled-water supply valve until the moisture has
evaporated. If the flow of water is halted in response to a moisture sensor, then a control scheme must be
developed to address when to turn the water system back on, because the stoppage of water flow would
typically halt the formation of moisture on the chilled-water supply pipe, even if the differential
between the zone humidity level and the chilled-water supply temperature has not been restored.

10.4.3 Spaces with Operable Windows or Doors

For applications in spaces with operable windows or doors, occupants and staff should be educated
on the effect opening these apertures can have on the thermal environment. When windows or doors are
opened, the supply of chilled water should be halted to avoid the risk of condensation and/or prevent the
loss of cooling energy.

FIGURE 10-10 Condensation prevention strategy in which water flow is discontinued when
chilled-water temperature is below space dew-point temperature because of increased humidity
or decreased temperature in the zone.

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Active and Passive Beam Application Design Guide

Window contact switches can detect if a window is open. Alternatively, moisture sensors, such as
that shown in Figure 10-8, may be used to discontinue the chilled-water flow during periods of conden-
sation risk. When these sensors are applied, one sensor should be installed on the chilled-water supply
pipe in each room (with operable windows or doors) the system serves. It must be remembered that the
chilled-water flow will not be restored until the sensor determines that all moisture has been evaporated
from the surface of the pipe.
Figure 10-12 illustrates a proactive sequence in which a sensor detects the opening of a window and
interrupts the chilled-water flow to the space. A surface moisture sensor is also used to ensure that the
space dew-point temperature is acceptable for restoring the chilled-water flow once the window is
closed. Now the control system can boost the airflow to the space to reduce the time to restore the
chilled water.

FIGURE 10-11 Control strategy in which chilled-water supply is halted when moisture is
detected on CHWS pipe.

52
 10 Controls

FIGURE 10-12 Condensation prevention strategy involving interruption of water flow after
window is opened.

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Active and Passive Beam Application Design Guide

11 INSTALLATION AND COMMISSIONING

11.1 INSTALLATION
Beams can be installed fully exposed, recessed, integrated within a suspended ceiling, or positioned
above a perforated or an open grid ceiling. When beams are installed within or above a ceiling, suitable
access must be provided for service and maintenance. It is recommended that a preinstallation meeting
be held between affected contractors to coordinate installation.
In all cases, active and passive beams should be independently supported with hangers from the
slab or structure above. Attention should be paid so that the beams are mounted in their specified verti-
cal positions to ensure adequate clearance from the structure when the upper surface serves as the return
air path. Beam weights are typically 7 to 15 lb/ft (10 to 20 kg/m) dry.
If beams are to be integrated into a suspended ceiling grid, the beams should be hung prior to the
grid installation. The beam should be initially mounted 2 ½ to 3 in. (60 to 75 mm) above the plane of the
finished ceiling. After installation of the ceiling grid, the beam is positioned horizontally, then carefully
lowered into the ceiling module. A mounting method that allows roughly 3 in. (75 mm) of movement in
all horizontal and vertical directions should be used to facilitate the final positioning in the ceiling sys-
tem. To allow beam movement and alignment, connections for the hydronic and air systems must be
properly selected. A typical installation can be seen in Figure 11-1.
Support location and installation should be done in accordance with manufacturer’s documentation.
Upon final positioning of the beam, all support connections should be adequately tightened and secured.

11.2 CONNECTION TO WATER SYSTEM

Beams are typically connected to the main supply and return water pipes with flexible hoses
using threaded connections or push-on fittings to provide some freedom of movement for the beams.
Oxygen-diffusion-resistant hoses may prevent diffusion into the water system and minimize corro-
sion. Depending on the relative levels of the pipework and the beam coil, the flexible hose may form
a loop. In most instances, there are no problems with possible air collection in the highest point of the
hose.

FIGURE 11-1 Installation of active beam using flexible hoses in water pipes and flexible duct in
air side.

54
 11 Installation and Commissioning

When beams are connected to the pipe with threaded connections, caution should be used when
tightening the joint with a wrench to avoid coil damage because of the pipe’s relatively thin wall. Hard
pipe with solder, compression, or crimp connections can also be used.

11.3 BALANCING
Airflow-balancing dampers are often installed upstream of the active beam. It is recommended that
the primary airflow rate be determined by using a static pressure measurement in the beam plenum,
because it gives the most accurate reading at the relatively high pressure level (0.2 to 0.8 in. w.c. [50 to
200 Pa]). Pitot-tube traverse of the beam supply duct is difficult because of the low velocity pressure
levels and may prevent accurate measurement of the duct airflow rate. When balancing projects at sig-
nificant altitude, it is important to correct the pressure/airflow correlation for density.

11.4 FILLING UP AND VENTING THE SYSTEM

To ensure easy venting, care should be taken that the main pipes are installed at a higher level than
the beams. The horizontal pipes should be installed, rising slightly towards the venting points, and there
should be no high points to create air pockets to within the system.
To minimize the dirt and facilitate flushing, it is important to seal any open ends of water pipes dur-
ing the construction. Before starting the flushing, it is important to isolate the individual beams and
flush the main water pipes first.
Before filling, all shutoff and control valves must be in the fully open position. Pumps should not
be running during the filling (static filling). Continuous venting is necessary, and it is recommended to
have both manual and automatic venting systems installed. Pumps should only be started when filling is
complete. To remove all air from the system, the majority (>75%) of the system should be closed so that
the water can circulate fast enough. When each section is full, the section should be closed, and the
same procedure repeated for the rest of the system.

FIGURE 11-2 Careful tightening of threaded pipe connections to avoid damage to beam coil.

55
Active and Passive Beam Application Design Guide

11.5 COMMISSIONING
When commissioning a beam system, several initial steps should be considered:

• Ensure that the coil is free of dust and debris by visual inspection.
• Ensure that the beam is free of all transportation packaging.
• Ensure that the primary air supply rate and temperature is within tolerance.
• Ensure that the supply water flow rate(s) and temperature(s) are within tolerance.

During commissioning, the commissioning agent should verify the operation of the control
sequence, including sensors used for condensation avoidance and any other project specifications.

11.5.1 Commissioning of Control Components

Testing of the typical sensors associated with the beam systems can be accomplished by the follow-
ing as appropriate for a particular system:

• Breathing on dew-point or humidity sensors. This local increase of humidity from breath should be
sufficient to develop moisture on the device.
• Dripping water on condensation sensors.
• Opening the window to trip the contact.

These methods should trigger a signal and associated controller response, which can then be veri-
fied against the specified control sequence.

56
 12 System Operation

12 SYSTEM OPERATION

12.1 MAINTENANCE AND REPLACEMENT

Operating a beam system is simple and trouble free, with limited maintenance requirements.
Although the maintenance is minimal, it is important to have easy access to the inside of the beam with-
out disturbing the suspended ceiling. Access doors should allow access to the heat exchanger, supply air
plenum, and primary air ductwork for cleaning, service, and maintenance.
The heat exchanger should be vacuumed cleaned once every one to five years, depending on the use of
space. The more dust generated during use, the more often cleaning is needed. However, if for some reason
either the beam surface or the finned coil becomes wet, it should be cleaned immediately. Dirt adheres more
easily to the wet surface of fins. When the coil is dry again, the fin surface is often coated with dirt, which is
unlikely to dissipate due to air movement through the coil. During normal operation the dust particles coming
from the room air are so small that they pass through the finned coil. There are no moving parts apart from the
control valve, so there are only minor replacements required during the life cycle. Beam systems are designed
to operate dry and do not include filters or condensation collection drains and pipes which require cleaning.

12.1.1 Draught
Firstly, check that the room air temperature is not too low. Secondly, check that the airflow rate is
not too high or too low. Too high an airflow rate may create draught near the floor. Conversely, if the air-
flow rate is too low or too cold, the air jet may fall unintentionally downwards, which may create
draught at the neck level.

12.1.2 High Room Air Temperature

The following steps should be taken if a high room air temperature report is received:
1. Check air supply and temperature.
2. Check that water flow rate is not too low.
3. Check that the water temperature is not too high.

If the heat loads in the space are significantly higher than the capacity of the beam, the water flow
rate might be increased.

FIGURE 12-1 Cleaning of chilled beam. FIGURE 12-2 Cleaning of chilled beam.

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Active and Passive Beam Application Design Guide

13 ENERGY AND TOTAL COST OF OWNERSHIP

13.1 INTRODUCTION
When selecting HVAC systems, a life-cycle cost (LCC) analysis, or total cost of ownership (TCO)
calculation, is often performed for each different HVAC system. Important information for the LCC or
TCO analysis can be found in the 2011 ASHRAE Handbook—HVAC Applications, Chapter 37, Owning
and Operating Costs.
Compared to alternative HVAC systems, beam systems may offer significant savings in operat-
ing costs, namely in energy and maintenance. Replacement costs are also lower. When beam sys-
tems are used, mechanical rooms may be smaller, and suspended ceiling height may be reduced.
This offers the opportunity for a reduction in the floor-to-floor height and a potential increase in
the building usable floor area because of potentially smaller riser requirements. The increase in the
value of the building associated with the increase in the building usable area should be taken into
account in the TCO analysis.
Properly sized mechanical systems and energy-efficient building envelopes are fundamental for
energy-efficient operation. It is assumed that this condition exists and that the construction team is
fully committed to this goal. Careful attention must be given to renovation or retrofit projects,
because the envelope may require remediation to avoid moisture infiltration, thus assisting with suit-
able indoor humidity control for the beam system. Refer to ECS EN 13829, Thermal Performance of
Buildings—Determination of Air Permeability of Buildings—Fan Pressurization Method (ISO 2001),
ANSI/ASHRAE/IES Standard 90.1-2013, Energy Standard for Buildings Except Low-Rise Residen-
tial Buildings, and ANSI/ASHRAE/USGBC/IES Standard 189.1-2011, Standard for the Design of
High-Performance Green Buildings Except Low-Rise Residential Buildings.

13.2 CAPITAL EXPENDITURES (CAPEX)

The cost of each HVAC system alternative should be accurately evaluated as an input for the TCO cal-
culation. When replacement costs are calculated, a period of 20 years can be used for beams and 10 years
for controls (wax bulb actuators may need replacement earlier). Other costs indirectly related to the HVAC
system must also be considered: (1) building space occupied with mechanical rooms and (2) floor-to-floor
height required to allow the installation of ductwork inside the suspended ceiling void. The value associ-
ated with these other costs/benefits should be included in the TCO calculation. Some examples of benefits
include the following:

• Deletion of architectural ceiling with exposed beams

• Additional floor levels possible because of reduced slab spacing
• Reduced construction costs because of lowered slab spacing
• Overall reduced construction costs associated with integrated space services (multiservice
beams)

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 13 Energy and Total Cost of Ownership

13.3 OPERATING EXPENDITURE (OPEX)

13.3.1 Energy
To calculate the energy costs, energy analysis should be performed using a dynamic energy simulation
program, preferably with a validated and widely used beam system model. In the absence of a beam model
that fulfills these conditions, the limitations of the model used should be fully understood, and a more
detailed analysis of the calculation’s output must be performed to validate the results.
To accurately simulate beam systems (as with any other system), it is necessary to fully know and
understand the technology to be simulated and the calculation method used in the simulation software.
Special attention should be taken of to ensure that the simulation correctly accounts for the latent load
(dehumidification) taken care at the air-handling unit and that only sensible cooling is performed at the
zones. Most energy simulation software provides models for HVAC systems that can be used to simu-
late beam systems, namely, beam system models, induction unit models, or fan coil models (in this case,
the fan energy must be subtracted from the final result).
As discussed in Chapters 7 and 8, beam systems have the following characteristics that may reduce
HVAC system energy consumption:

• Higher chilled-water temperatures (57°F–64°F [14°C–18°C]), which may increase chiller efficien-
cies
• Lower hot-water temperatures (90°F–113°F [32°C–45°C]), which creates an opportunity for the use
of low-temperature heat sources
• Use of water for zone-sensible cooling reduces transport energy costs
• Sufficient latent cooling produced at the AHU to ensure adequate humidity control, preventing con-
densation on the beam cooling coil
• Energy-efficient room air supply:
- Active beams: Air distribution in the room is powered by the air pressure in the beam plenum.
The pressure is produced by central, high-efficiency fans (in fan coil systems, air distribution is
powered by small, low-efficiency fans and motors).
- Passive beams: Ventilation and dehumidification air is typically supplied via a low-energy air dis-
tribution system, such as displacement ventilation or DCV.
On the other hand, compared to conventional water-based systems, beam systems consume more
pump energy because of the low water temperature differential (4°F to 6°F [2°C to 3°C]) when com-
pared to the conventional water temperature differential of 9°F (5°C).
The beams require chilled water at 57°F to 64°F (14°C to 18°C), but the AHU, for dehumidification
purposes, typically requires chilled water at around 42°F (6°C). The chiller plant may produce water at
42°F (6°C) and the required 57°F to 64°F (14°C to 18°C) water is produced by mixing with return
water. This is not an ideal solution with respect to energy efficiency, but the solution has an important
effect on energy consumption when compared to a conventional 42°F/54°F (6°C/12°C) chilled-water
system, due to the higher temperature of water returned to the chiller plant.
Energy consumption is minimized if there are dedicated chilled-water production systems for the
two different chilled-water temperatures required. This separation enhances energy efficiency for the
following reasons:

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Active and Passive Beam Application Design Guide

• Dedicated chillers for the beams can work with a 57°F (14°C) chilled-water temperature setpoint,
highly increasing their energy efficiency rating (EER).
• Free cooling can be implemented with some of the following solutions/technologies:
- Cooling tower (for warmer/drier climates)
- Dry cooler (for colder climates)
- Geothermal sources (water or ground)

The energy analysis should take into consideration all of these aspects.

60
 14 References and Bibliography

14 REFERENCES AND BIBLIOGRAPHY

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Active and Passive Beam Application Design Guide

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ISSO. 2001. Climatic ceilings and chilled beams: Applications of low temperature heating and high
temperature cooling. Thermic project no. DIS/1522/97/FR. Brussels: Directorate-General for
Energy and Transport, European Commission.
Kosonen, Hagström, Laine and Martiskainen. 2003. A life cycle costs study of an office building in
Scandinavian conditions: A case study approach. Healthy Buildings.
Kosonen, Virta. 2007. Taking flexibility into account in designing beam systems. Presented at the 9th
REHVA World Congress CLIMA 2007, Helsinki, Finland.
LBNL. 2000, Documentation Package Update #2 for DOE-2.1E, Version 107. March. Berkeley, CA:
Lawrence Berkeley National Laboratory.
Lisboa, C. 2014. The use of chilled beams in existing buildings and the new ASHRAE/REHVA Guide-
book. Presented at the ASHRAE Region at Large Chapters Regional Conference, Madrid, September.
Livchak, A., and C. Lowell, 2012. Don’t turn active beams into expensive diffusers. ASHRAE Journal
54(4): 52–61.
Loudermilk, Ken. 2009. Designing chilled beams for thermal comfort. ASHRAE Journal 51(10):58–64.
NRC. 2008. EE4 Software, Modeling Guide, Version 1.7. February. Natural Resources Canada.
Pickering, R. 2004. Chilled beams & ceilings. NDY Techniques.
REHVA. 2007. Chilled Beam Application Guidebook. Brussels: REHVA, Federation of European
Heating, Ventilation, and Air Conditioning Associations.
Roth, Kurt, John Dieckmann, Robert Zogg, and James Brodrick. 2007. Emerging technologies: Chilled
beam cooling. ASHRAE Journal 49(9).

62
 14 References and Bibliography

Rumsey, P., and J. Weale. 2007. Chilled beam in labs: eliminating reheat & saving energy on a budget.
ASHRAE Journal 49(1):18–25.
Ruponen, Streblow, Mustakallio. Room velocity control for room ventilation device. Presented at the
8th REHVA world congress CLIMA 2005, Lausanne, Switzerland.
Schultz, C.C. 2007. Next-generation cooling is looking up. Engineered Systems, 24(5):64.
Simmonds, P. 1993a. Designing comfortable office climates. Presented at the ASHRAE Building
Design Technology and Occupant Well-being in Temperate Climates International Conference,
Brussels, Belgium.
Simmonds, P. 1993b. Dynamic comfort control. Presented at the CIBSE National Conference, Man-
chester, England.
Simmonds, P. 1993c. Thermal comfort and optimal energy use. ASHRAE Transactions 99(1):1037–48.
Simmonds, P. 2010. Controlling and operating active chilled beam systems. Presented at the ASHRAE
Annual Conference, Albuquerque, NM.
Simmonds, P. 2011. Do active beams save energy and provide occupant comfort? Presented at the
ASHRAE Winter Conference, Las Vegas, NV.
Simmonds, P. 2013. To beam or not to beam. Engineered Systems, January.
TIAX. 2002. Energy consumption characteristics of commercial building HVAC systems—Volume III:
Energy savings potential. Final Report to U.S. Department of Energy, Office of Building Technolo-
gies.
University of Wisconsin–Madison. 2007. TRNSYS 16 Input Output Parameter Reference. March. Mad-
ison: University of Wisconsin–Madison.
Virta (ed.), Butler, Gräslund, Hogeling, Kristiansen, Reinikainen, and Svensson. 2004. Chilled Beam
Application Guidebook, Rehva Guidebook No. 5. Brussels: REHVA, Federation of European Heat-
ing, Ventilation, and Air Conditioning Associations.
Virta, M., Takki, T., and Oy, I. 2005. WS 07—Air Distribution Systems. Presented at the Rehva Work-
shops at Clima, Rehva Europe, October.
Weidner, Steve, Jerome Doerger, and Michael Walsh. 2009. Cooling with less air using underfloor air
distribution and chilled beams. ASHRAE Journal 51(12).
Woollett, Åkesson. 2014. Chilled beam technology overview. Presented at the TTMD IX International
HVAC+R Technology Symposium, Istanbul, May.

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Active and Passive Beam Application Design Guide

TABLE A-2 Beam Selection Data and Layout for Cellular Office
Parameter Value Units Notes

Number of beams 1 —

Primary airflow 24 cfm From “beam calculation”

Primary air temperature 55 °F From “beam calculation”

Pressure drop 0.52 in. w.g. Manufacturer’s performance data

Sound pressure level 26 Lp(A) 10 m2 SAB

Water temperature in 60.0 °F From “beam calculation”

Water temperature out 63.7 °F Manufacturer’s performance data

Water flow rate 1.2 gpm Manufacturer’s performance data

Water pressure drop 6 ft Manufacturer’s performance data

Cooling capacity, air 521 Btu/h From “beam calculation”

Cooling capacity, water 2209 Btu/h From “beam calculation”

Cooling capacity, beam 2730 Btu/h

Transfer effectiveness 114 Btu/h·ft3 Cooling capacity / primary airflow

Height of occupied zone 3.5 ft Owner’s project requirements

Maximum air velocity in occupied zone 50 fpm Owner’s project requirements

FIGURE A-1 Suggested layout visualisation for 12.3 × 14.4 ft room.

66
 Appendix A: Examples for I-P Applications

Discussion Points
Given the high level of flexibility required for office buildings and also the very variable effective
occupancy that often occurs, the system must be conceived and dimensioned so that it is easily adapted to
different floor plan layouts and occupant densities. The following provisions should be made in design:
• Adequate air distribution must be verified with and without room partitions while checking ade-
quate air distribution in critical points, namely where colliding airstreams occur.
• Design the primary air distribution system for variable airflow.

In the branch primary air duct for the beam, a motorized damper is installed. This motorized
damper is actuated to control the pressure in the beam plenum. The beam plenum pressure has two set-
points, one corresponding to occupied room, design conditions, and the other to unoccupied room. The
room occupancy is detected by a simple occupancy detector integrated into the beam.
In the unoccupied mode, adequate air distribution is not required. The beam selection only needs to
ensure adequate air distribution at design conditions.
The primary airflow required for dehumidification exceeds that required for ventilation and is propor-
tional to the humidity ratio difference between indoor air and primary air; slightly increasing the allowable
indoor air dew point or slightly decreasing the primary air dew point can significantly reduce the primary air-
flow required for dehumidification. On the other hand, the chilled-water temperature supplied to the beam
must be at or above the indoor air dew point, thus increasing the indoor air dew point reduces the beam water
coil cooling capacity. The designer must balance these aspects when choosing these parameters.
One key parameter is the safety temperature difference between the temperature of the chilled water
supplied to the beam and the indoor air dew point. The temperature’s value is a designer’s choice and must
be equal to or greater than zero. In this example, a value of 0.5 was chosen. Typical values are 0 to 1 K.

Passive Beam Example

See Table B-3.

TABLE A-3 Beam Selection Data and Layout (Passive Beam Example)
Parameter Value Units Notes
Number of beam 1 —
Beam width 24 in.
Beam length 96 in.
Water temperature in 60 °F From “beam calculation”
Water temperature out 64.6 °F Manufacturer’s performance data
Water flow rate 1 gpm Manufacturer’s performance data
Water pressure drop 3.6 ft Manufacturer’s performance data
Cooling capacity, air 521 Btu/h From “beam calculation”
Cooling capacity, water 2227 Btu/h Manufacturer’s performance data
Transfer effectiveness 115 Btu/h·ft3 Cooling capacity/primary airflow
Height of occupied zone 3.5 ft Owner’s project requirement
Maximum velocity in occupied zone 54–62 fpm Owner’s project requirement

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Active and Passive Beam Application Design Guide

FIGURE A-2 Layout.

Discussion
Passive beams provide sensible cooling to the space, without any ventilation. In this example,
it is assumed that the airflow supplied to the space will add to the sensible cooling. Based on the
beam calculation table, 24 cfm are required to meet the latent load requirements. Supplied at 55°F,
the airflow supplied to the space complements the passive beam sensible cooling to meet the design
conditions.
A variety of air distribution methods may be used with a passive beam. In this example, over-
head air distribution was chosen. This method of air distribution allows the designer to supply
colder air in the space without causing discomfort to the occupants.
Displacement ventilation or underfloor air distribution could also be used with passive beams.
Because the passive beam creates a gentle plume of cold air in the room, it shares many attributes
with stratified air systems. That being said, it is important to consider that this cold plume will cre-
ate some mixing in the occupied space and may induce some contaminants in the occupied space.
Heating is supplied by a separate system.
Considering the plume created by the passive beam, its placement in the room is particularly
important. The velocity below the beam chosen for this example will vary between 54 and 62 fpm.
To avoid creating discomfort for the occupants, the passive beam should be installed away from the
occupant’s workstation. Ideally, the beam should be installed above a transient zone in that space or
along a wall.

68
 Appendix A: Examples for I-P Applications

TABLE A-5 Beam Selection Data and Layout for Open-Plan Office

Parameter Value Units Notes

Number of beams 3 —

Primary airflow 133 cfm From “beam calculation”

Primary air temperature 62 °F From “beam calculation”

Pressure drop 0.3 in. w.c. Manufacturer’s performance data

Sound pressure level 26 Lp(A) 10 m2 SAB

Water temperature in 57.0 °F From “beam calculation”

Water temperature out 62.6 °F Manufacturer’s performance data

Water flow rate 1.5 gpm Manufacturer’s performance data

Water pressure drop 2 ft Manufacturer’s performance data

Cooling capacity, air 1901 Btu/h From “beam calculation”

Cooling capacity, water 3299 Btu/h From “beam calculation”

Cooling capacity, beam 5200 Btu/h

Transfer effectiveness 39 Btu/h·ft3 Cooling capacity/primary airflow

Height of occupied zone 3.5 ft Owner’s project requirements

Maximum air velocity in occupied zone 50 fpm Owner’s project requirements

FIGURE A-3 Suggested layout visualisation for open-plan office.

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Active and Passive Beam Application Design Guide

TABLE A-7 Beam Selection Data and Layout (Conference Room Example)

Max Q Min Q Low Occ

Quantity of beams 2 2 2

Chilled beam length, in. 72 72 72

Chilled beam width, in. 24 24 24

Primary airflow rate, cfm 110 38 45

Air-side pressure loss, in. w.g. 0.86 0.11 0.15

Throw T150-T100-T50, ft 8-13-19 1-2-7 1-3-9

Sound power, NC 33 — —

Occupancy, persons 10 0 2

Indoor air temperature, °F 75 78 75

Supply air temperature, °F 55 55 55

Water flow rate, US gpm 1.0 2.0 2.0

Water supply temperature, °F 57 57 57

Water temperature difference, °F 8.9 3.1 3.0

Water return temperature, °F 65.9 60.1 60.0

Water-side pressure loss, ft head 0.6 2.4 2.4

Transfer efficiency, Btu/h·cfm 62.6 107.9 89.3

Capacity, water-side, Btu/h 4486 3139 3027

Capacity, air-side, Btu/h 2401 961 990

Total sensible capacity, Btu/h 6887 4100 4017

Total zone primary air, cfm 220 76 90

Total zone cooling capacity, Btu/h 13,773 8201 8034

74
 Appendix A: Examples for I-P Applications

FIGURE A-4 Suggested layout visualisation for 25.9 × 16.4 ft room.

Discussion Points
Conference rooms often have high primary airflows because of ventilation and dehumidification
requirements and, therefore, in design conditions, the percentage of cooling performed by air is greater
than in rooms that require less primary airflow. This situation can only be avoided through the supply of
primary air close to the indoor air temperature, not the best solution in terms of energy consumption in a
hot and humid climate like New Orleans.
In this example, a primary air temperature of 57°F was chosen and, at design conditions, the per-
centage of cooling by air reaches 43%. More than half of the sensible cooling load of the room is asso-
ciated with occupancy and electronic equipment, so a demand-controlled ventilation (DCV) system was
adopted that modulates the primary airflow according to the space CO2 concentration.
Early condensation detection overrides the DCV control and forces maximum primary airflow to
stop condensate formation. With this control strategy, when the conference room is unoccupied or at
less than design occupancy, the primary airflow is kept to a minimum, and most of the cooling is per-
formed by the water coil. The primary airflow will automatically rise with the rise in the number of
occupants, delivering the cooling by air only when required, avoiding reheat energy consumption.
Because the room can be occupied in times when the primary airflow is significantly reduced from
the design airflow, the beams selected must be able to promote adequate air distribution in the pre-
viewed range of primary airflows.

A.4 LABORATORY EXAMPLE

A.10.1 Design Conditions

A 600 ft2 laboratory in Miami, FL is considering using active beams. The ceiling height is 10 ft,
façade height is 15 ft (per floor), and the space has a 30 ft linear exposure. The maximum infiltration

75
Active and Passive Beam Application Design Guide

Beam Selection Data and Layout

Because V1 slightly exceeds V2, beams capable of satisfying the design sensible cooling load
(34,800 Btu/h) with a primary airflow rate of 600 cfm are desired.
Manufacturer’s data indicates that 6 beams, each 6 ft long, supplied with 59°F chilled water at
water flow rates of 1.0 gpm each, will provide the required water-side sensible cooling.
Beams with a T50 of 15 ft or less may be selected and located above the two outdoor lab
benches as illustrated below (Figure A-5). Manufacturer’s data indicates a T50 value of 12 ft; thus,
the selection is appropriate.
It should be noted that an all-air VAV system supplying air at 55°F would have required 1603 cfm
in order to meet the design sensible cooling load of the space, according to the following equation:

CFMALL AIR = LSENS / [1.085 × (DBIDA – DBSA)] = 34,800/(1.085 × 20) = 1603 cfm

TABLE A-9 Beam Selection Data and Layout (Laboratory Example)

Parameter Value Units Notes

Number of beams 6 —

Primary airflow 100 cfm From “beam calculation”

Primary air temperature 55 °F From “beam calculation”

Pressure drop 0.5 in. w.c. Manufacturer’s performance data

Sound pressure level 29 Lp(A) 10 m2 SAB

Water temperature in 59.0 °F From “beam calculation”

Water temperature out 66.5 °F Manufacturer’s performance data

Water flow rate 1.0 gpm Manufacturer’s performance data

Water pressure drop 6 ft Manufacturer’s performance data

Cooling capacity, air 2177 Btu/h From “beam calculation”

Cooling capacity, water 3721 Btu/h From “beam calculation”

Cooling capacity, beam 5898 Btu/h

Transfer effectiveness 59 Btu/h·cfm Cooling capacity / primary airflow

Height of occupied zone 4.0 ft Owner’s project requirements

Maximum air velocity in occupied zone 50 fpm Owner’s project requirements

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 Appendix A: Examples for I-P Applications

FIGURE A-5 Suggested layout for 29.53 × 20.34 ft room.

A.11 PATIENT ROOM EXAMPLE

A 280 ft2 patient room in a New York, NY hospital is to be heated and cooled by active beams.
Addendum h to ASHRAE/ANSI/ASHRAE Standard 170-2008, Ventilation of Health Care Facilities,
requires that a minimum of 2 ach of outdoor air be delivered to the space while room air recirculation
through the beams accounts for the additional 4 ach. Local velocities at the reclined patient level (3.5 ft)
are not to exceed 50 fpm.
The space sensible cooling and heating requirements are 6000 and 3700 Btu/h, respectively.

79
Active and Passive Beam Application Design Guide

Beam Selection Data and Layout

Because V1 exceeds V2, a beam or beams capable of satisfying the design sensible cooling
and heating loads with a primary airflow rate of 92 cfm would be desired. In addition, the beam(s)
must induce 186 cfm to comply with the referenced addendum. Hot water at 100°F will be deliv-
ered to the beams.
Manufacturer’s data indicates that one 6 ft long beam (with an induction ratio of 3.2), supplied with
92 cfm and 1.25 gpm of 59°F chilled water, will provide the required sensible cooling. The same beams
with 110°F hot water supplied at 1.25 gpm can deliver the required heating. The diagram below (Figure
A-6) illustrates the beam placement.

Discussion Points
When all-air VAV systems are used in patient rooms, a minimum of 6 ach must be delivered by
the air-handling unit at all times. When a supply air temperature of 60°F is used, this results a deliv-
ery of 378 cfm (8 ach) at design cooling conditions, but the supply air volume flow rate can never
be reduced below 6 ach. The reduced delivery results in a sensible cooling rate that remains 75% of
the design value. During periods where the space cooling demand is below 75% of the design
value, reheat of the supply air must be accomplished to offset the overcooling it provides.
The ventilation (primary) airflow rate (2 ach) of the beams provides only 25% of the space design
cooling; the remainder is provided by the beams’ coils. As such, the beam system can react to a 75%
reduction in space-cooling demand by simple modulation of the zone chilled-water flow rate (without
reheat).

FIGURE A-6 Diagram illustrating beam placement.

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 Appendix A: Examples for I-P Applications

TABLE A-11 Beam Selection Data and Layout (Patient Room Example)

Parameter Value Units Notes

Number of beams 1 —

Primary airflow 92 cfm From “beam calculation”

Primary air temperature 60 °F From “beam calculation”

Pressure drop 0.4 in.w.g. Manufacturer’s performance data

Sound pressure level 22 Lp(A) 10 m2 SAB

Water temperature in 59.0 °F From “beam calculation”

Water temperature out 63.5 °F Manufacturer’s performance data

Water flow rate 2.0 gpm Manufacturer’s performance data

Water pressure drop 5 ft. Manufacturer’s performance data

Cooling capacity, air 1540 Btu/h From “beam calculation”

Cooling capacity, water 4500 Btu/h From “beam calculation”

Cooling capacity, beam 6040 Btu/h

Transfer effectiveness 66 Btu/h·cfm Cooling capacity / primary airflow

Height of occupied zone 3.5 ft Owner’s project requirements

Maximum air velocity in occupied zone 50 fpm Owner’s project requirements

Space heating load 3700 Btu/h Dynamic simulation software

Ventilation air cooling contribution –1000 Btu/h

Coil sensible heating requirement 4700 Btu/h

83
 Appendix A: Examples for I-P Applications

TABLE A-13 Beam Selection Data and Layout (Hotel Room Example)

Parameter Value Units Notes

Number of beams 1 —

Primary airflow 83 cfm From “beam calculation”

Primary air temperature 55 °F From “beam calculation”

Pressure drop 0.3 in. w.c. Manufacturer’s performance data

Sound pressure level 24 Lp(A) 10 m2 SAB

Water temperature in 58.0 °F From “beam calculation”

Water temperature out 60.9 °F Manufacturer’s performance data

Water flow rate 1.33 gpm Manufacturer’s performance data

Water pressure drop 8.8 ft Manufacturer’s performance data

Cooling capacity, air 1827 Btu/h From “beam calculation”

Cooling capacity, water 1926 Btu/h From “beam calculation”

Cooling capacity, beam 3753 Btu/h

Transfer effectiveness 45 Btu/h·cfm Cooling capacity / primary airflow

Height of the occupied zone 1.8 ft Owner’s project requirements

Maximum air velocity in the occupied zone 50 fpm Owner’s project requirements

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Active and Passive Beam Application Design Guide

FIGURE A-7 Suggested layout visualisation for hotel room.

Discussion Points
In some applications, a fast temperature response may be required (e.g., to get the room to comfort
conditions after a room reservation is made in the front office system). In this situation, a larger beam
would be a solution.
Condensation detection is imperative, because of moisture transfer from the bathroom and the exis-
tence of operable windows.
To minimize reheating in nonoccupied hours, consider the following:

• Balanced supply and extract DCV solution

• Supplying air at a near-neutral temperature

Dust content from linen creates the requirement for regular vacuum cleaning of the water coil.

88
 Appendix B: Examples for SI Applications

TABLE B-2 Beam Selection Data and Layout for Cellular Office

Parameter Value Units Notes

Number of beams 1 —

Primary airflow 19 L/s From “beam calculation”

Primary air temperature 16 °C

Pressure drop 58 Pa

Sound pressure level <20 Lp(A) 4dB room attenuation

Water temperature in 16.0 °C From “beam calculation”

Water temperature out 18.0 °C

Water flow rate 0.074 L/s

Water pressure drop 11 kPa

Cooling capacity, air 200 W From “beam calculation”

Cooling capacity, water 600 W From “beam calculation”

Cooling capacity, beam 800 W

Transfer effectiveness 43 W/L·s Cooling capacity/primary airflow

Height of occupied zone 1.3 m

Maximum predicted velocity in occupied zone 0.20 m/s Owners project requirements

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Active and Passive Beam Application Design Guide

FIGURE B-1 Suggested layout visualisation for 3.75 × 4.4 m room.

Discussion Points
Given the high level of flexibility required for office buildings and also the very variable effective
occupancy that often occurs, the system must be conceived and dimensioned so that it is easily adapted
to different floor plan layouts and occupant densities. The following provisions should be made in
design:

• Adequate air distribution must be verified with and without room partitions, checking adequate air
distribution in critical points, namely where colliding airstreams occur.
• Design the primary air distribution system for variable airflow.

In the branch primary air duct for the beam, a motorized damper is installed. This motorized
damper is actuated to control the pressure in the beam plenum. The beam plenum pressure has two set-
points, one corresponding to occupied room, design conditions, and the other to unoccupied room. The
room occupancy is detected by a simple occupancy detector integrated in the beam.
In the unoccupied mode, adequate air distribution is not required; the beam selection only needs to
ensure adequate air distribution at design conditions.
The primary airflow required for dehumidification is proportional to the humidity ratio differ-
ence between indoor air and primary air; slightly increasing the allowable indoor air dew point or
slightly decreasing the primary air dew point can significantly reduce the primary airflow required
for dehumidification. On the other hand, because the chilled-water temperature supplied to the
beam must be at or above the indoor air dew point, increasing the indoor air dew point reduces the
beam water coil cooling capacity. The designer must balance these aspects when choosing these
parameters.

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Active and Passive Beam Application Design Guide

TABLE B-4 Beam Selection Data and Layout for Open-Office Plan

Parameter Value Units Notes

Number of beams 3 —

Primary airflow 54 L/s From “beam calculation”

Primary air temperature 17 °C

Pressure drop 72 Pa

Sound pressure level 28 Lp(A) 4 dB room attenuation

Water temperature in 14.0 °C From “beam calculation”

Water temperature out 17.0 °C

Water flow rate 0.095 L/s

Water pressure drop 6 kPa

Cooling capacity, air 1159 W From “beam calculation”

Cooling capacity, water 3341 W From “beam calculation”

Cooling capacity, beam 4500 W

Transfer effectiveness 84 W/L·s Cooling capacity/primary airflow

Height of occupied zone 1.3 m

Maximum predicted velocity in occupied zone 0.20 % Owners project requirements

FIGURE B-2 Suggested layout visualisation for open-office plan.

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Active and Passive Beam Application Design Guide

TABLE B-6 Beam Selection Data and Layout for Conference Room
Minimum Medium Maximum
Parameter Units Notes
Airflow Airflow Airflow

Number of beams 3 3 3 —

Primary airflow 9 25 45 L/s From “beam calculation”

Primary air temperature 14 14 14 °C

Pressure drop 116 116 116 Pa

Sound pressure level 18 32 32 Lp(A) 4 dB room attenuation

Water temperature in 16.0 16.0 16.0 °C From “beam calculation”

Water temperature out 16.7 18.0 19.4 °C

Water flow rate 0.05 0.05 0.05 L/s

Water pressure drop 5 5 5 kPa

Cooling capacity, air 345 990 1779 W From “beam calculation”

Cooling capacity, water 468 1284 2163 W From “beam calculation”

Cooling capacity, beam 813 2274 3942 W

Cooling capacity/
Transfer effectiveness 90 91 87 W/L·s
primary airflow

Height of occupied zone 1.3 1.3 1.3 m

Maximum predicted velocity Owners project

0.20 0.20 0.20 m/s
in occupied zone requirements

FIGURE B-3 Suggested layout visualisation for 7.9 × 5 m room.

100
 Appendix B: Examples for SI Applications

Discussion Points
Conference rooms have high primary airflows because of ventilation and dehumidification require-
ments, and, therefore, in design conditions, the percentage of cooling performed by air is bigger than in
other kind of rooms that require less primary airflow. This situation can only be avoided through the
supply of primary air close to the indoor air temperature, not be the best solution in terms of energy con-
sumption in a hot and humid climate like Hong Kong.
In this example, a primary air temperature of 14°C was chosen and, in design conditions, the per-
centage of cooling by air reaches 60%. Slightly over half of the sensible cooling load of the room is
associated with occupancy (persons and personal electronic equipment) and a demand-controlled venti-
lation (DCV) system was adopted, modulating the primary airflow according to CO2 measurement in
the indoor air. Thus, this additional cooling by air occurs only when required.
Early condensation detection overrides the DCV control and forces maximum primary airflow,
stopping condensate formation.
With this design and control strategy, most of the working hours in which the conference room is
unoccupied or has less than design occupancy, the primary airflow is kept to a minimum, and almost all
of the cooling is performed by the water coil. The primary airflow will automatically rise with the rise in
the number of occupants, delivering the cooling by air only when required and avoiding reheat energy
consumption.
Because the room can be occupied in times when the primary airflow is significantly reduced from
the design airflow, the beams selected must be able to promote adequate air distribution in the pre-
viewed range of primary airflows.

B.4 LABORATORY EXAMPLE

B.4.1 Design Conditions

A 56 m2 laboratory in New Delhi, India is considering using active beams. The ceiling height
is 3 m, façade height is 4.6 m per floor, and the space has a 9 m linear exposure. The maximum
infiltration rate is estimated to be 38 L/s (0.9 L/s·m2 of façade). Outdoor air design conditions are
defined in the 2009 ASHRAE Handbook—Fundamentals. A 1.0% design criterion has been adopted
for the sensible and latent cooling load calculations. Heating is to be supplied by a decoupled low-
level heating system. Six people normally occupy the space. The minimum occupied air change
rate is 6 ach.
The sensible cooling load was determined (using dynamic building simulation software) to be
10200 W (182 W/m2). The room latent load is the sum of its internal and external latent gains. Per the
owner’s project requirement, the laboratory is to be maintained at 24°C and a maximum relative humid-
ity of 55%. Local velocities at the bench top (1.2 m) level are not to exceed 0.25 m/s.

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Active and Passive Beam Application Design Guide

Beam Selection Data and Layout

Because V1 slightly exceeds V2, beams capable of satisfying the design sensible cooling load
(10200 W) with a primary airflow rate of 280 L/s are desired.
Manufacturer’s data indicates that 6 beams, each 1.8 m long, supplied with 15°C chilled water at
water flow rates of 0.0631 L/h each will provide the required water-side sensible cooling.

TABLE B-8 Beam Selection Data and Layout (Laboratory Example)

Parameter Value Units Notes

Number of beams 6 —

Primary airflow 47 L/s From “beam calculation”

Primary air temperature 13 °C Owners project requirements

Pressure drop 122 Pa Manufacture’s performance data

Sound pressure level 35 Lp(A) Includes 10 dB room attenuation

Water temperature in 15.0 °C From “beam calculation”

Water temperature out 19.2 °C Manufacture's performance data

Water flow rate 0.0631 L/s Manufacture's performance data

Water pressure drop 20.6 kPa Manufacture's performance data

Cooling capacity, air 3696 W From “beam calculation”

Cooling capacity, water 6504 W From “beam calculation”

Cooling capacity, beams 10200 W

Transfer effectiveness 219 W/L·s Cooling capacity/primary airflow

Height of occupied zone 1.2 m Owners project requirements

Maximum velocity in occupied zone 0.25 m/s Owners project requirements

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 Appendix B: Examples for SI Applications

FIGURE B-4 Suggested layout visualisation for 9.00 × 6.20 m room.

Beams with a T0.25 of 4.8 m or less may be selected and located above the two outdoor lab
benches, as illustrated below. Manufacturer’s data indicates a T0.25 value of 3.7 m; thus, the selection
is appropriate.
Note that an all-air variable-air-volume (VAV) system supplying air at 13°C would have required
757 L/s to meet the design sensible cooling load of the space, according to the following equation:

L/s ALL AIR = LSENS/[1.2 × (DBIDA – DBSA)] = 10200/(1.2 × 20) = 757 L/s

B.5 PATIENT ROOM EXAMPLE

A 37 m2 patient room in a Berlin hospital is to be heated and cooled by active beams. Heating is
supplemental only, because there are two radiant heating panels below the windows. Addendum A to
EN 15251:2012, Indoor Environmental Input Parameters for Design Assessment of Energy Perfor-
mance of Buildings Addressing Indoor Air Quality, Thermal Environment, Lighting and Acoustics,
requires that a minimum of 10 L/s per person of outdoor air plus 0.5 L/s·m2 be delivered to the space.
Local velocities at the reclined patient level (1,1 m) shall not exceed 0.18 m/s .
The space sensible cooling and heating requirements are 2100 W and 1800 W, respectively.

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Active and Passive Beam Application Design Guide

TABLE B-10 Beam Selection Data and Layout (Patient Room Example)

Parameter Value Units Notes

Number of beams 2 — Manufacturer's performance data

Total primary airflow 69 L/s From “beam calculation”

Primary air temperature 16 °C Owners project requirements

Pressure drop 90 Pa Manufacturer’s performance data

Total sound power level 31 Lw(A) Manufacturer’s performance data

Water temperature in 16.0 °C From “beam calculation”

Water temperature out 18.8 °C Manufacturer’s performance data

Total water flow rate 0.1222 L/s Manufacturer’s performance data

Water pressure drop 12.7 kPa Manufacturer’s performance data

Total cooling capacity, air 668 W From “beam calculation”

Total cooling capacity, water 1,440 W From “beam calculation”

Total cooling capacity, beam 2108 W Manufacturer’s performance data

Transfer effectiveness 31 W/L·s Cooling capacity/primary airflow

Height of the occupied zone 1.1 m Owners project requirements

Maximum air velocity in occupied zone 0.15 m/s Owners project requirements

Total space heating requirement 1800 W Dynamic simulation software

Radiant panels contribution 800 W Dynamic simulation software

Primary air cooling contribution –500 W Calculation

Coil heating requirement 1600 W Owners project requirements

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 Appendix B: Examples for SI Applications

FIGURE B-5 Suggested layout visualisation for 6.44 × 5.79 m room.

Beams capable of satisfying the design sensible cooling and heating loads with a primary airflow
rate of 69 L/s each are desired.
Manufacturer’s data indicates that two 1.5 m long beams, supplied with, in total, 69 L/s of primary
air and 0.1222 L/s of 16°C chilled water, will provide the required sensible cooling. The same beams
with 35°C hot water supplied at 0.061 L/s can deliver the required heating.

Discussion Points
The ventilation (primary) airflow rate (1.8 ach) of the beams provides only 31% of the space
design cooling; the remainder is provided by the beam’s coil. As such, the beam system can react to
a 69% reduction in space cooling demand by simple modulation of the zone chilled-water flow rate
(without reheat).

B.6 HOTEL ROOM EXAMPLE

The room is a hotel room in Lisbon, with one exterior wall facing west with one 3.6 m2 window
with two panes of clear glass and interior shading. The room has an area of 24 m2 (6 × 4 m) and a ceil-
ing height of 2.8 m.

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Active and Passive Beam Application Design Guide

TABLE B-11 DID 632 Calculation

Parameter Value Units Notes

Number of beams 2 — Manufacturer’s performance data

Total primary airflow 69 l/s From “beam calculation”

Primary air temperature 16 °C Owners project requirements

Pressure drop 90 Pa Manufacturer’s performance data

Total sound power level 31 Lw(A) Manufacturer’s performance data

Water temperature in 16.0 °C From “beam calculation”

Water temperature out 18.8 °C Manufacturer’s performance data

Total water flow rate 0.1222 l/s Manufacturer’s performance data

Water pressure drop 12.7 kPa Manufacturer’s performance data

Total cooling capacity, air 668 W From “beam calculation”

Total cooling capacity, water 1,440 W From “beam calculation”

Total cooling capacity, beam 2,108 W Manufacturer’s performance data

Transfer effectiveness 31 W/(l/s) Cooling capacity/primary airflow

Height of the occupied zone 1.1 m Owner’s project requirements

Maximum air velocity in occupied zone 0.15 m/s Owner’s project requirements

Total space heating requirement 1800 W Dynamic simulation software

Radiant panels contribution 800 W Dynamic simulation software

Primary air cooling contribution –500 W Calculation

Coil heating requirement 1600 W Owner’s project requirements

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Active and Passive Beam Application Design Guide

TABLE B-13 Beam Selection Data and Layout (Hotel Room Example)

Parameter Value Units Notes

Number of beams 1 —

Primary airflow 33 L/s From “beam calculation”

Primary air temperature 14 °C

Pressure drop 75 Pa

Sound pressure level 24 Lp(A) 10 m2 SAB

Water temperature in 15.0 °C From “beam calculation”

Water temperature out 17.0 °C

Water flow rate 0.084 L/s

Water pressure drop 26.4 kPa

Cooling capacity, air 394 W From “beam calculation”

Cooling capacity, water 706 W From “beam calculation”

Cooling capacity, beam 1100 W

Transfer effectiveness 33 W/L·s Cooling capacity / primary airflow

Height of occupied zone 1.8 m

Maximum predicted DR 20 % Owners project requirements

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 Appendix B: Examples for SI Applications

The same beams with 45°C hot water supplied at 0,022 L/s, 1.9 kPa, can deliver the required heating.

TABLE B-14 Beam Selection Data and Layout (Hotel Room Example)

Description Symbol Value Units Formula/Source

Space heating load LHEAT 900 W Dynamic simulation software

Ventilation air cooling contribution LSENSPA 0 W Neutral primary air

Total coil sensible heating required LSENSHW 900 W LHEAT – LSENSPA

Individual coil heating capacity QCOIL 910 W Manufacturer’s data

FIGURE B-6 Suggested layout visualisation for hotel room.

Discussion Points
In some applications, a fast temperature response may be required (e.g., to get the room to comfort
conditions after a room reservation is made in the front office system). In this situation, a larger beam
would be a solution. Another solution is to have VAV primary air and supply maximum primary boosted
airflow for a short period of time before occupancy.
Condensation detection is imperative, because of moisture transfer from the bathroom and the exis-
tence of operable windows.
To minimize reheating in nonoccupied hours, consider the following:

• Balanced supply and extract DCV solution

• Supplying air at a near-neutral temperature

Dust content from linen creates the requirement for regular vacuum cleaning of the water coil.
During selection, adopting a larger cooling water temperature  T (e.g., 3 K) would result in lower
pressure drop and lower water flow.

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