CCME - July 2010

AD launches wastewater regulation Perma-Pipe in Dammam initiative

JuLY 2010

Getting the ribbon

in place

Qatar prepares to…

Inaugurate the world’s single largest DCP Host IDEA’s fifth International District Cooling Conference & Trade Show

Supplement:

Perspective: Mapping the underworld without excavation Spotlight on Masood Raza, PAL Technology Plus Marketplace, comings and goings events watch

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this month

Vol. 5 No. 07 | JuLY 2010

06 editorial

The benefits in ‘switching off’

07 15 16

happenings

The region Comings and goings At large

18 MARKETPLACE 22 advertorial A Zen for solutions

Zenersol strongly believes that an efficient district cooling scheme is only as good as the quality of the metering and billing regimen in place.

24 factory focus Sound attenuators on the shop floor

26

IDEA once again spotlights energy efficiency at annual conference

Climate Control Middle East visits the Aldes Middle East factory, which opened in the thick of the downturn and is determined to see the tough times through.

26 cover story

IDEA’s 101st Annual Conference & Trade Show

34 insight Mapping the underworld without

excavation

Locating buried infrastructure for utility management, especially in crowded urban environments, is a challenge, as existing techniques have limitations.

37 recruitment 38 perspective The race to slash energy consumption

With rising levels of energy consumption and forecasts of an increase in peak electricity demand by 12% for 2012, energy reduction is the top priority in the UAE.

42 endpoint Masood Raza

He says that while district cooling is based on sound techno-commercial principles, which are independent of an economic boom or downturn, the industry is not without its fair share of challenges.

10

24

34

42

46 EVENTS WATCH

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CLIMATE CONTROL MIDDLE EAST

July 2010

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CALL: +971 4 3756830 www.cpi-industry.com

editorial

Publisher Dominic De Sousa Managing Director & Associate Publisher Frédéric Paillé | fred@cpi-industry.com

The benefits in ‘switching off’

A

gainst the baseline level of 1998, the Dubai Chamber of Commerce and Industry building has been able to achieve a 77% reduction in water and a 47% reduction in electrical consumption.

The 15-year-old building, along the creek in the historical Deira part of Dubai, is the first LEED EB in the Arab world.

Jagath Gunawardena, its Manager (Projects and Building Development), says that the building has been able to achieve an 8-9% reduction in operating cost, a 7.5% increase in building value and an accumulated savings of Dh7.1 million since 1998.

The Chamber building is an example of a client showing faith in facilities management to achieve power efficiency and water efficiency. According to industry figures, facilities management has a 70% impact on the efficient running of a building and even its aspiration for green building status. Gunawardena vouches for that by saying that in an EB certification process the role of a facilities manager is crucial.

Generally, he says, the onus is on the facilities manager to regularly re-commission and retrofit the building, to regularly analyse data and to switch off equipment when not necessary. Switching off, he says, is not something that can be flippantly dismissed as a minor exercise in savings. His words resonate with what another building in Dubai achieved through switching off its chillers and FAHUs in the night – a savings of 15% every year. The fact that the owner of the building achieved this without investing anything and by merely operating the facility the way it should be operated is noteworthy.

In that context, building owners, consultants and contractors would probably do well to consider involving an FM specialist from the design stage of a building through to its hand over, a practice that is “more honour’d in the breach than the observance”, to quote Shakespeare. Other less-than-ideal situations include the overdesign of MEP (usually 200% of HVAC), lack of MEP knowledge in BMS design personnel and the fact that designers of a building never return to evaluate its performance and negative features and, worse, go on to replicate the design, replete with mistakes.

Thrift, planning, history and collaboration are mind-entities worth their weight in gold.

B Surendar

Editorial Director & Associate Publisher B Surendar | surendar@cpi-industry.com Associate Editor Jose Franco | jose@cpi-industry.com Contributing Editors Anoop K Menon | anoop@cpi-industry.com Pratibha Umashankar prati@cpi-industry.com Business Development Manager Vedran Dedic vedran@cpi-industry.com Events / Marketing Manager Deep Karani | deep@cpi-industry.com Design Rey Delante | rey@cpi-industry.com Webmaster Troy Maagma | troy@cpidubai.com Database/ Subscriptions Manager Purwanti Srirejeki purwanti@cpi-industry.com ADVERTISING ENQUIRIES Frédéric Paillé: +971 50 7147204 fred@cpi-industry.com Vedran Dedic: +971 50 5574019 vedran@cpi-industry.com USA and Canada Kanika Saxena Director (North America) 25 Kingsbridge Garden Cir Suite 919 Mississauga, ON, Canada L5R 4B1 kanika@cpi-industry.com Tel/fax: +1 905 890 5031 China Sean Xiao Hui China Business Media Group Room 403, Block 17, Wuyimingzhu, No 6 Jinshan Road, Fuzhou, Fujian, 350008, China Tel: +86 591 8386 3000 Published by

Head Office PO Box 13700 Dubai, UAE Tel: +971 4 375 68 30 Fax: +971 4 43 419 06 Web: www.cpi-industry.com Printed by: Excel Printing Press, Sharjah, UAE © Copyright 2010 CPI. All rights reserved.

While the publishers have made every effort to ensure the accuracy of all information in this magazine, they will not be held responsible for any errors therein.

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6

CLIMATE CONTROL MIDDLE EAST

Did you know that Climate Control Middle East is also available electronically? Get a digitised copy of the magazine every month, before the issue goes for print!

As a bonus, the digital version includes such features as a keyword search, annotation, highlight, notemaking and hot links. For more details, please access www.cpi-industry.com/digital (Zinio is a digital publishing firm based in the USA.) July 2010

happenings DSI lands two MEP contracts

Claims 240 million-worth contracts will leverage its market share in Abu Dhabi

A

ccording to a statement by Drake & Scull International, it has recently won the contract for the complete mechanical, electrical and plumbing (MEP) works for two major projects in Abu Dhabi – Saadiyat Beach Apartments project and a government building project – worth a combined value of Dh240 million.

Commenting on this, Khaldoun Tabari, CEO, DSI,

said: “We are very pleased to continuously work on domestic projects in a city that has contributed so greatly to the 40 years of experience which we have gathered in the MEP field. We have always seen Abu Dhabi as a lucrative market, and our expectations of projects in the pipeline have indeed been fulfilled.”

DSI reports that it will begin work immediately on the Saadiyat Beach

Apartments Plot SB19 project located on Saadiyat Island, Abu Dhabi. The series of beachside apartments, which are being developed by the Tourism Development & Investment Company (TDIC), will provide living spaces in private gated communities, with options ranging from studios to multiple bedroom apartments.

The project is scheduled for completion in December

the region

2011. The scope of work for DSI will include supply, installation, testing and commissioning of the entire electro-mechanical works.

According to DSI, it will simultaneously start the MEP works for the government building project, which will be completed by June 2012, and will include a total built-up area of 106,670 square metres.

“These two recent project wins bring the total value of contracts awarded to us this year to Dh1.4 billion,” said Tabari, and added, “Aside from this being a marked accomplishment for the company, we expect that this will also aid in boosting our returns towards the end of the financial year.”

Rakeen enters the last stretch of construction work on Al Marjan Island Infrastructure services to be ready by 2012

P

lanner and property developer, Rakeen, has announced completion of 80% of infrastructure work on Al Marjan Island, in what is claimed to be the first-of-its-kind, man-made island in Ras Al Khaimah.

According to Rakeen, the project is on track for its targeted completion date in 2012. The company further revealed that infrastructure services, such as potable water system, irrigation system, storm water system, rising main system and vacuum system will be ready by the time the first development projects on the island are completed.

Phase 1 of the infrastructure work, consisting of Peninsula Islands 1 and 2, was awarded to Kumho Industrial from South Korea, which started construction work in September 2008. Phase 2, consisting of Peninsula Islands 3 and 4, was awarded to Italian contractor, Rizzani De Eccher, and work commenced in November 2009.

Speaking on the progress of the project, Yahia Kambris, Technical

Director, Rakeen, said: “Construction work has progressed according to schedule, and we are on track to complete all infrastructure work in 18 months. The first development projects to be completed on the island will then be able to hook up to the infrastructure services and enjoy various amenities on the island. As we enter the final stretch of construction work, there has been a growing excitement among future residents of Al Marjan Island, as various sections of the prestigious development now begin to take shape.”

Continuing on the subject, he added, “In line with Rakeen’s core values of sustainability, responsibility and prosperity, Al Marjan Island is being developed to be one of the most Artist’s attractive communities in the region, impression with a serene and optimised living of Al Marjan environment that provides a perfect Island balance between life and work.”

Rakeen reported that the $1.8 billion (Dh6.6 billion) Al Marjan Island, one of covering over 2.7 million square metres the major projects of Rakeen, consists and extending up to four kilometres into of five man-made coral-shaped islands, the Arabian Gulf.

July 2010

CLIMATE CONTROL MIDDLE EAST

7

happenings

the region

Abu Dhabi launches region’s first framework for wastewater regulation Two regulations in place for responsible and efficient use of effluent water

T

he Regulation and Supervision Bureau (RSB), the independent regulatory body for the water, wastewater and electricity sector of Abu Dhabi, has announced the launch of two important new regulations – Trade Effluent Control Regulations 2010 and Recycled Water and Biosolids Regulations 2010. They came into effect from June 1, and concludes a three-year consultation process across the wastewater sector.

According to the RSB, the Trade Effluent Control Regulations govern all nondomestic discharges into the capital’s sewerage system.

Under the new regulations, wastewater operating companies, including ADSSC and ZonesCorp, are empowered to require companies to obtain consent for their wastewater, before discharging it into the sewerage system. Sewerage services companies are also required to maintain trade effluent registers recording the activities of organisations discharging wastewater into the system.

The RSB contends that, earlier there were no formal controls over what businesses were allowed to discharge.

This posed a risk to the wastewater treatment system and to the environment. But this issue can be effectively addressed with the Trade Effluent Control Regulations in place.

Similarly, the Recycled Water and Biosolids Regulations 2010, has been introduced to ensure, for the first time, the standards 8

CLIMATE CONTROL MIDDLE EAST

of treated wastewater in Abu Dhabi. The RSB claims that these standards will maximise the opportunity to reuse products in environmentally beneficial ways, as recycled water and biosolids are the treated products of the wastewater treatment process, and a valuable resource for meeting Abu Dhabi’s sustainable development goals.

As per the regulation, sewerage services companies are now required to guarantee the quality of the wastewater delivered to users. This quality assurance will increase the use of recycled water and biosolids.

According to the RSB, the increase can provide useful material for soil improvement and help reduce demand for energy-intensive desalination.

Following the launch of the two regulations, the RSB stated that it will draw up compliance programmes with all relevant licensees to ensure they conform to the regulations within the appropriate timeframe.

The RSB has revealed the following regulation consultation timetable and key objectives to elucidate how the regulation process was achieved: • September 2007: Initiation meeting with ADSSC, EAD, the Abu Dhabi Municipality Parks and Recreational Facilities Department • June-July 2008: The first public consultation to establish need for regulation: 10 documents issued, plus press notice. Received 12 detailed responses • December 2008-May 2009: Regulatory Impact July 2010

Assessment carried out by independent consultants • April-May 2009: The second public consultation – consultation on draft regulations; 20 hard copies issued to licensees and government agencies.

Range of e-mails sent; consultation advertised on website. Received 25 detailed responses • March-April 2010: The final consultation on draft regulations and guidance documents – targeting licensees and key stakeholders; 19 formal responses sent and posted on website. Received 13 formal responses • March 2010: Consultation Workshop conducted with 37 attendees plus 10 bureau representatives • 1 June 2010: Launch of regulations Regulation and Supervision Bureau timeline: • Established in 1999 to ensure the safe, reliable and efficient delivery of power, water and wastewater services in Abu Dhabi • Consults closely and continuously with companies operating in these sectors to control prices, issue regulations and ensures compliance and investigates any health or safety incidents Key objectives: • To ensure that future capacity and product availability match customer demand and meets the 2030 Government Strategic Vision • To promote optimal utilisation of water, wastewater and electricity • To minimise unit costs at

all levels • To ensure that quality-ofservice standards are met at all times • To promote health and safety standards involving all stakeholders • To minimise environmental impact from the activities of the sector In the context of announcing the regulations, Nick Carter, Director General of the RSB, said: “These two regulations are among the most important the Bureau has issued since we were established, over 10 years ago. As the emirate continues with its ambitious plans for growth, these regulations mark a key milestone in the supply of wastewater products. Under the governance of a panel drawn from experts within the sector and from licencees, Abu Dhabi now has a mechanism in place to ensure the highest international standards of recycled water and biosolids. This is helped, in part, by a check for the first time on what businesses are putting into the sewerage system.”

Dubbing the consultation process long and thorough, Carter added: “I would like to thank all those who have contributed towards making these regulations as relevant and workable as possible.

With input from such a broad range of interested parties, we have strong support from within the sector for the new legal framework.

We look forward to working closely with all wastewater licencees, to ensure effective compliance.”

advertorial

Commitment to customer satisfaction

Protection of the environment, efficient system solutions and long-term operating safety are at the core of Güntner Middle East’s approach to customers.

T

he Güntner Group, with its headquarters in Fürstenfeldbruck, Germany, is a global leader in the production of refrigeration and air conditioning components.

Decades of experience in the sector and consistent integration of innovative technologies and research have ensured that the Güntner solutions are in accordance with UL, DIN EN ISO 9001, Eurovent, ASME B31.5, AHRI and ASHRAE. Its operators include, among others, the international automotive, food, pharmaceutical and computer industries, as well as a large number of public facilities.

Founded in Germany in 1931, the Güntner Group has nine production sites as well as 40 sales offices and subsidiaries worldwide. For instance, its heat exchanging technologies come out of production centres in Mexico,

Germany, Hungary, Russia and Indonesia.

The company’s primary objective is to ensure that the highest customer satisfaction is achieved, and is the standard for all its activities.

Ensuring cost efficiency and regulation of equipment using state-of-the-art operating facilities and having a special focus on its employees are factors that have made the Güntner Group an indispensable partner for its customers.

The Güntner Group takes its responsibility towards the environment and society seriously. Protection of the environment is an integral part of the Güntner philosophy.

Efficient system solutions, with a long-term operating safety, are therefore, in place to make sure that the world’s resources are treated with care and that health and quality of life are protected. Güntner

uses natural refrigerants and focuses on an operational system in order to enhance performance and efficiency.

For the Güntner Group, assuming responsibility means that it will always be partial to environmentally friendly refrigerants and energy-efficient systems for a clean conscience concerning the environment and for achieving lower operating costs. The company ensures that all natural refrigerants occur in the natural cycle of substances without human intervention. They are not broken down in the ozone layer, have no direct greenhouse effect and are energy efficient.

Güntner’s commitment to continuous progress in its activities ensures an ongoing and long-term success for its customers and partners.

Customers that would like to learn more about the

Asia

Americas

Industrial refrigeration

Commercial refrigeration

HVAC

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company and the products are invited to visit <www. guentner.de>. The technical support at the Güntner Middle East Office will be happy to be of assistance.

Europe, Middle East, Africa

Location: Güntner AG & Co KG Office A 505, Dubai Silicon Oasis, Dubai Mailing address: PO Box 341179, Dubai, UAE. Phone: +971 4 371 28 21 Fax: +971 4 371 28 29 E-mail: s.konken@guentner,de July 2010

CLIMATE CONTROL MIDDLE EAST

9

happenings

the region

Perma-Pipe to have a new manufacturing plant in Dammam The new facility will serve GCC region and nearby countries

P

erma-Pipe, a subsidiary of MFRI, Inc, recently announced that its Board of Directors has approved the establishment of an additional insulated pipe manufacturing plant to be located in Dammam, Saudi Arabia, to serve the GCC region and nearby countries. The plant will be developed and operated by Perma-Pipe’s subsidiary, Perma-Pipe Middle East, (PPME) in tandem with its existing plant in the UAE. According to MFRI, a site has been leased in Dammam Industrial Area, and the detailed plant engineering and design are currently in progress. The new manufacturing facility, stated MFRI, will serve the requirements of the oil and gas industry as well as the growing market for district cooling networks in the Kingdom.

As per a statement by MFRI, Perma-

Pipe Saudi Arabia, (PPSA) will feature Perma-Pipe’s Xtru-Therm automated spray polyurethane insulation and several jacketing systems, including Polyethylene, metal and FRP, offering a comprehensive product range. PPSA will also be equipped to custom-manufacture pipe spools and a complete range of preinsulated fittings.

The company has reportedly received an industrial license and the required commercial registration and expects the plant to be fully operational in 2011.

“We eagerly anticipate this major strategic initiative, which will address the largest market in the GCC countries,” said Fati Elgendy, President, Perma-Pipe.

“Perma-Pipe Saudi Arabia will serve the KSA district heating and cooling and oil and gas markets in this important and rapidly growing economy. Furthermore,

in conjunction with our facility in the United Arab Emirates, the company will be well-positioned to serve customers throughout the region.”

Avin Gidwani, President, Perma-Pipe Middle East, added: “The facility is within 20 miles of ARAMCO and very close to Qatar, Kuwait and Bahrain.

PPSA fills in our Middle East expansion strategy. Perma-Pipe has successfully served Saudi Arabia since the 1970s, and is currently supplying several major projects in the country from our UAE facility. Prominent among the projects currently being supplied in Saudi Arabia is the Princess Noura University, an entirely new university campus exclusively for women. Through PPSA we look forward to expanding our share of this very large market, as well as adjacent areas in the GCC.”

Al-Futtaim Engineering announces bagging contract to supply Sanyo air conditioners

A

l-Futtaim Engineering recently announced being awarded a contract to supply 14,000 units of Sanyo air conditioners for the Al Razeen Labour City at Al Wathba, Abu Dhabi, for the

10

CLIMATE CONTROL MIDDLE EAST

Abu Dhabi General Services Company (Musanada).

The contract from the International Construction Company (ICC) was reportedly signed in Abu Dhabi, in the presence of senior management

July 2010

personnel of Al-Futtaim Engineering and ICC. Seen in the picture following the signing are (from right) Rajesh Bhatia, Divisional Manager, A/C Division, Al-Futtaim Engineering; Dawood Bin

Ozair, Managing Director, Al-Futtaim Engineering; Fuad Mashal, CEO, ICC; Farhat Noor Khan, Regional Sales Manager, Abu Dhabi, Al-Futtaim Engineering and Shadi Shadi, Sales Engineer, Al-Futtaim Engineering.

happenings

the region

Trane adds EC fan motor technology to chilled water terminals

Claims that new technology is more energy efficient than conventional motors

D

ubbing it as a move to meet building owners’ demand for increased energy efficiency throughout the HVAC system, Trane has announced that it is now applying electronic commutation (EC) fan motor technology throughout its range of chilled water terminals. The company claims that the technology offers office buildings and hotels substantial energy savings and improved user comfort.

According to Trane, EC motors using electronic commutation of motor windings require four times less energy (Watt) than conventional alternating current (AC) motors in the low speed range. While AC fan motors run on fixed speeds, EC fan motors run at all speeds throughout the entire operating range of the unit, with the motor rpmcontrolled via a 0 to10 Volt signal from a unit controller. Without perceptible sound shift, when modulating the fan speed, to adapt to minimum cooling and heating load variations, increased acoustic and thermal comfort is ensured, Trane asserted.

Trane says that it has, therefore,

incorporated the new technology into three types of terminal units: the new horizontal concealed fan coil FED; U-Line units and the chilled water cassette CWE. The FED, Trane further says, is a straight-through fan coil unit that offers up to 100 pa of static pressure within several configurations of coils, plenums, electric heaters and water valves from 0.6 to 4.0 kW within a range of four sizes. The U-Line models’ innovative “u-turn” airflow pattern, claims Trane, fits buildings where individual offices of 10 to 30 m² are grouped along a building’s perimeter. Both FED and U-Line have a slim shape (225 mm high) that makes them suited for concealed installation in office buildings and hotels, Trane further claims.

The third Trane terminal unit with CE fan motor technology, the new chilled water cassette CWE, is reportedly available from 1.5 to 11 kW and comes in five sizes. The system fits seamlessly in all kinds of suspended ceilings in retail or office buildings, adds Trane.

According to the announcement, the new terminal units can be factorymounted and configured with the

Trane Tracer ZN525 controller. The new controller maximises EC fan motor technology performance by providing an average of five per cent additional power consumption savings on an annual basis. According to the announcement, it also controls the fan speed to adapt to exact cooling and heating loads of individual rooms or zones in the building, improving room temperature and acoustic comfort.

Commenting on Trane adopting EC fan motor technology, Franck Biegalke, Applied Integrated Systems Leader for Trane Europe, Middle East, India and Africa, said: “Building and hotel owners can reduce energy bills for their airconditioned spaces by up to 90% by incorporating Trane terminal units with EC motor technology into their HVAC system. This technology will help ensure lower electricity cost, thereby limiting impact on the cost of ownership. This will keep rent rates stable for years.

In addition, with energy regulations becoming ever more stringent, investing in EC fan motor terminals today will guarantee the value of building assets for years to come.”

Empower-Logstor joint venture goes on steam Targets district cooling and oil and gas industry

E Ahmad Bin Shafar

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CLIMATE CONTROL MIDDLE EAST

lips, a joint venture between Emirates Central Cooling Systems Corporation (Empower) and Logstor, manufacturer of insulated pipes, recently announced starting its operations.

The pipes are designed to build district cooling networks and for use in the oil and gas industry.

In this context, Ahmad

July 2010

Bin Shafar, Chairman, Elips, said, “The largest manufacturer of preinsulated pipes in the UAE provides a golden opportunity for district cooling and oil and gas companies to acquire fair-priced pre-insulated pipes that are on par with international standards.”

He added, “Benefiting

from its location in Jebel Ali Industrial area, Elips provides easy access to both Dubai and Abu Dhabi markets, which are one of the biggest markets for district cooling and oil and gas sectors in the region.”

Elips is one of 10 factories worldwide partially owned by Logstor.

the region

Twin industry events post 70% booking Reflect Saudi construction sector’s resurgence with lineup of over 720 projects.

A

ccording to a recent statement issued by Saudi Build and Saudi Stone-Tech, the Kingdom of Saudi Arabia’s current lineup of construction developments includes over 720 projects spanning the commercial, education, healthcare, leisure and residential segments, and collectively budgeted at more than SAR1.6 trillion.

These account for more than 25% of construction activities in the Gulf, making the Kingdom the region’s largest construction market.

This is reflected in the growing interest in Saudi Build 2010, the 22nd International Construction Technology and Building Materials Exhibition, and Saudi Stone-Tech, the 13th International Stone and Stone Technology Show, said Riyadh Exhibitions Company, the organiser of the two events.

The events, which are slated to run simultaneously at the Riyadh International Convention & Exhibition Centre, from October 18 to 21, are already 70% booked and expected to draw thousands of professional trade visitors, the organiser claimed. It also confirms the participation of 42 national pavilions, with Belgium, Egypt, the UK, France and Taiwan joining for the first time and contributing to a 12% increase in international participation.

Commenting on this, Shahid Bhatti, Project Manager, Saudi Build and Saudi Stone-Tech at Riyadh Exhibitions Company, said: “Saudi Build 2010 and Saudi Stone-Tech 2010 are still a few months away, and yet we have already received numerous inquiries and advanced confirmations. This is indicative of how Saudi Arabia has emerged as the leader in Gulf construction and property development.

Last year, the domestic construction business posted a real growth of 3.9 per cent amidst the crisis. Given the more positive outlook for the global economy this year, we can expect even more local and foreign investments into one of the Kingdom’s strongest economic sectors, with Saudi Build 2010 and Saudi Stone-Tech 2010 serving as an important preview of construction opportunities.”

Saudi Build 2010 and Saudi Stone-

Tech 2010 are business-to-business construction events in the Gulf, and will gather exhibitors from Europe, Africa, the Middle East, and Asia. According to Riyadh Exhibitions Company, the events will feature around 30,000 square metres of dedicated indoor and outdoor exhibition areas for stone, heavy machinery and

Shahid Bhatti, Project Manager of Saudi Build and Saudi Stone-Tech at Riyadh Exhibitions Company.

construction equipment. It further claims that it is the only construction trade show in Saudi Arabia accredited

by UFI, the Global Association of the Exhibition Industry.

July 2010

CLIMATE CONTROL MIDDLE EAST

13

happenings

the region

CNME’s ICT Achievement Awards 2010 slated for October 17 inaugural awards ceremony will bring together prominent industry stakeholders from across the region

T

he Middle East is slowly emerging from a period in history that will always be associated with the economic downturn – a setback that affected industries across the region. ICT budgets and the larger ICT industry have not been immune to the seismic changes that followed in its wake.

As we see signs of recovery, we also see emerging from each one of the industries in the sector, samples of IT process usage and application methodology in attaining work, reaching targets and ensuring business productivity – a phenomenon that we are unlikely to see during boom time. It is, therefore, in the fitness of things that such achievements should be recognised and awarded. The ICT Achievement Awards 2010, initiated by Computer

News ME (CNME), has taken a decisive step in this direction.

The magazine will commend the hard-won successes of individuals and organisations from the Middle East. It will honour the achievers and trend-setters of the IT industry of the region, who have come through the difficult time as shining examples to their peers.

The inaugural awards ceremony is slated to be held on October 17 – the first day of GITEX Technology Week – at the Jumeirah Beach Hotel, Dubai, and will bring together prominent industry stakeholders from across the region. The objective of the event is to recognise the accomplishments of outstanding end-users and IT vendors across 20 different categories. It will cover everything from projects actualised under

duress, challenges faced and overcome, smart uses of shortening budgets, solutions tweaked to address changing requirements, astute use of best practices and global standards, as well as other skills and intelligent use of resources by end-users, solution providers and service providers over the last 12 months.

Following are the awards categories: • Deployment Awards • Government deployment of the year • Hospitality and tourism deployment of the year • Energy sector deployment of the year • Construction and real estate deployment of the year • Education deployment of the year • BFSI deployment of the year

About CNME

Computer News Middle East (CNME) is CPI’s flagship technology publication. Over the last 20 years, the premier ‘technology in business’ magazine of the Middle East has built a reputation as the dominant publication in its category, forming, as it does, a bridge between the enterprise end-user and the vendors who operate in the market. It has become the voice that regional C-level executives across regional enterprise listen to when they want to make a technology investment, learn about deployment best practices, understand how to improve business efficiency and plan for a technology-associated profitable future. This year’s CNME’s ICT Achievement Awards will be the first by the title.

About CPI

CPI is a partner for the region with IDG, the world’s largest ICT publishing house. As part of a family of more than 300 magazines globally, CPI is uniquely positioned to take local news to the world stage and bring world news and comment to the local market.

With local editions of world-class and industry leading titles like Computerworld (as Computer News Middle East, Network World and CSO (as Security Advisor Middle East) CPI has a reputation for quality with one of the industry’s leading players.

More than 100 million people in 85 countries read IDG’s publications. Providing locally produced content to technology decision-makers worldwide, IDG is able to inform and educate local audiences about the impact of technology in their particular markets. The number of prestigious editorial and design awards that its publications win annually, upholds IDG’s global leadership in technology publishing. And, as part of this relationship, CPI staffers upload local stories to a global news service, ensuring the widest possible distribution of regional success stories.

CPI journalists have the edge over others, sometimes well in advance, with embargoed news from Silicon Valley or the Pacific Rim that will impact the local markets.

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CLIMATE CONTROL MIDDLE EAST

July 2010

• Healthcare deployment of the year • Telecommunication deployment of the year • Retail deployment of the year End-user Awards • CIO of the year • IT team of the year • Green enterprise of the year • Editor’s choice of the year Vendor Awards • Vendor of the year – Hardware • Vendor of the year – Software • Security solutions provider of the year • Managed services provider of the year • Storage solutions provider of the year • Systems integrator of the year • Consultant of the year Nomination process CNME’s ICT Achievement Awards 2010 welcomes nominations from individuals and companies in the Middle East. Nominations will need to reach the editorial staff at CNME by end of day of the August 26, 2010.

Please follow the below guidelines when sending in your nominations: All nominations must be in English.

Nomination forms should be completed in its entirety.

This includes contact information for the nominee as well as the individual/ company that is nominating.

Incomplete forms might be disqualified.

A company can send in as many nominations as they wish across the different categories.

All nominations will have to be made in Microsoft Word formats (.doc or .docx).

No other formats will be accepted.

Supporting documents for the main nomination document can be provided only in Adobe Reader formats (.pdf).

All nominations should

the region

give precedence to fact-based information and should not hold marketing messages or branding information.

Projects detailed in nominations should not be older than 18 months.

Projects older than that might not be considered.

Projects, individuals and organisations from across the Middle East can be nominated for the Awards. For the purposes of this Awards, the countries included are:

UAE, Qatar, Kuwait, Bahrain, Kingdom of Saudi Arabia, Syria, Yemen, Egypt, Jordan, Lebanon, Oman, Palestine and Pakistan.

All nominations will be sent to the judging panel. It might also be used in CNME or its sister magazines as part of a feature, an article by itself or as part of the Awards feature, following the Awards ceremony itself.

CNME and/or the judges might verify the information

provided in the nomination form by calling the nominee or the individual/company that has nominated.

In case of any disputes, the decision taken by CNME’s Senior Editor will be considered final.

CONTACT US For nomination enquiries, please contact: Sathya Mithra Ashok Senior Editor sathya@cpidubai.com

For sponsorship enquiries, please contact: Sandip Virk Group Sales Manager +971-50-459 2653 sandip@cpidubai.com Richard Judd Commercial Director +971-50-2752441 richard@cpidubai.com For more details, please visit http://www. cpilive.net/events/ ictachievementawards2010/

American Breeze moves to new location

A

merican Breeze Middle East, has announced that it has moved to Office 316, Pinnacle Tower, Sheikh Zayed Road, Dubai, UAE. Its new contact numbers are: Tel: 00971 4 3951377 Fax: 00971 4 3951376 American Breeze Middle East further informs that all its email addresses and contact persons remain the same.

Its postal address is: PO Box 27146, Dubai, UAE and the website is: www.americanbreeze.com.

Güntner Middle East moves to Dubai

G

üntner Middle East has announced that with effect from June 11, it has moved from Sharjah to their new office located at Office A 505, Dubai Silicon Oasis, Dubai.

The new contact details are as follows: Güntner AG & Co KG PO Box 34 11 79 Dubai, UAE www.guentner.de Phone: +971 4 371 28 21 Fax: +971 4 371 28 29 Svenja Konken Assistant to Managing Director Phone: +971 4 371 28 26 Fax: +971 4 371 28 29 Mobile: +971 50 69 67 494 E-mail: s.konken@guentner.de Adel Kamel Dipl Ing Managing Director Phone: +971 4 371 28 26 Fax: +971 4 371 28 29 E-mail: a.kamel@guentner.de

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July 2010

CLIMATE CONTROL MIDDLE EAST

15

happenings

at large

NEW AC technology to substitute salt solution with refrigerant Team of engineers invents low-cost solar energy/ natural gas-powered DEVap cooling system

T

he US Department of Energy’s (DOE’s) National Renewable Energy Laboratory (NREL) has announced that it has invented a new air conditioning process with the potential of using 50% to 90% less energy than today’s topof-the-line units.

The DEVap, which stands for desiccant-enhanced evaporative air conditioner, uses membrane technology to combine the efficiency of evaporative cooling and the drying potential of liquid desiccant salt solutions.

According to the announcement, the idea is to revolutionise cooling, while removing millions of metric tonnes of carbon from the air.

Engineers from NREL, who have been working with membranes, evaporative coolers, and desiccants, reportedly observed an opportunity to combine them into a single device for a product with unique capabilities.

The press release further elucidated the process: Evaporative coolers are a

low-cost alternative to air conditioners in places with dry climates (for example, Rustaq and Nizwa). But in humid climates (for example, Muscat, Salalah, Sohar and Sur), adding water to the air creates a hot and sticky building environment. Furthermore, the air cannot absorb enough water to become cold. Therefore, evaporative cooling or desert cooling is not useful. So, refrigerationbased air conditioning is the preferred way of keeping cool, but it consumes significant amount of energy. The DEVap solves this problem by relying on the desiccants’ capacity to create dry air using heat and evaporative coolers’ capacity to take dry air and make cold air.

According to HVAC News, the kind of desiccants that NREL uses are syrupy liquids – highly concentrated aqueous salt solutions of lithium chloride or calcium chloride.

They have a high affinity for water vapour, and can, thus, create very dry air. Owing to the complexity of desiccant cooling systems, they have

traditionally only been used in industrial drying processes.

To solve the problem of easy installation and maintenance, the NREL device uses thin membranes that simplify the process of integrating airflow, desiccants and evaporative cooling. These result in an air conditioning system that is said to provide superior comfort and humidity control.

The membranes in the DEVap air conditioner are hydrophobic, which means water tends to bead up rather than soak through the membranes. This property, reportedly, allows the membranes to control the liquid flows within the cooling core and keeps the water and the desiccant separated from the air stream. In this technology, water and liquid desiccant are brought into DEVap’s heat-mass exchanger core. The desiccant and evaporative cooling effect work together to create cold-dry air. The air is cooled and dried from a hot-humid condition, to a cold and dry condition, all in one step. It

is claimed that this happens in a fraction of a second, as air flows through the DEVap air conditioner. The result, evidently, is an air conditioner that controls both thermal and humidity loads.

Because the DEVap uses salt solutions rather than refrigerants, it eliminates greenhouse gas concerns.

Also, traditional air conditioners use a significant amount of electricity to run the refrigeration cycle, but DEVap is said to replace the refrigeration cycle with an absorption cycle that is thermally activated. It can be powered by natural gas or solar energy and uses very little electricity.

NREL has patented the DEVap concept and engineers from the organisation expect that over the next couple of years, they will be working on making the device smaller and simpler and perfecting the heat transfer to make DEVap more cost-effective. NREL will eventually license the technology to industry.

Systemair acquires Rucon Turnover expected to reach EUR20 million

S

ystemair, a ventilation company with operations in 38 countries in Europe, North America, Middle East, Asia, Africa and Australia, has agreed to acquire the Dutch ventilation company, Rucon, supplier of ventilation products to the Dutch market for the past 40 years.

In this context, Gerald Engström,

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CLIMATE CONTROL MIDDLE EAST

July 2010

CEO of Systemair said: “We are very pleased with this acquisition in Holland. Holland is a big ventilation market with several strong local suppliers. Rucon’s market position supplements very well with our existing business in Holland, and we expect to realise synergy advantages on short notice. Our turnover in

Holland, including our existing business, will reach close to EUR20 million after the acquisition, and hence be one of our biggest individual markets.”

According to Systemair, the current owner of Rucon, Henk van der Zande will remain in his position as Managing Director of the company.

at large

Planungsbüro wins First Daikin Planner Award for Primary Energy Efficiency Comes up with winning project for air conditioning solution

A

ccording to an announcement in the Chillventa Newsletter, the first Daikin Planner Awards for Primary Energy Efficiency were presented by Daikin Air Conditioning, Germany, at the 6th Daikin German Planners Day, held from 22 to 23 April in Düsseldorf and at the Zollverein coal mine complex in Essen, in the presence of some 130 guests. The winner was Planungsbüro igb, of Weimar. The winning project was the air conditioning solution planned for an offset printing works in Cologne, using the Daikin VRV3 EnergyRec System with heat recovery.

The following were the criteria for the award: • Substantial saving of primary energy and CO2 emissions • The planning challenge created by the project • The planning expertise of the company • The use of Daikin equipment The announcement stated that in the jury’s opinion, the project entered by igb ideally fulfilled the requirements.

The announcement elucidated that the complete conversion of the printing works built in 1968 focused

on heat displacement within the building. The heat flows generated in the printing works are now reportedly being used by the VRV3 Energy-Rec System, so that they are available for heating the office areas with high energy efficiency.

The report claims that since installation, the printing works has saved 45% of CO2 emissions in the parts of the building supplied by the new plant, and adds that the use of the Daikin VRV technology completely eliminates the need for fossil energy sources to heat the building.

Other awards, says the

announcement, went to ZWP Ingenieur of Cologne, for its integrated heating cooling concept of the International School in Frankfurt, and imi Ingenieurbüro of Neumarkt, for the monovalent use of the Daikin VRV system in the Grasenhiller Service Centre. This project, states the announcement, provides performance figures that are 33% better than the requirements of the German Energy Conservation Act (EnEV).

The second Planner Award slated to be presented at the 7th Daikin Planners Day in May 2011, says the announcement.

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CIVIL DEFENCE APPROVED

marketplace

This section contains regional and international products information

Electro-Chemical Devices

Model S10 and S17 Universal Toroidal Conductivity Sensors

C

alifornia-based Electro-Chemical Devices (ECD), manufacturer of liquid analytical process instrumentation, has introduced models S10 and S17 Universal Toroidal Conductivity Sensors, which the company claims, enable highly accurate conductivity measurement. The inductive sensors feature a standard

measurement range from 50 to 1,000mS. Model S10 is an immersion or insertionstyle device and Model S17 is a valve retractable-style device.

According to ECD, the sensors are built with the toroids, in line with the axis of the sensor, instead of perpendicular to the axis, as is commonly employed.

This allows for the smaller diameter and shorter inductive path length, that is beneficial for the compact design.

With a compact 0.75-inch (19.05 mm) diameter sensor body design, the conductivity sensors, claims ECD, are ideal for use in tight places with crowded piping and equipment locations, such as, cramped industrial process and manufacturing operations.

They operate effectively in pipes as small as 1.5 inches (38.1mm) in diameter, which is up to five times smaller than typical

conductivity measurement devices.

Fitting into an existing pipe, without the need for re-plumbing the flow cell, is an added advantage.

Product features and applications: • The sensors feature Kynar PVDF plastic body that is sealed, making them suitable for harsh industrial applications, including resin bed regeneration, acid and alkaline scrubbers, metal-plating baths and wastewater treatment.

• They can withstand harsh liquids such as acids and coolants, where corrosion and scaling pose problems.

• The models are compatible with ECD’s transmitters and controllers. The T23 and T28 loop-powered transmitters can be used either with NEMA 4X, T23, or explosion-proof T28, area classifications.

The C22 controller has dual-sensor inputs that allow any combination of measurements and outputs to be combined in one controller.

Johnson Controls

Enviro-Tec Fan-Coil Unit

S

tating that it improves indoor environmental quality (IEQ), while delivering energy-efficient performance, Johnson Controls has announced the launch of its new Enviro-Tecbrand, floor-mounted fancoil unit.

According to Johnson Controls, available in concealed, exposed or sloped-top configurations, the unit includes factorymounted DDC control or unit-mounted digital thermostats. Controllers and actuators are wired via plugged wiring harnesses with colour-coded plugs and wires. In addition, factorymounted piping packages arrive on the job site with actuators wired to the

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CLIMATE CONTROL MIDDLE EAST

controller.

The new fan-coil unit improves IEQ by offering the following, claims Johnson Controls: • High-efficiency MERV 8 or MERV 13 filters • Reduced sound levels • Stainless steel coil casings • A sloped, stainless-steel drain pan that avoids standing water • Standard closed-cell foam insulation that exceeds the insulating value of fiberglass and does not wick condensate • Dehumidification control via reheat options and thermostat control schemes Other product features include: • Optimised coil circuits and

July 2010

fan and motor combinations that contribute to 30 to 50% less energy than comparably sized competitive units • Choice of a programmable thermostat that uses a clock for unit setback or a passive infrared (PIR) sensor that senses occupancy to determine setback to help manage energy consumption • Wireless networking capabilities that enable communication with a building automation system • Airflows ranging from

nominal 200 to 1,200 CFM with performance certified as complying with AHRI Standard 440; sound data tested in accordance with AHRI Standard 350 • Cabinet heights and widths that can be varied in one-inch increments up to 12 inches to accommodate existing architectural features

Cliplight Mfg

Flash Leak Detection Kits

H

VACR aftermarket products manufacturer Cliplight Mfg, has introduced three Flash professional refrigeration system leak detection kits, that include three “no mess” cans of Flash, a reusable charging hose, an ultraviolet (UV) detector light and a carrying case.

Cliplight claims that the vacuum-packed, one-time use cans can each treat up to one five-tonne unit or 64-ounces (1.8-litre) of system oil. Also, unlike other dyes on the market, states the manufacturer, Flash does not use an injector or polyolester (POE) oil as a carrier. Instead, it uses Cliplight’s own Dry R drying agent, combined with the charging hose’s 29/1,000ths orifice to instantaneously mist the dye into the system,

keep it stable and prevent crystallisation.

According to Cliplight, the kits vary by UV fluorescing light function and illuminating range as follows: • Dual Pro 82 Kit uses the Cool Dual UV/White LED Light that functions both as a close range UV dye detector and a conventional flashlight in an aluminum casing, with an anti-drop wrist strap. The light includes 21 UV LEDs, 20 white LEDs and 4-AAA batteries.

• Mini Pro 84 uses Cliplight’s Vector 4 UV LED Light with patented focal lens technology for inspections up to 15 feet.

The Vector 4 has a fourhour continuous use life and a 9V battery internal energy management system, ensuring full UV output

throughout the battery life, with an intermittent on/off switch and orange 10-minute low battery warning light. It also includes an anti-drop wrist strap and 9V battery.

• Maxi Pro 87 uses Cliplight’s Vector 7 UV LED Light that focuses seven LED beams into one light source extending up to 20 feet. The cordless Vector 7 is rechargeable with a five-hour continuous use life and NiMH, 1,800-Ah battery that has no charging memory precautions. The light includes both an AC/ DC charger and low battery indicator.

Other leak-detection features of the kits include: • Universal dye compatible with all refrigerants and oils • No contaminating moisture introduced to the system, as

Dry R is used as a dye carrier and stabiliser instead of POE oil • No clean-up, hand contact, storage or injectors needed – system refrigerant fills the can, mixes with Flash and instantaneously distributes it throughout the system • Reusable charging hose is cleaned automatically for the next application from solvency of system refrigerant exiting the Flash can • Charging hose’s 29/1,000ths-inch throttling orifice guarantees no dye liquid will reach the suction line of the compressor • No UV enhancement eyewear needed, as all kits use professional UV leakdetection lights • All kits include service stickers for quick ID on future servicing • Customer service support

Airtec Products Corp

Novent

D

rawing attention to the lifethreatening trend of intentional inhalation or “huffing,” by children and young adults from access ports on residential and light commercial air conditioning and refrigeration equipment, Airtec Products Corp, manufacturer and importer of HVACR products, has announced the launch of Novent, tamper-resistant locking caps. They

claim that the caps aid in the prevention of refrigerant theft and leaks into the environment.

According to Airtec, the corrosionresistant, aluminum-shrouded brass locking caps screw on to standard Schraeder valves. They also comply with the International Mechanical Code (Section 1101-10) and International Residential Code (Section M1411-6) that now mandate tamper-resistant outdoor access ports for all new AC/R installations.

Airtec claims that the patented locking caps, which can only be installed and removed with a special screwdriver or MultiKey key-ring wrench, are available only through wholesale HVAC/R distributors. The locking caps and screwdrivers are colour coded – green for R-22 and pink for R-410A – to assist in preventing accidental refrigerant

mixing, and a universal silver is available for use with any refrigerant.

Product features • Oil and sealant-resistant neoprene O-ring seals tightly to eliminate refrigerant leaks to the environment.

• Integral torque limiter prevents overtightening.

• Precision-machined, high-grade aluminum-shrouded brass fitting resists crushing and removal without a Novent key.

Airtec Products, which is the global distributor for Novent states that the products are sold in two packs, 10 packs and 50 packs of pink, green or silver 1/4-inch-thread, and a pink cap with 5/16-inch thread for imported R-410A equipment, which complies with EEC requirements.

July 2010

CLIMATE CONTROL MIDDLE EAST

19

marketplace Güntner Middle East

V-shape coil drycooler GFD and V-shape coil condenser GVD

T

outing them as high capacity, but small footprint products, compared to their power density, Güntner Middle East, of the Güntner Group, has introduced its new GFD and GVD units – the V-shape coil drycooler GFD and V-shape

coil condenser GVD. With this, claims Güntner, it has enlarged the power spectrum of its V-shape coil drycooler and condenser series (GFD and GVD). The V-shape coil drycooler GFD can be designed with a capacity of up to 2MW per

unit. The GVD and GFD units come in eight basic models. They offer high flexibility of fin and tube geometries and a large variety of heat exchanger coils, the company adds. It enumerates the following application benefits: • An optimally suited unit can be designed for each application.

• Due to the Güntner floating coil system, the coil can expand without straining the refrigerant-carrying tubes and the unit is protected against refrigerant losses due to leakages.

• The units are equipped with air-side separation sheets for an optimal fan control. Additionally, the

Antiphon AB

units are suited for all types of fan control – they can be equipped with AC fans (alternating current) or EC fans (electronically commutated).

•The condenser GVD can be designed to an operating pressure of 41 bar on request.

Thus, the unit can also be operated with refrigerants replacing R22, for example, R410A. • Optional features and accessories are available for both series.

• The units are delivered ready for operation, thus obviating installation of individual components on site. Only two crane lugs are required per unit for transportation and mounting.

The crane lugs can be moved, so that transportation by crane is possible without cross beams. Despite their size, the units are suited for transportation by truck.

MPM foiled – sound-damping sandwich steel

U

sing a sheet metal laminate with a thin foil on one side, Antiphon AB has introduced MPM (metal-polymermetal) foiled – a new product for structureborne sound damping. The core material consists of two zinc-coated sheet steel, laminated with an acoustic inner layer. This, says the manufacturer, can obtain superior structure-borne sound damping, and can be used to reduce vibrations without increasing the weight of the construction.

It can replace already existing materials.

Aluminium is also an option as core material.

Product features: • MPM foiled is available in a wide variety of foil surfaces, colours and patterns.

• It is delivered in format sizes of maximum dimension 1,250x3000mm.

• The thinnest sheet is 1.04mm, where the system consists of two sheet steel of thickness 0.5mm, laminated with a 0.04mm acoustic inner layer.

• For aluminium, the minimum thickness is 1.44mm. The maximum thickness is 6.1mm.

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CLIMATE CONTROL MIDDLE EAST

July 2010

• It is delivered with a peelable protective film.

• It can be worked with methods normally used within the industry, to cut, press and punch.

• Mechanical joints, bonded joints or combinations are of jointing methods used.

• It can be recycled as standard sheet steel.

• When bending is required, special instructions might be needed.

• Welding and laser cutting is not advisable.

Applications: The durable surface complies with the demands concerning flammability, making it adaptable to marine applications and interior design, such as cabin and corridor panels.

Interior surfaces for the automotive sector, appliance housings, doors and shop lay-outs are other possible application fields.

It allows the use of laminated sandwich systems in more visible environments as a decoration material, where sound damping is needed, thus fulfilling the dual demands of aesthetics and functionality.

Güntner

Microox heat exchangers

G

üntner’s latest innovation in the world of heat exchange is its new line of condensers. The Microox GVX Condenser Line is a breakthrough in the history of condensers. The Güntner Microox heat exchanger is the perfection of the micro channel technology and consists completely of aluminium. This was achieved by adjusting the wall thickness of the heat exchanger modules for higher refrigerant pressures.

All Microox heat exchangers are produced in modern production lines at Güntner.

Key facts about the Microox Low refrigerant charge: • Up to 50% less refrigerant charge compared to capacity • The regulation EC 842/2006 (F-Gas regulation) prescribes leak tests, depending on the refrigerant charge of the installation • Less leak tests are necessary at a lower refrigerant charge, with

reduced CO2 equivalent • Corrosion resistant: the heat exchanger consists completely of aluminium, with no galvanic corrosion, powder coated • The GVX Microox technology consists completely of aluminium and is lightweight and easy to transport and mount compared to conventional heat exchangers Wall mounting: • The GVX weighs up to 30% less and is well suited for wall mounting, and saves costs • Mounting to walls with low wall-bearing capacity is possible • No additional wall mounting brackets required • Wall mounting beam with or without vibration dampers Floor mounting: • All units are also suitable for floor mounting and can be installed directly on the floor or on U or T beam • Enough room for sufficient air supply

Kathabar

KDS Solar Liquid Desiccant Dehumidification System

N

ew York-based Kathabar Dehumidification Systems has launched KDS Solar liquid desiccant systems, which utilise solar hot water for economical dehumidification of outdoor ventilation air that is typically 30-50% more energy efficient than dry desiccant systems.

According to the company, making use of solar heat can lead to increased energy efficiency and significant utility savings for applications requiring high amounts of outside air. By incorporating KDS Solar, buildings can achieve large-scale energy savings in air conditioning.

In addition to using solar hot water as a heat source, KDS Solar can use low-cost cooling tower water as a coolant source. Kathabar enthalpy recovery devices are available for additional energy savings.

Kathabar Solar is valid for

Danfoss

MLZ Refrigeration Compressors

S

aying that it offers an efficient solution for demanding refrigeration applications, with its unique scroll design and manufacturing process flexibility, Danfoss has released its new range of MLZ Refrigeration Compressors.

The series includes 11 models of medium temperature scroll compressors designed for commercial refrigeration applications.

According to Danfoss, the compressors are purpose-engineered for refrigeration, and offer customers the possibility to specify cooling capacities from 3,800 to 30,000 watts and to select from global voltages and frequencies as well as any of the common refrigerants (404A/134a/507/22). The MBP scroll

compressor range will complement the company’s existing line of MT/LT hermetic reciprocating compressors, condensing units and package units, and will be available in compressor, condensing unit, and package unit designs.

The manufacturer claims that the compressors reduce overall costs in the following manner: • The hybrid-wrap scroll design will reduce energy cost in normal operating conditions and deliver high capacity and an optimised pressure ratio for refrigeration applications.

• In varying cooling cycles (such as ice machines or during pull down), the Danfoss patented Adaptive Control system

a wide range of applications at industrial, commercial, institutional, and green/LEED facilities with as low as 20% relative humidity.

According to the company, Kathabar dehumidification systems deliver precise and reliable temperature and humidity control to a wide range of industrial, commercial, and institutional applications regardless of air inlet conditions. Kathabar dehumidifiers also provide critical bacterial control by capturing most airborne bacteria, viruses, and mould.

All Kathabar equipment is made of Fibre Reinforced Plastic (FRP) with industrial grade construction to provide less maintenance and long equipment life. Kathabar liquid desiccant systems, most efficient when cool or cold dry air is desired, can handle airflows from 750 to 84,000 CFM, the company said.

ensures that the scrolls will have continuous optimum axial pressure, thus reducing leakage, while minimising friction.

• A patented overload protection system will reduce the system’s down time.

• Its multi-refrigerant smaller and lighter design and local/global availability will help reduce installation costs.

• Reduced noise due to a check valve design translates into less cost for lownoise applications.

Product applications: • Cold rooms • Milk cooling tanks • Compressed air dryers • Ice machines • Soft serve ice cream machines • Shake, slush, and frozen beverage makers • Process chillers July 2010

CLIMATE CONTROL MIDDLE EAST

21

advertorial

A Zen for solutions Zenersol strongly believes that an efficient district cooling scheme is only as good as the quality of the metering and billing regimen in place.

T

hree months ago, Keith Levers received a call from a tenant of a building connected to district cooling. The caller sounded incredulous.

He had been away on vacation, and his air conditioning system had been off during the time; and yet, he had received a bill for cooling as consumption charge.

Curious, Levers, the General Manager of Dubai-based district cooling advisory company, Zenersol, visited the apartment, only to discover that though the air conditioning had, indeed, been switched off in the building, the valve that controlled the flow to the FCU had been left open. “The building maintenance people shut the power first before closing the valve, and so the 22

CLIMATE CONTROL MIDDLE EAST

July 2010

unit had continuous flow even when the person was away,” recalls Levers.

The incident is just one among other problems related to meters that Levers has encountered since the time he formed Zenersol, in the Spring of 2010. Indeed, says Levers, there are a plethora of problems involving district cooling meters. In many cases, he says, district cooling is facing a perception challenge, owing to the lack of submeters. He points out to a residential neighbourhood in what is called New Dubai, where the apartment units do not have sub meters.

By way of substantiating, his colleague and Managing Director, Suhaib Ahmed, says that 80% of buildings in New Dubai

are without sub meters. The problem, he adds, goes deeper. “Many buildings are not designed for metering services, and that is causing problems,” Ahmed says. “There are many new buildings that are going to be on district cooling, but meters are not being considered, in terms of access.” Access, he says, is crucial, because there is a need to recalibrate meters once every seven to 10 years, and also to replace batteries.

“Many buildings don’t even have a maintenance programme for meters,” Ahmed says. “At the moment, the focus is only on reading and billing.

“There is a great demand for a proper sub-metering regimen. The guy at the end, who is paying the bill, has to

be thought of. Meters may be small devices, but they do so much in terms of perception.”

The issue of meters apart, today, the growing feeling among end-users is that district cooling has several gaps to plug.

They believe that the capacity charges are still very expensive and that there is a need for regulation in terms of tariff. Ahmed says that many end- users prefer an independent entity to conduct a metering & and billing service, as it will not have any vested interest on the amount of revenue generated. They simply don’t trust the numbers, he adds.

If the situation is left unchecked, Levers and Ahmed feel, the very health of the district cooling industry could be affected. The real estate market for district cooling will collapse if the industry is not careful, Levers says.

The problem, Levers says, is not limited to Dubai. “We see the same happening in Abu Dhabi and Qatar,” he adds.

Levers, a veteran of the district cooling industry, joined forces with Ahmed at Zenersol, because he was able to identify and catalogue the range and the depth of industry-related problems and because he felt he could offer viable solutions to alleviate or eliminate several of them.

Zenersol’s areas of activities include advisory management; facilities management; and metering, billing and collections. In the rather short time it has been around, the company has been approached by ownership associations and developers who want meters to be retrofitted in individual apartment units, which would enable them to be a part of a metering and billing regimen. Zenersol’s involvement includes linking proper expertise for the purpose, be it getting specialised MEP contractors to look at energy transfer stations, and suppliers of meters to properly install the equipment. “Ideally, the manufacturer should himself certify the installation,” Ahmed says.

“The functionality of the components of a meter need to comply with the specifications and design of the meter manufacturer. Each and every meter should be signed off in a commissioning report.” Adds Levers: “In an advisory capacity, we are calling for a set of standard guidelines for the installation of meters. The end products are reliability and consumer confidence on accurate meter readings.”

In addition to advising from a broad perspective, Ahmed and Levers look at issues on a case-by-case basis and step in when solutions need to be implemented,

Suhaib Ahmed and Keith Levers

be it analysing the consumption pattern of a building, ensuring that the thermostat setting in a building is properly controlled or conducting energy audits.

While Zenersol advises and aids end-users, it offers the same attention to district cooling providers and developers. Says Levers: “We look at how the district cooling industry is performing at different sectors of the business. We have noticed that some of them are experiencing a number of issues. In one instance, we noticed that a district cooling provider was billing his customers three to four months late. The provider has to pay DEWA for power, and so cash flow is critical; thus, billing customers so late is not an option.”

So critical has been its advisory role that another district cooling provider approached Zenersol to help in the restructuring of the company. In yet another instance, a developer wanted to know how he should go about putting a district cooling scheme in place.

“That’s our spectrum, really,” Levers says. “We look at offering end-to-end services, from the commencement of district cooling to billing, and operation &and maintenance. The ultimate aim of Zenersol Solutions is to provide innovative solutions that create a winwin situation for all stakeholders in the industry.

In an advisory capacity, we are calling for a set of standard guidelines for the installation of meters. The end products are reliability and consumer confidence on accurate meter readings.

Suhaib Ahmed can be reached at suhaib.ahmed@zenersol.com. Keith Levers can be reached at keith.levers@ zenersol.com

July 2010

CLIMATE CONTROL MIDDLE EAST

23

factory focus

Sound attenuators on the shop floor Climate Control Middle East visits the Aldes Middle East factory, which opened in the thick of the downturn and is determined to see the tough times through. Photographs: B Surendar

I

t is early July, and the weather is unrelenting. Protected from the sun, though, a group of workers are beavering away near a batch of circular sound attenuators, in the Aldes Middle East factory, in Sharjah International Airport Free Zone.

The attenuators, destined for Qatar, are large – 1.8 metres in diameter, imposing and command attention. But in relation to the 8,000-square-metre expanse of the factory, they look small.

The factory, which opened early this year, consists of three sections: a cutting section, a steel assembly section and an aluminium assembly section. It is here that Aldes makes 85% of its products for the GCC market. The range includes fire dampers (motor and smoke), VAVs, VCDs, sound attenuators, grilles, diffusers and louvres.

24

CLIMATE CONTROL MIDDLE EAST

July 2010

In addition to standard specifications, the factory produces non-standard, customised items. The circular sound attenuators bound for Qatar, in two batches of 40 each, are examples of customisation. “It is common for us to produce customised items,” says Gaetan Pierrefeu, the Managing Director of Aldes Middle East. Sometime ago, we delivered similar large sound attenuators to a big project in Fujairah. Customising seems to be important for customers here.”

Owing to the demand for customisation, Pierrefeu says, it is impossible to ascertain how many products the factory can produce every day. In the case of the batch for Qatar, owing to the size, the shop floor personnel can produce four a day. If square in shape, they will be able Continued after Retrofit News and Chronicle Gaetan Pierrefeu

It is estimated that, over their 30-year life, the chillers will result in a saving of around Dh10 million, which comfortably exceeds the cost of the entire replacement project. p5

Retrofit Champion Meet Leandro Bantug, who is pushing for a water-less urinal retrofit initiative in the region.

JULY 2010 â&#x20AC;˘ www.cpi-industry.com

Mall Make-over

page 6

The owner of Al Ghurair City, in 2009, decided that the nearly 30-year-old facility needed a make-over, including a replacement of the air conditioning system. Trane got the call.

rey delante

Feature

retrofit news and chronicle is a joint initiative of:

The ideal lighting for an office is 8-12W/ square metre, says Michael Nuyttens, adding that Dubai has a huge market for the lighting retrofit. page 7

Retrofit News and Chronicle

Case-in-point

Phil Barnett

One of the new chillers

Mall make-over

The owner of Al Ghurair City, in 2009, decided that the nearly 30-year-old facility needed a make-over, including a replacement of the air conditioning system. Trane got the call.

L

aunched in 1981, Al Ghurair City was built by the Al Ghurair family on an empty plot of land. It was the first modern shopping mall project of its kind in the Middle East.

In addition to the mall, Al Ghurair City includes office space and two-, three- and five-bedroom, fully serviced apartments. It is located in

Rigga Road in the heart of Deira and is just a short taxi ride from historical attractions, such as the Dubai Museum and the famous Gold Souk.

With 189 retail shops, 19,085m2 of office space and 343 apartments, it has a significant presence in the area. The facilities are well provisioned with an in-house leisure and recreation club that

includes tennis and squash courts, â&#x20AC;&#x2DC;weather-controlledâ&#x20AC;&#x2122; swimming pools, basketball and soccer courts and a stateof-the-art gymnasium.

The office space alone is served by three elevators, 24 hours of security, maintenance service and covered parking.

Impressive though this is, how does an owner-operator maintain standards of service

and comfort in what is, after all, nearly a 30-year facility?

And what of the changing needs of present-day customers and clients, considering the current competitive nature of the retail and commercial market in Dubai, which brings raised expectations of customers and clients?

Considering the two, Al Ghurair City, in mid-2009,

Pages 2 - 3

july2010 issue

decided to add a major new extension, which in the words of the owner, would be modern in every respect.

At the same time, giving due consideration to the age of the building, it decided to pay equal attention and care to the established part of the facility.

One important aspect was the air conditioning system, which after almost 30 years of excellent service, was clearly in need of replacement. And for this, Al Ghurair City zeroed-in on Trane.

It was decided that the final scope of works would include the re-engineering of the chilled water system, replacement of the watercooled chillers and the installation of an appropriate chilled water control system.

Carrying out all these activities, the management concluded, would deliver significant energy savings, resolve issues of an ageing plant and greatly improve operational management of the system.

The original and still-

An old chiller in the plant room

The pumps in the plant room; they did not need to be replaced

operational chiller plant comprised four Trane watercooled centrifugal chillers, with a total capacity of 3,000 TR. In addition to the chiller plant, it was clear that ancillary equipment, such as pumps,

starters, pipe work, electrics and controls would need to be carefully assessed and, depending on their impact on the system, either upgraded or replaced.

Of utmost importance

to the owner was that any work should not interrupt the business or inconvenience the many clients in the building.

The obvious step to mitigate this very real risk was to undertake the majority of work in the winter, but as the load during the cooler months was difficult to predict, no one could say with any degree of certainty what cooling needed to be provided during the change-out. To manage this to the satisfaction of all parties, Trane proposed to first service the existing chillers and have a 1,200 TR temporary cooling system on standby, in the event of a complete shut-down or unexpected circumstances.

Another important aspect was the original R11 lowpressure refrigerant, now a controlled chemical. For many years, this was the preferred refrigerant for lowpressure centrifugals, as its thermodynamic qualities are outstanding. However, with the advent of the Montreal Protocol, which was developed to reverse the damage

Retrofit News and Chronicle

Case-in-point that was being inflicted on the ozone layer, it is now a substance that cannot simply be disposed of without due care and attention. Trane secured the full support of the Al Ghurair team when it proposed that the replacement project must include the safe removal and disposal of the refrigerant.

Over 30 years, a lot can happen in and around a plant room, and the facility at Al Ghurair City was no exception.

Many modifications had been made to the original design and, of course, many other systems had been added in and around the existing installation, making understanding of and, indeed, access to the system a challenging undertaking. This meant that whilst drawings were available, they could not be relied upon to plan the carefully phased nature of isolation, shutdowns and change-outs.

The first major shutdown was undertaken on December 10, 2009, a date that Ra’id Al Jabi, Service Manager for Trane remembers well, as it was the moment when months of planning and preparation were put to the test. However, once the main isolating valves were

installed in the evaporator and condenser lines (and observed to hold the enormous pressures in the system) the real work could begin.

To give some idea of just how complex the system had become, Trane’s project team, led by Mark Jolly, along with the very capable Al Ghurair City technical staff, had to locate and isolate around 300 valves before any modifications or replacement could be undertaken. This was an enormous task and required an intensive coordinated effort.

In fact, one of the deciding factors in selecting Trane for the job was that the company demonstrated a clear understanding of the magnitude and complexity of this particular aspect. Had the team got this wrong, the whole project would have been jeopardised.

Other key preparation work included the isolation, removal and replacement of the main headers and the demolition of a 4x7m wall to provide the required access for any future work. On completion, a new wall was built – though this time with a suitable

The display panel of a new chiller in the plant room

To get the old chillers out and the new centrifugals into the congested plant room forced the team to devise a plan of Rubik’s Cube complexity and precision; after all, the chiller change-out had to be undertaken without taking the cooling plant off-line.

access door to facilitate future service and maintenance work – and rendered to match the surrounding finishes.

Elsewhere, in the crowded two-floor plant room, which was buried in the heart of the building, the pumps were thoroughly inspected and deemed suitable to handle the installed capacity of the proposed new chiller configuration.

To ensure that the electrical side of the equation was brought up to date, all old panels and starters were removed and replaced with Ben Shaw starters and nine TAMCO, 3.3 kV, 400amp vacuum circuit-breakers.

To get the old chillers out and the new centrifugals into the congested plant room forced the team to devise a plan of Rubik’s Cube complexity and precision; after all, the chiller change-out had to be undertaken without taking the cooling plant off-line. To further complicate matters, the main plant room was located not just deep within the building, but up on the third floor. Trane engaged the services of Transport Technics and Services (TTS) International who specialise in the handling, transportation and installation of heavy and oversized cargo by land and sea. Trane had previously worked with TTS on the equally challenging chiller installation of the Burj Khalifa, a few years earlier.

But of course, before the chillers could be dismantled and removed, the refrigerant had to be captured and disposed of, in accordance with recognised industry standards. To assist with this important aspect of the job, Trane partnered with EnviroServe, who are a registered company, established under a Professional License for Pollution and Environment Protection Services.

The Trane services team worked closely with EnviroServe to recover over 1,800 kilogrammes of CFC-11; equivalent to about seven drums.

Stuart Fleming, Managing Director of EnviroServe, said:

Pages 4 - 5

July2010 issue

“All procedures were followed to complete the safe disposal of the old refrigerant. There was no release of the potentially harmful chlorofluorocarbon to the atmosphere nor did any venting occur while undertaking the assignment. The CFC-11 will eventually be transported to Linde AG, Industrial Gas Division in Germany, for destruction, once the license and authorisation are obtained and sufficient volume is achieved for shipment. The refrigerant will be transported under the Basel Convention as ‘hazardous products’.”

Nigel Hawley, Territory Leader, Trane (Middle East, India & Africa), added: “Our commitment to safe environmental practice remains, regardless of our contractual scope and obligations. We are dedicated to safe and ethical business practices for a better and greener tomorrow. EnviroServe is the only dedicated refrigerant reclamation company in the Middle East, and we were happy to partner with them to reclaim, recover and dispose of potentially harmful refrigerants in a safe and environmentally responsible manner.”

The remains of the old chillers and associated scrap were also safely disposed of using another qualified vendor. Though Trane’s scope of work was limited to loading the old chillers onto trailers, they ensured that the nominated sub-contractor took due care to dispose of the material in an environmentally responsible manner.

In addition to the electromechanical work, Trane installed its Refrigerant Recovery system and storage tank in the plant room to avoid potential venting issues, even though the newly installed chillers used the environmentally recognised R123 low pressure refrigerant.

A LoVac recovery pump is also on standby. This recovery system is very popular due to its fast recovery rate, its light weight and ease of operation. In addition, a refrigerant monitor was also installed, in accordance

The new wall with the access door

with ASHRAE 15 guidelines.

To ensure that all components worked as an optimised system, Trane upgraded the existing Tracer Summit chiller plant manager with custom graphics.

This now allows users easy access to various parameters of the equipment, such as chilled water and condenser water pumps.

In the discussions leading up to the award of the project, the Al Ghurair team had expressed a strong interest in ensuring that they would get a chiller plant that would be reliable, durable and efficient. The new chiller configuration comprised two CVHG-670 and two CVHG-1100 EarthWise simplex water-cooled centrifugal chillers. Net cooling capacities are 515 TR and 950 TR respectively at 7.2/12.8ºC chilled water temperature range and 35.0/41.0ºC condenser water temperature range.

Replacing a whole chiller plant is a major investment, and the client was obviously very interested to have an idea on how quickly his investment might pay back. Using Trane’s Trace 700 energy-modelling software, which took into account many parameters,

The old chillers, which were serviced just prior to the job, produced the required capacity during the change-out, and the isolation valves held as planned. As a result, there were no ‘unexpected eventualities’.

including the efficiency of Trane’s new EarthWise centrifugal chillers and the current rate for electricity, it is estimated that, over their 30-year life, the chillers will result in a saving of around Dh10 million, which comfortably exceeds the cost of the entire replacement project.

In addition, the owner may look forward to an increase in capacity and significantly reduced service and maintenance charges, not to mention improved reliability.

As mentioned earlier, Trane did put in place a temporary cooling plant for any unexpected eventualities? However, the old chillers, which were serviced just prior to the job, produced the required capacity during the change-out, and the isolation valves held as planned. As a result, there were no ‘unexpected eventualities’.

So, thanks to proper planning and execution, the temporary cooling plant was dismantled and shipped back to the yard without seeing a minute of operation.

Ramzi Jaber, Trane’s project engineer, confirmed that the commissioning of the system was completed on April 1, 2010, which was slightly ahead of schedule, on budget and with no interruption to the client’s operations.

Retrofit News and Chronicle

Retrofit Champion Every month, we profile a key personality that is driving retrofitting initiatives in the region

The case for water less Despite the misconceptions, the overall response to water-less urinals in the Middle East has been positive, says Leandro Bantug to Anoop Menon of H20 magazine

I

f Leandro Bantug, Managing Director, Design International Selections had his way, water-less urinals would be the norm rather than the exception in the Middle East. “Water resources are scarce in the Middle East, while rapid economic and population growth is driving up water demand,” he says.

“In such a scenario, water-less urinal technology can play an important role in saving precious water.”

Bantug’s company represents Falcon WaterFree Technologies, one of the leading designers and suppliers of water-less urinals in the world, in the Middle East & North Africa (MENA) region. A conventional water-flush urinal, Bantug says, uses between one and 1.5 gallons of water per flush.

But its water-less counterpart can save an average of 40,000 gallons or 151,000 litres of water each year.

Typically, water-free urinals (including Falcon) rely on a system of replaceable cartridges containing liquid sealants instead of water to flush. The cartridge acts as a drain trap while the liquid sealant seals the urine and odour within the cartridge.

The main benefit of waterless urinals is the absence of water use, which means there are no flush water lines, flush valves or P-trap assemblies associated with water-flush urinals.

As a result, installation and maintenance costs are also low. Since there is no water, there is no odour, either.

“Odour is primarily generated when urine reacts with water and air to create ammonia oxide,” Bantug says. Further,

the dry nature of the waterless urinals prevents bacterial build- up, whereas water-flush urinals are more likely to be colonised by bacteria due to the presence of moisture.

Also, water-flush urinals can contaminate a rest-room through aerosols expelled during flushing.

Bantug has calculated that in Dubai, installing a waterfree urinal can save up to 30% on the cost of DEWA water, using an average price of 4.5 fils/gallon and 7,000 uses as the approximate life-cycle of the cartridge. “If we take 7,000 uses in the water-less urinal as equivalent to 7,000 flushes/ gallons consumed in waterflush urinal, our cartridge cost works out to be cheaper than the cost of 7,000 gallons of water,” he says.

In 2008, when Bantug first started to market waterless urinals in the UAE, he found the going tough.

“Customers wrongly regarded the technology as dirty and less hygienic, because there was no water flow and feared that it would cause stronger odours,” he says. “Many were uncomfortable with the changing of cartridges, and doubted its efficacy in highuse environments.”

To bolster his arguments, Bantug would present clients with problems gleaned first hand from visits to their restrooms. “A common problem was water leaks caused by stuck flush valves, which resulted in constant flow of water,” he remembers. “Of course, the cleaners never reported them, and the decision-makers never got to see the problem.”

Cultural issues were

another challenge. Bantug says: “One of the arguments I encountered was that urinals, as such, were incompatible with local culture. However, even a cursory survey will show you that urinals are found everywhere in Dubai, from commercial centres to hotels and shopping malls to government offices.”

To document the benefits of water-less urinals in local conditions, Bantug offered free on-site trials to customers.

One of first trial projects he bagged in 2008 was the retrofit of a busy restroom inside the Dubai International Airport.

The payback analysis, in this case, showed 50% savings in the annual total operating costs by retrofitting four conventional urinals with waterless ones and a payback time of 10.93 months. Another trial project, which started around the same time, culminated recently into a successful retrofit project. “We have bagged a project from Global Village to retrofit nearly 100 water-free urinals,” he says. “The project has to be completed in time for the winter carnival. They had a problem with water supply in the area; so instead of increasing the supply, they decided to reduce the demand.”

Annual savings from installation of water-free urinals depend on factors like the flush volume of replaced urinals, the number of urinal uses per day as well as water and sewer rates. “Savings from water-free urinals will be higher and payback quicker in malls and offices where the traffic is high, than in homes and villas, because more

people means more water use,” Bantug says.

In a new installation, up-front savings can be realised through the elimination of water lines for flushing, flush valves, sensors and water costs. In a retrofit, operating costs that are eliminated include water charges, flush valve repair costs, pipe de-clogging costs, recurring expenses on cleaning material and electricity costs associated with pumping. However, retrofits also require some special considerations. It is very important to clean out the drain lines before fitting water-less urinals on to them.

Prior uric sediment build up in the pipes can cause them to narrow and, thus, restrict flow. “Urine flow in waterless urinals relies on gravity; whereas in flushing, the urine flow is forced through the pipe,” Bantung says. “Cleaning of drain-lines is a must for any retrofit installation.”

But, unlike in the US, where incorrect sloping of drain pipes and incompatible drain heights have been major issues with retrofits, in Dubai, the main problem has been incorrect cleaning and maintenance practices.

“The cleaning personnel are habituated to doing things in a certain way,” he says. “But we offer training, manuals and visual aids to help them adapt quickly to water-less urinals. We have also found that adaptation is quicker if top management is driving the change.”

Bantug also blamed the prevailing economic environment for the poor state of the water-less urinal retrofit

july 2010 issue

Feature

Pages 6 - 7

Shining through ETAP Dubai CEO, Michael Nuyttens explains to Jose Franco of MEGAWHAT magazine why Dubai offers a huge market for the lighting retrofit

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Leandro Bantug

market. He notes: “With budgets getting slashed, maintaining existing setups gets priority over new installations. In some cases, our clients found it easier to get funding for installations of water-free urinals in new projects and renovations than for retrofits.” He has found that retrofits become less attractive, if the project or facility in question uses a grey-water-treatment system for flushing. If the urinals constitute a very small percentage of the total water fixtures in the facility, the savings from water-less urinals may not be noticeable in the short term.

However, from 2008 to now, awareness of water less urinals has certainly been on the rise. “Given the tight budgets, it is not so much about selling water-less urinals to clients than about showing them opportunities to cut costs and save water.

But it also depends on who we are talking to,” Bantug says.

“Consultants are receptive to the concept as

they have seen the benefits of water-less units in North America and Europe; owners become receptive once they are educated on the longterm savings on operating costs. Facility managers, too, are opening up, because they are well aware of the problems in conventional urinals. But contractors tend to be obsessed with costs and, therefore, regard waterfree urinals as expensive substitutes for conventional water flush urinals.”

Bantug is hopeful that the launch of Green Building regulations and the growing popularity of Green Building rating systems, like LEED and ESTIDAMA, in the region will grow the market for water-less urinals. “Water less urinals also promote the water-conservation goals of the LEED Green Building Rating System,” he says. “In fact, The Bank of America building in New York City, billed as one of the most environment-friendly skyscrapers in the world, uses 200 of our urinals.”

erhaps one of those things that strike any first-time visitor to Dubai is that its offices and residential flats, especially the lobbies and hallways, are so well-lit. Never mind the major streets and thoroughfares, as floodlights are, indeed, important for everyone’s safety at night. Besides, streetlamps don’t burn 24 hours a day, as they have automatic switches.

But how many motorists sometimes forget to switch on their headlights, owing to too

much lighting on the streets?

Fact is majority of Dubai offices and buildings are burning so much energy for unnecessary lighting systems.

The whole Bank Street in Bur Dubai, for instance, has offices with lighting of 40W per square metre, says Michael Nuyttens, CEO of ETAP Dubai.

The ideal lighting for an office, he explains, is 8-12W per square metre of space for 500 lux (lx). An international system of unit, or SI, of luminous emittance,

A high-intensity reflector for energy-friendly luminaires

Retrofit News and Chronicle

Page 8

Feature

An energy-friendly fluorescent tube

lux is used as a measure of the intensity of light as perceived by the human eye when it hits or passes through a surface.

While owners and contractors of new buildings and those in the design stage may be aware of the burden of excessive lighting, those of old facilities could save a lot of money by retrofitting their lighting systems. The initiative would not only increase the value of a building and prepare it for enthusiastic tenants for at least the next 10 years but would also rollback retrofit investments within two years, owing to a resulting drop in energy consumption.

“The value of a building will go up,” says Nuyttens, “and the tenants will love its sophisticated atmosphere.”

A less but adequate consumption of power through a retrofitted lighting system will, likewise, result

in less energy needed for the cooling system in the same building. If you want to do the maths, the basis point is that 1W per square metre of additional lighting will need a corresponding 1W per square metre more of cooling. The 1:1 ratio also applies if the situation is reversed. Imagine how much a commercial building along Bank Street would be able to save by retrofitting its lighting systems?

“There is no [lighting] retrofitting yet in Dubai, but it’s a huge market,” says Nuyttens.

“I’m sure it’s the future.” He is quick to add, though, that owners, contractors and other individuals concerned must first be aware of the benefits of good lighting. “There must be a demand for us to capture the market for retrofit,” he remarks.

A provider of extensive services on best lighting

systems based in Belgium, ETAP can help a building save 50-75% on energy-level use by incorporating in its design the essentials of good lighting, or redesigning existing systems.

If lights consume 3,000W out of the total 10,000W of energy being used in a building, ETAP could further lower the level to 1,500W, Nuyttens says.

The ideal lighting system, he stresses, is three per cent of the building’s cost.

Besides having an efficient system that consumes less energy, Nuyttens says the essentials of good light include the necessary diffusion of lights through energy-friendly luminaires, to cover more spaces at lower costs, and daylight harvesting. The latter needs an ELS, or ETAP Light Control System, to adjust the level of artificial light, in accordance with the daylight level. This makes one enjoy up to 45% savings in energy while

still enjoying the same level of visual comfort. Good lighting may also include the use of IT solutions, such as ETAP’s Energy & Lighting Manager, which ensures the presence of the right quantity of light in the right place at the right time, such as in emergency situations.

While the ETAP lighting system has a lifespan of 20-30 years, Nuyttens says buildings may change theirs in 10-15 years due to advances in technology.

He points out, for instance, that the world is now in a transitory phase with regard to using LED, or a light-emitting diode, as lighting sources. With lower energy consumption and longer lifetime, LEDs are usually used as indicator lamps in electronic devices but are still too expensive to replace the incandescent light sources.

The advances in technology will hopefully address this issue.

Continued from page 24

to produce 25 a day, Pierrefeu says. Likewise, in the case of an order for 2,000 VAVs with five dimensions, the factory can produce 200 pieces a day; however, at times, it gets an order involving 50 dimensions, which makes it impossible to determine the number of pieces the factory can produce in a day. “Customisation is our strength, though,” Pierrefeu says. “We don’t manage workflow based on the number of items we need to produce. One week to another, the production organisation is completely changing.”

Keeping this in mind, Pierrefeu is trying to develop minimum skills levels for the personnel, so that he is in a position to move people from producing sound attenuators to VAVs. “Flexibility is key,” Pierrefeu says. “In sound attenuators, you don’t have a lot of welding, but fire dampers and VCDs demand a lot of welding.”

Flexibility is important from an employability point of view, as well.

Since it is possible for the shop floor personnel to migrate from one task to another, the factory is able to avoid wastage of human resources, Pierrefeu says.

This is particularly crucial in the downturn – it is able to maintain production with a leaner workforce.

Planning for the factory started in the end of 2006.

Construction started in 2007, and 90% of the factory became ready by the middle of 2009. At the time of planning, Aldes and Pierrefeu did not anticipate the severity of the downturn. Today, Pierrefeu admits that the downturn is impacting the factory. “Compared to initial plans, the production capacity is three times what we are currently doing,” he says, looking rueful. “The market is down in Dubai, so we are working on the northern Emirates and Abu Dhabi.”

A saving grace at this point in time is Qatar, says Pierrefeu.

“Qatar is booming for us,” he says. “We have multiplied our sales by three in Qatar. As for Saudi Arabia, it is the next big market. As of now, we are almost zero with regards to Saudi Arabia, though.”

The downturn, Pierrefeu says, is all the more challenging, because people are price-oriented. In his view, a lot of people have invested capital in setting up factories that manufacture similar products, which has led to oversupply of the products. However, most of those products are not reliable, Pierrefeu says. “We, too, make our products locally, but we have a good technical approach. What is missing in the market is regulation, and that’s impacting us.” Pointing to the example of France, Pierrefeu says that while designing a school there, it is mandatory

to have air renewals at five times an hour for a standardsized classroom. This will determine the type of grilles and fans, the dimensions of ducting and the performance of the system. A grille is not just a grille; it directs and regulates air flow.”

Regulation is not just about the product, adds Pierrefeu’s colleague and Marketing Manager of the company, Alexandre Benoit. It is also about whether the product is properly installed or not. “The regulation for ventilation started 40 years ago in France,” he says. “Regulation defines how much air should be extracted from a toilet or a kitchen. It defines a minimum level of working conditions, a minimum level of quality.”

Alexandre Benoit July 2010

CLIMATE CONTROL MIDDLE EAST

25

cover story

IDEA’s 101st Annual Conference & Trade Show

Relentlessly e-e IDEA once again spotlights energy efficiency at annual conference

I

DEA, once again, thrust energy efficiency, as the key area of discussion at its Annual Conference & Trade Show, from June 13 to 16, in Indianapolis, USA. Citizens Thermal Energy of Indianapolis, which owns and operates one of the largest district heating and cooling systems in North America, was the conference host.

According to IDEA, over 450 industry professionals attended the event and participated in technical sessions and visited the exhibition area, consisting of nearly 100 exhibitors.

26

Saying that energy efficiency is what keeps the district energy industry competitive and reliable, IDEA President Rob Thornton, led the opening plenary session, titled, ‘Creating an efficient energy future, one community at a time’. In the session, delegates listened to speakers from the University of North Carolina (UNC), Chapel Hill; the University of Texas (UT), Austin; Seattle Steam and District Energy St Paul on what they had achieved in their campuses and facilities. Juan Ontiveros of UT Austin said that in

CLIMATE CONTROL MIDDLE EAST

July 2010

Rob Thornton

a span of 12 years, the university had added eight million square feet of area, in effect doubling the size of the campus but was using the same amount of energy.

A key area of concentration, Ontiveros said, was plant room efficiency. In January, he added, his team and he had achieved 0.329kW/TR. Owing to its practices, the university had been able to return to 1977 carbon emission level and fuel levels.

Besides energy efficiency, a recurrent theme was the use of renewable energy, with most of the speakers expressing a commitment to convert from coal to biogas and solar. Raymond DuBose of UNC said that the university had instituted an Energy Task Force, which has recommended to end the use of coal by 2010, seek to accelerate conversion to a cleaner fuel or fuel mix and to optimise the use of

The iconic Lucas Oil Stadium, which receives chilled water from Citizens Thermal Energy

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IDEA’s 101st Annual Conference & Trade Show

Winners all...

natural gas, as supplies and cost warrant. In his presentation, DuBose went as far as to call clean coal an oxymoron.

Ken Smith of District Energy St Paul said that the Minnesota-based company was also moving away from coal and that it was working to integrate a solar thermal project. Smith said that the company was, in fact, working to put the largest solar project in the American Midwest.

In a plenary panel discussion that followed,

Fayad Al Khatib of Qatar Cool, David Bump of Thermal Chicago, Dennis Fotinos of Enwave (Toronto), Jamie Dillard of Citizens Thermal and Anders Rydaker of Ever-green Energy (Honolulu) spoke on what they had achieved in terms of offsetting the cooling (heating) demand.

The discussion revealed that Thermal Chicago had managed 30MW of peak demand shift in the city and that Enwave had displaced 61MW of power from the

Exhibits at the show 28

CLIMATE CONTROL MIDDLE EAST

July 2010

Toronto power grid.

Al Khatib (see interview) said that Qatar Cool was able to achieve below 0.9kW/TR when compared to the 1.7kW/ TR of conventional systems.

This, he said, translated to a savings of one million barrels of oil and four million Btu of natural gas a year.

The assertions prompted Thornton to ask whether or not the companies were getting credit for their accomplishments. “The question is, are we getting credit for that?” Thornton

said. “Can we do something to raise our profile in this era of smart grid?”

From a Middle Eastern perspective, Al Khatib’s presence at the conference was a noteworthy one. The General Manager of Qatar Cool not only participated in the panel discussion but also, along with Thornton, signed an agreement, which formalised Qatar Cool as the host of the fifth International District Cooling Conference & Trade Show, to be held on November 8 and 9 at The

Grand Hyatt Doha, under the theme, ‘District cooling: greener buildings, smarter grid’. Conducted by IDEA, the event will get its first airing in the peninsula; the previous four events were held in the UAE. On the second day of the conference in Indianapolis, Al Khatib, on behalf of Qatar Cool, also received two awards. The district cooling provider won gold for the number of buildings committed to district energy in 2009 and silver for the total building area committed to district energy. Qatar Cool contracted 44 new buildings in 2009, serving 11,060,237 square feet.

In November, Qatar Cool will have the largest district cooling plant in the world, when its newest plant on The Pearl-Qatar is inaugurated (see same interview with Fayad Al Khatib).

Palm District Cooling (PDC) and Empower also bagged awards in Indianapolis. PDC won gold for the total building area committed and Empower bronze in the same category. The two companies were not present to collect the awards.

During the plenary panel discussion

Jim Hawkins, Simpert Green Solutions

Rob Thornton and Fayad Al Khatib during the signing ceremony

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CLIMATE CONTROL MIDDLE EAST

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cover story

IDEA’s 101st Annual Conference & Trade Show

At the Lakos stand

At the Uponor stand

John Andrepont, The Cool Solutions Company

The Onicon team

Qatar in November atar Cool will be hosting IDEA’s International District Cooling Conference & Trade Show in November in Doha. Climate Control Middle East caught up with Fayad Al Khatib, the company’s General Manager, during IDEA’s 101st Annual Conference and Trade Show, in June, in Indianapolis, during which he spoke about what to expect in November, about the district cooling provider’s progress in Pearl Qatar and its willingness to accept alternative sources of water.

What does it mean to Qatar Cool to play host to IDEA’s 5th International District Cooling Conference and Trade Show in November in Doha?

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CLIMATE CONTROL MIDDLE EAST

We at Qatar Cool support a conference like this not only for the sake of Qatar Cool but also for building more awareness of district energy in the region. An IDEA conference is an opportunity to hear from district energy experts, suppliers and so on. The people at IDEA are established and solid. They have opened doors for us, and we want them to open doors for others in the region. I feel we don’t do justice to district energy in our region, in terms of explaining it. We are five years old, IDEA is 101 years old.

The conference is not about Qatar Cool but about IDEA. We are only a tool for IDEA to come to the region. We want the district energy voice to be heard.

What prompted you to choose

July 2010

Qatar Cool’s district cooling plant in Pearl Qatar is the largest in world. At this point in time, it has a unique character in that while a part of it is under operation, another part is being commissioned and yet another part is being constructed.

How do you manage to reconcile the three rather divergent activities?

The group operating the plant is concerned that the service should be reliable, the equipment is reliable, consumables are available, utilities are as they need, and that tools are available for routine maintenance. The group that is commissioning has a work-profile that is zonespecific and is more task-oriented, which means the work stops and starts. The construction group has the task of completing MEP-related work. The people in the group use specialised equipment in the plant. They have to bring in welding equipment. Against this background, the challenge is to ensure that these groups work independently and yet jointly.

The construction group is working above, below and around. It may be using power and water. The group operating the plant is working in a previously commissioned area. So there are common areas, and so safety is a challenge.

Another challenge is logistics. Bringing in materials and not affecting the facilities team is definitely a challenge. The storage area may not be completed. We have to make sure we have the required tools, spares and personnel.

And all the while, the client should not feel any of the behind-the-scenes activities; they only need reliable service.

Yet another challenge is that different entities may want to protect their own interests. So for us, the challenge is that all activities are coordinated. We have weekly (formal) meetings and informal meetings, what we call as toolbox meetings. The last thing we want is a clash of activities. We have made them realise the importance of safety and commissioning.

It’s a nice challenge, really. The plant is very well run, though, and I am proud of that. There are lots of people interacting… contractors, master developers, suppliers and operators. So far, there have been no interruptions and no incidents or issues. It doesn’t happen on its own, so a job really well done.

The TSE network is being commissioned. The network was in place sometime last year. We are working in close coordination with Kahramaa, and we are waiting for them to provide that. Kahramaa are as much anxious to use TSE as we are. We want to try TSE out and make its use a success. My personal goal is to use TSE and, further, use it for irrigation. We are in talks with treatment suppliers, and we are in a position to engage them. It is an opportunity to conserve water usage, and I look forward to it. In Plant 2 (West Bay) and in the Pearl Plant, we can easily integrate ourselves to TSE; in Plant 1 (West Bay), though, it will not be so easy; with some modifications, we may be able to use TSE.

What about seawater? In an earlier interview, you did say that the shallow water posed a challenge.

We are not closing doors on seawater.

We will continue to look at new technologies for seawater, potable, TSE. Part of the reason we come to such conferences (IDEA) is to try to stay close to latest developments and to designers. It is important we stay engaged and plan for the future. We don’t want to wait till somebody says, “You don’t do it.”

As far as water conservation is concerned, we have been operating Plant 1 since 2007; and we have done a remarkable job in reducing water and power use by 20%.

We measure and analyse lot of data, and we take small steps; the trend is going in the right direction,

A P G . 1 0 _ K-I N N O _ S I . B E //

the theme, ‘District Cooling: Greener Buildings, Smarter Grid’?

Operating a grid is a very important issue for operators, because it impacts reliability, bottom-line and efficiency. We talk about our intranet grid, but there is also a client’s grid.

It’s important to talk about their grid, because it affects our grid. So it is really linked and a fascinating subject.

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cover story

IDEA’s 101st Annual Conference & Trade Show

which is very interesting. In Plants 1 and 2, the crews are competing over efficiency and reliability; and we reward the best team. We have achieved below 0.9kW/TR for both plants combined.

Rob (Thornton) did ask this question during the panel discussion, and I am going to ask it again – do you get credit from the Government for your achievements?

I see it as a two-way communication. We are a group of engineers and financial professionals who did not spend time on publicising our achievements. But I think we realised two things: We need proper training in presenting our achievements and that we need to make sure that the data is sustainable and not a onetime occurrence. Today, we have solid data that we can present. Earlier, we were very number-oriented, we were very detail-oriented, but now, we are able to connect better. And we are starting to receive proper credit. A month ago, during a meeting with the water planning department, they were asking us about our water experience in district cooling. We presented the actual data from our plants, and they were impressed.

We are trying to do that with other utilities, as well.

Communication is a two-way process. If you want to be recognised, you need to show to be recognised.

What data are you showing?

We are putting information that end users can understand. We are presenting to them water- and power-related data, whatever is relevant to them. If they want to talk about environment, then we talk about emissions. If they want to talk about water then we present only water-oriented data. People have a 20-minute attention span; maybe, it is just 12 minutes. Our subject is new. In the past, we overdelivered information, we gave a complete crash course for an hour and 30 minutes; today, we are to the point.

In view of the shale gas phenomenon in the US, how is Qatar reacting?

Fortunately, I was in the steel industry, and we used natural gas. The demand equation for natural gas is growing worldwide. Seven to eight years ago, natural gas was a very hot commodity. It was considered a clean and cheaper energy, and so it peaked to $15 MMBtu. So investment in technology started.

Then, people started looking at alternative forms of energy, like wind and nuclear, which caused the use of natural gas to go down; but it is a fantastic fuel.

Shale gas is comparable in cost, but everything goes in cycles. People will move from coal-fired to gasfired. Even if there is a supply glut, demand will catch up. End users are very clever and have learnt to be flexible. So I don’t see shale gas impacting Qatar. The worldwide demand for natural gas will increase. And besides, Qatar has its Vision 2030, the goal of which is to diversify the economy. LNG currently accounts for 70% of the country’s GDP. But it is Qatar that is at the forefront of using natural gas as jet fuel. So Qatar is very proactive. The leadership in Qatar is visionary.

What they have planned is outstanding. We are not just developing projects, we are making history.

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‘District cooling is the perfect underpinning for smart grid IDEA President Rob Thornton comments on the theme of the upcoming IDEA Conference in Qatar and on the value district cooling can bring to the region.

I earlier spoke to Fayad Al Khatib asking him about the IDEA Conference in November. Could you now share with the readers the IDEA perspective on the event?

We would really like to stay consistent with the mission, which is to collaborate and share information. We are going to focus on smart grid and green buildings. We want to see electric utilities operating more efficiently, and district cooling is the perfect underpinning for smart grid.

In the US, we are going to move to time-of-day rates and more efficient allocation of power. And this enhances

the value of district cooling, because district cooling removes the bad cholesterol. In Qatar, 70% of the power is used for air conditioning. We want to put people together who have direct experience in industry.

The issues are cost recovery and value proposition. People look at district cooling and then look at price, and it is not the appropriate way to evaluate district cooling. We want to bring business models, and structuring contracting arrangements between providers and clients. We want to help people not only understand district cooling but also communicate it. We want to help customers of district cooling to be effective consumers. We want to look at energy efficiency and maximise the efficiency of plants. Further, we want to look at utility master-planning, both from a physical asset and a capital asset point of view.

What lessons learnt in UAE, do you think, can be applied in Qatar?

In Dubai, we came out fine, but in the mindset of the downturn, people rightly had to focus on issues at hand. There is a lot of experience that can be shared. I am not talking about importing IDEA experience; we will look to be collaborative. IDEA is about

sharing experiences. We learn from colleagues from Europe on how to make buildings as efficient as possible and on how to manage assets.

What kind of conference do you hope to experience in Qatar?

We are going to be conservative in our expectations of attendance.

It’s not the robust pace of growth of the past three to four years. People are looking ahead at different technologies, they are looking at renewable energy. Our members here are looking at renewable energy. CHP may make sense there (in the GCC) at some point in time.

Efficiency in central plant will grow in importance, as fuel continues to be a valuable export commodity.

We are coming, because we made a commitment to the

industry. It’s not a Qatar conference but just happens to be in Qatar. District cooling remains a universal opportunity. Qatar is a willing and engaging host. They have invested substantially and, I think, will continue to grow.

With Qatar Cool as host, we certainly want to focus on what they have done and are doing. Just like here in Indianapolis, the host is Indianapolis, and we want to shine the spotlight on them.

But the content should be of universal value. Sometimes, we will address issues that are pressing, like water and power. This is a conference hosted by Qatar Cool in Doha, and we hope that people come from everywhere to participate.

At a recent district cooling event in Dubai, Mohammad Abusaa of

ADC Energy Systems said that the district cooling industry ought to take note of the fact that the air-cooled market is not sitting still and that it is, in fact, building better efficiencies, which is a challenge for district cooling providers.

How big a challenges is the development from a district cooling perspective?

District cooling in the US has never had the default advantage that it has had in Dubai, so we know how to compete. Is the pendulum swinging? Yes, quite possibly, but I haven’t been focused on current issues in the Middle East, and certainly not like Mohammad, to comment on this.

In the US, we have never operated under the premise that if you build it, they will

come. We have operated on the premise that it has to be economically competitive.

People should not over-react and throw the baby out of the bathwater. You just can’t be short term. If you are talking of segments of development as opposed to masterplanned developments, I understand the approach is different. I have encountered plants on nodal basis that were later interconnected. We have all lived through economic ups and downs in the US and through substantial buildout in cities. The important thing is what is in the best interest of stakeholders, and we can bring value to the discussion. You need to look at individual contexts; there is no silver bullet. You need to look at every city and every region on an individual basis.

It’s a matter of adapting to different challenges.

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insight

Mapping the underworld without excavation Locating buried infrastructure for utility management, especially in crowded urban environments, is a challenge, as existing techniques have limitations. Now a UK-based multi-university, multi-disciplinary initiative aims to research and develop tools to locate, position and digitally record all buried utilities in all ground conditions in the country. The project, when completed, could have farreaching implications.

I

t is estimated that there are enough pipes and cables buried within the UK that, if laid end to end, would stretch to the moon and back 10 times. These buried pipes and cables provide the principal means to supply power, gas, telecommunications and clean water, as well as remove foul water and, as such, are vital to modern living. They require regular maintenance and, occasionally, require emergency repair in the event of failure, to maintain their function. New sections of pipeline are often added to the existing networks 34

to ensure that the utilities can cope with increasing demand. Without careful control of these networks, the disruption in supply can result in the breakdown of modern living (as illustrated by the outbreak of cholera in Zimbabwe in 2008 due to poor control of sewage and potable water supply networks, BBC, 2008).

The traditional construction techniques associated with maintenance or installation of buried utilities in the UK utilise open-cut methods.

The principal advantages of open-cut techniques are that construction workers can

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July 2010

Written records describing the location of buried utilities are often imprecise or wrong, leading to frequent failure to locate the desired utility.

see what they are dealing with and have space, even if limited, in which to work.

However, open-cut methods damage the carriageway, potentially damage adjacent utilities during excavation and disrupt societyâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;s functions (congestion caused by street works is considered a major problem within the UK). It is estimated that up to four million holes are dug in the UK road network each year to install, or maintain existing utilities. Written records describing the location of buried utilities are often imprecise or wrong, leading to frequent failure

to locate the desired utility (known as dry-holes). A report published by McMahon et al.

(2005) estimated that street works associated with utility management cost the UK economy £7 billion annually (£1.5 billion in direct costs and £5.5 billion in disruption to society’s function).

Alternatives to trenching do exist: geophysical detection techniques can be employed to locate utilities without the need for excavation, and trenchless technologies can be used to refurbish or install new utilities. However, these are not commonly used in preference to open-cut trenching, due to perceived limitations associated with the techniques.

An investigation into geophysical performance was undertaken by Ashdown (2001), with geophysical location companies being invited to survey a test site where the locations of the buried utilities were known.

Figure 1: MTU Timeline. (ASTT, 2008)

An 80% detection rate, at best, was returned. It is not suggested that detection rates

would still be at the same level nearly a decade on.

And there clearly has been

improvement in technology and surveying practices.

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insight detection rate in all ground conditions, using geophysical techniques, is still beyond current means.

The inability to locate all buried infrastructure, effectively results in installations being conducted using trenchless technologies that can disturb the ground, without full knowledge of what is buried below.

This raises the level of risk associated with utility strikes and makes the trenchless techniques less appealing than open-cut methods.

Mapping the Underworld (MTU) is a UK-based multiuniversity, multi-disciplinary research initiative that aims to research and develop the tools necessary to achieve the location, positioning and digital recording of 100% of the buried utilities in all ground conditions. It is envisaged that the successful completion of MTU’s aims will promote the adoption of geophysical detection techniques and trenchless technology installation/ maintenance techniques when working in the street.

The MTU initiative commenced in 2005, and has a 15-year programme (Figure 1). The first phase of the project (2005-2009) comprised four research projects: a study investigating the feasibility of a multi-sensor platform; methods to determine the position of utilities using surveying methods, even in crowded urban environments; development of a common format for a cross-utility company electronic records database; and resonant tags that increase the likelihood for detection of utilities fitted with the tags when using ground-penetrating radar (these tags can be retrofitted to existing pipes during maintenance cycles or built into the walls during the construction of new pipes).

Each of these projects has received further funding. (See Figure 1).

In 2009, the MTU Location 36

Figure 2: Concept of the multi-sensor device and external database combining to predict what is buried below. (Configuration of device and location of the sensors are only provided as a representation and are not meant to be an accurate depiction of the device) (Rogers et al., 2009)

The four location technologies have been selected as no single technique has the potential to detect all buried utilities in all ground conditions.

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July 2010

project (development of a multi-sensor platform) received £3.5 million in funding from the UK’s Engineering and Physical Sciences Research Council to research and develop a multi-sensor platform.

This platform will utilise four location technologies: ground-penetrating radar (GPR), vibro-acoustics, lowfrequency electromagnetic and passive magnetic fields. Two of the location techniques (GPR and vibro-acoustics) are being optimised for the project, whilst the remaining location techniques are being developed from first principles. The four location technologies have been selected, as no single technique has the potential to detect all buried utilities in all ground conditions (when considering the sheer range of variations in possible burial depths, pipe materials and ground conditions that could be encountered on site), whereas the four location techniques operating in

conjunction might.

To improve detection rates still further, and reduce the impact of ground conditions on the location techniques, the potential for the development of in-pipe sensors – to work in conjunction with the surface mounted multisensor platform – for GPR and vibro-acoustic techniques is being investigated (Figure 2). Preliminary testing of the combined locating technologies is due to commence in the summer of 2010. (See Figure 2) The multi-sensor device is being developed on a principle that it should not be used in isolation. Additional sources of information for a site due to be surveyed are likely to exist, and these should be incorporated into the surveying process to ensure that every opportunity is exploited to locate all of the buried utilities. For example, records for the utilities found on a site are often available and the ground conditions on site are known, or can be derived.

recruitment Research is being undertaken to fuse the data from the four sensors with existing electronic location records for the site being surveyed (should they exist), thus providing an additional data feed to increase the confidence in the location of the buried utilities. Discrepancies can be used to inform additional data analysis, to increase detection rates to 100%, or if it is found that the records are incorrect, then the data from the multi-sensor device can be used to update the electronic records. Additionally, research is being undertaken to identify the relationship between the geotechnical and geophysical properties of the ground. The understanding generated will be used as a foundation for a ‘knowledge-based system’ (KBS) that is being developed to help inform the surveyor of the ground conditions on site and their effects on the geophysical signals.

The KBS is based on the electronic records regarding the ground conditions within the UK (parent rock, soils, pore water chemistry, etc) held by the British Geological Survey. It will utilise the understanding of the interaction between the soil and the geophysical signals and the change in soil properties with changes in season (also being developed in the project), to inform the surveyor and allow the optimisation of the deployment strategies for the individual sensors and the optimisation of data analysis.

References: Ashdown C. (2001). Mains Location Equipment A State of the Art Review and Future Research Needs – Final Report.

UK Water Industry Research, London, UKWIR Report Number: 01/WM/06/1, ISBN: 1 84057 233 7 ASTT (2008) Utility Location: Mapping the Underworld: Locating Buried Assets Without Excavation. Trenchless Australasia, Published by Great Southern Press of behalf of

the Australasian Society for Trenchless Technology, October 2008 pp. 40-42 BBC (2008). Water crisis hinders cholera fight. Online article posted on Wednesday, December 3, 2008. Last accessed June 2010, for further information please see: http://news.bbc.co.uk/1/hi/ world/africa/7761520.stm McMahon W., Burtwell M.H. and Evans M. (2005). Minimising Street Works Disruption: The Real Costs of Street Works to the Utility Industry and Society. UK Water Industry Research, London, UKWIR Report Number: 05/ WM/12/8, ISBN: 1 84057 408 9.

Rogers C.D.F., Chapman D.N., Royal A.C.D. and Metje N. (2009).

The Mapping The UK Underworld Project. Proceedings of the International No-Dig Show 2009 Toronto, Ontario Canada March 29 – April 3, 2009 The article has been jointly compiled by the following: Royal, A.C.D1., Rogers, C.D.F1, Atkins P.R.2, Brennan, M.J.3, Chapman, D.N.1, Chen, H. 4, Cohn, A.G.4, Curioni, G.1, Foo, K.Y2, Goddard, K.5, Hao, T.1, Lewin, P.L.5, Metje, N.1, Muggleton, J.M.3, Naji, A.6, Pennock, S.R.6, Redfern, M.A.6, Saul, A.J.7, Swingler, S.G.5 and Wang, P. 5.

1 School of Civil Engineering, University of Birmingham 2 School of Electronic, Electrical and Computer Engineering, University of Birmingham 3 Institute of Sound and Vibration Research, University of Southampton 4 School of Computing, University of Leeds 5 School of Electronics and Computer Science, University of Southampton 6 Department of Electronic and Electrical Engineering, University of Bath 7 Department of Civil and Structural Engineering, University of Sheffield If you want to get in touch …

MTU (www.mappingtheunderworld. ac.uk) is a collaborative research project, benefiting from the generous input and involvement from its many industry partners.

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Econosto Group, whose head office is in Capelle aan den IJssel, the Netherlands, operates worldwide in the manufacturing, development, marketing, distribution and service of a full range of high-quality valves, pipes and related equipment for various industries including Oil and Gas, HVAC and Marine.

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To be considered for this role, you must have a Degree in Mechanical Engineering and at least 5 years experience in sales/marketing and market research in the UAE/ME. Existing relationship and good rapport with MEP contractors / consultants are required. Thorough knowledge of valves and piping products related to the HVAC industry and a valid UAE driver’s license are essential.

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The Güntner Group, with its headquarters in Fürstenfeldbruck, Germany, is a global leader for the production of refrigeration and air conditioning components. Operators include, among others, the international automotive, food, pharmaceutical and computer industries as well as a large number of public facilities. Founded in Germany in 1931, the Güntner Group is present for its customers and partners today with nine production sites as well as 40 sales offices and subsidiaries, worldwide.

To support our Güntner Middle East Team, we are looking for an experienced and qualified SALES MANAGER, reporting directly to the Managing Director Middle East • 2 - 3 years experience in refrigeration • Familiarity with the Middle East market, and based in Dubai • Regular travels required • Fluency in English is a must • Knowledge of spoken Arabic will be an advantage • UAE driving license required • Joining date: as soon as possible Please send your application to Svenja Konken s.konken@guentner.de and visit our website www.guentner.de for more information.

July 2010

CLIMATE CONTROL MIDDLE EAST

37

perspective

The race to slash energy consumption With rising levels of energy consumption and forecasts of an increase in peak electricity demand by 12% for 2012, energy reduction is the top priority in the UAE. But it is no longer merely a matter of a political debate, but poses a challenge to the entire energy circle, argues Hans Altmann.

T

he energy industry in the UAE has deployed a number of measures to cut down energy consumption at various levels. It has assumed the position of top priority in the capital. Government initiatives have called for a 38

reduction in the current peak demand by 622 megawatts, thereby achieving capital expenditure savings worth Dh500 million. The plan is to achieve this through a series of policies directed at businesses as well as end-consumers.

Businesses, specifically developers, will be asked to

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July 2010

follow certain energy efficiency standards for constructing buildings as well as for using specified cooling equipment and energy appliances. Endconsumers are expected to benefit considerably from these measures over the long term. While the Emirates has proposed to help boost energy

efficiency at these diverse levels, residents and businesses would want to consider the current approaches carefully.

CURRENT ENERGY CONSUMPTION â&#x20AC;&#x201C; FACTS AND FIGURES Given that a countryâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;s energy consumption is correlated

to its gross national product (GNP) and its climate, there are apparent differences between developed and developing countries, in terms of their respective energy use. Energy consumption is the highest in the United States, with a yearly average of 11.4kW (Kilowatt) per person, compared to Japan and Germany, with 6kW. Developing countries with a tropical climate, such as India have an energy use of 0.7kW per person.

In the UAE, statistics covering all the emirates has not yet been published.

The numbers for Abu Dhabi, however, show that a typical resident consumes on an average 41kW of electricity per year. Considering the different standard of living, such as size of the house and property (Arab houses and properties being bigger than those of the Americans), and the number of members in a household (Arab families are typically larger than American families, and also include domestic staff), the difference should be great. Yet, the variation doesn’t seem huge and might imply a case of over-consumption in the Emirate – typical of a high-income developing economy, as classified by the International Monetary Fund (IMF).

A recent guide on international energy outlook by the Energy Information Administration (EIA) states

that developed regions, such as North America, Europe, parts of Asia (Japan and South Korea), Australia and New Zealand account for the largest share of current world energy consumption. However, the situation is expected to change, with a rapidly growing energy demand in emerging economies, such as in Asia, Africa, the Middle East and Central and South America.

In 2006, 51% of world energy was consumed in developed economies, but in 2030 their share is expected to fall to 41%.

Developing countries, however, will require more energy.

The EIA guide confirms that energy consumption for the Middle East is growing, and is expected to increase by 36% from 2010 to 2030.

The use of electricity, specifically, is projected to account for an increasing share of the world’s total energy demand, and is considered the fastest growing form of enduse energy worldwide in the mid-term.

Since 1990, growth in net electricity generation has outpaced the growth in total energy consumption, with 2.9 per cent per year for electricity and 1.9 per cent per year for energy. Thus, it is evident that the growth in demand for electricity continues to outpace growth in total energy use.

The developing countries consumed 45% of the world’s total electricity supply in 2006, and their share of world consumption is expected to increase. In 2030, the estimate allocates 58% of world electricity use to developing countries with an increase in the Middle East, due to strong economic growth, which translates into growing demand for electricity.

Businesses, specifically developers, will be asked to follow certain energy efficiency standards for constructing buildings as well as for using specified cooling equipment and energy appliances.

awareness campaigns targeted at end-consumers.

Reducing CO2 emission: The UAE is known to have one of the highest per capita emission rates in the world, with CO2 emissions having increased from 60,809,000 tonnes in 1990 to 94,163,000 tonnes in 2002. A recent development project on behalf of the Abu Dhabi Water & Electricity Authority (ADWEA) indicates that steps are being taken towards reducing the carbon dioxide emission rates. For example, due to implementation of advanced technology and transition to the use of natural gas in power plants, emission of CO2 per capita has decreased. In 1990, the UAE emitted 32.6 tonnes of CO2 per person per year, making the UAE the fourth on the top emitter per capita global ranking list.

Among the various

FEDERAL MEASURES Currently, various means are being pursued for introducing energy-efficient measures, including ways of reducing CO2 emissions, the introduction of green building standards, the opening of IRENA and July 2010

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perspective measures that are being implemented by ADWEA to reduce emission rates is, monitoring of carbon emissions, air quality in the vicinity of power plants, natural gas fuel consumption, plant efficiency and system upgrading. In addition, a multi-phased approach to technology selection has been adopted in order to encourage and support renewable energy companies to produce five to seven per cent of the required power capacity.

Green building standards: The Abu Dhabi Urban Planning Council has adopted a policy geared towards the long-awaited green building standards. According to the Plan Abu Dhabi 2030 (Urban Structure Framework Plan), developers should pursue green building standards for design and construction that responds to the local climate, and is based on sustainable building practices (for example,

40

In 2006, 51% of world energy was consumed in developed economies, but in 2030 their share is expected to fall to 41%.

Developing countries, however, will require more energy.

CLIMATE CONTROL MIDDLE EAST

solar orientation, xeriscaping, life cycle materials), and create an Abu Dhabi Green Building Council to this end, in cooperation with the Environmental Agency.

With this initiative, the Urban Planning Council has introduced the countryâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;s first efficiency standards on buildings, which will later target appliances and air conditioning to abolish devices that are not energy inefficient, within a few years.

BREEAM and LEED For the uninitiated, BREEAMÂ stands for the BRE Environmental Assessment Method, and was invented by the Building Research Establishment (BRE), a building research organisation funded mainly by the government. Based in the UK, this organisation seeks to provide relevant research and information to the building industry about what kind of methods would best support environmental protection and sustainable development.

BREEAM assesses the performance of buildings in: overall management policy, operational energy and carbon dioxide issues, and air and water pollution issues.

LEED was set up in the US and is run by the US Green Building Council (USGBC).

According to the USGBC, LEED is responsible for the following activities: defining green building by establishing a common standard of measurement, promoting integrated, whole-building design practices, recognising environmental leadership in the building industry, stimulating green competition, raising consumer awareness of green building benefits, and transforming the building market.

The two methods differ

July 2010

mainly in the process of certification. With the BREEAM method, companies have to go via a trained assessor, who evaluates the credit criteria and issues the certificate afterwards. LEED does not require training, but there is a credit available if an accredited professional is used, who advises the client on the assessment of the certificate. Both schemes share common components. Early involvement of the assessor or accredited professional at the design stage is beneficial to the project and the final rating.

Both methods drive the market to improve building design and their judging criteria, and also keep pace with legislative developments and current best practice.

IRENA Abu Dhabi has invested considerable resources to be chosen as the interim headquarters of IRENA, the International Renewable Energy Agency. Since June 2009, Abu Dhabi has become home to this internationally recognised entity, that aims to promote widespread and increased adoption and sustainable use of all forms of renewable energy. With this, Abu Dhabi has acquired the credibility to act as a global voice for renewable energies, to facilitate access to all relevant information and to share experience on best practices related to policy frameworks and energy efficiency measures.

With the presence of this global organisation, the emirate sets measurable milestones on finding other sources of energy against the backdrop of increasing levels of energy consumption.

Targeting the residential sector The residential sector consumes the most amount of energy, with 70% of electricity used for cooling homes, and thereby represents the greatest opportunity for energy savings. Making

residential houses more energy efficient and educating residents about more energy-conscious practices can help savings up to 25%. With smart metering devices and subsequently, consumptionbased billing, consumers can measure their cooling energy consumption clearly. Studies on and measuring of energy consumption in various European countries have led to the same result: over time, consumers understand where and how much they actually consume energy and act accordingly.

A recent study by McKinsey states that the incremental investment to make 129 million US homes (with appliances, devices and upgrades) more energy efficient would be $229 billion, which would lead to savings of $395 billion. For this, an initial investment is required, and a typical retrofit would cost $1,500 absorbing 30% of annual discretionary spending.

Here, the question is not how much to invest and how much we can save, but who bears these costs and implements these measures. There are, indeed, challenges that might discourage the endconsumer and the developer, but clear measures at the federal level will outweigh the costs. A series of measures should be implemented to realise savings on both the consumer’s wallet and the globe’s energy resources.

These views, I must add, are in line with McKinsey’s study, recommending countries to introduce a comprehensive energy policy that is directed at various levels: the residential sector, to implement energy-efficient devices and appliances and to educate consumers to become more energy-conscious; the commercial sector, to make buildings and office devices more energy efficient; and the industrial sector, to optimise energy-consuming support systems, such as motors, buildings, and steam systems. It is more likely that the implementation of these series of measures will make consumers and businesses more aware of the importance and profitability of changing their energy consumption patterns.

BARRIERS The options available to reduce the UAE’s energy consumption confuse both policymakers and management alike. Reducing CO2 emissions is a timeconsuming process, and often presents business risks with associated new technology that requires large capital investments. At the same time, the introduction of various green building standards necessitates the close cooperation of various companies, which might have

the same goal in mind, yet with different approaches, which makes the alignment difficult. Meanwhile, the prospect of reducing energy demand raises anxiety that the end-consumer’s convenience and comfort would be compromised, an unfavourable trade-off for consumers.

When you apply a holistic approach when introducing an energy policy, it becomes obvious that the proposition needs to be comprehensive and cover all areas of concern – information targeted at consumers, financially attractive incentives to motivate energy savings, a solid financing infrastructure to

support retrofitting and energy-efficient renovations and a series of demand-side energy policies for businesses. These opportunities make the possibility of reducing energy consumption and pursuing positive returns towards energy efficiency, particularly alluring for all parties involved in the energy circle – policy makers, businesses and end-consumers.

The writer is Regional Manager, Techem for the MENA region.

He can be contacted at hans.altmann@techem.de.

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endpoint

Masood Raza

Masappeal Masood Raza, Head of Engineering of Abu Dhabi-based PAL Technology has experienced the boom and downturn in UAE. Here, he says that while district cooling is based on sound technocommercial principles, which are independent of an economic boom or downturn, the industry is not without its fair share of challenges.

My background I was born in a small village in the land of Buddha. I studied in many government schools, owing to my father’s frequent transfers in his job.

I completed my secondary school examination with highest marks in the district, which stayed as a record for another six years. I also represented the district in many scientific exhibitions, debates, singing competitions and, above all, cricket.

After schooldays, I qualified 42

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in a competitive examination to join a graduate programme in Mechanical Engineering from India’s second oldest technical school, which prior to Independence, was an affiliate of Prince of Wales University. For a short time, I studied in Asia’s largest mining college at that time; I did not continue owing to personal reasons.

After passing out with a degree in Mechanical Engineering, I appeared for competitive examination

and was selected for many prestigious organisations. I spent a few months as a Graduate Trainee with Steel Authority of India Ltd (SAIL). Later, I joined MECON (Metallurgical and Engineering Consultants (I) Ltd). At that time, MECON had 2,500 engineers working in the field of designing and installing blast furnaces, sponge iron plants, SMS (steel melting shops), coke ovens, power plants and other metallurgical plants and ancillaries. I spent about seven years at MECON, working as a design engineer in the Environmental Engineering Section.

In 1991, MECON became the first consulting firm in India to obtain ISO 9000 accreditation. During this process, I played a crucial role of formalising the departmental Quality Manual. The experience contributed extensively to my perfectionist attitude. Today, nothing exits my office unless it has been reviewed and approved by at least two team members, other than the one who performs the designing or report generation. During my time at MECON, I also completed an 18-month postgraduate diploma in Management.

After spending seven years at MECON, I took a decision to seek fresh opportunities in the GCC. My first port of call was Saudi Arabia, where I joined TEP-6, the largest telecommunication expansion project in the Gulf at the time. Having worked in the Environmental Engineering section of MECON, I had a good knowledge of HVAC systems and, thus, joined the Stone and Webster team from Canada in finalising the HVAC system capacities at TEP-6.

The experience gave me an in-depth knowledge of HVAC systems and practices, considering that TEP-6 involved expansion of existing exchanges and satellite stations. The scope involved the survey of existing capacities, estimate of available capacity for expansion and the design of additional air conditioning capacities for the expansion.

Gerry and UAE In 1997, I shifted to the UAE. Naturally, given my background, I was offered projects relating to the UAE telecommunication provider, ETISALAT. I joined Shankland Cox, a consultancy firm based in Al Ain that was involved in many projects for ETISALAT.

I spent eight years with Shankland Cox, and those were my careerdefining years. I was involved in many prestigious projects that came with great design challenges: a 50m x 50m call centre for 500 agents with raisedfloor air conditioning; and a large atrium in Sheikh Zayed University for Girls, air conditioned without air nozzles or conspicuous grilles/diffusers.

Speaking of which, one of the first condensate-collection systems for cooling tower make-up was designed for the same university.

The Etisalat office and commercial tower in Dubai was yet another project I was involved in. It was designed and constructed with high-end electromechanical services, despite posing serious problems, owing to the fact that each floor was different from the other.

Gerry McGuire, my mentor and Technical Director of Shankland Cox, made my professional life very colourful by providing new challenges every day. Some of his suggestions sounded outrageous, but we somehow achieved an excellent success rate.

At the time of my coming to Dubai, water-cooled chillers were a nonstarter as an option, even though lifecycle analyses clearly showed a marked advantage for large watercooled plants. When, one day, Gerry brought a design report for a district cooling plant, we were taken aback, as this was a paradigm shift in the way air conditioning systems would be designed. Water-cooled chillers, very large capacity plants and large delta Tsâ&#x20AC;Ś nothing was conventional about the report. This was the start of my deep and long-term association with district cooling plants. In association with Kattner FVB, the first district cooling plant in a commercial area was built in record time for Tabreed. The existing vegetable mall was, thus, converted to Al Jimi Mall, a star attraction in Al Ain. My association with Tabreed projects continued for many years, and I was actively associated with their Fujairah, Towaisah (defence), Muroor (Abu Dhabi) and Sheikh Zayed Sports City plants.

When, one day, Gerry brought a design report for a district cooling plant, we were taken aback, as this was a paradigm shift in the way air conditioning systems would be designed.

cGuire With Gery M

PAL Technology My next stop in the journey with district cooling was the Dubai Festival City plant. At the time of handing over of this project, I received an July 2010

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endpoint offer from PAL Technology in Abu Dhabi, which appeared to me to be a natural progression from consulting to DC provider.

I have been working with PAL Technology for over three and a half years. PAL Technology, at this point in time, is involved in about 400,000 TR of district cooling projects that are in various stages of completion. A 90,000 TR district cooling plant is on the verge of supplying chilled water to Al Reem island’s Tamouh Development, which has about three million square metres of air conditioned floor area.

PAL Technology belongs to Pal Group, a part of Royal Group of companies in Abu Dhabi, and is active in many fields, like construction, RO plants, IT services, media, dredging and trading.

PAL Group, together with Royal Group, is one of the fastest-growing companies in UAE. I consider my present stint with PAL Technology as the most “youthful” years of my life. The company is dominated by an aggressive young brigade of professionals, for whom nothing is un-achievable. For example, we have taken up the challenge of completing a Dh 1 billion project, involving 500 villas and infrastructure work, all in the span of 10 months.

At PAL, in addition to advising on the technical aspects of the district cooling division, I am also heading an in-house consulting firm, called PACE.

Life in the UAE I have completed over a decade of the best period of my life in the UAE, and I would not change even a bit of it, given a choice. The UAE is at the crossroads of the East and the West. It is a virtual United Nations. With over 150 nationalities living here, there is no lack of variety of life styles. The UAE is full of opportunities and, thus, represents a destination of choice for millions like me.

I have learned a lot from the UAE and wish to keep contributing to the growth and development of the country as far as possible.

District cooling is a technologyintensive business; even though it is not rocket science, some of the aspects require a specialist’s opinion, if profitability is to be maintained.

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CLIMATE CONTROL MIDDLE EAST

District cooling, then and now As I mentioned in one of the IDEA panel discussions, the business of district cooling is based on very sound techno-commercial principles, which are independent of such factors as an economic boom or downturn.

The downturn that is visiting us has forced district cooling providers to take July 2010

a breather and rethink some of the old strategies. While I was with MECON, we used to have a very interesting saying, which was displayed on the wall near the boardroom: ‘In MECON, all managers are engineers first’. District cooling is a technology-intensive business; even though it is not rocket science, some of the aspects require a specialist’s opinion, if profitability is to be maintained.

Challenges ahead District cooling is here to stay, as it has benefits for users, providers and the society at large. Sure, there are challenges, but please name one aspect of life that is free of challenges.

Water definitely is a challenge for district cooling. At the time of starting off with water-cooled plants, the big question was, “Where are the resources to make up losses from cooling towers?”

As a result, at the time, even a 2,000 TR plant was done with an air-cooled system. Fortunately, today, we have technology in the market that will enable us to use seawater for cooling.

Another challenge for district cooling is how to do the piping network, particularly from a finance point of view. Piping is something that goes deep into the earth, and the return on investment comes after a long time.

I mean, we have several instances of buildings that have not been connected even after a decade. Reem Island has a capacity of 90,000 TR. The working capacity is 45,000 TR. The network is already ready for 90,000 TR, but the off-take had not started, even after four years. This is the same story elsewhere, be it Dubai Festival City or Yas Island.

A feasible solution would be one where the developer owns the chilled water network. The developer should construct the network along with the one for water, sewage, etc. I say it is feasible, from a mindset point of view, because in the case of a network for water and sewage, the developer builds for the whole capacity, though the entire capacity is not immediately used.

So what is stopping the developer, then? Well, they have their share of constraints in showing profitability.

They don’t want to invest unless they have a clear picture of profits.

It would be a better scenario if they invested in the piping network, though, because when it comes to financing an infrastructure project, banks do think in terms of 15 years of finance. For district cooling providers, it is not easy

to raise the funding, but in the case of a developer, the collateral for the land is already there.

Another challenge facing the district cooling industry has to do with a negative perception in the minds of end-users. The end-user is not getting the benefit of the efficiencies that district cooling schemes yield. From the point of view of end-users, the capacity charge is a stumbling block.

It is a financial charge for district cooling plants for 25 years. Now, if the capacity charge can be collected as an upfront payment, perhaps at the time when the end-user buys a residential unit, say, the burden will be less.

So what of tenants, then? They, too, feel strongly against paying the capacity charge. A possible solution would be to have them pay for electricity charges for the use of AHUs and FCUs. That way, the chilling cost alone could be added to their annual rent.

Yet another challenge for district cooling is the over capacity of district cooling plants. When developments were taking shape during the boom time, the only independent player was the district cooling provider; and in all the meetings, the provider was being forced to build the capacity within a limited period, with no incentives or off-take guarantees. This, in my view, was detrimental to the interests of the industry. Plant capacity should have been following demand load, instead, and not the construction of buildings.

If the demand load is 5,000 TR, and if your capacity is 4,000 TR, you are in a position to manage with that. We would have been far better lagging behind and modularising to meet a growth in demand.

We could have provided even temporary cooling, if required, rather than put a lot of money in the plant upfront. This should be the model that should be followed even when things improve.

There is another aspect – I won’t call it a challenge – I would like to address about district cooling, which has to do with existing buildings. I do believe the first ever attempt to provide district cooling for an existing building happened in 2000, at the Al Ain Civic Centre.

Kattner carried out an analysis for a whole project, but it could not be realised because the costs were too high, and so the building owner did not want to proceed.

From a technical perspective, existing buildings pose another deterrent. Existing buildings have low delta T; converting them to a high delta T scenario will consume a lot of money. Who will pay for that?

In my opinion, district cooling in

existing buildings cannot be realised in the near future, unless the cost of electricity increases according to the cost of producing that electricity and is not subsidised. If the cost of electricity becomes high, the cost of changing from an air-cooled system to a water-cooled system will be more effective.

Mentors in life My parents are my greatest mentors. My father has a unique habit of resolving serious issues by coming up with rustic aphorisms. It was typical of him to say, “Do not equate a donkey with a horse, even though both are equally important”, and “Stay clear of the front of powerful men and the back of a donkey”!

My intellectual leanings come from my mother. Her ability to adapt to challenging situations, learn a new thing every day, perseverance and patience have contributed to the development of my overall personality.

In the case of a network for water and sewage, the developer builds for the whole capacity, though the entire capacity is not immediately used.

My family I am married. I have been so for over 19 years, and have three princesses for daughters. The eldest is a student of medicine. The other two, born in the UAE, have an entirely different perspective on life. Once, we were driving past one of the buildings I was associated with, and I heard a heated argument in the rear seat between the little ones. Eventually, they stopped arguing and asked me to intervene to confirm how the building was constructed. One of them said the blocks were kept one on top of the other and, then, painted. The other’s contention was that the blocks had been painted before they were placed one on top of the other. I had a difficult time adjudicating!

They had picked up some of my dreadful (as stated by my wife) habits of reading books and carried them to an extreme.

My wife, in addition to being a successful teacher, loving and caring spouse and mother, is my perennial critic.

Constructive as they are, her criticisms motivate me to excel in my work.

ily vacation Paris, during a fam

My little princesses

Interests I enjoy reading all genres of fiction and non-fiction. In my view, reading a book is the most relaxing activity.

I also like soft music and do watch a lot of films. As mentioned earlier, I was a serious cricketer while at school; today, my love for the sport is undiminished. I do wish sometimes I could go to the gym and workout, but it remains an ambition; I’m unable to exercise as regularly as I read books!

July 2010

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events watch september 2010 1-3 September 2010 Marina Bay Sands, Singapore HVAC Asia 2010 HVAC Asia 2010, in its 8th staging, is an important international exhibition in South East Asia on Air-Conditioning, Heating & Ventilation, Air-Filtration & Purification Systems. The event will provide a marketplace for international manufacturers and suppliers of the HVAC industry to launch new products, reach out to buyers, appoint agents & distributors, build brand awareness and establish business networks in South East Asia’s economy.

Contact Jennifer Chiah Exhibitions Sales Manager T: +65 6517 3038 M: +65 9780 7791 E: jennifer.chiah@iirx.com.sg IIR Exhibitions (Singapore) 205 Henderson Road, #03-01 Henderson Industrial Park, Singapore 159549 T: +65 6319 2668 F: +65 6319 2669 E-mail: hvacasia@iirx.com.sg

october 2010 13-15 October 2010 Nuremberg, Germany Chillventa 2010 Contact NürnbergMesse GmbH Messezentrum D-90471 Nürnberg T: +49 9 11 86 06 81 10 F: +49 9 11 86 06 82 47

november 2010 8-9 November 2010, Doha, Qatar 5th International District Cooling Conference & Trade Show The International District Energy Association (IDEA) will be conducting the Conference and Trade Show under the theme, ‘District cooling: greener building, smarter grid’, which emphasises how district cooling infrastructure can improve the end-use energy efficiency in customer buildings and reduce the eco46

nomic and environmental strain on the regional power grid, in line with Qatar’s 2030 National Vision and Environmental Design programme, which seeks to harmonise economic growth, social development and environmental protection.

Qatar Cool is the Principal Host and sponsor of the event. A highlight for the host will be the inauguration of the world’s largest district cooling facility (the Pearl Qatar plant), on the evening of November 9.

The conference programme includes an industry leadership panel discussion; and a peer-topeer exchange summit, with primary focus on: • Infrastructure master planning, design and development • Plant operations and optimization strategies • Work force training and industry cross-training initiatives • Customer service and satisfaction A special focus of the event will be on global best practices – utility rate design and cost of service studies.

Contact: Tanya Kozel E: tanya.idea@districtenergy.org T: +1 410 518 6676 Web site: www.districtenergy.org

11-14 November 2010 SMX Convention Center, Manila, Philippines HVAC/R Philippines 2010 The 13th HVAC/R Philippines 2010 will focus on all the sectors related to heating, ventilating, airconditioning, refrigerating, pumps, valves & pipes, filtration and purification technology. The show will bring together major suppliers of HVAC, refrigeration and pumps & valves industries from all over the world. The expo will serve as the best forum for all the visitors and exhibitors to network face to face, and to build up fresh business partners as well as renovate existing associations. HVAC/R Philippines 2010 will be a magnificent platform for all the attendees, as it will enable them to discover and attain the information of most

CLIMATE CONTROL MIDDLE EAST

July 2010

up to date technologies and trends of the associated market.

The targeted visitors in the event include manufacturers, fabricators, importers, exporters, service providers, director of projects, department heads, buyers and related professionals.

The profile for exhibits includes air-conditioning, air compressors, air filtration & purification equipment, blowers, chillers, cleaning equipment, compressors, cooling towers, automation components, chemical processing equipment, circuit breakers, engines & motors, environment protection equipment, filtration systems, hydraulic & pneumatic equipment, production facilities, check valves and cold storage facilities.

The event is being organised by the Philippine Society of Ventilating, Air-Conditioning and Refrigerating Engineers.

22-25 November 2010 Dubai International Exhibition Centre, UAE The Big 5 International Building & Construction Show The Big 5 is widely regarded as an influential building and construction show in the Middle East. It has a dedicated HVCAR section that draws the HVACR fraternity from the region.

Contact Sarah Palmer Marketing Executive dmg world media Dubai Ltd PO Box 33817, Dubai, UAE T: +971 4 438 0355 F: +971 4 438 0356 E: SarahPalmer@dmgworldmedia. com

28-30 November 2010, Doha, Qatar 2nd Annual Middle East District Cooling Summit Fleming Gulf Conferences will be conducting the Summit under the theme, ‘Innovating energy efficiency in a dynamic region’.

Key topics include ‘Is solar district cooling viable?’, ‘Is cogeneration gaining favour?’ ‘Bank’s perspective on the challenges perceived in financing district cooling projects in Qatar’, ‘Why is district cooling

crucial to Qatar’s export revenues and its future ability for continuous growth?’, ‘Opportunities for district cooling in the Kingdom of Saudi Arabia’, ‘BOO/BOT model for district cooling’ and ‘TSE: challenges and opportunities’.

The Summit is expected to attract senior officials and key decision makers from district cooling companies, master developers, EMP/MEP contractors, design consultants, power and energy management companies, wastewater and desalination utility companies and regional regulatory officials, the organisers said.

According to the organisers, speakers include Abdulhamid Al Mansour, the CEO of Saudi Tabreed; R Seetharaman, the CEO of Doha Bank Group; George Berbari, the CEO of DC Pro Engineering, Mohamed Hamra-Krouha, Partner at Clifford Chance; Jaap Kalkman, the Head of Arcapita (MENASA region); Albert Haykal, the Vertical Market Leaders (district cooling), Trane; Per Jonasson, the CEO of Capital Cooling MENA and Henrik Enstrom, President of Termoekonomi.

Contact: Samir Ahmed Marketing Manager E: samir.ahmed@fleminggulf.com T: +91 988 63 54 321

Please contact event organisers directly to re-confirm dates and agenda To feature your event in these pages, call +971 4 3756830 or e-mail: surendar@ cpi-industry.com

5th International District Cooling Conference & Trade Show

C District ooling: Greene November 8-9, 2010 The Grand Hyatt Doha

n

r Build

ings, Smarter Grid

Doha, Qatar

Make plans now to attend IDEA’s Fifth International District Cooling Conference in

Doha, Qatar.

The conference theme, “District Cooling: Greener Buildings, Smarter Grid”, emphasizes how district cooling infrastructure can improve the end-use energy efficiency in customer buildings and reduce the economic and environmental strain on the regional power grid, in line with Qatar’s 2030 National Vision

The Grand Hyatt Doha

and Environmental Development programme that seeks to harmonize economic growth, social development and environmental protection.

Conference program highlights include:

IDEA proudly confirms Qatar

n n

Cool as Principal Host and Sponsor of the 5th International District Cooling Conference and we are pleased to jointly invite colleagues and guests from around the world to join us for the inauguration of the world’s largest district cooling facility in Doha, Qatar on Tuesday, November 9, 2010.

For over 101 years, IDEA has delivered high-quality, technical conferences focused exclusively on the unique business challenges and opportunities in the district energy industry. By connecting system owners, business partners and policy leaders with informed experience on industry best practices, conference attendees gain highly valuable industry insights and practical, actionable solutions. Since 1909, IDEA continues to inform, connect and advance the district energy industry.

Industry Leadership Panel Discussion Peer to Peer Exchange Summit with primary focus on: • Infrastructure Master Planning, Design and Development • Plant Operations and Optimization Strategies • Work Force Training and Industry Cross-Training Initiatives • Customer Service and Satisfaction

n

Special Focus on Global Best Practices – Utility Rate Design and Cost of Service Studies

n

Session on P3’s – Public/Private Partnerships in the GCC Region

n

Business Partner Exhibits, Networking Receptions and much more...

Visit www.districtenergy.org or call +1 508-366-9339 for more information on conference registration, program, exhibit and sponsor opportunities.