Newsletter Number 73
Faster fan and silencer selection is now possible thanks to the new version of the Fans by Fantech Product Selection Program. The new program was launched at ARBS 2012 and was very well received said Fantech’s Information Systems Manager Stuart Bryson who has been redeveloping the popular software. “The program has been refined and is faster, easier to use and ultimately much more powerful. Feedback at our ARBS stand showed customers are very pleased with the results and are looking forward to using it as part of their project designs.” When Fantech first launched the ‘Interactive Product Suite’ (as it was first known) in 1998, it was the first of its kind in Australia and New Zealand. “Up until that time engineers and consultants would have to manually search through catalogues or use text-based systems to select their fans and associated specifications,” Stuart said. “The program provided an easy method to select fixed and adjustable pitch fans within the visual environment of Windows.” Over the next 10 years, Silencer selection and an acoustic analysis module were added. Other functions such as real-time linking with the Fantech website and the ability to export fan schedules to Excel were also included. ad changed Stuart said computers had a lot since the program was first launched so Fantech wanted to make full use of the atest advances improvements and the latest -built the in technology. “We’ve re-built rface program with a new interface which takes advantage of faster reens computers and larger screens asier to to make it quicker and easier edule select, compare and schedule fans and silencers.” e Users can now see all the sy view w technical data in one easy call it at at and have the ability to recall e. They Th y any time from a schedule. can also search by any product
April 2012
code, export to Excel and PDF quickly, and save all 2D DWG, DXF and 3D Revit files for one project all at once. Energy efficiency calculations have been incorporated into every selection, and along with the other changes to the program, it will facilitate the design of energy efficient systems which can also provide capital cost savings.
easier “...it’stofaster, use and ultimately much more powerful.
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Another key advantage of the new program is the introduction of a “Basic” mode to make it easier for first time and less-technical users. This mode is ideal for architects, builders and draftsmen as it allows them to make quick selections of fans or silencers and get the detail they need in five simple steps. Stuart said the “Advanced” mode was designed to be used by engineers, contractors and consultants who required selections based on more specific criteria. “It is for those already familiar with the program and contains all of the criteria options previously available, plus a number of new powerful options - such as selecting at a low speed duty with the use of a variable speed drive. beli “We believe the ability to select fans and silence using a range of advanced criteria silencers and quickly review, collate and output those se selections will save time and help promote a an electronic flow of data,” Stuart said. The much anticipated Fans by Fantech Product Selection Program V.5.0 will be available in the coming weeks. Customers can register to receive a copy via the Fantech website at www.fantech.com.au, or to organise an in-office demonstration contact their local Fantech branch or agent.
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Technically Speaking with Simon Pollard
A simple guide to selecting fan motors for hazardous locations
Hazard Classification
What sort of fan motor do I need for my spray painting booth?
Class I - indicates that it is a hazardous gas or vapour. Class II - indicates that the hazardous material is dust or fine fibre.
This type of question often confronts our sales engineers.
Gas and Vapour Zones (for Class I)
While this appears to be a straightforward request, a spray booth could be classified as a hazardous area because:
Zone 0 - indicates that the flammable substance may be present during normal operation of the equipment. Zone 1 - indicates that the flammable substance may be present in the vicinity of the equipment for short periods of time. Zone 2 - indicates that the flammable material will not be present during the normal operation of the equipment and if it does, it will exist for a short period of time only.
• An explosive atmosphere is (or is likely) to be present and,
• It may require special precautions for the construction, installation and use of potential ignition sources (which would be a fan in this example).
As it can be classified as a hazardous area, we require specific information to make the correct selection.
Gas Group
Ref: AS/NZS 60079.0:2012
Group I - Mining (methane) Group II - Surface industries Group III - Dusts and fibres
An explosive atmosphere can contain liquid, gas or dust. Flammable liquids are easily identified as such by warning labels on the product; however some hazardous applications are not as obvious. A sewerage plant for example contains gases that could be explosive, while a wheat silo or flour mill can contain dusts that are latent, but highly explosive. The above two applications would require different types of hazardous motors and selecting the correct one is imperative as the wrong motor could have disastrous results. It is therefore critical that accurate information is supplied so that the correct fan/motor can be selected. An example of the required information for a gas/vapour hazard is shown below. Section A or B need to be answered MOTOR TYPE?
Ex e
Ex d
Ex n
YES
NO
B
CLAS CLA SS I
CLASS II
GAS AND VAPOUR U ZONE E
ZONE ZON E0
ZON O E1
WHICH GAS GR ROUP OU ?
GROUP I
GROU GRO UP II
IF GAS S OR VA VAPO POUR GAS PO GROUP GRO UP II, IS IT T?
IIA
IIB B
IS THE THE FA AN R REQU EQUIRE IRED D TO TO BE SPE SPEED ED CON O TRO TROLLE LLED? D?
YES
NO
If a fan for a hazardous area is required, we need to know the motor type required - Ex n, Ex e or Ex d? We also need to know if Gas Group IIC is present so we can be sure the appropriate cable gland is fitted to the motor. Providing this information will ensure the correct motor is selected.
IIA - eg. Propane IIB - eg. Ethylene IIC - eg. Hydrogen (The above gases listed are typical, with IIC being the most severe) Motor type (CMG)
Ex n
Ex e
Ex d
Class
I
I
I
Zone
2
1
1
Gas Groups Speed Controllable?
IIA, IIB, IIC
IIA, IIB, IIC
IIA, IIB
No
No
Yes
* Please note that these are only examples of limitations and Fantech can assist in determining if the motor will comply with the above information. Any hazardous motor should have a test report available which will detail the limitations of use.
IF NO MOTOR TYP TYPE E IS I SPEC PECIFI IFIE ED, THE E FOLL FOL OWING N QUESTIONS MUST BE ANSWER WERED ED HAZARD CLASSIFICAT ATION N
Gas and Vapour Gas Group (for Group II)
Example of typical hazardous limitations of motors handling gases*
A IS IT GAS GROUP IIC?
When gas is the explosive atmosphere w within ithi it hin hi na hazardous area, the following information is required:
ZONE 2
IIC
An example of this is as follows. If we had a Class I, Zone 1 application with Gas Group IIB, and the motor needed to be speed controlled, we would need to select an Ex d motor from the above CMG range. Fantech has a very rigorous procedure in place to ensure hazardous location fans are built to the requirements of the Australian Standards, and to the customer’s specification. Fantech F has links with the Australasian Institute of Dangerous Goods Consultants. Institute members are qualified to assess the correct fan for hazardous locations and can help customers to ensure Fantech has the right information when placing an order.
Motors handling dusts or fine fibres are not
covered in this article.
Active Air celebrate 40 year milestone A Active Air may be celebrating 40 years in the HVAC in industry, but the company began more than 100 years ago as a sheet metal business owned by VA Sweeny. T The sheet metal business was passed down through the generations and in 1971 Jim Sweeny commenced work with his father after 8 years in the insurance industry. The following year Jim started Active Air, a complimentary mechanical services business, and the two companies ran in parallel until Jim’s father retired in 1986.
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It was a great opportunity and I began a rental business...
The family tradition has continued and today Active Air is run by three directors; Shane Hardey and Jim’s sons Brad and John. Shane manages the mechanical services division and has been with the company for over 35 years. Brad runs the commercial air conditioning, chiller and generator division from the Revesby branch and John manages the administration and portable air conditioning division from the company head office in Waterloo.
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In 1976 Jim became a distributer for a brand of portable air conditioning units and while attending a conference in
Los Angeles the same year, had lunch with a local contractor who suggested Jim could achieve greater success by renting these machines rather than selling them. “It was a great opportunity and I began a rental business on my return to Sydney,” Jim said. “Active Air now has a large fleet of air conditioners, chillers and heaters in every state of Australia and can provide solutions to any emergency or industrial requirement including large scale events and mining applications.” “Large axial fans from Fantech are hired to ventilate underground mines, airline hangars and television sets such as Masterchef and Top Gear Live,” he said. Six years ago Active Power Management, a subsidiary of Active Air began. “We needed generators to power the large air conditioning equipment we were hiring to events,” Brad said, “so it was a natural progression that we provide both; tailored solutions for temperature control and power management requirements.” Jim is proud of the company he has left behind, and says that one of the primary reasons for their success is the prompt, efficient service provided by a team of loyal and dedicated staff, many of whom have been with the company for over 10 years. Fantech congratulate Active Air on their 40 year milestone.
Bringing the John Oxley back to life
The John Oxley is one step closer to being in full operational condition thanks to a little help from Fantech. This 1927 coastal steamship is Australia’s only operating example of the most common and significant form of early 20th Century coastal travel. It is currently being restored by Sydney Heritage Fleet. Michael York is one of 20 plus volunteers who meet three times a week to work on the vessel. “It’s a little bit like a workshop for retired men where we learn from one another,” he said. “For example experienced boilermakers and engineers have taught the rest of us to hot rivet, a specialist boat building skill needed to plate the hull and decks in metal. We have almost finished replating the whole ship, and will move onto replacing the decking plates next.” Built by Scottish shipbuilders for Queensland Harbours and Rivers Board, the John Oxley is 51 metres long, with a gross weight of 540 tonnes and a top speed of 14 knots. It was used as a pilot vessel in Moreton Bay and as a buoy and lighthouse tender along the Queensland coast. During WWII it was
requisitioned by the Royal Australian Navy as an examination vessel and returned to Queensland Harbours in 1946 where it was in service until 1968. Michael said ships like the John Oxley were once as common as sailing ships, and were the only way of moving cargo and passengers up and down the coast before road or rail transport existed. “Sadly they are all gone now and this is the last coastal steamship left in Australian waters.” It was donated to the Sydney Maritime Museum in 1970 where Sydney Heritage Fleet operated it a number of times. However there was some concern over the hull plating and she was laid up while waiting for restoration. “Restoration began in earnest in 1997 and may take two decades or more to complete. Fantech supplied three Short Case axial fans for the engine room. We are grateful to them and other donors for their role in bringing the John Oxley back to life,” Michael said. Further donations can be made on the Sydney Heritage Fleet website www.shf.org.au or by calling (02) 9298 3888.
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... this is the last coastal steamship left in Australian waters.
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Product News with Kerry Dumicich
Silent
series doubles in size Fantech has added two new models to the low noise, high efficiency TD Silent Series of mixed-flow fans. The revolutionary design of the TD Silent 250mm and 315mm models incorporate a number of new technologies that make them very quiet. They are high performance fans that are quieter than similar products on the market and represent a real advance in fan and acoustic technology. This breakthrough in noise reduction is due to a technically advanced design and internal construction. Sound waves produced inside the fan are captured by a layer of sound-absorbent internal membrane, resulting in an efficient low profile fan that operates very quietly. The 315mm Silent is extremely quiet with a sound pressure of 44dB(A) at low speed and ... an efficient low 50dB(A) at high speed. profile fan that Likewise, the 250mm is also very quiet at 42dB(A) operates very at low speed and 47dB(A) quietly. when running at high speed.
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The smaller 150mm and 200mm models produce even less noise, making the TD Silent Series perfect for hospitals, hotels, libraries and offices where the constant sound of the ventilation system could distract the occupants.
further reduce noise. The engineers have created a distinctive fan series that is compact and ideal for installations in false ceilings or apartments where space is often restricted. The larger fan body of the 250mm and 315mm models can be easily removed from the ducting for cleaning and maintenance. The 250mm and 315mm models are constructed from durable sheet steel to provide strength and help minimise the fan’s dimensions. These models are finished in a protective epoxy polyester paint and feature an external terminal box which is rated at IP55. The other features of the TD Silent include an integral mounting foot that makes installations more simple, a 240V plug and lead, a convenient 2-speed motor and a high performance mixed-flow impeller. TD Silent design engineers have done an excellent job and achieved an efficient, yet remarkably quiet series of fans.
TD Silent design engineers have looked at all sources of noise and provided clever solutions. In the two new models a specially designed aerodynamic inlet improves air flow performance and further reduces noise. In the smaller models mounting straps that grip onto a ribbed rubber gasket on the fan body and rubber gaskets on the inlet and outlet spigots
Internal Construction
Fantech’s Engineers Training Program “ goes global Fantech’s Engineers Fan Training Program has been stepped up another gear because of its introduction into South East Asia. The training program was initially developed in Melbourne to educate young consulting engineers about fan types and their applications, noise management and the do’s and don’ts of ventilation design. Fantech’s Engineering Manager Kerry Dumicich said the training course aimed to improve the skill level of participants and enable them to make better decisions when designing and specifying a ventilation system. It also provided a great opportunity for engineers to network and meet other people in the industry. Since its inception, the Australian program has been refined, updated and squeezed into a one day intensive training course. Some of the topics include: • Fan/impeller types and characteristics • Fan selection and applications • BCA Energy efficiency, AS1668 Part 1 TRAINING PROGRAM and bushfire zone fans AS3959 •Selection of acoustic products and noise management ENGINEERS
FAN
“Feedback has shown that participants get a lot of value from the one day training course and as such demand has been strong since its launch in 2008,” Kerry said. “We have received some very positive feedback from the industry, and participants taking part in the program may also be eligible to claim CPD points for future studies.” In 2011 more than 280 people attended the program at 8 locations across Australia, including Newcastle, Canberra and Townsville. This year the course will also be delivered into Fantech’s South East Asian markets, and the subcontinent expected soon. Kerry said the Asia region was a very important market and a huge challenge. He believes the training program will be of real benefit as engineers in the region have a real thirst for knowledge. “Education is key to any emerging market, and we will be working hard to bring engineers and contractors up to speed, providing basic information on air movement and noise management as well as the latest ventilation systems.”
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From left to right; Kerry Dumicich, Peter Cotterell, Paul de Bruin, Daniel Tan and Frank Cosentino
Fantech wins at ARBS The HVAC industry’s Product Excellence and Young Achiever prizes have been awarded to Fantech, making ARBS 2012 their most successful yet.
contents to its attendees all over Australia and New Zealand.
Fantech’s JetVent EC range won the Product Excellence category and its designer, Fantech Market Development Engineer, Daniel Tan, was the Young Achiever for 2012.
He has also played an ... the award important part in the development and testing of was very special the Fantech Product Selection and recognition of a Program. “The selection program lot of hard work. has been a very rewarding project as feedback so far from clients and staff has been very positive,” Daniel said.
Daniel was largely responsible for the introduction and development of the JetVent impulse ventilation system for car parks to Australia as a cost effective alternative to traditional ducted systems. He also designed the JetVent EC Series fans which feature efficient EC motor technology with integrated speed control and ComLink digital communication. This has simplified the system, reduced noise levels and wiring complexity, while dramatically improving its energy efficiency. “We knew JetVent EC was special when we completed its performance testing, and to have that validated by the industry is a great feeling and a huge confirmation of Fantech’s commitment to innovation, product development and continuous improvement,” Daniel said. “We were up against some very good products, and to win the award was very special and recognition of a lot of hard work.” Aside from his work with JetVent, Daniel has designed and developed Australia’s first silencer test facility to ISO7235:2003, which has been used extensively with the Fantech range of rectangular attenuators. He also strives to improve and educate the industry through the Fantech Engineers Training Program which he helped create and continues to play a vital role in by delivering its valuable
Young Young Yo g Achiever
Product Excellence
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The ARBS Industry Awards coincide with the ARBS Exhibition, which is a great opportunity to showcase new products, a chance to network with colleagues and see cutting edge technologies. The Fantech stand focused on the new Product Selection software and a range of sophisticated products that highlighted Fantech’s technical expertise and its ability ns. to provide complete solutions. ded Some of the products included the TD Silent series of high performance in-line fans; e Rickard Variable Air Volume electronic ceiling diffusers; the low profile and lightweight duct system nt FlatPack; the highly efficient de-stratification ZOO fan and the award winning JetVent EC car park fan.
ZOO fan
Fantech NZ moves to bigger facilities Fantech New Zealand’s Auckland team has moved to a larger purpose-built facility in Albany to improve its customer service. NZ Manager Luc Jorieux said the extra space in the 1200m² warehouse meant they could now increase their assembly capability and hold a larger range of stock.
“The new facilities allow our customers to take delivery of the products faster so they can complete their jobs more efficiently,” he said. “We are also able to offer an extended range of products and accessories such as ducting, which has allowed us to provide a ‘one-stop shop’ to our customers.” The facility is well-situated to the north of the city close to motorways. Luc said ample car park spaces meant customers could get in and out of the premises quickly and easily so they can get back to their work. A large single-storey open plan office allows staff to interact, work together as an efficient team, and share information and knowledge. “This professional environment ensures Fantech customers get quality and prompt service every time they walk in the door or pick up the phone,” he said. The new facility is located at 7 Lovell Court, Albany.
The Kings Cross Tunnel The Kings Cross Tunnel is connecting William Street and New South Head Road in Kings Cross. UGL Infrastructure Project Manager Damien O’Dea said Road Roads and Maritime Services (RMS) had provided the ventil ventilation concept design for the 320 metre long dual cut and cover construction in the southern area of Kings Cross near the w well known ‘Coca-Cola’ sign. UGL was the head contractor to RM RMS for detailing the design, procurement, installation and in integration of the RMS ventilation design for the Kings Cross tunnel. “The tunnel was originally constructed in 1972 to divert traffic from the Darlinghurst Road intersection. It was ventilated with thirtee thirteen 17kW tunnel jet fans, six in the two eastbound lanes, while seven tunnel jet fans serviced the three westbound lanes lanes,” he said. The ttunnel ventilation system is part of the fire and life safety syste system and is compartmentalised east and west bound. In no normal operations the fan equipment serving each direction is automatically called into service as carbon monoxide threshold levels are exceeded, ramping up as these levels increase. However if tunnel sensors detect a fire, the fan system serves a dual purpose of smoke management. The RMS project involved upgrading the ventilation system with new fans. The eastbound fan equipment was replaced
with larger and more powerful tunnel jet fans (37kW); however space constraints in the westbound carriageway did not allow increasing equipment sizing. Instead, RMS decided to remove the aged westbound fans and go to a Saccardo nozzle system which was installed in the void space below the Ward Avenue ramp. The Saccardo nozzle system differs from a traditional multiple jet fan installation by having a single discharge point served by multiple supply fans, in this case four 55kW axial fans. Damien said UGL had designed and installed a similar system for Perth’s underground rail tunnel. “We undertook the final design detailing, and subcontracted the supply of the fan equipment directly to Witt & Sohn in Germany who in turn utilised their Australian representative Fantech to assist with manufacturers’ commissioning of the fan equipment,” he said. “Creating a plant room in a tunnel that serves a busy part of the city that never sleeps was a major challenge. But good co-ordination and planning with both the client and our subcontractors ensured the tunnel’s continuing use and availability during daylight and peak demand periods.” This design, supply, installation and commissioning project took 16 months and was completed in April 2012.
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... if tunnel sensors detect a fire, the fan system serves a dual purpose...
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WOULD YOU LIKE MORE INFORMATION? Please send me a “Keen to be Green” fan installation Poster. Please send me a copy of the Fans by Fantech Product Selection CD. Please send me a copy of the TD Silent range brochure Please send me a copy of the FlatPack range brochure
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Fantech Contacts
Please send me a “Keen to be Green” fan installation Mouse Mat.
Australia Adelaide (08) 8294 0530 Albury (02) 6025 1866 Brisbane (07) 3299 9888 Canberra (02) 6280 5511 Coffs Harbour (02) 6652 9435 Darwin (08) 8947 0447 Launceston (03) 6344 6888 Melbourne H.O. (03) 9554 7845 Melbourne CBD (03) 9696 3044 Geelong (03) 5229 0188 Newcastle (02) 4961 6088 Perth (08) 9209 4999 Sydney (02) 8811 0400 Sydney CBD (02) 9698 8130 Sydney South (02) 9153 6005 Townsville (07) 4775 5222 Wollongong (02) 4226 5133 New Zealand Auckland H.O. Christchurch Wellington
(09) 444 6266 (03) 379 8622 (04) 566 0532
Asia For agents in the Asian region call (603) 7846 0340 or visit www.eltafantechasia.com
Visit our website at www.fantech.com.au