Newsletter Number 82
December 2015
Taking the extra step to bring Smith Street to life A new development at 132-172 Smith Street Collingwood, an inner suburb of Melbourne, is restoring the character of the old neighbourhood. Known as Smith&Co, the multipurpose site contains a mix of 238 apartments spread over two buildings, gardens and a commercial area containing office space, cafes and retail outlets. This is not just another inner city apartment block; JAM Architects has drawn on the history of the site to create a vibrant space for residents and the wider community. The iconic Coles store that dominated Smith street for so long has now gone, but the supermarket chain has returned with a modern 3,561sqm store on the ground level of the building and is complemented by numerous shops and cafes with street frontage.
pollutant and smoke detection sensors and adjusts the speed of the fan to match the level of carbon monoxide or nitrous oxide in the car park,” he said.
Since Jet fans are relatively new to Australia they have not been listed in AS/NZS1668.1:1998. As a result they are outside of the ‘deemed-to-satisfy’ provisions of the Building Code of Australia from a fire and smoke control perspective. “In order to obtain confirmation that JetVent fans with integrated smoke detectors comply with the BCA as an alternative solution, this project was submitted to the Building Appeals Board,” Kerry said.
As was practiced in the past, apartment residents are encouraged to shop from local suppliers, or pick what they need from the communal organic herb and vegetable garden on the site’s northern boundary. A large entertaining deck in the European garden celebrates the influence of Italian and Greek immigrants to the area, while the eucalypts and shade structures of the indigenous garden provide a place to relax.
Fantech worked closely with Hacer and Lehr Consultants International to prepare a case for the Building Appeals Board. “A Computational Fluid Dynamics (CFD) model of the car park showing the location of the fans, sprinkler head temperatures, and movement of air and smoke in various scenarios formed part of the evidence to validate the design,” he said.
Fantech supplied fans for the retail/speciality stores, acoustic louvres and apartment fans for the project. The installing contractor Rival Air’s Director Andrew Stewart said 21 Fantech JetVent fans for the unique four-entry car park with 432 spaces were also supplied. JetVent fans operate on well proven longitudinal tunnel ventilation principles and have been used in numerous car park installations in Australia where they effectively direct air flow throughout the car park to the exhaust fan.
The Building Appeals Board determined that the alternative solution for Fantech JetVent EC fans in Smith&Co’s car park complied with the relevant performance clauses of the BCA. “This was the landmark project for jet fans showing how to achieve compliance with the BCA,” Andrew said.
Fantech Engineering Manager, Kerry Dumicich said the EC range of JetVent fans had been specified in the design of Smith&Co because they were quieter, easier to install and more economical to run. “Each JetVent fan in the EC series can have up to two pollutant sensors and an integrated smoke detection kit that is powered by the actual fan. Real time information is digitally transmitted between the fan units and the EcoVent Controller using ComLink, JetVent’s digital communication system. In automatic mode, the controller responds to signals from the
‘Smith&Co’ image courtesy of Banco Group
The first stage of the project opened in September.
‘Smith&Co - The Langridge’ image courtesy of Banco Group
Technically Speaking with Kerry Dumicich
VGVAV diffusers
Pressure on design yields efficiencies (Part One) Variable Geometry Variable Air Volume (VGVAV) diffusers have been used for more than 40 years to effectively manage the air distribution system in a building. The functionality of early diffusers was limited in their capabilities, but in the past 10 years VGVAV diffusers have been transformed by the addition of advanced, modern electronics to help optimise indoor comfort. When designed into a HVAC system correctly, electronic VGVAV diffusers offer the building occupant: • Excellent energy efficiency as they operate from low pressure duct work where smaller variable speed Fan Coil Units can be selected and therefore running costs significantly lowered; • Individual thermal comfort control as the VGVAV diffuser can manage individual spaces within a building; and
Pressure Dependent System - VGVAV Diffuser design
Rather than controlling a particular zone in a building, electronic VGVAV diffusers are networked together and can manage thermal comfort down to the individual room level. These diffusers are perfectly suited to low pressure systems and hence bring key advantages to the HVAC market. Advantages • Lower fan power is required, significantly reducing energy consumption. • Commonly used in Green Building and LEED - GOLD rated buildings.
• Flexible control through remote monitoring and building fine tuning.
• Lower fan noise levels, less attenuation and lower initial capital cost.
This article examines the changes in VGVAV diffusers over the years and compares a pressure independent air distribution system to a pressure dependent air distribution system design.
• Flexibility, each outlet can be individually controlled so office layout changes are easy.
Pressure Independent System – VAV Box design
VAV Boxes and constant grilles became popular in the 1970s as an economical way to manage the air distribution system in a building. These designs are used to control large areas or zones, but are limited in their ability to manage individual thermal requirements of a building. Advantages • The relatively high duct pressures and velocities allow the duct size and initial cost to be reduced. • Cost savings are realised when a large number of outlets are used. • The system is tolerant of inadequacies in duct design and installation because it is not dependent on accurate control of duct pressure. Disadvantages • A VAV Box can only control zones, hence individual room comfort is compromised. • Excessive fan power is required to maintain the high pressure system. • Associated with excessive fan power is a higher noise level which often needs attenuation and therefore added cost. • High risk of cold air dumping and hot air stratification. • Inflexible as room layout is not easily changed. • Limited controllability.
• Because the duct static pressure is controlled and kept constant, constant volume and variable volume diffusers can be operated on the same duct system. • No risk of cold air dumping or hot air stratification, because of the variable geometry nature of the outlet. • More cost effective where each outlet can be individually controlled. Constant grilles can also be used in open plan areas. • Every space in a building can have its room temperature, supply air temperature, mode of operation, occupancy, pressure and air flow monitored and managed from the Building Management System. The system is typically managed from a remote central computer, making building tuning convenient and easy. Disadvantages • Duct size needs to be larger to compensate for air velocities, although the system can manage branch pressure drops up to 70Pa. • For optimum performance, it is important a VGVAV system is considered early in the building design stage. The next issue of Tech Talk will take a step further and talk about good duct design and commonly used duct designs V diffusers. of equal friction and static regain with VGVAV n on VGVAV diffusers please refer For further information to the Fantech website www.fantech.com.au under Diffusion.
A life time of service Brad Ackehurst
Fantech VIC - Operations Director
Brad has had an interesting career that began as a first year sheet metal apprentice and included stints as production assistant operations, purchasing officer, production manager and national operations manager. “We work for an exciting company that is looking to grow through involvement in new projects and developments,” he said. “I enjoy working within a positive team of people who are focused on providing high quality products.”
Peter Keys Fantech VIC - Storeman
The variety of working as a storeman has kept Peter at Fantech for 20 years. “We might be picking orders for dispatch, making space for inward goods, or driving forklifts, there’s always something different going on each day,” he said. “Most of the people here are friends and over the years become part of your life.” At home Peter likes to work in the garden and enjoys motor racing.
Kerry Dumicich Fantech VIC - Engineering Manager
Kerry started at Fantech while studying engineering and hasn’t stopped learning.”Even though I’ve been here 20 years, there’s always something new to learn, different problems to solve and challenges to overcome,” he said. “We have a great team of people who work well together making it a fantastic place to work.” In his spare time Kerry plays electric guitar in a church band and loves riding his motorbike through the Dandenongs.
Malcolm Kitchingman
Burra Sheet Metal - Joint Operations Manager
A driver with South Gippsland Air Conditioning, Mal heard the manufacturing arm, Burra Sheet Metal, was for sale and submitted a bid. He and good mate Fred Clark ran the business from 2002 to 2010 before selling to Fantech. “I’ve always enjoyed work and have a good relationship with the staff,” he said. Away from the factory Mal enjoys spending time with family, horse racing and camping.
Raymond Werrett Fantech NT - Sales Engineer
A chance meeting in a pub led to Ray’s employment as an assembler in Fantech’s Mulgrave factory 25 years ago. From there he progressed through local sales and export sales engineer positions, moving to Darwin in 2008 when the new office opened. “I like to look after people and enjoy dealing with customers, and the challenges that go with that,” he said. In his spare time Ray and wife Amy fish, hoping to catch a marlin.
Paul Menara Fantech VIC - National Credit Manager
The diversity of being a credit manager is what Paul enjoys most about his job. “It’s not purely credit management and includes accounting, systems and most importantly customer contact,” he said. “It is challenging to provide credit solutions to all customers, but it is also very satisfying when you get it right.” Away from the office Paul enjoys time with his family and friends and his sporting pursuits of tennis, cycling, running and walking.
Lyle Shoesmith Air Design QLD - Assembler/Storeperson
Lyle first started with Air Design 25 years ago when there were only three staff in the factory. He has been the primary fan assembler for many years, but has also assisted in the assembly of air handling units and spends at least one day a week picking and packing orders in the warehouse. On most weekends, Lyle can be found scuba diving in the Byron Bay area with the local scuba club.
Scott King Fantech SA - State Manager SA/NT
Scott started at Fantech as State Manager for South Australia and later Northern Territory. “I enjoy helping people and working for Fantech, it’s a great company with great products,” he said. “I’ve been in this industry for 41 years, and it still challenges me.”
John Ellul Fantech VIC - Ventilation Specialist Region Supervisor John Gilmour
Fantech New Zealand - Senior Sales Engineer
John started as an Internal Sales Engineer in Christchurch. In 2006 he moved to the Wellington office where he is currently Senior Sales Engineer handling mostly technical sales. He enjoys getting involved in unusual projects and meeting people from a variety of industries. Outside work he enjoys relaxing with friends and family.
Troy Kitchingman
Burra Sheet Metal - Sheet metal Supervisor
Bored with being a turret punch operator Troy asked to be moved to assembly where his workmanship earned him a sheet metal apprenticeship and then Apprentice of the year. “I enjoy the challenge of a short lead time and getting work finished on time,” he said.
Glenn Morgan
Fantech VIC - Fantech Trade National Sales Manager
Glenn continues to enjoy his national role looking after the reseller market. “This is an exciting time for me because we’re re-energising what was Fantech Plus into Fantech Trade, introducing fresh branding and fantastic new products,” he said. This continual goal of improving customer service is just one of the reasons Glenn enjoys working for Fantech.
Peter Cotterell
Fantech VIC - Business Development Manager
Peter continues to enjoy the many challenges the industry presents. “The company and its employees have evolved greatly these past 15 years as we have diversified into new products, solutions and services to meet the ever growing industry demands on the business,” he said. “My role within the business is unique and I hope to be here for many years to come.”
A qualified electrician, John joined Fantech as a sales representative, progressing through senior roles to regional supervisor. “My specialty is apartments and I love working for the team,” he said. On the weekends he likes motor bike riding, helping fellow electricians and spending time with family.
Peter Smith Fantech SA - Sales Engineer
In 1980 Peter began at Fantech as a sales engineer in the Melbourne office, moving to South Australia in 1987 to take up the position of state sales manager. After dedicating 25 years to the company he took a break and travelled overseas. Upon his return Peter recommenced work with Fantech where he finds the problem solving aspect very satisfying. “We get all sorts of enquiries, but the unusual projects requiring specialist fan selections are the most enjoyable,” he said.
Hau Ngo Fantech VIC - Assembler
The challenge of assembling a lot of different components into a finished product keeps Hau on his toes. “I like my job because it’s never boring and there are a lot of friendly technicians here,” he said. At home Hau enjoys bonsai and river fishing.
Stuart Austin Fantech NSW - External Sales Representative Looking after clients is very rewarding for Stuart. “Fantech has systems in place and a first class product that makes my job much easier,” he said. “I enjoy working with the people at Fantech NSW and the relationships I have with my clients.” At home a four-year old son (and another due in May) keeps him busy.
Warwick Armstrong Air Design QLD - Operations Manager
After spending most of his 10 years in operations, Warwick’s focus has recently shifted to a QA role and customer liaison. “My current role is quite diverse with electrical and mechanical tasks and customer interaction making days busy, but interesting,” he said. After hours Warwick and wife Paula teach a social form of Ballroom dance.
George Atu Fantech VIC - Assembler
George enjoys the friendly atmosphere of the factory area where he has been an assembler for the past 15 years. He describes Fantech as a ‘good place to work’ and takes pride in what he produces and being able to ‘get on with it’.”I used to play in a band in Fiji and at home enjoy playing my guitars and organ,” he said.
From left to right: George Atu, Peter Keys, Glenn Morgan, Peter Cotterell, Hau Ngo, Kerry Dumicich, John Ellul and Paul Menara
Aquanation leads the way with a wave of new technology It’s been over three years since the Ringwood Aquatic Centre closed, but its replacement has been well worth the wait for Maroondah residents in outer Melbourne. Aquanation, a state-of-the-art aquatic and leisure centre opened to the public on 17 August, providing a refreshing delight for all.
The $46.5million project began in August 2011 when architectural firm Peddle Thorp was contracted to design the new centre. In addition to meeting the needs of residents for the next 50 years, the design brief demanded a complete environmental management philosophy. Energy efficiency and water conservation were at the forefront of this, with maximum use of natural light and ventilation also crucial to the design. Construction commenced in July 2013. The Australian Government contributed $10 million through the Regional Development Australia Fund and a further $3 million came from the Victorian Government’s Community Facility Funding Program. ConnectEast and the Ringwood East and Heathmont Community Bank also invested in the project and will be ongoing corporate partners. Fantech External Sales Engineer Chris De Silva worked with Brenair Mechanical Services on the project. Over 60 exhaust, supply and return air fans and six attenuators were supplied for the centre as well as pedestal fans for use in the gym. Chris said a 66.5 metre 10-lane pool and 10 metre diving tower, both built to FINA standards, were the heart of the complex. “But what makes this pool so amazing is the twin boom system which divides the pool and moves to create a flexible
Fans by Fantech
Product Selection Program with Stuart Bryson
Hints and Tips
Selecting a fan with a matching silencer
When selecting an in-line ducted fan, you can choose to auto-select matching silencers and immediately view the resultant sound power level. When in the Select Fan > Advanced tab, scroll down to the Silencers panel where there are silencer options for the inlet and outlet side. You can select various combinations for comparison. For example, on the Inlet side, if you choose None and Circular 1D Open, the program will select fans with no matching silencers and fans which match a circular 1-diameter long open silencer. You can select up to 6 different inlet + outlet silencer combinations. The Specification window will show the sound levels with the silencer(s) factored in. You will also be prompted to add any matching silencers to the schedule when adding the fan. Version 5.3 of the Selection Program can be downloaded from our website. Remember to use the auto-updater to make sure you’ve got all the latest features.
water space for the various activities scheduled.” Overlooking the diving pool on the Mezzanine level is Victoria’s first dry diving training room. Chris said the Ringwood Diving Club had produced many champions and this proud record would continue with the controlled environment of the training room helping divers perfect their technique. Aquanation has a range of aquatic features including: a dedicated learn to swim pool, a therapeutic warm water pool and a free-form leisure pool with beach area and two large waterslides. There is also a spa, steam and sauna room, a large gym with personal training, aerobic and cycle rooms, child care facilities and a café.
Product integrity key to accurate quoting Now, more than ever, it is important for a successful business to partner with suppliers they can rely on and trust.
Fantech SA/NT manager Scott King said not all suppliers offer the same products and levels of service, and often cut corners to vie for business. Quotes from these companies may appear to be cheaper, but on closer inspection could become more costly in the long term.
“ Customers can ”
“At Fantech we pride ourselves on trust the quotes our reputation for quality and stand by our products,” he said. “All Fantech they receive... products are tested in our purpose-built facilities using international testing standards. The data generated ensures our products deliver the required air flow and acoustic performance.” Mr King said Fantech was the only HVAC fan company in Australia with facilities that enable accurate technical data to be compiled. Access to this comprehensive database of performance information allows quotes to be created by our experienced staff accurately, relatively quickly and with a high degree of confidence, he said. “Customers can trust the quotes they receive are confidential, accurate and meet specification. Furthermore, product details, including performance data, technical drawings and dimensions are listed in a way the customer knows exactly what they are getting,” he said.
Product News with Troy deVries
Taking control of apartment ventilation With the growth of apartment living across our major cities, ventilation in these living spaces continues to evolve. Historically the bathroom fan has been controlled by the light switch, operating while the light is on. However modern city dwellers have busy lives and don’t have time to wait for the steam to be exhausted by the fan before turning it off. The remaining moisture stays in the bathroom and can affect the look and life expectancy of the bathroom fittings. This moisture can also lead to mould growth and potential health risks to the occupiers of the home.
a run-on time of 2-10 minutes. Another model which has a 3-24 minute run-on time is usually mounted within equipment or enclosures. On some projects it may be possible to install a single fan to ventilate three rooms - the en-suite, bathroom and laundry. The VZM0-28TS plug-in run-on timer allows up to three switch inputs per fan Run-on timer and has an adjustable VZ2-10TS Fan 240V Supply run-on time from 0-30 min and a start delay of 0-5 min.
The use of a fan with an in-built run-on timer or a separate run-on timer is not a new concept, but is becoming a popular solution to combat these issues. The run-on timer allows the fan to keep working for a pre-determined time after the light switch has been turned off. When used in bathrooms, toilets and laundries, the run-on timer can result in more effective ventilation of lingering steam and odours.
Incorporating Power Switch Sw Switc h Sensing Controls into Run-on timer wiring diagram an apartment’s ventilation system can also help to ensure e adequate ventilation. The VZ-ISNSE is a 240V AC power sense switch that detects the current of a clothes dryer and turns the laundry fan on and off accordingly. It is particularly suitable for student accommodation and rental properties where landlords need to maintain their properties in good condition.
“
Fantech offers a complete range ...more effective of fans with in-built run-on timers ventilation of including TD Silent and ProVent in-line lingering steam fans and Silent Design wall mounted and odours fans. Fantech also has an extensive range of add-on run-on timers that provide a number of options and various benefits.
”
Fans with an in-built run-on timer are simple to install and adjust settings, while plug in add-on options are ideal for new installations as well as retro-fitting. The VZ6-4PL add-on timer plugs into the power outlet using its 4-pin plug. Fans are simply plugged into it and have a fixed run-on time of 6 minutes. Add-on run-on timers such as the VZ2-10TS are wired directly to the main supply, include a power socket for the fan and feature
Air Design builds on its reputation for quality and performance
In a quest to continue providing excellent customer service, Air Design has completely redeveloped their website. Kevin Sullivan, Air Design’s General Manager said: “We wanted the website to be easy for our customers to navigate and find the information they are searching for,” he said. “To achieve this, the website has been redesigned and expanded to provide more in-depth information which allows customers to view up-to-date technical data and drawings, therefore creating a valuable product selection tool for customers.”
By taking control of ventilation in apartments, owners can avoid the problems associated with excess moisture and mould. In addition to fan controls, Fantech offers FlatPack ducting and a wide range of low profile, high performance fans for apartments tments and other residential applications.
Modular Air Handling dling ange Unit EC Range Up to 19,000 Litres / S Sec
© AirDesign 2015
© AirDesign 2015
Air Design has also released a range of new product brochures for the MODUtherm and MINItherm range of modular air handling units, and the MYCROtherm range of fan coil units. The brochures include a fresh design with new product information, technical data and drawings. Brochures, drawings and technical data can also be viewed or downloaded from the website by simply selecting the product and following the prompts. The professional new look is just one of the initiatives Air Design is taking as it consolidates its market position and focuses on continuing to deliver exceptional customer service at a competitive price.
“The business has invested 36 years in the HVAC market, and has accumulated exceptional product and application knowledge for fans and air handling units over that time,” Kevin said. “Very strict quality controls and our focus on engineering excellence have ensured customers receive high quality products and this has helped build a strong reputation for quality, reliability and performance.” Kevin said Air Design would continue to develop its strong staff culture of continuous improvement across the organisation through empowerment and training. “We will continue to evolve so we can provide real value to customers through innovation and our commitment to customer service,” he said.
A.G. Coombs celebrates 70 years Allan George Coombs AM was passionate about his industry, a trailblazer that turned his 1945 one-man plumbing business into one of the most recognisable names in the HVAC industry. He united the industry as the AMCA’s (Air Conditioning and Mechanical Contractors Association’s) first President in 1961 and continued to introduce new concepts and improvements to industry. His company A.G. Coombs was the first contracting company to run its own product-independent servicing operation and was involved in establishing the Industry Standard for Sheet Metal Manufacture through the Sheet Metal & Air-conditioning Contractors’ National Association (SMACNA). The growth and innovation continues, and 70 years later A.G. Coombs has become a group of seven companies, with an annual turnover of $300 million, over 600 direct employees, and offices in Victoria, NSW, Queensland and the ACT. Russell Telford has seen a lot of changes in his 27 years with A.G. Coombs. He began as a site foreman in 1988, was promoted to management in 1993 before taking the reigns as Group Managing Director in 2001. “Allan Coombs’ leadership qualities have been instilled in the company and are something we pride ourselves on,” Russell said. “We take the lead where we can, and if not in a position to do so then we provide support through industry associations like the AMCA and the Australian Institute of
Refrigeration, Air Conditioning and Heating (AIRAH).” Today, A.G. Coombs is a national multi-service business providing customers with a whole-of-life service encompassing technical advice, design, installation, ongoing maintenance and technical management services. Their professional approach has seen them win high profile projects in a wide range of industry sectors including IT and telecommunications, higher education, pharmaceutical manufacturing, arts, transport, commercial, retail and healthcare. Recent Victorian examples include the new Royal Children’s Hospital, Box Hill Hospital, the new Bendigo Hospital and the new Monash Children’s Hospital. These are four leading healthcare facilities for which A.G. Coombs is delivering HVAC and mechanical systems and services. Fantech has supplied a wide range of quality fans, attenuators and other ventilation products to these projects along with invaluable technical advice and assistance. “We have a long and successful association with Fantech, and appreciate the support we always receive,” Russell said. “For that reason we consider Fantech a partner on our projects.” Fantech congratulate A.G. Coombs on reaching their 70 year milestone.
Current project: Lendlease’s Barangaroo South, Sydney Image: A.G. Coombs
Fantech sends christmas cheer to Challenge Fantech is continuing its tradition this year by donating funds, otherwise used to buy Christmas cards, to a worthy charity. This Christmas the donation will go to Challenge, a not-for-profit organisation that provides daily support for children and families living with cancer. Challenge provides over 300 young people and their families vital support services in and out of hospital every week.
This can range from providing hospital patients with access to computers and the internet, to family programs, transportation and fininacial assistance. To date, Challenge has helped make a difference in the quality of life for over 25,000 young Australians and their families. For further information, or if you would like to make a donation, visit http://www.challenge.org.au
WOULD YOU LIKE MORE INFORMATION? Please send me a copy of the Fans by Fantech Product Selection Program. Please send me a copy of the New JetVent guide. Please send me a copy of the Rickard VAV diffuser brochure.
We know you enjoy Tech Talk. How would you prefer to receive it? Please tick one, complete your contact details and return it to us. I would prefer the electronic version of Tech Talk only. I would prefer to get both electronic and printed versions of Tech Talk. I would like to be removed from the Tech Talk distribution list.
Have you relocated? Please help us keep our records up to date by including your new details. NEW DETAILS
OLD DETAILS (if applicable) Name: ............................................
Name: ......................................................................
Position: .........................................
Position: ...................................................................
Company: ......................................
Company: ................................................................
State: .............................................
Address: .............................................................................................................................. Suburb: ................................... State:.......................... Postcode: ...................................... Tel: .......................................... Fax: ........................... E-mail: ........................................... Photocopy this form and mail or fax the information to: Fantech Pty. Ltd., 42 - 62 Pound Rd West, Dandenong South, Vic. 3175, Australia. Fax: 61-3-9554 7833 or E-mail: twingfield@fantech.com.au
Part of the
Fantech Contacts
Please send me a copy of the new 2016 Fans by Fantech catalogue: Electronic version Hard copy printed version
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 Hobart (03) 6273 6455 Launceston (03) 6344 6888 Melbourne H.O. (03) 9554 7845 Melbourne CBD (03) 9696 3044 Newcastle (02) 4961 6088 Perth (08) 9209 4999 Sydney (02) 8811 0400 Sydney CBD (02) 9698 8130 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