Newsletter Number 83
ECU building connects More than just a building, Ngoolark is an award winning piece of architecture that connects buildings, students and the local Nyoongar community and changes the way in which those spaces are used.
Built at Edith Cowan University, Joondalup campus, B34 was named Ngoolark, the Nyoongar word for the endangered white tailed black cockatoo, also referred to as Carnaby’s black cockatoo. The plumage of this local parrot has inspired the golden wrap-around façade of folded, perforated aluminium cladding and the ceramic frit on glazed panels, which together provide sun shading. Other references to aboriginal culture include charcoal paving with swirling white lines representing Joondal - water flow through a billabong creating eddies and eroding rock as it rushes past stone surfaces – the namesake of the area. Before construction began, the site had been the meeting point for a number of pedestrian paths. However, a major change in elevation often impeded traffic flow between the two levels and left the primary administrative buildings disconnected from the rest of campus.
September 2016
the campus. The five levels of useable space in the building are mostly used for offices but have been designed as flexible work areas to suit the changing needs of the university,” he said. A large atrium off to the eastern end of the building presented the largest challenge for Triple-M as a lot of duct and pipe was buried beneath. “The service trench was capped and covered and would not be accessible later, so all of the mechanical services had to be pressure tested to make sure that there were no issues down the line. “The atrium smoke exhaust system consisted of three large (2m diameter) adjustable pitch axial flow fans for smoke-spill application. These fans were located in the plant room on the sixth level and discharged directly through the roof,” he said. “Otherwise, the project was quite straight forward with various Fantech fans installed throughout the building, these included general exhaust and toilet exhaust; boiler room supply and exhaust fans; photocopier exhaust fans; and some miscellaneous supply and exhaust fans.”
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The campus district cooling network fed Ngoolark is an chilled water into the building for the award winning air conditioning via buried pre-insulated chilled water pipework mains. The incumbent piece of BMS contractor integrated services with the architecture... existing BMS Front End on the campus which ensured that monitoring and control of the building could be achieved remotely from one central location.
Chris Sawdon from Triple-M Mechanical Services oversaw the mechanical services installation and was impressed by the design from JCY Architects and Urban Designers. “It is a good looking building that is very functional, and PACT Construction have done a great job with the build so it’s easy to see why it was named the best Commercial Construction ($10-$50 million) at the WA chapter of the Australian Institute of Building’s Professional Excellence in Building Awards,” he said. “They have incorporated the change in elevation to create a 6-storey building that effectively has two ground levels – a market level and a podium level – which link the admin buildings, library and lecture theatre with the rest of
The Ngoolark was officially opened on 4 May 2015.
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Technically Speaking with Peter Henry
VGVAV diffusers
and duct design considerations onsidera
(Part two)
Equal friction duct design
Variable Geometry Variable Air Volume (VGVAV) diffusers are an effective method of controlling the thermal comfort of a room whilst reducing energy consumption.
Most engineers use the equal friction method for duct design where ducts are size sized for a constant static pressure loss due to friction per unit len length.
VGVAV diffusers are pressure dependent devices and to operate at optimal performance a low pressure duct design is needed. The pressure in a branch with VGVAV diffusers is normally set between 20-60Pa depending on the room’s air volume requirements. This pressure is typically monitored with a pressure sensor that is placed two-thirds of the way down the duct work and maintained via a variable speed fan, pressure control damper or bypass damper. In this article we will look at good duct design principles and the use of equal friction and static regain duct design with VGVAV diffusers.
Good duct design considerations
Good duct design is important for all HVAC systems as the design influences the amount of pressure lost across a system. Poor duct design requires the fan to work harder and compensate for the loss of pressure, resulting in higher energy usage and running costs. When designing a duct system, consider how the duct will change direction, the length of flexible duct used, and how this affects the system pressure.
Flexible duct length - The most common problem with duct
design is the use of long flexible duct lengths with diffusers. A big difference in pressure can be found between minimum and maximum air flow requirements, causing noise and energy losses. It is important to keep the length of flexible duct taut and short, with a maximum of 1.5m recommended.
This method works ssatisfactory for low pressure systems with VGVAV diffusers, but the following must be considered, especially if retro-fitting VGVAV diffusers to existing duct work: • The branch velocit velocities should be between 4 to 6 m/s • The duct run shou should be short enough so that the pressure drop from the beginning of the run to the end falls within 10% to 20% of the range that th the VAV diffusers can accommodate • Zones need to be downstream of the Pressure Control Damper ((PCD) PCD) PC D to ensure pr proper temperature control • Good duct design principles should be used By using the equal fr friction duct design, energy efficiency and th f t can be improved. thermall comfort
Static regain duct design
Static regain duct designs use the reduction in air velocity and therefore the reduction in air pressure after each duct section to regain the static pressure loss due to friction in the preceding duct length. The objective is to maintain the same static pressure throughout the duct run. The more energy efficient static regain duct method is suitable for longer and larger duct systems, whereas the equal friction method is only suitable for short duct runs. On high rise buildings the static regain “ring-duct design” is often used. VGVAV diffusers are designed to work at their best in a low pressure system using static regain duct design. They bring key advantages to a HVAC system including: • Excellent energy efficiency as they operate from low pressure duct work where smaller variable speed Fan Coil Units and Air Handling Units can be installed. • Individual thermal comfort control as the VGVAV diffuser can manage individual spaces within a building.
Other benefits of electronic VGVAV diffusers Taut flexible duct
Flexible duct bends -
Slack flexible duct
It is also important that flexible duct bends have an even curvature as a smoother radius improves air flow and helps to minimise load on ducted heating and cooling units.
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T-Junction - The right angle of a T-junction causes air resistance and pressure loss. Pressure losses between high and low air flow branches can be minimised by having a curved entry point. This has the additional benefit of reducing noise.
• Ease of Installation. All VGVAV diffusers are installed in groups of up to 15 and then repeated throughout the building • Ease of commissioning. Using a Rickard air flow sensor allows electronic air flow control, therefore no air flow hood measurements are required • Flexible control. Remote monitoring enables easy tenant layout changes and building fine tuning • Built-in intelligence. For room comfort control operation • Occupancy sensors. For automatic back-off and light control • Range. Models are available for ceiling (standard and swirl), linear and bulkhead installations With modern electronic VGVAV diffusers matched with low pressure duct designs, buildings can lower their total system pressure and hence yield higher system efficiency. When the holistic HVAC system is considered and the benefits that low pressure diffusion designs can yield over the life of the building, it makes sense why these modern trends are so attractive. For these reasons these systems are being widely used around the world. For further information on VGVAV diffusers please refer to the Fantech website www.fantech.com.au under Diffusion.
Fantech attenuators. Proven in the toughest
environments. For over 25 years Fantech have continuously invested in research and development to deliver a high quality range of acoustic attenuators with accurate and dependable data. The range has been installed in some of the most acoustically demanding buildings such as Lady Cilento Children’s Hospital in Brisbane, Perth Arena, St Vincent’s hospital in Sydney and the County Court of Victoria. This extensive range of Rectangular, Circular and Cross-Talk attenuators together with Sound Bar Louvres can now be built, tested and delivered within 10 days or less*. The range has also been re-engineered to deliver the quality you have come to expect at the most competitive price in the market. Fantech is the only supplier of attenuators in Australia and New Zealand with its own acoustic test rig that complies with the latest Standard ISO7235:2003, and BS4718:1971. Full details on the attenuator range can be found on the Fantech website www.fantech.com.au and the Fans by Fantech catalogue. Specific silencer selections can be easily made by adding the specification details into the Fantech Product Selection Program.
Intelligent car park
system gets smarter
Fantech’s JetVent car park ventilation system has got smarter and even easier to install now that Vacon V Variable h tV i bl Speed S d Drives (VSDs) for supply and exhaust fans can be connected to the CommLink system. Fantech NSW Senior Sales Engineer Ritesh Daraji said the CommLink communications set up was the ‘brains’ of the system and allowed the EcoVent controller, pollutant sensors, integrated smoke detectors, JetVent fans and Vacon VSDs to communicate with each other. “Together they create an intelligent, energy efficient system for ventilating car parks that is simple to install and commission,” he said. Ritesh said the Vacon VSDs on supply and exhaust fans could be installed remotely around the car park at a maximum distance of 1,000m from the EcoVent controller. “When integrated into the JetVent car park system, the VSDs provide feedback to the EcoVent controller as actual RPM signals to give greater control over the ventilation,” he said. These capabilities have been utilised in the basement car park of Parkside, a low-rise residential building in Campbelltown, NSW. Spread over three levels, the car park has four JetVent fans and five VSDs – three for exhaust fans and two for supply fans.
* Working days. ys. ly, may Australia only, exclude some me areas.
Antoine Farah of Viscona designed the car park system for Parkside relatively quickly because the JetVent fans include advanced digital EC motor technology that eliminated the need for current overloads and motor phase protection. This means there are no harmonic problems or need for additional protection. Commissioning is He said the fans generated also quick as the fans +24V DC which powered the CO sensors, and helped to come pre-programed... reduce the amount of wiring required during installation. The CO sensors are also wired directly to the JetVent fans and the fans daisy-chained together, further reducing the time spent on cabling during installation.
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“Commissioning is also quick as the fans come pre-programmed and the whole system can be tested by changing the jumper position on the CO sensor from Idle to Over,” added Ritesh. “And if there is a problem with any of the system components, an alarm message displays on the EcoVent Controller which identifies the issue so that it can be easily rectified. “The JetVent car park system is an intelligent ventilation solution, and through Fantech’s process of continual improvement we have integrated technologies that have made the system smarter and more efficient.”
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Heat hounds training of WA guide dogs Systemaire, the West Australian branch of Fantech, has brought cool relief to the state’s Guide Dogs with a donation of three pedestal fans. Temperatures last summer soared past 40°C on several occasions in Perth, and the young Labradors undergoing six months of intense formal training at Guide Dogs WA were feeling the heat. Guide Dog Services Manager, Zena Gomes said they did not receive any government funding and were totally reliant on the generosity of the community, individuals, families and businesses to fund the Guide Dog Program. “Systemaire came out within 24 hours of our call and inspected the open-plan training room. They decided three pedestal fans were the best cooling option which were then donated to the centre.” Zena said Guide Dogs enhanced the mobility and independence of people who were blind or vision impaired. However, it took two years and cost more than $35,000 to train each Guide Dog, so it was important to look after their welfare and ensure that the training was effective. She said the air movement and sense of relief from the fans was welcomed by the dogs, and also appreciated by the instructors and trainers working in the room.
Fans by Fantech Product Selection Program with Stuart Bryson
Hints and Tips Creating a Schedule
After selecting a fan or a silencer, you have the option to “Add to Schedule”. This allows you to build a project schedule of products, which you can save in a “fanx” format file. At any time the schedule data can be reloaded into the Selection Program exactly as originally selected. Saving the schedule allows you to continue selecting products for the project later and adjust existing selections if the requirements change - for example, using the Speed Slider (TechTalk #79) to see the effects of a VSD on a fan, or use the Reselect button to take the original selection criteria and use it to select a different fan or silencer. Version 5.4 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.
2016 Fans by Fantech catalogue
Do you have your copy yet?
explain how these integrated systems te tems te work and provide performance and technical chnical data. Similarly, new introductory information nformation explaining attenuator principals and ‘How to’ tables for rectangular and circular ular attenuators now make product selection election easier. The controls section has also been expanded to now include the full range of EC controls and sensors, full range ange of QR code technology has been used Vacon VSDs, together with run-on n timers extensively throughout the new catalogue. and speed controls. Codes on product pages can be scanned More than just a product catalogue; ue; with a smart phone or tablet where the the 2016 edition of the Fans by Fantech antech product’s features are displayed along ir with performance curves, wiring diagrams, catalogue provides sustainable air management solutions as well ass valuable dimensions and suitable ancillaries. The information on recommended installations, stallations, Fantech catalogue, website and Product fan maintenance and fan laws. It is s available Selection Program are fully integrated so you can access up-to-date material at any as hard copy, on USB and can be downloaded from the Fantech website. ebsite. time or place. To order your copy of the catalogue ue please To ensure products are easier to find, visit www.fantech.com/FansByFantech.aspx tech.aspx, catalogue pages featuring fans in sections scan the QR code below, or contact act your A, B and D have been re-arranged so nearest Fantech branch/agent. nch/agent. they are grouped in their family types. On the Contents pages products are also grouped according to their suitable application, ie general exhaust, kitchen exhaust, smoke spill and bushfire code compliant. The popular Fans by Fantech catalogue has been updated and expanded so that products are easier to find, and it integrates with the Fantech website and Product Selection Program. It includes an additional 55 new product ranges and over 450 individual sizes and variants.
New dedicated sections on JetVent car park systems and Rickard VAV diffusers
Product News
The Fantech Ultimate header box fan comes with a stylish square or round diffuser making it ideal for modern residential and small commercial buildings. Its design includes a unique, low resistance non-return backdraft damper to increase air flow performance and minimise outside air entering the building when the fan is off. Its low profile compact design and side exhaust outlet allows the fan to be mounted between floors and in rooms with limited ceiling space such as those featuring cathedral ceilings.
with Kerry Dumicich The
Ultimate
Header Box Exhaust Fan
Speed of installation was also a major design focus. The Fantech Ultimate features a removal spigot that simplifies duct connection, and high strength swing clips that make installation into a standard 10” round cut out easy. The fan comes complete with a plug and lead to further speed up installation and an easy to remove grille so that cleaning is simple. The Fantech Ultimate header box fan is also available with a 3 to 15-minute adjustable run-on timer. This allows the fan to continue operating for a pre-set time after it has been turned off to improve ventilation and prevent the build-up of moisture and mould. The aerodynamic and fully optimised design of the Fantech Ultimate header box fan makes it one of the quietest exhaust quie qu q uiete test st and and most mos ostt powerful po p owe werf r ul ceiling-mounted ce g available. ffans availabl le. e
Ultimate performance super quiet operation Advanced impeller and housing design combine to make the Fantech Ultimate ceiling-mounted header box fan one of the quietest and most powerful in its class. A fully optimised inlet cone and centrifugal impeller maximise air pressure and helps produce strong, efficient air flow performance. This ensures rooms such as toilets, bathrooms and laundries are cleared of steam and unpleasant odours quickly and quietly.
Fantech Ultimate with square diffuser
time feedback to the fan. The fan’s microprocessor then adjusts the impeller speed and therefore modulates the ventilation rate to match the areas requirements. ” The Powerline Ultra with EC motor is a simple ‘plug and play’ system which means the installer doesn’t need to have specialised control programing knowledge.
PowerLine ULTRA The quiet achiever
Architects, engineers and developers are constantly searching for ways to reduce the running costs of a building without compromising the comfort of building occupants.
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...uses an advanced, mixed flow impeller design with high performance blade geometry.
The innovative PowerLine Ultra in-line fan uses an advanced, mixed flow impeller design with high performance blade geometry. It produces up to a staggering 30% more air flow than current PowerLine models of the same size, without generating higher noise levels. It means a smaller and lighter PowerLine Ultra that consumes less energy and produces less noise could be a viable alternative. In most cases an Ultra will produce similar air flows to the next size larger in the standard model and meet the specifications required.
Fantech Ultimate with round diffuser
The PowerLine Ultra range is available in 7 sizes ranging from 315 to 630mm diameter. Its case is made from robust, yet lightweight galvanised steel with easy to fit 35mm TDF profile flange connections.
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Fantech’s Engineering Manager Kerry Dumicich explains “The ground breaking design of our new Powerline Ultra offers continued savings to building occupants through reduced running costs and a quieter environment.” The PowerLine Ultra is available with an AC or EC motor for further savings in running costs. PowerLine Ultra with EC motor features fully integrated, infinitely variable speed control which eliminates the need for external VSDs, current overloads and motor phase protection. Kerry said, “Optional matching sensors monitor the ambient conditions and provide real
The company continued to expand and in 1996, a specialist service and warranty maintenance department was introduced to look after their growing client base. Today Baratech is based at Thornleigh NSW and Wayne is at the helm as Managing Director following the retirement of Malcolm and Mark. Matthew Eaton is now General Manager and provides direction for the 30 permanent staff who oversee a portfolio of projects across Sydney that include larger commercial and residential jobs.
In 1976 Malcom Purnell established Baratech Air Conditioning, a Hornsby NSW based business providing ventilation solutions for small commercial buildings and larger residential homes. Happy clients eager to return with new projects helped drive the company growth and several moves to larger premises. In 1986 Malcolm began the first steps to retirement with the 50% sale of his contracting company to Mark Howard. The other 50% share was bought by Wayne Carter two years later. “I was really just a man with a van, subcontracting for Baratech,” Wayne said, “but in that time I became better acquainted with Malcolm and the business and so when the opportunity arose, I bought Malcolm’s remaining share.”
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company “ The continued to
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“Fantech fans are reliable and reflect the performance data provided by their industry-leading selection program,” Wayne said, “and for this reason they remain my ‘go-to’ company for fans.”
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Fantech congratulate Baratech on reaching their 40-year milestone.
WOULD YOU LIKE MORE INFORMATION? Please send me a copy of the new 2016 Fans by Fantech catalogue Please send me a copy of the Fans by Fantech Product Selection Program. Please send me a copy of the Fantech Ultimate Header Box fan brochure. Please send me a copy of the PowerLine Ultra in-line fan brochure
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Fantech Contacts
Baratech celebrate 40 years
Wayne said Baratech had enjoyed a long association with Fantech that began with Malcolm 40 years ago. “They have been involved with the majority of our projects providing quality equipment and prompt delivery of fans to maintain building programs. We recently completed a large project in Chatswood NSW that included over 550 apartments across three towers. Fantech fans were utilised throughout the complex, including the ProVent RIL200 for bathroom exhaust, and AP series axial fans for the stairwell pressurisation.”
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 Newcastle (02) 4961 6088 Perth (08) 9209 4999 Sydney (02) 8811 0400 Townsville (07) 4775 5222 Wollongong (02) 4226 5133 New Zealand Auckland H.O. Christchurch Wellington
Asia For agents in the Asian region call (603) 7846 0340 or visit www.eltafantechasia.com
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: hgarcia@fantech.com.au
(09) 444 6266 (03) 379 8622 (04) 566 0532
Visit our website at www.fantech.com.au