bs-news-oct_nov-09-web

October/November 2009b u i l d i n g s e r v i c e s n e w snewsbs

R22/HCFCPhase-out,Chillers andHeat Pumps

CommercialBoilers

RefrigerationApprenticeof the Year

OfficeHEVACAttenuation

REFRIGERATION

Cov Oct 09 copy:Cover April 2009 (D) 12/11/2009 09:29 Page 1

bs news October/November 2009

1

Congratulations youshow-offs!!!

How refreshing it was to spend a couple of days at therecent Plan Expo EcoBuild exhibition in the RDS. Withso much negativity about it was encouraging to seeindustry players step up to the plate and showcase a positive,confident, image of the sector.

The exhibitor profile at Plan Expo EcoBuild has changedconsiderably in recent years, the emphasis on energy andsustainability being reflected in the increased number ofbuilding services-related companies participating.

All credit to the organisers and exhibitors at the most recentevent who, despite the industry downturn, put on an excellentindustry showcase. It may have been a smaller show than inprevious years and the number of visitors may have been down,but that is an accurate picture of the current state of affairs.

Interestingly, exhibitors bs news spoke to were, for the mostpart, very happy with the event. The quality of the visitor profilewas much improved with a great deal of very senior consultants,architects and OPW personnel attending, presumablybecause they have more time on their hands. Additionally,those manning the stands had the time to engage in moredepth with them.

While the level of business is certainly down in the contextof new build, the demand for more energy-efficient andsustainable buildings is driving a resurgence of the retrofitmarket. This was very much in evidence at Plan ExpoEcoBuild. What was also evident was that those companieswho participated be they exhibitors or visitors are the oneswho will reap the benefits of their positive, pro-activeapproach.

ContentsNews and Products 2

CIBSE Golf News 6

R22/HCFC Phase-out, Chillers 8and Heat Pumps

Refrigeration Apprentice of the Year 17

ACA Tax Incentive 20

Commercial Boilers 22

Niall Mellon Trust Seeks Volunteers 27

RACGS 28

Sanyo Back to the Future 30

Designing Building Services 30

Back Issues 36

17

bs newsb u i l d i n g s e r v i c e s n e w s

ISSN 0791-0878Published by:Pressline Ltd,Carraig Court, Georges Avenue, Blackrock, Co Dublin.Tel: 01 - 288 5001/2/3 Fax: 01 - 288 6966ISDN: 01 - 211 2338/9email: [email protected]: www.buildingservicesnews.com

www.bsnewsbuyerguide.comwww.pressline.ie

UK Office:Mike Knight Tel: (+44) 07966 196 383 email: [email protected]

Editor: Pat LehaneAdvertisement Director: Joe WarrenOrigination and Design:Pressline Ltd. Tel: 01 - 288 5001Subscription: One Year e70 Printed by: Swift Print Solutions (SPS). All editorial contents and all advertisements prepared by the publishers, Pressline Ltd.

22

8

opinion

1 Contents alt:Layout 1 11/11/2009 12:27 Page 1

Alpex-plus givesinstallation green light Unitherm Heating Systems Ltd recently introduced theAlpex-plus push-fit fitting for multilayer and PEX pipes.The innovative push-fit fitting is made of polyphenylsulfone(PPSU) with a stainless steel sleeve in an impressively-slim design. PPSU offers extremely good impact strengthwhile also being non-toxic.

The new fitting available in sizes of 16mm x 2mmand 20mm x 2mm offers particular features such as theinnovative indicator that helps to make sure that the pipehas been inserted completely. If the indicator of theAlpex-plus fitting turns greenafter the pipe has been pushedin, a safe connection is assured.

The Alpex-plus fittings arequick and easy to install simply deburr, push in pipe and the job is done. Thisconsiderably reduces theamount of work required andspeeds up the installation process. The fittings can beremoved using a special tool without causing damage.

In addition to DVGW approval which independentlyverifies the excellent quality of Alpex-plus, a 10-yearcertificate for the entire Alpex-plus range is provided.

Contact: Unitherm Heating Systems. Dublin Tel: 6109153; Galway Tel: 091 380038.

The DigiMag Series DM-1100 digital differentialpressure gauge fromManotherm monitors thepressure of air andcompatible gases just as its famous predecessor, the Magnehelic differentialpressure gauge.

All models are factory-calibrated to specificranges, while the simplifiedfour-button operationreduces set-up time and simplifies actual calibration with its digitalpush-button zero and span.

The four-digit LCD candisplay pressure readingsin eight common imperialand metric units soconversions are notnecessary. Accessoriesinclude surface mountingbracket; flat flush-mountingbracket; 3-way vent valve;

and plastic static pressuretip.

Technical specificationsinclude:

Housing Materials glass-filled plastic;

Accuracy 1% FS,including linearity,hystereses andrepeatability;

Compensatedtemperature limits 0C to 50C;

Long-term stability 0.9% FS per year;

Power requirements 9 to 24VDSC with batteryback- up or stand-alonebattery;

Enclosure rating NEMA 4X (IP66) front face.

Contact: Bob Gilbert,Robert Gilbert or ConorStead, Manotherm. Tel: 01 - 452 2355; email:[email protected];www.manotherm.ie


News and Products

2

Manotherm DigitalDifferential Pressure Gauge

Honeywell Valves awardedWaterwise MarqueHoneywell compact pressure-reducing valves have been awarded the Waterwise Marque, awardedannually to products which reduce water wastage orraise the awareness of water efficiency.

The valves feature a balanced seat design and drop-tight seal, which hold the reducedpressure constant, day and night,even when there is wide inletpressure fluctuation.

The Waterwise Marque applies toHoneywell D04FS, D05F and D06Fvalves. Models are available withbuilt-in filters, optional pressuregauges and a range of connectionsfrom DN10 to DN50 (3/8 to 2 inch).

Honeywell also manufactures flanged cast ironpressure-regulating valves for large water flows.

Contact: www.honeywellukwater.com

H A U S T E C H N I K

B U I L D I N G T E C H N O L O G Y

alpex-plus der innovative Steckfitting

alpex-plus the innovative push-fit fitting

New MD for ISS IrelandPaul Lynch has been appointed Managing Director ofISS Ireland. A graduate of UCD and a Fellow of theInstitute of CharteredAccountants, Paul previouslyworked with Arthur Andersen,the Heiton Group plc, andOne51 plc.

ISS entered the Irish marketin 1995 and today employsover 3,700 people nationwidewith offices in Dublin, Cork,Limerick, Galway, Drogheda, Letterkenny and Celbridge.

The company operates in a wide range of public andprivate industry sectors providing property maintenance,cleaning, security, catering, office support, pest controland washroom services to a broad range of private andpublic sector customers.

News Oct:Layout 1 06/11/2009 15:04 Page 1

CONTROL MODE ON / OFF

OR MODULATING?

IS DP CONTROL NEEDED WITH MODULATING?

WHERE TOSTABILISE THE DP ?

RISER? BRANCHES?

INDIVIDUALLY?

Hydronic systems are more effective when balanced

correctly. Terminal valves adjust the flows to fit design

condition, which together with proper control ensures

that the hydronic system works the way it should. And

because we understand that no two hydronic systems

are the same, TA has developed the

industrys most comprehensive range of valves for small

terminal units. And thats in addition to our huge array

of balancing tools such as instruments, handbooks and

software programs. In short, whatever the requirements

of your hydronic system, we have what you need.

Think balancing, think TA.

Tour & Andersson Ltd. Unit 3 Nimbus Park, Porz Avenue, Dunstable, Beds. LU5 5WZ. Tel: +44(0)1582 866 377. Fax: +44(0)1582 865 655. www.tourandersson.co.uk

At TA, we believe in always using the right tool for the job.That is why we have the industrys largest range of dedicated terminal valves.

Well never put a square pegin a round hole.


News and Products

TAs service delivery flies highTour & Anderssons service delivery ensured that valves for the waterborne systemand biomass boiler at Stansted airports 40 million extension were delivered ontime and to budget.

Tour & Anderssons valves were specified to ensure hot and cold water istransported through the system from biomass boilers. These burn renewable formsof fuel to generate hot water for direct use and heating purposes. The latest resultsindicate the biomass technology is set to help reduce predicted annual airport gasconsumption at theairport by nearly40%. The successhas been recognisedby DEFRA whichawarded theStansted ArrivalsProject with a grantunder the bio-energycapital GrantsScheme.

It was Tour &Anderssonscommitment to quickdelivery that won thecontract, whichrequired a valve partner that could guarantee delivery of all the valves on time.

Delivery was a very important factor for the Stansted Airport project, explainsNigel Huggins, Managing Director of Tour & Andersson. By understanding theserequirements, we were able to do the take-offs and ensure that all the units weresupplied to site in line with the work schedule.

The extension of Stansted sees the existing arrivals terminal increased to createan additional 5,900m sq of floor space in the building. Overall the extension toimmigration, baggage and customs halls will allow Stansted to handle an extramillion passengers each year.

The terminal extension provides nearly 6,000 sq m of additional space for arrivingpassengers, including a sixth baggage reclaim belt and extra desk space forimmigration control managed by the UK Border Agency.

Contact: www.tourandersson.co.uk

CylonBACnetControllersWith BACnet now thepreferred standard forbuilding servicesintegration, Cylon hasextended its BACnetsolution to a new range ofterminal unit controllers forfan coil, chilled ceiling andVAV applications.

Two new controllers areinvolved UCU10FCBACnet, a programmableunitary controller designedfor use with fancoil andchilled ceiling applications;and UCU10VAV BACnet, a programmable unitarycontroller designed for usewith single duct and fanassisted VAV applications.

Cylon native BACnetcontrollers offer flexibilityand

performance on an openplatform. Importantly, theycan be engineeredremotely over BACnetwhich means that sites canbe rapidly commissionedwith engineering of all terminal units from a single location.

Contact: Cylon Controls.Tel: 01 245 0500;www.cylon.com4

CIBSE Conference refurbishment opportunitiesThe CIBSE annual conference sub-committee is currently compiling the list ofspeakers for the CIBSE Annual Conference 2010 which will take place inDublin next spring, the core theme of which will be refurbishment and retrofit.

Speakers will highlight the urgency of bringing Irelands existing buildingstock up to compliance standards in respect of reduced energy usage andharmful emmissions, while also identifying the potential business opportunitiesthis represents for the industry at large.

bs news will have more detailed information in the next edition.Engineering a sustainable

built environment

News Oct:Layout 1 06/11/2009 15:05 Page 2

This doesnt have to be a dream. With the Accelerated Capital Allowance (ACA) scheme you can lower your energy costs and reduce your tax bill.

The ACA scheme can help your company invest in energy efficient equipment and provides real tax benefits.

More cash, less tax

Find out how your company can save by visiting www.sei.ie/aca or call 01 808 2100

15592 SEI A4 ad.indd 1 3/11/09 11:31:12

ResultsThe winner of the PJ Doyle Trophy was Fergus Weldrick,playing off a handicap of 23, who recorded a fantastic scoreof 46 points.

The Chairmans Prize was retained by Colin Murphy,playing off a handicap of 7, with a great score of 38 points. The team results were as follows:First: CIBSE Chairmans Team, 93pts; Second: Control Aer, 90pts (won on the back 9); Third: Patric Engineering, 90pts; Front nine: Wilo, 43pts; Back nine: Safegard, 44pts; Nearest the pin: Brian Sterling, 2.8m;Longest drive: Michael OCarroll.

The CIBSE annual golf outing was held inEdmondstown Golf Club recently with14 teams takingpart. The course was in great condition, thanks toexcellent work by the grounds staff the night before, but theweather on the day was a mixture of showers and sunshine.

Richard OHare of Edmondstown was the starter and he didan excellent job ensuring that the teams left the first tee box at the allotted time.

The outing took theform of a Stableford competition with the ChairmansPrize being presented to the CIBSE member with the best individual score and the PJ Doyle Trophy going to the overall individual winner.

The main event was a team event with the best two scores on each hole, and all four scores on the 18th hole,contributing to each teams final points tally.

The outing proved an enormous success, thanks largely tothe efforts of organiser Gerald OCallaghan and the assistanceprovided by Gerry Fitzpatrick and Martin Keogh on the day.CIBSE is deeply indebted to the many team sponsors, in addition to the additional support provided by MycoldEngineering and GT Phelan.


CIBSE News

Chairmans team Martin Byrne with GerOCallaghan, Tony McKinley, Chairman CIBSERepublic of Ireland region and Gerry Fitzpatrick.

Control Aer team Trevor Drennan with TonyMcKinley and Dave Kelly.

Scintillating scores at Edmondstown

Patric Engineering team Joe Weafer with TonyMcKinley, John Brick and John Murphy.6

6 CIBSE:Layout 1 11/11/2009 12:12 Page 1

Background The phase-out of manyozone depleting substancesover the last two decades isthanks to the MontrealProtocol, which is widelyaccepted as one of the mostsuccessful environmentalagreements to date. TheMontreal Protocol is seen aseffective because it hasachieved its aim to haltdepletion of the ozone layerand it has received thebacking of every singlecountry in the world. Thissuccess has also had the

added benefit of helping to combat climate change,since some ozone depletingsubstances also havesignificant climate impacts.HCFCs are among the fewremaining ozone depletingsubstances yet to be fullyphased out.

The ban on virgin HCFCAt the end of this year, virginHCFC can no longer be usedin any servicing ormaintenance of refrigeration,air conditioning or heat pumpequipment. Even if there is a

leak in the system, virginHCFC cannot be used to top it up after 31 December2009. However, between 1 January 2010 and 31December 2014, recycled orreclaimed HCFC can beused for maintenance orservicing of such equipment.Of course equipment runningon HCFCs can continue tobe used but end-users andcontractors should bear inmind that there may be ashortage of recycled orreclaimed HCFC in the nextfew years. So if you rely on

equipment running onHCFCs, now is the time todevelop a phase-out andreplacement plan, especiallyif the equipment is serving acritical function. Any virginHCFC remaining on sitesafter 31 December 2009 will have to be treated ashazardous waste.

Recovered HCFCIt is important that any HCFCrecovered from equipment ismanaged properly and eitherrecycled on site using a basiccleaning process, or sentaway for full reclamation to return it to the equivalentperformance of a virginsubstance. Any contractorremoving recoveredrefrigerant gas from an end-user site should havesubmitted a Prior AnnualNotification to the EPA. More information on this isavailable at www.ozone.ie.The storage of wasterefrigerant gases is notpermitted on any site (otherthan temporary storage onsite of generation), unlessthat site is specificallyauthorised to do so.

With the approaching ban on virgin HCFC, thequestion has been askedabout recovering HCFC andcharging with virgin HCFC


Approaching the end for virgin HCFC refrigerants

8

This year is an important year in the refrigeration and airconditioning world. From the end of this year, there will only be restricted use of HCFCs for the maintenance andservicing of refrigeration and air conditioning equipment.HCFCs are part of a group of chemicals known as ozonedepleting substances. HCFCs were commonly usedfollowing the phase-out of CFCs in previous years, as theyare far less damaging to the ozone layer. However, HCFCsstill damage the ozone layer and their time is nearly up. The HCFC refrigerants we are talking about are mainly R22 but there may be other HCFC refrigerants still in use.The use of these gases will be phased out completely by 31 December 2014, starting with a ban on the use of virgin HCFC at the end of this year.

Chillers, Heat Pumps and R22/HCFC Phase-out

Refrig Feature EPA:Layout 1 07/11/2009 10:20 Page 1

The new 4 series Super Digital Inverter from Toshiba is equipped

with new Eco-driving twin-rotary compressors making the

system energy class A in both heating and cooling. This results in

savings of up to 70% in annual energy costs compared to fixed

speed systems.

Designed as a new, energy efficient R410A single or twin split

system, the Super Digital Inverter is also the perfect replacement for

existing R22 and R407C systems. Able to replace both indoor and

outdoor units whilst utilising the existing pipework*, the result is a

quicker, cheaper, more environmentally responsible installation.

Contact us today for more information.

Energy efficient R410A Super DigitalInverter also the perfect solutionfor R22 and R407C replacement systems, and for the environment.

Tel: 01 286 4377 Email: [email protected]

*Provided the existing pipework meets current legalrequirements regarding pressure rating of R410A.

before the end of the year,for the purpose of making a stock of recycled HCFC.The EPA does not considerthe complete exchange ofusable HCFC with virginHCFC a maintenance orservicing operation and thisview is also taken by theEuropean Commission.

So, who can use recycledHCFC? An end-user can userecycled HCFC on his/herown site and if the end-userhas more than one site, therecycled HCFC can also beused on his/her other sites. A contractor can also userecycled HCFC on the sitewhere he/she carried out therecovery or on any other sitethat he/she is carrying outmaintenance or servicing.Appropriate records shouldbe kept regarding the sourceof the recycled HCFC andalso where it has been used.Also, any equipment that ischarged with recycled orreclaimed HCFC should beproperly labelled with thetype and quantity of gascontained in it.

A recovery cylinder mustbe clearly identifiable, withindelible marking such asrecycled HCFC, recoverycylinder, recoveredrefrigerant only or similar

marking, and should becoloured or partially colouredto clearly differentiate it fromstock refrigerant containers.

F-gasesMost refrigeration and airconditioning equipment isnow running on HFCs or F gases, which are the mainreplacements for HCFCs. F-gases have an impact onglobal warming that isthousands of times strongerthan carbon dioxide. For thisreason, the European F-gasRegulation has introducedtighter controls on their use,with the aim of limiting anyleaks to the atmosphere.

This regulation placesresponsibilities on the ownerand operators of suchequipment to proactivelymonitor their equipment forleaks, to employ contractorswith the appropriatequalifications, to maintain aninventory of equipment, toensure the correct disposalof any waste gases, and tokeep records to demonstratecompliance with therequirements. One of theimportant requirements of the F-gas Regulation is leakchecking and this is alsorequired for equipment withHCFCs. The frequency of the leak checks required

depends on the amount of gas contained in theequipment (see to Table 1).In any case, detailed recordkeeping is essential. Theadded benefit of a goodmaintenance programme,including leak checking, isthe potential for cost savingsthrough more efficientoperation of systems.

QualificationsSpecified trainingrequirements have been setdown for contractors workingwith refrigerant gases.Contractors should currentlyhave City and GuildsCertificate in HandlingRefrigerants Scheme 2078.In addition, all contractorsshould be making plans tobecome qualified to FETACLevel 5 (Specific PurposeCertificate in Handling F-gasRefrigerants 5S0108)standard or City and Guilds(Level 2 Award in F-gasRegulation, No. 2079)standard, by 4 July 2011.More information on thesecourses is available onwww.refrigerationskillnet.ie.The EPA is actively enforcingthe ODS and F-gasRegulations and conductinga programme of inspectionsat end-user and contractorpremises. In addition,guidance is in preparationand will be disseminated toall relevant stakeholders.

More information isavailable from:Environmental ProtectionAgency Resource Use UnitPO Box, 3000, JohnstownCastle Estate, WexfordLoCall: 1890 33 55 99Email: [email protected] Website: www.ozone.ie


Table 1

Leak Testing Frequencies for HCFCs*and HFCsLeak Testing System charge System charge Frequency Normal Hermetically

sealed systemsNone Less than 3 kg Less than 6 kgAnnual 3 kg to 30 kg 6 kg to 30 kg6-monthly** 30 kg to 300 kg 30 kg to 300 kgQuarterly** Greater than Greater than

300 kg 300 kg* The Recast of Regulation 2037/2000 presents moredetailed requirements for leak checking than before** Half this frequency if fitted with automatic leak detection,in the case of HFCs

The Montreal Protocol is seen as effectivebecause it has achieved its aim to haltdepletion of the ozone layer and it hasreceived the backing of every single country in the world.


10

Refrig Feature EPA:Layout 1 07/11/2009 10:23 Page 2

AIR-COOLED LIQUID CHILLERS AND HEAT PUMPS 40-160kW

State-of-the-art integrated design

with a heart forthe environment

Unit A6, Centre Point Business Park, Oak Road, Clondalkin, Dublin 22Tel: 01 - 409 8912; Fax: 01 - 409 8916; email: [email protected]; Web: www.coreac.com

NEW GENERATION

Reduced Energy Costs Optimum Availability Maximun Flexibility Perfect Integration

Core Advert Oct 09:Layout 1 07/11/2009 10:54 Page 1

With over 35 years oftechnical expertise CrossflowAir Conditioning installs,commissions, services andmaintains all types of airconditioning equipment, fromstandard split air conditioningfor single offices/rooms tolarge vrf multi room/officeapplications.

In addition to providingsystem solutions, Crossflowalso offers projectmanagement, technicalinvestigations and reports,and full facilities support 24 hours a day, 365 days of the year.

As such, it is the perfecttrading partner for Hitachi.Together, they have beenresponsible for some of themost prestigious airconditioning and refrigerationprojects in Ireland in recent

years. These include majorinstallations at DeloittesEarlsfort Terraceheadquarters in Dublin and at Euro Medic in Santry, CoDublin. Project manager forDeloitte was Gary Bartley and the equipment was aSumurai RCUE 120AG2chiller, while Kieran Timmons of McKennaEngineering was projectmanager on the Euro Medicproject which features aSamurai RCUE 40AG2 chiller.

Crossflow Director PadraigHanvey says that the qualityof the Hitachi equipment, and the scope of theapplications catered for,perfectly complements theengineering-based solutions it strives to offer its clients.

With the professionalismand experience of our staff

and the high level of attentionwe pay to every detail of ourcustomers requirements,says Padraig, we continuallystrive to find innovativetechnical solutions for thedesign and installation of airconditioning systems, buildingcontrol systems and closecontrol data centretemperature managementsystems. We find that theHitachi range, coupled withthe support services providedfrom its Irish office, helps usrealise this objective.

Critical to this endeavour isthe constant introduction ofcutting-edge products andsystems such as the newSamurai AG2B chiller rangewhich enhances the precisecontrol of outlet watertemperature across allapplications.

Ranging from 180 to450HP, leading features of theAG2B technology include:Increased efficiency TheAG2B has increased itsefficiency thanks to its world-renowned twin, screwcompressor that uses a STAR DELTA start up;

Reduced footprint TheAG2B achieves high coolingcapacity in approximately 9%smaller space than previousmodels thanks to air-side heatexchanger size modificationsand a refrigerant distributionredesign; Noise/energy reductions Impressively low noise levelsare delivered by inverter-driven two-blade fans. Thetwo blades increase air-flowbut lower power output, allowingfor additional energy savings; User-friendly and safety The AG2B incorporates aneasy-to-use touch LCD panel display for effectiveservicing and maintenance.

In conclusion, PadraigHanvey says: Weredelighted with this latestaddition to the HitachiSamurai range of chillers. We are also confident that itwill prove critical in helping us secure further prestigiousprojects into the future.Contact: Fergus Daly, Hitachi Europe (Ireland). Tel: 01 216 4406; email:[email protected]


HITACHI

Hitachi and Crossflowpartnership deliverssystem excellence

12 Left: The Samurai RCUE 120AG2 chiller installed at Deloittes Earlsfort Terrace headquarters; Centre: The new AG2b Chiller from Hitachi; Right: The RCUE 40AG2 chiller installed at Euro Medics premises in Santry, Dublin.


Refrig Feature Hitachi:Layout 1 06/11/2009 15:08 Page 1

Design can greatly influenceenergy efficiency and that iswhy Carrier designs anddevelops completelyintegrated climate controlsystems and equipment forvarious applications. Fromchillers and heat pumps to airhandling units, terminals,control and monitoringsolutions, Carrier hasinfinitely-variable productsand systems which can betailored to specific needs.

Carrier has been at theforefront of climate controlsystems for more than 100years and that vastexperience and expertise isvery much evident in the newAquaSnap range of air-cooledliquid chillers and heat pumps(40kW to 160kW).

The Aquasnap air-cooledchillers are delivered to sitefully assembled, tested,charged and all set tofacilitate installation. With theintegrated hydronic module,there is no need to plan foradditional space to install thewater pump, valves andhydronic accessories. Justbolt the unit down, connect itup and it is ready to go.Maintenance is equallysimple, saving time andenergy.

Carrier offers the option ofinstalling an inverter on thewater pump to adapt the flowto the buildings demand. Theunit measures the watertemperature and pressure,

enabling the end-user monitorand continuously optimiseenergy consumption.

Reliability was top priority inthe design of the Aquasnapchiller, which passed a severevibration test that reflects themost extreme transportationconditions. The chillersrefrigerant circuit is completelysealed, minimising the risk ofleakage. Nearly all refrigerantpipes have brazed connectionsthat are far more secure thanmechanical connections.

The electronic expansionvalve ensures that the unitoperates with the idealrefrigerant flow and that itdelivers optimum performance,even in extreme conditions.

The Pro-Dialog+ controlsystem constantly checksand analyses all compressoroperating parameters, suchas pressure, temperature and

number of start-ups. Moreover, AquaSnap units

use puron refrigerant R-410Awith zero ozone depletion thatis more environmentallysound than other refrigerants.The new air-cooled chillersrequire a lower refrigerantcharge than theirpredecessors. The units areEurovent-certified Class C,consume less energy andgenerate less C0 2 emissionsthan the previous generation.The Carrier factory where theunits are manufactured is ISO14001- certified and uses onlygreen electricity.

The AquaSnap air-cooledchiller performs reliably withina wide operating range,regardless of season orclimate and even in extreme

conditions (-20C up to+48C). Coil defrost cyclestake place only whenabsolutely required. The unitis suitable for floor cooling/heating applications and,thanks to its low profile lessthan 1.33 m in height andsmall footprint, it can beinstalled virtually anywhere.

The hydronic module withsingle or dual pump andexpansion tank is completelyintegrated. This makesinstallation faster to completeand reflects the chillersflexibility. The sophisticatedpro-dialog+ digital controlsystem allows preciseadjustments to all chillercomponents in order tomaximise energy savings and obtain ideal comfortconditions at all times.

With its high-efficiencyscroll compressor and low-noise shrouded axial fan,AquaSnap keeps noise to aminimum. It can be easilyintegrated into existingBuilding ManagementSystems (BMS) while control options are compatiblewith the most commoncommunication protocolssuch as JBUS, BACnet and LON.

Contact: Austin McDermott,Core Air Conditioning. Tel: 01 409 8912; email: [email protected]


CORE AIR CONDITIONING

New generationintegrated designCarrier AquaSnap

New generation integrated design Carrier AquaSnap.


13

Refrig Feature Core:Layout 1 06/11/2009 15:14 Page 1

Designed as a new, energyefficient R410A single or twinsplit system, the ToshibaSuper Digital Inverter 4 from GT Phelan is also theperfect replacement forexisting R22 and R407Csystems. Able to replace both indoor and outdoor unitswhile utilising the existingpipework (provided it meetscurrent legislation regardingthe pressure rating of R410A) the result is a quicker, cheaper, moreenvironmentally-responsibleinstallation.

The new Super DigitalInverter Series 4 sets newstandards for industry energyperformance. The units areequipped with the new eco-driving twin-rotarycompressors, where themagnetic action minimisesthe rotor friction loss. Thecompressors can work at verylow speed, down to 10 r/s,providing excellent energy

performances in both coolingand heating.

The seasonal and the rated efficiencies are thehighest in the industry forcapacities from 10 to 12.5 kWwhile the air managementsystem has also beenimproved high efficiency fanmotors, larger fans and new

fan grille design all contribute to the exceptionalenergy performance. Pipingand operating limits have also been improved. The new system can work atextremely low temperatures,in cooling and heating. Theextended pipe length is nowup to 75m.

Key features and benefitsHighest EER/COP values in the industry All systems are A-rated in cooling and heatingoperation. Thanks to its neweco-driving compressors, thenew systems provide excellentseasonal energy performance,thus saving up to 70% onannual energy costs comparedto fixed speed systems.Eco-driving twin-rotary compressorsThe structure and magneticaction of the new eco-drivingtwin-rotary compressorsprovide excellent energyperformance at full load aswell as in partial loadconditions. Longer pipe runs Longer pipe runs of up to 75mlength and 30m elevation forincreased installation flexibility. Broader operating rangeThe wide operating rangegoes down to -15C in coolingmode and down to -20C inheating mode. High static fan operationHigh static fan operation ispossible utilising a dip switchin the outdoor unit enablingthe units to be installed in aplant room.Contact: Derek Phelan, GTPhelan. Tel: 01 286 4377;email: [email protected]


GT PHELAN

Toshiba energyefficient R410ASuper Digital Inverter

14

(also the perfect solution for R22 andR407C replacement)

The Super Digital Inverter 4 isable to replace both indoor andoutdoor units while utilising theexisting pipework.

The Super Digital Inverter 4energy efficient R410A single ortwin split system.

The new 4 series Super Digital Inverter from Toshiba is equipped withnew eco-driving twin-rotary compressors.


Refrig Feature Phelan:Layout 1 06/11/2009 15:16 Page 1

Background The last step in eliminatingozone-depleting substanceswas brought into force inOctober 2000 with theintroduction of the ECRegulation number2037/2000. The regulationbans the use and sale ofvirgin hydrochlorofluoro -carbons (HCFCs) as of the 1st of January 2010.

No virgin HCFCs can be sold or used for serviceafter the deadline date.Recycled or reclaimedproduct can only be usedfor servicing purposes upuntil December 2014.

The most common HCFCstill in use, and the one that is causing the mostconcern, is R22 but the ban also includes blendscontaining R22 such asR401A, R402A, R408A,R409A, R412A, and R509.At the moment there are anestimated 130,000 tonnesof HCFCs in more thanseven million installationsacross the EU.

If they havent done soalready, RAC end-usersshould be working with theirsuppliers to identify whichof their plant, if any, usesHCFCs, and to take theappropriate actionimmediately.

Planning for Phase OutThere are three steps totake when planning forphase out:

Step 1: Identify allrefrigeration and air-conditioning plant withHCFCs

Step 2: Collect detailedinformation about eachindividual piece of plantThis will include refrigeranttype and quantity,lubricating oil, servicehistory (including details of top-up quantities andfrequency) age of thesystem, cooling loaddetails, plant design andplant performance,

Step 3: Evaluate Phase-Out OptionsUsing the informationcollected you can begin toassess different options.Depending on theircircumstances, differentsolutions will be appropriatefor different companies.

Option A: Replace the plantThis option is likely toinvolve the greatest initialoutlay and to take longestto implement so it requirescareful planning. However,it affords the buyer theopportunity to avail of the


Ban on virgin-HCFCsis almost upon us

The Institute of Refrigeration Irelandis calling for urgent action by end-users of refrigeration and airconditioning to make sure they areprepared for R22 phase-out deadline. With less than two months to go tothe ban on both the use and sale ofvirgin HCFCs in Europe, it seemsthat a large number of refrigerationand air conditioning end-userscontinue to have their heads in thesand. Despite repeated warningsfrom the RAC sector, many end-users have yet to take any concretesteps to prepare for the ban.

In the following article,Seamus Kerr, President of the Institute ofRefrigeration Ireland,

outlines the optionsavailable to owners

of RAC plantoperating with

HCFCrefrigerants

and urgesimmediate action.

15


Refrig Feature Kerr:Layout 1 07/11/2009 14:55 Page 1

newest technologies andimprovements in systemdesign, thus leading tohigher energy efficiencyand a far greater expectedplant lifetime (20 to 30years). It is also anopportunity to consider the suitability of alternativerefrigerants such as CO2and ammonia.

Option B: Use a differentrefrigerantWhere possible, somecompanies may elect tomodify their plants to use anew refrigerant. This optionshould cost less and bequicker to implement than a completely new plant. An example of a low GWPretrofit refrigerant would beR407A which has beenused in Ireland for over 20years. Using R407A mightrequire an oil change but noexpansion valve change.

R404A has been used asa R22 replacement in many

cases but this will requirean expansion valve changeand possibly an oil change.R407C has been usedsuccessfully as a retrofitrefrigerant in some air-conditioning plant. In thiscase, an oil change will berequired and possibly anexpansion valve change.There are also new drop-in refrigerants such asR422D which can be usedwithout changing the oil or expansion valve in most cases.

Replacing the refrigerantwont be an option in allcases and it hasimplications for plantperformance, reliability andenergy efficiency, but withthe right expert advice, itcan be an effective solution.

However, be very awarethat there are many pitfallsand take advice regardinganything special that eachplant type might require drop-ins do NOT work in many cases.

Option C: Rely exclusivelyon recycled HCFCsAs it stands, recycled andreclaimed product can stillbe used until the December2014 deadline. Non-virginHCFCs can be used to top-up systems in the event ofrefrigerant leaks. It wouldappear that a large numberof end-users are entirelyreliant on this option, eitherthrough inaction or in thebelief that it is the mostcost-effective solution.However, the latter is

only likely to be the case in circumstances where the equipment is very nearthe end of its life and is not business-critical. In any event, this option canonly be temporary and one of the other solutionswill still have to beimplemented before the2014 deadline. End-usersshould be aware that thereis no guarantee thatsufficient recycled HCFCswill be available after the1st of January 2010. Theprice of recycled R22 isalready higher than virginR22 and is expected tocontinue to climb asdemand outstrips supply.Also there is no guaranteethat the December 2014deadline wont be movedforward. So there are veryclear risks associated withthis option.

Time is running out!Some end-users may betempted to defer anydecisions on this until alater date. This is not agood idea. You couldalready be making ill-informed and expensivedecisions. If you havesystems operating withHCFCs, and you dont have a HCFC Phase-OutPlan in place already, youshould take actionimmediately. Work withyour RAC contractor to putin place the appropriatesolutions for your business.Time is running out!


Engineers must be qualified to handle refrigerants The Institute of Refrigeration Ireland has warned refrigeration and air conditioningconsultants and end-users that they have a legal responsibility to make sure that theengineers working on their RAC plant are qualified to do so. This includes in-houseengineers and RAC contractors.

In the case of HCFC refrigerants, Statutory Instrument No. 281of 2006 Control ofSubstances that Deplete the Ozone Layer Regulations 2006, requires that all personnelhandling HCFC refrigerants are holders of the City and Guilds 2078 Refrigerant HandlingCertificate. Owners of RAC plant should ask to see a copy of these certificates.

In the case of HFC refrigerants, the FGas Regulations introduce a new minimumstandard of competence which requires further training and certification. City and Guilds2078 Refrigerant Handling Certificates will suffice as interim certification until July 2011 butby then, everyone working with HFC refrigerants will have to have the new FGasqualifications.

Refrigeration Skillnet, the training network for the RAC sector, has recently launched aseries of programmes leading to the new FGas qualifications and a number of RACcontractors have obtained the new qualifications already.

See www.refrigerationskillnet.ie for more details.

Work with your RAC contractor to put inplace the appropriate solutions for yourbusiness


16

Refrig Feature Kerr:Layout 1 07/11/2009 14:59 Page 2

Carel Ireland was the sponor of this years Refrigeration &Air Conditioning Apprentice ofthe Year competition organised byDIT in Bolton St earlier this month as part of the National Skills Competition(NSC).

The competition is based on twosections Phase 4 and Phase 6 and this year the standard wasparticularly high. The eventual winner,Parttick Egan, displayed exceptionalskill levels and deserves great praisefor emerging triumphant from such ahigh-achieving group of students.

While I have long been associatedwith the refrigeration and airconditioning apprentice of the yearprogramme in DIT, says DaveKillalea of Carel Ireland, this is thefirst time that we as a company havesponsored the event.

Over the years I have come toexpect high levels of craftsmanship

but I can honestly say that this yearthe performance of the students wasquite extraordinary. Obviously, theindividuals concerned deserve fullcredit for this but all are unanimous inacknowledging the vast input of their tutors at DIT. So, mycongratulations to one and all.

BSNews October/November 2009

Student Awards

Above: John Smartt DoES ChiefAdvising Examiner, Plumbing, pictured

with Patrick, Egan DIT Refrigeration&Air-Conditioning Apprentice of the

Year; Colin Brennan, holding his NSCparticipation plaque; Tony O'Brien, DIT

Lecturer in Refrigeration; and Seamus Murran, DIT

Head of Department Construction Skills.

Below: Peter Harding, Botanic Building Supplies

(sponsor), pictured with James Cox, 2009 National Skills Competition winner;

and John Smarte, DoES Chief Advising Examiner,

Plumbing.

Carel Sponsors Apprentice of the Year

Patrick Egan, DITRefrigeration/Air-ConditioningApprentice of the Year2009, receiving histrophy from DaveKillalea, ManagingDirector, Carel Ireland, whosponsored the event.

17

Apprentice:Layout 1 06/11/2009 14:56 Page 1


In an age where global brands and large multi-national corporations dominatemany business sectors, smaller companies have to offer something different orunique to compete. As separate entities Gasco Ireland and MSS BuildingServices have always done so but, now that they have formed a strategicalliance, they are set to dominate the market sectors they serve.

GASCO IRELAND & MSS BUILDING SERVICES ADVERTISEMENT FEATURE

Traditionally, Gasco specialised in the air conditioning/refrigerationcomponents sector, while MSS served the mechanical, electrical and sprinklerindustries. Now that they have joined forces, both will continue to trade fromtheir existing premises but customers can order product across the combined portfoliofrom either branch. In addition, nationwide service has been further enhanced with therecent opening of a Belfast Branch.

Gasco Ireland was originally part of the international Gasco group but is now awholly-owned, independent, Irish operation. Equally so, in an earlier guise MSS was

once part of a major multi-national but it too is now totally independent. Both have traded with one another for many years, have the same core business philosophy, and servemany of the same customers.

More than that, the principals involved Sean Stenson, Mark Kiely, Billy McDonald and Darren Kiely

have extensive industry experience representing almost 75 years between them.

By combining their collective strengths they now provide big-company benefits but

in a very direct, hands-on, personalised manner.

18

Standing: Mark Kiely and Darren Kiely;Seated: Billy McDonald and SeanStenson.

Combined strengths meanbetter customer service

Gasco:Layout 1 11/11/2009 15:27 Page 1


19

Brands represented Given that quality lies at the heart ofthe Gasco and MSS service, a primerequirement is that the products andrelated accessories offered are of anequally-high standard. Hence theportfolio of world-renowned, market-leading brands. These have beencarefully selected to satisfy the needsof the Irish market and comprisecomplementary ranges which cater forall market segments. They include: ACC/Electrolux Compressors Advanced Chemicals Anvil (Gruvlok) Armacell Carel Controls Climalife Danfoss Elco Erico Caddy Industrial Hangers Ltd ITW (Spit) Little Giant Metstrut Mupro Sauermann Pumps Univap Coolers Yellow Jacket

Gasco Ireland Ltd MSS Building Services Ltd Gasco Ireland (NI) LtdUnit 2 Broomhill Business Park Unit 6 & 7 Ballymount Cross Business Park Unit 1 Lislea Drive, Lisburn RoadBroomhill Road, Tallaght, Dublin 24 Ballymount, Dublin 24 Belfast BT9 7JGTel: 01 462 7311 Fax: 01 462 7315 Tel: 01 429 9875 Fax: 01 429 9878 Tel: 048 9068 7970 Fax: 048 9068 7936email: [email protected] email: [email protected] email: [email protected]

www.gascoireland.com www.mssltd.ie

Solutions providers Given the complex nature of the industries served and especiallythe impact of legislative directives and compliance requirements technical advice and support is critical.

Experienced staff are constantly on hand to discuss projects andengage with customers to help them devise the most appropriate andcost-effective solution. All are highly-qualified and can provide supportwith everything from product selection through to system design.

Open all hoursExtended opening hours, ex-stock availability and same day (Dublin)or next day (nationwide) delivery are critical strengths. MSS is openfrom 6.30am to 5pm, Monday through to Thursday, and 6.30am to 3pmon Fridays. Meanwhile, Gasco is open from 8am to 5pm, Monday toFriday, and 9am to 12pm on Saturdays. A 24-hour helpline alsooperates.

External Sales Team Ian Dennis with Des Smith and Steven McDonald.

Technical advice with a cuppa!Apart from technical support and advice,the warmth of the welcome extended atthe trade counter is equally important.Tea, coffee, soup, biscuits etc areconstantly on tap, not to mention the funand banter. It is all about personal contact,understanding customers needs, andmeeting that need in a professional, yetfriendly, manner.

Belfast Branch Ryan Taylor and Billy Stockton.

Gasco:Layout 1 11/11/2009 15:28 Page 2

Under the ACA scheme, whenmoney is spent on eligible energy-efficient capital equipment, thecompany can deduct the full costof this equipment from its profits inthe year of purchase.

This contrasts with the existingCapital Allowances tax structurewhereby companies can onlydeduct the cost of such equipmentfrom their profits proportionallyover a period of eight years.

Moreover, the saving made is ontop of the energy savings that thecompany will make throughinvesting in energy-efficientequipment.

If a company does not make aprofit in the year of purchase, the

capital allowance can be carried forward and offset against profits in

following years. The ACA benefits all companies

liable for corporation tax by: Reducing tax liabilities; Increasing cash flow; Reducing energy costs in a

sustained and ongoing basis.

What equipment qualifies The ACA scheme covers alleligible energy-efficient equipmentdetailed on the ACA specified listof eligible products maintained bySustainable Energy Ireland (SEI).It now includes seven categoriesof equipment, and in total 29different types of technologies.

Products which suppliers wishincluded on the list must meetdefined product certification,testing and performance criteria.This provides assurance to usersof the scheme that, as well aspurchasing equipment in a tax-efficient and cost-effective manner,the equipment being purchased isamong the most energy-efficientavailable.

SEI has recently updated the listof eligible products and it is nowavailable to view on SEIs ACAwebsite, www.sei.ie/aca.

Manufacturers or supplierswishing to submit their productsfor inclusion on the ACA specifiedlist should visit www.sei.ie/aca toregister their details and find outhow to submit eligible products.How to claim the ACA?Claiming the ACA is simple as thestandard annual company taxreturn procedure used to claimstandard Capital Allowances is also the method used to claimthe ACA.

A new way to get moneyback from the tax man!


ACA Tax Incentive

Businesses looking to reduce energy costs byinvesting in energy-efficient equipment can nowdoubly benefit through a new tax incentive schemecalled Accelerated Capital Allowances (ACA).

20

Sample Case Study 1 ICTsavings in the financial sectorA financial services company with an annual electricity spend of over625,000 identified potential energysavings through ACA eligible serverupgrades and utility efficiencyimprovements.

By utilising the most energy efficientblade servers and server virtualisationin conjunction with optimisation of thesupply of cooling and utilities, a 19.5%reduction in site energy consumptionwas achieved. Annual savings of122,000 were achieved for aninvestment cost of 243,880 resultingin an average payback of 2 years.

As ACA eligible equipment waspurchased to achieve these energysavings additional tax savings andcash flow increases were achieved inthe year of purchase as detailed in thetable below.

W/o ACA With ACAInvestment cost 243,880 243,880

Deductible capital 30,485 243,880equipment costs in (1/8) (8/8)year 1

Tax saved in year 13,811 30,485

With the ACA, an additional26,674 was available to the companyin the year of purchase.

SEI edit:Layout 1 06/11/2009 14:52 Page 1

Alpha CD50S & CD70SAlpha Standard

Features Overview

Easy Accessible PartsSpecifically designed for larger outputrequirements, the CD50S is suitablefor central heating loads of between10kW and 53.8kW and the CD70S forcentral heating loads of between18.1kW and 72.8kW. Both arecapable of being installed as a singleunit or in simple modular formationsfor even bigger outputs.

3 year guarantee;

Seasonality valve;

Designed in filling loop;

Stainless steel heat exchanger;

Automatic bypass;

Anticycling device;

Fully modulating low NOx burner;

Daily pump kick;

Frost thermostat;

Available in both LPG & natural gas.

Peamount Business Centre, Newcastle, Co Dublin Tel: 01 - 610 9275 Fax: 01 - 621 2939City East Business Park, Ballybrit, Co Galway Tel: 091 - 380 038 Fax: 091 - 380 039

Alpha Telescopic Flue Terminal

Alpha Light Comm A4 AD:Alpha Light Comm A4 AD 07/11/2009 14:48 Page 1

Origen Energy Ltd is thenewest company within theHevac Group. It wasestablished earlier this year to provide a dedicated serviceto its renewable energycustomers while, at the same time, utilising the vastresources of sister companies Hevac, Polytherm and TubeCompany of Ireland.

In a very short space of timeOrigen Energy has emergedas one of Ireland's leadingrenewable energy and districtheating specialists. It designsand supplies fully-engineeredrenewable energy solutionsfor the residential, commercialand industrial sectors, and canalso provide additional supportby way of in-house designengineers, CAD techniciansand system specialists.

The focus of Origen Energyis to provide quality solutionsthat lower energy costs, whileoffering maximum efficiencyand comfort. It ensures bothdomestic and commercial

projects are as energyefficient as possible, and thatthey comply with all statutoryenergy regulations, therebyguaranteeing a reducedcarbon footprint.

Mixed developmentsnormally consist of a shelland core apartment-typebuilding with retail units atground level. Very often they

also contain crches andcommunity centres. OrigenEnergy provides a completedesign service for these typesof developments, togetherwith energy consumptionanalysis and commercial BER ratings.

In order to meet therequirements of Part L of theBuilding Regulations, thedeveloper needs toshow that renewableenergy constitutes10KW hours per sq mper year within thedevelopment. District heatingis an ideal way to achieve thisby providing a central energy

centre with biomass heatingand an energy transmissionnetwork linked to all units,both commercial andresidential. These in turn canbe individually-metered andmonitored, and billedaccording to the energy they use.

There are severaladvantages to providing thisform of centralised heat,namely the elimination of gaspipe lines and gas riserswithin the individual apartmentblocks, and the elimination offluing arrangements fromeach apartment.

When it comes to sourcingcommercial heating products such as boilers (includingbiomass), controls, pipeworkand pipe fittings, valves,pumps and other relatedproducts Origen has noequal, irrespective of theapplication, fuel or specificproject requirement. Thecomposition of the renewableproduct portfolio is carefullystructured to ensure that allneeds can be satisfied withhigh-quality, brand-leadingproducts from some of the worlds foremostmanufacturers.

Package boiler houses,complete district heating systems, cast iron orsteel boilers,

solar panels, heat pumps,burners, air heaters, waterheaters, pumps, boosters,radiators, gas detection, heatmetering and billing, fluesupply and flue installationare just a selection from theproduct portfolio of thecommercial and industrialapplications.

Capacities range from45kW upwards and fuel typescatered for include dual-fuel,natural gas, LPG, light andheavy oil, biomass and biofuel.Origen offers technicalassistance with the sizing ofpumps, boiler selection, thedistribution pipework selection,flue sizing installation, systemexpansion tanks and also thecontrols associated with thewhole installation.

In addition to specificationconsultation at an early stagein the project, Origen offersongoing assistancethroughout all the stages ofthe project, right from productidentification and selectionthrough to installation andfinal commission.

Contact: Peter Mulvihill,Joe Raftery or PaulDevereux, Origen Energy. Tel: 01 419 1940; Fax: 01 419 1980;email: [email protected]


Product Review: Commercial Boilers

ORIGEN ENERGY

Delivering engineeredrenewable solutions

The Origen Team Joe Raftery, Paul Devereux, and Peter Mulvihill.

22

Feature Origen:Layout 1 10/11/2009 08:10 Page 1

Working towards a cleaner future

MAXXfloThis unique range of condensing water heaters from Andrews offers a revolutionary concept in

self contained, storage water heating.

Paramount twoA range of technically advanced wall hung condensing boilers.Lightweight, ultra low noise, combining the latest heatexchanger technology and state of the art control systems.

Established values.Leading edge technology.

www.andrewswaterheaters.co.ukwww.pottertoncommercial.co.uk

The UKs No1

Potterton Myson (Irl) LimitedUnit 7, Whitestown Business Park,Tallaght, Dublin 24, IrelandEmail: [email protected]

Sales:

01-459 0870Fax:

01-459 0880

BaxiCom_BSNews_Irl_Nov_Para+MAX 27/10/09 1:18 pm Page 1

Potterton Commercial, partof the Baxi CommercialDivision within the BaxiGroup, is one of the longest-established names in theindustry. Today, these boilerspecialists continue to pioneerthe way in development andproduction of high-efficiencycommercial boilers, as well asLZC (low to zero carbon)solutions, keeping ahead ofnew legislation.

Offering these and othergroup heating and hot waterproducts to the Irish marketas a one stop shop facility is Potterton Myson Ireland(PMI), a wholly-ownedsubsidiary of Baxi Group. TheGroups leading-edge role inthis field is demonstrated bytwo new products which havejust come on stream the

Eurocondense three andLogoCondense.

Eurocondense ThreeThe trusted EurocondenseTwo range has beencompletely transformed and is now presented asEurocondense Three.Aesthetically improved, it issmaller, lighter and has areduced footprint. In addition,all connections are on the topfor greater siting options andease of installation. Thiscascade boiler offers a wider range of hydraulicaccessories as well as aroom-sealed option. Theinternal layout has beencompletely redesigned toaccommodate

a single burner assembly,positioned at the front, whichslides out for easy servicing.The new EurocondenseThree is available in outputsfrom 123 to 305kW.

LogoCondenseHailed as an exciting stepforward in the oil heatingsector, LogoCondense withcarbo condense technology brings condensingoperation to this high output,stainless steel, pressure-jetoil or dual fuel boiler range.The carbon heat exchanger,vital for oil boilers to operatein condensing mode, allowsheat recovery from the boilerflue gases, achieving higherefficiencies withoutdegradation of the heatexchanger by acidic by-products of oil.

Condensing gas-firedboilersThe Paramount Two range of wall-hung, high-efficiency,condensing boilersincorporates the provenaluminium/silicon alloy heatexchanger, which comes withan industry-leading lifetimeguarantee*. This boilerdelivers advanced ultra-lowNOx performance of less than20mg/kWh, exceeding Class 5,and up to 109% net energyefficiency. Controlled by theuser-friendly IntegratedSystem Regulator (ISR)control system, Paramounttwo is available in six outputsfrom 30 to 115kW.

Potterton CommercialsSirius FS and Sirius WH are ranges of technicallysophisticated floor standingand wall-hung stainless steelcondensing boilers.

Lightweight, low-noise andeasy-to-install and service,Sirius FS and Sirius WH bothoffer exceptional energyefficiency, up to 107% net,and advanced ultra-low NOxperformance, exceedingClass 5.

Oil and pressure jet gasand oil boilersThe NXR2 is a floor-standingcast iron boiler with fully-matched oil and gas burners.It comes complete withintegrated control panel while the heat exchangercarries a PottertonCommercial lifetimeguarantee*. Providingoptimum efficiency at 93% netin standard mode, the NXR2is also compatible with dualfuel burners that allow themto be used with liquid biofuels,thereby offering a simple lowcarbon option. *Terms and conditions apply

Contact: Potterton MysonIreland. Tel: 01 459 0870;email: [email protected]; www.potterton-myson.ie.



POTTERTON MYSON

PottertonCommercial extendsboiler output

Eurocondense Three highefficiency condensing boiler.from Potterton.

The LogoCondense from Potterton featuring carbo condensetechnology.24

Feature Pott Myson:Layout 1 06/11/2009 15:22 Page 1

a force from nature

E [email protected]

Origen Energy Limited,

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8QLW/)XUU\3DUN,QGXVWULDO(VWDWH6DQWU\'XEOLQ7F

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Herz Biomass Boiler

Solarmax Solar Panel

Origen Energy Limited is one of Irelands leading renewable energy and district heating specialists. We operate in ofces and warehouse facilities in Dublin and Cork comprising over 10,000 square meters of space. We design and supply fully engineered renewable energy solutions to the residential, commercial and industrial sectors and can offer in house specialists including design engineers, CAD technicians and system specialists.

The focus of Origen Energy Limited is to provide quality solutions that lower energy costs, whilst offering maximum efciency and comfort . We ensure both domestic and commercial projects are as energy efcient as possible and comply with all necessary energy regulations, guaranteeing a reduced carbon footprint.

Origen Energy Limited are part of the Hevac Group which comprises Hevac Limited, Tube Company of Ireland Limited and Polytherm Heating Systems Limited. Origen represents the latest strategic move in our 35 year market experience and has the full backing and support of all group companies as it endeavors to become the market leader in its eld.

Origen ServicesExpert customer service and technical supportsComprehensive training on all our productssDesign and full CAD services

District HeatingConsultancy and technical assistance for design and selection of plant and network.s s Completed system tailoring of your district heating scheme matching clients specic requirement. Number one supplier for the complete district heating system from design, sheat generation and transmission pipework to nal metering and billing of the energy / heat usage of the end-user.

Partners with

Origen SystemsSolar Thermal HeatingsDistrict HeatingsBiomass HeatingsGeothermal HeatingsAir Source Heatings

Heat Recovery VentilationsUnderoor HeatingsCondensing Oil / GassElectricity GenerationsSolar / Gas Combi Systemss

Origen Qk:Layout 1 09/11/2009 09:00 Page 1

Alpha has been successfullysupplying the heating industryfor 40 years, during which timeis has gained a reputation fordeveloping innovative, high-performing, boilers which are manufactured to exactingquality-control standards.

The benefits of the extensiveAlpha range are nowavailable from Alpha ThermIreland who, since beingappointed distributor forIreland a few years ago, have captured a significantmarket share.

With global warming andrising energy prices amongtodays most pressing issues,

says Declan Kissane of AlphaTherm Ireland, Alpha hasdeveloped a wide range ofproducts which keep energyconsumption, carbonemissions and energy bills to an absolute minimum. This has been achieved byapplying innovative thinkingand new and existingtechnologies to meet thechallenge presented.

These strengths areperfectly represented in theCD50S, CD70S, CD90S andthe CD110S wall-mounted,SEDBUK Band A ratedcondensing, fan-assisted,system boilers. They provideheating-only for sealed centralheating systems, or opensystems, if required.

Specifically designed forlarger output requirements,the CD50S is suitable forcentral heating loads ofbetween 10kW and 53.8kW;the CD70S between 18.1kWand 72.8kW; the CD90Sbetween 23kW and 90kW;and the CD110S between30kW and 110kW. All modelscome with a three-year Alphano quibble guarantee.

While these boilers aresupplied with type B23 flueconfiguration (open chamberand forced draught) to allowfor flexible siting, theconfiguration can be changedto type C (room sealed) with

the use of a special flueadaptor kit.

All can be supplied for usewith natural gas or LPG andare capable of being installedas a single unit or in simple modular formationsfor even bigger outputs.

Key features and benefitsare as follows:

Three-year guarantee; Suitable for single-unit or

cascade installations; High-grade stainless

steel heat exchanger; Fully modulating low

NOx burner;

Pre-wired, two-metre, flying mains lead;

Open or concentric push-fit flue systems;

Built-in plume management;

Easy access for servicing; Built-in commissioning

and fault finding.Contact: Declan Kissane,

Alpha Therm Ireland (Dublin Office). Tel: 01 - 610 9275; Peter Lynskey, Alpha ThermIreland (Galway Office). Tel: 091 - 380 038; email: [email protected]: www.alpha-boilers.com



ALPHA THERM IRELAND

Alpha keeps carbonemissions andenergy consumptionto a minimum

Cut-away showing the key components and full product specificationof the new Alpha units now available from Alpha Therm Ireland.

Among the latest introductionsfrom Alpha is the CD50S wall-mounted, SEDBUK Band A ratedcondensing, fan-assisted,system boiler.

26

Feature Alpha:Layout 1 06/11/2009 15:31 Page 1

Presidents OutingSponsored by RSL Ireland and Murco Detection Solutions, the Presidents outing at Adare Manor was blessed with fantasticweather though some were heard to remark that the scoring was notso hot! The course was in excellent condition while the craic during the day,and especially later in the evening, made for a most enjoyable occasion.

President Vincent Barrett presented his prize to overall winner MattButler, while Seamus Kerr (RSL) and Lorcan Maher (Murco) were on handto assist and make the other presentations.

Full list of winners were as follows: Class 1First: Johnny Lynagh, H15, 30pts; Second: Dave Kirwan , H15, 26pts.Class 2First: Pat Lowry, H17, 28pts; Second: Barry McCarville, H16, 28pts.Front 9: Vincent Barrett, H14; Back 9: Paul O Sullivan H13VisitorsFirst: Michael Halford, H21, 33pts; Second: John Ryan, H14, 25pts. Longest Drive: Dave Kirwan; Nearest the Pin: Dave Kirwan

European Club The last RACGS outing of the year was held in the European Club andsponsored by Refrigeration Skillnet. Playing conditions were very tough andnobody came home with the same ball that they started with!

Nonetheless, it was a fitting finale to the years programme with BarryMcCarville, representing Refrigeration Skillnet, on hand to present the prizes.

Overall winner was Billy Queally, H16, 29pts, while the placings and scoresfor the remainder of the field were as follows:Second: Ger Darcy, H11, 27pts;Third: Mick Clancy, H12, 26pts;Fourth: Joe Warren, H12, 26pts;Fifth: Michael Morrissey, H7, 26pts;Sixth: Matt Butler, H8, 25pts;Seventh: Stephen Mahon, H6, 25pts;Eighth: Dave Kirwan, H15, 24pts;Ninth: Liam Hoctor, H7, 23pts;Tenth: John Ryan, H15, 23pts.VisitorsFirst: Jim Short, H10, 29pts;Second: Richard Seaver, H18, 27pts


R A C G S

Above: Joe Warren receivinghis Golfer of the Year trophyfrom Fergus Daly of HitachiIreland.

Left: Barry McCarvillepresenting Billy Quelly with the overall winners prize.

Warren WinsGolfer of YearAs befitting the intense competitionthroughout the year, the winner of the HitachiIreland-sponsored RACGS Golfer of theYear was only decided at the final outing at the European Club.

It was a closely-fought battle between the top four golfers in contention, and it wasappropriate that they played together in thelast four-ball of the day.

Johnny Lynagh had a one point advantagegoing into the last round but his competitionhad other ideas. The day was wild andwindy, just the sort of conditions to favour alinks player, and so it came to pass with JoeWarren taking the final honours by a singlepoint from JohnnyLynagh.

Fergus Daly fromsponsor HitachiIreland was on handto witness the dramaover the last fewholes. He presentedJoe with a state-of-the-art Hitachicamera, in additionto the perpetualtrophy which has been awarded to the bestgolfer of the yearsince 1984.

27

Racgs Oct:Layout 1 12/11/2009 08:34 Page 1

Over 400 trades people fromIreland joined 600 others of various nationalities tocomplete 100 new houses for SouthAfrica's poorest families in thetownship of Wallacedene in CapeTown. They worked on the projectalongside local artisans who arecurrently undergoingskills training with thecharity.

The Niall MellonTownship Trustoperates a year-round housingbuilding programmefor impoverishedfamilies living in thetownships of SouthAfrica and has built 12,000 housessince its inception in 2002. Eachyear it organises a number ofBuilding Blitzes comprised ofvolunteers who raise funds to travelto South Africa to build houses forfamilies in the townships.

Volunteers on the variousprojects work with local peoplefrom the township who arecurrently training on the charity'sSkills Training Programme.Through this programme thecharity helps address the issue ofunemployment in South Africa byproviding local artisans with bothtraining and employment.

Our trades people, Irishvolunteers and South Africanworkers, are crucial to ourcontinued success, says NiallMellon, founder of the charity.Our volunteers not only help us tomaintain the high quality of thehouses being built, but also to

provide the funding required forour housing projects and our Skills Training Programme. This is aimed at training local peoplefrom the townships in the art ofmasonry, carpentry, painting,plumbing and plastering.

Our Skills DevelopmentProgramme provides for asustainable future for itsparticipants through a combinationof physical and life skills trainingthat run simultaneously. Issuessuch as personal health (with aspecific focus on HIV and AIDS),worker and employer relations,budgeting, finance and

entrepreneurship are alsocovered.

Ultimately, the focus is onuplifting the community andfighting poverty. Through ourcombined programmes theworkplace becomes an activelearning environment that provides

employees with theopportunities toacquire new skillsand gain workexperience,concludes Mellon.

For the skilledIrish volunteers andthe South Africanartisans, thispartner ship provides

for a mutually beneficialexperience for everyone involved.Looking to 2010, the Niall MellonTownship Trust is now seekingvolunteers from Ireland who, giventhe downturn in the industry, arewilling to use the additional freetime they may have to participatein next years programme.

If you are interested involunteering for the Niall MellonTownship Trust next Building Blitzin 2010, you can download anapplication form from the websiteat www.nmtownshiptrust.com.Alternatively, call 01 494 8200for details.

Niall Mellon Trust seeksvolunteers for 2010


Worker Appeal

The Niall Mellon Township Trust is looking for volunteers for 2010,following the success of its latest Building Blitz to South Africa in the second week of November.

28

Niall Mellon:Layout 1 12/11/2009 08:32 Page 1

Sanyo back to the future


Our mission is to work the length and breadth of the country to support ourexisting dealers, and to engage with new dealers. Its all about being pro-activeright now, about getting in front of clients and being positive.

Barry Hennessy has re-joined Sanyo AirConditioners Ireland after a two-year spell out of theindustry. A brief tenure with an air conditioningcontractor earlier this year convinced him to return to thesector, and so he now joins former colleagues VincentMahony and Tony Duffy in spearheading Sanyosrevitalised expansion strategy for Ireland.

The newly-organised operation will see Barry head upsales and marketing with a specific emphasis on newbusiness and dealer network structure; Vincent continuingto look after technical sales and product development; andTony maintaining responsibility for technical support,training, and quality control.

Barry has been associated with Sanyo since 1998, firstas the brand representative when it was distributed inIreland through an agent, and then as team leader whenSanyo established a direct operation in 2001.

Barry recalls: I remember clearly the first day we wentdirect; we were excited and had very definite market-shareambitions. The fact that we surpassed them sospectacularly is testamount to the strength of the brand and the strong team we established at Sanyo Air Conditioners Ireland.

However, having represented the brand for almost nineyears, Barry decided to try something totally different in

2007. While it was an excellent experience and I thoroughly enjoyed the change, says Barry, I am genuinely thrilled to be back at Sanyo.

That said, the air conditioning sector is a very changedmarket to the one I left just two years ago, and presents awhole new set of challenges. But here at Sanyo we have agreat team, one of experience and total dedication, and weare all very excited at the prospect of rising to thesechallenges. Having just agreed a new lease extension atour premises here in Citywest, we will shorly host an openday to showcase our new CO2 and hyrdonic equipmentproducts.

Looking to the future, we are quietly confident that themarket is already beginning to turn, even if ever so slowly.Our mission now is to work the length and breadth of thecountry to support our existing dealers, and to engage withnew dealers. Its all about being pro-active right now, aboutgetting in front of clients and being positive.

Contact: Barry Hennesy, Sanyo Air Conditioners Ireland. Tel: 01 403 9900; 086 775 4700;[email protected]

Pictured above are Vincent Mahony, Tony Duffy and BarryHennessy.

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Sanyo Edit page:Layout 1 06/11/2009 15:20 Page 1

Noise attenuation good design practicefor engineersA pleasant office workingenvironment is one that fulfills allstatutory requirements for theenvironmental conditions requiredfor the operations being carried outwithin the occupied space. It must

be fit for purpose, complying withregulations for lighting levels,temperature requirements, humidityrequirements and noise levels. Thisarticle concerns itself with the lastand in many ways one of the mostimportant environmental conditions,noise. Here the focus shall be onwhat is noise, where it is producedwithin an office environment (where

it originates), what are its effectsand what can be done about it.

Noise definitionSimply put, a noise is anything thatcan be perceived by our ear as asensation of that organ. Noises canbe unnoticeable, pleasant, annoying,unpleasant and damaging. Soundconsists of energy generated by a source and transmitted bypressure fluctuations of the mediumthrough which it travels (air, water,earth and structures). The unit ofmeasurement of sound is thedecibel (dB). Table A on the facingpage demonstrates differenteveryday noise sources at theirlevel of measurable value asperceived by the ear.

Sound pressureThe audible spectrum of soundpressure that the ear can hear liesbetween 0.00002 pascals (Lowerthreshold) and 20 pascals (upperthreshold). If the unit pascal (Pa)


Eoghan Plunkett, lead building services engineer with PM group,has 21 years experience in design, installation, commissioning,testing and balancing, and hand over of building servicessystems in the healthcare and industrial sector, both at homeand abroad.

Over the past 12 years he has worked in the Irish buildingservices industry and has drawn on his experiences in Germanyto bring several new products to the sector, often being giventhe tricky jobs that require someone with a good feel for finedesign, coupled with a conscious commercial awareness.

Email: [email protected]

30

Designing Building Services

Ear Canal

Pinna Ear Drum

Mouth

Cochlear

Middle Ear

Inner Ear

Eustacian Tube

To BrainStapes

MalleusIncus

Balance System

Auditory Nerve

Office HVAC attenuation sounds good!

Designing BS Oct:Layout 1 06/11/2009 15:45 Page 1


31

was used as a scale for soundmeasurement values, the scalewould be too long and difficult tointerpret. Using a logarithm of thesePa values, the decibel (dB) is usedwith the lower threshold of hearingset at 0 dB and the upper thresholdset at 120 dB.

FrequencyThe pressure fluctuations (cycles)can be described in terms of thevelocity, the frequency and thewavelength. The number of cyclesper second is known as thefrequency and is measured in Hertz(Hz). The human ear can hear noiseover a broad spectrum of octavefrequencies ranging from 20 Hz to20,000 Hz. The distance betweenpoints of equal length along a soundwave (crest to crest) is defined asthe wavelength.

A-weighted noise levelAs a complete spectrum of soundcan be measured over the normalaudible frequency band (from31.5Hz to 8000Hz), a weighted unitis used to give an average valueadapted to the human ear. This unit is the dB(A). However, althoughthe dB(A) is a useful single value to quote when referring to the noisemeasurement (or design targetvalue) within an office area, it does not help to identify a particular low frequency that iscausing annoyance. Of interest, the following dB(A) noise levelsshow what activity results in whatnoise level:

Noise Rating (NR)This is defined as a valuedeveloped by the InternationalOrganisation for Standardisation(ISO) to determine theacceptable indoor environmentfor hearing preservation, speechcommunication and annoyance.This value is widely used in

Table A190 dBA Heavy weapons, 10 m behind the weapon (maximum level)180 dBA Toy pistol fired close to ear (maximum level)170 dBA Slap on the ear, fire cracker explodes on shoulder, small arms

at a distance of 50 cm (maximum level)160 dBA Hammer stroke on brass tubing or steel plate at 1 m distance,

airbag deployment very close at a distance of 30 cm (maximum level)

150 dBA Hammer stroke in a smithy at 5 m distance (maximum level)130 dBA Loud hand clapping at 1 m distance (maximum level)120 dBA Whistle at 1 m distance, test run of a jet at 15 m distance

Threshold of pain, above this fast-acting hearing damage in short action is possible

115 dBA Take-off sound of planes at 10 m distance

110 dBA Siren at 10 m distance, frequent sound level in discotheques and close to loudspeakers at rock concerts, violin close to the ear of an orchestra musician (maximum level)

105 dBA Chain saw at 1 m distance, banging car door at 1 m distance (maximum level), racing car at 40 m distance, possible level with music head phones

100 dBA Frequent level with music via head phones, jack hammer at 10 m distance

95 dBA Loud crying, hand circular saw at 1 m distance

90 dBA Angle grinder outside at 1 m distanceOver a duration of 40 hours a week hearing damage is possible

85 dBA 2-stroke chain-saw at 10 m distance, loud WC flush at 1 m distance

80 dBA Very loud traffic noise of passing lorries at 7.5 m distance, high traffic on an expressway at 25 m distance

75 dBA Passing car at 7.5 m distance, un-silenced wood shredder at 10 m distance

70 dBA Level close to a main road by day, quiet hair dryer at 1 m distance to ear

65 dBA Bad risk of heart circulation disease at constant impact is possible

60 dBA Noisy lawn mower at 10 m distance

55 dBA Low volume of radio or TV at 1 m distance, noisy vacuum cleaner at 10 m distance

50 dBA Refrigerator at 1 m distance, bird twitter outside at 15 m distance

45 dBA Noise of normal living; talking, or radio in the background

40 dBA Distraction when learning or concentration is possible

35 dBA Very quiet room fan at low speed at 1 m distance

25 dBA Sound of breathing at 1 m distance

0 dBA Auditory threshold


32


Europe. In essence, this valueuses all the readings takenacross the frequency spectrumand gives different weightingvalues to different frequencies tosimulate an average sound levelrepresentative of the human ear.This noise level value is differentfor rooms with different types ofhuman activity. Three ISOvalues are applicable in an officebuilding. These are as follows:NR 35 Executive OfficesNR 40 OfficesNR 45 General Offices

Noise criterion (NC)This value was established inthe US for rating indoor noisefrom air-conditioning equipment,copiers, etc. The methodconsists of a set of criteriacurves extending from 63 to8000 Hz, and a tangency ratingprocedure. The criteria curvesdefine the limits of octave bandspectra that must not beexceeded to meet occupantacceptance in certain spaces.

The NC rating can be obtainedby plotting the octave bandlevels for a given noise spectrum the NC curves. The noisespectrum is specified as havinga NC rating same as the lowestNC curve which is not exceededby the spectrum.

Noise sources HVAC plantIn an office environment the noisesources can be from the heatingsystem, the ventilation system, the air conditioning system, speechand office equipment. Externalnoise infiltration is only assumed tobe of annoyance or of a recordablevalue if the building elements (walls, windows, roofs, floors) aresub-standard for the buildingsgeographical location and

orientation. This latter does not,however, apply to open doors andwindows, which are assumedclosed. HVAC systems producenoise at low frequency (from4000Hz down to 15Hz) extendingonly slightly into the Infrasoundregion (below 20Hz). The noise thatis of most importance is anythingthat interferes with speech andperformance concentration withinthe office environment, and inparticular any noise that can beclassified as an annoyance. Withinthe office environment these noisesources specifically from the HVACequipment can originate from thefollowing elements of equipment:

The ventilation terminal devices Grills, diffusers, outlet disk valves.

The central air handling unit and supply/exhaust fans.

The AHU plant room/ mechanical plant room. A noise from this source is often referred to as transfer noise having been caused by noise break-in. This noise can be experienced within the office the duct serves directly through the open grill/diffuser. It can also be experienced within a space that the duct traverses (and does not directly serve) as the

trapped noise within the duct can be heard in office spaces below. This is known as break-out noise.

Equipment vibration. Another noise issue often

forgotten within the design of office environments is the roleinterconnecting ductwork betweenadjacent offices can have on thenoise transfer from one office toanother, otherwise known as cross-talk noise. This way it is possiblefor one office to hear what is beingdiscussed in adjacent areas.

Office noise levels summaryThe rule of thumb is that, if youneed to raise your voice to speak tosomeone standing two meters awayfrom you, then the backgroundnoise level is too high. This wouldhappen at levels above 50dB(A).

People have differing sensitivitiesto noise levels and character.Complaints about noise are mainlyrelated to building noise. Ventilation/air conditioning noise can beoffensive to some resulting in risingstress, fatigue and/or headaches.

Once it has been ascertained thatthe building services installation isthe source of the noise, it


immediately highlights a deficiencyin the design/installation and canlead to a loss in confidence in theoverall performance of the system.Disturbance and loss ofconcentration can causeannoyance, which could lead tostress, so it is important that thenoise annoyance should nothappen, and if it does, that it is fixed quickly.

BS 8233:1999, Sound insulationand noise reduction for buildings Code of Practice, providesrecommendations for limiting noisein various types of buildings. Therecommendation for reasonableconditions for study and workrequiring concentration in a cellularoffice is 40-45 dB(A), while foropen plan offices the criterion is 45-50 dB(A) and is based onreasonable acoustic privacy inshared spaces. BS 8233 has manywatch-its in relation to reducingand eliminating ventilation noise-related sources and is very usefulfor guidance on best practice.

In an office situation a dB(A) value range can be

taken as 40 to 45 dB(A). a NR rating value can be taken

as maximum of 40 dB. a NC value range can be taken

as 30 to 40 dB.And of course there is the golden

rule if you wouldn't like that levelof noise in your office, the level ismost probably too high!

Noise identification atdesign stageAll aspects of noise reductionrelated design are concerned with

reducing the effects of the noisewithin the working or occupiedspace. There are many reasonswhy noise is produced and amethod to aid the reduction of thesenoise sources during the designphase is to apply the followingidentification steps: 1. Outline and list all noise levels to

be achieved within the occupiedspace;

2. Assume an acoustically hardoffice space with no or little softfurnishings that could havehelped to absorb some noise.i.e. do not rely on the office fit-out to help reduce or achieveyour target noise level figure;

3. Identify all potential sources ofmechanical apparatus noise andlist a value for these noise levelsat source;

4. Identify any issues with break-inand break-out noises from theplant room down to the ceilingvoid above the offices and anyother related spaces;

5. Identify any areas where cross-talk related noise would be anissue and would need treatment;

6. Identify any potential for noisebreak-in/noise break-out fromplant or a noise source notconnected to the HVACequipment but where there is a risk of being transported using the duct network into the office space;

7. Identify if the building structurecould pose a risk to vibrationnoise entering the duct throughthe hard duct support system.

This could especially be ofimportance in offices connectedor adjacent to production areas;

8. Get an estimation of the officebackground ambient noise levelsthat will most likely be present.This only has relevance if there is a strong indication of generalnoise levels expected due to thework style (some offices arelouder than others). However,designing for a loud office isnot recommended as the officemay change occupiers with thenew tenants having a differenttype of office operation.

HVAC noise producingapparatusThe following items of mechanicalHVAC plant are the principalsources of noise with which theengineer has to contend with duringdesign development and, althoughnot always combined together for aparticular building, they should beexamined and analysed individuallyto ascertain what measures need tobe taken (if any) to ensure they donot add noise to the office space.1. Central AHU plant: The fan

makes noise across the audiblespectrum and is the principalsource of airborne noise withinthe duct walls. This noise, ifuntreated properly, can reachthe office space, and can beaudible to the ear across abroad spectrum of frequencies.

2. Break-in and break-out noise:Noise can enter the duct fromother noise sources and traveldown the duct to be experienced 33


A pleasant office working environment is one that fulfils all statutoryrequirements for the environmental conditions required for the operationsbeing carried out within the occupied space. It must be fit for purpose,complying with regulations for lighting levels, temperature requirements,humidity requirements and noise levels.


within the office. A loud plantroom or a loud production areathrough which a duct travels canbe the source of this break-innoise that enters the officespace through the grill ordiffuser. Break-out noise canenter the office through the wallsof a duct that simply traversesacross an office area, that itselfhas an internal noise sourceunrelated to the office supply orexhaust system. This source canoften be forgotten during design.

3. Duct turbulence noise: High air velocities within a duct thatsupplies to or exhausts from an office can create turbulencenoise or frictional noise as itpasses rough edges, sharpbends and duct-mounteddevices (fire dampers, staticvolume control dampers, etc.).The designer should examine all apparatus for noise-relatedvelocity rates. Ductworkvelocities should be kept low for terminal branches and ductlayouts installed directly abovethe office space.

4. Constant volume dampers(CVD): These devices are ofteninstalled close to the terminaloutlets to the office. They cancreate differing noise levels asthe damper within them adjuststo compensate for a change inpressure/air flow rate upstreamwithin the ducted system. Theseshould always be installed withan in-line attenuator between theCVD and the office diffuser/grill.

5. Cross-talk: Although not anapparatus noise source, thedesigner must allow forattenuation within the duct as it traverses across offices andthe risk of noise transfer throughthe duct (assuming the wall and the ceiling void division arearchitecturally treated) from oneoffice to another. This must becalculated to ascertain if the ductlength and contorted route isenough to attenuate or if an in-line attenuator needs to beinserted into the duct betweenoffices. For this reason, the duct layout is very important asa bad design layout can makethe designers job difficult toacoustically treat the layoutwithout spending a lot of money on attenuators.

6. Room air conditioningapparatus: Ceiling mounted fancoils and refrigerant based airconditioning units all can add to the noise within an office.Although smalle

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