Digitalisation empowers to optimise AHU performance and maintenance

Andrea Pagan, CAREL Application Manager – Ventilation and Systems, explains that the required indoor air quality standard impacts the filtration systems and materials used in the AHU’s construction. The type of air distribution within the space is another consideration that affects fan operation and air supply.

What critical components of an AHU contribute to ventilation system performance?
Air handling units have several essential components, including fans, filters, and heat recovery systems. All are designed to ensure optimal indoor comfort while maximising efficiency in the most efficient way possible. Among these components, fans, heat recovery, and the control system significantly impact performance.

The role of fans is to circulate air within the AHU and ventilation system efficiently, minimising energy consumption. Using fans with continuous speed control, the operation can be adjusted based on system load variations, resulting in energy savings when lower airflow is needed. The energy recovery system is the second crucial component that recovers heat and humidity from exhaust air and transfers it to incoming fresh air. This reduces the reliance on traditional heating and cooling systems, leading to energy efficiency.

The positive contribution of an energy recovery system depends on the maximum achievable efficiency. The system’s efficiency in transferring heat from exhaust to supply air is essential to ensure effective energy recovery. Still, it should also be balanced with the pressure drop caused by its operation. Incorporating a bypass damper alongside the heat recovery unit, controlled by a modulating actuator, enhances the unit’s operation. The bypass allows the choice of using the heat recovery unit or relying on fresh outside air only when appropriate.

The control system is the third and final crucial element for achieving the highest unit performance. The control system. It plays a vital role in continuously adapting the unit’s behaviour based on actual operating conditions. Using advanced logic, the control system efficiently manages the components to achieve the desired performance while minimising energy consumption.

What are the key factors to consider when determining the appropriate capacity of an air handling unit for a specific space?
Selecting the appropriate capacity for an air handling unit (AHU) in a specific space requires careful consideration of various factors. This ensures that the ventilation system effectively meets the site’s needs. The key aspects that must be considered include the required air volume, influenced by the space’s purpose and usage. It also consists of the internal thermal loads from activities carried out within the space and external loads, which depend on the climate and building insulation. 

The required indoor air quality standard also impacts the filtration systems and materials used in the AHU’s construction. The type of air distribution within the space is another consideration that affects fan operation and air supply. Finally, compliance with safety regulations is vital if the AHU operates in spaces where there are specific requirements.

How do you evaluate digitalised AHUs in the commercial and hospitality industry?
Digitalisation has become significant across various fields, including air handling units. With the growing availability of connectivity, we can now gather data on AHU operations, leading to enhanced system performance in both the early and long stages. By analysing data during commissioning, we can ensure that the AHU’s actual performance aligns with expectations. Over time, continuous data analysis can aid in predictive maintenance, identifying critical conditions beforehand. Additionally, artificial intelligence algorithms can offer less experienced users improvement strategies to boost unit efficiency gradually. Overall, digitalisation empowers us to optimise AHU performance and maintenance throughout its lifecycle.

What factors need to be considered for the maintenance and servicing of air handling units to ensure optimal operation?
Regular maintenance is crucial for enhancing air handling units’ performance and long-term efficiency (AHU). Key maintenance tasks include the cleaning and replacement of filters, as well as the thorough cleaning of heat exchange coils. Additionally, inspecting and ensuring the tightness of joints and openings is essential to detect any potential leaks. Regular checks on the heat recovery unit to prevent blockages are also necessary.

Furthermore, it is vital to calibrate the instruments regularly to ensure accurate and precise control of the AHU. Periodic technology upgrades can further contribute to improved performance and overall energy efficiency. AHUs can operate optimally and remain energy-efficient throughout their lifespan by adhering to a comprehensive maintenance routine.

What are the methods to diagnose and address challenges with air handling units?
Air handling units (AHUs) face several challenges, each requiring thorough troubleshooting. The primary approach involves on-site visual inspection of the unit in the field. However, integrating digital technologies enables more extensive and efficient management of these tasks. Analysing data remotely in the office allows for potential issue identification before physically going on-site to address and resolve the problems.