Retro-Commissioning

Project Highlights

In-depth Retro-Commissioning Study of Chemistry Building to determine condition of existing building HVAC system, and to identify system upgrade and energy conservation measures and strategies. 

M/E Role

The following building retro-commissioning services were provided:
Retro-Commissioning of building HVAC and laboratory environmental systems
Determination of building ventilation systems capability to serve additional laboratory spaces
Recommendation of strategies to be implemented to increase building supply air/exhaust air capabilities
Identification/recommendations of feasible HVAC related energy conservation strategies or measures that could be considered to reduce overall building energy consumption

Building testing included the following:
Air flow measurement at air handling units and exhaust/return fans
Inlet and discharge air temperatures and pressures
RPM and motor amperage for each fan and HVAC related pump motor
Water flow measurements (supply/return)
Verify temperature control set points at the BMS
Air flow measurement at each terminal unit (dual-duct box)
Supply/exhaust/return air flow measurement at each room
Verify sensor set points and actual space temperatures
Test all operational dampers
Fume Hood/Air Valve Testing and Verification was conducted
Verification and testing of all fume hood controllers
Deficiencies were noted at the time of identification
Field testing of laboratory air flows were documented for exhaust air, fume hood exhaust and make-up/supply air
Room pressurization relationships were tested and documented for all laboratory spaces relative to the adjacent corridors
All space diffusers, grilles, registers were tested to determine if any significant air leakage exists between terminal boxes and room delivery points

The following measures were analyzed:
Conversion of dual duct systems to variable air volume
Installation of premium efficiency motors and variable frequency drives on air handling unit fans
Direct Digital Control system upgrade
Fume hood replacement or retrofit to lower flow/variable volume or enhanced control strategies
Alternative building exhaust approaches
Possible heat recovery opportunities