Building Services & Equipment-II (01101353) CHAPTER 1

1. Introduction to Building Services

 Definition:
Building services are all systems installed in buildings to make them comfortable, functional, and safe for
users.

 Includes:

 Electrical services

 Mechanical services (HVAC, lifts, fire protection)

 Plumbing services (water supply, drainage)

 Objective:
Ensure efficient, safe, and sustainable operation of buildings.

2. Electrical Services – Basics

A. What is Electricity?

 Electricity: Form of energy, easily converted to other forms (light, heat, motion).

 Sources:

1. Power Stations – Large scale, for cities/industries

2. Electric Cells (Batteries) – Portable, for small devices

B. Electric Current

 Definition: Rate of flow of electric charges (electrons) in a circuit.

 SI Unit: Ampere (A)

 Conversion:
1 A=1000 mA1 A=1000 mA
1 mA=0.001 A1 mA=0.001 A

 Current Flow:
Electrons move from negative terminal, through circuit, back to positive terminal.

3. Electricity Generation Methods

 Traditional/Thermal Power Plant: Uses coal, oil, gas to produce steam → rotates turbines → generates
electricity.

 Hydro Power Plant: Uses water flow to turn turbines.

 Wind Power Plant: Wind turns turbines.

 Solar Power Plant: Converts sunlight to electricity (solar panels).

 Other:

 Diesel, Gas, Combined Cycle, Tidal, Geothermal, Biomass, Fuel Cells.

[Draw simple diagrams for each type: e.g., water turning turbine for hydro, windmill for wind, solar panel for
solar.]

4. Electricity Distribution in India

 Resource Distribution:
  Hydro: North-East & North

 Coal: East

 Energy resources and consumption centers are unbalanced → need for long-distance transmission.

 Power Sectors (as of 31st March 2011):

 Central: 54,412 MW

 State: 82,452 MW

 Private: 36,761 MW

 Total: 173,625 MW

5. Transmission & Distribution

A. Transmission

 Primary Transmission: High voltage (220kV, 400kV) from generation to substations.

 Secondary Transmission: Medium voltage (33kV, 66kV) from substations to local areas.

B. Distribution

 Distribution Lines: Deliver electricity at lower voltages (11kV, 440V, 230V) to consumers.

 Basic Flow:
Generation → Transmission → Substation → Distribution → User

[Draw the typical power flow diagram with substations and lines.]

6. Transformers

 Function: Change voltage levels for efficient transmission & distribution.

 How it works: Receives energy at one voltage, delivers at another.

 Advantage:

 High voltage = low current = less line loss.

 Types:

 Step-up (increases voltage)

 Step-down (decreases voltage)

[Draw a simple transformer diagram: primary coil, secondary coil, core.]

7. Earthing (Grounding)

 Purpose:

 Protects people and equipment from electric shock and lightning.

 Provides a safe path for fault current.

 Applications:

 Equipment Earth (fault current path)

 Lightning Earth (diverts lightning)

 Telecom Earth (reduces noise/interference)

  Computer Earth (reduces interference)

 Types:

 Neutral Earth (supply system)

 System Earth

 Safety Earth

 Lightning Earth

 Generator Earth

 Protection Earth (surge arrestor)

 Integrated Earthing System

[Draw: Earth plate in ground, wire connecting to equipment.]

8. Electrical Protection – Classes

 Class I Protection:

 Uses insulation and connects metallic enclosure to protective conductor.

 Protects against electric shock.

 Class II Protection:

 Double insulation, no exposed metal parts.

 Extra safety even if basic insulation fails.

[Draw: Plug with two layers of insulation for Class II.]

9. Key Safety Practices in Electrical Services23

 Use proper tools and storage.

 Follow circuit diagrams for installation.

 Wear suitable clothing (avoid loose or metallic items).

 Be aware of dangers: electric shock, fire, abnormal usage.

 Follow regulations: IEE, Factory Act, supply regulations.

 Install fire alarms and emergency systems.

10. Plumbing & Mechanical Services (Overview)2

 Cold & Hot Water Supply:

 Direct and Indirect systems.

 Sanitary Appliances:

 Sinks, basins, toilets, showers.

 Drainage:

 Drainage systems, storm water drainage, piping.

 Gas Installation:

 For heating/cooking.
  Fire Protection:

 Sprinklers, hydrants, extinguishers.

11. Ventilation & Air Conditioning (Basics)

 Ventilation:

 Ensures fresh air, removes stale air.

 Openings: windows, vents, exhaust fans.

 Air Conditioning:

 Controls temperature, humidity, air quality.

 Types: Window AC, Split AC, Central AC.

 Components: Compressor, condenser, evaporator, ducting.

[Draw: Simple AC system with indoor and outdoor units.]

12. Communication Systems in Buildings

 Telephone, Fax, EPABX:

 Internal and external communication.

 Layout:

 Cables, distribution boxes, connection points.

13. Symbols & Diagrams

 Learn standard symbols for switches, sockets, lights, fans, transformers, etc.

 Practice drawing simple layout plans and wiring diagrams.

14. Tips for Exam Preparation34

 Revise regularly using your notes.

 Practice diagrams and symbols.

 Solve past year questions.

 Use mind maps and flowcharts for quick revision.

 Focus on safety, regulations, and practical applications.

Sample Diagrams to Draw:

 Power generation and distribution flow

 Transformer (primary, secondary coils)

 Earthing system (earth plate, wire)

 AC system (split AC units)

 Basic wiring symbols

Building Services & Equipment-II – Electrical Services CHAPTER 2

1. How Electrical Services Enter a Building

 In urban areas, electrical cables are usually underground.

 Cables are brought up at ground level or into the basement.

 Service cable cannot be bent to a small radius-plan the entry point carefully.

 In small buildings, keep the cable run as short as possible.

 Cable terminates at a distribution board (DB) at the first convenient position.

Distribution Board Setup:

 Fitted with a seal box to prevent moisture entry.

 Contains a main fuse (sealed by supply authority).

 Has a consumer unit (switch/fuse gear) for the building.

 DB location: Should be easily accessible for meter reading and fuse replacement.

 Sometimes, special glass is provided for meter reading without entering the premises.

2. Distribution Board (DB)

 Also called panel-board or breaker panel.

 Function: Divides main electrical feed into subsidiary circuits.

 Provides a protective fuse or circuit breaker for each circuit.

 All fuses/breakers are contained in a common enclosure.

[Draw a simple rectangle labeled "Distribution Board" with lines going to "Lighting," "Sockets," "Appliances," each
protected by a fuse/breaker.]

3. Domestic Supply

 Single Phase:

 Two wires: Phase and Neutral.

 Voltage: 240V.

 Used in small buildings/houses.

 Each phase serves every third building for load balance.

 Three Phase:

 Four wires: Three Phases + Neutral.

 Voltage between phases: 415V.

 Voltage between phase and neutral: 240V.

 Used in larger buildings/for motors.

 Different areas served by different phases for load balancing.

[Draw two diagrams: one for single-phase (2 wires), one for three-phase (4 wires, show 415V between phases,
240V to neutral).]

4. Distribution Circuits
  Electricity in buildings is divided into sub-circuits:

 Lighting Load Sub-circuit: For lamps, fans, tubes, etc.

 Power Load Sub-circuit: For sockets, heavy appliances.

 Typical ratings (as per Indian Electricity Rules):

 Filament lamp: 60W

 Ceiling fan: 60W

 Socket (radio/table fan): 60W

 Fluorescent tube: 40W

 Mercury vapor lamp: 80W

5. Basic Wiring Systems

 Wiring can be surface-mounted (cheaper, less aesthetic) or concealed (hidden, neater).

 Types of wiring:

1. Cleat Wiring:

 V.I.R or PVC wires held by porcelain cleats (fixed every 0.5m horizontally, 0.75m vertically).

 Cheapest, quick to install, little skill required.

 [Draw: two parallel wires on wall, held by cleats.]

2. Wooden Casing & Capping Wiring:

 Wires run inside a wooden casing, covered by a wooden cap.

 Size: typically 20mm x 12mm.

 Used for house wiring, easy to install.

 [Draw: cross-section of casing with wires inside, cap on top.]

3. Lead Casing Wiring:

 Wires (VIR) covered with lead-aluminum sheath.

 Good mechanical protection, less fire risk.

 Used in houses/industries.

 [Draw: wire with thick outer sheath.]

4. C.T.S & T.R.S (PVC) Wiring:

 Wires run on wooden battens, fixed with clips.

 Cab Tyre Sheathed (CTS) or Tough Rubber Sheathed (TRS) wires.

 Suitable for domestic, commercial, industrial buildings (except where mechanical injury is
likely).

 [Draw: wire on batten, fixed with clips.]

5. Conduit Wiring:

 Wires carried through steel or PVC tubes (conduits).

  Surface conduit: Tubes fixed on wall surface.

 Concealed conduit: Tubes hidden inside wall.

 Most protective, neatest, but costlier.

 [Draw: wire inside a tube, tube either on wall or inside wall.]

6. Electrical Distribution Through Ducts

 Duct tube: Inflatable rubber tube placed in concrete before pouring; removed after setting, leaves duct for
cables.

 Skirting trucking: Cable runs above skirting along perimeter walls; used in offices.

 Floor trucking: Used in large offices, especially where desks are away from walls; allows flexible re-planning.

 Overhead distribution:

 More economical and flexible than underfloor.

 Used in industrial units for pendant connections.

[Draw: cross-section of wall/floor showing duct, or cable run above skirting.]

7. Electrical Installations – Steps

1. Planning & Designing:

 Prepare working drawings.

 Apply to electricity supply company for load estimate and substation/transformer needs.

 Lay conduits for underground supply before concreting/plinth work.

 Lay conduits in slabs/beams, fix fan hooks/boxes in slab reinforcement.

 Mark wiring layout in all rooms.

 Complete wiring installation.

2. Execution:

 Fix all fittings and fixtures.

 Test installation.

 Provide consumer meters.

 Submit test reports for supply connection (NOC needed if building >15m).

 Installation checked by authorized officer before meter sealing.

 Permanent supply connection given after approval.

8. Design & Planning of Electrical Installations

 Must suit the type of building and user requirements.

 Always consult a licensed electrical engineer/contractor at planning stage.

 Key considerations:

 Safety and efficiency

 Adequacy for intended use

  Coordination with architect, structural engineer, owner/developer

9. How to Draft an Electric Layout

 Use standard symbols for all components (cell, battery, lamp, switch, socket, etc.).

 Prepare a layout plan showing:

 Location of switchboards, sockets, lights, fans, appliances

 Heights and positions for each fitting

 Phase distribution (for three-phase supply)

 Schematic diagrams for circuits

[Draw: sample plan with symbols for switches, sockets, lights, fans. Include a legend for symbols.]

10. Common Electrical Symbols

Component Symbol (draw in notebook)

Electric cell (long and short line)

Battery (multiple cells)

Light bulb (circle with cross)

Switch (open) (break in line)

Switch (closed) (line with connection)

Socket (circle with two lines)

Fan (circle with F)

Earth (three horizontal lines)

11. Sample Schedule for Switchboards

SDB Area Switch Height Holder 5A 15A Fan Tube AC Computer Projector
Board (mm) Socket Socket Light

Room
SDB1 1 SB1.1 1300 WH1 1 - F1 - - - -

Room
SDB1 2 SB1.2 1300 - 1 1 - - - - -

... ... ... ... ... ... ... ... ... ... ... ...
Building Services & Equipment-II

Chapter 3: Electrical Services – Definitions & Units of Measurement for Electricity and Natural Light

1. Light as Electromagnetic Radiation

 Light is a form of electromagnetic radiation.

 It behaves like radio waves (low frequency) and X-rays (high frequency).

 Reflection:

o Polished (specular) surface: reflects light at the same angle as it strikes.

o Matt surface: reflects light in many directions.

o Semi-matt surface: reflects between polished and matt.

2. Importance of Natural Light in Buildings

 Before installing electricity, always check for natural light resources.

 Maximizing daylight:

o Saves energy.

o Reduces costs.

3. Key Lighting Terms & Units

 Luminous Intensity:

o Unit: candela (cd)

o Measures the strength of light in a direction.

 Luminous Flux:

o Unit: lumen (lm)

o Measures total visible light emitted.

 Luminance:

o Unit: cd/m²

o Light reflected from a surface.

 Illuminance:

o Unit: lux (lx) or lumens/m²

o Measures light falling on a surface.

 Efficacy:

o Lumens per watt (lm/W)

o Shows efficiency of a lamp.

Luminous flux output
o Formula:Luminous efficacy = Electrical power input
  Glare Index:

o Numerical value (10 for shaded light, 30 for exposed lamp).

o Calculated using light source size, location, luminance, surroundings.

4. Recommended Illuminance & Glare Index

Activity/Location Illuminance (lux) Limiting Glare Index

Assembly work (general) 250 25

Assembly work (fine) 1000 22

Computer room 300 16

House 50–300 n/a

Laboratory 500 16

Lecture/Classroom 300 16

Offices (general) 500 19

Offices (drawing) 750 16

Shops/Supermarkets 500 22

Restaurant 100 22

5. Lighting Efficiency

 Expressed as initial (100 hour) efficiency averaged over a building.

 Minimum standards:

o Offices/industrial/storage: ≥ 40 luminaire-lumens/circuit-watt.

o Other buildings: ≥ 50 lamp-lumens/circuit-watt.

o Display lighting: ≥ 15 lamp-lumens/circuit-watt.

6. Lighting Control Objectives

 Maximize use of daylight.

 Avoid unnecessary artificial lighting, especially when spaces are unoccupied.

7. Lighting Control Facilities

 Manual switches: Local, easily accessible.

 Remote devices: Infra-red transmitters, sonic/ultrasonic, telecommunication controls.

 Switch distance: Max 8 meters or 3× fitting height above floor (whichever is greater).

 Time switches: Used as per occupancy.

  Photo-electric switches: Light metering for automatic control.

 Infra-red sensors: Detect presence/absence of people for automatic switching.

8. Daylight Factor (DF)

 DF includes three components:

a. Sky Component: Direct light from the sky (excludes direct sunlight).

b. External Reflected Component: Light reflected from exterior surfaces.

c. Internal Reflected Component: Light reflected from internal surfaces.

**[Draw a window section showing:

 Sky component (direct from sky)

 External reflected (from ground/buildings outside)

 Internal reflected (from walls, ceiling, floor inside)]**

9. Contours of Equal Daylight Factors

 Contours show how daylight penetrates a room from windows.

 Low window: Poor light penetration (good near window, poor at back).

 High window: Better penetration (more even light, but less at sides).

[Draw plan with window, show lines for 1%, 2.5%, 5%, 7%, 10% daylight factor.]

10. Reflection Factors (%) for Surfaces

Surface/Color Reflection Factor (%)

White 75–88

Pale cream 73

Golden yellow 62

Light buff 60

Light stone 53

Sky blue 47

Light grey 44

Salmon pink 42

Middle stone 37

Orange 36

Light brown 30

Dark grey 26
 Middle brown 20

 Ceiling reflection factor: Assume 70%.

11. Window Area Ratios (Glazing Area Standards)

 Dwellings:

o Windows, doors, roof lights: max 25% of total floor area.

 Non-domestic buildings:

o Residential: max 30% of exposed wall area.

o Industrial/storage: max 15% of exposed wall area.

o Shops/offices: max 40% of exposed wall area (excludes display windows).

12. Summary Table: Window Area vs. Reflection Factors

Window:Floor Ratio Floor Reflection (%) Wall Reflection (%) Typical DF (%)

1:50 (2%) 10–20 20–80 0–2

1:20 (5%) 10–20 20–80 0–4

1:10 (10%) 10–20 20–80 0–7

1:5 (20%) 10–20 20–80 0–14

13. Key Formulas

Luminous flux (lm)
 Luminous efficacy:Luminous efficacy = Power input (W)

Luminous flux (lm)

 Illuminance:Illuminance (lux) = Area (m2 )
Chapter 4: Communication Services

1. Introduction

 Communication services = systems for voice, data, and IT connectivity in buildings.

 Covers telephones, internet, building automation, and sound systems.

 Four main categories:

a. Tele-communication systems

b. Local Area Networks (LANs)

c. Building Automation & Control Systems (BACS)

d. Sound Systems

2. Tele-communication Systems

 Basic structure:

o Sender → Channel → Receiver

 Data transmitted as carrier waves (analog or digital).

 Old systems: Analog signals on copper wires.

 Modern systems: Mostly digital, using fiber-optic cables and digital phone lines.

 Fiber-optic: Faster, less interference, ideal for high-speed data.

3. Local Area Networks (LANs)

 Definition: Data system allowing multiple devices to communicate in a building.

 Components:

o Computers

o Network Interface Card (NIC)

o Communication cable (UTP, fiber)

o LAN hub or switch

 Each device connects to a hub/switch with its own cable.

4. Building Automation & Control Systems (BACS)

 Purpose: Centralized control and monitoring of building systems.

 Systems controlled:

o HVAC (Heating, Ventilation, Air Conditioning)

 o Fire alarm

o Security, access control, CCTV

 How it works:

o Central control unit + distributed sensors/devices.

o Sensors connect to central unit (often powered via the same cable).

5. Sound Systems

 Used in airports, malls, stadiums, stores for announcements and music.

 Types:

o Overhead paging: Broadcasts messages (e.g., in airports).

o Audio systems: Provide background music (e.g., in stores).

 Components:

o Sound source (microphone, music)

o Amplifier

o Communication cable

o Speakers

6. Phone Systems

A. Small Business Phone System

 Use Key Service Unit (KSU).

 Supports up to 8 phone lines and 32 extensions.

 Each phone connects to the KSU with UTP copper cable.

B. Large Business Phone System

 Use PBX (Private Branch Exchange).

 Can handle hundreds of lines and thousands of extensions.

 Distribution:

o Main Distribution Frame (MDF) in basement.

o Vertical ducts (risers) carry cables to each floor.

o Horizontal ducts distribute to each area.

 Design tip: No phone outlet should be >328m from a riser.

7. Main Distribution Frame (MDF) & PABX

 MDF:

o Central hub for telecom wiring.

 o Connects external lines to internal network.

o Located on ground floor; cables enter overhead or underground.

 PABX (Private Automatic Branch Exchange):

o Office telephone switchboard.

o Allows many internal extensions and features.

o Advantages:

 Administrative control, feature-rich, upgradeable, one-time cost.

o Disadvantages:

 Costly upgrades, disaster vulnerability, needs skilled staff.

8. Types of Communication Cables

A. Twisted Pair Cable

 Two conductors twisted together.

 Advantages: Cheap, good for small LANs.

 Disadvantages: Susceptible to interference, limited range.

B. Optical Fiber Cable

 Bundle of glass threads; transmits data as light.

 Advantages:

o Low signal loss, immune to electrical noise, works in harsh environments.

 Disadvantages:

o Expensive, needs special handling, industry lacks standardization.

C. Coaxial Cable

 Inner conductor, insulating layer, outer shield.

 Advantages:

o Good frequency range, low error, shielded from noise.

 Disadvantages:

o Expensive, thick and hard to install.

9. Simple Diagrams to Draw

 Communication process:

o [Sender] → [Channel] → [Receiver]

 LAN setup:

o Multiple computers connected to a central hub/switch.

 Phone system:
 o Phones connected to KSU or PBX, with riser and horizontal ducts.

 Cable types:

o Twisted pair (two wires twisted),

Optical fiber (bundle of threads),
Coaxial (central wire, insulation, shield).

10. Summary Table: Cable Types

Cable Type Advantages Disadvantages Use Case

Twisted Pair Cheap, easy for small networks Interference, short range Small LAN, phones

Optical Fiber Fast, secure, immune to EMI Expensive, special handling High-speed data

Coaxial Good range, shielded, low error Costly, thick, hard to bend TV, backbone

CHAPTER 5

1. Introduction to Building Services

 Definition:
Building services are the systems installed in buildings to make them comfortable, functional, efficient, and
safe[1][2].

 Main areas:

o Electrical services

o Plumbing services

o Mechanical services (HVAC, lifts, escalators)

o Fire protection

o Gas installation

o Communication systems

o Security and access control

2. Role and Importance

 Building services are central to the design, construction, and operation of modern buildings [1].

 Account for 30–40% of total building cost[1].

 Affect sustainability, energy use, and occupant comfort.

 Must be integrated into building design from the earliest stages.

3. Electrical Services

A. Electrical Supply and Distribution

 Three-phase generation and supply:

 o Used for large buildings and industry.

o More efficient for heavy loads.

 Single-phase supply:

o Used for small buildings/houses.

 Electricity distribution:

o From main supply to consumer unit (distribution board).

o Divided into power and lighting circuits[3].

[Draw: Simple diagram showing main supply → distribution board → circuits]

B. Consumer Unit (Distribution Board)

 Contains fuses/circuit breakers for each circuit.

 Provides overload and short-circuit protection.

 Must be accessible for maintenance and emergencies.

C. Earthing Systems

 Purpose: Prevents electric shock by providing a safe path for fault current.

 Bonding: Connects all metal parts to earth.

 Types: TN-S, TN-C-S, TT systems[3].

D. Electrical Wiring

 Types:

o Cleat wiring (temporary)

o Casing and capping

o Batten wiring

o Conduit wiring (surface/concealed, most common)

 Testing:

o Insulation resistance

o Earth continuity

o Polarity[3][2]

E. Safety and Regulations

 Follow IEE regulations, local codes, and Factory Act[2].

 Use proper tools and PPE.

 Avoid unsuitable clothing and unsafe practices.

 Install fire alarms and emergency systems.

4. Plumbing Services

A. Water Supply
  Cold and hot water supply:

o Direct system: Water from main supply directly to fixtures.

o Indirect system: Water stored in tanks before distribution.

 Pipe materials:

o GI (galvanized iron), copper, PVC, polythene, lead[3][2].

B. Sanitary Appliances

 Sinks, basins, toilets, showers.

 Connected to drainage system.

C. Drainage Systems

 Soil and waste pipes: Remove wastewater.

 Storm water drainage: Removes rainwater.

 Testing: Water test, smoke test for leaks.

D. Gas Installation

 For heating/cooking.

 Includes gas service pipe, meter, controls, safety devices[3].

E. Fire Protection (Plumbing)

 Sprinkler systems, hydrants, hose reels.

 Must meet fire safety codes.

5. Mechanical Services

A. HVAC (Heating, Ventilation, Air Conditioning)

 Purpose: Maintain comfortable temperature, humidity, and air quality.

 Types:

o Window AC, split AC, central AC, VRF/VRV, chiller systems.

 Ventilation:

o Natural (windows, vents)

o Mechanical (fans, exhausts)

 Air distribution:

o Ducts, grilles, diffusers.

B. Lifts and Escalators

 Lifts:

o Electric or hydraulic.

o Machine room, controls, safety features.

 Escalators/Travelators:
 o Moving stairs/walkways for people flow.

6. Fire Prevention and Control

 Active systems:

o Sprinklers, drenchers, hose reels, hydrants, extinguishers[3].

o Fire alarms, detectors (smoke, heat), electrical alarm circuits.

 Passive systems:

o Fire-resistant construction, fire dampers, pressurization of escape routes, smoke extraction.

 Portable extinguishers:

o Water, foam, CO₂, dry powder types.

7. Security and Communication Systems

 Intruder alarms:

o Micro-switch, magnetic reed, radio sensor, pressure mat, vibration detectors.

 Access control:

o Card readers, biometric systems.

 CCTV:

o Surveillance cameras for security.

 Telecommunications:

o Telephone, internet, LAN, fiber optics[3].

 Building Automation:

o Centralized control for lighting, HVAC, security.

8. Accommodation for Services

 Ducts:

o Vertical and horizontal for cables, pipes, and air.

 Raised floors, suspended ceilings:

o Conceal services, allow easy maintenance[3].

 Fire stopping:

o Prevents fire spread through service penetrations.

9. Alternative and Renewable Energy

 Types:

o Solar power, wind, geothermal, biomass, fuel cells, water power[3].

  Sustainability:

o Reduces carbon footprint, saves energy.

10. Symbols & Diagrams

 Learn standard symbols for:

o Electrical: switches, sockets, lights, DBs[3].

o Plumbing: pipes, valves, fixtures.

o HVAC: ducts, grilles, diffusers.

 Practice drawing simple layout plans and wiring diagrams.

11. Maintenance

 Types:

o Preventive, corrective, predictive.

 Plans:

o Regular inspection, record-keeping, documentation[4].

 Tools:

o Ensure tools/equipment are fit for purpose and maintained.

12. Safety in Building Services

 Always follow health and safety regulations[4][2].

 Use PPE (Personal Protective Equipment).

 Safe isolation of circuits before work.

 Emergency procedures and first aid.

 Warning signs for hazardous substances.

Chapter 6: HVAC Services-II – Air Handling Unit, VAV, Air Distribution

1. Air Handling Unit (AHU)

 Definition:
An AHU is a device used to regulate and circulate air as part of an HVAC system.

 Main Functions:

o Supplies or exhausts air

o Regulates temperature and quality of air

o Can be tailor-made for specific needs

 Main Components:

o Blower (fan): Moves air

o Heating/Cooling elements: Coils for hot/chilled water, or direct heating/cooling

o Filter racks/chambers: Clean air before distribution

o Sound attenuators: Reduce noise

o Dampers: Control airflow

 Types of AHU:
a) Horizontal, draw-through
b) Vertical, draw-through
c) Blow-through, multizone
d) Makeup air AHU, custom-built, rooftop units

 Small AHUs:

o May have fuel-burning heater or refrigeration evaporator in the air stream

 Large AHUs:

o Use hot/chilled water coils (from boiler/chiller)

[Draw a labeled diagram of a typical AHU showing: fan, coil, filter, damper, casing]

2. Variable Air Volume (VAV) Systems

 Definition:
VAV is a type of HVAC system where the airflow (CFM) is varied at a constant temperature to meet the
requirements of each zone or room.

 How it works:
 o AHU supplies air at a fixed temperature

o VAV box in each zone adjusts damper to control the volume of air

o Thermostat in the zone signals the VAV box to open/close damper as needed

o As demand decreases, damper closes → less air supplied

o As demand increases, damper opens → more air supplied

 Key Components:

o Supply ducting system: Connects AHU to VAV boxes

o VAV terminal box: Contains airflow sensor, damper, sometimes a fan, filter, reheat coil, and controls

o Zone temperature control: Thermostat or sensor in each zone

 Types of VAV boxes:

o Pressure-dependent: Airflow varies with duct pressure (less stable)

o Pressure-independent: Maintains constant airflow regardless of duct pressure (preferred)

 Energy Efficiency:

o Supply fan speed is controlled by a VFD (variable frequency drive) to maintain constant duct static
pressure

o As VAV boxes close, duct pressure rises → fan slows down to save energy

[Draw a schematic: AHU → supply duct → VAV boxes → rooms, with damper shown in VAV box]

3. Air Distribution System

 Purpose:
To deliver conditioned air from AHU to spaces and return used air for reconditioning or exhaust.

 Components:

o Ducts: Carry supply, return, and exhaust air

o Grilles & Diffusers: Disperse air into rooms

o Return Air Ducts: Recirculate air back to AHU

o Fresh Air Intake Dampers: Add fresh air as needed

 Duct Classification:

o By shape: Rectangular, round, oval, flexible

o By pressure: High, medium, low

o By velocity: High, low

  Duct Material:

o Galvanized steel, aluminum, flexible polyester

 Duct Shape Pros/Cons:

o Rectangular: Easy to fabricate on site, more air leakage

o Round: Less resistance, better rigidity, less leakage

o Flat oval: For low ceiling spaces

o Flexible: For connections to diffusers

[Draw different duct shapes: rectangular, round, oval, flexible]

4. Grilles & Diffusers

 Grille:

o Supplies or extracts air vertically, no deflection

o Materials: Aluminum, steel, stainless steel, plastic

 Diffuser:

o Distributes conditioned air in various directions using vanes

o Ensures even air distribution and comfort

 Types:

o Egg crate grille

o Linear grille

o Transfer grille

o Louvered bladed diffuser

o Linear slot diffuser

o Jet diffuser

o Square diffuser

[Draw examples of each grille/diffuser type, label main features]

5. Key Points for Maintenance & Safety

 Regular Maintenance:
 o Check/replace filters

o Verify damper operation

o Inspect fans and motors

o Check air quality and ventilation rates

 Safety Features:

o High static pressure cutout

o Frost protection detector after heating coil

o Emergency shut-off for fans if faults detected

6. Summary Table: Duct & Diffuser Types

Duct Shape Pros Cons

Rectangular Easy to fabricate More leakage

Round Less resistance, strong Needs more space

Flat Oval Fits low ceilings Complex fabrication

Flexible Easy to install, flexible More resistance

Diffuser Type Application

---------------------- -----------------------------

Egg crate grille General supply/extract

Linear grille Modern aesthetics, long runs

Transfer grille Air transfer between rooms

Louvered diffuser Directional control

Linear slot diffuser Discreet, continuous look

Jet diffuser Large spaces, long throw

Square diffuser Common, even distribution