CCME Sept 2013

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NEWS – empower: 'July peak consumption up by 5.2%' p6 FOCUS: Valves amidst du shop secures green apple award p6 emicool ties up an evolving market p38 CPi industry launches dC awards p10 with aquametro p8 PERSPECTIVE: ultrasonic

PRE-EVENT REPORT: the Big 5 Kuwait p14

SPOTLIGHT: Asking the right questions on air filtration p56

technology in cooling towers p52

COUNTRY REPORT

IRAQ: a story of growth and challenges p26

PLUS: ASHRAE Update, Comings & Goings, Marketplace

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Vol. 8 No. 9 | SEPTEMBER 2013 04 FROM THE EDITOR The miracle at Al-Wathba

HAPPENINGS

contents

06 The region 16 At large 18 Marketplace

24 ASHRAE UPDATE 38 FOCUS

Winning in an evalveing market In a constantly evolving market, highly affected by prevailing economic conditions, companies have to be prepared to device new strategies to respond to the changing requirements. Jerome Sanchez takes a look at the trends in the valves sector in the Middle East.

PERSPECTIVE

48 UGVI for easier maintenance and energy savings With the help of a case study and other supporting evidence, Mike Walrath demonstrates that UVGI use can add significantly to Indoor Air Quality and energy efficiency, especially in the MENA region.

52 Ultrasonic technology in cooling towers Ultrasound technology is an effective and environmentally friendly method to minimise chemical consumption and improve the efficiency of a cooling tower, says Ander Paz Blazquez.

54 The first step towards cost savings Pointing out that nearly all buildings in the Middle East lack effective energy management, Michael Scriven recommends Web-hosted energy monitoring system as a tool to save energy and raise awareness about its use.

56 SPOTLIGHT The ideal start

We seem to have several questions about Indoor Air Quality and air filtration technologies that could be used to improve it. however, can the right answers be obtained by asking the wrong questions? Dr Al-Attar explains.

acoustics & vibration

42 ACOUSTICS

— what is being measured and why is it important?

Acoustic issues can be mitigated by taking noise into account at the beginning of the design process and by preventing the problem rather than reacting to it once it occurs, says Rebecca hogg.

34

COVER STORY

Beauty with a purpose

By introducing innovative features and integrating new components, manufacturers are out to prove that there is more to grilles and diffusers than meets the eye. Jerome Sanchez has the report.

26

COUNTRY REPORT: IRAQ

Mesopotential

The potential of Iraq as a growth hub for the hVAC industry is being much talked about. If it can create a more conducive business environment backed by an aggressive push towards better services, the country promises to be an attractive market for industry players. Jerome Sanchez has the story.

46 HVAC noise

& vibration control

Saying that hVAC noise and vibration could be attributed to issues like poor design, wrong selection of equipment, incorrect installation methods and lack of maintenance, Edward Adamczyk demonstrates that proper care and attention during all stages of a project can help mitigate the problems.

September 2013

www.climatecontrolme.com

3

froM the

editor Publisher Dominic De Sousa

The MiRaCLe aT aL waThBa

Managing Director & Associate Publisher Frédéric Paillé | fred@cpi-industry.com Editorial Director & Associate Publisher B Surendar | surendar@cpi-industry.com

F

COO Nadeem Hood | nadeem@cpidubai.com

or a few years now, biologists worldwide, including in the Middle East, have been researching the potential of tapping into algae for use as biofuels. The aim is not merely to convert algae into energy but also to scale up production to an industrial level.

Algae research is an elaborate process, involving as it does identifying different strains of the organism, cultivating the feedstock, harvesting, extracting and, then, converting into energy.

In the GCC, Hector Hernandez, an Assistant Professor at Masdar Institute, has reported how a particular strain of algae, AAH001, could be used as biofuel. Hernandez discovered the algae in watering holes during a February 2011 trip to the desert near Al Wathba in Abu Dhabi. Most algal strains need freshwater to survive, but AAH001, Hernandez concluded after observing the species for seven months, had the ability to thrive at high salinities and in a broad temperature range of between 20°C and 40°C. While the ponds of Al Wathba reportedly have a salinity level six times that of the ocean, in a more heartening development, Hernandez and his team, holed up in a basement lab in Masdar Institute have been able to grow the organism in a medium of water that is about nine times the salinity of the ocean. The implications are simple – AAH001 is a hardy algae that thrives in the extreme salinity in the region and, hence, constitutes a sustainable source of biofuel.

The next challenge, of course, is to ramp up the production of the biofuel to an industrial level.

The possibility of mass-scale production in the GCC is salivatingly alluring and could contribute to the energy-mix and ease supply concerns to meet the ever-growing demand for power. It is no secret we are consuming more power. To look at the issue from a district cooling perspective, Empower in August reported a 5.2% increase in peak consumption of cooling in Dubai in July 2013, as compared to July 2012. The Dubai-headquartered district cooling provider (see story) attributed the increase to higher occupancy levels.

Coming back to AAH001, a native of Abu Dhabi, an equally formidable challenge, with reference to sourcing the algae to match industrial bio-refinery levels, is the manner in which we protect the species. By extension, it is vital we protect its ecosystem. This is especially relevant in the context of the popular drive to capture carbon and pump it into the bowels of the earth. In the case of apparently precious AAH001, it is upon us to study the impact of carbon capture on its ecosystem (there is substantial heat that is released during the carbon capture process), so that we do not inadvertently end up threatening its very existence and possibly causing irretrievable damage even before being able to enjoy its benefits.

Assistant Editor Jerome Sanchez jerome@cpi-industry.com Contributing Editors Pratibha Umashankar prati@cpi-industry.com Anoop K Menon anoop@cpi-industry.com Senior Business Development Consultant Stephanie McGuinness stephanie@cpi-industry.com Design Genesis Salao | getty@cpi-industry.com Webmaster Troy Maagma | troy.maagma@cpimediagroup.com Database/ Subscriptions Manager Purwanti Srirejeki purwanti@cpi-industry.com Advertising Enquiries Frédéric Paillé: +971 50 7147204 fred@cpi-industry.com Stephanie McGuinness: +971 50 5034087 stephanie@cpi-industry.com

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NEwS – Empower : 'July peak consump tion up by 5.2%' p6 du shop secures Green Apple Award p6

CPI Industry launches Emicool ties up DC Awards p10 with Aquametr o p8 PRE-EVENT REPOR T: The Big 5 Kuwait p14

4

Climate Control Middle East September 2013

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FOCUS: Valves amidst an evolving market p38

PERSPECTIVE: Ultrasonic technology in cooling towers p52 PLUS: ASHRAE Update,

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COUNTRY REPORT

IRAQ: a story of growth and challenges p26

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happenings the region

Empower records 5.2% leap in July peak consumption

Also announces settling AED 83 million loan installment

E

mpower, the UAE-based district cooling provider, has announced a 5.2% increase in peak consumption in July, with the total standing at 83,447,361 TR (Tonnes of Refrigeration) per hour, compared with 79,310,340 TR per hour for the same month in 2012.

Ahmad bin Shafar, CEO of Empower, attributed the growth to three key drivers: the increase in occupancy in residential areas, such as Jumeirah Beach Residence (JBR), Al Khail Gate, Ghuroob Mirdif and Tecom C, which led to an increase of 4.5% in district cooling consumption; an increase in the number of new buildings receiving Empower’s service in Business Bay; and the increase in occupancy in commercial buildings,

which led to a 7.4% increase in district cooling consumption.

“These figures are extremely encouraging and clearly reflect a return to recovery in commercial areas in Dubai", bin Shafar said. “Empower is fully ready to meet the increasing demand for its services through developing new plants to increase our production capacity significantly. The rising preference of district cooling solutions in Dubai further establishes the Emirate’s leading international role as an advocate of green building solutions, such as district cooling.”

Empower is currently developing its second district cooling plant in Business Bay, which will have an ultimate

capacity of 45,000 TR when complete in mid-2014. This plant is expected to meet the forecast rise in cooling demand in the area, and, according to the company, will also be the first district cooling plant in the region to be built in line with Green Building principles.

Meanwhile, Empower has announced settling the half-yearly loan installment of AED 83 million. It elaborated that the loan was a part of a syndicated loan facility comprising a consortium of international and local banks and financial institutions, with Emirates NBD being the facility agent.

According to Empower, the loan was used to finance the development of its district cooling plants and networks in areas that include Dubai International Financial Centre (DIFC), Business Bay, Mirdif, TECOM C and Al Quoz. It added that the company had already settled AED 760 million of the total AED 1.2 billion loan, reflecting the stability of its business model.

Echoing this, Ahmad Bin Shafar, CEO, Empower, said: “Empower has adopted the strategy of investing in plants and network infrastructure driven by actual demand, and has been extremely cautious in its investments. This has resulted in the sustainable growth of the company and has enabled us to meet our commitments according to agreed timelines.”

Green Apple Award for du shop

Shop in Fujairah City Centre is the UAE’s first LEED Platinum-certified retail outlet

d

u has announced that it has received The International Green Apple Award for “build environment and architectural heritage” for its du Shop in Fujairah City Centre, reportedly the UAE’s first retail outlet to be LEED Platinum certified. The green shop concept is in line with du’s efforts to adopt more sustainable practices, the announcement highlighted.

6

“It is an honour to have received this recognition from the prestigious Green Apple Awards,” said Abdulhadi Alalyak, Vice President, Asset Management, du, who received the award during a ceremony held in the UK. “Our green retail concept is a step towards a more sustainable future for our company and for our nation, and we are very proud that

Climate Control Middle East September 2013

Abdulhadi Alalyak (left) from du receiving the Green Apple Award

it has received such positive accolades from sustainability leaders.”

According to du, The Green Apple Environment Awards were launched in 1994 by The Green Organisation and have

become well established as one of the most popular environmental campaigns in the world.

Giving details of its endeavours to explore and Continued on page 8 >>

happenings the region

EMICOOL ties up with Aquametro To ensure accurate energy consumption metering in DC services

D

istrict cooling service provider Emirates District Cooling (EMICOOL) has announced its new business partnership with Switzerland-based Aquametro, a smart metering company that manufactures thermal energy meters, to launch AquaCool Metering.

EMICOOL claims that it is the first-of-its-kind entity to bring technology and solutions to the regional market through its highly calibrated BTU meter, which it says, is an

essential component for professional district cooling services to ensure reliable and accurate metering of energy consumption.

According to EMICOOL, the new technology will help provide the UAE market with the most modern pre- and post-installation solutions for building owners, developers and other stakeholders.

On the new tie-up, Adib Moubadder, General Manager of EMICOOL, said: “Supporting reduction in carbon footprint

Naser Asab, Marketing Manager, Aquametro; Fritz Hauff, CEO, Aquametro; Adrian Manuel Oehler, Chairman, Aquametro; Abdul Aziz Al Serkal, Chairman, EMICOOL and Omar Al Mesmar, General Manager, DIP

is imperative and not an option any longer. We are proud of our significant contribution towards a better future for the next generation, and our partnership with Aquametro and the launch of AquaCool Metering is a pivotal step in this direction. It has always been a challenge to assess the precise consumption of air conditioning and to find the right allocation of utility costs between public areas

and tenants’ premises, which are now possible with the new BTU meters.”

Adrian Oehler, Chairman of Aquametro and President of Governing Board of Integra Group, added: “The district cooling market in UAE offers tremendous growth potential for AquaCool to deliver a unique model based on advanced and innovative meters manufactured by Aquametro.”

Continued from page 6 >>

, Yo u r t r u s t e d pa r t n e r f o r Yo u r engineering, energY and environment solutions

Green Apple Award for du shop

du outlet at Fujairah City Center

eng i n e e r i ng

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phone +971 4 445 7131, +971 4 447 4407 Fax +971 4 447 4410 p.o.Box 125787, Jumeirah Lakes towers tiffany tower, 30th Floor - Dubai, U.a.e. info@en3solutions.com www.en3solutions.com

the three Factor company

8

Engineering

Climate Control Middle East September 2013

Energy

Environment

implement innovative alternative solutions, du said that the Fujairah outlet was designed, supervised and managed by Asset Management and Corporate Administrations (AMCA) projects’ team to achieve LEED certification, and that the sustainable features incorporated in its design include:  HVAC equipment is highly efficient with appropriate zoning and controls  Renewable Energy Certificates (RECs) are provided for green power  High quality indoor environment for occupants is produced by using low-emitting adhesives, paints, flooring and wood  Space is 30% more ventilated for improved air quality  100% of lights is controlled by motion sensors  100% Energy Star-rated equipment  100% of wood used in the project is FSC certified  92% of construction waste was diverted from landfill  42% of furniture and furnishings are re-used  Lighting power is reduced by 41%  24.5% of materials used in the project is recycled  28.5% of materials used in the project is regional

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happenings the region

CPI Industry launches DC Awards

Also gears up for the 3rd Annual Climate Control Awards in November

W

ith the avowed intention of recognising and honouring the core values and practices that underpin successful businesses in Qatar, CPI Industry, publishers of Climate Control Middle East magazine, has announced the launch of the 1st Annual District Cooling Awards, to be held on October 7 in Doha, at the Grand Hyatt Doha.

Giving details of the awards, B Surendar, Editorial Director and Associate Publisher of CPI Industry and the producer of the event, said: “District cooling is widely recognised as a long-term solution for dense residential, commercial and mixed-use development.

It is acknowledged as having the potential to play a significant role in reducing domestic energy demand and as contributing to climate change mitigation efforts.

In the past few years, it has

faced headwinds in the forms of uncertain load profiles, finance, the availability of water and pricing mechanism.

The Awards will seek to honour those that have taken steps to help them surmount the challenges.”

The categories for which awards will be given include Best District Cooling Consultant/Partner, Best District Cooling Contractor, Best Developer, Best Manufacturer (Chillers), Best Manufacturer (Cooling Towers), Best O&M Firm and Best Water/Wastewater Treatment Firm. (For the

complete list of awards categories, along with the parameters for evaluation, visit http://www.cpiindustry.com/events/dcawards)

ThE 3RD ANNUAL CLIMATE CONTROL AWARDS Hot on the heels of the inaugural District Cooling Awards in Doha will be the

Downtown Doha

3rd Annual Climate Control Awards (CCA 2013), to be held on November 27 in Dubai, at the Jumeirah Emirates Towers. With the theme “Recognising innovators and influencers: Regional innovations in technology, business and economic approaches that inform and influence global HVACR best practices”, CCA 2013 will honour HVACR businesses for their ability to influence global thinking.

Speaking about the forthcoming event, B Surendar said: “Broadly speaking, innovations are widely acknowledged as being crucial to driving businesses in the right path in the Middle East.

Those businesses that embrace innovations as being central to their decision-making and implementation processes

Dyson Eid al-Fitr roadshow at Dubai Showcases products and technology at Mall of the Emirates

T

o celebrate Eid al-Fitr, Dyson hosted a roadshow at Mall of The Emirates, Dubai, which ended on August 10, introducing its technology, including those of its patented Air Multiplier fans and cordless

10

Climate Control Middle East September 2013

not only have an edge in the region, but also have the potential to stand out on a global platform.”

CPI Industry said that most of the categories of the previous year had been retained, while new ones have been added. It explained that the changes were based on feedback it had received from the industry in order to better streamline its approach and, at the same time, ensure a more inclusive approach.

Awards will be given for categories under Architecture & HVAC, Building Performance, District Cooling, Refrigeration, Standalone Systems, and Ventilation Systems.

(For the complete list of awards categories, along with the parameters for evaluation, visit http://www. climatecontrolme.com/awards)

vacuum cleaners. Announcing this, the company said that the Dyson stand showcased a range of floor care machines.

Dyson gave additional information about a few of its products: The Dyson Air Multiplier fan is claimed to be the world’s first bladeless fan. The DC44, a cordless vacuum cleaner, comes with patented anti-static carbon fibre brushes, which can reportedly pick up fine dust from hard floors. Its Root Cyclone technology is said to ensure that there is no loss of suction. DC41 Animal, with Radial Root Cyclone technology and Ball technology, the company claims, help smooth steering and is designed for homes with pets.

happenings the region

Al-Futtaim TROX opens a Engineering bags new subsidiary contract in Qatar Will provide HVAC works for Etihad Rail project

A

l-Futtaim Engineering has announced its MEP division being awarded a contract to provide HVAC works for the Etihad Rail project, by Saipem S.p.A. who is the main contractor for the project.

The multi-million-dirham project will see the Al-Futtaim group company provide HVAC works for depots, track and line side alignment facilities at Mirfah in Abu Dhabi, the announcement added.

It gave details of the project: Etihad Rail, a joint venture between Abu Dhabi and the federal government, is the master developer and operator of the UAE’s national railway network. Its AED 40 billion 1,200-km route network will connect urban and remote communities throughout the country. The network will also form a vital part of the GCC Railway Network – linking the UAE to Saudi Arabia, via Ghweifat in the west, and to Oman, via Al Ain in the east.

“We are extremely honoured to be awarded this prestigious contract,” said Murali S, Acting Managing Director of Al-Futtaim Engineering. “Once complete, the rail project is expected to significantly boost the economy, and we are proud to participate in the development of the country. "

Introduces full-time expertise and immediate client support in the country

I

n an official communiqué, the TROX Group announced the opening of TROX Arabia in Doha, Qatar, which is the group’s second subsidiary in the GCC region and the 25th worldwide.

TROX Arabia, the company added, would be located on D Ring Road, and would be managed by Somasundaram K V, who would relocate to Doha from TROX UAE. The company said that it had been in operation since 1951, and that it had a presence in the Middle East since the mid-1970s, and opening a new branch in Qatar would bring much local and global experience in the ‘art of handling air’ to the country’s HVAC and construction industries.

The company further shared that, with an extensive portfolio of prestigious hotels, stadiums, museums, rail and metro, and education, commercial and healthcare projects, TROX would be entering the Qatari market with the goal of establishing itself as an enhanced

Al-Futtaim Engineering partners with VTS Clima

Appointed exclusive distributor for VTS products in Qatar

A

l-Futtaim Engineering’s Qatar operations, under the name Hamad and Mohamad Al Futtaim, has been appointed as the exclusive distributor for VTS Clima products in the Peninsula. Announcing this, the company said that it had introduced VTS’ latest Air Handling Unit product range to customers at an event held in Doha, attended by clients, consultants, MEP contractors and developers.

12

On the occasion, Rajesh Devidas Bhatia, Division Manager, AC Division, Al-Futtaim Engineering, said about the tie-up: “Our partnership with VTS Clima will help provide cooling solutions for various construction segment sectors, like shopping complexes, hotel buildings and residential and commercial towers.

The VTS Clima range of air handling units strengthens and diversifies Al-Futtaim

Climate Control Middle East September 2013

HVAC manufacturer/supplier, a bestrated partner for architects, project developers and consultants and a key supplier for contractors.

Commenting against the backdrop of the occasion, Thomas Orr, Managing Director of TROX in the GCC, said: “The TROX Group have always been committed to the Middle East region.

We have identified the need to have full-time expertise available in Qatar, so as to provide locally based clients with immediate personal support.

"We also bring an unrivalled product range to the market, and with our quality equipment being tested and proven, we look forward to assisting the local industry stakeholders to engineer and procure the correct solution for their specific requirement."

TROX is also currently launching its second generation selection software, which is available to its customers, free of charge. “Built on an easy to use platform, this selection software allows the designer to access comprehensive data that can define the conditions that an end user would experience in the occupied zone,” Orr said. “This provides the designer with complete confidence in their selected air distribution solution being able to maintain the specific design conditions.” He added that TROX can also provide full training, as and when requested, in order to ensure that full benefit is obtained from the software.

Engineering’s product offering in Qatar and complements existing products and services offered by the company.”

According to Al-Futtaim Engineering, VTS Group

deals in air handling, air conditioning and heating products, with its products being sold in the Qatar market for over half a decade.

From left to right: Fazal Rashid, Managing Director, VTS Gulf-FZCO; Murali S, Acting Managing Director, Al-Futtaim Engineering; Cyprian Estemberg, Corporate Product Manager; Dawood Bin Ozair, Senior Managing Director, Electronics, Engineering & Technologies, Al-Futtaim Group and Rajesh Devidas Bhatia, Divisional Manager, AC Division, Al-Futtaim Engineering, at the event to introduce VTS Clima products

T H E A R T OF HANDLING AIR – N OW A LS O IN QA TA R – TROX, the technological market leader in the devlopment, manufacture, and supply of systems and components for the HVAC industry, have now opened their 25th subsidiary – TROX Arabia LLC – in Qatar.

www.trox.qa info@trox.qa

TROX Arabia LLC PO Box 24863, Ofce No. 241, 2nd Floor, Regus Building, D-Ring Road, Doha, Qatar Phone: +974 4423 1314

happenings the region

PRE-EVENT REPORT

All roads lead to the fortress T

outed as one of the fastest growing countries in the region, Kuwait is said to have the potential to deliver longterm and sustainable growth opportunities for entities involved in construction in the Middle East. According to an official communiqué

by DMG Events, organisers of the forthcoming The Big 5 Kuwait, the budget for infrastructure and building projects in the country is pegged at USD 30.5 billion, which represents the biggest amount earmarked for the country’s infrastructure.

Further boosting the growth of the Kuwait construction sector are the infrastructure projects covered in the country’s 2012-2013 development plan and the country’s USD 125-billion five-year mega projects development plan.

14

Climate Control Middle East September 2013

Photographs courtesy http://www.big5kuwait.com/sales_brochure

With high demand for new infrastructure and building projects, coupled with a growing interest in the country's construction market, the Kuwait’s building sector is expected to boom.

In an article titled, “Gulf HVAC sector warms up again” (available on the The Big 5 Kuwait Web site), Andrew DeGuire, Vice President of Strategy and Acquisitions at Johnson Controls, said that the construction market in Saudi Arabia, Oman and Kuwait would witness an annual growth of more than 10%.

It is evident that the growth of Kuwait’s construction sector bodes well for the country’s HVAC sector, as the presence of HVAC systems in residences and commercial buildings is indispensable, given the climatic conditions of the region. Underscoring this, DeGuire pointed out that the GCC region’s HVAC market had seen an annual growth in expenditures of 12% from 2008 to 2011, and that the GCC HVAC market was expected to grow by eight per cent annually from 2011 to 2015.

The Big 5 Kuwait

With the rapid expansion of the construction sector in Kuwait comes a growing interest by different entities from around the world to take part in what is described as an “economic boom”. The Big 5 Kuwait, supported by H.E. Anas Khalid Al-Saleh of the Kuwait Ministry of Commerce and Industry, to be held at the Kuwait International Fair from September 16 to 18, is expected to reflect this. It will open its doors to local, regional and international government representatives, investors, facility managers, contractors, construction managers, architects, consultants, civil engineers, mechanical engineers and

electrical engineers, among others, to visit, exhibit and network at the event, and attend seminars, conferences and workshops that will be held alongside the exhibition.

The Big 5 Kuwait, according to DMG Events, will represent an excellent venue for participants to meet prospective buyers from among the largest construction projects in Kuwait, and will serve as an opportunity to introduce their products to a market said to be actively sourcing new and innovative technologies.

The organisers added that among the products to be showcased would be HVAC-related technologies, construction tools, conveying systems, electrical systems, finishes, glass and glazing, safety and security equipment, windows, doors, and plumbing- and water technology-related systems.

This year’s edition of The Big 5 Kuwait will reportedly boast of several special features,

including a dedicated zone for concrete-related products by exhibitors, a half-day seminar on how to successfully do business in Kuwait, a conference on sustainable design and construction and accredited workshops.

The organisers gave the following details:  The seminar will provide information on how and where to get started, information about local partnerships, licensing, permits, visas, premises, employment, taxation requirements, Kuwait foreign offset contributions, risk management and exit procedures.  The conference will provide business-critical project updates and case studies, which could help attendees learn how to deliver green buildings and sustainable infrastructure on time and within the allotted budget. Held on the second and the third day of the event, the conference would

Acrex2014_ME_185x90_climate_control.indd 1

provide a dynamic platform for meaningful discussion and practical guidance on how the design and construction industries can best deliver sustainable infrastructure and green buildings in Kuwait.

The panel of speakers at the conference, said the organisers, would include Eng Osama Alduaij, Deputy Director General of Kuwait Municipality; Capt Tawfiq Shwab, Director of Marine Operations at Kuwaiti Ports Authority; Hugh Henderson, Director of Consultancy, MACE Macro; Mario Seneviratne, Director of Green Technologies and Dr Mussaad Al-Razouki, CEO, Kleos Healthcare Corporation.  Accredited workshops would focus on providing practical applications and current knowledge on issues relating to building and infrastructure projects, at the end of which delegates would be awarded a globally recognised certificate.

PARTICIPATING

HVAC COMPANIES                       

Al-Ahmad Group Alhasawi Industrial Group AlShaya Ventilation Anchor Allied Factory LTD Attieh Group CMS - Group of Companies COOLEX Desiccant Rotors International Duct Technology Factory Dutco Tennant/Enviro Path Ecotherm Austria GmbH Express Technical Facility Engineering Services Glassrock Insulation Global Hardware Guilbert Express Gulf Facilities General Trading & Contracting Co. KIMMCO Insulation Metalex General Trading & Contracting Co. Prime - Focus Air Conditioning Industries LLC - Dubai (UAE) Prism Surface Coatings Safario Cooling Factory LLC SAT Group

From the exhibitor list provided on the official event Web site: www.big5kuwait.com

September 2013

13.08.13 15 09:45 www.climatecontrolme.com

happenings at large

eurammon holds symposium

Presents examples of natural refrigerants in use; honours winners of Natural Refrigeration Award 2013

Beat Schuppisser

Dr Robert Lamb

Monika Witt, Chairwoman of eurammon, presented the winners with the Natural Refrigeration Award 2013 at the symposium. From left: Jens Eiseler, Monika Witt, Xiangping Zhang, Bernd Bierling

The symposium informed almost 70 participants on new developments related to natural refrigerants

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Climate Control Middle East September 2013

U

nder the banner of “Green Economy with Natural Refrigerants”, eurammon held a symposium on June 28 in Schaffhausen, Switzerland, which showcased the great potential of natural refrigerants, the joint European initiative on natural refrigerants has said in an announcement.

According to eurammon, in addition to a screening of the new eurammon film on the history and evolution of natural refrigerants to illustrate that they are the solution for tomorrow, a panel discussion was held on the use of the ammonia as a refrigerant, where speakers presented international case studies from Australia, the United States and Switzerland.

Giving the event highlights, eurammon said that Beat Schuppisser from Johnson Controls explained how carbon emissions were reduced by 790 tonnes and how natural gas consumption was reduced by 500,000 m3 through using a combination of a refrigeration system and a heat pump, and presented a case study from the Kellermann Company.

“We are delighted that our symposium has again attracted great interest this year,” said Monika Witt, Chair of eurammon.

“The header, ‘Green Economy’ makes it clear that, even today, forwardlooking refrigeration systems have to be much more than just environmentally friendly.

We feel it’s important to inform people of the high energy efficiency that can be achieved by using natural refrigerants.

They really pay off for operators.”

During the symposium,

eurammon honoured winners of Natural Refrigeration Award 2013 for their outstanding theses in the field.

Giving details of the bi-annual awards, eurammon said that it called on students and young scientists to enter the competition for the Natural Refrigeration Award 2013, being conducted in conjunction with the Technical University of Hamburg-Harburg, as academic partner, and the Norwegian trade magazine Kulde Og Varmepumper, as the media partner.

According to eurammon, this year, Xiangping Zhang from the Donghua University, China, won the award for outstanding research produced by a young scientist, while Bernd Bierling from the University of Stuttgart came second, and the third prize went to Jens Eiseler from Karlsruhe University of Applied Sciences. After the awards ceremony, the three winners reportedly presented their final theses to the audience at the symposium.

“Interest in the award is steadily growing,” said Monika Witt, Chair of eurammon, about the awards. “In particular, we are pleased to see increasing numbers of applicants from universities outside Europe.... We are very impressed with the scientific work by our award winners carried out on the use of natural refrigerants. The winning research projects are an important basis from which to advance applications using natural refrigerants in the future.”

happenings at large

Burr Oak releases whitepaper on new coil evolution

Provides information on smaller diameter coil production and small diameter tubing

B

urr Oak Tool, which deals in customised production machinery for the heat transfer and tube processing industries, has announced releasing a new online whitepaper featuring information on the evolution of coils. Newell Franks, Chairman and CEO of Burr Oak, first presented this information at the 2013 AHR Expo, the

announcement added.

According to Burr Oak, the whitepaper highlights smaller diameter coil production, presents information on small diameter tubing and why diameters are decreasing, and solutions to the manufacturing challenges created by these industry moves. It also includes a mini history of coil materials and sizes, as well as frequently asked questions about the advantages of small diameter tubing.

comings&goings

GEA appoints new CTO To be responsible for global refrigeration segment

I

n an official release, GEA announces that John Ansbro has joined the four-member Board of top management as new Chief Technology Officer of GEA Refrigeration Technologies.

GEA revealed that in his new position, Ansbro will be responsible for production and development of the company’s global refrigeration technology segment, while continuing to act as Sales President for America and as the CEO of GEA Refrigeration North America.

According to GEA, Ansbro, who received his Bachelor’s degree in Mechanical Engineering and Third Assistant Engineer’s license for the US Coast Guard at State University of New York Maritime College, completed his formal business training at Mount Saint Mary’s College, Emmitsburg, Maryland, with an MBA degree. He has worked for GEA Group since 2009.

Speaking about his new responsibilities, Ansbro said: “Our development centres, distributed as they are throughout the world, offer comprehensive expertise, and have in the past years demonstrated successful collaboration with each other…. As an engineer, it is for me an extremely welcome challenge to further develop this synergism in my new position as Chief Technology Officer, and to contribute to further energy-efficient and effectively developed innovations.”

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Climate Control Middle East September 2013

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marketplace

this section contains regional and international products information

Belimo Americas KR actuator on pressure-independent valve

C

laiming that it is an HVAC solution when space is limited, Belimo Americas, manufacturer of damper actuators and control valves, has announced the release of KR actuator on the Pressure Independent Characterised Control Valve (PICCV).

The manufacturer lists the following product features and benefits:  The multi-patented, rugged KR actuator offers 18 in-lbs (2 Nm).  It is designed for motorising open-close applications to ensure optimal valve design and absolutely reproducible control quality.  The PICCV has characterised control ball valve technology

which provides an equal-percentage characteristic curve and better control, and is self-cleaning, thus eliminating

Rubber World Industry – Gulf-O-Flex acoustic sound proofing elastomeric rubber insulation

blockage, offering longer life and superior flow control than other short stroke solutions.  The pressure independent valve directly controls water flow required by the coil and is not affected by pressure fluctuations in the system.  By precisely controlling the flow, the pressure independent valve eliminates the need for a balancing valve, thus reducing the installation and balancing cost.  It saves energy by eliminating overflow through the coil.  KR actuators with the PICCV offer a compact simple field adjustable solution.

Idrobase Group Night & Day 360° range

S

aying that it has been specifically developed for sound proofing purposes, Rubber World Industry – Gulf-O-Flex, has announced launching its latest line of elastomeric rubber foam insulation.

The manufacturer lists the following product features and benefits:  The new line of Gulf-O-Flex acoustic sound proofing elastomeric rubber insulation helps reduce noise as it acts as an acoustic barrier.  The flexible rubber insulation reduces transmission of sound through walls, floors, and ceilings.  It is eco-friendly, which encompasses ecological, environmental, recyclable and green construction.  The insulation provides noise reduction from 20 to 45 db followed by the insulation thickness variant.

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Climate Control Middle East September 2013

C

laiming that they light the night and cool the day, Idrobase Group has announced introducing Perfect Cool’s patented range of 360° night and day pieces of furniture with the brand names Torre 360°; Ombrellone 360°; Tavolino 360°; and èSoffio 360°.

The manufacturer lists the following features and benefits:  They are equipped with two LED lights and a ring of nozzles on their superior side at a height of about 2.7 metres. Thanks to the combined action of a nebuliser and a fan, the nozzles blow millions of micro-droplets of water into the air, creating a pleasant breeze.  Different from traditional fans, which only move the air around them, the combined action of the nebuliser and the fan of the 360° night & day line blows a cloud of micro-droplets of water in a surrounding area of six metres of diameter, cooling it without wetting people and objects and reducing temperature by up to 10°C.  Additionally, they suppress dust, smoke and bad odours, and keep flying insects and mosquitoes away.  They are ideal for being installed in the external areas of restaurants, bars, pizzerias, public gardens and hotels.

marketplace

this section contains regional and international products information

Fluid Components International SiL-compliant ST100 Flow Meter

F

luid Components International (FCI) has announced introducing its ST100 Series Thermal Mass Air/Gas Flow Meter, claiming that it has been tested by Exida and classified as a Type B subsystem, in accordance with IEC 61508-1 with a hardware failure tolerance of 0, and that the Probability of Failure on Demand (PFD) meets SIL-1 capability standards.

The manufacturer lists the following product features and benefits:  The ST100 Series flow meter offers adaptability to meet plant gas flow measurement applications for 4-20 mA analogue, frequency/ pulse, alarm relays or digital bus communications such as HART, Fieldbus, Profibus or Modbus.  An upgrade can be achieved with a plug-in card replacement by plant technicians.  Its LCD display/readout provides the industry’s most comprehensive information with continuous display of all process measurements and alarm status, and interrogates for service diagnostics.  An on-board data logger with removable 2GB micro-SD memory can store 21 million readings.

 It stores up to five calibration groups to accommodate broad flow ranges, differing mixtures of the same gas and multiple gases and obtains up to 1000:1 turndown.  It is the first thermal flow meter to offer three different types of flow sensors to match user applications: The fast-response FPC-style; the fast-response, general purpose FP-style; and the unshrouded S-style.  The series comes in ST and STP model families.  The basic insertion style air/gas meter features a thermal flow sensing element that measures flow from 0.25 to 1000 SFPS (0.07 NMPS to 305 NMPS) with accuracy of ±0.75 per cent of reading, ±0.5 per cent of full scale.  It offers service up to 454ºC and is available with both integral and remote electronics versions.  It is agency-approved for hazardous environments, including the entire instrument, the transmitter and the, NEMA 4X/IP67-rated enclosure. Instrument approvals in addition to SIL-1 include ATEX, IECEx, FM and FMc.

EIC Solutions electronic enclosure air conditioner drip pan

e

IC Solutions, manufacturer of thermoelectric air conditioners, electronic enclosures and transit cases, has announced introducing drip pan designs, which it claims, eliminate condensate, protect cabinet contents and prevent rust and corrosion.

The manufacturer lists the following product features and benefits:  The specially contoured vertical drip pans manage condensate by collecting moisture and, then, channeling it outside the enclosure via an external drain fitting, located at the bottom of the pan. A drain tube from the pan, then, carries the water out of the enclosure and discharges it safely away from electronics and other gear housed inside the cabinet.  In cases where the cooling units are mounted on the top of the enclosure, a horizontal drip pan with drain fitting is integrated into the air conditioner. A drain tube is

22

Climate Control Middle East September 2013

connected to the pan drain fittings at the bottom of the air conditioning unit.

The tube carries the condensate out of the enclosure the same as with the standard model.  A small hole is drilled in the enclosure for the drain tube to pass through.

The opening is weatherproofed with durable rubber grommet and waterproof sealant. If drilling the

drain tube opening in the enclosure is not possible, EIC offers alternative solutions, the most common of which is the use of a replaceable desiccant. Since it permits complete portability, this method of condensate management is suitable for transit case applications.

the world’s largest hvac r

C O-S P O N S O R S h o n o r a ry s p o n s o r

m a r ke tp l a c e

jan uary 21-23 jav its con v e ntion ce nte r a h r e x p o.c o m /at te n d13

ASHRAE UPDATE

ASHRAE names new Distinguished Lecturers Lecturers can speak on 345 topics in a combined 10 languages

A

SHRAE has named eight new Distinguished Lecturers who provide Society chapters with noted authorities and speak on relevant topics that impact the built environment industry, ASHRAE said in an announcement.

According to ASHRAE, this year marked the 14th year of the Distinguished Lecturer Program, with over 1,600 lectures given since the programme began in 1996.

The total 77 Lecturers for the 2013-14 Society year represented 13 countries: Argentina, Canada, Denmark, Egypt, Hong Kong, Lebanon, Malaysia, Mexico, Singapore, Taiwan, Thailand, United Kingdom and United States.

These lecturers, ASHRAE said, were available on 345 topics and spoke a combined 10 languages.

ASHRAE listed the new lecturers and their presentation topics: • Donald Beaty, PE, Fellow ASHRAE, President, DLB

Associates Consulting Engineers, Eatontown, New Jersey: “Data Center Energy Efficiency”; “Case Studies: Implementing ASHRAE’s Allowable Ranges in Data Centers”; “Trends and Measurements for Data Center Optimisation and Future-Proofing”.

• James Coogan, PE, Senior Principal, Siemens Building Technologies, Buffalo Grove, Illinois: “Space Pressurisation: Concept and Practice”; “Methodical Approach to Sustainability in Labs”; “Air Flow Controls at the Terminal Level”; “Feedback Systems in HVAC”.

• Marlene Linders, President and CEO, Philders Group International, and Executive Director, The Linders Health Institute, Heathrow, Florida: “Overview of Risk Management for Infection Control during Healthcare Construction”; “De-mystifying Healthcare: 3 Critical Keys in Doing

Business with the American Healthcare System”.

• Bjarne Olesen, PhD, Fellow ASHRAE, Life Member, Professor, International Centre for Indoor Environmental and Energy, Technical University of Denmark, Lyngby: “International Standards for the Indoor Environment – Where Are We and Do They Apply Worldwide?”; “Indoor Environment – HealthComfort and Productivity”; “The European Approach to Decrease Energy Consumption in Buildings”; “Applications of Embedded Radiant Heating and Cooling in Buildings”.

• Douglas Reindl, PhD, PE, Fellow ASHRAE, Professor, Engineering Professional Development, University of Wisconsin-Madison: “An Introduction to Ammonia Refrigeration Systems”; “ASHRAE Standard 15-2010 – A Review and Update”; “Refrigerant Safety – Inside and

ASHRAE IAQ 2013 in October Environmental Health in Low-Energy Buildings Conference will bring together collective knowledge of the industry

E

ighty conference papers and extended abstracts will be presented at IAQ 2013, Environmental Health in Low-Energy Buildings Conference, which will take place from October 15 to18 in Vancouver, British Columbia, Canada,

24

ASHRAE revealed in a news release. This is the 17th in the ASHRAE IAQ conference series and is co-organised by ISIAQ, it added.

According to ASHRAE, finding the balance between environmental health and energy efficiency in the

Climate Control Middle East September 2013

pursuit of low-energy buildings will be examined in a paper, setting the tone for discussion for the conference.

“There are not a lot of data on IEQ in highperformance buildings, but this conference will bring

Outside the Machinery Room”.

• Roger Schmidt, PhD, IBM Fellow, IBM Corporation, Poughkeepsie, NY: “Power/ Cooling/Environmental Trends in Data Centers”; “Air and Liquid Cooled IT Equipment – Best Practices in the Data Center”.

• Gordon Sharp, Chairman and Founder, Aircuity, Newton, Massachusetts: “Healthy, Airside Solutions to Significantly Reduce your Building’s Carbon Footprint”; “New Approaches to Slash Lab and Commercial Building Energy Use and Improve IEQ”; “Slashing Lab and Vivarium Building Energy Use by up to 50%”; “A Holistic Overview of Technologies and Strategies to Achieve Deep Energy Reductions in Laboratories”; “Building a Net Zero Lab in the United Arab Emirates: Mission Impossible?”; “Making Buildings Smarter to Maintain their Energy Efficiency Entitlement”.

• Donald Wulfinghoff, PE, Life Member, President, Wulfinghoff Energy Services, Wheaton, Maryland: “Optimized HVAC for the 21st Century”; “Ten Critical Criteria for Selecting Any Energy Project”.

the collective knowledge of the industry together to set a benchmark, if you will, on where we are and how we should move forward,” Hal Levin, Conference Co-chair, said. “It will be important in identifying critical gaps in our knowledge and potential priorities for future ASHRAE research, standards and guidelines.”

Registration is now open for the conference, and to register and for complete conference information, one can visit www.ASHRAE.org/ IAQ2013, ASHRAE informed.

ASHRAE announces High Performance Buildings conference Will facilitate understanding of current IEQ and energy-saving efforts

A

SHRAE has announced that its next High Performance Buildings Conference will take place on April 7 and 8, 2014, at Hyatt Fisherman’s Wharf, San Francisco, California. Building upon the 2012 High Performance Buildings Conference and 2009 Net-Zero Energy Conference, the next version seeks to advance the industry’s efforts to accomplish a true high-performance built environment, the announcement said.

According to ASHRAE, the subject areas of the conference include water efficiency, building occupant behaviour, new building technologies and indoor environmental quality, in addition to increased emphasis on lighting/daylighting and the building envelope. The conference, presented by ASHRAE’s High Performing Buildings magazine, will have a format comprising invited speakers as well as a call for presenters and a call for posters, which will be announced in the fall.

“The 2014 HPB Conference provides a unique opportunity for dialogue among attendees to facilitate understanding of current indoor environmental quality and energy-saving efforts and to share best practices for achieving high-performance buildings,” Kent Peterson, Conference Chair, said.

ASHRAE announces 2013-14 conference lineup Events will offer information on latest developments in the industry and networking opportunities

A

SHRAE has announced its conference schedule for 2013-2014, which it says, is widespread in both dates and global reach. It has listed the following lineup of events: • October 15-18, ASHRAE IAQ 2013: Environmental Health in Low Energy Buildings, Vancouver, British Columbia, Canada • January 18-22, 2014, ASHRAE Winter Conference; January 20-23, 2014, AHR Expo, New York, New York • February 24-26, 2014, First International Conference on Energy and Indoor Environment for Hot Climates, Doha, Qatar • April 7-8, 2014, High Performance Buildings Conference, San Francisco, California • April 24-25, 2014, Efficient, High Performance Buildings for Developing Economies, Manila, Philippines • June 28-July 2, 2014, ASHRAE Annual Conference, Seattle, Washington • September 10-12, 2014, ASHRAE/IBPSAUSA Building Simulation Conference, Atlanta, Georgia ASHRAE claims that the peer-reviewed papers and presentations will highlight the latest developments in the industry and fundamental tried and true practices, with topics ranging from high-performance buildings to buildings that have combustion with low-grade fuels, presented in a noncommercial format. In addition, the events offer Professional Development Hours and networking opportunities.

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Today, we renew our pledge to provide you with products and services to face the ever changing demands of the building industry.

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September 2013

5/20/13 4:06:44 www.climatecontrolme.com 25 PM

country report

iraQ

The potential of Iraq as a growth hub for the HVAC industry is being much talked about. If it can create a more conducive business environment, backed by an aggressive push towards better services, the country promises to be an attractive market for industry players. Jerome Sanchez has the story.

i Iraq has been a story of growth and challenges in the past decade. In spite of the numerous trials that hounded the country, Iraq continues to be resilient.

Government-initiated and direct foreign investments in the country, predominantly in infrastructure and social services, are positively affecting the image of the business environment in Iraq.

Once deemed a futile exercise, doing business in Iraq is now 26

slowly becoming attractive to a good number of industry players.

Entering Iraq to do business, however, may require tenacity and a great deal of motivation, as challenges and hurdles still prevail. Despite the acknowledged barriers to the growth of the market in the country, industry players remain optimistic and confident that their business strategies and the observed economic awakening will keep their companies, and their aspirations, buoyant.

SiZiNg uP The MaRKeT: a COMPLeX eXeRCiSe Estimating the market size of the HVAC sector in Iraq is proving to be difficult for the industry insiders. While admitting that the country’s current requirements for a

Climate Control Middle East September 2013

The observed lack of regulations and the perceived deficiency in consumer information are two of the biggest obstacles to the development of the HVAC sector in the country

comprehensive rebuilding programme and the several investment initiatives in electricity, housing and other infrastructure projects bode well for the HVAC industry, companies still find it challenging to peg a particular value in order to compute the extent of the market in Iraq.

“There are growing requirements for public housing and infrastructure in the country, which have resulted in a strong need for a comprehensive reconstruction programme,” says Claude Allain, Vice President & General Manager for Middle East, Johnson Controls (JCI). “Sustainable growth opportunities exist in housing, transportation, health, education, provincial development and general construction, all of which are targeted key growth areas for the HVAC industry.”

September 2013

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country report

IRAQ

Despite these positives, Allain says that high project cyclicity and lack of timely project execution precludes the formation of a mature annual market pattern.

In addition, he says that security concerns, in-country transportation challenges and multiple channels through which HVAC goods enter the country compound the difficulty in making an accurate assessment of the size of the HVAC market.

Jafar Syed Imam, Senior Regional Manager, RLC, Middle East and Africa, AHICarrier, concurs with Allain, when he says that coming up with a value to estimate the size of the HVAC market in Iraq may be misguiding and may not portray the true status of the sector in the country. “Market size today is built on several key indicators, like weather, demographics, financial affluence and availability of electricity,” says Imam.

Furthermore, he sounds a warning that, despite the heralded growth of the HVAC market in Iraq, owing to the reported infrastructure projects in the coming years, one has to be cautious and analytical when dealing with estimated market values, as market insecurity, lack of accountability and technical expertise in the execution of projects, and low project completion rates may still exist in the country. He, however, expresses optimism when he says that, in the next few years, the magnitude of the development projects in Iraq may resemble that of the UAE or of Saudi Arabia.

Jones Wu, Regional Manager, Middle East, Gree Electric Appliances, is of the opinion that the unstable security and political situation in some of the major cities in Iraq render it difficult to make any indicative estimate of the HVAC market size.

Nevertheless, he admits that there is a big potential for the market in Iraq, owing to 28

Claude Allain

Ajit Chandraraj

Several brands, at times offering poor quality products at incommensurate prices, present stiff, and sometimes unfair competition, to established brands sizable investments from the Iraqi Government and from foreign entities.

A CLOSER LOOK AT THE GROWTH DRIVERS

Menhel Hussein

Jafar Syed Imam

Ali Mouazen

Climate Control Middle East September 2013

Though the industry players may have reservations in giving even an indicative value of the HVAC market in Iraq, they are unanimous in saying that market growth is on the horizon.

The substantial government investment in infrastructure projects in Iraq is regarded as one of the foremost drivers for the growth of the HVAC sector in the country.

Ali Mouazen, General Manager, Middle East, AFKA Group, observes that the Iraqi

building sector is currently recuperating from the effects of the war and of the economic slowdown, and that signs of recovery are evident. He says: “Erbil and Baghdad, the two growth centres of Iraq, are driving the revival process of the construction industry with optimistic growth plans. With the resurgence of construction activities in Iraq, derived demand for the construction sector, such as for MEP services, is also anticipated to upsurge in the coming years.” He points out that, as HVAC services form a significant component of MEP services, the demand for HVAC equipment is also expected to soar in the future.

Mouazen provides details of a current housing plan approved by the Iraqi government: “The country aims to build approximately three and a half million homes within the next 10 years … and a USD 70-billion housing reconstruction package [has already been] announced.

There are more than 303 construction projects to be announced in the upcoming months. In addition, there are 175 projects under construction in different categories, including commercial, educational, government and hospitality, to name a few.”

Marcus Schumacher, Regional Executive Director, Engineered Systems & Industrial Refrigeration, Johnson Controls, also speaks about housing projects in the country as he reveals that the Iraqi Ministry of Construction & Housing recently entered

An Ecolab Company

country report

IRAQ

THE CHALLENGES TO MARKET GROWTH

PwerTalk

Industry players comment on the perceived instability in energy supply in Iraq, and share their views on how their companies are helping mitigate the issue. Here is what they say….

Jafar Imam: With not more than eight to 10 hours of electricity available in prime cities in central and southern Iraq, innovative and efficient products become an integral part of the product mix and market dynamics….

Marcus Schumacher

Imad Taha: We have a lot of products which can work according to load on the system and can consume power based on the load. This will improve the efficiency of the system and make it consume less power….

Jones Wu: It is quite common to use electricity generators as standby power supplies for buildings. So, when we design AC products for the Iraqi market, we add additional protection device to avoid any damage that may be caused by the frequent on-off of the power supply….

Marcus Schumacher: Our products employ very robust electrical systems which can withstand considerable electric fluctuations. Moreover, most of our chiller products, water-cooled as well as air-cooled, use VSDs that operate with optimum energy efficiency in a wide voltage range and rectify, filter and invert power back into the system in order to provide a superior quality power to the motors….

Imad Taha

Ali Mouazen: AFKA Group provides DC inverter air conditioning systems which operate at low amperes (varies from 2 to 4 amperes) and consumes less power, taking into account the cost of living conditions….

into an agreement with UN-Habitat, with the aim of easing the shortage of private housing in the country, which currently stands at around three million units. He also points out that the Ministry of Health is targeting significant investments in the health sector. “Benchmarking Iraq’s current hospital infrastructure with the World Bank’s past reviews of three beds per 1,000 citizens in developed countries, the number of hospital beds in Iraq needs to at least double, if not even triple, in the near foreseeable future.” The developments in the two sectors alone, adds Schumacher, will definitely translate into future requirements for HVAC solutions.

Wu seconds Schumacher and adds that in his view, 30

the revenues from the country’s abundant oil and gas reserves enable the government to invest in infrastructure, rebuild cities and construct houses for the country’s population.

Aside from investment in construction projects, the 2010-2014 National Development Plan in Iraq, says Imad Taha, CEO, Royal Cool, also includes creation of new jobs and improvement in non-oil sectors. “The growth of nonoil sectors will be dependent on the reconstruction and development of decrepit infrastructure throughout the country. Improving electricity generation capacity, which currently stands at around 60% of the estimated demand, is also critical to the growth of non-oil sectors,” he explains.

Climate Control Middle East September 2013

Jones Wu

Focus is the absolute key to be able to help our customers achieve their goals in such market environments

Despite the fact that there are manifold drivers for the growth of the HVAC sector in Iraq, several challenges still affront the industry.

Imam points out that the observed lack of regulations and the perceived deficiency in consumer information are two of the biggest obstacles to the development of the HVAC sector in the country.

“Since the air conditioning market in Iraq is still in its nascent stage ... there is a lack of regulations, and customers are less informed on the attributes they should be careful about when they make their purchases,” he says. He reveals that there are many equipment, and at times even fake products, on offer in the Iraqi market.

And with limited purchasing capabilities and inadequate information on quality HVAC products, Iraqi customers are price-sensitive. “As regular top brands cannot compromise on their ethics, quality and product rating, they often find it an uphill task to compete against the unethical practices of the lesser known OEM brands,” says Imam. “This market has yet to do a complete circle, where customers have enough experience to differentiate between quality and good products against inferior ones.”

“This challenge,” says Taha, “started when [the government] opened importation without control, in 2003, allowing access to various products, including shoddy and cheap ones. The goal of these importers is to profit in any form, and because of hard economic conditions during that time, people chose to buy those products….”

Menhel Hussein, Sales Manager, Royal Cool, shares more details: “After the war, Iraq opened its borders, and anything was allowed to enter with very little

checking….

In my opinion, some traders, during that time, were greedy and were only looking for fast [profits].” In time, however, he observes that, with the improvement in the supply of electricity and with the progress of the Iraqi families, consumers in Iraq began to shift their priority from price to quality. “They realised that they have the money and that they need to enjoy [the benefits] of good

products.”

Mouazen makes the same point, and observes that several brands, at times offering poor quality products at incommensurate prices, present stiff, and sometimes unfair competition, to established brands. “This unfair competition pushed

some of the well-known brands to decrease their prices, thus decreasing their quality,” he elaborates.

Wu agrees with these observations and adds that with the absence of government regulation or quality assurance standards for HVAC products, his company finds it difficult to compete with the pricing of lowprofile players, particularly because the customers in the country do not give that much premium to quality.

In addition to the proliferation of products of inferior quality, Imam says that the observed lack of technical know-how and exposure to evolving technologies on the part of engineers and after-sales personnel is another big obstacle.

September 2013

Wu sheds light on this.

In his opinion, good quality engineers are scarce in Iraq, because most of the local engineers may have left the country due to the unsafe situation. On the other hand, bringing in HVAC technicians and engineers from other countries, such as Lebanon and Syria, could prove to be expensive, owing to considerations in line with the country’s precarious security situation.

In Schumacher's opinion, the level of business friendliness varies across the country and security considerations remain a concern. “Security measures, which have to be taken, exponentially add to project cost, which most companies tend to ignore when setting required project budgets.”

Imam agrees and says: “Political instability,

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country report

IRAQ

insurgency and sectarian violence have literally damaged the business environment and are real obstacles to a serious growth, as investors cannot scale up their businesses to desired levels. Caution takes precedence over aspirations.”

STRATEGIES TO CONQUER THE MARKET

Thriving through manifold challenges is the foremost concern for the industry players operating or supplying in Iraq. “Focus is the absolute key to be able to help our customers achieve their goals in such market environments,” Allain says. In order to overcome the complexities of doing business in Iraq, Allain says, Johnson Controls selects the right partners who share its commitment to business integrity and ethics, and chooses the right opportunities to work on.

In addition, he says that his company operates with a strong compliance team in the region, which remains an integral part of the bidding and execution process.

On the other hand, reaching out to the market was the strategy employed

by AHI-Carrier, reveals Ajit Chandraraj, General Manager, RLC. He says that the company ran a massive 360-degree campaign to introduce itself and its products. “We packed our campaigns with quality products and offered our customers value for their money," says Chandraraj.

"We built multiple tiers … and we gave our customers a huge product basket.” This, he claims, ensured that even clients with tight budgets could purchase its products, and that the premium customers would get the best products his company had to offer.

He says that, in line with choosing the right distribution partners in Iraq, his company also organised technical 32

lectures, training sessions and seminars all over Iraq, in addition to special courses conducted at its headquarters in the UAE and at other training facilities across the world.

Launching information campaigns was also the strategy employed by Gree, as Wu admits, like in other Middle East countries, customers in Iraq have prejudice against Chinamade products. “It was a big challenge to convince these customers to try our products at the beginning, when we entered this market,” he says. In order to encourage Iraqi customers to accept its brand and products, his company launched several advertising campaigns through billboards and television commercials, to build a positive image of the brand, he reveals. Apart from these strategies, in order to establish a good engineering team in Iraq, his company’s local partner invested a considerable amount of

Climate Control Middle East September 2013

The broad market requirement for HVAC equipment in the entire Middle East region is strongly tailored towards harsh operating conditions, which also exist in Iraq money to recruit professional engineers from Lebanon, and sent them to Gree’s Global Training Centre to take full training courses on its HVAC products and solutions. After completing the course, the engineers went back to Iraq to educate the local dealers, engineers and technicians.

Speaking about the AFKA

Group, Mouazen says that his company’s strategy lies in bidding on and supplying new technologies, such as VRF systems, ducted units and chillers, to newly constructed residential and government buildings. His company, he adds, is also looking to cooperate with investors in Iraq in order to build strong business relations and to secure bigger market shares with highquality products.

TECHNOLOGIES ON OFFER IN IRAQ

“Due to inaccurate forecasts and predictions of market size and requirements,” says Schumacher, "it is understandably not viable for companies to develop special product offerings for the Iraqi market.”

However, he says that the broad market requirement for HVAC equipment in the entire Middle East region is strongly tailored towards harsh operating conditions that also exist in Iraq. He reveals that, similar to other

parts of the Middle East, his company, Johnson Controls, offers its complete range of YORK HVAC solutions and METASYS building management systems, including unitary products, standard and customised air-side products, all VSDoperated chiller products and, if required, vertically integrated standalone modular packaged chiller plant turnkey solutions.

Speaking about the AFKA Group, Mouazen says that, after finding the right agent, his company is ready to import its commercial, light commercial and residential equipment to Iraq. He also sheds light on the new import rules set by the Iraqi government and informs that it is now necessary to present a third-party report indicating that the HVAC products are suitable to operate at a temperature of 56°C, among other parameters.

Wu reveals that Gree is planning to launch in

Iraq its fifth-generation VRF technology, which is based on full DC inverter technology. He highlights that the new VRF system is especially designed for wide-voltage operations.

He claims that the inverter compressors and electrical inverter motors of the new VRF system are designed with soft-start technology, which can extend the lifetime of the units under frequent power failures.

Imam shares the information that his company’s VRF units and inverter-based residential systems are widely used in Iraq. He says that in Kurdistan, for example – a region more affluent compared to other parts of Iraq – VRF systems have increasingly become popular. In Baghdad and in other prime cities, adds Imam, VRF and inverters are progressively being accepted, along with chilled water systems.

Royal Cool, says Taha, is looking to introduce solar-powered systems and equipment with DC compressors. He says that in general his company is looking to provide products that are specified for Iraq’s climatic conditions to deliver the best possible performance.

penetrating and influencing local business practices, he foresees that corporate governance and compliance will become a positive differentiator for Johnson Controls, as is the case in other countries. “It is clear,” he says, “that Iraq will be one of the fastest growing markets in the coming decade, and the young population base, combined with a relatively rapid population growth, will form a sustainable growth platform for years to come.”

Adds Mouazen: “The government of Iraq has recently stabilised, so the wider economic and market fundamentals are becoming healthier.” He notes that the country’s strong economic performance can be attributed to the prominence of its oil and gas sector,

to the upsurge in foreign direct investment and to an increasingly active labour force. “The opportunities for investment and growth in Iraq are clear, especially in the HVAC industry," says Mouazen. "With the right management, a business can maximise on these opportunities and achieve market expansion by providing best quality and prices,” he elaborates.

Says Imam: “Iraq is going to witness elections in the beginning of 2014, and this will certainly have its reflection on the country’s economic reforms.” Imam expresses his hope that after the election, political stability would be established, and that core community welfare and sectarian issues would be addressed, putting the nation on the path of progress.

CONCLUSION

Despite the challenges and reservations that they have brought to light, the industry players express their optimism about the potential of Iraq to become one of the major growth areas for the HVAC industry. Allain says that increased stability will attract additional foreign investment. “Additional foreign investment will augment existing local presence, which will create a significant growth momentum in Iraq,” explains Allain. With more international investors September 2013

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focus

grilles and diffusers

Beauty with a purpose By introducing innovative features and integrating new components, manufacturers are out to prove that there is more to grilles and diffusers than meets the eye. Jerome Sanchez has the report.

A

An even distribution of air in an indoor space, coupled with a quiet and acoustically non-distracting operation of an HVAC system, ensure a considerably high level of occupant comfort.

HVAC diffusers are vital in this regard. Produced in a variety of shapes and sizes, diffusers ensure the correct introduction of air into a space, precluding the possibility of having localised hot or cold spots in the given area. In addition, diffusers 34

also help in reducing the velocity of the incoming airflow, thus reducing the noise that a system creates.

In recognition of the important role that diffusers play in a built-environment’s mechanical ventilation system, manufacturers focus their R&D efforts on ensuring that their products help in the maintenance of a pleasant indoor environment and occupant comfort. As with other HVAC components, grilles and diffusers have evolved and over time, as the market becomes more discerning and the regulatory requirements more stringent.

a geNeRaL View OF The gRiLLeS aND DiFFuSeRS MaRKeT The observable increase in construction activities in the region has encouraged the growth of the HVAC sector in the Middle East. Yannick

Climate Control Middle East September 2013

Yannick Applasamy

Saad Ali

Applasamy, Marketing Manager, Aldes, shares his view that the market segment for grilles and diffusers remains constant, owing to the resilience of the Middle

The correct selection of the air distribution system and equipment is a key aspect in ensuring that required design conditions are met and maintained in the occupied zone East’s construction sector.

“The abundance of ongoing construction projects has helped maintain key demand for these products,” he says.

Saad Ali, Group General Manager, Ruskin Titus Gulf, also sees growth in the sector, albeit slight, particularly in the second half of the year. “We also see a healthy

competition in this sector, which is always welcome news for the end-users.”

Steven Gobert, Export and Marketing Manager, Grada, says that the growth of the building sector, and the consequent increase in demand for HVAC products, compensate for the decline that the grilles and diffusers sector is experiencing in Europe. “At present, the market for grilles and diffusers is influenced by the aftermath of the financial crisis in Europe. The economy of the Eurozone, since the end of 2011, is in a recession, and we should expect a small growth only in 2014,” he says.

In addition to the growth of the construction segment in the region, Thomas Orr, Managing Director, TROX Middle East, believes that development of the grilles and

Steven Gobert

Thomas Orr

diffusers sector is also driven by the increasing awareness on the part of the HVAC industry on the importance of Indoor Environmental Quality.

“This is an area where TROX is able to add value to the HVAC industry – developers, architects, consultants and contractors – by educating building stakeholders as to what is required to achieve occupant comfort,” he says. He explains that the additional capital cost of utilising an air distribution supplier with tested and proven performance data often turns out to be negligible when considering the economic loss of having an incorrectly operating air distribution solution. “We have trained personnel that are capable of providing the necessary expertise to ensure that the correct result is engineered,” he claims.

a CLOSe LOOK aT The New FeaTuReS

In light of a more discerning market and more rigorous quality standards, grilles and diffusers manufacturers have ramped up their R&D efforts to introduce new features that will eventually prove beneficial to their end-users.

“Change, they say, is the only constant thing in life, and that goes for products as well,” says Ali. He cites the advancement of many bodies, such as BSRIA, ASHRAE and CIBSE, and architectural influences, as the precursors to the evolution of grilles and diffusers. Noise perception, he adds, has also had its impact on the overall design of air distribution systems, in terms of air pattern and technical selection. “We see more of the anti-smudging air diffusers on request, but [we] can’t ignore [that] the linear slots

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focus

Grilles and diffusers

that have special ceiling, architectural and throw features are in demand.”

Gobert notes that, over the years, the design of grilles and diffusers changed, but their fundamental function remained the same.

“Ventilation was not a big issue 40 years ago. Today, however, people want a pleasant environment to work, to shop or to relax.”

He sees that, in the future, light may be integrated in diffusers, and that there is a possibility of making diffusers function with sensors/ mechanics, allowing them to adapt to the conditions of a particular room.

“Aldes has placed key importance on the issue of air diffusion,” says Applasamy. He reveals that his company has invested a sizeable amount in R&D in the last few decades, which has resulted in the constant development of grilles and diffusers that have improved standards and aesthetic value.

“These items,” he continues, “are not mere accessories, but are essential components located at the forefront of any HVAC system. Choosing a highly efficient and durable grille and diffuser ensures maximum comfort in occupied zones.” He adds that his company offers over 200 grilles and diffusers in its catalogue and has also started promoting newer types of systems, including floor diffusers, displacement diffusers and twisting effect swirl diffusers.

Continuously developing its products, with 12 research and development centres worldwide, Orr says that TROX, in the last two years alone, has introduced swirl diffusers utilising the latest in polymer technology and construction techniques capable of handling higher airflows at lower pressure drops and noise levels. “We have also launched a line of aesthetically pleasing swirl diffusers … and have 36

 If the correct quantity of air is not maintained

Figure 1

Figure 2

Comfort can be achieved by implementing proper air mixing and utilising low air velocity system created displacement diffusers capable of meeting even the most demanding supply specification,” he adds.

GRILLES AND DIFFUSERS AND IEQ The correct selection of the air distribution system and equipment is a key aspect in ensuring that required

Climate Control Middle East September 2013

design conditions are met and maintained in the occupied zone. If the conditions are not fulfilled, then, Orr says that the air conditioning system as a whole fails if the end-user does not feel comfortable.

“While aesthetics are extremely important, as grilles and diffusers are the only part of the HVAC system that end-user will actually see, functionality is critical,” he points out. He says that, as regards grilles and diffusers, good indoor environmental comfort cannot be achieved if:  The occupant can feel a temperature difference between the supply air and the room temperature  The velocity with which the air moves across an occupant is too high  The noise levels are too high

“Manufacturers and suppliers,” he adds, “should have proven, tested data that allows the designer to actually select the correct air distribution equipment.”

He claims that his company can provide data on the actual conditions a user will experience in an occupied zone at design stage, thus ensuring that the grilles and diffusers selected can maintain occupant comfort bases on design conditions.

Ali shares the view that the contribution of grilles and diffusers in the maintenance of occupant comfort and of a good Indoor Environmental Quality lies in the sizing and designing of air distribution systems. He adds that the proper location of the units within the ceiling space is also important.

Offering a practical solution, Applasamy says that comfort can be achieved by implementing proper air mixing and utilising low air velocity system. “One example can be seen in the replacement of a simple square diffuser (Figure 1) with a twisted air diffuser (Figure 2), which shows the proper diffusion," he explains. "The difference in airflow pattern clearly improves the air diffusion and the air velocity in the occupied space.”

CONCLUSION

Today’s market has become more aware and has gained a deeper understanding of the function of grilles and diffusers. With a heightened consciousness about the importance of achieving good indoor environment in maintaining occupant health, productivity and comfort, consumers are slowly recognising that grilles and diffusers are more than just the “eye candies” of an HVAC system.

focus

VALVES

Winning in an

evalveing market In a constantly evolving market, highly affected by prevailing economic conditions, companies have to be prepared to device new strategies in order to respond to the changing requirements. Jerome Sanchez takes a look at the trends in the valves sector in the Middle East.

T

The reported increase in the number of industrial and construction projects in the Middle East provides a remarkable growth potential for the valves industry in the region. Industry experts believe that the valves sector will always find opportunities for expansion whenever and wherever there is a need to control, isolate or protect industrial processes. They point out that the main growth opportunities for valves lie in the oil & gas, construction and process industries, and note that the aforementioned industries include HVACR and building services projects, as well as large-scale applications like district cooling.

38

Ramakrishnan Bethoor, Product Manager, Econosto, estimates the value of the valves market in the Middle East to be between USD 5 billion and USD 6 billion, and says that with the support of the construction industry, the valves sector is expected to grow by four to five per cent annually.

Ozten Ismail Serhan, Sales Manager, Danfoss, shares his view that as the oil & gas market is already considered to be a “settled” market, much of the growth in valves sector will come from the HVACR segment and from district cooling demands. He adds that HVACR retrofit projects may also prove vital for the development of the valves segment.

The Gulf countries, particularly Qatar and Saudi Arabia, are widely seen as the major growth areas for valves. In Saudi Arabia, in particular, the valves and actuators market is expected to earn USD 2 billion by 2016 from approximately USD 1.2 billion in 2009. “Obviously,” says Serhan, “Saudi Arabia will lead the market demand.

Climate Control Middle East September 2013

The growing competition from low-cost valve manufacturers could spur major near- and long-term issues in the market But, we cannot ignore all investments [happening] in Qatar.” Bethoor seconds this view and says that the major construction projects under way in The Kingdom will propel the sector.

Research and consultancy firm, Frost & Sullivan (F&S), supports this view. In a paper, titled “Middle East Industrial Valves and Actuators Market”, it reports that numerous industrial city projects are currently under construction across various Middle East countries, as part of efforts to diversify the economy from oil- and gas-dependence, as well as to provide jobs to burgeoning populations.

Egypt, Oman and Iraq are other growth areas mentioned by some industry players,

as they say that the valves sector is kept buoyant by the ongoing and planned projects on waterworks, infrastructure, climate control and oil & gas in these countries.

CHALLENGES TO THE VALVES SECTOR The recent economic downturn is seen to have facilitated the entry, and the eventual popularity, of lowcost valves, mainly sourced from China and India, in the Gulf and in the rest of the Middle East, as end-users have become price-sensitive due to limitations in their purchasing power. The aforementioned F&S report says that, among other factors, the growing competition from low-cost valve manufacturers could spur major near- and longterm issues in the market.

While industry players admit that new market entrants who are able to address market concerns on price may thrive, they say that the more established and experienced companies may still prove to be more flexible and adaptive to market changes. Speaking about what they think are their advantages over the newer entities, they explain that their products’ reliability

can offer reassurance and peace of mind to their clients, and that their companies are able to provide support and guidance to their customers, particularly in relation to maintenance cost calculations.

“The main challenge, in my view, is to convince investors to go for the right products,” says Serhan. He believes that developers prefer not to spend so much on valves because they are not “exposed” or seen, unlike a nice frame, a fancy tap or a shiny door.

Bethoor also speaks of the stiff competition from lowcosts valve manufacturers as the foremost challenge for his company, and adds that issues on securing funding, on the continuity of the market revival from recession and on politico-economic instability in other countries also pose hurdles to the development of the valves sector in the Middle East.

PRODUCTS ON OFFER

The challenge of competing with the new market entrants have prompted more established companies to aggressively develop and promote their products. “We are adding new technologies in relation to energy efficiency and green products [to our portfolio],” says Bethoor. He adds that his company offers air & dirt separators and WRAS-certified products, and sells standard and speciality valves, pipes and fittings as a complete package.

In terms of products that encourage a higher level of energy efficiency, Bethoor shares the information that his company has introduced a pressure-independent control valve (PICV) for HVAC applications from Broen, called Ballorex, that limits the excess flow in the FCU/ AHU and enables the pump to reduce energy consumption.

“This is a green product that comes with great advantages, like energy savings, savings on commissioning time, and ease of assembly and

balance,” he claims, and says that by using PICV in the terminal units (building side), one could minimise the effect of the delta T syndrome, the bane of district cooling projects.

Speaking on behalf of his company, Serhan says that Danfoss’ strategy is to highlight the benefits of its products and to prove the positive effect of the system even before customers buy them. “Danfoss constantly develops new technologies in every business unit," Serhan says. "For HVAC, our shining star is the pressure independent balancing control valve (PIBCV), called AB-QM, and precise actuators." He adds that AB-QM is a control valve that comes with a built-in pressure controller, with the design of the valve ensuring that the flow in the system remains ideal at all loads.

“The flow control of the AB-QM ensures stable room temperature, improved comfort, energy savings and reduced maintenance cost.

The AB-QM can be applied in fan-coil units, air-handling units and climate ceilings, he explains.

CONCLUSION

While it is true that the valves industry rides high on the observed revival of the construction sector in the Middle East, there is no denying that the market can still feel the effects of the economic uncertainty.

Owing to the limitation in purchasing capabilities, industry players observe that the market’s price sensitivity has paved inroads for low-priced products from new players. The more established companies, however, believe that as the market reaches its maturity, it will begin to recognise the merits of their products, which avowedly offer enhanced energy efficiency and considerable savings in lifecycle cost.

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September 2013 tiger90x271.indd 1

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Climate Control Middle East September 2013

acoustics

&vibration A Climate Control Middle East Supplement

September 2013

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acoustics & vibration

aCOuSTiCS

— whaT iS BeiNg MeaSuReD aND why iS iT iMPORTaNT? Acoustic issues can be mitigated by taking noise into account at the beginning of the design process and by preventing the problem rather than reacting to it once it occurs, says Rebecca Hogg.

e

veryone is affected by noise, but noise is often a secondary consideration when designing a building.

There are so many building constraints, that the best design for acoustics is not often the best design for other factors, such as temperature and comfort, and, as such, noise issues can occur once the building is occupied. By considering noise at the beginning of the design process and educating occupants at the end of the design process, noise issues within buildings could be minimised.

Common noise sources

Any moving or vibrating part in a product can produce noise, and this noise will vary with the operation of the product. For example, as a fan’s rotational speed changes, the noise produced by the fan changes. Some products contain one noise source while some products contain multiple noise sources. For example, in an air source heat pump the noise sources are the fan, the compressor and the pump.

Noise produced by a product will be transmitted through the air, and this is called airborne noise.

Sources of airborne noise include fans, compressors, pumps and motors.

Vibration is transmitted

42

Figure 1: Paths of noise transmission

through structures and may be radiated as noise by connected components; this is called structure-borne noise. Sources of structureborne noise include casing and ductwork.

Paths of noise transmission

Once the noise sources of a product have been identified, it is necessary to understand how that noise will be transmitted in a real-life situation. When a product is installed, noise can be transmitted through various different paths. Let

Climate Control Middle East September 2013

us consider a simple example of an air conditioning unit located in a plant room of a building that supplies air to the offices above, as shown in Figure 1.

The air conditioning unit produces noise which propagates through the room, as shown by the purple arrows emanating away from the unit.

This noise could cause disturbance to people working in the plant room.

Airborne noise can also be transmitted through the ceiling, causing disturbance to the occupants of the

ACCUrATE ACoUSTIC TEST dATA IS VEry IMporTAnT, AS IT wIll lEAd To An ACCUrATE noISE IMpACT ASSESSMEnT

accordance with standards such as ISO 10816. This type of testing can be used for operational monitoring, acceptance tests and diagnosis of potential failures. Vibration levels are a strong indication of how a machine will perform over time, and tests can be carried out to determine if specific components, such as bearings, are likely to fail.

Figure 2: Sound power levels for an air source heat pump

Figure 3: One-third octave band centre frequency sound power levels

offices above. The air conditioning unit may be supplying air to the offices, and airborne noise will propagate through the ductwork and into the offices. If the duct is lined or if an attenuator is installed, then the noise will be reduced as it travels along the ductwork.

The air conditioning unit can also cause structureborne noise, as shown by the red arrows. If the unit is installed with antivibration mounts, structureborne noise into the floor of the plant room will be reduced. Depending on the installation of the ductwork, structure-borne noise can also be transmitted through the ductwork.

Standard testing Most sound tests fall into one of three categories – sound power, sound transmission and sound absorption.

For heat pumps, air

Importance of test data

Accurate acoustic test data is very important, as it will lead to an accurate noise impact assessment of the product for a particular site.

This means that the product will be successfully installed and no unforeseen noise issues should occur.

On the other hand, inaccurate acoustic data, where the product has not been tested at appropriate operating conditions or a suitable test standard, can

lead to an inaccurate noise assessment and ineffective mitigation. Once the product is installed, it is more likely to receive noise complaints and, then, additional noise assessments and mitigation may be required. This can be a lengthy and costly process.

It is, therefore, essential to obtain robust, meaningful and reliable acoustic test data. This will allow installers to make a comprehensive judgment when selecting products for a particular site.

Typical acoustic data (Figure 2) shows the sound power levels for a heat pump operating at the standard rating conditions specified in EN 12102. The sound power levels are given for each frequency band and the overall A-weighted sound power level is 61 dB (A).

To put that into context, 61 dB(A) is slightly louder than a typical household appliance.

conditioners and similar products, the test standard is EN 12102, which refers back to EN 14511, and is specified for the UK MCS scheme and for the European EHPA Quality Label. This standard specifies how to determine the sound power level of a product, with particular emphasis on carrying out acoustic testing at set conditions, as the noise produced by a product can change with the operation of a product.

Products such as louvres can be tested in accordance with EN 10140 to determine the sound transmission through the product. Finally, building materials that are designed to absorb sound are tested in accordance with ISO 354 to determine the sound absorption coefficient of the material.

In some situations, it is also appropriate to carry out vibration tests, in

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noise produced by three products.

The blue line represents a product that produces a broadband noise – equal at all frequencies.

The green line represents a product that produces predominately low-frequency noise. The purple line represents a product that produces noise

acoustics & vibration

noISE FroM HVAC SySTEMS CAn bE ConTrollEd

by EITHEr MInIMISInG THE noISE AT SoUrCE or MInIMISInG THE noISE TrAnSMITTEd why measure frequency?

Why is it important to measure noise levels at different frequencies and not just provide an overall noise level? Frequency is used to describe the pitch of the sound being produced.

A low frequency is a low pitch, such as a bass drum, and a high frequency is a high pitch, such as a triangle. Figure 3 shows the

44

with higher noise levels in the mid-frequency bands.

Although these three noise sources will sound very different, the overall sound power level is identical at 71.7 dB(A).

If you were recommending product developments or mitigation once installed then being provided with just the overall sound power level would suggest you need to just choose mitigation that overall reduces the noise from the product. However, being provided with the noise level at each of the frequency bands means that developments and mitigation can be tailored to the individual product.

Some mitigation solutions work well to stop lowfrequency noises and some work well to stop highfrequency noise. Knowing the noise level in each frequency band enables costeffective mitigation to be implemented.

how can noise be reduced?

Noise from HVAC systems can be controlled by either

Climate Control Middle East September 2013

minimising the noise at source or minimising the noise transmitted.

Minimising the transmission of noise can be achieved by locating silencers in the ductwork, utilising acoustic louvres, installing anti-vibration mounts, and examining the building construction.

Minimising the noise at source can be achieved through product development. If an air conditioning unit has a particularly noisy compressor, this could be examined in an attempt to make it quieter. It is important to consider how the noise changes with the operation of a product. If a product is going to be operating at particular conditions (thermal, airflow, etc.) then it is essential that product development takes place under these conditions. Acoustic product development is very beneficial, because minimising the noise produced will minimise any noise mitigation required once the product is installed.

installation and commissioning

Once a product has been installed, there may be noise nuisance complaints. This may result in additional mitigation being required to rectify the issue. When dealing with noise nuisance, two key questions are: “Is the product installed correctly and is it making the expected noise?”

Poor product installation is often the reason for noise complaints and something as simple as ensuring casing has been tightly mounted can stop the noise nuisance.

Poor installation of building elements can result in higher levels of noise being transmitted, due to gaps or flanking noise paths through which the noise can be transmitted.

The level of noise, once installed, may be different from when it was tested.

This is often due to a change in the operation of the product. If fan speeds, air or water temperatures, and flow rates have changed, then the noise produced by or transmitted through a product will change. It is, therefore, important to carry out initial testing and product development at the operational conditions that the product is being specified for.

which is better – prevention or reaction?

Overall, acoustic testing is carried out for one of two simple reasons – prevention or reaction. Prevention involves carrying out acoustic tests on a product before it is installed, to qualify for a grant scheme, comply with the regulations or to develop a quieter product. Reaction to noise complaints is addressed once the product has been installed and, then, requires noise mitigation solutions.

When reacting to a noise issue, it is often difficult to carry out the solution that will best solve the noise issue within other constraints.

Preventing noise issues through initial testing and product development enables an understanding about the product and a chance to effectively deal with any noise issues early on. It also allows the right product to be specified for the right location and installations to be carried out successfully.

The writer is Senior Acoustician at BSRIA. She can be contacted at rebecca.hogg@bsria. co.uk

HVAC noise & vibration

control

Noise and vibration control of heating, ventilation and air conditioning (HVAC) systems is vital for providing comfortable and safe environments for occupants.

Excessive noise levels lead to poor communication, fatigue and stress. High noise levels can even cause hearing loss, especially when exposed for extended periods of time. Excessive HVAC noise and vibration is usually due to poor design, poor installation and sometimes poor maintenance.

Proper system design and equipment selection avoids the need for costly and disruptive remedial works.

Good design, coupled with carefully supervised installation and regular maintenance, including testing, is the most effective way to ensure that a building is free from noise and vibration problems.

Basic noise criteria

The most commonly used descriptors of HVAC noise are as follows:

NOISE CRITERION (NC):

The NC curves were established in the United States for rating indoor noise, and mainly from air conditioning equipment.

They consist of a set of criteria curves extending from 63 to 8,000 Hz which use a tangency rating procedure. The criteria curves define the limits of octave band spectra that

46

Saying that HVAC noise and vibration could be attributed to issues like poor design, wrong selection of equipment, incorrect installation methods and lack of maintenance, Edward Adamczyk demonstrates that proper care and attention during all stages of a project can help mitigate the problems. must not be exceeded to meet occupant acceptance in spaces. The NC rating can be obtained by plotting the octave band levels for a given noise spectrum against the NC curves. The noise spectrum is specified as having an NC rating, which is the same as the lowest NC curve, which is not exceeded by the spectrum.

NOISE RATING (NR): The NR curves are a set of internationally agreed octave band Sound Pressure Level (SPL) curves, based on the concept of equal loudness, as referenced in ISO/R 1996 (Acoustics – Assessment of noise with respect to community response). They represent the human’s perception of noise, where less annoyance is caused by low frequency noise than by higher frequency noise at the same sound pressure level.

Hence, higher levels may be tolerated for low frequency noise. The NR curves are slightly less sensitive at low frequencies and more sensitive at high frequencies than the corresponding NC curves. dBA (A-Weighted Noise Level: The sound pressure

level determined when using the frequency-weighting network A) The A-weighting network modifies the electrical response of a sound level

Climate Control Middle East September 2013

Noise limits The table below presents typical requirements from different international design standards and guidelines documents which advise on the maximum permissible noise levels in different room types: Room Type

dBA

Hospitality

 Guestrooms and suite  Meeting rooms and banquet spaces  Corridors and lobbies  Service and support areas

35 35 45 45

Health Care

 Patient rooms  Wards  Operating theatres  Corridors and lobbies

30 35 35 40

Residential

 Living spaces  Resting spaces  Bathrooms, kitchens, utility rooms

40 35 45

Commercial

 Cellular offices  Meeting rooms and executive offices  Open plan  Corridors and lobbies

35 30 40 45

Religious

 Main praying / assembly halls

35

Education

 Classrooms  Large lecture rooms with sound reinforcement  Large lecture rooms without sound reinforcement  Laboratories

30 30 25 35

meter so that the sensitivity of the meter varies with frequency in approximately

the same way that the sensitivity of the human hearing system varies with frequency. As the human ear has a non-linear frequency response, it is less sensitive at low and high frequencies and most sensitive in the mid-frequency range between 1 kHz and 4 kHz. The A-weighting is applied to measured or calculated SPLs so that these levels correspond more closely to the response of the human ear. A-weighted SPLs are often denoted dB(A) or dBA or dB LA. It has been found that, in the majority of cases, the difference between the dBA level and NC/NR curves is approximately 5 to 6 units, i.e. NC/NR 25 ≈ 30/31 dBA.

HVAC system noise assessment

Noise assessments for HVAC systems involve the examination of the source (equipment) and its transmission paths to a receiver point (noisesensitive space). There are multiple paths, which include the supply, return, and noise breakout from the equipment casing. It is paramount that all noise (and vibration) paths are reviewed and assessed.

Since noise takes the path of least resistance, even a small acoustic weakness in a system will significantly

affect the noise level generated in a space. Any short-circuiting of vibration will similarly result in structure-borne transmission, which can subsequently be re-radiated as airborne noise in a space.

The following is a list of common noise and vibration issues:  Wrong selection of equipment  Insufficient space for implementing noise control, such as duct attenuators  Incorrect locations for attenuators and duct fittings, which increase airflow generated noise  High velocities in ducts, which increase airflow generated noise and cause duct vibration  Misalignment of ducts and flexible connections, which result in increased air turbulence  Poor balancing of systems with the overuse of dampers  Excessive vibration caused by inadequate vibration isolation of equipment and adjoining ductwork and pipework.  Poor sealing of service penetrations and open return air routes which cause crosstalk and reduce speech privacy between adjacent spaces  Lack of room acoustic treatments, which increase reverberation and accentuate the room noise levels  Flanking sound transmission around structures through indirect paths The above issues can be resolved by considering the following solutions:  Select low-noise equipment  Include sound attenuators, lined ducts/plenums and duct lagging  Design duct systems with smooth transition elements and correct air flows to minimise turbulence  Provide vibration isolation, as prescribed by the equipment manufacturers

and as per guidelines given

by ASHRAE and CIBSE  Clean areas after installation, ensuring that

there are no debris or temporary protectors still connected to the equipment and/or isolators  Select grilles, registers and diffusers with low pressure drops and low airflow velocities  Control crosstalk using lined ducts, return air boots or attenuators  Control flanking sound transmission at all junctions/interfaces.

Sustainable design

There are several sustainable design credit systems used around the world, such as BREEAM (Building Research Establishment Environmental Assessment Method) used in the UK, CASBEE (Comprehensive Assessment System for Building Environmental Efficiency) used in Japan, Green Star used in Australia, HKBEAM (Hong Kong Building Environmental Assessment Method), LEED (Leadership in Energy and Environment Design) used in the US and internationally.

In the UAE, the Green Building Regulations are used in Dubai, and Estidama is used in Abu Dhabi, while Qatar has the GSAS (Global Sustainability Assessment System).

The above assessment methods recognise the need for good control of acoustics, noise and vibration, which will result in additional credit ratings for buildings.

There are many acoustics products available on the

THErE ArE MAny ACoUSTICS prodUCTS AVAIlAblE on THE MArKET THAT HAVE bEEn dESIGnEd To MEET SUSTAInAblE bUIldInG rEqUIrEMEnTS, UTIlISInG rECyClEd MATErIAlS or wITH low lEVElS oF VolATIlE CHEMICAlS market that have been designed to meet sustainable building requirements, utilising recycled materials or with low levels of volatile chemicals. Acoustic consultants can use their knowledge of locally available materials and products to advise on such matters.

construction administration, site supervision and testing services. The overall result is a project that meets the client’s requirements, for which the contractors have fulfilled their obligations in achieving the design intent.

Conclusion

With proper care and attention during all stages of a project, acoustics, noise and vibration control can be achieved to avoid the problems highlighted in this article. An acoustic consultant appointed at an early stage can set appropriate standards for the project, ensure compliance with local codes and/ or international practices, prepare specifications, review tenders and provide

The writer is the Head of Acoustics and Principal Consultant at PMK International. He can be contacted at edward.a@ pmkllc.com

More on acoustics in the next issue.

September 2013

www.climatecontrolme.com

47

perspective UVGI

Owners of older buildings are catching up with the trend by considering air handler retrofits that include UVGI

UGVI for easier

maintenance and energy savings With the help of a case study and other supporting evidence, Mike Walrath demonstrates that UVGI use can significantly add to Indoor Air Quality and energy efficiency, especially in the MENA region.

48

Climate Control Middle East September 2013

M

ost people rightly associate ultra violet germicidal irradiation (UVGI) with airborne microbial disinfection and better Indoor Air Quality (IAQ).

However, UVGI is also increasingly gaining popularity as a green and better maintenance strategy used by many HVACR specialists in the Middle East North Africa (MENA) region in hospitals, schools, religious institutions, office buildings and other commercial facilities.

The rising interest in UVGI was illustrated last May at CPI Industry’s 1st Annual Middle East Indoor Environmental Quality Conference in Dubai, which featured a conference lecture on UVGI and an exhibition area showcasing several UVGI products.

While many building owners may not be aware that their consulting engineer has specified UVGI systems, they enjoy a significant reduction in HVAC system energy and

maintenance costs compared to other similar facilities that don’t feature UVGI. Owners of older buildings are catching up with the trend by considering air handler retrofits that include UVGI, because maintenance and increased efficiency cost savings typically result in a payback of less than two years.

The MENA region has high outdoor humidity, which can lead to mould growth on the coils and interior surfaces of HVAC systems. The air conditioning circuit condenses moisture out of outdoor and return air that creates an ideal environment for mould to grow. This increases facility operating costs because either an outside contractor or the building maintenance staff must periodically remove it. Additionally, a film of coil-covering mould reduces the heat transfer process and air velocity across the coil, which in turn, reduces system efficiency and increases energy costs.

On the other hand, UVGI supplements the green mission of commercial facilities by preventing

Coils with UV light

Coils with mould

mould and other biological contaminants from growing inside HVAC systems.

A case study

Case studies of commercial buildings that have tracked maintenance schedules before and after installing an UVGI system provide documented proof of the technology’s effectiveness.

For example, four years ago, engineers and architects of Junction City, Kansasbased Geary Community Hospital’s (GCH) USD 34 million expansion specified an HVAC design with UVGI

systems that would reduce maintenance costs, increase energy efficiency and provide superior IAQ. Four years later, the predictions by project MEP consulting firm, Henderson Engineers, in Lenexa, Kansas, and architect Hoefer Wysocki Architects, in Kansas City, Missouri, were confirmed by Steve Rippert, CHFM, GCHs Director of Maintenance.

The 95,000-square-foot expansion’s four air handlers and dedicated dehumidifiers reportedly haven’t needed coil cleaning during four

years of monthly checks.

This is in comparison to other hospitals that don’t use UVGI systems, which typically require HVAC system cleaning costing thousands of dollars in labour and materials annually. Additionally, coil cleaners contain biocides and other toxic chemicals that are sometimes difficult to completely rinse and which may also pose a risk to the building’s IAQ. “We’ve seen the effects of no UV lights in older HVAC systems,” said Shane Lutz, PE, LEED AP, BD+C, CHFM, Principal, Henderson Engineers. “And there’s a tendency for coil microorganism growth that you definitely wouldn’t want distributed throughout a critical environment such as operating rooms or any other healthcare environment.”

One can say that UVGI use adds significantly to IAQ in the expansion’s critical environments, such as the 15,000-square-foot surgery suite. The expansion’s five air handlers use 32-inch-long UV lamps manufactured

by Fresh-Aire UV, Jupiter, Florida, which are installed in modular racks affixed to the supply side of every coil.

GCH’s UVGI is part of an HVAC system anchored with a conventional fourpipe chiller and boiler loop concept. Besides UVGI, Lutz and Henderson Engineers’ Project Designer Jared Wagner, PE, LEED AP, BD+C, mechanical engineer, incorporated a host of other IAQ healthcare design strategies supplementing the UVGI:  High-Efficiency Particulate Arrestor (HEPA) filters manufactured by Camfil Farr, Jonesboro, Arkansas  A 100-tonne dedicated outdoor air dehumidifier

by Munters, Selma, Texas, which enables surgeons to quickly and easily set

temperature and humidity at 65°F (18.3 degree Celsius) and at 30%.  Linear stainless steel ceiling Hospital Operating Room Diffusers (HORD) systems manufactured

by Price Industries, Atlanta, that create an enveloping air curtain and prevents any unwanted air infiltration into the immediate operating table area.

Eliminating biological growths can result in an up to 30% cooling capacity increase compared to a dirty coil These technologies put together helped the facility surpass guidelines for healthcare mechanical engineering design by the Facility Guidelines Institute (FGI), Dallas, and Standard 170 – “Ventilation of Health Care Facilities” – of ASHRAE, Atlanta.

Higher efficiency, increased air velocity

Studies prove that clean coils are also more efficient in heat transfer. Just a 0.002-inch-thick bio-film on coils can reduce the free area and increase air velocity up to nine per cent. This also leads to an increased blower electric load. The result is a system with higher static pressure across the coil for

September 2013

www.climatecontrolme.com

49

perspective UVGI

UVGI should be considered in all planning stages for future buildings and as a retrofit option for existing HVAC systems which it was designed.

Therefore, eliminating biological growths can result in an up to 30% cooling capacity increase compared to a dirty coil.

The California’s Energy Commission’s Public Interest Energy Research Program proved these premises in the study, "Advanced HVAC Systems for Improving Indoor Environmental Quality and Energy Performance of California K-12 Schools", prepared

by Energy Utilization Consultant, Morton H Blatt.

The study found that schools could cut maintenance “from use of UV-C lights to keep coils continuously clean, avoiding the laborious coil cleaning actions that will otherwise be required to return coils to a clean condition.” The study also said that energy benefits could “be provided by UVGI lighting that cleans cooling coils, reducing pressure drop, improving heat transfer and increasing system capacity, resulting in overall cooling energy savings.”

Florida Hospital tested UVGI devices and proceeded to roll out a

50

Florida hospital UV installation

retrofit programme that included many air handling units throughout its seven locations. As reported by a 2004 edition of Engineered Systems magazine, Firouz Keikavousi, a mechanical engineer in charge of facilities management for Florida Hospital, Orlando, Florida, first tested UVGI on a 27-year-old, 6,000cfm air handler that had a visible buildup of mould and a coil that was clogged by approximately 50%. Within weeks of retrofitting with UVGI, static pressure over the coil decreased from 1.8 to just 0.7-w.g., air velocity doubled from 230 to 520-fpm, and wetbulb temperature supply air improved from 57°F to 53°F. (13.8 degree Celsius to 11.6 degree Celsius) Keikavousi calculated the capacity increase

Climate Control Middle East September 2013

to be 95,245-Btuh or approximately 7.9 tonnes of air conditioning or a total annual savings of USD 4,867.

Multiplying those figures by the many air handlers at other Florida Hospital locations, Keikavousi estimated yearly energy savings could easily surpass six figures.

The savings figures don’t include the fact that mould did not reappear, which means more savings with reduced maintenance.

stages for future buildings and as a retrofit option for existing HVAC systems.

In fact, UVGI should be considered by any building owner looking to improve their energy savings and cut their bottom line operating expenditures.

UVGI’S relevance to MENA region

MENA is one of the most energy-conscious regions in the world. Green design and sustainability are major factors for Middle Eastern facilities, as the construction boom continues throughout the region. UVGI should be considered in all planning

The writer is the Commercial Products Sales Manager at Fresh-Aire UV. He can be contacted at mike@ freshaireuv.com

perspective COOLING TOWERS

ULTRASONIC

technology in cooling towers Ultrasound technology is an effective and environmentally friendly method to minimise chemical consumption and improve the efficiency of a cooling tower, says Ander Paz Blazquez.

In industrial installations, like cooling towers, where water is relatively warm and stagnant, biological growth can lead to major problems

L

ow-intensity ultrasound has been used for more than a decade in order to control algae and biofilm growth. Latest innovations have concluded that effective algae control is achieved through the use

52

of specific frequencies and amplitudes. These parameters need to match the natural resonance frequency of the algae and biofilm in order to control them effectively.

Biofilm is formed when bacteria starts attaching to a surface. The presence

Climate Control Middle East September 2013

of larger organisms like parasites, cyanobacteria and ciliates are thought to be influential in the multiplication of Legionella bacteria (Figure 1).

Algae are microscopic plants found in all types of aquatic ecosystems. Algae, along with aquatic plants

and zooplankton, are the base of the natural food chain. However, excessive algae growth can cause decrease in water clarity, light penetration and oxygen depletion. In industrial installations, like cooling towers, where water is relatively warm and stagnant, biological growth can lead to major problems.1 To ensure a continuous optimal operation and to avoid problems, it is indispensable to carry out regular water treatment and maintenance of the cooling tower. There are four problems commonly associated with water systems: Corrosion, scaling, fouling and microbiological contamination2. As bacteria and algae grow, they restrict the flow of cooling water, form an insulating film on the heat exchanger tubes leading to a loss of heat exchange capacity and cause equipment failure and energy wastage. Biofilm can also serve as host for the pathogenic Legionella bacteria. These bacteria can become aerosol and infect humans when they inhale them, causing severe pneumonia.

To minimise these issues, the water is usually filtered and dosed with antiscalants and algaecides3. However, large volumes of water and a wide array of different types of bacteria, spores and algae, require high doses of costly and harmful biocides, which can also have side effects on the other parts of the system.

For example, copper sulphate is corrosive at water pH below 6.5.4 Also, chemical treatments may have harmful consequences on workers and on public and environmental health

reduction by ultrasonic treatment lowers the probability of Legionella, because there is no suitable host available for the bacterium. It thus reduces fouling and growth of algae in the cooling tower and enhances the effect of chemical reagents, by increasing the reaction with solids in the water.

In general, by reducing bacteria, algae and biofilm formation, less biocide and algaecide is necessary in order to achieve good water quality and keep microbial counts within regulatory limits.ď Ž References 1 US Environmental Protection Agency (EPA). (1997). Profile of the Fossil Fuel Electric Power Generation Industry (Report).

Washington, DC Document No EPA/310-R-97-007. p 79.

Figure 1: Biofilm development stages

As bacteria and algae grow, they restrict the flow of cooling water, form an insulating film on the heat exchanger tubes leading to a loss of heat exchange capacity and cause equipment failure and energy wastage

2 Beychok, Milton R (1967).

Aqueous Wastes from Petroleum and Petrochemical Plants (1st Edition ed).

John Wiley and Sons. LCCN 67019834. (available in many university libraries) 3 http://www.guardiancsc.com/ pdf/biological_growth.pdf 4 http://www.clihouston. com/knowledge-base/somecommon-biocides-of-coolingtower.html Figure 2. Installation of an LG Sonic device

in cases of accidental spills and chronic chemical exposure4. Regulations for chemical storage, handling, and disposal are, therefore, becoming increasingly stringent, and skilled staff is usually required to monitor these.

As opposed to the use of chemicals, there is a growing trend within the water treatment industry to develop and use more

environmentally responsible technologies. Ultrasonic technology is one of them, and this has been used as a non-chemical solution to fulfill the environmental objectives required by regulatory entities. It helps reduce chemical consumption and achieve final water quality compliance.

This is how the technology works: Biofilm

September 2013

The writer is Sales Engineer at LG Sound.

He can be contacted at a.paz@lgsonic.com

www.climatecontrolme.com

53

perspective ENERGY MONITORING

The first step towards

cost savings Pointing out that nearly all buildings in the Middle East lack effective energy management, Michael Scriven recommends Web-hosted energy monitoring system as a tool to save energy and raise awareness about its use.

I

n light of the UAE’s Carbon Reduction Commitment, most large companies and organisations (including schools, hotels, hospitals and universities) are acutely aware of the need for responsible environmental practice. However, any drive to reduce energy consumption must begin with establishing where the problems lie.

54

Businesses across Europe are reducing their energy costs by 10%, 20% and even 30% through effective energy management practices that involve assessing energy performance, setting energysaving goals and regularly evaluating progress.

However, here in the Middle East, nearly all buildings have little or no effective energy management.

Climate Control Middle East September 2013

Meters are all well and good, but who reads them?

Who analyses the data?

Who identifies where energy cost savings can be made?

Organisations with large or multiple facilities want to be slicker than that. Automation is the obvious answer. However, capital outlay for in-house server-based systems can be considerable, not

to mention installation disruption and issues regarding compatibility with existing hardware and software. In such a scenario, low-cost Webhosted energy monitoring systems would make energy savings more accessible to a far wider user base, and would increase the awareness of energy use.

Web-hosted remote energy monitoring services are already proving big businesses with the latest generation of smart buildings for both new facilities and renovation projects. Until now, similar online tools have been restrictive in terms of meter compatibility, system complexity, cost and speed.

Also, the inflated cost being placed in the UAE’s market to remotely monitor your energy would nullify any savings achieved. Just because a cloud is being used it should not mean you have to pay sky-high prices.

When energy management costs are compared as a per cent of the total energy expenditures per factored gross square foot, it is interesting to note the relationship:  Organisations spending about two per cent of their energy budget on energy management have the lowest energy costs per factored gross square foot  Organisations spending one per cent or less of their energy budget on energy management have the highest energy costs per factored gross square foot  Organisations spending over five per cent of their energy budget on energy management negate any financial benefit of the energy saving

Organisations spending one per cent or less of their energy budget on energy management have the highest energy costs per factored gross square foot Gain control of energy costs The driver for energy monitoring is, therefore, clearly identified, but existing amity systems

have proven slow in the UAE market. Therefore, the demand for simpler, faster systems have led many vendors to develop new software products with easyto-use Web-hosted energy monitoring software suites.

Such systems are capable of providing detailed energy consumption profiles, audits and project management at the push of a button, without the need to purchase or install new software, thus facilitating cost-effective, quick and easy installation.

The beauty of these systems is that it can be used by anyone (including smaller companies or even home owners) -- in fact, anyone who needs a lowcost solution to keep track of their consumption data.

The user only sees a Web interface, where data is collected automatically from meters and analysed by these systems. Subsequent reports appear on the Web page in a user-friendly manner.

Transform data

Fulfilling the energy consumption needs of the end-user is far reaching. An efficient energy monitoring system not only helps compliance with energy efficiency, but it also provides a cost-effective and easy insight into consumption, highlighting and tracking inefficiencies, showing when and where energy has been used and providing validation of incoming invoices so that existing energy bills and tariffs can be double-checked. In short, it transforms energy data into useful management information.

By monitoring all energy flows throughout an organisation, it is estimated that such a system can provide annual energy savings of between 5% and 15% through greater energy consumption awareness, and by providing alerts to exceptional usage or spikes in consumption.

Energy ambitions

Efficient energy management is indispensable, not just as a result of rising energy costs, but also from a corporate social responsibility point of view. The tools help visualise, control and optimise an organisation’s energy ambitions, performance and usage.

They should, therefore, not be ignored, as they would prove to be the first step towards cost savings.

The writer is Business Development & Commercial Manager, Optima International LLC. He can be reached at: michael@optimain.ae.

KEY PERSPECTIVES ON THE

HVACR INDUSTRY

w it h ca Mo re te go re ri es fr ig th an er at everio nre be fo la te re d

2013

Your reference hub to the refrigeration industry in the Middle East

www.climatecontrolme.com

News DEWA’s new sustainable building opens p6

KSA launches solar power CPI Industry holds 1st Annual procurement program p8 Middle East VRF Conference p12 MFRI bags USD 27 m Jeddah

Feature: Qatar

Cool turns 10 p26

Interview: Greenheck p36 Global Workplace Innovation p38

PERSPECTIVE Saeed Alabbar on energy and sustainability p55

airport DC deal p8 AHG tests Fresh-Aire’s Spotlight: Pockets of resistance p56 www.climatecontrolme.com

News

DuPont helps nab illegal

refrigerant dealer p6

Empower urges developers

to adopt DC p9

APCO air purifier p16

boost for renewable p14 Trane opens compressor renewal HempelA launches new energies? solvent-free coating p10 facility in the Kingdom p15

Perspectives The green building conundrum p66 Focus: A close look at adhesives p54 Cooling towers:www.climatecontrolme.com Making the right selection p58 D-Code: Seal out the pollutants p40 acquires Analysing Saudi News Daikin Goodman p6 energy use p8 and mindsets p70 Plus: Marketplace, Comings&Goings Spotlight Unclogging filters

Perspective The value of hard data in building performance p62 Photo-feature: Round 2 of Refrigerants Review p30

State-of-the-industry

Ducting: Put

Distech,

report: Pumps p38 a robot on the Samsung enter partnership p18 Canada: Energised by innovation p46 job! p28

Intl panel calls GEA cracks for safeguarding Challenge” future of CDM p20 p15

NEwS – Neovia bags Trane Energy Efficiency Leader Award p08 Qatar to invest in solar energy plant p10 I Bitzer buys Lumikko’s transport cooling division p12 I AHR Expo survey results released p14

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Let's watch our footprints p26 England releases p16

Spotlight:

growth in the horizon? p30

Case-in-point: Being in control p60 Spotlight: Installation matters p68

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ASHRAE Update on The Big 5 Show Dubai p78 Event round-up: C3, Riyadh p34 PLUS: Marketplace, Event round-up: Perspectives

Case-in pool design solves IAQ issues p64 Plus: Marketplace, Comings&Goings News GEA introduces raspberry Case-in point: Creating a green dataPoint: centre: New p48 HVAC freezing technique p15 Perspectives: BMS and the art of long-term thinking p30 Heat insulation and triple glazing p40

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Plus: Marketplace, Comings&Goings, ASHRAE Update News Honeywell in counterfeit refrigerant INSIDE: Exclusive interview with Hannes Carl drive in Saudi Arabia p6 Downtown Dubai's new Borg, State Secretary, Perspectives The pros and cons of a modular AC Metro link Sweden, on the opens p8 chilled water plant p54 www.climatecontrolme.com country's sustainability standards p43 Focus: A breath of fresher air p30 Plus: Marketplace, ASHRAE Update with Jeremias p06 Focus: FCUs – Seeing Ecotherm announces tie-up

Report: Round 2 of

JCI appoints new COO p7

Refrigerants Review p34

News

ESIA and PwC publish solar

power survey results p14

DuPont expands solar energy use p24

Daikin celebrates 30 years of VRF Technology p8 Honeywell conducts seminar and workshop p10

Does Turkey have the key? p72 Plus: Marketplace, Comings&Goings

Marketplace, Comings&Goings

MARCH 2013

MEDIA CENTER, ZABEEL HALL

SEPTEMBER 2012 STAND NO.47

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STAND NO. 47

""WE ARE THE ""WE

SounD Soun SWEDENING SenSe en THE PARTNERSHIP

DECEMBER 2012

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‫ اململكـة العربيـة ال�سعوديــة و�سركــة هانيويــل ينجحــان فــي القبــ�ض على تهريــب موائــع تربيــد مقلــدة •افتتـــاح ج�ســـر املتــرو املكيــــف اجلديـــد فـي و�سط‬:‫االخبــار‬ ‫ احلل‬- ‫اال�ســــاءة نـــــوع ال�سمــام الثنائـــي امل�ســـع لل�سـوء‬:‫ ن�سمـــــــة هــواء منعـــــ�ض وجهــة نظــر‬:‫ كـــل واقت�ســـد تحـت المجهــر‬, ‫دبــي • اطــــالق حملــة فكـــر‬ ‫ مــع دكتـــور اك�ســـل‬:‫الغيــــر مكت�ســـف لتوفيـــر الطاقـــــــة • تطبيقــــــات نظـــــم هـــــواء التجديـــــد اخل�سو�سيــــة باملناطــــــق اال�ستوائيــــــة مقابلـــة صحفيــــة‬ ‫ اململكـــة العربيــة‬- ‫ الريا�ض‬- 3 ‫ موؤمتـــر �سي‬:‫ميكـــاوالوا عــــن �سهــــــادات تخفيـــــ�ض انبعاثــــــات الكربــــــون تقريـــر‬ ‫ حتديـثـــات جمعيـــــــة مهند�ســــــــي التدفئــــــــة والتهويــــــة والتكييــــــف االمريكيــــة‬:‫ال�سعوديــــــة أخـــرى‬

The need for a

‫ م‬2013 ‫ملحق الربع األول لعام‬

du-ing thingsNight the of

‫ملحق ربع سنوي جمللة كالميت كنترول الشرق االوسط‬

‫ملحـق إضافـي‬

A celebration of technology, innovation and expertise – the second annual Climate Control Awards.

GREEN ChAmpioNs WAYmpio

‫خريطة الطريق تخطو لألمام‬ ‫نظرة عن قرب لسياسات المملكة‬ ‫العربية السعودية الخاصة بالطاقة‬ ‫وأثرها على مستقبل المملكة‬

The Climate Control Awards 2012

A closer look at du’s energy management initiatives

"

PUBLICATION LICENSED BY IMPZ

A Climate Control Middle East Supplement

Ducts Fans and blowers Building performance Humidifiers and dehumidifiers Acoustics in district cooling plants

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VISIT US! Hall nUmber: 7

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Simple as they may sound, good design and right equipment selection are key to acoustic comfort in DCPs

The key to Sweden’s success in the HVACR sector lies in its strict regulatory framework, which has encouraged the development and implementation of environmentally friendly and energyefficient products and systems – a model the GCC region could consider emulating.

Features

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NOVEMBER 2012

OCTOBER 2012 SEE US AT THE

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A modest rise in figures recorded by Spain’s HVACR sector has led industry players in the country to hope that it is a precursor to a market surge.

Empower has begun work on two new District Cooling plants in Dubai’s Business Bay area. An exclusive face to face with Ahmed Bin Shafar, the CEO of the company.

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55

Spotlight This is the seventh in a multi-part, in-depth series on air filtration

The ideal start We seem to have several questions about Indoor Air Quality and the air filtration technologies that could be used to improve it. However, can the right answers be obtained by asking the wrong questions? Dr Al-Attar explains.

A Airborne particles are all around us. They come in many different forms, such as grit, dust, smoke, fume, or mist, not to mention smog and fog. Although we can’t see them, the air we breathe is full of microscopic particles. These particles can be health hazards and are, thus, considered a specific type of air pollution. An adult typically breathes an average of 10 litres of air per minute.

Therefore, a low concentration of airborne contaminant represents a large quantity of the contaminant entering the human body by inhalation.

Every day, billions of particles are inhaled with the ambient air by every human being.

Clearly, one cannot question the need for air filtration.

56

It is also important to realise that air filtration is not the only problem, and, therefore, it cannot be the only solution Air contaminants

There are numerous types of dust: mineral dusts, such as those containing free crystalline silica (quartz), coal and cement dusts; metallic dusts, such as lead, cadmium, nickel and beryllium dusts; other chemical dusts, like many bulk chemicals and pesticides; organic and vegetable dusts, such as flour, wood, cotton and pollens; and bio-hazardous dusts, such as viable particles, moulds and spores.

Climate Control Middle East September 2013

The two major classes of air contaminants are particulate and gaseous. The particulate class covers a wide range of particle sizes from dust that are large enough to be seen by the naked eye to the submicroscopic particles that escape most filters. These particles may originate from natural processes, such as wind erosion, sea spray

evaporation, volcanic eruption and metabolism or decay of organic matter.

Demanding the right answers by asking the wrong questions

We all demand realignment in the Indoor Air Quality mission to enhance it for our children and their children.

We also constantly ask

Figure 2: Scanning electron microscopic image of HEPA filter medium

Figure 1: Illustration of dust settlement on the depth and surface of the filtration medium

questions about possible improvements of existing and future applications. But how can we get the right answers if we start with the wrong questions? “How can we install a single-stage washable set of filters with minimum or no maintenance at all?” That, for example, is the wrong question to ask.

To put IAQ enhancement on the right track, several things have to change, one of which is our perception of the air filtration process. Figure 1 shows aerosol flow through a filtration medium and dust settled within the depth of the medium and dust cake development on the surface.

Instead of asking whether or not the filter is washable, the approach should start from basic principles and by asking the right questions:  What contaminants are we hoping to remove by installing a certain filter?

 How can we control and/ or eliminate the sources of irritants?  How can we appropriately select air filters for each specific application?

Understanding air filtration technologies and their correct applications is complex.

Yet, it is important to avoid costly mistakes for those less experienced in techniques of filtration. This can be facilitated by appropriately selecting filters for each application to operate most effectively.

Understanding the limits of air filtration While it is important to consider the relevant factors to improve Indoor Air Quality, it is also important to realise that air filtration is not the only problem, and, therefore, it cannot be the only solution. To fairly assess the performance of

Figure 3: Initial dust settlement on the depth and surface of HEPA filter medium

particulate air filters, factors such as lack of ventilation, indoor pollution sources, infiltration from window cracks and through doors cannot be ruled out. It is also important to understand that these filters are incapable of participating in odour control, in which case, a sorbent is required. Activated carbon filters immediately ring a bell in our minds when gaseous contaminants are addressed. While activated carbon filters are effective in removing certain gaseous contaminants, their effectiveness is limited to certain ones.

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Cost

There are three aspects to be considered as far as cost is concerned: initial purchase price, operation and maintenance. In fact, these costs depend on the operating flow-rate, filter class and the number of stages selected. But we cannot overlook the fact that air filtration is an on-going process, which highlights the importance of the operating and maintenance procedures.

The cost of such procedures is more pronounced in the GCC region, where sandstorms reoccur, which require greater attention. High winds in

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Spotlight

It is also important to realise that air filtration is not the only problem, and, therefore, it cannot be the only solution

Figure 4: Dust settlement on the coil of a fan coil unit after being protected by an aluminium; mesh filter

Figure 5: Same coil shown in Figure 4 after cleaning

Figure 6: Comparison between clean and dusty diffuser of the same fan coil unit shown in Figure 4

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desert regions and volcanic events are natural phenomena that cause high airborne dust concentrations, challenging the air filters in the HVAC systems. This can alter the dust deposition mechanisms and the overall performance of air filters (See Figures 2 & 3). Further, the consequences of using low efficiency pre and fresh air filters are evident on the coil and diffusers, as shown in Figures 4, 5 & 6.

Air filter installation in air-handling units requires sufficient access for inspection and maintenance. Eliminating leaks from ductwork, filter installation frames and/ or air handling doors are critical steps in order to avoid significant efficiency degradation. This becomes increasingly important when installing Absolute filters.

Further, a genuine effort should be made to ensure that irritants are not re-introduced into the airstream and, eventually, into the indoor space.

A final thought in terms of initial cost addresses the earlier inclusion of filtration requirements in HVAC design stage. This will prove invaluable if alternative systems are considered and compared, noting that the HVAC equipment and its energy consumption constitute the main part of the entire annual bill of the building.

Not only does an urban and indoor air environment

adversely affect people, but it also has devastating and costly impact on the performance of equipment or on the quality of some food and manufactured products, such as components for microelectronic applications and medical devices. Therefore, our obligation towards humanity to enhance the Indoor Air Quality for generations to come is twofold. One is moral, in order to prevent suffering and spread of disease caused by pollutants, and the other is legal, to ensure that everyone is committed to the implementation of professional practices that would lead us to ever improved Indoor Air Quality.

Whatever we do, we cannot escape our deeds, good or bad, right or wrong, useful or harmful. That is why, we are all responsible for our actions towards our planet and its environment. The responsibilities are shared amongst governments, academic institutions and the industry that is expected to take initiatives in participating in efforts to save the environment. The ideal start to this is to start right, and start right here.ď Ž NOTE: Unless otherwise referenced, the images used in this article are copyright of the author.

Dr Iyad Al-Attar is an Air Filtration Consultant.

He can be contacted at: iyad@iyadalattar.com