Greenheck’s eCAPS® online product selection program includes the Fan Energy Index (FEI) giving you a powerful engineering tool to select the best fan system for your application and help you select fans that meet or exceed ASHRAE 90.1-2019 and comply with state energy code requirements.
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Compare FEI metrics side-by-side with sound levels, performance, rst cost and operating cost data
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How does a 40 Under 40 winner balance work, innovation, community and family?
Read on for more. See page 7.
ON THE COVER:
The 2024 40 Under 40 winners represent some of the top talent in the building community. Courtesy: Consulting-Specifying Engineer
NEWS &BUSINESS
5 | No surprise, the 40 under 40 winners are passionate, stunning, brilliant
The industry’s best and brightest are highlighted as 2025 40 Under 40 winners.
BUILDING SOLUTIONS
7 | 40 Under 40
Read about the 2025 CSE 40 Under 40 winners.
22 | New parking garages must deal with more robust fire protection requirements
Understand the changing risk landscape in parking garages and how to properly apply new fire protection code requirements.
28 | Using chiller systems to maintain building temperatures
Several types of chillers, along with various pumping configurations, provide flexible and efficient solutions for cooling needs.
34 | ASHRAE 90.4 created to boost data center energy efficiency
ASHRAE 90.4 helps engineers move toward data center energy efficiency compliance.
38 | An in-depth look at the basics of lighting controls
Expanded understanding of line and lowvoltage wiring improves decisions between automatic and manual lighting controls.
ENGINEERING INSIGHTS
44 | How to design data centers for current and future uses
Four engineers discuss the current landscape of the data center industry.
SUNONDO ROY, PE, LEED AP, Director, Design Group, Romeoville, Ill.
JONATHAN SAJDAK, PE, Senior Associate/Fire Protection Engineer, Page, Houston
RANDY SCHRECENGOST, PE, CEM, Austin Operations Group Manager/Senior Mechanical Engineer, Stanley Consultants, Austin, Texas
MATT SHORT, PE, Project Manager/Mechanical Engineer, Smith Seckman Reid, Houston
MARIO VECCHIARELLO, PE, CEM, GBE, Senior Vice President, CDM Smith Inc., Boston
RICHARD VEDVIK, PE, Senior Electrical Engineer and Acoustics Engineer, IMEG Corp., Rock Island, Ill.
TOBY WHITE, PE, LEED AP, Associate, Boston Fire & Life Safety Leader, Arup, Boston
APRIL WOODS, PE, LEED AP BD+C, Vice President, WSP USA, Orlando, Fla.
JOHN YOON, PE, LEED AP ID+C, Lead Electrical Engineer, McGuire Engineers Inc., Chicago
No surprise, the 40 under 40 winners are passionate, stunning, brilliant
The industry’s best and brightest are highlighted as 2025 40 Under 40 winners.
Each year, Consulting-Specifying Engineer celebrates the next generation of industry leaders through the 40 Under 40 program — and 2025’s winners continue to impress with a blend of technical mastery, personal passion and deep-rooted purpose.
In many ways, this year’s class reflects a familiar and welcome trend: a commitment to sustainability and energy efficiency. It’s a mindset that is ingrained in building design and these professionals are planning smarter systems that reflect today’s realities. Whether working with decarbonization strategies or optimizing HVAC performance, these leaders are embracing their role as stewards of the built environment.
Amara Rozgus, Editor-in-Chief
appears — two winners count it as a way to recharge. A few others have launched their own podcasts, using their voices and microphones to amplify ideas, share insights and foster community beyond the office. Perhaps most inspiring is the universal commitment to giving back. Every single honoree volunteers — coaching and guiding, supporting STEM outreach or helping youth explore careers in engineering and construction. That spirit of service is not a sidebar to their success — it’s foundational.
What stands out this year, however, are the increasingly diverse paths these professionals are taking. This year’s group includes several lighting designers and data-focused positions — professionals who blend science, aesthetics and human well-being into every project. Their presence in this year’s group underscores the growing importance of data analytics, occupant-centered design and energy efficiency.
It's always fun to learn the more personal flourishes woven into this year's profiles, too. For the first time (that I can remember) since the program started in 2008, badminton
These leaders understand that shaping the future means more than designing buildings; it means investing in people. Per usual, several winners were nominated by previous 40 Under 40 winners, further extending the focus on mentoring and building on careers.
The 2025 class is exactly what our industry needs right now with all the political turmoil and uncertainty: passionate experts who care deeply about the systems they design and the lives those systems support. As we look ahead, I am excited to watch these professionals shape not just the future of engineering, but the culture that defines it.
Congratulations to this year’s 40 Under 40 winners! cse
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Congratulations to the 40 Under 40 Honorees!
We are thrilled to celebrate the rising stars named to ConsultingSpecifying Engineer’s 2025 40 Under 40 list. This honor recognizes some of the most talented young professionals shaping the future of engineering –and we are inspired by the dedication, creativity and leadership you bring to the industry each day.
Today’s engineering challenges demand new thinking, and the next generation of engineers is answering that call. By influencing the next wave of global megatrends, young leaders like yourselves are delivering smarter designs that make a greater impact on resilience, performance and affordability.
It’s clear the future of engineering is in strong hands. And, as a leading manufacturer of power management solutions, we look forward to continuing this collaborative, innovative and purpose-driven relationship for many years to come. At Eaton, we’re here to support you in shaping the future of engineering.
Congratulations once again to all the 40 Under 40 honorees. Thanks to Consulting-Specifying Engineer for spotlighting the exceptional contributions of these young professionals transforming our industry. Together, we are redefining what’s possible and what will power our world for generations to come.
Chris M. Finen, P.E. National Application Engineer Manager Eaton
2025 Winners
Erika Akins . . . . . . 10
Henry Baker 10
Chelseyann Bipat 10
Burns Bradford 10
Laura Brandt 11
Jake Canale . . . . . . 11
Amanda Carter . . . . . . 11
Anthony DiGirolamo . . . . . . 11
Gary Dominguez 12
Jeff Evers 12
Andriel Fenner 12
Brittany Fiema 12
Steve Flinn 14
Carolyn Gumbel
John Hagerty
Arif Hanif
14
14
14
Ben Hobbs 15
Lauren La Bella 15
Christina Lail 15
Danial Laiq 15
Dustin Langille
Kelli Mattingly
Donald Meyer
. . . . . 16
16
16
Romeo Michael 16
Justin Milne 17
Manav Mittal 17
Rami Moussa 17
Robby Oylear
Maddi Packard
. . . . . 17
18
Amanda Josefa Polematidis . 18
Chad Riggs 18
Jahnavi Sajip 18
Li-Anne Sayegh 19
David Shadpour 19
Ian Smith . . . . . . 19
Sushmitha Sudhir . . . . . . 19
Joseph Szczechowicz . . . . . . 20
Suzette Vasquez 20
Juli-Ann White 20
Andrew Wiese 20
How does a 40 Under 40 winner balance work, innovation, community and family? Read on for more
BY: GARY COHEN, SHERI KASPRZAK, AMARA ROZGUS, ANNA STEINGRUBER AND SARAH WYNN
In 2025, the 40 Under 40 program highlights the best and the brightest in diverse engineering disciplines, including electrical, mechanical, fire protection and architectural engineering. Many winners exhibit technical prowess in design, developing and implementing solutions for a wide range of building types. A significant number are driving advancements in sustainable engineering, focusing on energy efficiency, decarbonization and net-zero design. Their capabilities include the design of complex HVAC systems, electrical power distribution, lighting and fire protection systems. Their technical acumen allows them to address complex engineering challenges and deliver innovative solutions. The winners are engaged in a host of volunteer activities, fitness and spending time with family and friends, often enjoying hobbies and travel.
Consulting-Specifying Engineer
Erika Akins, PE, 36
Applications Engineering Manager, Southwire Co.; BS, Electrical Engineering, Auburn University
Akins’s ability to understand a product throughout its entire life cycle allows her to excel as an applications engineer. She uses her understanding of codes and standards, technical knowledge and sales expertise to help specify suitable products for an end user’s unique applications. Working across eight vertical markets — including renewable, data centers and factory automation — Akins strives to increase sustainable solutions for a variety of wire and cable products, including the launch of the industry’s first all-in-one cable repair kit that reduces material scrap and a rodent-resistant cable design used to deter wildlife damage. Engineering, procurement and construction firms consult Akins about products and resources to support their sustainability goals and projects. At Southwire, Akins manages a team that drives the specification for emerging industrial vertical markets. Her commitment to sustainable engineering led her to speak on the MULTIgenversations podcast and to contribute to multiple podcasts and webinars as a technical expert. She is also a prolific author. Akins chairs the power and communications division education committee for the Plastics Pipe Institute, an organization that uses technical content to educate end users on plastic use in piping. She is a member of IEEE and was a founding member of 100+ Women Strong at Auburn University. She still volunteers with this organization and with and MATHCOUNTS at the University of West Georgia. She serves on the production team at her church and enjoys crafting and working out. Her favorite workouts include Pilates, yoga and CrossFit. She has visited 37 states and hopes to visit all of them before reaching the age of 50.
Chelseyann Bipat, PE, CEM, CBCP, GBE, 30
Principal, MWB Engineering LLP; MS, Mechanical Engineering, Stony Brook University
Raised in The Bahamas, Bipat co-founded MWB Engineering in 2021. Before that, she worked for New York Engineers, first as a project manager and design engineer and later as a principal. During her tenure at MWB, Bipat began co-hosting the engineering podcast “Made with Brilliance.” Her specialty is HVAC and she leads MWB Engineering’s HVAC department. While pursuing her master’s degree, she performed energy audits for Local Law 87 submissions and prepared lighting design retrofit proposals and end use analysis reports for En-Power Group. She recently demonstrated her hands-on approach to project management while working at a historic event space where a newly installed rooftop unit malfunctioned just before an important gathering. She remained on-site with the facility manager and oversaw repairs to ensure the event went off without a hitch. She is a dedicated mentor and advocate for women in construction and engineering. She’s also pursuing Passive House certifications, which will reinforce her expertise in low-energy building design and high-performance systems. When she’s not overseeing HVAC projects or co-hosting her podcast, Bipat is an avid gardener. She grows food for her husband and daughter on a 300-square-foot plot that also serves as an ecosystem for local insects and birds. She also enjoys photography and has photographed several national parks, including Zion, Yosemite and — her favorite — Acadia. Her photography hobby extends to astrophotography, for which she uses a telescope in her yard on clear nights.
Baker has played a key role at Kohler Ronan for the past eight years, executing electrical systems design and coordinating with other engineering disciplines. During that timeframe, he’s built a diverse portfolio, working on various projects for the Metropolitan Museum of Art, Princeton University, the Rock and Roll Hall of Fame, Boston Public Library and Wellesley College. Each project demanded a deep understanding of both architectural intent and functional performance. While working on museums, for example, he preserved the space’s integrity by ensuring all electrical systems would remain discreet, allowing the art to be displayed without obstruction. A dedicated professional, he is known for his responsive communication and visionary leadership. Baker is dedicated, detail-oriented and remains aware of larger project goals such as budget, schedule and facility operations. Within his firm, Baker co-initiated an internal roundtable series to foster relationships and discussions with younger engineers. For Baker, engineering is not only about buildings and systems, but also about creating strong relationships along the way. His clients describe him as an adaptable, collaborative and creative problem solver with a customer-friendly attitude. When growing up, Baker had an aptitude for math and science. This skill set, combined with his father’s encouragement, led him to seek a career in a high-demand field and he found his passion for electrical engineering during undergrad. Outside of work, he's volunteered with the ACE Mentorship Program of America and is passionate about guiding the next generation of engineers. He enjoys spending time with his family and cooking, particularly a flavorful Sunday Sauce.
Burns Bradford, PE, LEED AP BD+C, 36
Project Manager, Hanson Professional Services Inc.; MS, Mechanical Engineering, Thermofluids, University of Central Florida
Bradford manages a wide range of health care, education and government clients. Since taking the role at Hanson in 2022, he has been known for his chameleon-like communication skills, resourcefulness and commitment. He also oversees operations and teams while mentoring and training staff members. With more than 10 years of experience in the engineering industry, Bradford has collaborated on campaigns for NASA and other customers while serving as a project manager. Notable work includes upgrades to booster fabrication facilities at the Kennedy Space Center, developing an energy transition plan for Valencia College, installing photovoltaic panels for Osceola County for fleet electrification and air handling unit upgrades at payload processing facilities. Bradford works with owners, architects, contractors, facility directors and government clients. He is known for being personable, fostering long-term relationships with his customers, thinking strategically cultivating collaborative environment. He also presents regularly, both to internal staff and external professionals. Since 2019, he has served as a mentor in Valencia College’s Horizon Scholars Program. Working with his current mentee, he turned the student’s passion for electrical guitars and coding into the idea of studying to one day become an electrical engineer. When he isn’t working, he enjoys spending time with his wife, three kids and family dog. Bradford likes to stay active — especially running — and visiting one of Florida’s many beaches with his favorite being Palm Coast.
Laura Brandt, PE, LEED AP BD+C, CDP, 37
Sustainability Consulting Manager, Henderson; ME, Mechanical Engineering, University of Louisville
Brandt is revolutionizing eco-friendly practices as the sustainability consulting manager for Henderson Engineers, leading dynamic projects like a six-year decarbonization plan at George Washington University, which aims to eliminate carbon emissions from heating systems across a combined 748,000 square feet of university facilities. At the 2024 Greenbuild International Conference and Expo, she co-presented her findings and addressed the benefits of retrofitting existing technologies with green solutions to bring down global emissions. Brandt has displayed leadership in paving a greener future by transitioning her clients from fossil fuels to energy-efficient solutions and earned her recognition as one of the first individuals to receive ASHRAE’s Certified Decarbonization Professional certification. Her expertise has shaped multiple LEED Gold higher education facilities, LEED federal government projects and net-zero K-12 schools. Her commitment to eco-friendly practices, decarbonization and LEED building design propelled her to support 23 sustainability project pursuits last year. Deeply committed to volunteering, Brandt serves on her company’s nonprofit foundation as a board member and as a Give Back Coordinator charged with vetting charitable opportunities. She donates her time to the Arizona Chapter of the International Institute for Sustainable Laboratories. During her downtime, she enjoys sharing moments with her husband and two daughters. The family frequents the Phoenix Children’s Museum for its hands-on activities. She also enjoys hiking around Arizona’s rocky landscapes.
Amanda Carter, PE, 37
Principal, Senior Project Technical Lead, Electrical, Stantec; BS, Architectural Engineering, University of Kansas
Carter’s career began as an electrical engineer for ESD’s workplace solutions group, where she quickly gained responsibility as a respected engineer and mentor. After five years in the workplace solutions group, Carter joined the mission critical facilities group. Her dedication and innovation led to her managing a team of electrical engineers and serving as a trusted adviser to some of the world’s largest data center clients. Carter was a founding member of ESD’s Revit electrical development team and of its innovation team. Her most significant innovation has been for a high-profile, confidential technology client. Initially serving as the electrical lead for a 60 MW hyperscale data center, she took on more projects as the firm’s work with the client expanded and evolved her role into electrical program lead, overseeing multiple projects. The client found the position so valuable that it is now a required role for any engineer of record in the client’s nationwide portfolio of hyperscale data center campuses. Outside of work within her firm, Carter also was appointed to the City of Chicago Electrical Commission in 2018 where she works with other representatives to determine best practices and requirements for the city. She was a founding member of ESD’s network empowering women. Passionate about mentoring, she also has served on the company’s intern training committee. A proud Kansas alumna, Carter spends much of her time cheering on their basketball team and hosts watch parties in Chicago. She also plays on a recreational soccer team and enjoys finding the best local restaurants in her neighborhood.
Jake Canale, PE, 31
Lead Consultant, Mechanical Engineering, WSP USA; MS, Mechanical Engineering, Binghamton University
Anatural, energetic leader, Canale joined WSP USA as a mechanical engineer in 2016. His professional focus is on decarbonization strategies. Along with other engineers, Canale developed “Decarbonization With Resilience: A Guide for New York Hospitals.” His work on these strategies includes a new, all-electric academic research laboratory building at the Columbia University Vagelos College of Physicians and Surgeons and a slew of cutting-edge program types including Central Sterile and Nursery units within New York Presbyterian’s Service Building. Canale also helped design and redesign critical care units for the New York-Presbyterian Queens Hospital during the COVID-19 pandemic. On that project, he and his team designed an HVAC system capable of seamlessly transitioning from patient room occupancy to isolation room occupancy in 40 patient rooms on the building’s 7th and 8th floors. Named One to Watch by the New York Real Estate Journal in 2024, he won the Rising Star Award from ASHRAE in 2025. Canale has been a member of the AKF Cycle for Survival riding team since 2017, raising money for the Memorial Sloan Kettering Cancer Center’s rare cancer research. He has also been involved in Canstruction, a project in which 8-foot-tall structures are designed and constructed to donate nonperishable food items to City Harvest. When he’s not busy at work, Canale enjoys intramural sports, including beach volleyball and soccer. Each Christmas, he uses his culinary skills to prepare dishes like octopus salad, shrimp chorizo and clam paella for his family’s Feast of the Seven Fishes. Canale and his girlfriend plan to travel to Athens, Greece, later this year.
Anthony DiGirolamo, PE, 32
Chief MEPS Estimator, Hunter Roberts Construction Group; MS, Construction Management, Stevens Institute of Technology
Throughout DiGirolamo’s career in pre-construction, he has worked on a multitude of projects in sectors including residential, commercial, health care, life sciences, infrastructure upgrades, piers and cultural applications. He has been chief MEPS estimator at Hunter Roberts Construction Group since spring of 2023 and overall MEPS pre-construction leader since fall of 2019, acting as a technical resource for all company projects, as well as managing a growing team of professionals. Moreover, he is responsible for creating, building and maintaining relationships as a project lead for multiple clients with specialty contractors, vendors and other industry partners. DiGirolamo strives to be at the forefront of new, innovative and sustainable MEPS system designs, presents to clients to secure project opportunities and develops a focused, knowledgeable and unified cohort of MEPS professionals to represent the company. As an MEPS leader, he strives to educate his team, dedicating time each week to teaching a specific subject and providing insight on example projects. He has also partnered with the Professional Women in Construction Society, organized and presented for HRCG’s Greater Places for Women to Work group and participated in student co-op interviews at Stevens Institute of Technology. DiGirolamo is the company representative for the Toys for Tots Foundation and volunteers for the Support the Military drive through his membership with the Order Sons and Daughters of Italy in America. He enjoys classic collector cars, staying fit and spending time with family and friends.
Gary Dominguez, PE, CFPS, Assoc. DBIA, 35
Director, Jensen Hughes; MS, Fire Protection Engineering, Cal Poly
As a successful engineering consultant, Dominguez prioritizes client relationships with a solution-based mindset, excels at mentoring early career staff and drives a collaborative approach with peers, fellow business leaders and support functions. His academic background is the cornerstone of his professional excellence, but he is also an inquisitive lifelong learner who is constantly asking questions and seeking additional knowledge. Always the first to raise his hand to support a new client engagement, Dominguez knows the importance of these relationships and shares that knowledge with developing associates. His professional dedication to making the world safe, secure and more resilient allows him to lead by example and make everyone better at what they do. Under Dominguez’s leadership, the Anaheim, California, Jensen Hughes office has been a leader across several KPIs, such as new project acquisition, financial performance results, talent development, retention and process inventiveness. He spends time giving back to his alma mater, Cal Poly, San Luis Obispo, by guest lecturing, attending career fairs and supporting the annual graduate thesis presentations. Finally, he enjoys supporting STEM education programs, having presented to students at Cal Poly, Santa Ana College and JSerra High School. In addition to time with family and friends, he is an avid scuba diver and enjoys snowboarding, outdoor adventures and Disneyland. Some of his most memorable adventures include diving with bull sharks in Cozumel, cave diving in Tulum and diving the Blue Hole in Belize.
Andriel Fenner, CM-Lean, WELL AP, 34
Digital Delivery Lead, Jacobs Engineering; PhD, Architecture, University of Florida
Fenner brings a unique blend of technical expertise and leadership to every project he manages at Jacobs Engineering. With eight years of experience in the design and construction industry, he has worked in automotive and battery facilities, photovoltaic factories, hyperscale data centers, educational buildings and government work. Fenner is responsible for establishing digital delivery workflows with clients for model and design reviews. To achieve this, he uses technology to streamline processes, improve communication and enhance project delivery. He was recognized twice by Jacobs Engineering for being highly collaborative, a team player and delivering at a high level on a confidential project. Fenner has published nine high-impact papers around sustainability and offsite construction. In total, his work has been cited more than 1,000 times in the past five years. He mentors students by sharing insights on sustainability and career development. Fenner organizes community cleanups to pick up trash in local parks and advocates for community-based agriculture. Outside of work, he is enthusiastic about staying active, especially biking and participating in events such as the Boston Drag Boat Race. Fenner has a passion for travel and experiencing different cultures. On a recent trip to India and Dubai, he was amazed by local sustainability practices like rainwater harvesting and solar power. He also enjoys hands-on projects like creating durable hardwood furniture and 3D printing functional items. At home, he has over 30 tropical indoor plants and enjoys the process of nurturing them. He also has two cats.
Jeff Evers, PE, LEED GA, 38
Electrical Engineering Manager, CMTA Inc.; BA, Electrical Engineering, Wright State University
Evers started his career in MEP engineering as a drafter at Heapy Engineering in 2007. He joined CMTA in 2019 and has a background in design, including primary and secondary power distribution systems, lighting and lighting controls, fire alarm systems and motor controls. His experience includes projects in the K-12, higher education and health care markets. One notable project is the campuswide electrical grid replacement project at Sinclair Community College in Dayton, Ohio. Evers worked with the college to update its electrical infrastructure across campus while adhering to codes and standards within existing space limitations. He coordinated building shutdowns to align with the college’s schedule, all while delivering the project on time and within budget. Other recent electrical engineering projects include a net-zero ready residence hall at Oberlin College, a master plan at Marshall University, Galen College of Nursing in Kentucky and the GE Aviation EPISCenter. Several of his projects have won awards, including The University of Dayton Roger Glass Center for the Arts, earning the U.S. Green Building Council of Ohio’s 2024 Local Market Leadership Award. Evers values volunteerism, working with Feed the Kids Columbus, a nonprofit that supports children facing food insecurity. His volunteer efforts also include contributing his time and skills to Habitat for Humanity. Valuing time with his wife and their two young sons, Evers prioritizes being there for the big and small moments, whether it’s cheering them on at a sporting event, offering advice during challenging times, spending quality time together or simply dropping them off at school in the morning.
Brittany Fiema, PE, LEED Green Associate, 35
Senior Principal, Mechanical Engineer, SmithGroup; BAE, Pennsylvania State University
Driven by a passion for sustainability and innovation, Fiema applies sound engineering principles to develop complex HVAC systems that provide resilient, reliable and cost-effective solutions that impact all aspects of thermal comfort, occupant health and energy efficiency for buildings. Fiema works with notable clients and institutions across the country to deliver a range of projects spanning building types and industries. One of her most notable projects is the $34 million, 57,000-square-foot visitor center and administration building for the historic Edsel and Eleanor Ford House in Grosse Pointe Shores, Michigan. As lead mechanical engineer, this complex, high-profile project provided a unique opportunity to bridge her experience working with cultural institutions with her passion for sustainability. Her passion for sustainability is seen in her role as an account manager for the U.S. Department of Energy’s Better Climate Challenge, the next generation of President Obama’s original Better Buildings Initiative. Fiema is a volunteer instructor for SmithGroup’s Exploring Post program, which gives inner-city high school students from across Detroit the opportunity to learn about career paths in the design and engineering field. Outside of work, Fiema is active within the local engineering community. She served as president of the ASHRAE Detroit Chapter from 2022 to 2023 and is a member of the U.S. Green Building Council’s Market Leadership Advisory Board. A mom to two young girls, Fiema and her family enjoy traveling, going to concerts and taking care of their axolotl, Ray.
Did you know that Eaton offers pre-project planning, technical support and educational resources to help you deliver accurate, code-compliant designs on time and on budget? We can help with all the things you have to do. So you can get to the things you want to do.
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Being a consulting specifying engineer means you have a million things to do. Designing, training, planning, hiring, meetings — how are you supposed to get it all done? How do you get to the stuff you actually want to do?
Eaton can help. Our application engineers can assist with training programs, project planning services, educational resources and much more, to help with your toughest challenges so you can get back to doing the things you love.
Eaton.com/MoreTime
Consulting-Specifying
Steve Flinn, PE, DICE, 37
Senior Associate, Studio Lead, Automation, Stantec; BS, Electrical Engineering, University of Illinois at Urbana-Champaign
Flinn has consistently advanced in his career, from programming control systems to leading a team of engineers, successfully navigating a major company acquisition and becoming a key mentor and point of contact for automation work. At Stantec, Flinn developed a more functional spec for a hyperscale data center developer that is now used across the client’s nationwide portfolio, significantly enhancing efficiency and accuracy, while reducing project issues and RFIs. Flinn also provides comprehensive mentorship and training to consultants and internal teams, conducting both formal and informal sessions, ensuring effective use of tools and enhancing understanding of electrical equipment. In addition to sharing his professional knowledge, Flinn is also dedicated to helping others. He teamed up with I Run 4, an organization that connects runners with individuals who have disabilities. Flinn was paired with a child for more than four years and dedicated each run to her. During a recent Stantec in the Community Week, he joined other volunteers at Chicago’s Envision Unlimited Westtown Day Center, an organization that provides services to people with intellectual and developmental disabilities as well as mental health issues. When he’s not leading his team, Flinn and his wife are avid travelers. They recently did a road trip across the country to visit 10 National Parks. Past trips include Vienna, Africa, Asia, Bora Bora and more. Flinn enjoys immersing himself in other cultures, especially local cuisines. He has been trying to hit the top 50 restaurants in the world. So far, he has dined at 10 of them.
John Hagerty, PE, 36
Smart Buildings Service Leader, North America, Arup; BS, Architectural Engineering, University of Kansas
Hagerty joined Arup in 2017 as a smart buildings consultant and now serves as the smart buildings service leader for North America. In this role, he manages a regional team of consultants delivering smart building solutions for real estate projects and serves as a project manager for multidisciplinary design and consulting projects. He’s also responsible for business planning, workload and staffing management, technical mentorship and career development. Before joining Arup, Hagerty was the lead electrical design engineer at Engie Distributed Renewables, where he designed power distribution systems for utility-interactive solar photovoltaic installations and commercial battery energy storage systems. Among his career-defining projects is The Wharf in Washington, D.C., a mile-long, mixed-use development on the Potomac River that was designed as a sustainable waterfront community. He led the delivery of comprehensive technology and consulting services for the project and his team created a technology implementation path that optimizes performance and elevates the visitor experience. The design included a single, fiber-based infrastructure supporting Ethernet and Wi-Fi sitewide, enabling the creation of a public heat map generated from the locations of visitors accessing the Wi-Fi network. This serves as a real-time activity report at The Wharf. Hagerty enjoys home-improvement projects. His most recent projects include finishing his basement and building a new living space and a playroom for his two young children. He also enjoys using his woodworking skills to build hiding places for dog toys, kids’ crafts and other items in his family’s midcentury home.
Carolyn Gumbel, PE, LEED AP, 37
Senior Mechanical Engineer, Principal, CMTA Inc.; MS, Mechanical Engineering, University of Louisville
Gumbel is known for her resilient spirit and innovative problem-solving skills, which led her to become a senior mechanical engineer and principal at CMTA. Gumbel specializes in designing HVAC, hydronic and geothermal systems with a focus on educational facilities. She has extensive experience designing mechanical systems for municipal, health care and commercial clients. Gumbel worked with Jefferson County Public Schools, the largest district in Kentucky, to create better learning environments by implementing high-performing mechanical infrastructure. Her creative design efforts helped secure $1.8 million in clean energy tax credits for the installation of sustainable systems. Gumbel has played an integral role in designing geothermal HVAC systems for the University of Louisville and Northern Kentucky University. She conducted a carbon-neutral study for a historic Catholic convent campus in Bardstown, Kentucky, developing strategies to eliminate combustibles, reduce energy consumption and convert the building’s traditional boiler/chiller HVAC system to a campuswide geothermal infrastructure. She’s been part of a team that has won three awards from ASHRAE and a NuHeights Design Award. She serves as a guide at Atherton High School and the ACE Mentor Program. In her free time, she stays busy being a mom to her two young children, ages 6 and 7, and taking care of her 50-acre farm, where she hosts her family and friends during her annual fall festival. She’s a loyal Cleveland Browns fan and loves live music festivals.
Arif Hanif, PE, LEED AP, 39
Senior Data Engineer, Affiliated Engineers Inc.; BS, Mechanical Engineering, Toronto Metropolitan University
Hanif is a technological trailblazer at the intersection of engineering, machine learning and sustainability. His adaptability, creativity and relentless pursuit of innovation have driven him to develop custom tools that harness real-time data, empowering project teams to maximize sustainable engineering in science and technology-focused facilities. With extensive experience in design and installation, Hanif optimizes mechanical systems to deliver energy-efficient, renewable-focused solutions for higher education and science and technology clients. His portfolio includes work with Duke University, Idaho National Laboratory, Providence-Swedish Alliance and the University of Maryland, Baltimore. Hanif has long understood the transformative power of data-driven approaches in engineering. He bridges the gap between traditional engineering and advanced software development, creating custom applications that enable MEP engineers to integrate data and specifications while leveraging artificial intelligence. A dedicated member of ASHRAE, Hanif is committed to mentoring and knowledge-sharing. He has earned multiple first-place rankings and awards in technology hackathon competitions. Among other activities, he volunteers at The Children’s Inn at the National Institutes of Health, supporting families with children undergoing medical research. In his spare time, Hanif enjoys bonding with his children through cooking, exploring diverse culinary traditions and experimenting with new flavors. Hanif also embraces physical challenges through fitness and rafting, where he applies real-time problem-solving skills in dynamic environments.
Ben Hobbs, PE, 38
Partner,
Mechanical Engineer, Team Lead,
CMTA Inc.; BS, Mechanical Engineering, University of Kentucky
Hobbs’s expertise includes designing mechanical systems for K-12, higher education and health care clients. He’s designed phased occupied HVAC renovations and new construction, as well as zero-energy schools across the country. Hobbs advocates for sustainable design practices and is pursuing his master’s degree in biosystems and agriculture engineering at the University of Kentucky. He holds a certificate from the Power and Energy Institute of Kentucky and is the secretary of the ASHRAE Bluegrass Chapter. Among some of his recent projects are two identical 94,000-square-foot schools for Baltimore City Public Schools; the zero-energy John Lewis Elementary as well as Benjamin Banneker Academic High schools and Bard High School Early College in Washington, D.C.; a 312,000-square-foot addition with a zero-energy target for the Minnie Howard High School in Alexandria, Virginia; and a new 287,100-square-foot zero-energy-capable facility at Frederick Douglass High School in Lexington, Kentucky. He also helped develop an engineering mentorship program at the Rise STEM Academy for Girls in Lexington, which fosters the next generation of engineers and promotes diversity, equity and inclusion in engineering. Hobbs won the ASHRAE International Technology Award for the Chapel Hill Head Start Center in 2025 and for the D.C. Public Schools’ John Lewis Elementary School in 2024. When he’s not designing zero-energy buildings, Hobbs is a soccer player and coaches children’s soccer teams. An avid runner, he has completed two half marathons. Hobbs is a devotee of the University of Kentucky’s basketball and football teams.
Christina Lail, PE, HFDP, 32
Lead Consultant, Mechanical Engineering, WSP; BS, Mechanical Engineering, University of Oklahoma
Lail is a strong leader who inspires others by delivering community impact, providing service that exceeds expectations and finding future-forward solutions to every challenge. In eight years with WSP, Lail has transformed from an eager mechanical designer to a seasoned, sought-after lead consultant and project manager on the health care mechanical team. She leads weekly training within the office, bringing junior staff up to speed on the latest in health care trends and code changes. She is a trusted adviser to clients in designing new solutions and overcoming mechanical deficiencies within their existing facilities and manages a team of seven engineers tackling some of the largest health care projects in the country. Lail is also a tireless cheerleader and advocate for her community, colleagues and clients. In 2018, she became an active member of the local chapter of Women in Healthcare and is now serving on the board as treasurer-elect. Lail is also an active member of the ASHRAE PC 170 Temperature and Humidity Breakout Committee. At WSP, Lail was pivotal in starting the intern onboarding volunteering event with Feed My Starving Children and she recently joined the Dallas Independent School District STEM Academy mentor program. In addition to her full-time work and volunteer activities, Lail provides faith-based jewelry to pediatric oncology moms in hospitals, supports local blood drives and fundraises toys for her local children’s hospital. She also enjoys portrait photography, drawing with charcoal and supporting her local sports teams, namely the Texas Rangers, Dallas Cowboys and Dallas Stars.
Lauren La Bella, PE, LEED AP BD+C, 39
Senior Project Manager, CMTA Inc.; BS, Computer Science and Electrical Engineering, Rensselaer Polytechnic Institute
La Bella began her engineering career at ME Engineers in New York, transferring just a year later to the company’s Colorado office. During her 11 years with ME Engineers, she gained international experience in Doha, Qatar, where she designed electrical systems for 58 interior spaces in an airport. This experience offered a unique set of challenges working with international codes and metric calculations. Some of her high-profile projects include renovations at Arrowhead Stadium, Mile High Stadium and Ralph Wilson Stadium, as well as new construction like the D.C. United Football Club’s Audi Stadium. After her tenure at ME Engineers, La Bella joined Klok Group, which eventually merged with CMTA. Among her career highlights at CMTA, La Bella led the company’s transition into mixed-used design projects. She has secured several awards, including the World’s Best Airport in 2024 for her work on the Hamad International Airport in Qatar and the Special Recognition Award in 2021 for the Miami Beach Convention Center from the American Institute of Architects. In 2019, La Bella graduated as the top academic recruit for the Golden Fire Department volunteer academy in Colorado. She uses her ability to thrive in high-pressure situations in her work with the fire department. La Bella uses the organizational skills she’s developed in her career by coordinating sports leagues and group camping trips with friends and colleagues. She enjoys the outdoor adventures Colorado living offers, including hiking, snowboarding, camping and running with her husband.
Danial Laiq, 30
Hydronics Product Specialist, Cleaver-Brooks; MS, Mechanical Engineering, University of Utah
Laiq is passionate about heat transfer products that play a vital role in the energy-water nexus, recognizing their impact on sustainability and efficiency in modern infrastructure. His career began in supercritical power plants in Pakistan and China, where he gained firsthand experience in boiler operations. Inspired by this experience, Laiq pursued a master’s degree in thermal science, with his thesis focusing on adsorption-based atmospheric water harvesting systems, which contribute to sustainable solutions for global water scarcity. This academic foundation led him to a career in boiler systems at Cleaver-Brooks, where he applies his technical expertise to advance boiler applications. As a hydronic specialist, Laiq works closely with engineers, architects, contractors and manufacturer representatives to design and implement efficient heating solutions. Laiq is also recognized for his contributions to the tankless water heater industry, particularly in testing innovative tankless water heaters and advanced heat pumps. Laiq’s qualities as a forward-thinking and compassionate leader are seen through his human-centric approach to work and his dedication to sustainability and community. Laiq helped design Pakistan’s first electric Formula car, representing his college team in a competition in Nebraska. His leadership and dedication are also seen through his participation in local nonprofits based in Wisconsin, where he mentors youth volunteers, coordinates blood drives and manages the website. Outside of work and volunteering, Laiq plays in local badminton tournaments and enjoys hiking and spending time outdoors. His personal goal is to visit all the National Parks.
Dustin Langille, LEED AP BD+C, HBDP, BEMP, 39
Principal/Higher Education Practice Leader/ Company Officer (Secretary), Elara Engineering; MS, Renewable and Clean Energy, University of Dayton
Langille's impact on the building design and construction industry has been marked by an unyielding passion for cultivating a sustainable future for those to come, be it through designing energy-efficient building infrastructure systems or leading enterprisewide initiatives that create opportunities for engineers to elevate their skill set. Langille is an industry expert on decarbonization, net-zero, geothermal systems and large-scale institutional and campus projects. Throughout his career, he has conceptualized, designed and implemented hundreds of building infrastructure projects. As an industry thought leader, Langille has transformed the way higher education clients approach energy efficiency across their campuses through his advocacy of long-term planning and system life cycle analysis to identify economically viable sustainable design solutions. Langille is an active leader and a frequent presenter within Elara’s training program, covering engineering topics focused on high-performance building design strategies, project management skills and project efficiency measures. He is a sought-after speaker at industry conferences, the author of various engineering articles and a mentor both internal and external to his firm. Langille is also an active participant in Elara's volunteer program. When not contributing to Elara’s success, Langille embraces a diverse range of interests, whether he’s sailing across the waters of Lake Michigan, camping under the stars, enjoying a game of chess, experimenting with new recipes or exploring new corners of the world.
Donald Meyer, PE, CFPS, 39
Market Director, Jensen Hughes; BS, Fire Protection and Safety Engineering Technology, Oklahoma State University
Meyer joined Jensen Hughes in 2022 as a senior fire protection engineer. He is responsible for fire protection engineering, code consulting and process safety providing services for industrial, high-hazard, chemical, petrochemical, refining, pharmaceutical and storage facilities. Before joining Jensen Hughes, Meyer was a senior risk engineer with Allrisk Engineering. Among his projects at Jensen Hughes are the law and education building at the Texas A&M Fort Worth campus for Stantec, fire protection support for Motiva’s Terminals and Refinery in Port Arthur, fire protection support at Jacobs’s lithium processing facility and fire protection for the Lancaster Clean Energy Center for Element Resources. He has also worked as a senior member of Hilti’s firestop engineering team, which was responsible for engineering judgments based on extensive testing in both through-penetration and construction joint firestop applications. As a member of the fire protection design and analysis staff at Areva NA, he produced solutions through system design, engineering evaluation, procedure development, installation instructions, configuration management, constructability analysis and root cause analysis. He belongs to several professional committees, including the NFPA’s Fire Risk Assessment Methods FIR-AAA Technical Committee, American Petroleum Institute’s Safety and Fire Committee and the steering committee for the Risk Engineering Energy Forum. An Eagle Scout, Meyer enjoys home renovations, travel and outdoor activities with his wife and four children. He also makes furniture and plays in an adult hockey league.
Kelli Mattingly, PE, 30
Mechanical Engineer, Kerr-Greulich Engineers Inc.; ME, Mechanical Engineering, University of Louisville
Mattingly climbed the ranks to staff-level engineer at Kerr-Greulich after only three years, much faster than many of her peers. She has served as the lead mechanical engineer on the education team for several years, despite the other teams being led by a more experienced senior engineer. She is continually assisting the project manager and her teammates to ensure the success of the entire company. Mattingly has taken charge of the many central plant replacements that Kerr-Greulich designs each year for the Jefferson County Public School District, leading and designing these projects herself. She has streamlined the process for editing front-end specifications, developed tools to assist with documentation management and developed a strong collaboration with contractors who bring her designs to life. While she loves being an engineer, the outgoing, social side of her also enjoys volunteering her time to mentor youth at church, serve on committees, present committee reports to the congregation and generally serve the community around her. Outside of work, Mattingly loves spending time with family, including her husband and two shih-poo puppies. In August 2023, they moved into a house on five acres that needed extensive renovations and repairs. Mattingly spends her days working at Kerr-Greulich and her nights and weekends helping with projects around the house. She also relishes time on the water in her boat, which she and her husband rebuilt, and is a lover of all things card and board games. She rarely misses an opportunity to attend a game night.
Romeo Michael, PE, CEM, 35
Senior Associate, BR+A Consulting Engineers; MS, Energy Management and Sustainability, Swiss Federal Institute of Technology
Described as a great leader, problem solver and thoughtful communicator, Michael’s skill set and passion for sustainability have led him to manage several of his firm’s largest higher education decarbonization projects. These plans consisted of energy efficiency strategies teamed with institutional environmentally friendly goals, while addressing campuswide transition challenges, such as construction costs and space requirements. Michael takes a holistic approach while working on plans for Boston College, the University of Rhode Island and Harvard’s School of Engineering and Applied Sciences. A multilingual communicator, Michael has strong analytical capabilities with expertise in data analysis, largescale data manipulation and project management, which allow him to bridge the gap between technical analysis and strategic implementation. He is described as a wizard with large data sets and has built custom tools that his firm uses companywide for large insight analysis and presentation. Outside of work, Michael is dedicated to fostering the next generation of engineers through weekly meetings with ACE high school mentees in Boston. Michael also contributes to the Built Environment Plus Carbon and Energy roundtable, which brings professionals together to advance decarbonization strategies in the built environment. In his free time, Michael finds joy in cooking and experimenting with blending different influences and adjusting recipes to his taste. He enjoys cycling around Boston as a sustainable method of transit. Michael also likes to travel and experience different cultures firsthand, including trying local foods.
Justin Milne, PE, PMP, 37
Senior Engineer, Jensen Hughes; MS, Fire Protection Engineering, California Polytechnic State University
Milne has more than 17 years of experience in construction and engineering. He began his career with eight years in construction before transitioning into fire protection engineering consulting. His work includes close coordination with HVAC, chemical process safety and electrical controls disciplines, bringing a multidisciplinary approach to fire protection solutions. His contributions have helped clients realize an estimated $20 million in cost savings, with consulting experience spanning over 20 million square feet of project space. He has supported organizations through risk assessments, compliance strategies and design approaches that balance safety with efficiency. His portfolio includes a range of confidential and high-profile projects, including the 3.3 million-square-foot Rufus campus comprising three city blocks in downtown Seattle. Milne also contributed to the revision of UFC 3-600-01, the fire protection criteria for Department of Defense facilities. Recently, he launched a newsletter, Fire Insights Monthly, which shares lessons learned and best practices in fire protection engineering and has grown to more than 1,000 subscribers. From 2022 to 2024, he served as president of the SFPE Dallas-Fort Worth Chapter, during which the chapter earned the Award for Chapter Excellence in both 2023 (silver) and 2024 (gold). He organized technical sessions and networking events, helping foster professional development across the field. Outside of work, Milne is active in Catholic Young Professionals and Engineers Without Borders and has volunteered over a year in Africa and South America. He and his wife traveled to Rome last year on a babymoon and welcomed their first child in February.
Rami Moussa, PE, 37
Managing Principal and Co-Owner, Point Energy Innovations; BAE, Architectural Engineering, Pennsylvania State University
Moussa was an early team member at Point Energy Innovations, founded in 2014; he took on co-ownership of the firm in 2023. As a teenager, he demolished kitchens for renovations, built stud walls and painted homes for his father’s small residential contracting business. After college, he took on roles with Boston-based consulting engineering firms like Syska Hennessy and WSP. He also worked on HVAC systems in the Smithsonian National Museum of African American History and Culture in Washington, D.C. He then moved to California, where he learned about energy conservation and management. A career highlight is the renovation and rapid decarbonization project at the 180,000-square-foot American Institute of Architects (AIA) headquarters, one of the first fully decarbonized large building renovations in the country. Moussa and his team upgraded the building’s façade and electrified the 50-year-old steam boiler system with air-source heat pumps. Moussa’s PEI team supported the low embodied carbon emission project design and developed a contractual relationship for the AIA to donate photovoltaic solar panels to Habitat for Humanity to offset the building’s remaining embodied carbon emissions. Other projects include the new construction of the 220,000-square-foot decarbonized operation Exelixis office headquarters, a model for low-cost, high-performance buildings. Moussa and his wife are lifelong soccer players and now cheer on their two kids at soccer games. They attend every home game of the NWSL San Francisco Bay Area Football Club. Moussa enjoys cooking and is an avid coffee roaster.
Manav Mittal, PMP, CSM, 33
Senior EPC Project Manager, Ampirical Solutions
LLC.; MBA, Operations & Strategy, University of Michigan; MS, Project Management, Purdue University
Acornerstone in advancing modernization across the utility sector, Mittal’s 11 years of experience highlights his track record of delivering transformative oil and gas programs with multimillion-dollar budgets. Mittal’s expertise spans coal generation, gas storage walls, compression stations, gas pipelines, distribution facilities and electrical control center buildings. He managed the automation of 800 gas sites for a major Michigan utility company, directing the integration of SCADA and smart devices. Implementation improved real-time monitoring capabilities and delivered operational cost savings of $4,000 per event. His work on the remote terminal unit upgrade program involved replacing outdated units across 800 gas sites. Mittal played a critical role in evaluating vendor solutions while leading a team of 40 professionals to deliver the plan on time and on budget. His vendor negotiations and risk mitigation strategies have resulted in $91 million in savings across projects. He serves as a reviewer for IEEE Access and Elsevier Strategy Review. In his free time, he’s volunteered for Cluster Pulse to assist startups in implementing frameworks. As the director of AACE International Great Lakes Chapter, he organized webinars connecting industry experts with students and professionals. Mittal served as a sustainability specialist at Purdue University, leading the LEED certification process for historic and newly constructed buildings. Mittal enjoys staying physically active by swimming and is passionate about kickboxing, saying it pushes his limits while also developing endurance and agility. He prioritizes time with family and draws strength from those relationships.
Robby Oylear, PE, LEED AP, 38
Project Manager, Affiliated Engineers Inc.; BS, Mechanical Engineering, University of Washington
Oylear joined Affiliated Engineers Inc. in 2018 and has grown from a key contributor in mechanical system design to a technical leader across disciplines. He has led the firm’s Seattle’s 25-person mechanical engineering team since 2023, overseeing project deliverables. Oylear also serves as the market leader for Seattle and Portland’s evolving energy and utilities market. He was the mechanical lead and project manager for the award-winning Microsoft campus modernization and its Thermal Energy Center. His portfolio features projects at his alma mater include its energy renewal program, a phased campus decarbonization plan to transform the university’s energy strategy into actionable projects. At Washington State University (WSU), Oylear and his team spearheaded the Cougar Energy Initiative, creating a comprehensive, portfoliowide decarbonization and energy management plan to eliminate fossil fuel use at the Pullman campus district energy system while ensuring compliance with the state’s Clean Building Performance Standard. He also served as project manager for WSU’s campus future utilities master plan, preparing the Pullman campus for future thermal and electrical demands and supporting carbon reduction goals. Oylear contributes to shaping local energy codes and carbon reduction policies on the Washington State Technical Advisory Group. He mentors students interested in the architecture, engineering and construction industries and volunteers alongside colleagues at local food banks. In his free time, he enjoys traveling with his wife on weekend getaways. He also loves spending time with his pets and hosting game nights with friends.
Consulting-Specifying Engineer 40
Maddi Packard, PE, 30
Control Systems Engineering Section Lead, HDR Engineering Inc.; BS, Electrical Engineering, University of Portland
Packard joined HDR straight out of college and from Day One, she has shown continuous, exceptional growth in her technical expertise and leadership abilities. At only 28, she accepted the role of controls section manager, where she now leads a diverse team of eight technical professionals, several of whom are nearing retirement. Despite being among the youngest on the team, she has earned their trust and respect. Packard is a passionate advocate for mentorship and her exceptional interpersonal skills allow her to navigate complex challenges, resolve sensitive personnel matters and foster a culture of collaboration and respect. She has also played a pivotal role as networking chair in the HDR Young Professionals Group, which provides younger staff members with opportunities to collaborate, share experiences and build community. Outside of work, Packard’s generosity and selflessness are equally apparent. When a close friend faced kidney failure, Packard did not hesitate to offer one of her kidneys. The donation process was rigorous, but she approached the challenge with unwavering commitment and optimism. Packard shares a love for the outdoors with her husband and their dog and can often be found in their cabin, nestled in the woods east of Seattle. Whether hiking, fishing or skiing, Packard finds joy in nature’s beauty. She has also found a deep sense of fulfillment in supporting youth and young adult programs, especially through her volunteer work as a track coach for a local high school and as an evening supervisor for young adult emergency shelter services in Seattle.
Chad Riggs, 38
Engineering Team Leader, Principal, CMTA Inc.; MS, Mechanical Engineering, University of Louisville
Riggs’s passion for sustainability drives him to deliver the most innovative, efficient and cost-effective solutions for his clients. He worked to maximize the full potential of guaranteed energy savings contracts (GESC) at Warren County Public Schools in Bowling Green, Kentucky. Managing a $30 million GESC, Riggs led geothermal renovations at five schools, including completing the first zero-energy school funded by a GESC. In 2021, after successfully completing CMTA’s first project in Virginia at Loudoun County Public Schools (LCPS), Riggs was promoted to partner and team leader in the region, where he remained instrumental in supporting LCPS. Notably, Riggs helped convince LCPS staff to adopt geothermal systems for two HVAC renovations, one of which won an ASHRAE International Technology Award. In every project, Riggs has served as the single point of contact for the client, including conceptualization, design, implementation, commissioning, measurement and verification. He is also actively involved in strategic planning, fostering connections between offices, driving business development, expanding cross-selling initiatives, improving processes and enhancing quality control. From a young age, Riggs was taught to help others in need. Each year, he participates in initiatives like the Red Cross blood drive and Dare to Care food drive. His favorite activity outside of work is playing golf and he makes time to connect with nature whenever possible. He and his family enjoy hiking, kayaking, riding bicycles and visiting state parks. His afternoons and weekends are typically filled with laughter, dance and swim lessons and numerous other activities with his three young children.
Amanda Josefa Polematidis, PE, LEED AP BD+C, CxA, 40
Sustainability Lead, Associate Project Manager, Hanson Professional Services Inc.; MA, Education, University of Central Florida
Polematidis has seven years of experience in mechanical design, energy auditing and commissioning. Recognized for her groundbreaking work on environmental sustainability and resiliency in Northeast Florida, she has been the task manager and lead commissioning authority for a wide range of government, health care, education and mixed-use residential facilities. Polematidis is a sustainability and resiliency subject matter expert for Jacksonville, Florida. She participated as a subject matter expert for resiliency in the 2023 Greenbuild International Conference and Expo education program working group. Polematidis’s climate leadership was showcased with her advocacy in Northeast Florida after the state initially refused to allocate resources for greenhouse gas inventory and climate action planning. Within four months, Polematidis and her team developed a plan that addressed unique environmental concerns, including rising sea levels and extreme heat. Originally a science teacher, Polematidis strongly advocates for degreed and non-degreed career paths in architecture, engineering and construction. Her efforts aim to dismantle barriers to entry and expand representation in these fields. Polematidis has written several articles, been featured in a children’s book about women in energy careers and has won multiple awards for her environmental work in Jacksonville. Polematidis loves to travel with her two children. They have visited 13 countries together so far. She also loves to sing and participates in karaoke whenever the opportunity arises.
Jahnavi Sajip, PE, 35
Principal, MWB Engineering; MS, Electrical Engineering, NYU
Sajip is a highly accomplished principal electrical engineer who specializes in sustainable building practices, energy-efficient solutions and high-performance design. She incorporates her passion for sustainable building into all her projects, focusing on human-centric engineering design for often-marginalized communities. Her work on projects like the renovation of a cluster of low-income housing buildings in the Bronx and a Passive House standard homeless shelter in Queens are great examples of her dedication to creating a more sustainable and equitable built environment. Sajip is also instrumental in designing energy-efficient systems for people who have experienced devastating losses, such as the rebuilding of homes in Maui, Hawaii, in the wake of destructive wildfires and the fabrication of Habitat for Humanity houses in Queens, New York, for those displaced by economic hardship. At MWB Engineering, Sajip oversees a team of 10 engineers across multiple disciplines and is responsible for mentoring young engineers. She regularly attends career panels, during which she acts as an educator, describing the MEP/FA career path and encouraging young engineers to consider alternative paths than those taught in schools. Sajip is the co-creator and host of the “Made With Brilliance” podcast, where she shares insights on energy-efficient building practices and industry trends. Sajip enjoys quality time with her family. She regularly takes her children and dog on hikes, embracing nature and an active lifestyle. With a passion for woodworking, she channels her creativity into building custom furniture for her home. She also has a deep appreciation for cooking, particularly experimenting with new flavors and techniques.
Senior Sustainability Engineer, Arup; BEng, Civil Engineering, McGill University
Sayegh focuses on the assessment and reduction of embodied carbon and the integration of circular economy principles by providing technical expertise on construction and research projects in Canada and internationally. One of her most notable projects involved developing a deconstruction roadmap to circular scenarios as a decision-making tool for deconstruction, material salvage and reuse for a library building at a prestigious educational institution. With no precedent for doing so at this scale, Sayegh created the framework by assessing available industry resources and developing an original and effective approach to fill in existing gaps. Through research work for the Center for Intersectoral Studies and Research on the Circular Economy, and as part of their Construction Lab, Sayegh proposed an approach to improve the integration and accounting of circular strategies. After over seven years at Arup, she now leads the firm’s circular economy practice and serves as the Circular Economy Skills Network manager for the firm’s Americas Region. As circularity is gaining traction, Sayegh is emerging as a leader in the field and works to share her knowledge and skill set to support the industry’s momentum. Outside of work, Sayegh enjoys film photography and uses the constraints of her Konica Hexar AF to fuel her creative pursuits. She enjoys outdoor activities and spends time cross-country skiing in the winter and sailing whenever she gets the chance, reflecting her commitment to an active lifestyle and sustainability.
Ian Smith, PE, 31
Electrical Engineer, CDM Smith; BS, Electrical Engineering, Virginia Polytechnic Institute and State University
From a very early age, Smith was captivated by electricity and technology. Following in the footsteps of his uncle and grandfather, it was clear to himself and everyone around him that he’d become an electrical engineer. He has worked extensively with power system analysis software and assisted with multiple large power system studies. Much of Smith’s work has been specifically with wastewater facilities, from a small pump station near his home to a major desalination plant in the Gulf of Aqaba in Jordan. In these projects, Smith has made significant contributions in enhancing facilities’ power resiliency and sustainability by providing renewable energy and microgrid designs, as well as master planning services for the federal government, both domestically and internationally. Notable projects include the Rockville Water Treatment Plant, where Smith helped design upgrades for the electrical system. Smith values continued education and is known to provide guidance and support to his colleagues, as he is never happier than when someone comes to him with a unique or new problem. He has presented at two Consulting-Specifying Engineer webcasts and has co-written multiple articles for the publication. Outside of work, Smith loves to travel. Some of his favorite places he’s visited include Berlin, Colorado and Durango. While at home, Smith loves classic science fiction movies and shows. He also is an amateur radio operator and is fascinated by the ability to communicate across the globe using just radio. He loves to experiment with digital radio, tying his passion for emerging technologies with this hobby.
Executive Project Manager, SC Engineers; MBA, University of Illinois
While Shadpour holds dual licenses as a professional mechanical and electrical engineer, he considers the ability to build strong relationships the hallmark of his career. With a background in construction and real estate development, Shadpour has developed a well-rounded perspective on the market, earning the trust of his clients as a reliable engineering partner and managing a team of designers, HVAC and plumbing engineers. As an executive project manager at SC Engineers, he contributes to the design of health care, laboratory, military and commercial projects. Notably, this includes a flagship U.S. Coast Guard net-zero energy facility in Charleston, South Carolina, and innovative health care spaces across San Diego. Shadpour is deeply committed to educating the next generation of engineers. He also shares his expertise through public speaking, including multiple TEDx talks. One of these talks on net-zero energy went viral and sparked global conversations on sustainability. Outside of work, Shadpour mentors high school students pursuing engineering careers and actively supports nonprofit organizations. An avid traveler, Shadpour has visited over 20 countries, 48 states and 56 National Parks. He is also dedicated to addressing the housing shortage and improving community living standards through residential real estate investment. A self-proclaimed food enthusiast, his goal is to dine at every restaurant in San Diego to support local businesses while exploring a variety of cuisines.
Sushmitha Sudhir, CEng, MIET, LEED Green Associate, 37
Senior Engineer, Electrical Discipline Team Lead; MS, Sustainable Energy Engineering, University of Nottingham, U.K.
Sudhir’s career began in India, where, through on-site visits to power plants, she realized the level to which these plants contribute to pollution. So, she moved toward professional roles focused on sustainability and building design. After achieving her master’s degree, Sudhir worked in the U.K., where she gained experience working with sports centers, offices, health care centers and more. Notably, Sudhir contributed her expertise to the Sandwell Aquatics Centre in Smethwick for the 2022 Commonwealth Games. She worked with the contractors to design the center both for the games and as an enduring city landmark building once the activities concluded. Sudhir led the design of the electrical infrastructure, which needed to meet international game standards. After nine years working for Arup in the U.K., Sudhir took a long-term assignment in Texas. In this role, she has been working on a decarbonization plan for over two dozen buildings for a health care client and the electrical design for the renovation of a historic landmark. She has also been the interim electrical team lead in Arup’s southern geography, where she leads a team of 14 in developing skills to match project requirements and ensure quality outcomes for clients. After moving to Texas, Sudhir became a member of Women in Architecture, part of the Houston chapter of the American Institute of Architects. She runs the Women in Architecture social media account. Outside of work, Sudhir loves to cook and play badminton. She also spends much of her time doing arts and crafts with her daughter.
Consulting-Specifying
Joseph Szczechowicz, PE, 29
Senior Associate, Meyers+ Engineering; BS, Electrical Engineering, Manhattan College
Szczechowicz joined Meyers+ Engineering in 2024. From 2016 to 2024, he worked at WSP USA, where he moved from intern to associate. At WSP, he led electrical design projects, including replacements and renovations at the Port Authority Bus Terminal, LaGuardia Airport Terminal B, Wells Fargo Center Arena and Philadelphia Flyers Training Center. When he joined Meyers+, he took leadership of the company’s New York-based electrical team, comprising five people. His recent projects include 4 Manhattan West’s commercial-to-residential conversion, Jackson Park’s residential alterations and fit-out projects for Arc’teryx, Lululemon, Sweetgreen, Issey Miyaki, Bond Bet, Othership, Van Leeuwen and Glossier. A standout experience for Szczechowicz happened in February 2024 during a Philadelphia Flyers hockey game at the Wells Fargo Center Arena. At about 9 p.m. on a Tuesday, a medium-voltage transformer failed. He called the arena’s head building engineer and offered to drive from New York City to assist. He was able to access the electrical submetering system remotely and help diagnose and resolve the issue. Outside of work, Szczechowicz participated in the Canstruction program in which he and his colleagues designed and constructed an 8-by-8-foot sculpture made of nonperishable food cans. The sculpture was displayed at Brookfield Place in Manhattan and ultimately donated to the City Harvest food bank. Szczechowicz is an avid cyclist, regularly commuting to work by bike and going on group rides every weekend. He has participated in the Green Mountain Stage Race in Vermont, a four-day event that attracts hundreds of riders from across the country.
JuliAnn White, LC, LEED AP BD+C, 35
Senior Associate - Electrical Designer, BR+A Consulting Engineers; BS, Architecture, Wentworth Institute of Technology
White has over a decade of experience and serves an integral role on a range of projects as an electrical designer at BR+A Consulting Engineers. Known for her willingness to learn, she has excelled in leading-edge net-zero carbon building designs and other sustainability initiatives. White has designed complex lighting and electrical systems for Harvard, Pfizer, Moderna and Roche. These smart building integrations improved energy efficiency, enhanced researchers’ work environment and reduced costs. With a focus on the health care sector, White coordinated MEP systems for local institutions such as Mass General Hospital and Boston Children’s Hospital. A recent project included advanced net-zero carbon features for the 19-story life sciences research building in Cambridge, Massachusetts, and faced challenges with service capacity for an all-electric heating plant. White has volunteered with the New England Chapter of the Illuminating Engineering Society serving as a board member and was awarded recognition as an emerging professional. White participates in the Boston Society of Architects’ KidsBuild event, which provides school-age children with the opportunity to learn and explore the possibilities of planning design and construction by setting up and guiding young participants. White loves traveling and recently went to Greece with her husband and son. White spends her time out of the office hosting family and friends in the house she has fixed up alongside her husband and relaxing on long walks in the woods with her rescue dog.
Suzette Vasquez, 38
Associate/Electrical Designer, Certus Consulting Engineers; BS, Electrical Engineering, University of Texas at El Paso
Vazquez emerged as a leader in her firm for her technical expertise, people skills and commitment to lifelong learning. She focuses on hospitals and health care facilities, with notable projects including an endoscopy suite and SPECT/CT renovations for Baylor Scott & White All Saints in Fort Worth, Texas. Her colleagues and clients trust her to solve difficult and complex problems. Vasquez understands that engineering is about more than calculations, working to ensure positive results for patients and staff in health care facilities. Her dedication is evident in her active listening, thoughtful solutions and engagement. These qualities and the technical expertise demonstrated highlight her ability to build lasting relationships with clients. She earned the Illuminating Engineering Society Illumination Award for her contributions to the UTD Engineering and Computer Science West building and was recognized for connectedness with the Certus Core Value Award. Committed to education and mentorship, Vasquez has presented multiple times on hospital power basics and health care lighting control. She also is a trusted adviser to junior engineers in her firm, providing guidance and encouraging professional growth within her team. Outside of work, Vasquez manages multiple rental properties and gives back to her Texas community by volunteering with Dallas and Fort Worth food banks. Vasquez loves to spend time outdoors and spends most of her weekends gardening or taking nature walks with her dog. She enjoys traveling and has visited seven countries across Europe, as well as various destinations like Mexico, Canada and Hong Kong.
Andy Wiese, PE, CLD, IALD, LC, 39
Architectural Engineer, Engineering Technologies Inc.; MS, Architectural Engineering, University of Nebraska-Lincoln
Wiese is regarded by colleagues and peers as a dedicated and detail-oriented professional who consistently exceeds client expectations, leveraging his expertise in electrical engineering and lighting design. Throughout his career, Wiese has demonstrated an exceptional ability to bring complex engineering concepts to life. His passion and dedication have led to his acceptance into the International Association of Lighting Designers and earned him the distinction of being one of nearly 170 professionals worldwide to achieve the Certification Lighting Designer credential. His portfolio includes projects across a diverse range of sectors — from high-profile exterior lighting renovations at the Oklahoma State Capitol Building to downtown high-rises to K-12 school renovations critical to the development of small-town communities. One of Wiese’s most notable projects is the Polk County Courthouse restoration in Des Moines, Iowa. This intricate undertaking involved restoring the nearly 200-year-old Beaux Arts building while seamlessly integrating modern engineering techniques to preserve its historical integrity. Outside of his professional life, Wiese is dedicated to community service, volunteering with the Food Bank of Iowa, Habitat for Humanity and New Visions Homeless Services. A committed husband and father, he makes it a priority to attend his children’s youth activities, often volunteering as a coach. He values quality time, creating lasting family memories, enjoying game nights with friends and taking on countless home improvement projects.
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BUILDING SOLUTIONS
April Musser, PE, CDM Smith, Atlanta
New parking garages must deal with more robust fire protection requirements
It is important to understand the changing risk landscape in parking garages that influences fire protection engineers to properly apply new fire protection code requirements.
According to the U.S. Fire Administration, approximately 650 parking garage fires occur every year in the United States — and these fires can be catastrophic. Estimates from 2024 indicate that the property damage and losses associated with parking garage fires total approximately $8 million. In addition, parking garage fires cause an estimated 15 personal injuries every year.
Objectives
• Identify the automotive and parking technologies that are changing the risk landscape in parking garages and understand the fire protection challenges these technologies present.
• Understand the impact of electric vehicle (EV) technology and hybrid electric vehicle (HEV) technology on fire risk in garages.
• Identify new code requirements related to parking garage fire protection because of the changing hazard landscape associated with both automotive and parking building technology.
Hence, fire protection and safety regulations that accurately capture inherent risks are critical in parking garage designs to ensure fire and life safety.
Fire and building codes are largely reactive, which means that code changes are typically implemented in response to changing conditions and technologies that shift the hazard landscape. Over the past several years, new code changes have been enacted in various areas of fire protection as code bodies struggle to advance protection requirements to accommodate new vehicle technologies including increased use of lithium-ion batteries. The hazard landscape of parking garage fire protection has changed drastically over time.
Fire protection hazards are changing
At present, the most obvious change to the hazard landscape for parking garage protection is in response to battery electric vehicle and hybrid elec-
tric vehicle (HEV) technologies and relates primarily to battery chemistry including lithium-ion batteries. Lithium-ion battery fires are especially aggressive in these types of vehicles because the heat from a malfunctioning lithium-ion battery cell can cause adjacent cells to fail. Consequently, a chain reaction could occur, requiring prolonged and intensive efforts to bring under control — this type of failure reaction is known as thermal runaway.
Because of residual heat inside the internal battery components, electric vehicle (EV) and HEV batteries have been reported to reignite for hours and even days after the initial fire is extinguished. Owing to the battery cell chemistry, these fires can reach temperatures of 5,000°F, significantly higher than the average temperatures of 1,500°F anticipated during a gasoline-powered vehicle fire.
These higher temperatures signify that the fire is more likely to spread to adjacent vehicles, structures and any nearby stored combustibles. The extreme temperatures also expose the parking garage structure to a level of heat that can cause structural weakening — or even failure — of steel and concrete. Moisture inside the concrete will vaporize and expand, which can create a condition called spalling (i.e., pieces of concrete are dislodged by the expanding water vapor, creating pits and cracks).
In comparison to gasoline-powered vehicles, EV and HEV batteries can add hundreds and even thousands of pounds to the vehicle weight; for example, a Tesla Model 3 weighs approximately 600 pounds more than a Honda Accord.
Therefore, it is critical that parking garages be designed to account for increased weight as EVs and HEVs continue to grow in popularity. Over the
past 5 years, car shopping source Edmunds estimates weight has increased by 600%.
There are several factors that contribute to the growing number of EVs driven by consumers and, therefore, parked in parking garages. Green initiatives drive companies to make environmentally conscious changes and convert more of their fleets to EV and hybrid platforms. As technology improves and prices for EVs decrease, making these vehicles more affordable, it can only be expected that EV sales will continue to rise through 2025 and beyond.
Material fire protection hazards
The increasing availability and adoption of EV and HEV technology is not the only technological advancement that is reshaping the hazard landscape of parking garages. Gasoline-powered vehicles are also implementing technological changes that are significantly impacting parking garage fires — specifically the increasing use of plastics and rubber materials.
While these materials lighten vehicle weight and increase safety, the plastics are replacing many historically noncombustible materials in automobile manufacturing, primarily metals. These high concentrations of plastics and rubbers can create a vehicle fire that is more challenging that older-generation metal car parts that were both more difficult to produce but also heavier.
Reportedly, car fuel tanks made of molded plastic have melted when exposed to heat from a fire, causing the fuel inside to be released. Parking garages are designed with sloping floors and/ or open drainage grates. When burning fuel is released, it can be conveyed away from the origin
vehicle to expose additional vehicles; this concern is adding to fire protection challenges.
Finally, vehicle size contributes to larger fire loads. Cars and trucks are becoming larger and are thereby incorporating larger amounts of flammable materials, such as plastics and rubber. Plus, larger cars require larger fuel tanks.
How facility technology is changing
Parking garage technology is also changing. Urban parking garages are being redesigned as property owners struggle to maximize their available area to increase profits. To begin with, parking spaces are tighter and narrower, allowing fires more of an opportunity to spread to adjacent cars. Additionally, more technological advances are being included in parking structure design, such as car stackers and automated parking systems, which can drastically change the hazard profile. Car stackers can create situations where cars stored on upper levels create an obstruction, thereby preventing fire protection systems from reaching intermediate or lower-level vehicles. Were a fire to occur in a car stacker, there is considerable risk that the stacking structure could be compromised by heat exposure and then catastrophically fail.
Another significant change includes the addition of EV charging stations, which has been outlined in some codes, including International Building Code (IBC) Chapter 4. While convenient for people who drive EVs, the stations increase protection challenges because they can store substantial amounts
‘Cars and trucks are becoming larger and are thereby incorporating larger amounts of flammable materials, such as plastics and rubber.’
FIGURE 1: Open parking garages like this have openings that allow for natural ventilation. Courtesy: CDM Smith
BUILDING SOLUTIONS
2: In previous editions of the code, open parking garages like this one did not require automatic fire sprinkler protection. New code editions have eliminated sprinkler exceptions for open parking garages.
3: Driving ramps that interconnect levels of parking garages provide a pathway for ignitable liquids such as gasoline from ruptured fuel tanks to migrate to points away from the point of origin in garage fires, contributing to fire spread. Courtesy: CDM Smith
of power. If involved in a fire, it can be difficult to prevent reignition until the power storage systems are completely discharged; up to 30% of EV battery fires occur during charging. While facility owners want to offer these systems as a convenience to potential customers, it is at the price of increased fire risk.
However, the omission of battery charging stations does not eliminate the risk of EV fires in parking garages, as there have been reports of spontaneous combustion of EVs in these structures.
In some places, building owners will opt to include photovoltaic panels to reduce the costs of
providing EV vehicle charging stations. These panels are typically constructed of plastic materials and the electrical connections introduce new potential risk pathways where short circuits and electrical faults could result in fires.
How changing technology impacts fire protection
Modern gasoline-powered vehicles and EVs/ HEVs both introduce some additional ventilation concerns. Not only does the excess heat from these more challenging fires need to be vented away from the structure, but both vehicle types contain higher quantities of metals that can result in faster buildup of toxic products of combustion laden with heavy metals and other toxic byproducts.
While investigating these increasing challenges for protecting vehicle garages, several stories have been reported about garage fires that took days to control and even resulted in structural collapses. As a result, the NFPA has instituted major changes. Although these changes were introduced in the 2023 edition of NFPA 88A: Standard for Parking Structures and the 2022 edition of NFPA 13: Standard for the Installation of Sprinkler Systems, the jurisdictional adoption can lag by several years.
For this reason, in many jurisdictions, these requirements may not have been enacted or may be newly enacted; for property owners, authorities having jurisdiction and builders, there may still be some significant growing pains.
Property owners of existing garages are experiencing increasing pressure from the public to provide battery charging options and may not be fully aware of how these charging stations affect the level of risk in the event of a fire.
Active fire protection systems
Previous editions of the NFPA codes allowed open parking garages to omit sprinkler protection because it was expected that the openness of the garage would allow the heat and toxic products of combustion to freely vent into the atmosphere, thus lowering the risk of structural damage. It was also expected that this venting would help maintain visibility to ensure occupants had adequate time to exit the structure, even in the absence of sprinkler protection.
FIGURE
FIGURE
Courtesy: CDM Smith
However, the more aggressive fires resulting from EV battery technology, HEVs and increased use of rubbers and plastics effect more than just the heat release rates — the production of toxic smoke is also significantly increased. Out-of-control garage fires, even in open garages, were resulting in injuries and even structural collapse and a risk for fatalities.
As a result, the 2023 Edition of NFPA 88A now requires sprinkler protection; however, the requirements are not retroactive, so existing open parking garages not equipped with sprinkler protection will be grandfathered and allowed to remain operational as they were constructed. (These requirements do not impact garages built as part of one- and two-family homes; however, new garages attached to multifamily dwellings are not excepted.)
NFPA 13 now requires a more robust sprinkler density in parking garages, beginning with the 2022 edition. Under earlier editions of the code, parking garages were considered ordinary hazard group 1 occupancies requiring a sprinkler density of 0.15 gallons per minute (gpm) per square foot over a design area of 1,500 square feet.
In the latest edition, the minimum fire sprinkler density allowed for a parking garage or an automobile showroom is an ordinary hazard group 2 density, which requires a minimum of 0.20 gpm per square foot over a 1,500-square-foot design area. Where dry-pipe sprinkler systems are required to accommodate for freezing potential, the design area would require a minimum 30% increase over the prescriptive design area for wetpipe sprinkler systems.
NFPA 13 also included guidance in the appendix for car stackers up to two levels beginning in 2016 recommending extra hazard group 2 density if ceiling only sprinkler protection is provided. However, this does not preclude performance-based approaches to sprinkler system design for car-stackers based on the latest research available which may reduce the required ceiling densities where intermediate level sprinklers are provided to overcome the challenges of upper-level cars shielding lower levels from sprinkler discharge.
FM, a commercial property insurer, takes these increased sprinkler protection requirements for parking garages even further. Under new guidelines, parking garages are now reclassified from a
hazard category of 2 to a hazard category of 3. This means that, under FM recommendations, a parking garage would require a minimum of 0.30 gpm per square foot over 2,500 square feet for a wetpipe sprinkler systems to meet the requirements for extra hazard group 1 according to NFPA 13 — representing spaces nearing the top level of fire severity. The design area would increase to 3,500 square feet for dry-pipe sprinkler systems.
Even if a jurisdiction does not adopt NFPA 88A, parking garages are still held to the IBC, which removed the sprinkler exception for open parking garages. All parking garages are now defined as group S-2 moderate hazard storage occupancies and, as a result, all new parking garages greater than 55 feet in height or with a fire area greater than 48,000 square feet are required to be fully sprinkler protected.
Following suit, the 2024 editions of both NFPA 1: Fire Code and NFPA 101: Life Safety Code also both require all new parking garages to be fully sprinkler protected and do not include any exceptions based on height or square footage. Local codes may trigger protection upgrade requirements if existing parking garages are modified to add car stackers or EV charging stations.
These changes may also have ripple effects that should be expected to impact the project budget for new parking garages. For example, the more robust sprinkler design densities may drive increasing needs for fire pumps in parking garages (fire pumps increase the pressure of a water source when that source is not adequate). The addition of fire pumps and new requirements for mechanical ventilation may affect power requirements.
Fire protection insights
u Fire protection challenges in parking garages are evolving due to the increasing presence of electric and hybrid vehicles, which introduce risks such as thermal runaway and higher heat release rates during fires.
u In response, updated fire protection codes like NFPA 88A and NFPA 13 now mandate enhanced sprinkler requirements to mitigate these hazards, although existing open garages may not yet be retrofitted.
FIGURE 4: In addition to passenger vehicles getting larger, in some urban areas where theft and property damage is a problem, garages may house larger vehicles increasing the fire load due to both plastic and rubber car parts as well as larger fuel tanks. Courtesy: CDM Smith
BUILDING SOLUTIONS
In areas of the country subject to freezing temperatures, it may be necessary to install dry-pipe sprinkler systems and provide heated enclosures for associated dry-pipe valves. Even considerations for the clear space between adjacent parking decks may need to be considered because adding sprinklers may reduce the available clear height, thereby limiting the height/size of vehicles that can safely navigate a parking garage without mechanically impacting the sprinkler system and causing damage or flooding. All of these considerations can be expected to impact the overall building design and construction costs.
Because EV and HEV fires can take an exceptionally long time to extinguish, they require vast quantities of water (compared to their gasoline-powered counterparts). As such, parking garages may require longer-duration water supplies and increased fire flow requirements in the future. In more rural areas, this may constitute improving the water supply to sites where new garages are being built, or in some scenarios, even considering the addition of water storage tanks.
The earlier 2019 edition of NFPA 88A had included new mandates for mechanical ventilation for enclosed and underground parking garages. This mechanical ventilation must be installed in accordance with NFPA 90A: Standard for the Installation of Air-Conditioning and Ventilating
Systems and the ductwork must be constructed of noncombustible material. The latest 2023 edition added new requirements for ventilation, including a control system to turn fans off when fire suppression systems are activated, thereby necessitating an interface between automatic fire protection systems and fire detection and alarm systems with the mechanical ventilation systems.
Passive fire protection systems
In addition to the active fire protection systems — fire sprinklers and mechanical ventilation — there is also a need to consider passive fire protection in parking garages. Large open areas with multiple interconnected levels allow unimpeded pathways for toxic smoke to spread. Where parking garages are attached to or are underneath occupied buildings (of a different occupancy), there is the potential for spread of fire gasses through shafts such as elevators and stairs. Generally, dividing a parking garage into smaller fire compartments negatively impacts the flow of traffic through the garage; however, opportunities and obligations to design parking facilities with consideration given to compartmentation must not be overlooked.
Fires in vehicle parking structures have become more challenging for multiple reasons. Modern cars are built with larger amounts of plastics and rubber materials, which are flammable. In addition, EV and HEV fires present new and unique challenges owing to the intense heat produced and the risks posed by thermal runaway.
The extreme heat release rates, along with the heavier weight of EVs and HEVs, can negatively impact the structural integrity of vehicle parking structures, thus increasing the danger to civilians and firefighters alike. Fire and building codes are being revised and updated in response to these automotive technology changes; but, as with most reactive code changes, it will take time to fully understand all the inherent risks and to develop industry best practices. It is always important to involve a fire protection engineer early in the design process to ensure that facility design is following new code requirements. cse
April Musser, PE, is a fire protection engineer with CDM Smith. She has more than 20 years of industry experience in fire protection and life safety.
FIGURE 5: Parking garages may have occupied spaces adjacent to, above or below the parking area and garage fires can impact these occupied spaces. This garage has an occupied level below the parking decks. Courtesy: CDM Smith
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BUILDING SOLUTIONS
Macey McEnaney, EIT, CDM Smith, Boston; and Ian Marchant, PE, CEM, CDM Smith, Poughkeepsie, New York
Why and how to use chiller systems to maintain building temperatures
Several types of chillers, along with various pumping configurations, provide flexible and efficient solutions for cooling needs.
Chillers remove heat from water (or other liquids, such as a glycol mixture) by using the refrigeration cycle. The removed heat is either rejected from the chiller into the environment or it can be beneficially used for heating the building or an industrial process.
This resultant cooled water is then used to remove heat from buildings and industrial processes. The cooled water is pumped through a closed system of pipes to the cooling load and then returned to the chillers to be cooled again.
A basic chiller consists of a compressor, evaporator, condenser and an expansion or flow control device. Specialized chillers, referred to as heat pumps, can reverse the process to provide either heating or cooling as required or even both simultaneously.
Chiller types
Objectives
• Identify different types of chillers and their building applications.
• Understand the components and working principles of chillers.
• Evaluate the benefits and drawbacks of various chiller system arrangements.
Chillers vary in terms of methods of heat rejection, types of compressors, heat exchanger types and arrangement of these components. Removed heat can be rejected into air, water or other fluids. Air-cooled chillers use air to remove heat from the refrigerant at the condenser, while water-cooled chillers use circulating liquid.
In most cases, air-cooled chillers need to reject their heat into outdoor air. Therefore, the entire unit must either be split with the condenser located out-
side and the compressor located inside or be packaged in a single unit located outside. Alternatively, the heated condenser air can be ducted outdoors. The temperature to which the condenser can be cooled is limited to the dry bulb temperature of the ambient air and air has a lower heat transfer coefficient than water. This makes air-cooled chillers less energy efficient than water-cooled chillers.
For these reasons, air-cooled chillers are typically only used for smaller scale systems; the exception is an area with limited water resources. Water-cooled chillers are more common for medium to large plants because they are available in larger capacities, which means they can provide higher cooling capacities with less units than air-cooled chillers and can also use lower energy per ton of cooling.
Water-cooled chillers commonly use cooling towers to reject heat. Cooling towers cool water via evaporation. The cooling tower water temperature is limited by the wet bulb temperature of the ambient air.
However, cooling towers add a level of complexity above air cooled chillers because of the added components and requirements for handling the water with additional pumps, piping, water chemistry, biological growth and disposal of the blowdown water. The factors described above require careful consideration to select the system with the best life cycle costs.
For small systems from a few tons up to a few hundred tons are usually air-cooled. Systems greater than several hundred tons into the tens of thousands of tons are usually water-cooled. The factors that need to be weighed for medium sized system in the 100- to 500-ton range are first system capital costs, energy costs, operator availability and knowledge, annual operating hours requiring cooling, availability of free cooling economizer hours.
Water and sewer costs and other environmental factors may include water and waste reduction goals, greenhouse gas emissions, noise pollution and refrigerant usage.
Other factors also include system physical size. Shipping limitations determine package sizes. Site limitations are also a factor. Air-cooled chiller packages are usually located outdoors, often on a rooftop or on the ground near the cooling load. At least in freezing climates, water cooled chillers are in a building or a mechanical room
Other cooling sources are natural water bodies, such as lakes, rivers and oceans. The ground is also an available heat sink in the case of geothermal systems. Using only the ground as a heat sink is not recommended because the increase in temperature over the years will render the ground unusable once the practical temperatures are exceeded. The stored heat from summertime cooling can beneficially be used as a heat source in the winter. If the system is heating-dominant, too much heat will be removed from the ground and the ground temperature will drop over time. The opposite is true for cooling-dominant systems — when the annual loads are balanced the conditions are ideal for a geothermal system.
Compressor types
Chillers can use several types of compressors — scroll, reciprocating, centrifugal and screw. Except for reciprocating compressors, these are commonly used in different chiller applications. Over time, innovations to improve the efficiency, reliability and controllability of centrifugal, screw and scroll compressors have reduced the use of reciprocating compressors.
The distinguishing characteristic of scroll and reciprocating compressors is that when pressure rises, their capacity is impacted significantly because these compressors operate in discrete steps or even cycled on and off, rather than continuously. This stepped reduction in capacity contrasts with centrifugal and screw compressors, which use continuous modulation for capacity reduction. For instance, in a scenario where precise temperature control is needed, centrifugal compressors can continuously adjust their capacity to match varying load conditions efficiently.
Scroll and reciprocating liquid chillers are well-suited for use with air-cooled condensers because pressure rise has a minor impact on the volume flow rate of the compressor, thus allowing scroll and reciprocating liquid chillers to retain almost full cooling capacity even when the wet bulb tempera-
ture is above the design parameter. Air-cooled scroll and reciprocating liquid chillers can be equipped with a reversing valve in the refrigerant circuit — this allows them to be applied as heat pump chillers and to be configured seasonally for heating or cooling. Centrifugal compressors are ideal for energy conservation and precise temperature control because they can continuously adjust their capacity within a limited range of pressure ratios to effectively match various load conditions with proportional power consumption changes.
Like scroll and reciprocating compressors, screw compressors are positive displacement machines. Screw compressors have a high maximum working pressure, continuous lubricant scavenging, no flood coolers and are designed for high turndown ratios. These factors allow them to have the least capacity reduction at high condensing temperatures.
Chillers may also include a receiver, economizer, expansion turbine, sub-cooler and other auxiliary components.
• Receivers store liquid refrigerant as the ratio of vapor and liquid vary depending on cooling loads.
• Economizing process can occur in a direct expansion of a flash system.
‘Air-cooled chillers are typically only used
for smaller scale systems; the exception is an area with limited water resources.
’
FIGURE 1: Pumps located in a central pumphouse serving primary distribution loops.
Courtesy: CDM Smith
BUILDING SOLUTIONS
FIGURE 2: Constant-flow primary distribution through series chillers. The same pumps are used to circulate flow through the chillers and the loads. Chillers split the system temperature drop between the chillers. This arrangement ensures a steady flow of chilled water through the system. Courtesy: CDM Smith
• Expansion turbines remove rotating energy while a portion of refrigerant vaporizes.
• Sub-cooling occurs when condensed refrigerant is cooled below its saturating condensing temperature. Sub-cooling reduces the necessary amount of liquid refrigerant that flashes in the evaporator to bring the liquid refrigerant temperature down to the saturation temperature at the lower evaporator pressure. Any refrigerant that flashes reduces both the system efficiency and capacity. Sub-cooling can happen in the sub-cooler section of a water-cooled condenser or in a separate heat exchanger.
• Liquid injection can reduce noise in centrifugal compressors and can also be used for lubricant cooling in screw compressors (when injected into a port slightly below discharge pressure).
Chiller system arrangement
Chillers can be used in single- or multiplechiller arrangements. When designing a system, it is important to consider the costs and benefits of each arrangement.
A basic single-chiller configuration with one compressor is a simple and compact system making it a popular choice for chilling water for air conditioning in a small single building.
A more complex multiple-chiller system can allow for operational flexibility and standby capacity, making maintenance less disruptive. Using multiple smaller chillers can reduce the power costs during partial load conditions. However, using multiple chillers may cause an increase in installation costs and space requirements.
Multiple-chiller systems can be arranged in parallel or series arrangements.
In a parallel arrangement, there are two primary features:
• The chillers are independently cooling the liquid.
• All units are controlled by a combined exit liquid temperature and the chilled water temperature can be used to cycle units on and off to adjust capacity to maintain chilled water temperature.
Each chiller’s load is proportional to its flow at any given delta T. Parallel arrangement can allow for more flexibility in load distribution, particularly for larger loads. Figure 3 depicts a parallel chiller arrangement
In a series arrangement, the liquid flows through each chiller in the series, independently reducing the temperature proportional to its share of the load (in low system loads, one chiller may be able to handle the entire temperature reduction). Series chillers are useful if there is a high system differential temperature because each chiller can be optimized to operate with a more defined entering and leaving water temperature.
The high differential temperature indicates that the system flow is reduced; however, the pressure drop is additive for the chillers in series (i.e., the pressure drop of each individual chiller in the series is added together to calculate the total pressure drop). Series arrangement can be more efficient at lower loads because it is more energy efficient at partial load conditions. Figure 2 shows a series chiller arrangement.
Chilled water distribution systems
Chiller systems can have constant or variable flow. Traditionally, constant chilled water flow has been applied to smaller systems with straightforward design and operation and low distribution costs. Constant flow can be applied to primary, secondary and tertiary systems. Primary flow pumps need to be designed to overcome the pressure loss of the sub loop with the greatest pressure loss.
Because the flow of these systems is constant, capacity can only be changed via the system differential temperature. Decreasing differential temperature subsequently decreases system efficiency. Understanding the basics of a constant-flow system is fundamental to understanding the intricacies of the more complex distribution schemes (see Figure 2). Modern systems need variable-flow pumping to meet the energy efficiency requirements prescribed in ASHRAE Standard 90.1: Energy Standard for
Buildings Except Low-Rise Residential Buildings. New control systems mitigate the need for constant flow through chillers and improve upon many of the issues found in large constant-flow systems.
Variable-flow design can reduce energy use and expand the capacity of the distribution system through diversity. Multiple variable speed pumps can reduce flow and pressure, thereby lowering pumping energy during partial load conditions. Variable-flow requires that terminal device controls be installed to ensure flow conditions are met. By using correctly sized two-way valves and pressure-independent control valves (PICV), the continuous high-return temperature — needed to correlate the system load change to a flow change — can be provided.
Pumps can be arranged in several ways based on system size and distribution. Primary/secondary pumping is common. In this setup, a primary loop in a central plant handles overall circulation, while secondary loops connect loads and chillers, decoupled from the primary loop. Primary pumps move large volumes at low pressure, while secondary loops are tailored to specific needs. Each load has a pump sized for its pressure loss, thus preventing one subsystem from dictating others’ operating points (see Figure 3).
Larger primary loops can cause downstream temperature increases if multiple secondary loops increase the temperature of the chilled water as it is added back into the primary loop. Each subsequent downstream secondary loop then receives warmer supply temperatures than the upstream loops. Consequently, this affects the performance of the downstream loops. Intermediate chillers can mitigate this issue. However, this configuration is not suitable for single central plant system
In medium-sized systems, primary pumps provide flow through chillers and the primary loop. Tertiary systems with in-building pumps are useful for retrofits where existing building systems are served by a new central plant. Tertiary systems also work within buildings with varying loads, such as heating, ventilation and air conditioning (HVAC) and process loads.
For exceptionally large systems, distributed pumping can be used where pumps are distributed to various buildings and sized only for pressure loss in a particular building. With distributed pumping, the need for distribution pumps within the central plant is eliminated; rather, the pumps are in their respective buildings. This allows the distributed
pumps to be sized for the pressure loss in a particular location instead of the significant pressure loss required by large distribution network piping.
Distributed pumping is ideal for new construction where the distributed buildings and central plant can be fully planned and coordinated, as opposed to system that may require new loads to be added in the future (significantly affecting the pressure drop of each distribution pump).
Selecting a chiller and design guidelines
Energy usage is a major consideration when designing any system. Distribution systems offer a few ways to save energy and energy costs, such as:
• Using variable speed pumping to save energy.
• Using a practical lower limit of 39°F (because temperatures below that can lead to increased and unnecessary energy usage).
The exception to this is where lower chilled water temperatures are required to provide increased dehumidification or other process requirements. With low chilled water temperatures, the chiller manufacturer should be consulted as glycol may need to be added to the water to prevent freezing in the evaporator heat exchange surfaces. The addition of glycol will add operating costs to the system.
Refrigerant choice is a continually evolving challenge, with several issues to consider. The environmental impact is the primary factor influencing the latest selection of available refrigerants. International efforts aim to reduce greenhouse gas emissions, favoring refrigerants with lower global warming potential (GWP). Regulations are steering the industry toward lower GWP alternatives. GWP evaluates the overall impact on global warming, considering both the effects of refrigerant chemistry and the energy required to operate the system.
FIGURE 3: Variable-flow primary/secondary systems through parallel chillers. Separate pumps are used to circulate water through the primary loops and the decoupled load and/or chiller loops. Flow is split between each chiller. This arrangement ensures optimal flow and pump sizing for each segment of the system. Courtesy: CDM Smith
BUILDING SOLUTIONS
Different applications have unique cooling demands and technical specifications. Crucial factors include temperature range and cooling capacity; ensure that the refrigerant meets operational temperature requirements.
The physical environment where the chiller will operate is another crucial consideration. Refrigerants differ in their safety classifications, which may affect installation requirements. Some refrigerants are efficient but classified as flammable, requiring adequate ventilation and safety measures. Compact or enclosed spaces may limit refrigeration options, especially those needing special handling or venting systems due to potentially high refrigerant concentrations in case of a system leak. If the chiller is installed in a confined or shared space, these factors will significantly influence refrigerant selection.
pump or chiller that is out of service will render both components inoperable.
Compressor run time in small systems also should be considered. At low loads and low system water volumes, the temperature of the system can rapidly decrease to the setpoint, causing the compressor to shut off and the system temperature to increase rapidly. This is known as short cycling. To prevent this, the system volume should be increased by the inclusion of a buffer tank. The sizing of the tank should be done in consultation with the chiller manufacturer.
Factors such as chiller turndown, allowable cycle times and system temperature need to be factored into the tank size calculations. Four gallons of water per chiller ton (12,000 British thermal units/hour) is recommended. The added benefit of a buffer tank is more stable temperature control. If stable chilled water supply temperature is crucial, then the buffer tank size should be increased.
Chiller systems should be designed to maximize temperature differential. A 15°F temperature differential is ideal for HVAC applications. To increase efficiency at larger temperature differentials, a series arrangement should be considered to increase chiller efficiency.
Chiller design requirements
csemag.com
Chiller insights
u Chillers use the refrigeration cycle to remove heat from water or other fluids, with the extracted heat either dissipated into the environment or repurposed for heating applications.
u Various chiller types and system configurations, including air-cooled and watercooled options, different compressor technologies and single or multiplechiller arrangements, impact efficiency, operational flexibility and energy consumption in commercial and industrial settings.
The refrigerant landscape is constantly developing, driven by stricter regulations and technological advancements. To protect the investment, it is important to anticipate future regulations and choose refrigerants that meet current standards and are likely to remain compliant as restrictions tighten. Laws regarding refrigerants vary by country. The U.S. Environmental Protection Agency regulates refrigerants under the Clean Air Act. Additionally, ambient temperature and humidity can affect the efficiency of certain refrigerants, with high ambient temperatures requiring refrigerants optimized for such conditions.
Chiller flow is another important consideration. All chiller manufacturers have a minimum and maximum allowable flow. For variable speed chillers, the low-flow limit is a function of compressor speed. The simplest method for control is to pair one pump with one chiller and allow the chiller to control its associated pump; however, in that situation, any
Proper design and control of chiller systems are crucial for achieving energy efficiency and reliable operation. By understanding and implementing best practices in chiller flow, load management, compressor selection and system control, chiller systems can be optimized for peak performance and sustainability.
Adherence to industry standards — such as ASHRAE, AHRI and ASME — ensures that systems are not only efficient but also safe and compliant. Modern approaches to heating and cooling can significantly reduce energy consumption and promote environmental stewardship. By staying informed about advancements in chiller technologies and control strategies, engineers and facility managers can continue to improve the efficiency and effectiveness of their cooling systems. cse
Macey McEnaney, EIT, is a mechanical engineer at CDM Smith. Ian Marchant, PE, CEM, is a senior mechanical engineer at CDM Smith.
FIGURE 4: Equipment located in a heat transfer vault in a larger distribution system. Courtesy: CDM Smith
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BUILDING SOLUTIONS
Bill Kosik, PE, CEM, LEED AP, kW Mission Critical Engineering, Member of WSP, Chicago
ASHRAE 90.4 created to boost data center energy efficiency
ASHRAE 90.4 helps engineers move toward data center energy efficiency compliance.
In the International Energy Conservation Code (IECC) and ASHRAE Standard 90.1: Energy Standard for Buildings Except Low-Rise Residential Buildings framework, data centers are classified as commercial buildings and must follow either the IECC prescriptive path or ASHRAE 90.1 (defined as an alternative compliance path). From rom 2001 to 2007, ASHRAE 90.1 changed very little with respect to data centers. The primary changes were made to address humidity control, outline when economizers are required, and defining baseline Heating, ventilation and air conditioning (HVAC) systems, which are used in calculating energy use performance.
advance in the design, construction and operations of highly sophisticated, resilient and energy -efficient facilities.
ASHRAE 90.1-2013 was the first edition with an alternate compliance path for data centers using power usage effectiveness (PUE) as the compliance metric. The compliance path includes guidelines for calculating PUE using ASHRAE 90.1 Appendix G simulation methodology. The 2016 edition of Standard 90.1 contained the same language as the 2013 edition. While the 2013 and 2016 standards reduced some uncertainty in how data centers meet energy efficiency requirements, it was a needed stopgap until ASHRAE released its new data center energy standard.
• Understand the basics of determining data center energy efficiency through ASHRAE Standard 90.1: Energy Standard for Buildings Except Low-Rise Residential Buildings.
• Learn about ASHRAE Standard 90.4: Energy Standard for Data Centers and how it works with ASHRAE 90.1.
• Know how to apply ASHRAE 90.4 in data center design.
Although Standard 90.1 had included updates for data center energy efficiency requirements, it was still trailing behind the rapid pace of advancements in computing technology. These advancements were having a significant impact on facility size, construction type and electrical and cooling systems. As municipalities across the U.S. began to encounter increasing data center projects, building code officials needed a way to review and assess data center designs for permitting purposes.
Also, it was important that these standards and guidelines remain relevant despite ongoing advancements in computing technology. Over the years there have been several working groups and committees focused on data center energy efficiency. Much of the work that was done has worked its way into the current energy efficiency guidance documents.
ASHRAE Standard 90.1-2013 of the was the first to include detailed guidance on achieving data center energy efficiency. It also came at an advantageous time as the data center community continued to
Still, engineers and code enforcement officials faced challenges in validating compliance with the ASHRAE 90.1 requirements, escalating the need for a dedicated energy standard for data centers. However urgent the need for a new standard, ASHRAE followed its procedure for standards development using a consensus-driven process, with representation from a wide range of constituents, including owners, developers, engineers and equipment manufacturers. The new standard would be published as an independent document but would fit within the framework of ASHRAE 90.1.
ASHRAE Standard 90.4 for data center energy efficiency
In mid-2016, ASHRAE Standard 90.4: Energy Standard for Data Centers was published. At just more than 60 pages, ASHRAE 90.4 doesn’t seem as detailed as other standards such as ASHRAE 90.1, which is more than 450 pages. The brevity of ASHRAE 90.4 is by design — instead of trying to weave in data center-specific language into the existing ASHRAE 90.1 standard, ASHRAE opted for a separate standard that applies only to data centers and relies on Standard 90.1 for normative refer-
ences, such as requirements for building envelope, service-water heating, lighting and others. This approach avoids doubling up on future revisions to the standard, eliminates overlap and ensures that ASHRAE 90.4's focus remains exclusive to data center facilities.
The new ASHRAE 90.4 standard also includes the compliance methodology mechanical and electrical engineers need to demonstrate how their design meets the energy efficiency requirements. This includes new terminology and calculations: Design and annual mechanical load component (MLC) and electrical loss component (ELC). ASHRAE clearly states that these values should not be used to judge efficiency outside of 90.4 and are not analogous to PUE developed by The Green Grid. The standard includes compliance tables with the maximum MLC for the 19 ASHRAE climate zones.
After Standard 90.4 was released and put to use, many engineers and code enforcement officials had a clearer understanding of how designs must be judged to meet energy efficiency requirements for data centers. The new standard provided a solid framework for determining data center energy compliance.
Aside from the obligatory changes needed after releasing a new standard, ASHRAE also included significant revisions, deletions and new requirements. While all of this was needed to keep up with the pace and innovations of data center growth, it was critical that the new Standard 90.4 would remain relevant as new generations of ITE systems and data center cooling and power design would continue to evolve.
As Standard 90.4 began to be applied to data center projects, a new edition of the Standard 90.1 was released. The new standard no longer contained details for computer room energy efficiency compliance, which were previously present in ASHRAE 90.1-2013 and 2016.
ASHRAE 90.4-2019: improvements and new interpretations
Based on several factors, including advancements in HVAC and electrical equipment, ITE system design and feedback from the industry, ASHRAE released the second edition of Standard 90.4 in 2019. Many of the changes focused on increasing energy efficiency requirements.
For example, the maximum MLC values required for compliance were lowered, increasing the efficiency requirements. In keeping with ASHRAE TC 9.9
Table 1: Timeline of data center standards, regulations and studies
2005 Pacific Gas and Electric - PG&E Data Center Emerging Technologies
2006 Green 500 - Start of Green 500
2006 US Public Law 109-143 Study Energy Efficient Computers in the US
2007 ASHRAE 90.1-2007: Energy Standard for Buildings
2007 CEE Data Centers and Servers Initiative launches
2007 PG&E - Utility Information Technology Energy Efficiency Coalition
2007 NREL - Study on Data Center Energy Use
2007 US EPA - Testing and Implementing Data Center Energy Metrics
2007 The Green Grid - Start of TGG
2007 EPA - Report to Congress on Server and Data Center Efficiency
2008 National Data Center Energy Efficiency Informational Program
2009 US Federal CIO - Initial Study on Reducing Federal Data Centers
2009 Exec Order 13514 Federal Leadership in Environment and Energy
2010 ASHRAE 90.1-2010: Energy Standard for Buildings
2010 USGBC - LEED Adaptations for Data Centers
2010 Consortium - Measuring and Reporting Data Center Efficiency
2010 EPA - Start of Energy Star for Data Centers
2010 Silicon Valley Leadership Group - Data Center Efficiency Summitt
2011 US DOE - DCEP Data Center Optimization Initiative
2011 LBNL - US Data Center Usage Energy Report
2012 US DOE - Demo of Data Center Profiler Tool
2013 ASHRAE 90.1-2013: Energy Standard for Buildings
2016 ASHRAE 90.4-2016: Data Center Energy Standard
2016 ASHRAE 90.1-2016: Energy Standard for Buildings
2016 US Federal CIO - Data Center Optimization Initiative (DCOI)
2019 ASHRAE 90.4-2019: Data Center Energy Standard
2019 ASHRAE 90.1-2019: Energy Standard for Buildings
2022 ASHRAE 90.4-2022: Data Center Energy Standard
2022 ASHRAE 90.1-2022: Energy Standard for Buildings
2025 European Commission Rating Scheme for Data Center Energy Use
recommended thermal guidelines, ASHRAE stated that the revised MLC values are conservative and can be achieved with or without an air-side economizer. Also, the design MLC compliance path had been replaced with a more accurate approach using the maximum annualized MLC calculation. (TC 9.9 is concerned with all aspects of mission critical facilities, data centers, technology spaces and electronic equipment/systems.)
Standard 90.4 contains two tables listing the maximum values for annualized MLC based on ITE capacity from ≤ 300 to > 300 kilowatts. Annualized
TABLE 1: Timeline of important events in data center energy efficiency. Courtesy: Bill Kosik, WSP
BUILDING SOLUTIONS
FIGURE 1: In addition to changing the compliance process in ASHRAE 90.4 from 2016 to 2022, the mechanical load component (MLC) values are more stringent across all climate zones. ASHRAE acknowledged that the MLC values in the 2016 edition needed to be lowered to ensure reasonable energy efficiency. Courtesy: Bill Kosik, WSP
MLC - ASHRAE 90.4 - 2016 and 90.4 - 2022
csemag.com
Data center insights
u When designing data centers, engineers must understand which codes or standards are needed to guide them.
u ASHRAE 90.4, published as a stand-alone document, requires that the prescriptive measures found in ASHRAE 90.1 must be met to achieve compliance.
MLC is the sum of all energy required for cooling, fans, pumps and heat rejection equipment, divided by the energy for the data center ITE design. Each table associates a maximum annualized MLC value with a climate zone as defined by ASHRAE Standard 169: Climatic Data for Building Design Standards.
The annualized MLC equation was also revised from ASHRAE 90.4-2016. Before the revision, the annual energy use calculation assumed that the ITE systems always ran 100%. But to demonstrate the impact of part-load conditions on cooling equipment and overall system design, the calculation for the annualized MLC now requires the energy use of the HVAC system to be calculated at 25%, 50%, 75% and 100% of the ITE load. Once the annualized MLC is calculated, it is compared to the maximum annualized MLC values in Standard 90.4.
There were also changes to electrical system compliance. The maximum ELC values for the uninterruptible power supply (UPS) segment for electrical systems have been lowered, reducing the maximum allowable overall ELC. ASHRAE indicates this was done to recognize efficiency improvements in data center electrical distribution equipment and UPS systems since the original release of Standard 90.4.
ASHRAE 90.4-2022: data center efficiency, renewable energy
The next edition, ASHRAE 90.4-2022, introduced changes focused on improving energy efficiency and adapting to technological advancements in data centers (see Figure 1). These are key updates from the standard:
• The incoming service segment of the ELC was eliminated from the calculation.
• The maximum ELC values required for UPS segment compliance have again been lowered (also reducing the maximum allowable overall ELC).
• All ELC segment calculations must now be made at 25%, 50%, 75% and 100% of the design load, making the calculation methodology and output for the ELC congruent with the MLC.
• The calculations now require the inclusion of transformer efficiency curves in the distribution segment downstream of the UPS.
• Additional options were introduced for the mechanical load component calculations.
• A new alternative compliance path was introduced for the combined MLC and ELC used in considering onsite renewable energy deployments.
• Language was incorporated to encourage heat recovery. ASHRAE indicates that the credit calculation method is very specific to avoid double dipping.
Over the three editions of Standard 90.4, the updates were geared toward keeping up-to-date with power and cooling system technology and reflecting data center designed. The implemented changes were prioritized to be most helpful and informative in designing and operating highly efficient, state-of-the-art data centers. cse
Bill Kosik, PE, CEM, LEED AP, is an Assistant Vice President, Mechanical Engineering at WSP. He is a member of the Consulting-Specifying Engineer editorial advisory board.
Clima te zones as listed in ASHRAE st andard 16 9
Charumathi Jagadheeswaran, WSP USA Buildings Inc., Dallas
An in-depth look at the basics of lighting controls
Expanded understanding of line and low-voltage wiring improves decisions between automatic and manual lighting controls.
It is essential for electrical and lighting designers to have a fundamental understanding of code requirements and key considerations before starting the lighting design process. These factors include design specifications, building types, budget constraints and the minimum code requirements. Additionally, designers should consider the owner’s preferences regarding the type of system, understand the functionality of different spaces or rooms within the building, decide between 120 V and 277 V for light-
FIGURE 1: An example of a coordinated floor plan showcasing the lighting fixtures, line and low-voltage lighting controls alongside a sequence of operations table breaking down how these spaces are controlled. Courtesy: WSP USA Buildings Inc.
ing circuits and controls and address end-user requirements.
Lighting codes and standards
Codes and standards to consider while designing lighting and controls include:
• International Energy Conservation Code (IECC).
• Illumination Engineering Society (IES).
• ASHRAE Standard 90.1: Energy Standard for Buildings Except Low-Rise Residential Buildings.
• NFPA 101: Life Safety Code.
• NFPA 70: National Electrical Code (NEC).
• U.S. Green Building Council.
The IES helps designers determine the necessary level of illumination for different spaces, considering factors such as the type of work area, whether it’s an indoor or outdoor space and specific task lighting requirements based on the functionality of these environments. The IECC and ASHRAE 90.1 provide guidelines on lighting control sequences and specify where and how automatic and manual controls should be implemented.
Differences between line-voltage and low-voltage lighting systems
Line voltage refers to the standard electrical connection used in lighting systems, typically ranging from 120 V to 277 V. The most basic example of line-voltage control is a manual on/off toggle switch, which opens and closes the circuit to either allow or interrupt the flow of electricity. Over the
years, wiring has developed to include features that not only turn lights on and off but also offer a range of dimming options.
This system includes both a ground wire and a neutral wire, which are essential for multi-way applications. Line-voltage systems enable lighting fixtures to be grouped via switch legs, allowing the creation of control zones based on user preferences and code requirements.
There are several advantages to using line-voltage systems. Electricians are generally familiar with line-voltage wiring, which helps reduce installation errors. Additionally, these systems can be installed over longer distances, making them an excellent choice for retrofit applications during renovations or expansions, provided they are installed and used correctly.
On the other hand, line-voltage wiring has certain limitations when in terms of flexibility and control capabilities. Traditionally, it involves higher labor costs due to the complexity of installation. Costs can vary significantly based on certain circumstances, including fluctuations in copper prices.
Low voltage lighting controls are commonly used due to the widespread application of LEDs. Unlike 120 V to 277 V systems, low voltage wiring operates at 12 V to 24 V, supplying power and communication via data cables to low voltage control devices.
Low voltage systems typically include a power component that connects to manual control devices, such as wall switches or sensors, through either a wired cable or a wireless protocol. The power component should preferably be placed in an accessible ceiling within the same room as the lighting loads it controls.
When low voltage systems are connected wirelessly, typically one component will require a line voltage connection, while other devices often operate on batteries and do not need physical wiring. It is essential to note that all devices in a low voltage system should come from the same manufacturer and use the same communication protocols to ensure efficient functionality.
While most codes allow for low voltage wiring to be run without the need for conduits or junction boxes, making it independent of power systems and wiring, it’s important to check with local codes before design. It is also important to note that the NEC requires all low voltage wiring to be class two compliant for indoor circuits. This requirement helps prevent the risks of electric
shock or overheating in indoor applications and mandates that 120 V wiring be segregated from 12 V to 24 V systems. This rule applies to both retrofit and new construction LED systems.
With dimming becoming a preferred control capability, manufacturers are offering dimming drivers that are compatible with a range of their products. Allowing users to dim light fixtures from a range of 0 V to 10 V down to either 10% or 1%. The ability to dim down to 1% is especially desirable in imaging spaces within many health care facilities.
Additionally, both commercial and residential buildings benefit from the smarter control options provided by low voltage systems, such as Bluetooth functionality, which enables users to control lighting and other building systems conveniently from their electronic devices.
Like any other system, low-voltage wiring has a few disadvantages that may cause owners and designers to reconsider this option. The facility/ owner is tied to one manufacturer, preventing the
3: The section view outlines how to measure the height (H) to determine the primary and secondary lateral side-lit zones according to IECC section C405.2.4.2. Courtesy: WSP USA Buildings Inc.
FIGURE
FIGURE 2: The floor plan view highlights the primary and secondary lateral and longitudinal side-lit zones in accordance with IECC section C405.2.4.2. Courtesy: WSP USA Buildings Inc.
BUILDING SOLUTIONS
FIGURE 4: Single pole low voltage wiring diagram reflecting the connection to a lighting load via a relay allowing the manual control (low voltage) to provide on/off and dimming capabilities to the lighting control zone. Courtesy: WSP USA Buildings Inc.
option of having competitive pricing from other manufacturers for future projects or expansions. Other drawbacks include a higher likelihood of miswiring, increased material costs and the potential for unshielded conductors to pick up electrical contaminations from nearby conductors.
Selecting the right voltage
Both a 120 V or 277 V connection are integrated into the lighting system, allowing the owner to choose their preferred voltage system. This choice primarily affects the maximum wattage capacity of the lighting circuit.
Traditionally, lighting circuits are connected to a 20 A breaker, even though the code limitation is to not exceed a 50 A breaker for a lighting circuit, per NEC section 210.23(D). According to the NEC section 210.20(A), the calculation for overcurrent protection on branch circuits considers the sum of noncontinuous loads plus 125% of the continuous loads, and lighting is usually considered a continuous load, limiting the continuous load to 80% of the circuit breaker's rating.
Objectives Learningu
• Understanding the difference: Between line voltage vs low voltage lighting controls wiring.
• Learning: Controlling methodologies required by code.
• Latest 2021 IECC code: Updates and impacts on health care building energy consumption.
Breaking down this code language, a 277 V lighting circuit can handle 4,432 VA = 277V x 16A (80% of a 20A breaker) of lighting load. In contrast, a 120 V circuit is limited to 1,920 VA = 120V x 16A (80% of a 20A breaker). Therefore, it’s advantageous to use 277 V circuits by reducing the number of circuits needed while maximizing capacity of a single lighting circuit.
In the past, using a 30 A breaker was common because non LED fixtures, such as low-pressure sodium or metal halide lamps, had higher wattage per fixture. The 30 A breaker could accommodate a greater number of fixtures on one circuit due to this higher wattage. However, LEDs consume significantly less wattage per fixture, allowing for an equal or greater number of fixtures to be connected to a 20 A circuit.
Due to code requirements and regulations, it is essential to address voltage drop concerns. This is why, in recent times, site lighting is occasionally connected to a 30 A breaker. These setups must comply with code requirements, which help eliminate concerns regarding voltage drop, especially for longer runs to exterior site lighting.
Connecting lighting to a 30 A circuit also necessitates upsizing the wiring. This can pose issues, as the internal wiring of many LED fixtures is typically smaller than 14 AWG, making them more susceptible to overloading and short circuits. Such conditions can lead to fire hazards if these fixtures are connected to circuits exceeding 20 A. The NEC requires lighting connected to circuits above 20A to be equipped with heavy-duty lamp holders and compatible components.
It is important to note that while switching between 120 V and 277 V circuits can increase total wattage or VA, it is neither common nor recommended to upsize the breaker size beyond 20 A for lighting circuits, given the lower wattage per fixture that LEDs provide.
After selecting the voltage and control systems, the next step is understanding the various spaces and user preferences for controlling those areas. So, how can this be accomplished?
Start by defining areas of control, which is essentially specifying a group of lights that will be managed together, meaning they will all turn ON, OFF or DIM simultaneously. This grouping is typically designed to meet client or owner needs while complying with the energy codes that govern control areas.
Energy code requirements
While planning and setting up a control sequence for lighting is mainly derived from user preference, that is not the only deciding factor. Codes and standards heavily influence whether these areas are to be manually or automatically controlled.
Most spaces are required by the IECC to utilize automatic controls to manage energy consumption and reduce costs. However, the same code specifically states that certain areas must be controlled manually. These areas are vital for the safety and security of building occupants.
Where the code mandates it, manual controls must always be located where readily accessible to
occupants and where controlled lighting is visible and manual control indicates or identifies what areas or lighting are connected to them.
Automatic control methods are primarily covered in the IECC and ASHRAE 90.1.
The first example is occupancy sensors, where lighting is automatically controlled based on the occupancy in a space, with occupancy sensors utilizing one of the following technologies: passive infrared – dual technology, ultrasonic and microphonics.
Occupancy sensing is often integrally located to a lighting fixture, wall switch or ceiling/surface mounted device. In spaces where occupancy sensors are used, lighting is set to turn ON to 50% power capacity, automatically turn OFF after 20 minutes of unoccupancy and can be manually turned off as needed by the occupant.
In the areas where vacancy sensors are utilized, the lighting needs to be turned ON manually, but the vacancy sensors turn OFF the lighting within 20 minutes of the occupant leaving the room, providing an additional opportunity for energy conservation and savings. It is typically recommended in spaces where occupants might forget to turn off the lights as they leave a space.
Another example of automatic controls is a time switch control, where lighting is automatically controlled using a set schedule based on time and/or the day. A time-based schedule and control are required by code in spaces not provided with occupancy or vacancy sensing. In spaces controlled by time switches, occupants must be provided with an override switch complying with the requirements listed below:
• Shall be a manual control.
• The override switch shall not permit lighting to remain on over two hours.
• The override switch shall not control areas larger than 5,000 square feet.
• Lighting-reduction controls.
Lighting shall be provided with manual control to allow occupants to reduce the lighting load by at least 50% while maintaining a uniform illumi-
FIGURE 6: Low voltage wiring diagram reflecting plug loads (halfswitched and fully switched receptacles) and lighting loads controlled via a ceiling occupancy sensor.
Courtesy: WSP USA Buildings Inc.
nation pattern or continuous dimming control as allowed by code.
Light reduction of the general lighting is not required where lighting is not controlled via occupancy sensors, daylighting responsive controls, where luminaires provided for special applications or for areas that have a manual control under exceptions.
General lighting is automatically controlled based on the availability of daylight entering a space. Daylight-responsive reduction shall be achieved by photosensors (photocells) that can either be built into the fixtures or installed remotely. These sensors allow the lighting in daylight areas to turn on or off and adjust the brightness as needed.
Lighting fixtures falling within the primary, secondary side-lit zones and top-lit zones as specified in IECC and ASHRAE 90.1 shall be controlled when the total wattage in the primary zone exceeds 150 W. These daylighting zones are required to be controlled independently of one another.
If the primary daylight zone is under 150 W, the combined primary and secondary daylight zones are under 300 W or if the total glazing area is less than 20 square feet, then daylight-responsive controls are not required. However, these zones/areas shall be noted on plans.
‘General lighting is automatically controlled based on the availability of daylight entering a space. Daylightresponsive reduction shall be achieved by photosensors that can either be built into the fixtures or installed remotely.
Understand code updates
There can be significant differences between one code cycle to the other.
One significant change from 2018 to 2021 IECC is the requirement for controlled receptacles. The updated code mandates that at least 50% of all permanently installed 125 V, 15 A and 20A receptacles in spaces such as enclosed offices, workstations and classrooms must be controlled. These receptacles may serve various equipment and portable devices including, but not limited, to computers, monitors, coffee machines, microwaves, convenience outlets and audiovisual equipment that do not have significant consequences from being turned off or losing power. Controlling these outlets when not in use or when occupants have left the area reduces additional power consumption.
Plug loads contribute as much, if not more, to energy consumption as lighting does. To effectively monitor usage,
BUILDING SOLUTIONS The last word
it's important to consider the occupancy of a space or follow a predetermined schedule. Receptacles in these areas can be controlled alongside the lighting using occupancy sensors, time-switch controls or signals from other control or alarm systems. This approach helps us meet the requirements set by the IECC.
Time switch controls can be programmed for specific time periods and customized for each day of the week. This flexibility allows for the management of lighting and plug loads in designated areas of a building, based on operating hours, usage patterns and code requirements. A specific schedule can be implemented in an area in the building if it does not exceed 5,000 square feet and is limited to one floor.
Another effective way to manage controlled receptacles is by tying them into a wall or ceiling occupancy sensor that controls lighting in those spaces. These sen-
sors can automatically turn off receptacles 20 minutes after the last occupant leaves the area.
To prevent the loss of power to any equipment connected to a switched receptacle during unoccupancy, there are several options available. One option is to use a fully switched duplex receptacle, which has both outlets controlled by a switch. When selecting this option, one must provide an unswitched receptacle within one foot of the switched receptacle providing an uninterrupted power source for any essential devices. This ensures code compliance as well.
Alternatively, a half-switched or split-controlled receptacle can be employed, allowing one outlet to be controlled while the other remains continuously powered. This ensures that devices plugged into the continuously powered outlet receive 24/7 power. This approach can also be applied to quad outlets.
Occupant sensors in corridors
The 2021 IECC requires that corridors with lighting levels of two foot-candles or more at their darkest point must have occupant sensors.
Applying these requirements in a health care setting can be challenging. Health care facilities typically use a combination of normal and life safety lighting, because emergency lighting in corridors is required to provide the necessary illumination for safe egress.
The final step in designing lighting controls is to coordinate and identify the necessary symbols and connections between the lighting and control systems on the plan. It is important to distinguish between
In summary, lighting and lighting control systems involve a collaborative design process that requires interaction and coordination among electrical and lighting designers, architects and mechanical engineers. It is essential to discuss final ceiling heights, the placement of diffusers in relation to lighting and the layout of ceiling grids from both a spatial and locational perspective.
Once the basic design elements of the spaces have been established, selecting appropriate lighting fixtures becomes important, as well as understanding user preferences for controlling these spaces.
With advancements in the industry, it has become easier to integrate various systems for enhanced control by facilities
While automatic controls help achieve integration of systems and are often required, certain areas allow for flexibility by code to use manual control systems. By optimizing lighting control systems based on room size, purpose and occupancy patterns, better working conditions can be created for occupants without compromising energy efficiency. cse
Charumathi Jagadheeswaran is a consultant and electrical engineer at WSP USA Buildings Inc.
csemag.com u
Insights
Lighting control insights
u Lighting control plays a crucial role in optimizing energy efficiency and ensuring compliance with various codes and standards. u Understanding the differences between line voltage and low-voltage lighting control systems allows designers to balance functionality, installation costs and future adaptability.
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How to design data centers for current and future uses
Four engineers discuss the current landscape of the data center industry.
CSE: What are some current trends in data centers?
Chris Barth: A primary challenge for many data center projects is power availability from utility providers. Owners and operators are implementing alternate power strategies, such as on-site prime power generation and cost-sharing with utilities. The criteria for site selection have also evolved to focus more on utility power availability and less on network infrastructure.
Jarron Gass: Efficiency is currently the main driver behind construction and usage trends in data centers. The less space a server occupies, the less volume is
needed and, consequently, the less there is to cool. Reducing the amount of energy required (both electrical and cooling) lessens the strain on the electrical grid. This, in turn, enables us to pack more computing power into a smaller footprint. With a growing demand for artificial intelligence (AI) and other high-performance computing, it's essential not only to pursue efficiency but also to emphasize scalability and repeatability. Implementing modular designs allows for quicker initial builds and easier future expansions as demand for data centers rises.
William Kosik: The data center design and construction industry seems
to always come across new and innovative ways to power and cool data centers. Currently, one of the biggest issues that I've seen is helping our clients determine the type of infrastructure they need to meet their prospective tenants’ requirements. With large hyperscale facilities that offer data halls that range from 12 megawatts to 18 megawatts and with certain tenants that want to lease that space, it is always a challenge to determine how the main infrastructure power and cooling will be designed. Requirements from prospective tenants include strictly defined temperature and moisture redundancy and continuous cooling requirements. The liquid-cooled cabinet has become one of the highest-priority systems to be designed, often creating significant challenges to data center facilities that have already been designed. Within the data environment, high-performance computing is driving up average server rack power densities. Traditional all-air methods of cooling data halls are increasingly being supplemented with direct-to-chip liquid cooling and/or hybrid liquid/air cooling to meet the elevated heat rejection demands of the densified equipment.
CSE: What future trends (one to three years) should an engineer or designer expect for such projects?
Chris Barth: Rack power densities will continue to increase as computing demand grows globally. High-density data environments can significantly impact facility planning, power demand and distribution, cooling demand and structural floor loading. Designers and engineers will need to address potentially inadequate traditional design approaches to
FIGURE 1: Modern data centers need to house increased automation, computing and power needs as the industry shifts. Courtesy: Southland Industries
support the evolving demands of densified racks.
Jarron Gass: It can be difficult to distinguish between current trends and those just over the horizon, but efficiency, scalability and sustainability appear to be the key drivers of near-term decision-making. Where there’s a clear return on investment, green energy will continue to expand, supported by the growing use and capacity of battery storage solutions. Efficiency will come from reducing the physical footprint and lowering energy consumption per unit of output, leveraging refined and evolving technologies. Finally, there’s a strong push for scalability that supports repeatability across a range of sizes.
William Kosik: The window to consider new and innovative design methodologies may be a minimum of three to five years, depending on the building type. For data centers, we may look at a horizon of less than one year. Not only are tenant requirements being revised and improved but the marketplace for cooling equipment specifically made for data centers also is rapidly changing. One example of this is liquid cooling.
CSE: How is the growth of cloudbased storage and virtualization impacting co-location projects?
Chris Barth: Speed to market has become critical for co-location operators and their tenants. The availability of data center space is directly tied to a tenant's ability to support the rapid growth in cloud-based solutions. In addition to ground-up construction, owners are exploring renovating legacy data centers or converting non-data environments to activate servers as fast as possible. Modular and prefabricated construction has helped accelerate new-build facility construction timelines. Major data center clients often have national account agreements with suppliers of large equipment, such as generators. They pre-order these items in bulk and supply the equipment to the contractors for projects, bypassing the traditional contractor-purchase process.
Jarron Gass: The growth of cloud storage and virtualization is fueling increased demand for co-location services, particularly as businesses adopt hybrid cloud strategies. Companies are seeking secure, scalable environments with direct cloud access to ensure seamless connectivity. As high-density workloads become more common, advanced cooling solutions—such as liquid cooling—are increasingly necessary. Edge data centers are also expanding to support low-latency applications like AI, Internet of Things and 5G. Sustainability remains a key focus, with co-location providers integrating renewable energy sources and AI-driven power management systems. Rather than being replaced by cloud services, co-location is evolving into a critical hub for hybrid cloud, edge computing and AI-powered infrastructure.
Corey Wallace: Designs have to be more flexible and robust to accommodate the unique needs of potential co-location tenants.
CSE: What types of challenges do you encounter for these types of projects that you might not face on other types of structures?
Chris Barth: Where many facility types have a well-defined program and requirements, the needs of a data center facility are likely to change over the course of design and construction. Successful design and construction teams are agile and adaptable to changing project requirements.
Jarron Gass: Co-location services come with unique challenges, including multitenant security risks, limited customization options and potential resource constraints. Unlike private data centers, tenants in co-location facilities share power, cooling and network infrastructure, which can lead to latency issues and raise compliance concerns. Costs may also be less predictable, with possible hidden fees for bandwidth usage, remote hands services and infrastructure upgrades — such as added redundancy. Additionally, businesses must rely on the provider’s security protocols
Participants
and operational reliability, which may not always be fully transparent, making service disruptions a real concern. While co-location offers scalability and potential cost savings, organizations need to carefully evaluate vendor reliability, implement robust security controls and design effective interconnection strategies to ensure performance and uptime.
William Kosik: One of the highest priority systems is liquid cooling for a client or tenant’s computers. There is a big impact on the data center cooling infrastructure when looking at liquid cooling systems. Not only is the heat dissipation
Objectives Learningu
• Understand the current landscape of data center design and what owners are requesting.
• Identify how the industry is changing and what future challenges should be thought through currently.
Chris Barth, PE Senior Mechanical Engineer, HDR, Inc., Phoenix Jarron Gass, PE, CFPS
Fire Protection Discipline Leader, CDM Smith, Pittsburgh
William Kosik, PE, CEM, LEED AP, Lead Senior Mechanical Engineer , kW Mission Critical Engineering, Chicago
Corey Wallace, PE, NICET IV Principal Engineer - Fire Protection, Southland Industries, Las Vegas
ENGINEERING INSIGHTS
from liquid-cooled cabinets extreme, but the tenant requirements for the liquid cooling systems are also in a state of flux. One example of this is cooling distribution unit (CDU) redundancy and how many cabinets are served from the CDU. Another challenge is dealing with a transient failure of the chiller or chilled water system, which requires a very close analysis based on the tenant's requirements. For some designs and facilities, it is possible a continuous cooling system is not needed. But, for other facilities and densities a continuous cooling system, which comprises large on-site storage tanks, is needed with an uninterrupted power supply to the central processing unit and other piping distribution requirements.
Corey Wallace: The presence of lithium-ion batteries can result in larger sprinkler system piping; a larger electric fire pump and increased power demands due to the larger fire pump. A diesel fire pump selection must account for a larger footprint, ventilation and exhaust discharge considerations. Concrete tee structures can create restrictions on where to support sprinkler piping and limit routing options. Cable tray/support steel below ceilings can generate obstructions to the sprinkler spray pattern if located within 18 inches of the sprinkler deflector. More fire sprinklers may be required to accommodate the
obstructions, therefore requiring larger pipes and potentially a larger fire pump.
CSE: What are professionals doing to ensure such projects (both new and existing structures) meet challenges associated with emerging technologies?
Chris Barth: Facilities and campuses that have flexibility and scalability as core design criteria will be best suited to adapt to emerging technologies. Predicting adoption cycles of future trends and technology in industries that move as fast as the data center industry is extremely difficult. However, designers, owners, and construction professionals can safely assume that the computing technology within these facilities will be replaced several times during the building's lifecycle. Providing adaptable building programs and systems sets building owners up for success in this rapidly changing landscape.
Jarron Gass: In an industry where speed is critical, design professionals are upgrading and building data centers to integrate as much new technology as possible, often focusing more on efficiency and scalability than strictly on cost-effectiveness. Being the first to go live offers a competitive advantage, enabling early revenue generation that can fund continued expansion. This urgency is fueling
the push for scalable and modular design approaches, which streamline both engineering and implementation. Even when navigating the complexities of varying state building and fire codes, or site-specific challenges like seismic or flood zones, modularity allows teams to adapt quickly while maintaining momentum.
Corey Wallace: Fire protection engineers must be proactive and ask questions to the end user. Systems must be designed with excess capacity to provide reasonable flexibility.
CSE: In what ways are you working with information technology (IT) experts to meet the needs and goals of a data center?
Chris Barth: IT professionals are essential for the success of any data center project. Their expertise and understanding of the underlying networks of a facility and how to secure them are crucial. IT professionals also often establish the fiber distribution design for data centers, one of the most critical aspects of facility infrastructure. IT networks for AI data centers are far more robust than that of traditional cloud computing data centers. The direct and indirect infrastructure required to support these networks can have a significant impact on building elements and systems.
Jarron Gass: IT experts who are deeply immersed in emerging data center trends and technologies provide valuable insight into floor plan layouts, which helps optimize equipment placement and ensures efficient and, where necessary, redundant connectivity. These professionals serve as a central hub of information throughout the design and integration process, helping to ensure both feasibility and constructability. A skilled IT expert collaborates closely with project or technical managers to streamline design and construction efforts, ultimately contributing to a more coordinated and successful project delivery.
Continued on pg. 48
FIGURE 2: A typical fire riser room in the Vantage Data Center building.
Courtesy: Southland Industries
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ENGINEERING INSIGHTS
CSE: How are engineers designing these kinds of projects to keep costs down?
Chris Barth: In a landscape with variable lead times, material and labor costs, as well as emerging technology considerations, early involvement with trade partners can help identify opportunities for savings without sacrificing facility functionality. Pre-fabrication, offsite pre-assembly and utilizing modular equipment assemblies are methods for how teams can provide cost-effective designs and installations.
William Kosik: The primary type of clients I'm personally working with are data center developers, who are most interested in building large data center facilities that will be leased from different companies. While all of the design
and analysis work is for the developer, it is mainly done for the tenants that might come in. So, there is friction between providing systems that are beyond the requirements of the current tenants who have to pay upfront, while keeping the system design and construction that will meet the minimum requirements of the tenant. In both cases, there will be some revisions to the data halls depending on the tenant. The trick is to understand the client’s needs ahead of time so the facility is not over or under designed.
Jarron Gass: Most cost-effective options and savings come from the repeatability of data center designs across multiple sites. Developing prototype designs, whether for specific components or entire facilities, enables faster deployment with minimal effort, especially when it comes to vertical construction. This approach supports rapid design
adaptation through relatively simple modifications.
Corey Wallace: Fire suppression and fire alarm are often considered deferred submissions. Adding these contractors to the early design process with other mechanical, electrical and plumbing disciplines allows collaboration and reduces rework. By obtaining early input, more effective space planning and programming can reduce nonvalue-added costs such as poor fire riser room locations and ceiling obstructions. cse
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