Methodology for Designing Bespoke Air Handling Units

Abstract: This master's thesis explores the role of bespoke air handling units in enhancing energy efficiency in existing buildings. The context for the study is set against the backdrop of global initiatives, including the United Nations' Sustainable Development Goals, specifically Goal 7, which emphasizes the need to improve energy efficiency to combat climate change. The significance of enhancing energy efficiency is well-established, evident both at the EU level and in national policies and regulations. Buildings represent a significant portion of the energy utilization puzzle, with substantial potential for enhancing energy efficiency, although it is often underutilized. One of the contributing factors to inefficiency is outdated ventilation systems, which lead to high thermal losses. This challenge can be addressed by retrofitting these systems with modern, efficient air handling units, thus contributing to energy conservation and cost savings. This study focuses on the adoption of bespoke air handling units adjusted to the site and capable of accommodating constraints related to factors such as space limitations in machine rooms, existing ductwork layouts, and the location of shafts. The primary goal is to empower engineers to move beyond conventional approaches, enabling them to optimize technology choices based on local conditions, specific system performance requirements, and the economic viability of each project. The aim of this study is twofold: first, to develop a methodology for designing bespoke air handling units; and second, to demonstrate the practical application of this methodology in the context of two distinct renovation projects. In line with the aim of the thesis, a design methodology for site-tailored units equipped with a two stage flat crossflow heat exchanger and an indirect evaporative cooling system was developed. The methodology delves into different aspects of data analysis, 3D modeling, and the conduct of performance calculations.The established methodology was applied in two reconstruction projects in central Stockholm, where bespoke air handling units were designed in compliance with provided technical specifications. In both scenarios, a viable option emerged for accommodating a tailored unit within the technical room situated on the first floor. For both units, the energy performance metrics signify a notable achievement in terms of heat recovery efficiency, coupled with relatively modest requirements for heating and cooling power capacity from the combined heating and cooling aircoil. However, the calculated maximum specific fan power for a single unit with heat recovery exceeded the stipulated value specified in the technical specifications, which was accepted by the client. The results of the study included air handling unit product drawings, ventilation blueprints of the technical room with the integrated air handling unit, component specifications, unit flowcharts, performance calculations, and control operating pictures. The results of this work indicate that the improvement of the building's energy efficiency is rendered feasible through the installation of bespoke air handling units in the studied reconstruction projects.