HVAC - Centralized vs. Decentralized Air Conditioning Systems

Successful Heating, Ventilating, and Air Conditioning (HVAC) systems are the key to successful buildings. Because each building is different, it is very important to choose a system that is right for the facility. Proper selection of the HVAC system is a crucial decision for any new project and the decision depends upon a number of factors like how large area needs to be cooled, what is the application, what kind of total heat is generated inside the enclosed area, the developer's preference - initial installation cost, aesthetics, and long term maintenance and life cycle costs etc etc. The HVAC engineer would consider all the related parameters and suggest the system most suitable for your space. Many different HVAC systems are available today but the design and selection of right HVAC system must combine a proper choice of engineered products efficiently providing conditioned air to the space at optimum energy while adding architectural features which complement the interior design. This 5 -hour course discusses the various issues to be considered and the questions to be raised before an intelligent, well-thought HVAC scheme is finalized. The distinction between 'central' and local floor-by-floor 'compact' systems is critical from an architectural perspective and shall serve the primary theme for this course. The course is intended for use primarily to the architects, engineers, contractors, facility managers, O&M personnel and HVAC designers. Learning Objective At the conclusion of this course, the student will: - Understand the different types of HVAC systems; - Understand the HVAC design challenges on various architectural and functional parameters; - Understand the difference between central and decentralized systems; - Understand the central chilled water system sub-configurations; - Understand various types of decentralized systems (window, split, package, heat pumps and VRF systems); - Understand the pros and cons of the central and compact systems; - Understand how to select the right system for your application.