Aircon Design
Aircon Design
Aircon Design
Air conditioning (AC) and heating, ventilation, and air conditioning (HVAC) systems are
essential for sustaining thermal comfort in a variety of contexts; nevertheless, their extensive usage
adds greatly to the greenhouse effect. These systems release greenhouse gases via refrigerant
leakage and power usage, with air conditioning alone accounting for more than 10% of world
emissions (Vyas et al., 2020). Furthermore, the creation of energy to operate these systems
increases their environmental impact, with estimates indicating that air conditioning generates
roughly 4% of global greenhouse gas emissions (Rosenfeld et al., 2019). Aside from direct
emissions, the popularity of AC and HVAC systems may increase the urban heat island effect,
which raises local temperatures and contributes to global warming (Oke, 1977). Additionally, the
production and disposal of these systems pose environmental concerns, highlighting the intricate
relationship between thermal comfort and environmental impact.
Efforts are being made to reduce the environmental effect of air conditioning and heating
systems, with an emphasis on long-term solutions to emissions and energy usage. One strategy is
to develop and utilize low-global-warming-potential refrigerants, which may dramatically cut
emissions from these systems (Vyas et al., 2020). Furthermore, advances in energy-efficient
technology, such as variable-speed drives and enhanced insulation, provide potential to reduce
energy consumption and greenhouse gas emissions (Rohdin et al., 2015). Furthermore, boosting
passive cooling measures such as natural ventilation and shade provides opportunities to minimize
dependency on air conditioning systems, hence minimizing their environmental impact.
Finally, the interaction between air conditioning, HVAC systems, and the greenhouse
effect emphasizes the need of long-term approaches to addressing the environmental implications
of thermal comfort solutions. While these systems are essential for contemporary living, their
emissions and energy consumption contribute considerably to global warming. By embracing
sustainable technologies, increasing energy efficiency, and promoting passive cooling strategies,
we can work toward a future in which thermal comfort and environmental responsibility coexist,
mitigating the negative effects of AC and HVAC systems on the environment (Vyas et al., 2020;
Rosenfeld et al., 2019; Oke, 1977; Rohdin et al., 2015).
The objective of this project is to engineer a centralized air conditioning system that will
effectively control the room temperature within a conference hall building at Visayas State
University in accordance with the standards and guidelines set by ASHRAE and PSME. The
specific goals of this project include:
a. Evaluating the overall cooling load, taking into account factors such as occupancy,
lighting, air infiltration, and heat transfer through sunlit and non-sunlit surfaces.
b. Designing a ducting system based on the calculated parameters to ensure efficient and
precise distribution of conditioned air.
c. Designing a refrigeration system that aligns with the requirements of the Air Handling
Unit (AHU), considering the calculated parameters and efficiency criteria.
d. Developing a piping system that facilitates the flow of both water and refrigerant fluids
throughout the entire system, enabling effective heat exchange.
e. Selecting suitable equipment and machinery essential for the entire system, in
accordance with the specified design criteria.
Scope and Limitations
The study focuses on designing a centralized air conditioning system for a conference hall
building, considering thermal comfort, energy efficiency, and sustainability. It adheres to industry
standards like ASHRAE and PSME, conducts a comprehensive cooling load analysis, designs
efficient ducting and refrigeration systems, develops a piping system, and selects suitable
equipment. The study operates within budget constraints, may not account for site-specific climate
considerations, assumes no significant constraints related to existing infrastructure, and may have
limited adaptability to extreme variations in occupancy and environmental conditions. It adheres
to a specific timeframe and does not consider potential regulatory changes during the project.
CHAPTER 2
Theoretical Framework
The theoretical framework for designing a centralized air conditioning system for a
conference hall building using the CLTD (Cooling Load Temperature Difference) method offers
a structured approach to estimating the cooling load. It integrates climate data, building
characteristics, internal loads, and time-dependent factors, all aimed at optimizing system
performance and sustainability. This framework serves as a foundational structure to guide the
design process and ensure the development of an energy-efficient air conditioning system tailored
to the specific needs of the conference hall.
A cooling load calculation is essential for determining the sensible cooling load resulting
from factors like heat gain through windows, infiltration, occupants, and structural elements. The
latent cooling load is assessed individually, and while the entire building may be considered a
single zone, the system design and equipment selection should be based on a room-by-room
analysis to determine the volume of conditioned air required for each room. The total cooling load
comprises heat transfer through the building's exterior and internal heat sources, such as people,
equipment, and lighting. The term "external cooling load" encompasses the burden imposed on the
system due to heat conducted through its surrounding environment. Accurate assessment and
quantification of this external cooling load are vital for designing an efficient centralized air
conditioning system, optimizing energy efficiency, enhancing thermal comfort, and improving
overall system performance within the conference hall building.
Q = 𝑈 ∗ 𝐴 ∗ (𝐶𝐿𝑇𝐷) (1.1)
where:
𝐾𝐽
Q= cooling load, 𝐻𝑅
A = area of transfer
To determine the cooling load that the roof will withstand, the corrected CLTD of the roof
must first be estimated using the equation
A. Walls
The cooling load of the walls is computed using equations.
where:
𝑘𝑗
• 𝑄𝑤𝑎𝑙𝑙 = cooling load of the wall, ℎ𝑟
To determine the cooling load that the walls will withstand, the corrected
CLTD of the walls must first be estimated using the equation
where:
𝑇𝑚𝑎𝑥−𝑇𝑚𝑖𝑛
𝑇𝑚 = 𝑇𝑚𝑎𝑥 − ( ) ( 1.4)
2
where:
C. Doors
The cooling load of the doors is computed using equations 1.2 and 1.3.
where:
𝑘𝑗
• 𝑄doors = cooling load of the doors, ℎ𝑟
D. Floors
The cooling load of the floors is computed using equations 1.2 and 1.3.
where:
𝑘𝑗
• 𝑄floor = cooling load of the floor, ℎ𝑟
In the context of the "Design of Centralized Air Conditioning System for Conference Hall
Building," the internal cooling load pertains to the heat generated within the building due to various
internal factors, including occupants, lighting, and equipment. This calculation takes into account
both sensible and latent heat exchanges resulting from occupants, equipment, appliances, and
lighting within the building. The sensible load directly affects the dry bulb temperature, while the
latent load influences the moisture content of the conditioned air. Accurately assessing and
quantifying this internal cooling load is essential for designing an efficient centralized air
conditioning system, optimizing energy efficiency, enhancing thermal comfort, and improving
overall system performance within the conference hall building.
A. Occupants:
• Number of Occupants: The heat generated by the occupants in the conference
hall is influenced by their sheer numbers. More people in the space result in a
higher heat load. The human body continuously produces heat through metabolic
processes, and the number of occupants directly affects the overall heat
production. Therefore, a crowded conference hall with many attendees will
produce a more substantial internal cooling load than one with fewer people.
• Metabolic Activity: Metabolic activity, including actions like standing, walking,
or even more active movements, significantly impacts the heat generated by
individuals. When people are engaged in physical activities or are under stress
due to a conference's content or duration, their metabolic rate increases, leading
to higher heat production. Understanding these dynamics helps in designing a
cooling system that can effectively manage varying levels of heat output in
response to occupant behavior.
𝑄𝑠,𝑜𝑐𝑐𝑢𝑝𝑎𝑛𝑡𝑠 = 𝑁 𝑥 𝑄𝑠 𝑥 𝐶𝐿𝐹 (2.1)
where:
𝑁 = 𝑛𝑢𝑚𝑏𝑒𝑟 𝑜𝑓 𝑝𝑒𝑜𝑝𝑙𝑒
𝑄𝑙,𝑜𝑐𝑐𝑢𝑝𝑎𝑛𝑡𝑠 = 𝑁 𝑥 𝑄𝑙 ( 2.2)
where:
𝑁 = 𝑛𝑢𝑚𝑏𝑒𝑟 𝑜𝑓 𝑝𝑒𝑜𝑝𝑙𝑒
𝑄𝑙 = 𝑙𝑎𝑡𝑒𝑛𝑡 ℎ𝑒𝑎𝑡 𝑔𝑎𝑖𝑛/𝑝𝑒𝑟𝑠on
B. Lighting:
Conduction, convection, and radiation are the three primary mechanisms of heat
transfer associated with artificial lighting systems. These systems generate heat that
contributes to the cooling load within a conditioned space. The cooling load attributed
to lighting fixtures depends on several factors:
• Operating Hours: The duration for which lighting is in use also impacts the heat
load. In a conference hall that hosts events for extended periods, lighting heat
can accumulate, especially if the lights are on continuously. Effective HVAC
system design takes into account the lighting needs of the space to ensure both
energy efficiency and comfort.
C. Equipment/appliances:
The following formula must be used to determine the internal sensible load
that different appliances and pieces of equipment cause:
then use the formula to solve for the mass flow rate per room,
𝑄𝑠
𝑚𝑠 = Cp−air(∆t) (3.2)
where:
∆𝑡 = is the differential in temperature between the interior and exterior of the room
Afterwards, the volume flow rate is calculated using the formula below considering air
density at STP of 200 C and 1 atm. to be 1.204 kg/m3.
𝑚𝑠
𝑉 = 1.204 (3.3)
The volume flow rate of the first, second, and third floors is dependent on the overall
volume flow rate expressed in 𝑚3 /𝑘𝑔 in each floor.
𝑉
𝑚𝑜 = 𝑣𝑜 (4.1)
Where:
Use the total supply air equation to compute the mass of supply air.
𝑄𝑆 = 𝑚𝑎𝐶p(𝑇𝑟 – 𝑇s ) (4.2)
Where:
The mass of recirculated air is computed by subtracting the outside air mass flow rate from
the supply air mass flow rate.
𝑚𝑟 = 𝑚a – 𝑚o (4.3)
The mass balance equation is presented below, which can then be solved with the mixture
temperature to find the specific enthalpy of the air mixture.
𝑚𝑜𝑡o + 𝑚r 𝑡r = 𝑚a – 𝑡m (4.4)
Where:
𝑡o – outside temperature
𝑡r – recirculated temperature
𝑡m – mixture temperature
Following the determination of the specific enthalpy, the change in enthalpy will be
multiplied by the mass of supplied air to calculate the Refrigeration Capacity.
Where:
ℎ𝑚 – enthalpy of mixtures
ℎs – enthalpy of supply
b. Evaporator
In the "Design of Centralized Air Conditioning System for Conference Hall
Building," the refrigeration capacity, calculated using equation 20, is a pivotal factor
in determining the evaporator classification, as per ACME Refrigeration Heat
Exchangers. This capacity, typically measured in tons, holds significant importance in
establishing the required evaporator units for the system. The evaporator itself plays a
critical role in the refrigeration system, responsible for extracting heat from indoor air
to lower temperatures and ensure occupant comfort in the conference hall. Its careful
selection and design, along with other system components, are essential for optimizing
cooling efficiency and maintaining a consistent and controlled indoor climate, a vital
consideration for the success of various events hosted in the conference hall and the
well-being of attendees.
c. Pump
𝒗 = 𝒗𝒇@𝑇 = 12.22℃
𝑣𝑝𝑢𝑚𝑝 = 𝑣𝑚𝑝𝑢𝑚p
d. Condenser
The condenser in the "Design of Centralized Air Conditioning System for
Conference Hall Building" holds a central role within the HVAC system, primarily
tasked with efficiently dissipating heat from the refrigerant, effectively transforming
it from a high-pressure, high-temperature gas to a liquid state. This vital heat exchange
process enables the removal of heat previously absorbed from the indoor air, ensuring
the conference hall's efficient cooling and precise climate control. Furthermore, the
condenser serves as the connection point between the system and a cooling tower
circuit, where the refrigerant undergoes a chilling procedure, reverting it to a liquid
state. Proper selection and design of the condenser are imperative for optimizing
system performance, enhancing energy efficiency, and maintaining a consistent,
controlled indoor environment. The condenser's dependable operation significantly
contributes to achieving the desired thermal comfort, thereby supporting the success
of events in the conference hall and ensuring the well-being of its occupants.
e. Compressor
In the design of a centralized air conditioning system for a conference hall
building, the compressor is a pivotal component responsible for pressurizing and
circulating the refrigerant throughout the system, crucial for effective cooling. Key
considerations include selecting an appropriate compressor type, sizing it correctly to
meet the cooling load, prioritizing energy efficiency with technologies like variable-
speed or inverter compressors, ensuring refrigerant compatibility, addressing noise
levels, focusing on maintenance and reliability, considering redundancy for critical
applications, seamless integration within the HVAC system, and adherence to
Procedures 1-2 include the refrigerant going through processes where the
vapor refrigerant compresses and becomes superheated. Process 2-3 is a
combination of liquid vapor brought on by condensation; the refrigerant is liquid at
point 3. Step 2-3 then expands the liquid refrigerant by an enthalpic reaction. The
expanded refrigerant may evaporate or transform into a gas after evaporation.
The exact condenser model and its operating nominal capacity will be
estimated using ASME Refrigeration Heat Exchangers and the previously
computed mass flow rate of the refrigerant R-22. For calculating the actual
condenser heat, the equation below is being used.
𝑄𝑐𝑜𝑛𝑑 = 𝑚𝑟𝑒𝑓(ℎ2 − ℎ3) (4.10)
f. Cooling Tower
@𝑇𝑜 = 12.22℃
𝑉𝑤 = 𝑣𝑚𝑤
𝑉𝑝𝑢𝑚𝑝 = 𝑉𝑤 (4.12)
g. Make – up Water
Make-up water in the design of a centralized air conditioning system for a
conference hall building refers to the water needed to replace the loss from evaporation
during the cooling process. A secondary pump is used to regulate the required make-
up water, with its capacity and head calculated to meet the specific demands of the
cooling tower. This practice is essential to maintain the cooling tower's water level for
efficient operation. It involves considerations such as sourcing quality water,
calculating the required quantity based on evaporation rates, implementing water
treatment for preventing scaling and corrosion, utilizing monitoring and control
systems, selecting a reliable source, and adhering to sustainability practices to
minimize water waste and meet conservation regulations. Effective make-up water
management is vital for enhancing the cooling tower's efficiency, lifespan, and overall
system performance while reducing environmental impact.
When selecting a cooling tower model, the following equations will help with
determining the amount of make-up water needed for the cooling tower since
They are useful for determining the quality of water that evaporates.
For the mass flow rate of the make – up water:
𝑚𝑚𝑢 = 𝑚𝑤𝑙𝑜𝑠𝑠𝑒𝑣𝑎𝑝 (4.13)
Where:
𝑚𝑚𝑢 – mass of the make – up water
𝑚𝑤 – mass of the flow rate of water
𝑙𝑜𝑠𝑠𝑒𝑣𝑎𝑝 – quality of water lost due to evaporation
Where:
𝑅𝑒 – Reynold’s Number
𝐴 – cross sectional area of the pipe
𝑚𝑚𝑢 – mass flow rate of the make – up water
μ – dynamic viscosity @ T = 29.44℃
μ = 0.0008086 Pa – s
Re 2000 denotes laminar flow; Re > 2000 denotes critical flow; and Re
4000, whereas Re > 4000 is the definition of turbulent flow. The formula for any
one of the The friction factor can be obtained with ease using two types of flows.
Poiseuille's rule means that the For laminar flows, the Darcy friction factor can be
calculated using the following formula. taken from the Fifth Edition of
Fundamentals of Engineering Thermodynamics (2006):
64
𝑓= − 𝑓𝑜𝑟 𝑙𝑎𝑚𝑖𝑛𝑎𝑟 𝑓𝑙𝑜𝑤 (4.16)
Re
The friction factor of laminar flow depends only on the Reynolds number
and independent of the internal state of the pipe. Consequently, whether the pipe
is smooth or not. For laminar flow, the friction factor is a number that changes
inversely as the Reynolds number. Menon (2015) stated.
The total head and height required for the pump to successfully supply
makeup water to the cooling tower, taking into consideration all significant and
minor losses imposed by the pipelines, is known as the pump head. This is
calculated using the Darcy-Weisbach equation and accounting for small losses. It
may be necessary to add on more fixtures, appliances, or devices, like a damper,
in order to comply with the specifications.
Concurrently, the design of the piping system is integral to the air conditioning system's
overall efficiency in the conference hall building. This involves meticulous planning in terms of
layout, insulation, pipe sizing, material selection, valves and controls, zoning for temperature and
airflow regulation, accessibility for maintenance, pressure considerations, water quality
maintenance, and compliance with safety and environmental standards. Collaborating with
experienced HVAC professionals ensures that the piping system aligns with the building's specific
needs, maintaining indoor comfort while operating efficiently and safely.