Project
ICUs HEPA filters have been shown to be effective in reducing the viral load of airborne contaminants with multiple passes . This coupled with an already high total air change within the ICU / HCU provides an efficient alternative to running the AHU on full fresh air . The following was implemented in these areas :
• All AHUs fitted with HEPA filtration .
• All isolation room fans will be switchable enabling protective and infectious isolation protocols .
© RACA Journal | Benjamin Brits
Medical gas pipe reticulation .
The HEPA filtration housing on air handling units . |
© Spoormaker and Partners |
© RACA Journal | Benjamin Brits |
A jet movement fan in the underground parking area . |
DIFFICULTY IN MEETING DESIGN SPECIFICATION / SOLUTIONS The only element that provided some challenges in this project was the implementation of the COVID-19 design interventions . The technical solution was relatively straightforward , however arriving at the correct result took considerable research given that the information around COVID-19 and HVAC infrastructure was continuously evolving and insignificant research was present at the time .
In the end , the solution that was implemented is still regarded by ASHRAE , and other international bodies , as one of the best design interventions that can assist a facility with providing increased levels of safety for air borne virus similar to the coronavirus family .
© RACA Journal | Benjamin Brits
Cold and freezer room condensers .
PRODUCTS USED IN THE PROJECT As with all product selections , a reputable and well known product is always sought out for a project of this magnitude . The client cannot afford the risk in implementing untried and untested products on such a scale across a flagship facility .
The two largest HVAC products implemented were the air handling units ( 46-of ) and VRF system ( 566 indoor units , 104 condensers ). These two products were individually tendered to the industry with TROX SA and Mitsubishi Electric Airconditioning winning the tenders respectively . The total VRF cooling capacity is 2.2MW .
© RACA Journal | Benjamin Brits
One of the VRF booster and HEX unit installations .
www . refrigerationandaircon . co . za RACA Journal I August 2022 37