RACA Journal January 2025 RACA_January2025 | Page 33

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ALEC JOHANNSEN : DNA OF HVAC EXCELLENCE

SAIRAC Fellow Alec Johannsen ’ s career journey is anything but conventional . He began in research before making a bold leap into private consulting , shaping the HVAC sector over the last 60 years in unexpected ways .

Johannsen completed his MSc ( Eng ) in HVAC installations at the

Warsaw Institute of Technology in 1961 , and later obtained a DSc ( Eng ) from the University of Pretoria in 1983 . He dedicated more than 20 years to the CSIR , where he focused on research in applied thermodynamics , particularly in relation to HVAC systems . Although the pace in research was slower compared to the fast-moving commercial sector , this environment allowed him to delve deeply into complex issues , enhancing his understanding of both challenges and solutions .

“ A useful lesson I learned was to harness the power of computers to solve engineering challenges ,” Johannsen recalls . He acquired programming skills and developed computer-drawn psychrometric charts for various altitudes , some of which are still used today . His research also led to software for simulating evaporation rates from industrial effluent dams and designing refrigerated beer tanks .

His shift to private consulting was driven by a desire to translate his research findings into practical applications , balancing considerations of cost and feasibility . “ I ’ ve worked on a wide variety of projects across the HVAC field , even involving jet fighter aircraft . Each project presents an opportunity for creative HVAC system design , balancing often conflicting requirements .”

Among his significant contributions is the BSIMAC software for HVAC design and building energy requirements . This software , a product of years of development , requires ongoing user support and updates to align with state-of-the-art practices . Certified by Agrément South Africa for assessing energy needs in buildings , BSIMAC is also listed in the ANSI / ASHRAE 140-2023 standard as a participating programme .

A vital lesson from his time at CSIR was the importance of clear report writing . His director , the late Dr Denkhaus , insisted that he should be able to grasp the main arguments of any report , even those outside his expertise . “ This caused me some stress at the time , but I now see the value in his demand for clarity .”

“ Engineering runs in my family ; my father was a civil engineer , and my grandfather a mining engineer ,” Johannsen explains . “ I became fascinated by thermodynamics and fluid mechanics during my studies . These fields deal with energy and fluid flow , which feel almost ‘ alive ,’ even when composed of mechanical components . HVAC systems , in particular , respond noticeably to design changes , giving the designer a sense of control .”

He finds thermodynamics intriguing not only for its application in HVAC but also for its fundamental role in broader scientific contexts , such as cosmology and the energy management of living cells . “ It ’ s exciting to be part of something so significant !”

Johannsen advises young engineers to build their experience on a solid foundation of scientific principles . “ Accumulate practical experience , but always pair it with theoretical knowledge . If you rely solely on experience , you may encounter unfamiliar situations and feel lost without a theoretical framework to guide you .”

Reflecting on his career , he acknowledges the satisfaction that comes from completing projects and the camaraderie built through collaboration . He also feels a profound sense of awe when a functional system validates complex theories , demonstrating their real-world application .

He emphasises the need for coordination among team members during the early design stages of a project . Too often , HVAC engineers are consulted only after a building ’ s design is finalised , leading to clashes between systems and sub-optimal outcomes .

“ With the current global warming trend , the role of HVAC & R will increase as it helps mitigate environmental impacts ,” Johannsen predicts . He hopes that improving living standards in developing nations will expand the application of HVAC & R technologies . RACA

Supplied by Alec Johannsen www . refrigerationandaircon . co . za RACA Journal I January 2025 31