www. refrigerationandaircon. co. za RACA Journal I July 2025 37
Project components, such as canopies. The HVAC team, along with the other contractors, worked together to find alternative solutions, sourcing the required materials to keep the project moving forward. Another example was delays in waterproofing causing plant room scheduling conflicts. The HVAC team adjusted their approach by utilising Unistrut mounting frames on vibration isolation footings instead of cast concrete plinths, thereby reducing precise co-ordination effort. The entire team had to react quickly, get an answer, and get the components manufactured and installed, to keep the project on track.
Another challenge involved coordinating with tenants, particularly those like butchers who had refrigeration needs for their fit-outs. Although refrigeration was not part of the HVAC scope, the integration of refrigeration systems within the building ' s infrastructure required careful coordination. The HVAC team ensured that the plant room areas were managed in a way that allowed for the efficient operation of both HVAC and refrigeration systems.
While refrigeration systems were the responsibility of the tenants ' contractors, the HVAC team was crucial in facilitating their installation by ensuring that the necessary space and support structures were in place. Communication was key here, with team members working closely to resolve issues as they arose and ensuring that the HVAC systems were compatible with the tenants ' needs.
One significant obstacle involved the sequencing of installations. For example, ducting could not be installed before the roof sheeting was complete. Early on, the team decided not to compromise on the standards, even if it meant delays. Despite pressure to complete the work before the roof was ready, sticking to this rule prevented costly mistakes. As one HVAC professional noted, " If we had installed it prematurely, it would have been a mess."
Snapshot of typical BMS interface showing exportable run time reporting for selected period of specific store.
The installation of the system was constrained by the construction timeline, as work could only commence once the building structure was in place and power was available. This created a limited installation window, requiring precise resource planning and scheduling. The contractor demonstrated exceptional project management skills, effectively scaling labour and procurement strategies to meet tight deadlines and ongoing project modifications.
The contractor’ s integrity and transparency, along with close collaboration with consultants, helped keep the project on budget and within specifications. Open communication between the HVAC team and builders ensured quick issue resolution. The team could speak directly with the site foreman, streamlining the
Image by Zuber Suleman / S Projects Image by Zuber Suleman / S Projects
PROJECT EXECUTION AND CONTRACTOR COLLABORATION The completion of the HVAC system on time reflects the benefit of effective collaboration among multiple parties, from contractors and consultants to the developer and the local community.
Thermal image of Easy Build’ s exposed HVAC installation with lighting in picture. Note highest temperature of lighting point sources at ~ 34 ° C exceeds highest temperature of roof internals. Externally insulated AC duct run in picture showing air discharge temperature.
www. refrigerationandaircon. co. za RACA Journal I July 2025 37