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Technical
advancing building technology, establishing new standards for energy efficiency and environmental responsibility.
PROJECT TWO: PLOT C396, ABU DHABI, UAE Following the success of their first project in Abu Dhabi, AHI Carrier embarked on another project, this time optimising HVAC solutions for a multi-floor residential building comprising 131 apartments. This project, also located in the UAE, showcases a different design approach aimed at maximising energy efficiency and sustainability though the requirements were the same: heating, cooling and water reduction.
The initial design for the building utilised Toshiba ' s VRF heat pump systems for space conditioning of the apartments and the
common grounds; FAHUs with DX coils and VRF CDUs for the air treatment of the apartments and the common grounds; along with conventional electric water heaters for domestic hot water in the apartments.
AHI Carrier was again called in to enhance the system ' s efficiency by integrating advanced technologies and sustainable practices.
AHI Carrier proposed a comprehensive solution that included Toshiba VRF systems for space conditioning of the apartments and the common grounds; air to water heat pumps and FAHUs for air treatment; heating unit interfaces utilising heat captured by solar panels and the air-to-water heat pump for sanitary hot water during cooling cycles to supplement hot water requirements, ensuring efficient energy use throughout the year.
This resulted in annual power savings of 73.7 % compared to the standard solution in SHW on energy consumption and GHG emissions, for a return on investment of 6.7 years.
To further enhance sustainability, AHI Carriers incorporated passive solar systems atop the building ' s water storage tanks. Space limitations meant only 150m2 was available for solar panels, and simulations showed it would deliver only 20-23 % towards the building ' s hot water needs through solar energy, which was insufficient, which is why a water reclamation heat pump solution was adapted.
The system design includes intricate piping systems that facilitate heat reclamation from the heat pumps and solar panels into the storage tanks. This stored energy is then distributed via manifolds to the heating liquid phases throughout the building. This holistic approach not only maximises energy efficiency but also minimises operational costs and environmental impact.
AHI Carrier navigated local regulatory challenges by utilising available technologies from Cairo and Riyadh, as specific products like the SHRM were not yet certified for use in the UAE. This adaptive approach points to flexibility and expertise in tailoring solutions to meet regional regulatory requirements while maintaining high standards of performance and efficiency. Central to the project ' s success is the implementation of a BMS that monitors and controls all HVAC components, including chillers, heat pumps, VRF systems, and hot water production units. This centralised oversight ensures optimal system performance and responsiveness to varying environmental conditions. RACA
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Airstream Components Africa( Pty) Ltd
Unit 17, 178 Barbara Road, Elandsfontein Tel: 011 8221486 | Fax: 011 8221493 Email: cliff @ airstreamafrica. co. za
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RACA Journal I July 2025 www. refrigerationandaircon. co. za