24 to create a unified platform that provides a comprehensive overview of the building ' s operations .
Feature
24 to create a unified platform that provides a comprehensive overview of the building ' s operations .
“ The integration of diverse building systems through open APIs enables the creation of a single dashboard for efficient management . Instead of dealing with multiple isolated systems , it brings together different platforms , allowing seamless communication and coordination . By integrating disparate systems , BMS simplifies operations , enhances productivity and reduces costs for end-users ,” Freeman says .
THE ROLE OF BMS IN CHALLENGING AND CRITICAL ENVIRONMENTS BMS plays a pivotal role in complex environments such as hospitals and data centres , where precise monitoring and control are paramount . Freeman notes that much of the recent impetus behind BMS stemmed from the recent Covid-19 crisis which highlighted the need for robust BMS in critical areas like ICUs . “ Oxygen plants , previously managed manually , can now be seamlessly integrated into BMS , ensuring real-time monitoring and alarm systems . This expanded scope of BMS improves overall efficiency and enhances patient safety in healthcare facilities .”
Modernising existing buildings to accommodate advanced BMS technologies can be a phased process , he notes , especially in older structures with outdated equipment . Retrofitting involves upgrading and integrating various systems to meet current standards . While it can present challenges , it is a worthwhile investment , says Freeman , in terms of efficiency , cost savings and improved building performance . The staged approach ensures a smooth transition while minimising disruptions to the building ' s operations .
A significant portion of buildings that will exist in the future already exist today . Retrofitting these buildings to enhance energy efficiency and sustainability is a pressing need . BMS plays a crucial role in upgrading legacy systems and integrating new technologies for better resource management . Whether it ' s hotels , commercial real estate , or retail spaces , BMS enables wireless setups , retrofits and visualisation of data at a national level , contributing to improved energy efficiency and guest comfort .
Retrofitting existing buildings , especially in Africa ' s hospitality industry , is critical for enhancing guest comfort and sustainability , ensuring optimal efficiency and operational excellence .
Freeman says : “ The first step in implementing a BMS is understanding the current systems in place and determining the desired monitoring and measurement requirements . The process involves installing the necessary software and integrating existing systems that are compatible with the BMS platform . Over time , additional systems can be upgraded or integrated to ensure comprehensive control and monitoring .
“ BMS is particularly well-suited for buildings with complex requirements such as data centres , hospitals , hotels and commercial office parks . These facilities often consume more energy than typical buildings and require precise monitoring and
RACA Journal I October 2023 control . Additionally , BMS can optimise energy usage and space allocation , allowing for efficient segregation of offices and dynamic adjustments to HVAC systems . Any building that benefits from intelligent control , improved energy management , and cost savings can greatly benefit from a BMS implementation .”
While a BMS can provide basic power monitoring capabilities , its primary differentiator lies in its ability to control and manage energy usage . A separate Advanced Power Monitoring System offers advanced reporting and detailed energy analysis . A BMS , on the other hand , allows for comprehensive control over energy-consuming systems , such as HVAC and generators . By optimising energy consumption and load management , BMS enables significant energy savings and facilitates meeting energy demand efficiently .
UNDERSTANDING BMS ARCHITECTURE “ BMS architecture comprises three primary layers : connected products , edge controllers and cloud-based systems . Connected products include various devices and systems within the building , such as generators , UPS ’ s and HVAC systems . Edge controllers , sitting between the building and the cloud , act as supervisory devices : they enable communication and control , collecting data from connected products and transmitting it to the cloudbased system . The cloud-based system serves as the centralised software platform where data is analysed , visualised and used for decision-making .
“ Efficient cooling is paramount in data centres to maintain optimal operating conditions . BMS enables sophisticated cooling systems , such as underfloor cooling and ducted cooling , to regulate temperature and airflow effectively . By monitoring temperature differentials , airflow rates and cooling efficiency , BMS optimises cooling operations , reduces energy consumption and ensures uniform cooling throughout the facility ,” Freeman adds .
Data centres cannot afford power interruptions as they can disrupt critical operations . “ BMS integrates with backup power solutions , including massive diesel generators and mobile generator units . The system monitors generator performance and automatically initiates power transfer during outages and synchronises multiple generators for redundancy . This ensures uninterrupted power supply and minimises downtime , safeguarding critical data and systems .”
The data centre can also adopt billing systems based on client power consumption . They play a pivotal role in accurately monitoring and recording energy consumption , enabling precise billing . By providing comprehensive data on power usage and performance , BMS helps data centres optimise energy consumption , reduce costs and improve overall efficiency .
“ Technology continues to shape the future of building management and BMS plays a pivotal role in this transformation by integrating with IoT ( Internet of Things ) devices , artificial intelligence and cloud-based analytics to optimise energy consumption , automate processes and enhance
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