Mccoy Ufad 080806

Designing UFAD Systems: Updated Guidelines McCoy UFAD Workshop
August 8, 2006
Acknowledgments Designing Underfloor Air Distribution (UFAD) Systems:

Updated Guidelines Course Development Taylor Engineering
Allan Daly
McCoy Specialty Products Houston, Texas August 8, 2006 Fred Bauman, P.E. Center for the Built Environment, University of California, Berkeley
Pacific Gas & Electric Co. ASHRAE Projects, Images Arup, Flack + Kurtz, Halton Company, Nailor Industries, Price Industries, Tate Access Floors, Titus, York International
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Agenda
8:15-8:45 8:45-9:45 9:45-10:15
10:15 -10:30
Introduction Diffusers and Stratification Comfort and IAQ

Break
Introduction 8:15 8:45
10:30-11:25 11:25-11:40 11:40-12:00

12:00 -1:00
Underfloor Plenums Horizontal and Vertical Distribution Demo of McCoy UFAD Showroom
Lunch
1:00-1:45 1:45-2:15 2:15-2:30 2:30-2:45 2:45-3:00

3:00 -3:15
Load Calculations, Energy Commissioning and Operations Post-Occupancy Evaluations How to Decide to Go with UFAD? Wrap-Up, Conclusions
Break
3:15-4:00
Questions/Open Discussion
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CBE Organization
Industry/University Cooperative Research Center (I/UCRC) National Science Foundation provides support and evaluation Industry Advisory Board shapes research agenda Semi-annual meetings emphasize interaction, shared goals and problem solving
Arup*
CBE Industry Partners

Armstrong World Industries California Department of General Services California Energy Commission Charles M. Salter Associates Flack + Kurtz, Inc. HOK Pacific Gas & Electric Co. Price Industries RTKL, Associates, Inc.
Skidmore Owings and Merrill Stantec
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Steelcase, Inc. Syska Hennessy Group Tate Access Floors Inc.* Taylor Engineering Team:

Taylor Engineering CTG Energetics Guttmann & Blaevoet Southland Industries Swinerton Builders
Trane U.S. Department of Energy (DOE)* U.S. General Services Administration (GSA)* Webcor Builders* York International Corporation
*founding partner
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Fred Bauman, CBE
August 8, 2006
CBE UFAD Research

CBEs research program on UFAD systems has an annual budget of ~$500K studying the following topics:
Energy modeling Room air stratification Underfloor plenum performance Field studies First and life-cycle cost model Design and commissioning guidelines Technology transfer
55F-57F
Overhead System
Underfloor air distribution system
Potential UFAD Benefits

Improved occupant comfort, productivity and health Improved ventilation efficiency and indoor air quality Reduced energy use Reduced life-cycle building costs Improved flexibility for building services Reduced floor-to-floor height in new construction
60F-65F
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Underfloor vs. Conventional Air Distribution System Design Issues

Underfloor air supply plenum Air supplied into occupied zone near floor level Higher supply air temperatures (for cooling) Allows for occupant control Properly controlled stratification leads to reduced energy use while maintaining comfort Reduced space sensible heat load Perimeter zone solutions are critical Access floor improves flexibility and re-configurability
Current Barriers to UFAD Technology

Lack of familiarity by building industry Higher first costs Need for design guidelines and tools Fundamental research needed on key issues
Room air stratification Underfloor plenums Energy performance Thermal comfort and ventilation effectiveness
Problems with applicable standards and codes

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Fred Bauman, CBE

Room Air Stratification
(cooling operation)
August 8, 2006
Floor Construction
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Integrated Service Plenum
Underfloor Air & Power

PLUG & PLAY POWER and CONTROLS
VAV Diffuser
Modular Wiring
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Underfloor HVAC Concept
ASHRAE Research Project RP-1064: UFAD Design Guide

Project start: September 1999 Primary author Fred Bauman Contributing author Allan Daly Sponsored by ASHRAE and CBE Technical oversight by TC 5.3, Room Air Distribution Guide published by ASHRAE in December 2003 Available from ASHRAE bookstore Developed ASHRAE Professional Development Seminar (PDS)
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ASHRAE UFAD Design Guide

CONTENTS (243 pp.)
1. 2. 3. 4. 5. 6. 7. 8.
Development of UFAD Design Guide

Design Guide material
Research (laboratory, field, simulation) Design experience (literature, interviews, case studies) Manufacturers literature Includes UFAD and closely related task/ambient conditioning (TAC) systems Covers topics in which important differences exist between UFAD and conventional overhead design Identifies areas where more work is needed
Introduction Room Air Distribution Thermal Comfort and Indoor Air Quality Underfloor Air Supply Plenums UFAD Equipment Controls, Operation, and Maintenance Energy Use Design, Construction, and Commissioning
9. 10. 11. 12. 13. 14. 15. 16. 17.
Perimeter and Special Systems Cost Considerations Standards, Codes, and Ratings Design Methodology Examples Future Directions Glossary References and Annotated Bibliography Index
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Current status of UFAD technology

Strong interest due to several attractive features
Current database of UFAD projects in North America
~300-400 installations ~50-55 million ft2
How Many UFAD Projects are Installed?

Through 2000, approximately 80 projects representing some 20 million sq ft in US. Between 2000-2002, the number of new projects represented another 25 million sq ft. CBE currently maintains database of North American UFAD projects with over 300 installations representing 50-55 million sq ft. The jobs are getting larger. The Bank One Center in Chicago (1.5 million sq ft) was completed in 2003 and several more projects over 1 million sq ft are now in design or under construction.
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Routinely considered as HVAC design option Ongoing research and experience in the field are generating new and improved information Problems found in completed UFAD installations are often the same as those found in overhead buildings
Conservative design Poor construction practice Inadequate commissioning, controls, and operation
UFAD market penetration

Alternative systems such as UFAD now being considered routinely as design options Over 300 projects in CBE database, estimate ~400 in North America North America UFAD projects (estimated % of new commercial office buildings)
Ratio % Raised floor UFAD/Raised floor
UFAD Market Drivers

Lower churn costs (increase flexibility), allowing office space to be reconfigured faster and cheaper Reduced energy use Green building movement associated with the U.S. Green Building Council (USGBC) and LEED (Leadership in Energy and Environmental Design) rating system Increased awareness of occupant benefits provided by personal comfort control and improved indoor air quality
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1999 2002 2005
3% 7% 12%
10% 15% 45%
Fred Bauman, CBE
August 8, 2006
Diffuser types
Variable area (VA)
Diffusers and Stratification 8:45 9:45
Swirl
Swirl, horizontal discharge Linear bar grille
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Swirl Diffusers
Personal control of swirl diffuser

Rotate face plate
Swirl floor diffuser

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Personal control of swirl diffuser
Individual Plenum Box
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August 8, 2006
Office cubicles
Too many!
One diffuser per workstation

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Variable-Area Diffuser
Proprietary Product
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Variable Air Volume Performance
New VAV Diffuser with Time Modulation
CONSISTANT VELOCITY - VARIABLE VOLUME

Maintain constant discharge velocity even as air reduces
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August 8, 2006
Digital Pulse Width Modulation
Bar Grilles in Perimeter
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New Linear Grilles for Perimeter
Underfloor variable-speed fan-coil
Perimeter solution:
Return Air Plenum Glazing Return Air Grille No U/A diffusers in perimeter zones Raised Access Floor T Heating Coil Linear Bar Diffuser
Fan Coil w/ ECM motor Flex Duct

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Variable Speed Fan-Coil Control

Max Fan Speed Design Fan Speed
130F Discharge Air Temperature Setpoint
Design Airflow
Airflow
Airflow 30% Design Airflow
30% Design Fan Speed Lowest Possible Fan Speed (~15% Max Fan Speed)
Fan Speed
Fan Speed
60F
Heating Loop Output Deadband Cooling Loop Output
Minimum Airflow (due to pressurized plenum)
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Fred Bauman, CBE

Perimeter solution:
August 8, 2006
Underfloor variable-speed fan-coil
Perimeter solution variable-area diffuser

Cooling mode
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Perimeter solution variable-area diffuser

Heating mode
Task/Ambient Conditioning Systems

Desktop control for maximum occupant comfort control Relatively rare in practice
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Diffuser Code Compliance

In the past, technically only all-metal diffusers could meet all code flame spread and smoke ratings For plastic diffusers:
UL 94 (Flammability of Plastic Devices) NFPA 90A (smoke developed index <= 50) Smoke test protocol is NFPA 255 (burn 25 ft sample) NFPA 90A exception (smoke optical density) NFPA 262 or UL 2043 (new test for smoke generation from plastic diffusers in 2002 edition of NFPA 90A)
Room air stratification

(cooling operation)
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August 8, 2006
Overhead Air Distribution System
Displacement Ventilation System
Mixing system tries to maintain uniform temperature and ventilation conditions throughout space
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Minimize mixing in occupied zone Stratification height (SH) separates upper and lower zones
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Displacement Ventilation Diffusers
Displacement Ventilation Installations
Schools, atriums
School Auditoriums, theaters

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Atrium
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Underfloor Air Distribution System
Increased mixing up to throw height (TH) Diffuser throw below stratification height (SH) Diffuser throw above stratification level (SH)
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August 8, 2006
Air Patterns
Diffuser Comparison
displacement
Model
Discharge Setting Vertical Vertical Vertical Full Spread Vertical Vertical
Airflow
[ft3/min]
Vertical Throw to Clear Zone 50 fpm Radius

[ft] [ft]
Swirl Variable Area
100 75 150 110 75 / ft 40 / ft
4-6 2.5 - 4.5 8 5 25 18
1.5 1.5 2.0 4.5 -
swirl
Bar
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Room Air Stratification Testing

Approach
Full-scale laboratory tests of commercially available floor diffusers in realistic office setting. Study impact of various design and operating parameters on room air stratification (RAS).
Room Air Temperature Profile
RAT
Height
Ceiling Troom
Temperature at head height Tstat
Significance
Control of stratification is crucial to:
Proper design System sizing Energy efficient operation Thermal comfort Indoor air quality
Ankle (4 in.)
SAT
Head (67 in.)

Toz,avg
Tstat (48 in.)

Temperature near the floor
Occupied zone (OZ) Toz
Temperature
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Stratification test results

Effect of airflow rate: constant load, swirl diffusers, interior zone, SAT=65F ASHRAE Std.55-2004
Stratification Test Results

Effect of throw height: Swirl diffusers, constant load/room airflow
Room Temperature [C] 20.0 10 9 21.1 22.2 23.3 24.4 25.6 26.7 3.0 2.7 2.4
14 diffusers, lowest throw
11 10 9 8
5F T
6 workstations
Height, ft
6 5 4 3 2 1 0 69 70 71 72 73 74 75 76 77 78 79 80 81 82
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5 4 3 2 1
12 diffusers
1.5 1.2
6 diffusers, highest throw 8 diffusers 10 diffusers
0.9 0.6 0.3 0.0
Still satisfies vertical temperature difference (5F) with 40% less air
0 68 70 72 74 Room Temperature [F] 76 78 80
Room Temperature, F
Interior zone with constant diffuser supply air temperature = 65F
Height [m]
Height [ft]
1.0 cfm/sq. ft 0.6 cfm/sq. ft 0.3 cfm/sq. ft
8 7 6
2.1 1.8
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August 8, 2006
Variable Area vs. Swirl

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Stratification Test Results

Effect of supply air temperature: constant load/airflow, swirl diffusers
VA Diffuser
Swirl Diffuser SW-1 SW-2 VA-1 VA-2 VA-3

69 70 71 72 73 74 75 76 77 78 79 80 81 82
Height, ft
7 6 5 4 3 2 1 0
Room Temperature, F
Source: ASHRAE Journal May 2002
R oom L oad W / ft 2 2 .6 2 .9 1 .8 2 .5 2 .7 R oom A i r f lo w c fm /ft2 0 .8 0 .8 0 .4 0 .6 0 .6 D iffu s er f l o w r a te , (% o f d e s ig n ) 70% 30% 40% 90% 40% 50 fpm T h ro w ft 7 ~7 ~7 ~4 ~2
T est V A -1 V A -2 V A -3 S W -1 S W -2
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Stratification and Airflow in Perimeter Zones

Effect of blinds and throw height: bar grilles, constant load
Room Temperature [C] 20.0 10 9 8 7 Height [ft] 6 5 4 3 2 1 0 68 70 72 74 76 78 80 82 84 Room Temperature [F] Blinds open, 8 Linear bar grilles, vanes at 90 1.6 cfm/sf 21.1 22.2 23.3 24.4 25.6 26.7 27.8 28.9 3.0 2.7 2.4 2.1 Height [m] Blinds closed, 8 Linear bar grilles, vanes at 90 1.0 cfm/sf Blinds open, 10 Linear bar grilles, vanes at 53 1.3 cfm/sf 1.8 1.5 1.2 0.9 0.6 0.3 0.0
RAS Testing Results

(Cooling performance) The amount of stratification is primarily driven by room airflow relative to load, and throw height.
Stratification will increase as room airflow and/or diffuser throw height are reduced for constant heat input. If too much air is delivered or throw height is too high, stratification will be reduced (approaching a well-mixed system), thereby compromising energy performance (increased fan energy, and lower RAT). Optimized control strategies should promote stratification (reduce airflow requirements), while balancing this with comfort considerations (T < 3-4F in occupied zone). To offset the effects of stratification, consider increasing thermostat setpoint by 1-2F, especially in interior zones.
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Peak solar load
Constant diffuser supply air temperature = 65F
RAS Testing Results

(Perimeter zone cooling) Key perimeter zone issues
Supply air temperature Diffuser throw height, airflow rate, amount of mixing Blinds up or blinds down Airflow rates significantly lower with blinds closed and lower throw
78 76 74 72 70 68 80
Stratification (in practice)

Monitored Data from an Underfloor System
Sensor Locations 10' 8' 6' 4' 2' 0'
Perimeter Office 1st floor, east perim
stratification during cooling mode
mixing during heating mode
6am
Tue 8/22
noon
6pm
Wed 8/23
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August 8, 2006
Controlling Room Air Stratification

Guidelines
Promote stratification (reduce airflow requirements), while maintaining comfort: T < 3-4F in occupied zone. Dont be too conservative! Airflow should be about the same as OH systems. Provide controls to reduce airflow to interior (rather than raise setpoint only) in case sizing is too conservative.
Comfort and IAQ 9:45 10:15
Technology needs
Cooling airflow design tool Impact of stratification on thermal comfort Identify thermostat control strategies
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Variations in Individual Preferences
Thermal Comfort
Thermal Comfort
Clothing Activity level Body weight & size Personal preferences

Light office activity, light jacket, slacks
Sedentary, Skirt, blouse, pantyhose
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Personal Control
Field research: Occupants with no control are twice as sensitive to temperature changes Less control = more hot/cold complaints
Thermal Comfort
Traditional approach
Satisfy up to 80% of building occupants
Underfloor approach
Allow personal control of the local thermal environment satisfy up to 100% of occupants reduce occupant complaints Existing fan-driven (TAC) supply outlets provide sizable range of temperature control: desktop 13F (7C); floor 9F (5C) Passive diffusers (no fan power) dont provide as much local temperature control, but improve perception of individual control
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Fred Bauman, CBE
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Comfort Standards
August 8, 2006
(Impact of stratification on thermal comfort)
Ongoing Comfort Research

Use the CBE advanced thermal comfort model to evaluate comfort in stratified environments
Transient, thermo-physiological model 16 body segments Heat loss by evaporation (sweat), convection, radiation, and conduction Detailed clothing model User-defined 3-D geometry and detailed boundary conditions, including local temperatures and velocities, direct solar load, and radiation heat transfer from room surfaces
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ASHRAE 55 and ISO 7730 define a 5F (3C) limit on vertical air stratification The limit was based on Olesens study in 1979 on 16 college students
CBE comfort model

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Thermal comfort in stratified environments

Paper presented at Indoor Air 2005, Beijing, China
Operative temperature (F)
73.4 8 7 74.4 75.4 76.4 77.4 78.4 79.4 80.4 81.4
Ongoing Comfort Research

CBE advanced thermal comfort model indicates that greater stratification (> 5F) may be acceptable in middle of comfort zone. New research is needed to define comfort criteria in stratified environments
Impact of stratification over full range of comfort zone temperatures
Acceptable Stratification (C)
6 5 4 3 2 1 0 23.0
ASHRAE/ISO Stratification Limit
Comfort with and without personal control Impact of localized heating or cooling (TAC systems) on thermal comfort
23.5
24.0
24.5
25.0
25.5
26.0
26.5
27.0
27.5
Operative temperature (C)
clo=0.6, met=1.0 75 76
Indoor Air Quality

Traditional approach
Provide uniform ventilation throughout space
Room Air Stratification

(cooling operation)
Underfloor approach
Fresh air is delivered closer to the occupants Floor-to-ceiling air flow pattern provides improved IAQ in occupied zone (up to 6 ft [1.8 m]) Local air supply improves air motion, preventing sensation of stagnant air (associated w/ poor IAQ)
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August 8, 2006
Air Change Effectiveness (ACE)

Local ACE at breathing level =
ACE < 1 ACE = 1 ACE > 1 short circuiting mixed better ventilation performance
ASHRAE Std. 62.1-2004, Addendum N
Age of air at return ( return ) Age of air at breathing level ( bl )
Global air change effectiveness (ACE)

Overhead (OH) systems (0.8 heating, 1.0 cooling) Displacement ventilation (DV) (0.7 heating, 1.2 cooling) Underfloor air distribution (no data available yet: 0.7 heating, 1.0 cooling) Task/ambient conditioning (up to 2.7 for desktop supply)
bl
return
Local air motion improves perceived air quality

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German Study of Ventilation Performance

Analysis and Testing of Methods to Determine Indoor Air Quality and Air-Exchange Effectiveness Authors: Andreas Jung and Prof. Manfred Zeller Rheinisch-Westflische Technical University of Aachen, Germany Published 1994 Sponsored by FLT Research Federation for Air and Drying Technology Laboratory study CBE has translated the report to English and will post on CBE website
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Test conditions
100% outside air for all tests Four diffuser types
Ceiling twist Ceiling slot Floor twist (UFAD) Displacement ventilation (DV)
CASE 1
Investigate impact of air exchange rates (2.5, 5 and 8 per hour = 0.35, 0.7 and 1 cfm/sf) at constant internal load (20 W/m2 = 1.8 W/ft)
CASE 2
Investigate impact of arrangement and type of heat sources (3 load levels: 20, 40 and 65 W/m2 = 1.8, 3.7 and 6 W/ft2) Air exchange rates were adjusted to maintain same room temperature difference (return supply) of about 8.5K = 15.3F
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Floor twist diffusers

Test Conditions
Number and arrangement of diffusers changed between tests to achieve constant airflow rates per diffuser (~35 m3/h = 20 cfm) Throw height of diffusers is ~1.1 m (3.6 ft) Due to small airflow per diffuser, there were a large number of diffusers distributed across floor
6m = 19.7ft
Floor and ceiling plans

4m = 13.1ft Ceiling twist diffuser 24m 258ft Ceiling slot diffusers
Swirl diffusers
Ventilated light fixtures for return air DV diffusers

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August 8, 2006
Location of heat sources
Local values of ACE for design case
1 2 3
Nearly adiabatic conditions
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Findings for floor twist diffusers Case 2

Local and global air exchange effectiveness
Conclusions German Study

Ceiling twist and ceiling slot diffusers
Create nearly mixed conditions
Global ACEs
Attention to short-circuiting
Floor twist diffusers and DV systems

Significantly increase supply of fresh air within the breathing zone of occupants UFAD
Global ACEs are in the range of 1.2 to 1.3
At section 2 of test chamber
Local ACEs are in the range of 1.2 to 1.8
DV
Global ACEs are in the range of 1.2 to 1.3 Local ACEs are in the range of 0.8 to 3.7
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Research needed to investigate typical U.S. UFAD configurations
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Research needed
Ventilation performance in UFAD systems
Lack of quantitative data on ventilation performance of current-generation UFAD systems ASHRAE 1373-TRP: Air distribution effectiveness with stratified air distribution systems. At the ASHRAE Annual Meeting in Quebec City (June 2006) proposals were reviewed by TC 5.3 for a laboratory and CFD study of UFAD and displacement ventilation systems. A contractor was selected and work should begin soon (2-year study) CBE is seeking funding to conduct field study (with Lawrence Berkeley Laboratory) of ventilation effectiveness and pollutant removal efficiency in existing UFAD office building
Break 10:15 10:30
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August 8, 2006
Underfloor Air Supply Plenums
Underfloor Plenums 10:30 11:25
Room
Return Plenum
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Plenum Design Variations

Pressurized plenum
Passive diffusers Most common approach and focus of current practice
Airflow Performance Issues

Objective deliver desired amount of air
Pressurized vs. zero-pressure Reduced static pressure Plenum height (obstructions) Size of plenum zone Air leakage Plenum inlet conditions
Inlet velocity Inlet direction (open, vanes, plates) Location in zone
Zero-pressure plenum
Active (fan-powered) diffusers Not as popular due to perceived higher costs
Fully ducted
Not as popular due to high cost and lack of flexibility
Most designs are hybrid solutions

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Number of inlets in zone

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Underfloor Air Supply Plenums Research Results

Phase 1 Airflow Performance
Objective Investigate practical plenum configuration issues, including minimum plenum height, for which acceptable airflow performance can be achieved in pressurized underfloor plenums. Approach Empirical experiments in full-scale underfloor air supply plenum test facility.
Full-Scale Plenum Test Facility
Plenum inlet Flow measuring station 23"x 23" Duct Fan

5' 10' 10' 10'
4" x 14" Floor grills (typical)

10' 10' 10' 10' 5'
40'
4' Underfloor barrier
80'
Measurement point (typical)

24' 19' 14' 10'
Obstruction #1 Plan View
Removable floor panels (2) Obstruction #2
Raised Floor
Concrete Slab
Section View
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August 8, 2006
Plenum Schematic Cross-Section
Results
Airflow delivery is very uniform from an 8-inch pressurized underfloor plenum over a full range of supply volumes (0.5-1.5 cfm/ft2), even at a distance of 80 feet from the plenum inlet.
Plenum Schematic Cross-Section Finish Floor Level
1-inch Floor Panel
1" 7" 2" 2"
2"
2"
Concrete Slab
Polystyrene Blocks
3"
2"
Uniformity (less than 10% variation) is preserved for solid obstructions with only 1.5 inches of clear space.
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Air Flow Ratio: 8-inch plenum
Publication
How Low Can You Go? Air Flow Performance of Low-Height Underfloor Plenums
F. Bauman, P. Pecora, and T. Webster Center for the Built Environment University of California Berkeley, California October 1999
130%
1.5 cfm/sf
120%
1.0 cfm/sf 0.5 cfm/sf
Delivered Air Flow Ratio (Measured flow/Uniform flow)
110%
100%
90%
80%
PDF available from: www.cbe.berkeley.edu/underfloorair
70% 0 10 20 30 40 50 60 70 80
Distance from Fan Inlet (ft)
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Plenum air leakage
Plenum air leakage
Category 1 Construction quality leakage

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Category 2 Floor leakage

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Smoke Test
August 8, 2006
Air leakage between Floor Panels
Air Leakage Test Setup
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Carpet Tile Configurations
Air Leakage between Floor Panels

Carpet Tile Configurations
1 0.9
Air Leakage (cfm/ft )
0.8 0.7 0.6 0.5 0.4 0.3 0.2 0.1 0 0 0.01 0.02 0.03 0.04 0.05 0.06 0.07 0.08 0.09 0.1 Bare panels Aligned carpet Offset carpet
Aligned
Offset
Pressure (in. w.c.)

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Thermal Performance Issues Pressurized Plenums

Objective deliver air at the desired temperature using a minimum amount of energy
Plenum inlet conditions
Supply air temperature Inlet velocity and direction
Temperature variations in underfloor plenum
Temperature [F]
Thermal decay
Heat transfer coefficients (slab and panels) Velocity and residence time of air in plenum
Temperature profile in slab and floor panels

Temperature on underside of slab Thermal storage strategies (nighttime pre-cooling)
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August 8, 2006
Ongoing Research on Underfloor Plenums

Phase 2 Thermal Performance
CFD model of underfloor plenum
Effect of Plenum Inlet Conditions
a)
b) Diffusers
Diffusers
Full-scale experiments Validate model vs. test facility Study thermal performance (supply temperature variations and thermal storage control strategies)
Vanes Inlet Inlet
Plan view of plenum air flow patterns: (a) without inlet vanes, (b) with inlet vanes
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Plenum Air Temperature CFD Model
CFD model: Particle visualization
Focused jet
Temperature (F)
(F)
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Full-Scale Plenum Test Facility
Smoke Visualization
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August 8, 2006
Underfloor plenum guidelines

Airflow delivery and pressure distribution
Quite uniform across open pressurized plenum zone
Plenum guidelines: Thermal decay

Guidelines to reduce temperature gain
Avoid excessive inlet velocities (< 1,500 fpm) Spread out airflow pattern Consider perimeter inlet locations (shafts), if possible Consider use of CFD simulations In larger zones, use some ductwork in critical areas
Leakage
Account for leakage into occupied space in design airflow calculations Careful attention to construction quality and sealing of plenum Recommend leak test at end of construction (guidelines needed)
Thermal decay
50-65 ft (15-20 m) maximum to furthest diffuser Plenum inlet conditions can be important
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Plenum guidelines: Temperature rise in air highways
Horizontal and Vertical Distribution

Temperature Rise (F)
2.0 1.8 1.6 1.4 1.2 1.0 0.8 0.6 0.4 0.2 0.0 50
No slab insulation
With R-10 slab insulation
11:25 11:40
125 150
75
100
125
150 50
75
100
Length (ft)
500 FPM 800 FPM 1000 FPM 1200 FPM
Length (ft)
1500 FPM
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Plenum Distribution Criteria

General, uniform air distribution Relatively equal supply air temperature to each diffuser Relatively equal pressure in plenum
Horizontal Distribution Layout Example: Initial Plan Large amount of ductwork
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Horizontal Distribution Layout Example: Final plan employs multiple shafts to reduce ductwork in the floor
Shafts
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Air Highways
50 foot radius
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Air Highway Cross Section
Large Air Highway
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Air Highway Construction
Air Highway Goals

Lower costs
Less sheet metal Lower labor rates of floor installers
Lower pressure drop

Larger effective duct area
Reduced coordination and conflicts Leak-free
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Air Highway Limitations

Questionable actual cost savings Familiarity of construction by floor contractors, general contractor Code equivalence to a duct
Crossing corridors
Plenum Dividers
Sheet metal plenum dividers subdivide UF plenum Purpose:
Provide more interior control zones Reduce length of air travel to perimeter UFTs
Reduced temperature degradation
The need for
Construction coordination
Not complete until floor tiles installed Damage by other trades
Allow off-hour isolation

Meet Title 24 25000 ft2 isolation area limitation
Limited pressure capability Leakage!!!!
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Plenum Dividers
Maximum 25000 ft2 area per zone
Recommendations
Use as little underfloor ductwork as possible
Minimize cost Minimize conflicts 50 feet from discharge to last outlet seems to be the consensus (more research being done)
Plenum Dividers
Use many vertical shafts to try to eliminate horizontal ductwork

Cost of fire/smoke dampers offset by eliminated ductwork Reduced velocity leaving shaft, reduces noise
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August 8, 2006
Demo of McCoy UFAD Showroom 11:40 - 12:00
Lunch 12:00 - 1:00
Does UFAD Require More Air?

Assuming complete mixing:
Load Calculations, Energy 1:00 - 1:45
Overhead:
Supply Temp: Room Setpoint: Space Heat Load: 55 F 75 F 17,297 Btu/hr
Underfloor:
Supply Temp: Room Setpoint: Space Heat Load: 63 F 75 F 17,297 Btu/hr
CFM = 17,297 Btu/hr = 786 CFM 1.1 Btu/hr-cfm-F x (75F-55F)
CFM = 17,291 Btu/hr = 1,335 CFM 1.1 Btu/hr-cfm-F x (75F-63F)
Answer: No! The assumption of complete mixing is incorrect!

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Overhead Air Distribution System
Mixing system tries to maintain uniform temperature and ventilation conditions throughout space
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Increased mixing up to throw height (TH) Diffuser throw below stratification height (SH)
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Heat Transfer in UFAD Systems
Energy Flows in Stratified UFAD System

Background
In a conventional building using an overhead well-mixed system, 100% of the space heat gains are removed by warm return air leaving the room at ceiling level (heat extraction).
Question
How is heat removed from a stratified room in a multi-story building with UFAD?
Approach
Assumption of perfect mixing is no longer valid Simplified first-law (energy balance) model
Publication
Heat Transfer Pathways in UFAD Systems F. Bauman, H. Jin, and T. Webster ASHRAE Transactions, Vol. 112, Part 2, 2006.
139
140
Cooling Operation of Overhead System
Simplified Model Heat Transfer Pathways

Slab-supply plenum conduction/convection Slab 78F Return Plenum Ceiling-slab radiation Tceiling Room Raised Floor Panels Treturn Treturn Return-slab convection
Return-ceiling convection
Extraction 100% Heat gain into space 100%
Ceiling-floor radiation Troom, near floor = 72F
Tcarpet Supply Plenum Slab Return Plenum Tplenum
Floor-room convection Diffuser discharge = 65F Floor-supply plenum conduction/convection Slab-supply plenum conduction/convection
0.6 cfm/ft2
Treturn
141
142
Predicted Distribution of Room Cooling Load
Distribution of Room Cooling Load

Impact of room airflow rate
100 % of Total Room Cooling Load 90 80 70 60 50 40 30 20 10 0
45 40 35 30 W/m 25 20 15 10 5 0
2
78F Heat gain into space 100%
Through slab 29%
Return air extraction 57%
72F
Through floor 14% 65F
0.6 0.6 2 cfm/ft
0.8 0.8 2 cfm/ft
1.0
cfm/ft2 1.0
Total into plenum 43%
Heat Transfer Through Floor into Plenum Heat Transfer Through Slab into Plenum Return Air Extraction Rate
143 144
Assumptions: Room cooling load = 4.3 W/ft2, Airflow = 0.6 cfm/ft2, SAT = 65F
Fred Bauman, CBE
24
August 8, 2006
EnergyPlus Modeling
Considering Radiation is KEY to making sense out of heat flows in UFAD systems (and all systems). Internal Loads Example (3.6 W/ft2) Tsupply = 56 Tplenum = 63 Troom = 75 Treturn = 76 System T = 76-56 = 20 Room T = 75-63 = 13
180 29.1 24.4 160 24.3
Conclusions Heat transfer pathways

Heat transfer into underfloor plenums represents a significant percentage (at least 1/3) of the room cooling load
76
140 24.2 23.9
24.3
23.8
75
120
100
Troom=13 75
23.8 23.6
80
Tsystem=20
Increased airflow will decrease both the plenum temperature gain and room air stratification, although at the expense of higher fan energy Depending on climate, different plenum operating strategies may be considered (EnergyPlus)
60
40
63
20 13.4
17.4 18.8 17.4 17.8 16.2
22.5
Mild, no humidity control increase airflow to allow higher plenum inlet temperature (maximize economizer) Humid reduce airflow to maximize fan energy savings, since no economizer potential
146
56
0
10
15
20
25
30
145
Load Calculation/Energy Software Tools

Common load/energy calculation programs
Trane Trace 700/Load 700 Carrier HAP Elite Wrightsoft RSC DOE2.1, 2.2
Load Calcs: What to do?!?

Designers need to understand the physics of these systems Cooling airflow design tool under development Must design systems that can react to dynamic load conditions
VAV system operation important Resets seem to be very helpful
No Underfloor Model in any of them!

For load calculations, air volumes seem to work out to be the same as overhead calculations (so far)
New version of EnergyPlus/UFAD scheduled for release in summer 2006

147
Systems must be commissioned to make sure they work
148
Cooling airflow design calculations

Overhead System
Sample airflow calculation (w/ complete mixing)
CFM =
Overhead
Supply Temp: Room Setpoint:
Q 1.1 ( Btu / hr cfm F ) T

UFAD
55F 75F 17,297 Btu/hr Supply Temp: Room Setpoint: Space Heat Load: 65F 75F 17,297 Btu/hr
Q = (1.1
Where:
Q= CFM = T =
Btu ) CFM T hr cfm F
total heat gains to room (Btu/hr) total room airflow (ft3/min) temperature difference between the room setpoint temperature and the supply air temperature (F)
Space Heat Load:
CFM =
17,297 Btu / hr 1.1 ( Btu / hr cfm F ) (75 F 55 F )

= 786 CFM
CFM =
= 1,572 CFM (double)
Assumes complete mixing

149
Assumption of complete mixing is incorrect!

150
Fred Bauman, CBE
25
August 8, 2006
Room air stratification
Sample airflow calculation (w/ stratification)
CFM =
Overhead
Supply Temp: Room Setpoint: Space Heat Load:

UFAD
55F 75F 17,297 Btu/hr
Supply Temp: Room Setpoint: Space Heat Load: 65F 79F 17,297 Btu/hr
CFM =
CFM =

CFM (43% higher)
= 786 CFM
= 1,123
Assumption of stratification alone is not enough!

151 152
Heat transfer into underfloor plenum

Predicted distribution of room cooling load
Sample airflow calculation (w/ plenum heat gain)
CFM =

UFAD
55F 75F 17,297 Btu/hr
Supply Temp: Room Setpoint: Space Heat Load: 65F 79F 0.7(17,297 Btu/hr) = 12,108 Btu/hr
Heat gain into space 100%
Through slab 20-25%
Return air extraction 60-70%
Overhead (OH)
Supply Temp: Room Setpoint:
Through floor 10-15% 65F
Space Heat Load:
17,297 Btu / hr CFM = 1.1 ( Btu / hr cfm F ) (75 F 55 F )

= 786 CFM
CFM =

CFM
Total into plenum = 30-40%, depending on airflow rate
= 786
Estimated airflow is the same for OH and UFAD!

153 154
Assumptions: Room cooling load = 4.3 W/ft2, Airflow = 0.6-1.0 cfm/ft2, SAT = 65F
Simple design tool concept

Modify existing well-mixed tool
UFAD: Good Energy Performance

Cooling Energy
Free Cooling Mechanical Cooling
Qmod CFM = 1.1 ( Btu / hr cfm F ) Tmod

Qmod is the total room cooling load reduced by the heat gain to the underfloor plenum. Tmod is equal to Treturn Tsupply, accounting for stratification. User could specify target T in the occupied zone. Design tool could also estimate average temperature gain in the underfloor plenum, and therefore the required plenum inlet temperature.
Fan Energy
Air Pressures Air Volumes
Reheat Energy
Lower T Lower Air-Volumes
155
156
Fred Bauman, CBE
26
August 8, 2006
Energy Advantages in the San Francisco Area

San Francisco Outdoor Temperature Distribution (Dry Bulb temperatures between 8am and 8pm)
300
100% Economizer 2217 Hours
UFAD in Other Climates

HVAC Design Fundamentals
600 500 400 300 200 100 0
600 500 400 300 200 100 0 600 500 400 300 200 100 0
10 0 -2 5 -2 0 -1 5 -1 0 10 15 20 25 30 35 40 45 50 55 60 65 70 75 80 85 90 95 -5 0 5 10 0 -2 5 -2 0 -1 5 -1 0 10 15 20 25 30 35 40 45 50 55 60 65 70 75 80 85 90 95 -5 0 5
Minneapolis
250
200
San Francisco
Hours
150
100
50
Houston
83
87
91
93
79
81
85
33
37
39
41
43
45
47
49
53
55
57
59
61
63
65
67
69
71
73
75
51
Outdoor Dry Bulb Temperature [F]
77
89
157
95
Dehumidification
Chilled water supply temperature is determined by the lowest supply-air temperature needed. If dehumidification is needed, this is likely to be 55oF or lower. Affects both mechanical and free cooling.
Return air bypass for humidity control
52oF
40oF
exhaust outlet
vfd
return air plenum bypass air

P
exhaust fan return air

H 07 08 09 T 10 11 12 P T 13 14
return air
15
16
17
18 19 20
55oF
outside air intake
N.O.
N.O.
plenum fan
vfd
mixed air plenum

N.C. T P 24 T
55oF
21
22
23
25
26
cooling coil
27 P
supply air
159
Mechanical Cooling Energy Savings

Chiller energy decreases as the chilled water supply temperature increases the compressor does less work
Mixing OH and UFAD Systems

Chilled water supply temperature is determined by the lowest supply-air temperature needed If standard OH systems are used, this is likely to be 55oF. Affects both mechanical and free cooling.
161
62oF
50oF
52oF
40oF
65oF
65oF
65oF
55oF
Fred Bauman, CBE
27
10 0
-2 5
-2 0
-1 5
-1 0
10
15
20
25
30
35
40
45
50
55
60
65
70
75
80
85
90
95
-5
158
160
162
August 8, 2006
Reheat Energy
Structural Slab Thermal Storage

Building physics and anecdotal evidence suggest there is a strong coupling of plenum air and slab. No validated mathematical models exist that can be used in design. CBE, CEC, UCSD, and DOE working on it (EIEIO).
Item Heating Load System Supply Air Temp Room Heating Setpoint Room Supply Air Temp Supply Air Flow Reheat
Units [Btu/h] [F] [F] [F] [CFM] [Btu/h]
Symbol / Equation Qh Tsys Tset Tsupply Qh / (1.1 x (Tsupply-Tset)) CFM x 1.1 x (Tset - Tsys)
Examples OH UFAD 10,000 55 70 90 455 7,500 10,000 63 70 110 227 1,750 23%
163
164
Reduced Fan Power

Underfloor plenum is the primary air distribution route UFAD systems use less ductwork than OH systems Primary fan pressure reduced 1/2 to 1 in. H2O, a reduction of about 25% Substantial energy savings on primary fan power possible, however this may be offset by fanpowered boxes or terminals used in perimeter zones
165
Fan Energy Savings: Air Volumes

Calculations and practice suggest that UFAD systems do not require more air than OH systems due to stratification But
There are many unknowns associated with load calcs It appears that built projects in case studies provide too much air
Further research will allow us to more accurately predict design airflow volumes
166
Plenum air leakage
Commissioning and Operations 1:45 2:15
Category 1 Construction quality leakage

168
Fred Bauman, CBE
28
August 8, 2006
Plenum air leakage
Plenum Leakage in Construction
Category 2 Floor leakage

169 170
171
172
Sealing Around Column in Construction

1. 2.
Plenum Air Leakage

Conduct leakage tests in underfloor plenum
Maintain design plenum pressure (e.g., 0.05 in. H2O) Blower panel with variable-speed test fan, or Use central AHU, but must measure airflow entering plenum Floor panels, electrical outlets, carpet tiles installed according to typical design specifications
1. 2.
Test #1 Total leakage
Seal all diffusers, or Estimate airflow through diffusers using manufacturers data Seal all openings and gaps on raised floor surface, or Estimate leakage using manufacturers data Subtract Test #2 result from Test #1 result, or Subtract Test #2 estimated airflow from Test #1 result
174
Test #2 Construction quality leakage

1. 2.
Floor leakage
1. 2.
173
Fred Bauman, CBE
29
August 8, 2006
Acceptable Leakage Rates

Construction quality leakage
Not to exceed 0.05 cfm/ft2 at 0.05 in H2O (e.g., 1,000 cfm for a 20,000 ft2 floor plate at 1 cfm/ft2) Is this a reasonable target?
Airflow and Room Air Stratification

No cooling airflow design tool yet available Systems are commonly oversized, often as a result of overestimation of design loads Conduct measurements of vertical temperature profile during fully loaded conditions
Use stratification measurement tree consisting of string or pole with several temperature sensors at regular intervals
Floor leakage
Not to exceed 0.10 at 0.05 in H2O (e.g., 17% leakage for an interior zone with 0.6 cfm/ft2 design airflow) cfm/ft2
Typical or simulated loads must be present to determine stratification performance Prior to measurements, operate building long enough (up to one week) to ensure thermal mass of structural slab is in equilibrium Preferred time for testing would be 3-6 months after occupancy
Consider testing a full-scale mock-up prior to construction. Apply corrections and sealing methods to remaining underfloor plenums and test again.
175
If stratification in the occupied zone (up to 6 ft) is not at least 3F, further adjustments should be made
176
Adjusting -Tuning Up- Stratification

(at peak load)
Adjusting Thermostat Setpoint

Height 1
Ceiling
Parameters to adjust
Airflow quantity Plenum pressure max setpoint # of diffusers Tstat setpoint Supply air temperature
Setting 1
Setting 2
Thermostat (48 in.)
Average for Setting 2

Ankle (4 in.)
Goal for adjusted stratification profile

T ~ 3-4F in occupied zone Equivalent comfort (same average temperature in the occupied zone)
Average for Setting 1
74F ~ 72 - 73F
Temperature
Adjust set point to achieve desired occupied zone average temperature (may increase gradient also)
177 178

(at peak load)

(at peak load)
Height
1
Ceiling
2 3
Height
1
Ceiling
Head (67 in.) Tstat (48 in.) Occupied zone
Head (67 in.) Tstat (48 in.) Occupied zone
Ankle (4 in.)
Tstat3 Tstat1 = Tstat2 Toz2,avg Toz1,avg = Toz3,avg
Ankle (4 in.)
Temperature
Toz ~ 1F Toz ~ 3-4F 179
Temperature
180
Fred Bauman, CBE
30
August 8, 2006
Other Considerations
Close coordination between designers, contractors, commissioning agents, and building operators Building operators must be properly trained on UFAD design and operation
Raise TStat setpoints to avoid overcooling (interior zones) Avoid overriding higher airflows into open plenum impacts the entire plenum zone If plenum air temperature is too high, corrections may be needed
Post-Occupancy Evaluations 2:15 2:30
Account for temperature gain to plenum supply air, particularly in key areas
Perimeter zones Conference rooms
BMS should allow easy retrieval and review of archived trend logs to evaluate system performance
181
CBE occupant satisfaction survey
Survey implementation
CBEs occupant satisfaction survey offers a systematic, cost-effective way of measuring how satisfied occupants are with their workplace environments.
Survey notification via email Occupants respond to web-based survey
Data sent to SQL server database Results reported online
183
184
Satisfaction with indoor air quality

Occupant survey results How satisfied are you with the air quality in your workspace (i.e. stuffy/stale air, cleanliness, odors)?
Satisfaction with thermal comfort

Occupant survey results
How satisfied are you with the temperature in your workspace?
-3
-3
+0.88 mean satisfaction 7 UFAD bldgs, 1,344 responses +0.23 mean satisfaction 152 overhead bldgs, 25,749 responses
+0.23 mean satisfaction 7 UFAD bldgs, 1,344 responses -0.21 mean satisfaction 152 overhead bldgs, 25,749 responses
Reference: www.cbesurvey.org
185
186
Fred Bauman, CBE
31

Satisfaction with lighting
August 8, 2006
Satisfaction with acoustic quality

How satisfied are you with the amount of light in your workspace?
How satisfied are you with the noise level in your workspace?
-3
-3
-0.16 mean satisfaction 7 UFAD bldgs, 1,344 responses +0.18 mean satisfaction 152 overhead bldgs, 25,749 responses
187
188
Satisfaction with cleanliness

CBE UFAD project database

www.cbe.berkeley.edu/underfloorair/casestudies.htm ~300 projects in North America
How satisfied are you with the general cleanliness of the overall building?
Web-based questionnaire collecting key building characteristics ~32 buildings under active study; 13 have completed operations section of questionnaire
-3
189 190
UFAD building operations questionnaire

Completed by facility managers
Based on your knowledge of how the UFAD system has been operating and your experience in other non-UFAD buildings, how much better or worse is this building in comparison to conventional buildings with respect to:
Much better Much worse
3 0 -3
UFAD building operations questionnaire

Completed by facility managers
Based on your experience with this building, indicate how serious of a problem the following have been:
Serious problem
3 0 -3
No problem
Operations issue
N 13 13 13 13 13
Mean response 0.92 0.67 0.62 0.54 0.15

191
Operations issue Moisture, mold, related problems Temp. stratification in occupied spaces Dust and dirt in plenum Air leakage from panel joints Plenum airflow and thermal decay Air leakage from construction joints
N 13 13 13 13 13 13
Mean response 2.08 1.67 1.25 0.92 0.17 -0.17

192
Making changes to tenant space Energy use Overall performance of UFAD system Hot and cold complaints Effort and cost of maintenance
Fred Bauman, CBE
32
August 8, 2006
Cost considerations UFAD vs. overhead
How to Decide to Go with UFAD? 2:30 2:45
Accurate first and life-cycle cost estimates are crucial early in design process Added first cost of raised floor system can be offset (in part) by reduction in ductwork and electrical/ telecomm installation costs Recent projects have demonstrated that first costs for UFAD can be very comparable to overhead systems
Range from $1.00-1.50/ft2 reduction to $4.00-6.00/ft2 premium
Well-recognized that raised floor systems reduce life-cycle costs associated with churn As more designers become familiar with UFAD and more manufacturers enter the market, costs will come down further
194
Relative costs
$250
Ongoing CBE UFAD Cost Analysis Project

Objective: Develop comprehensive first and life-cycle cost model for UFAD systems Funded by U.S. GSA Began summer 2002, ~$450K budget
Office Building Cost per Square Foot
$200
$150
A 1% Savings in Productivity ~1 year payback

$100
Project status
First cost model complete Development of life-cycle cost model underway UFAD cost model and total cost analysis complete by Fall 2006
$50
$-
Cost of Labor
Cost of Energy
Incremental Cost of UFAD
195
196
Approach - Affected first cost elements

The model evaluates each affected element and computes the UFAD to overhead (OH) system cost difference
Access Floor: Installation of access floors & carpets Faade & structure: Allowance for reducing floor-to-floor height HVAC: Cooling and heating loads calculation for sizing and pricing tenant area HVAC costs Electrical: Power distribution and voice and data differences Raised Core: Raised slab in core (non-UFAD) area Ceiling Treatments: Ceiling cavity paint, lighting, acoustical treatment, fireproofing steel beams, and sprinklers Furniture: Difference between system-powered and conventional furniture
Comparison of electrical first costs

CBE first cost model
$16 Electrical cost, $/Gsf $14 $12 $10 $8 $6 $4 $2
$2.09 $2.72 $0.38 $0.76 $1.91
$1.83
-$2.27
$1.78
-$1.45
$1.83
-$2.13
$1.78
-$1.23 -$3.00
$1.83 $1.78
$0 -$2 Cost differential, $/Gsf -$4 -$6 -$8 Workstation - Labor

Workstation - Material -$10 V&D - Labor -$12
$10.06 $6.80 $10.06
$6.80
$10.06
$6.80
-$14 -$16 -$18 -$20

or ab
$0.41
V&D - Material Electrical - Labor Electrical - Material
$0
,p er ow
e l w w F ow po po R ,p l, nd, ar on na re no ul ,n r, tio we al od a n n ul po ve io :M o nod D nt on :P no ve FA :M H :C r, U D O on D la FA :C FA du U D U o M FA : U D FA U rp we e ol
ed
ed er ow -p
ed er
ed er
d re
197
198
Fred Bauman, CBE
33
August 8, 2006
When to Use Underfloor Air?

Office buildings -- all are possible but best for:
Open office plans Owner Occupied Buildings Dry, Mild Climates
Energy benefits best in mild climates without high humidity levels little or no chiller plant savings in humid climates

Spec Office Buildings not as common
Growing number of successful projects in recent years Multiple tenants with diverse loads and full height walls may be a problem depending on system design If first costs are higher than conventional systems, it is important to developer for UFAD building to command higher rents
199
200

Churches, Theaters, Auditoriums
True displacement if supplied under seats at low velocity
Trading Floors Tall spaces

Banks
Wrap-Up, Conclusions 2:45 3:00
In recent years, increased number of projects

Libraries Schools Court Houses Institutional
201
Last Thoughts
Significant energy savings possible
Depends strongly on climate Depends on designing and operating the systems correctly
Underfloor Air Technology Website

www.cbe.berkeley.edu/underfloorair Objective:
Develop and maintain website dedicated to providing a complete and unbiased description of underfloor air distribution technology
More Research Needed

Load calcs Stratification Underfloor plenum
Audience:
Energy Simulation will be Key

Slab, plenum, stratification
- engineers and architects - building owners - developers - CBE partners and clients - manufacturers and reps - facility managers - corporate real estate - researchers
203
204
Fred Bauman, CBE
34
August 8, 2006
Underfloor Air Technology Website

Key Features:
- simple graphical tools highlighting basic concepts - technical overviews explaining process, benefits and limitations - detailed summaries of research on UFAD and related technologies - guidelines for applying the technology - case studies of existing systems
Current Research by CBE

Design tools
Whole-building energy simulation program (EnergyPlus): Ongoing 3-year project sponsored by California Energy Commission (CEC), U.S. DOE, CBE, and York (completion in summer 2006) Cooling airflow design tool: Ongoing project sponsored by CEC and CBE (completion in Nov. 2006)
Field Studies -- Whole-building performance data

Ongoing field study of Calif. State office building sponsored by Calif. State Dept. of General Services (completion in Dec. 2006)
Cost analysis tool

Ongoing 4-year project sponsored by U.S. GSA to develop first and life-cycle cost model comparing UFAD with OH systems (completion in Fall 2006)
205 206
What is EnergyPlus?
All-new fully integrated building & HVAC energy simulation program Based on best features of BLAST and DOE-2 plus new capabilities Designed for easy expansion Public: open to all developers Free download of latest version of EnergyPlus at www.energyplus.gov
Current EnergyPlus model

Overhead system Ceiling plenum
Conditioned space
Well-mixed, uniform temperature in conditioned space
Temperature
207
208
New EnergyPlus UFAD model
Recent Publications
"New Design and Operating Guidelines and Tools for UFAD Systems." HPAC Engineering Webcast Series -- March 1, 2006; www.hpac.com.
Ceiling plenum
"Heat Transfer Pathways in Underfloor Air Distribution (UFAD) Systems, F. Bauman, H. Jin, and T. Webster. ASHRAE Transactions, Vol. 112, Part 2. "Testing and Modeling of Underfloor Air Supply Plenums. H. Jin, F. Bauman, and T. Webster. ASHRAE Transactions, Vol. 112, Part 2.
SAT
Upper, stratified zone

Stratification height
Lower, occupied zone h

Underfloor plenum
"Design Guidelines for Stratification in Underfloor Air Distribution (UFAD) Systems." T. Webster and F. Bauman. HPAC Engineering, June. http://hpac.texterity.com/hpac/200606/?pg=8
Temperature
Room air stratification modeled as two zones separated at stratification height, h
"Design Guidelines for Underfloor Air Supply Plenums." F. Bauman, T. Webster, and H. Jin. HPAC Engineering, July. http://hpac.texterity.com/hpac/200607/?pg=30
209 210
Fred Bauman, CBE
35
August 8, 2006
Conclusions
Large and growing interest in underfloor air distribution More information and experience is needed comparing UFAD to conventional overhead systems Developments are underway addressing technology needs
Research on key fundamental issues New and revised design guidelines and tools Commissioning, operating, and tune-up (recommissioning) guidelines Improved training of construction and operations personnel Greater familiarity and understanding within building industry
211
Questions?
fbauman@berkeley.edu CBE website www.cbe.berkeley.edu Underfloor air technology website www.cbe.berkeley.edu/underfloorair CBE occupant survey website www.cbesurvey.org
Fred Bauman
Fred Bauman, CBE
36

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Designing UFAD Systems: Updated Guidelines McCoy UFAD Workshop

Acknowledgments Designing Underfloor Air Distribution (UFAD) Systems:

Introduction Diffusers and Stratification Comfort and IAQ

Introduction 8:15 8:45

10:30-11:25 11:25-11:40 11:40-12:00

1:00-1:45 1:45-2:15 2:15-2:30 2:30-2:45 2:45-3:00

CBE Industry Partners

Fred Bauman, CBE

Designing UFAD Systems: Updated Guidelines McCoy UFAD Workshop

CBE UFAD Research

Underfloor air distribution system

Potential UFAD Benefits

Underfloor vs. Conventional Air Distribution System Design Issues

Current Barriers to UFAD Technology

Problems with applicable standards and codes

Fred Bauman, CBE

Designing UFAD Systems: Updated Guidelines McCoy UFAD Workshop

Integrated Service Plenum

Underfloor Air & Power

Underfloor HVAC Concept

ASHRAE Research Project RP-1064: UFAD Design Guide

Fred Bauman, CBE

Designing UFAD Systems: Updated Guidelines McCoy UFAD Workshop

ASHRAE UFAD Design Guide

Development of UFAD Design Guide

9. 10. 11. 12. 13. 14. 15. 16. 17.

Current status of UFAD technology

How Many UFAD Projects are Installed?

UFAD market penetration

UFAD Market Drivers

1999 2002 2005

10% 15% 45%

Fred Bauman, CBE

Designing UFAD Systems: Updated Guidelines McCoy UFAD Workshop

Diffusers and Stratification 8:45 9:45

Swirl, horizontal discharge Linear bar grille

Personal control of swirl diffuser

Swirl floor diffuser

Personal control of swirl diffuser

Individual Plenum Box

Fred Bauman, CBE

Designing UFAD Systems: Updated Guidelines McCoy UFAD Workshop

One diffuser per workstation

Variable Air Volume Performance

New VAV Diffuser with Time Modulation

CONSISTANT VELOCITY - VARIABLE VOLUME

Fred Bauman, CBE

Designing UFAD Systems: Updated Guidelines McCoy UFAD Workshop

Digital Pulse Width Modulation

Bar Grilles in Perimeter

New Linear Grilles for Perimeter

Underfloor variable-speed fan-coil

Fan Coil w/ ECM motor Flex Duct

Variable Speed Fan-Coil Control

130F Discharge Air Temperature Setpoint

Minimum Airflow (due to pressurized plenum)

Fred Bauman, CBE

Designing UFAD Systems: Updated Guidelines McCoy UFAD Workshop

Underfloor variable-speed fan-coil

Perimeter solution variable-area diffuser

Perimeter solution variable-area diffuser

Task/Ambient Conditioning Systems

Diffuser Code Compliance