Case Study
Teviotdale Leisure Centre and Vital Energi
RPJ Energy Solutions Ltd (RPJ) were contracted by Vital Energi Utilities Ltd to strip out the existing AHU and replace with an AHU which consists of direct drive fans, as well as to implement a new maintenance plan, tailored to suit the requirement of the new system, as well as the client.
Objective
RPJ’s objective, as part of the overall project, was to reduce energy consumption in relation to the swimming pool Air Handling Unit (AHU).
It was determined that due to the age, configuration and condition of the existing unit, refurbishment of the AHU would not enable the client to meet the desired energy reductions, and so replacement with an upgraded system was the best solution.
Scope of Works
The initial works involved the full strip-out of the incumbent AHU and ductwork connections as well as redundant pipework serving the old swimming pool AHU frost coil. The existing AHU control accessories and fresh air louvre were also removed.
RPJ was tasked with the manufacture, supply and install of a new AHU serving the swimming pool, complete with integrated controls and new duct connections as well as aligning the new AHU controls with the existing BMS.
To ensure the safe installation of the new AHUs, floor beams were installed as the existing foundations would not be suitable with respect to dimensions, and these provided a safe mounting for the AHU to be positioned and secured.
Some parts of the existing system were redeemable and were therefore refurbished and painted for additional protection.
Once the system was in place, RPJ carried out the commissioning of the new AHU and set to work.
Prior to strip-out, RPJ measured both energy consumption and air volume on the existing AHU. Upon completion, the new AHU was commissioned to provide an increased air volume, however the new AHU was also measured at the same air volume that the old system was providing prior to the works being undertaken. RPJ also re-measured the energy consumption to verify the energy savings achieved.
The following table demonstrates the results achieved.
Due to the limited performance of the existing system, we were unable to obtain all pre-work measurements at each inverter percentage of use, but the table above clearly demonstrates the achieved reductions and the savings applicable to the works carried out.
It was not possible to obtain the extract system pre-work measurements but applying the same theory and logic from the verified supply measurements, the table above demonstrates the achieved reductions and the savings applicable to the works carried out.
Challenges & Results
As we were increasing the AHU size from the existing unit size, we experienced some issues with available space, transporting the new unit into the building and into position for assembling. We overcame such issues by having a “lift and shift” partner and a representative from the manufacturer onsite to consult, agree and implement a safe and effective method, resulting in a successful install.
During initial project discussions, a concern was raised by the client that if the pool area temperatures were not maintained, this would most likely create high levels of condensation. To maintain the pool area temperature, ensuring there were no condensation issues, RPJ installed temporary ventilation to the site.
Due to the Covid-19 UK wide lockdown, RPJ implemented safe operating procedures, not only to comply with UK guidance, but to ensure the health and well-being of our operatives and any external parties entering the site.
Given the unprecedented challenges of Covid-19, RPJ completed the works timeously and with all operatives remaining fit and well.
Existing AHU & Frame during strip out.
Existing louvre treated & painted to the left, with the newly supplied & installed louvre to the right.
AHU area after strip out.
Delivery of the new AHU arriving at site.
