Energy Efficiency
Tate's Building Technology Platform® provides energy cost savings through the effective utilization of thermal displacement. Save 20% of your HVAC energy cost using underfloor air. How? Significant fan energy savings, more hours of economizer operation, and reduced outside air option due to better ventilation effectiveness.
Starting at the Bottom: Raised Access Flooring
Owner: SAP Americas
The McMorrow Sustainable Facilities Management Report, February 2011
Between the raised access flooring and other energy-efficient features (including geothermal wells for heating and ice chillers and evaporation cooling towers), the new building has its predecessor beat. "Both buildings have exteriors that are about 80% glass," says Brian Barrett, Senior Project Manager, SAP Global Facilities, "which can increase energy costs. The old building uses approximately 2.5 kilowatts per square foot— the new one uses only 1 kilowatt per square foot."
Owner: SAP Americas
The McMorrow Sustainable Facilities Management Report, February 2011
Between the raised access flooring and other energy-efficient features (including geothermal wells for heating and ice chillers and evaporation cooling towers), the new building has its predecessor beat. "Both buildings have exteriors that are about 80% glass," says Brian Barrett, Senior Project Manager, SAP Global Facilities, "which can increase energy costs. The old building uses approximately 2.5 kilowatts per square foot— the new one uses only 1 kilowatt per square foot."
Mechanical & HVAC Design Goes Underfloor
Green Building Focus
The RFP specified that the design had to meet Energy Policy Act 2005, which involves saving 30% in overall building energy use compared to the baseline building specified in ASHRAE Standard 90.1-2004, and achieve a U.S. Green Building Council LEED Silver rating. These requirements had a major impact on the building design in general and particularly the HVAC design. The design team decided that it was important to have an air distribution system that contributed to these goals. While not the most important energy strategies to achieve the 30% savings, the UFAD system does contribute....
Green Building Focus
The RFP specified that the design had to meet Energy Policy Act 2005, which involves saving 30% in overall building energy use compared to the baseline building specified in ASHRAE Standard 90.1-2004, and achieve a U.S. Green Building Council LEED Silver rating. These requirements had a major impact on the building design in general and particularly the HVAC design. The design team decided that it was important to have an air distribution system that contributed to these goals. While not the most important energy strategies to achieve the 30% savings, the UFAD system does contribute....
HOK Designs NASA's greenest building at Johnson Space Center
Ultimate Clear Lake, February 2011
HOK's design for NASA's Building 20 at Johnson Space Center in Houston, a three-story 83,000-square-foot contemporary office facility, has achieved LEED — Leadership in Energy and Environmental Design - Platinum certification. The integrated architectural and design strategies include a highly efficient building envelope, an underfloor air distribution system, a total energy recovery wheel and a solar hot water harvesting system on the roof that accounts for 18 percent of the building's domestic hot water consumption. Building 20 is designed to be 57 percent more energy efficient than a typical office building and serves as a public showcase for high-performance, environmentally sound building design and construction at the Johnson Space Center.
Ultimate Clear Lake, February 2011
HOK's design for NASA's Building 20 at Johnson Space Center in Houston, a three-story 83,000-square-foot contemporary office facility, has achieved LEED — Leadership in Energy and Environmental Design - Platinum certification. The integrated architectural and design strategies include a highly efficient building envelope, an underfloor air distribution system, a total energy recovery wheel and a solar hot water harvesting system on the roof that accounts for 18 percent of the building's domestic hot water consumption. Building 20 is designed to be 57 percent more energy efficient than a typical office building and serves as a public showcase for high-performance, environmentally sound building design and construction at the Johnson Space Center.
Innovative HVAC Elements to Consider
Jeffrey L. Heiken, facilitiesnetl.com
January 2011
The pressurized plenum of the underfloor space serves as a supply air distribution system. It is a low-static-pressure delivery system. The economic benefit of reducing fan static pressure requirements comes in fan energy savings. The model for this project showed a 13.4 percent decrease in fan energy use with the underfloor system.
Jeffrey L. Heiken, facilitiesnetl.com
January 2011
The pressurized plenum of the underfloor space serves as a supply air distribution system. It is a low-static-pressure delivery system. The economic benefit of reducing fan static pressure requirements comes in fan energy savings. The model for this project showed a 13.4 percent decrease in fan energy use with the underfloor system.
SAS Canada Celebrates Five Years in LEED-Certified Headquarters
Digital Journal, December 2010
Continuing its commitment to environmental sustainability, SAS Canada today celebrated the five-year anniversary of its eco-friendly head office. The SAS building uses underfloor air distribution, which saves considerable energy and adds enhanced comfort and air quality to the occupied spaces. Certified as LEED Silver in 2008, the headquarters continues to generate public recognition for its leadership in corporate sustainability practices.
Digital Journal, December 2010
Continuing its commitment to environmental sustainability, SAS Canada today celebrated the five-year anniversary of its eco-friendly head office. The SAS building uses underfloor air distribution, which saves considerable energy and adds enhanced comfort and air quality to the occupied spaces. Certified as LEED Silver in 2008, the headquarters continues to generate public recognition for its leadership in corporate sustainability practices.
A Higher Standard: The Christman Building
ED+C, June 2010
In addition to delivering anticipated utility savings of 25 percent, the underfloor air distribution system is providing 200 to 300 percent more ventilation to the breathing zone than required by ASHRAE Standard 62.1-2004. The system creates a better work environment for building occupants. The air is pressurized under the floor, delivered to people where they're sitting, and then passed overhead to return air ducts in the ceiling. "As a result, the energy-efficient system makes for a healthier environment in which occupants have the ability to adjust the temperature within their workspaces for greater comfort," says Jeff Fedewa, project manager at The Christman Company.
ED+C, June 2010
In addition to delivering anticipated utility savings of 25 percent, the underfloor air distribution system is providing 200 to 300 percent more ventilation to the breathing zone than required by ASHRAE Standard 62.1-2004. The system creates a better work environment for building occupants. The air is pressurized under the floor, delivered to people where they're sitting, and then passed overhead to return air ducts in the ceiling. "As a result, the energy-efficient system makes for a healthier environment in which occupants have the ability to adjust the temperature within their workspaces for greater comfort," says Jeff Fedewa, project manager at The Christman Company.
Banner Bank Building
Gary Christensen, Owner Christensen Corp.
The art-deco inspired building is the first LEED Platinum building in Idaho, earning 49 out of 62 possible LEED credits in the Core& Shell category. Worldwide, Banner Bank was the 16th Platinum building but the first speculative office building to achieve this level. It earned all ten of the “Optimizing Energy Performance” credits under the Energy and Atmosphere section of the LEED checklist, showing Core & Shell modeled energy savings of over 50%. The building’s Energy Use Index (EUI) is 37 kBTU / FT2·YR as compared to an average office building in Idaho which uses 89kBTU / FT2·YR. The reduction in energy use offsets approximately 721 tons of CO2 per year-the equivalent of removing 139 cars from the road per year.
Gary Christensen, Owner Christensen Corp.
The art-deco inspired building is the first LEED Platinum building in Idaho, earning 49 out of 62 possible LEED credits in the Core& Shell category. Worldwide, Banner Bank was the 16th Platinum building but the first speculative office building to achieve this level. It earned all ten of the “Optimizing Energy Performance” credits under the Energy and Atmosphere section of the LEED checklist, showing Core & Shell modeled energy savings of over 50%. The building’s Energy Use Index (EUI) is 37 kBTU / FT2·YR as compared to an average office building in Idaho which uses 89kBTU / FT2·YR. The reduction in energy use offsets approximately 721 tons of CO2 per year-the equivalent of removing 139 cars from the road per year.
Web Exclusive: Generating Enthusiasm for Green
VP & Technical Officer: Dale Holland, Dunham Associates
Architect: Russell Philstrom, Perkins + Will
ED+C, July 2009
The efficiency of the geothermal system is compounded by raised floors that allow air to be delivered by in-floor diffusers located throughout the building rather than through a traditional overhead forced-air system, which requires significantly more energy to operate. "We recommended underfloor displacement because it’s a very efficient way to get clean, cool air to people," Philstrom said. "It has huge energy savings because you’re not pulling air down to the user from an overhead system."
"Displacement ventilation mixes the supply air under the floor with room air about six inches above the floor," Holland said. "Then, the low-velocity, cool air rises over warm bodies and is displaced to air vents at ceiling level. In effect, natural convection instead of fan power drives the airflow and conserves energy in the process."
The benefits of this unique HVAC system begin with energy savings directly attributed to the way the system operates. “An underfloor displacement ventilation system is very energy efficient because it requires very little energy to move air under the floor,” Holland said. “Far less fan energy is required. And if we use displacement ventilation, we’re really only air-conditioning the occupied zone, which is the lower six feet of this high atrium building. So, we’re saving energy by not air-conditioning a 40-foot high space. You combine that with the efficiency you gain with geothermal technology and you begin to see how all of these strategies work together to achieve super energy savings.”
VP & Technical Officer: Dale Holland, Dunham Associates
Architect: Russell Philstrom, Perkins + Will
ED+C, July 2009
The efficiency of the geothermal system is compounded by raised floors that allow air to be delivered by in-floor diffusers located throughout the building rather than through a traditional overhead forced-air system, which requires significantly more energy to operate. "We recommended underfloor displacement because it’s a very efficient way to get clean, cool air to people," Philstrom said. "It has huge energy savings because you’re not pulling air down to the user from an overhead system."
"Displacement ventilation mixes the supply air under the floor with room air about six inches above the floor," Holland said. "Then, the low-velocity, cool air rises over warm bodies and is displaced to air vents at ceiling level. In effect, natural convection instead of fan power drives the airflow and conserves energy in the process."
The benefits of this unique HVAC system begin with energy savings directly attributed to the way the system operates. “An underfloor displacement ventilation system is very energy efficient because it requires very little energy to move air under the floor,” Holland said. “Far less fan energy is required. And if we use displacement ventilation, we’re really only air-conditioning the occupied zone, which is the lower six feet of this high atrium building. So, we’re saving energy by not air-conditioning a 40-foot high space. You combine that with the efficiency you gain with geothermal technology and you begin to see how all of these strategies work together to achieve super energy savings.”
California Department of Education
High Performance Buildings, Fall 2009
The California Department of Education Headquarters, built in 2002, raised the bar for sustainable building practices in California. It is the first state office building to incorporate an underfloor air-distribution system and is the state's first design-build office building. Sustainable practices used during construction are now part of the state's green building manual. The building has achieved and EPA Energy Star rating of 98 and scored above the benchmark in both air quality and person comfort in post occupancy surveys.
High Performance Buildings, Fall 2009
The California Department of Education Headquarters, built in 2002, raised the bar for sustainable building practices in California. It is the first state office building to incorporate an underfloor air-distribution system and is the state's first design-build office building. Sustainable practices used during construction are now part of the state's green building manual. The building has achieved and EPA Energy Star rating of 98 and scored above the benchmark in both air quality and person comfort in post occupancy surveys.
Climate Controlled
Property Owner: Manitoba Hydro
Canadian Architect, January 2010
Performing 66 percent better than Model National Energy guidelines suggest, Manitoba Hydro Place, a new state-of-the-art corporate headquarters in downtown Winnipeg, is setting new standards for commercial office buildings. Extending below the single storey of underground parking is the province's largest geothermal system with 280 boreholes, each one 125 metres deep. These tap the earth's natural energy storage for both heating and cooling purposes. Because of the raised floor ventilation provided at each floor, the bulk of heating and cooling radiates from exposed concrete slabs above.
Property Owner: Manitoba Hydro
Canadian Architect, January 2010
Performing 66 percent better than Model National Energy guidelines suggest, Manitoba Hydro Place, a new state-of-the-art corporate headquarters in downtown Winnipeg, is setting new standards for commercial office buildings. Extending below the single storey of underground parking is the province's largest geothermal system with 280 boreholes, each one 125 metres deep. These tap the earth's natural energy storage for both heating and cooling purposes. Because of the raised floor ventilation provided at each floor, the bulk of heating and cooling radiates from exposed concrete slabs above.
The Value of Good Design
Property Owner: Toledo-Lucas County Port Authority
Ashrae, 2010
The Owens Corning World Headquarters in Toledo, Ohio received LEED for Existing Buildings 2.0 Silver certification 10 years after it was constructed. While the cost of electricity has increased since the building opened, annual spending on building electricity dropped 25% from 1997 to 2008.
Property Owner: Toledo-Lucas County Port Authority
Ashrae, 2010
The Owens Corning World Headquarters in Toledo, Ohio received LEED for Existing Buildings 2.0 Silver certification 10 years after it was constructed. While the cost of electricity has increased since the building opened, annual spending on building electricity dropped 25% from 1997 to 2008.
A New Face for Seattle: A LEED-certified speculative development in seattle is both environmentally and economically sustainable
Developer: Vulcan Realty
GreenSource May 2009
This scheme (raised floor ventilation) has the virtue of being both flexible—each occupant controls the workspace airflow—and low-pressure, so that less fan energy is needed to circulate air through the plenum. Both factors help conserve energy.
Developer: Vulcan Realty
GreenSource May 2009
This scheme (raised floor ventilation) has the virtue of being both flexible—each occupant controls the workspace airflow—and low-pressure, so that less fan energy is needed to circulate air through the plenum. Both factors help conserve energy.
Visual Tour of a LEED Gold Office Building
Property Owner: Bick Group
CSE, April 2009
An underfloor air distribution system takes advantage of air's natural tendency to rise as it warms. Air distributed from beneath the floor is introduced at a lower velocity and higher temperature than overhead systems. As a result, it requires less fan horsepower to deliver the air and provides the opportunity for extended economizer operation, thereby reducing energy consumption and operating costs.
Property Owner: Bick Group
CSE, April 2009
An underfloor air distribution system takes advantage of air's natural tendency to rise as it warms. Air distributed from beneath the floor is introduced at a lower velocity and higher temperature than overhead systems. As a result, it requires less fan horsepower to deliver the air and provides the opportunity for extended economizer operation, thereby reducing energy consumption and operating costs.
Government Case Study: Process Driven
Today's Facility Manager, February 2009
TFM Managing Editor Anne Vazquez talks to the director of building operations, Joseph R. Campfield, about the new IRS facility in Kansas City, MO. Energy efficiency was a focus of the (IRS) campus design, and two major systems that Campfield uses to pursue this goal are a Web-based building automation system (BAS) for the entire facility and an underfloor air distribution (UFAD) system, which serves the Pennway Complex.
Today's Facility Manager, February 2009
TFM Managing Editor Anne Vazquez talks to the director of building operations, Joseph R. Campfield, about the new IRS facility in Kansas City, MO. Energy efficiency was a focus of the (IRS) campus design, and two major systems that Campfield uses to pursue this goal are a Web-based building automation system (BAS) for the entire facility and an underfloor air distribution (UFAD) system, which serves the Pennway Complex.
Case Study: Commitment to Energy Efficiency + Sustainability
ed+c, November 2008
Among the many innovations in the new building is an under-floor air distribution (UFAD) system. This efficient UFAD/HVAC system was a significant contributor to the building’s LEED certification and helped reduce energy costs. Before moving into the new building, annual electrical costs were more than $1 million. Despite rising energy costs since the building was commissioned, annual electrical costs today are less than $800,000.
ed+c, November 2008
Among the many innovations in the new building is an under-floor air distribution (UFAD) system. This efficient UFAD/HVAC system was a significant contributor to the building’s LEED certification and helped reduce energy costs. Before moving into the new building, annual electrical costs were more than $1 million. Despite rising energy costs since the building was commissioned, annual electrical costs today are less than $800,000.
High-Performance Building Systems: Mechanical, Electrical and Controls Systems
Building Design+Construction, September 2008
By utilizing the space under a raised access floor or in another designed plenum, building designers can employ diffusers that rapidly mix room air with supply air at low velocities. That air can then be introduced directly into the occupied zone. Consequently, the system is more efficient than conventional HVAC schemes, as it only has to cool the occupied zone.
Building Design+Construction, September 2008
By utilizing the space under a raised access floor or in another designed plenum, building designers can employ diffusers that rapidly mix room air with supply air at low velocities. That air can then be introduced directly into the occupied zone. Consequently, the system is more efficient than conventional HVAC schemes, as it only has to cool the occupied zone.
Going for LEED Platinum, Great River Energy
CSI, April 2008
Underfloor displacement ventilation provides a 30% increase in fresh air within the breathing zone and the air quality is higher, while still using energy 45% - 50% below the Minnesota Energy Code.
CSI, April 2008
Underfloor displacement ventilation provides a 30% increase in fresh air within the breathing zone and the air quality is higher, while still using energy 45% - 50% below the Minnesota Energy Code.
Sustainable Design Project Making Strides Against Global Warming
Interiors & Sources, January 2008
Responsible for nearly half the world's greenhouse gas emissions—20 percent more than transportation—the building industry is the primary contributor to global warming. To address this issue, the national design community has called for an immediate 50 percent energy reduction in all new buildings—and the call-to-action is working....One of the most innovative solutions is the hybrid HVAC system that includes both operable windows for natural ventilation and a raised floor system that can selectively deliver heated or cooled air.
Interiors & Sources, January 2008
Responsible for nearly half the world's greenhouse gas emissions—20 percent more than transportation—the building industry is the primary contributor to global warming. To address this issue, the national design community has called for an immediate 50 percent energy reduction in all new buildings—and the call-to-action is working....One of the most innovative solutions is the hybrid HVAC system that includes both operable windows for natural ventilation and a raised floor system that can selectively deliver heated or cooled air.
2007 Green Building Survey
Developer: CBRE
www.greensourceproducts.com 2007
"When asked what are the most important factors when choosing green buildings to buy or lease, corporate users most frequently cite energy efficiency (81%) followed by water savings (53%) and indoor environmental quality (50%)."
Developer: CBRE
www.greensourceproducts.com 2007
"When asked what are the most important factors when choosing green buildings to buy or lease, corporate users most frequently cite energy efficiency (81%) followed by water savings (53%) and indoor environmental quality (50%)."
Building Green Just Makes Economic Sense
Ottawa Business Journal, December 2007
The TELUS building is expected to be awarded silver status under the LEED system. Mr. Chmiel says in his written introduction to the building that it "incorporates several innovative strategies to conserve energy and resources." And he continues: "Throughout the building, heating, ventilating and air-conditioning distribution is provided under an 18-inch raised floor system. Conditioned air is supplied closer to where occupants sit and stand, rather than the traditional method of pushing the air from the ceiling down."
Ottawa Business Journal, December 2007
The TELUS building is expected to be awarded silver status under the LEED system. Mr. Chmiel says in his written introduction to the building that it "incorporates several innovative strategies to conserve energy and resources." And he continues: "Throughout the building, heating, ventilating and air-conditioning distribution is provided under an 18-inch raised floor system. Conditioned air is supplied closer to where occupants sit and stand, rather than the traditional method of pushing the air from the ceiling down."
New Green Building
Seacoastonline, November 2007
A wonderful green building has gone up in Saco: the Saco & Biddeford Savings Institution Operations Center. The U.S. Green Building Council has just given the Center a Silver Rating under their Leadership in Energy and Environment Design (LEED) rating system....Energy-efficient lighting, high-performance window glazing and an under-floor air system to achieve a 42 percent savings over traditional methods.
Seacoastonline, November 2007
A wonderful green building has gone up in Saco: the Saco & Biddeford Savings Institution Operations Center. The U.S. Green Building Council has just given the Center a Silver Rating under their Leadership in Energy and Environment Design (LEED) rating system....Energy-efficient lighting, high-performance window glazing and an under-floor air system to achieve a 42 percent savings over traditional methods.
Comfort, Sustainability & Energy Savings Using Moving Air
November 2007
This paper will show a very effective way to make a building more economical, ergonomic and sustainable by the use of moving air to provide comfort cooling.
November 2007
This paper will show a very effective way to make a building more economical, ergonomic and sustainable by the use of moving air to provide comfort cooling.
HVAC System Saves State Government $90,000 Annually
September 2007
To cut daytime energy use at the Lewis and Clark Building in Jefferson City, Missouri, the system generates chilled water at night and stores it in a cistern under the building for use during the day. The air handlers are part of an under-floor air distribution system that produces a floor-to-ceiling airflow.
September 2007
To cut daytime energy use at the Lewis and Clark Building in Jefferson City, Missouri, the system generates chilled water at night and stores it in a cistern under the building for use during the day. The air handlers are part of an under-floor air distribution system that produces a floor-to-ceiling airflow.
Aging Like A Fine Wine
Eco-Structure, March 2007
Marking a major milestone in California Gov. Arnold Schwarzenegger’s Green Building Initiative (www.green.ca.gov), the California Department of Education Building has become the first pre-existing, state-owned U.S. office building to achieve USGBC’s LEED Platinum rating for Existing Buildings.
Eco-Structure, March 2007
Marking a major milestone in California Gov. Arnold Schwarzenegger’s Green Building Initiative (www.green.ca.gov), the California Department of Education Building has become the first pre-existing, state-owned U.S. office building to achieve USGBC’s LEED Platinum rating for Existing Buildings.
HP's data center consolidation provides management insights
SearchDataCenter.com, August 2006
Hewlett-Packard Co. (HP) has a vision for the data center of the future, and it is using its own massive data center consolidation project as the proving ground for its ideas.....Despite the smaller footprint and higher server density for its new facilities, HP plans to stick with basic raised floor air cooling. According to Sharad Singhal, distinguished technologist at HP, delivering air flow properly will prevent HP from having to go with high-density cooling technologies.
SearchDataCenter.com, August 2006
Hewlett-Packard Co. (HP) has a vision for the data center of the future, and it is using its own massive data center consolidation project as the proving ground for its ideas.....Despite the smaller footprint and higher server density for its new facilities, HP plans to stick with basic raised floor air cooling. According to Sharad Singhal, distinguished technologist at HP, delivering air flow properly will prevent HP from having to go with high-density cooling technologies.
Building Green Always Made Sense....Now Its Beginning To Pay Off
San Francisco Chronicle, September 11, 2005
"Hobstetter points to the KMD-designed and recently completed San Luis Obispo County Government Center, which, he says, is 35 percent more efficient than a conventional building. The center has a raised floor design, similar to a computer room, that allows the concrete floors and ceilings to cool off at night, then keep the interior cooler during the day."
San Francisco Chronicle, September 11, 2005
"Hobstetter points to the KMD-designed and recently completed San Luis Obispo County Government Center, which, he says, is 35 percent more efficient than a conventional building. The center has a raised floor design, similar to a computer room, that allows the concrete floors and ceilings to cool off at night, then keep the interior cooler during the day."
Underfloor Air Distribution & Access Floors
Energy Design Resources, Design Brief
"Underfloor air distribution systems can be very energy-efficient, even at increased flow rates. Although underfloor systems generally operate at higher flow rates than conventional overhead systems, they typically consume less energy than a conventional overhead system due to a number of factors."
Energy Design Resources, Design Brief
"Underfloor air distribution systems can be very energy-efficient, even at increased flow rates. Although underfloor systems generally operate at higher flow rates than conventional overhead systems, they typically consume less energy than a conventional overhead system due to a number of factors."
Lewis & Clarke to Dedicate Another Green Building
The Business Journal, Article, April 2005
"Howard Hall is expected to consume 40 percent less energy than a typical building of the same size, thanks in large part to raised-floor displacement ventilation and night cooling systems."
The Business Journal, Article, April 2005
"Howard Hall is expected to consume 40 percent less energy than a typical building of the same size, thanks in large part to raised-floor displacement ventilation and night cooling systems."
Forest Hills Fine Arts Center
DCD Magazine, Case Study, November 2004
"Filled with natural light and alive with creative energy, the Forest Hills Public Schools Fine Arts Center provides a stimulating background for art, drama, dance and music..... The theatre is exceptionally quiet, due in part to a uniquely designed, highly efficient HVAC system. Instead of pushing air from the ceiling down 50 feet to the seats, heated and cooled air flows through the plenum to diffusers under the auditorium seats. The result is significant energy savings, a more comfortable environment, and a major reduction in HVAC system noise."
DCD Magazine, Case Study, November 2004
"Filled with natural light and alive with creative energy, the Forest Hills Public Schools Fine Arts Center provides a stimulating background for art, drama, dance and music..... The theatre is exceptionally quiet, due in part to a uniquely designed, highly efficient HVAC system. Instead of pushing air from the ceiling down 50 feet to the seats, heated and cooled air flows through the plenum to diffusers under the auditorium seats. The result is significant energy savings, a more comfortable environment, and a major reduction in HVAC system noise."
New Construction Awards 2004: A New Dimension - Private/Corporate Winner: ABN AMRO Plaza
Buildings Magazine, October 2004A
"The ABN AMRO Plaza is only the second building to be built in Chicago with an underfloor plenum air distribution system. By taking advantage of the natural convection process (providing fresh air through floor diffusers and drawing out return air through ceiling diffusers), the system requires less energy."
Buildings Magazine, October 2004A
"The ABN AMRO Plaza is only the second building to be built in Chicago with an underfloor plenum air distribution system. By taking advantage of the natural convection process (providing fresh air through floor diffusers and drawing out return air through ceiling diffusers), the system requires less energy."
Airway Systems
Buildings Magazine, August 2004
"Early air-conditioning systems utilized air-distribution systems with constant volume and variable temperature to control space temperature. In the 1970s, variable-air volume (VAV) revolutionized how commercial buildings were air-conditioned......Now, another revolution is under way: ductless VAV systems. By eliminating ducts while augmenting the benefits of VAV, these systems have the potential to further improve comfort and reduce energy costs."
Buildings Magazine, August 2004
"Early air-conditioning systems utilized air-distribution systems with constant volume and variable temperature to control space temperature. In the 1970s, variable-air volume (VAV) revolutionized how commercial buildings were air-conditioned......Now, another revolution is under way: ductless VAV systems. By eliminating ducts while augmenting the benefits of VAV, these systems have the potential to further improve comfort and reduce energy costs."
Energy Efficiency Generated Beneath the Floorboards
Denver Business Journal, July 2004
"Underfloor conditioned air is brought directly into the space at floor level.The used, warmer air rises naturally -- along with contaminants -- where it is deposited via ceiling vents. This natural floor-to-ceiling flow of air is not only cleaner, but cheaper. In our particular climate, this can reduce air-conditioning energy consumption by as much as 60 percent."
Denver Business Journal, July 2004
"Underfloor conditioned air is brought directly into the space at floor level.The used, warmer air rises naturally -- along with contaminants -- where it is deposited via ceiling vents. This natural floor-to-ceiling flow of air is not only cleaner, but cheaper. In our particular climate, this can reduce air-conditioning energy consumption by as much as 60 percent."
Energy Efficiency=Productivity
Buildings Magazine, July 2003
"Jeffrey Hines, president, Hines Interests LLC, Houston: Today, our focus is more on the guts of the building. Not that we don’t still like great architecture, but in terms of where we’re trying to be cutting edge, [we are] more internally focused on building systems, the amount of natural light that comes into a space, whether we use raised flooring, and whether we allow individual people at workstations to be able to control their own environment."
Buildings Magazine, July 2003
"Jeffrey Hines, president, Hines Interests LLC, Houston: Today, our focus is more on the guts of the building. Not that we don’t still like great architecture, but in terms of where we’re trying to be cutting edge, [we are] more internally focused on building systems, the amount of natural light that comes into a space, whether we use raised flooring, and whether we allow individual people at workstations to be able to control their own environment."
Raised Floor Ventilation Gains Footing
Wall Street Journal, July 2003
"Raise the floor. That's what building designers are doing....The air system also is cheaper to operate. Because the air enters the office closer to the occupants, it doesn't need to be as cool and is delivered at around 65 degrees. Ceiling systems have to cool hot air at the top of the room before it gets to occupants below. Ceiling systems pump air at around 55 degrees. That requires more robust refrigeration and heating equipment as well as stronger fans. Because raised floors are more energy-efficient, environmentally conscious designers have adopted raised floor as their preferred air-delivery system."
Wall Street Journal, July 2003
"Raise the floor. That's what building designers are doing....The air system also is cheaper to operate. Because the air enters the office closer to the occupants, it doesn't need to be as cool and is delivered at around 65 degrees. Ceiling systems have to cool hot air at the top of the room before it gets to occupants below. Ceiling systems pump air at around 55 degrees. That requires more robust refrigeration and heating equipment as well as stronger fans. Because raised floors are more energy-efficient, environmentally conscious designers have adopted raised floor as their preferred air-delivery system."
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