A new technology from Rickard measures air flow
at the diffuser and helps to maintain air quality while
minimising costs.
Fantech have been marketing and distributing the
Rickard VAV diffuser range as an alternative to
traditional systems since 2011. An innovative new
technology from Rickard is the air flow sensor which
has been designed to work with its range of ceiling
and linear slot electronic Variable Air Volume (VAV)
diffusers. It accurately measures the pressure of air
as it exits the diffuser and relays this to the Master
Communications Unit (MCU) software to calculate
the air flow (l/s) and total pressure (Pa). This can also
be communicated to the BMS (BacNet, ms/ tp or
LONworks) for ongoing monitoring.
Fantech Product Manager - Intelligent Ventilation
Systems Peter Henry said integrating the Rickard air
flow sensors with the BMS had several advantages.
“It simplifies commissioning and overall air balancing
which can be done electronically,” he said.
In static commissioning mode the user sets the
pressure that will be maintained during system
operation whereas the adaptive commissioning
mode allows the user to set the diffuser to a
minimum and maximum air flow value. If pressures
rise too high, the diffuser reduces the air flow to the
designated maximum level, therefore reducing energy
consumption and preventing over-cooling or heating.
Peter said mechanical consultants are now specifying
a minimum air requirement for particular rooms in
hospitals, universities and office areas in commercial
buildings. “The minimum position on the sensor ensures that sufficient air is
always delivered
to that space,”
he said.
“Rickard
electronic VAV
diffusers with
integrated air
flow sensors
can provide
precise
volumes of air
with less than
10% error. In
applications
where air flow
requirements
are less critical,
sensors can be fitted to one
diffuser in each zone. When used correctly,
the BMS monitors air flow levels, so diagnostics
easily identify problem areas.”
Energy consumption can also be monitored and building air flow
fine-tuned to optimise energy usage performance. Peter said
this was particularly important in older buildings where some of
the duct work may have moved or been damaged affecting the
performance of the ventilation system.
“This is a great new product that will save building
developers on several levels. To help introduce customers
to the new technology Fantech will be on hand to
provide on-site training when contractors use
the product for the first time.”
Contact your local Fantech office
for further information on the
Rickard air flow sensor or
range of VAV diffusers.
