1998 ASHRAE Technology Award: Innovative Underfloor System PDF

Focuses on a HVAC system serving a 36,230m² (390,000ft²) seven-level library opened in May 1995 in Vancouver. The system includes an underfloor supply air distribution system, ice storage system and dynamic thermal storage. The unique underfloor system uses a low pressure, floor plenum approach with an access floor consisting of removable panels that provides easy access to wiring and equipment. The underfloor system provides good indoor air quality and lower cooling energy usage and the systems create a drier interior condition to support the preservation of the books. The exposed concrete ceiling absorbs radiant heat during the day and fans can use outdoor air to purge the heat during the night. The low temperature air and ice storage systems reduced the capital cost by $250,000 (Canadian dollars) and save $20,000 in operating costs per year.