April/August 2014Newsletter Number 79

Want to keep up to date with Fantech’s latest news? Follow us on twitter.com/fantech_austnz

Jack Pirie touched a lot of lives as a mentor, an adviser and most importantly a great friend. With his passing on 15 July, 2014, Australia’s HVAC industry has lost one of its great leaders and innovators.

Jack and friend Glen Harries began Fantech in February 1973 from a bedroom in Glen’s house. Together they built the company from virtually nothing but a passion to provide customers with quality products and the service they deserved.

He was a visionary, and was not afraid to take calculated risks that would improve the business and the products and services it offered.

His commitment to customers and drive to succeed led to a number of market-leading product developments. One such development is the Minivent exhaust fan, which came about when the contractor for a new shopping centre came to Fantech with a ventilation challenge. This ignited Jack’s tenacity and competitive spirit. He would make it possible, no matter what it took, and set about designing a small roof-mounted exhaust fan, unheard of until that time. He provided the contractor with the perfect solution, and with a large investment in a revolutionary all-plastic cowling, it become the very popular Minivent.

As well as his attention to detail and expertise in fan engineering, Jack had a passion for marketing and a strong desire to share his knowledge. This passion drove him to create the first edition of Tech Talk, an informative

newsletter that is now in its 79th edition and continues to feature new products and key projects.

Jack was the driving force behind the creation of the first Fans by Fantech hard cover catalogue in 1993. He worked tirelessly at every detail on every page to produce a reference book that proudly set Fantech apart in the industry. Jack saw the potential of providing the market with a tool that would dramatically simplify fan selections and as a result he helped create the first interactive product selection program. It was a massive investment for the time, but he saw the benefits it offered to customers and staff.

Confident that the company he and Glen started was in good hands Jack retired from his position as Managing Director in 2000, and continued as a non-executive Chairman until 2012.

His efforts and dedication to the industry through AIRAH and CIBSE earned Jack much respect amongst his peers culminating in 2010 when he was inducted into the ARBS Hall of Fame.

Jack is survived by his wife Clare and their three children - Stuart, Katrina and Andrew.

Jack made a difference and had an impact on many people’s lives as he was a man who truly valued and believed in the people around him. He will be sadly missed.

Vale Jack Pirie

low us o

A legacy to be proud of

JetVent fans have been proven to be an effective and cost efficient method of ventilating car parks. Their potential to reduce construction costs and create savings in on-site ducting and labour have made them an effective alternative to conventional car park ventilation.

As the technology is still relatively new in Australia the ‘Technically Speaking’ article in this issue aims to answer some common questions about the design of JetVent fan systems for car park ventilation and compliance with the Building Code of Australia (BCA). (Story continues inside)

JetVent - “Deemed to satisfy” as an alternative solution

Fan FanFanFan FanFanFanFan

Air flow Jet Fan

Sprinkler heads

Fig.1 DTS condition Fig. 2 Non-DTS condition

BCA2013 FP4.4 A mechanical air-handling system installed in a building must control

a) the circulation of objectionable odours; and b) the accumulation of harmful contamination by micro-organisms, pathogens and toxins.

The most comprehensive way of demonstrating this is by producing a Computation Fluid Dynamics (CFD) model of the car park. The model has to simulate pollution and air flow movement within the car park to ensure that carbon monoxide (CO) levels meet the requirements outlined in BCA2013 FP4.4. This approach may be unnecessary for smaller car parks and those partially served by natural ventilation. In these cases, ‘expert judgment’ (or knowledge gained from projects completed previously) may indicate that a proposed car park ventilation design using JetVent fans will be adequate.

In order for the JetVent fan ventilation system to be approved as an alternative design solution under AS1668.2:2012, it will need to be demonstrated that CO concentration levels between 900mm and 2500mm above the floor are limited to:(i) 60ppm 1hr maximum average(ii) 100ppm peak value; and(iii) 30ppm Time-Weighted Average (TWA) over 8hrs

The 60 ppm 1hr maximum average is taken to be the significant design criteria because this assumes peak CO concentrations do not exceed 100 ppm (as detailed in Section J5 of AS1668.2 2012). The 30 ppm time weighted average is rarely used as it applies to car parks where people work within the confines of the car park without having separate ventilation systems for their work area (eg. car parks with a car wash inside or parking attendant booths with no other sources of ventilation).

BCA2013 EP1.4 An automatic fire suppression system must be installed to the degree necessary to facilitate to control the development and spread of fire appropriate to – a) The size of the fire compartment; and b) The function or use of the building; and c) The fire hazard; and d) The height of the building.

In order to comply with performance requirement EP1.4, JetVent fans should be located in-between sprinkler heads as per Figure 3. A CFD analysis may be required to show that the difference on sprinkler activation times between JetVent fans running at full design speed and switched off is negligible. Fast response sprinkler heads can be a good option to further improve safety.

It should also be shown thatthe air velocities at the sprinkler head positions are minimal.

BCA2013 FP4.4 A mechanical air-handling system installed in a building must control

) the circulation of objectionable odours; anda) bJetVent fans

BCA compliance requirements

From front cover

Fig. 3: JetVent fan positioning in relation to sprinkler heads.

Are JetVent fans “Deemed-to-Satisfy”?To meet the ‘Deemed-to-Satisfy’ (DTS) requirements of the BCA, a car park ventilation system must comply with AS1668.2:2012 or an adequate system of permanent natural ventilation (Section F4.11) and AS/NZS1668.1:1998.

To date the only reference to the use of jet fans in the ‘Deemed-to-Satisfy’ provisions for car park ventilation is in clause 4.4.2(c) of AS/NZS1668.2:2012. It allows jet fans to assist with the ventilation of a ducted system in areas that are difficult or impractical to reach with ducting. In other words, using a single jet fan to move air from a dead spot can be made deemed-to-satisfy from a ventilation perspective. As soon as a jet fan moves air to another fan or jet fan, this would fall outside of this clause.

Clause 5.5 of AS/NZS1668.1:1998 only references supply and exhaust fans. This is because the standard was written before jet fans were introduced into Australia in 2005. As jet fans are not mentioned in the current standard they do not meet the deemed-to-satisfy provisions from a fire and smoke control perspective.

Therefore, an alternative solution showing compliance with the ventilation and fire/smoke control performance provisions of the BCA will be required for most JetVent fan projects.

Formulating an alternative solutionThe most common method of proving compliance for JetVent fans is by performing an alternative solution. An Independent Statutory Body has agreed that the relevant performance requirements applicable to jet fans are FP4.4, EP1.4, and EP2.2 of BCA2013 (where jet fans are outside the Deemed-to-Satisfy requirements).

Technically Speaking with Kerry Dumicich

Fire EFir

Enginethe ap

and

Tand

F

Changing the Fan Speed with a VSDFans that can be controlled with Variable Speed Drives (VSD) or have in-built speed control will display a Speed Slider Bar in the Performance Data Panel. The speed can be adjusted using the slider or by typing a frequency into the accompanying box. This will automatically calculate the actual performance and sound data at the new speed.

You can also select a fan for two-speed operation where a VSD will be utilised for low speed (Adjustable Pitch fans only). Under the “Variable Speed (VSD)/Belt Drive” section of the Advanced Select Fan tab, enter the air flow and pressure for the fan at low speed, and the selected fans willhave data at both speeds, using a VSD at the low speed.

If you haven’t got your copy of Fantech’s new Product Selection Program, make sure you contact your local office.

Air Design celebrates 35 years

with Stuart Bryson

Fans by FantechProduct Selection Program

Derek Gattegno created Air Design in 1979 and soon called on fellow mechanical engineering classmate Neil Bone to come on board as a business partner. Right from the start the business was built on the highest quality products and a skilled team that focused on service and customer satisfaction.

From the early days Air Design distributed the full range of Fantech fans and attenuators throughout Queensland, further afield to Darwin and even Papua New Guinea. In 1998 Air Design changed the Australian air handling unit market by launching the Australian made Modutherm range that incorporated a unique thermal barrier construction.

Queensland State Manager Shawn Harris said the company was purchased by Fantech in 2007. “Being part of the Fantech group provides connections with customers throughout Australia, New Zealand and South East Asia. The Modutherm range has continued to grow and today Air Design has a team of 68 dedicated staff,” he said.

Shawn said the technology had changed considerably in the past 35 years, but the company’s commitment to providing the right products to meet customers’ needs was still the total focus.

“We have made a lot of progress in the way we present product information to customers. We started with a ring binder catalogue of product brochures and today have an interactive Product Selection Program for customers to access more detailed information quickly.

“In recent years there has been a focus on energy efficient products. As a result we will continue to offer quality products like Modutherm air handling units with EC plug fans and optional energy recovery, VSDs, Rickard variable air volume diffusers, high efficiency EC fans and the JetVent carpark ventilation fans to meet customer’s ‘green’ requirements,” he said.

BCA2013 EP2.2 a) In the event of a fire in a building the conditions in any evacuation route must be maintained for the period of time occupants take to evacuate the part of the building so that: (i) The temperature will not endanger human life: and (ii) The level of visibility will enable the evacuation route to be determined; and (iii) The level of toxicity will not endanger human life b) The period of time occupants take to evacuate referred to in (a) must be appropriate to: (i) The number, mobility and other characteristics of the occupants; and (ii) The function or use of the building; and (iii) The travel distance and other characteristics of the building; and (iv) The fire load; and (v) The potential fire intensity; and (vi) The fire hazard; and (vii) Any active fire safety systems installed in the building; and (viii) Fire brigade intervention

The fire engineer should discuss with the local authorities how compliance with EP2.2 will be achieved as requirements can vary depending on project location. If a system containing JetVent fans was shown to be at least equivalent to the Deemed to Satisfy provisions during occupant evacuation, then Performance Requirement EP2.2 could be met according to Clause A0.5 of BCA 2013.

Alternatively if it can be shown that the conditions in any evacuation route are maintained for the period of time occupants take to evacuate, this would also show compliance with EP2.2.

A CFD analysis may be performed to demonstrate compliance with either of the above requirements.

Is Additional Detection Required?When jet fans are shut down, tests have shown that smoke layers reform improving visibility. It is therefore desirable to shut down JetVent fans on the detection of a fire (typically through the sprinkler system).

Fantech suggests that JetVent fans should be placed in the driveways of a car park as fires are most likely to occur in the car parking bays. The risk of affecting sprinkler operation would be reduced as the JetVent fans would then be positioned away from the fire affected sprinkler heads.

To cover the unlikely event that a fire occurs directly in front of a JetVent fan, an additional fire or smoke detection device is required. Fantech can offer an integrated duct probe smoke detection solution to meet this condition.

What does my Fire Engineer need to do?

At the start of the design process the Fire Engineer should add JetVent fans

to the alternative solutions in the Engineering Brief and meet with the appropriate re Brigade to discuss. The purpose of the Fire eering Brief is to table all alternative solutions with pproval authority (in most cases the Fire Brigade) to obtain approval with any conditions that may

need to be addressed.

This will give design certainty for the project d ensure that all parties are aware of the steps

that will need to be taken.

For more information regarding JetVent fans please contact your local Fantech office.

AFEN

GIN

EER

S

NTRAINING PROGRAM

Training program to increase your fan IQ

As the heart of a new medical precinct on Adelaide’s North Terrace, the South Australian Health and Medical Research Institute (SAHMRI) is a beacon of innovation and collaboration.

The purpose-built facility is home to more than 600 scientists who conduct research in the areas of: cancer; heart health; infections and immunity; mind and brain; nutrition and metabolism as well as aboriginal health and healthy mothers, babies and children. Together they work to translate medical research from the laboratories into better treatments and cures for the wider community.

Teamwork is one of five core values of the institute, and a key driver for the design brief was that the building foster collaboration between researchers and enable interactive community engagement and education programs. Furthermore, SAHMRI’s vision was to provide a fully integrated solution across all building services, facilities and functional areas.

The Federal Government contributed $200 million towards building a medical research institute in South Australia. Architect Woods Bagot utilised their global team, working around the clock to develop the design. The Adelaide studio led the project with input from designers in Woods Bagot’s New York and Melbourne studios. Construction started in February 2010.

Watson Fitzgerald & Associates was the successful mechanical services contractor. Peter Spencer one of the company directors, confirmed their involvement in the project well before the construction phase on site.

“Revit BIM software was used throughout the project to ensure the design met the client’s brief, and piping and equipment clashes on site were avoided,” he said. “Fantech’s drawings were available through the Fans by Fantech Selection Program, and could be exported directly to the software program saving us time and effort.

“Another main focus was scheduling of equipment to meet the construction milestone dates. Fantech supplied a variety of fans, including Axial Flows for car park; Smoke Spill and general exhaust systems; centrifugal fans for built up air handling units; and high pressure blowers for the cyclotron (a type of particle accelerator). These were delivered on time helping us to stay on track with project milestones,” he said.

The building has a total floor area of 30,000 square metres, over nine stories. The iconic triangular-panelled façade features sunshades, designed and orientated for optimum thermal and light efficiency. Two internal atria with an interconnecting spiral staircase on the eastern atrium allow a visual connection between floors. The floor space and research modules are flexible and there are: a Molecular Imaging Therapy and Research Unit accommodating a cyclotron; Physical Containment (PC2) and Quarantine Containment Level 2 (QC2) laboratories; a Bio resources laboratory; public spaces; and areas designated for interaction between researchers, public, education and IT.

Peter said the building control systems had been integrated to provide real time measurement of energy and water consumption of the building. Monitoring this data will allow the institute to ensure it operates at optimal efficiency and would have contributed to the Leadership in Energy and Environmental Design (LEED) Gold rating. The USA certification program promotes design and construction practices that reduce the environmental impact and improve occupant health and well-being.

SAHMRI was officially opened on 29 November 2013.

...its optimal effi ciency has contributed to Leadership

in Energy and Environmental Design (LEED) GOLD rating.

“

“

Medical research Medical research comes to the comes to the fore in fore in AdelaideAdelaide

Engineers wanting to learn more about fan types and their applications, noise management and air flow characteristics are invited to attend Fantech’s popular Fan Engineers’ Training Program.

The 1 day training program is free of charge & covers the following topics: · Fan/impeller types and characteristics· Fan selection and applications· Electric motors, motor types, MEPS, variable speed drives· Aerodynamic performance and noise testing· BCA - Energy efficiency, AS1668 Part 1 and bushfire zone fans AS3959· Selection of acoustic products and noise management· Do’s and Don’ts in ventilation design

2014 Fan Training ProgramsHong Kong: 08 SeptemberMacau: 09 September Malaysia: 11 September

Melbourne: 23 September Sydney: 12 November For more information please contact Wayne Norton on 03 9554 7831 or email: wnorton@fantech.com.au.

Uninterrupted Fox SportsVacon variable speed drives are working to ensure sports fans enjoy Fox Sports television broadcasts without distraction.

Four Vacon 100X decentralised drive units from Fantech have been installed at Fox Sports to provide a noise-free HVAC system. The television broadcaster has set up its new headquarters in Building C at Gore Hill, a business precinct being developed at Sydney’s North Shore. The building includes: two production studios, a news studio, a data hall, specialist control rooms, voiceover booths and offices.

A noise-free HVAC system was crucial for the television broadcaster and the 100X drives were the ideal solution. Aside from their advanced speed control and energy efficiency,the 100X is rated to IP66 Type 4 outdoors, meaning the drive is able to be installed in direct sunlight and the elements.

The die-cast metal enclosure features distinctive cooling ribs and a GORE-TEX® vent so the drive can operate in extreme temperatures (-40°C to 60°C) without needing to be in an air conditioned space. The vent breathes which helps to equalize the pressures both inside and outside the drive, providing further protection for the seals. This is important because the mechanical roof plant houses chillers and pumps for the building, but is exposed to the weather.

Vacon drives can be installed close to the motors reducing the length of screened cable required and the need to core hole drill through the roof. However, the biggest benefit is that the Vacon 100X has EMC and RFI filters which remove electromagnetic interference and help lower harmonic noise

levels in a speed controlled fan, so the HVAC system does not interfere with Fox Sport’s broadcasting equipment.

Building C was designed to achieve a 5 Star Green Star and 5 Star NABERS energy rating. The use of Vacon drives, along with Gore Hill’s water harvesting and co-generation power supply on site helped Building C receive the 2013 National Commercial/Industrial Construction Award, $20 million to $50 million.

Fox Sports wanted early access to the ground floor and lower ground floors so they could begin broadcasting from the master control room and presentation suite areas. This was a challenge for mechanical services contractor Allstaff Air conditioning, but with the help of smart scheduling the milestone was met. Construction continued around the television presenter, but Fox Sports viewers were oblivious.

Fox Sports officially launched their new headquarters in March 2013. The final stage of the 4.56 hectare Gore Hill site is expected to be complete in 2015.

Product Newswith Peter Henry

New range of JetVent ECThe JetVent EC series (JIU-CPC EC) has been extended with standard, low height and high performance models now available. All three fans come with the option of a factory-fitted integrated smoke detection kit.

JetVent fans are mainly used in fully or partially enclosed car parks, but have also been installed in a number of unique applications such as indoor go-kart tracks. The fans operate on well proven longitudinal tunnel ventilation principles and effectively direct air flow throughout the car park to the exhaust fan.

Fitted with an efficient EC (electronic commutated) motor with integrated speed control, the JetVent EC series does away with VSDs, current overloads and motor phase protection. Due to the proportional control capabilities, the fans all have a soft start and quiet operation under normal conditions.

Each JetVent fan can have up to two pollutant sensors and an integrated smoke detection kit that is powered by the actual fan. ComLink, JetVent’s digital communication system, allows real time information to be digitally transmitted between the fan units and the EcoVent Controller.

The capability of the EcoVent controller has been expanded to accommodate up to 24 JetVent EC fans, 48 pollutant sensors and 24 integrated smoke detectors. The new and improved firmware has also simplified the implementation of automatic, off and override functions.

In automatic mode, the controller responds to signals from the pollutant and smoke detection sensors. It adjusts the speed of the fan to match the level of carbon monoxide or nitrous oxide in the car park. This demand control system improves air quality while minimising energy use as the fans only operate when required.

If any fan in the car park detects smoke, a signal is sent to the Ecovent controller which turns off all fans before sprinkler activation to maximise occupant safety. The fans can be switched on again to clear smoke using the manual override function.

The Victorian Building Appeals Board has given approval for the installation of impulse ventilation systems utilising Fantech JetVent impulse fans in sprinkler protected car park environments. The Board found that the JetVent system with the integrated smoke detector complied with Performance Requirements EP1.4, EP2.2 and FP4.4 of Volume One of the Building Code of Australia (BCA).

For further information on these developments please contact your local Fantech office.

“Extended range with standard, low height and high

performance models...”

Visit our website at www.fantech.com.au

Fantech - a member of the Elta Group of Companies

OLD DETAILS (if applicable)

Name: ............................................

Position: .........................................

Company: ......................................

State: .............................................

“

Visitors to the Fantech stand were also able to gain a sneak peak at new developments including the revolutionary Aerosound acoustic louvre, and the Flair and Silent Design exhaust fans.

Keeping the industry informed of additions and changes to the product range is a priority at Fantech and vitally important to specifiers, consultants and contractors. As a result Fantech is developing integrated information platforms that include tools to access this information easier.

“Customers were impressed by our forward thinking on all the new product literature where QR codes have been added,” Frank said. “By scanning the QR code with their smart phones, customers will link directly to the new Fantech mobile website where they can make product selections and download product specifications and data.”

Frank said the response to this year’s stand had been fantastic and Fantech would continue to improve and extend its product range based on the feedback received from customers.

The popularity of ARBS (Air Conditioning, Refrigeration and Building Services) continues to grow with more than 7,700 visitors drawn to the Melbourne Convention and Exhibition Centre for the three day event in May this year. This year Fantech partnered with Queensland branch Air Design and Elta Group member Airepure to showcase the latest in intelligent ventilation solutions and filtration technology on a large 108m2 stand.

Fantech Marketing Services Manager Frank Cosentino said ARBS 2014 gave exhibitors the opportunity to connect with specifiers, consulting engineers and mechanical contractors from around the country. “It is the ideal venue to discuss the latest technological innovations and demonstrate the products Fantech has developed,” he said. “But most importantly, the direct contact with industry members provides an insight into market needs and feedback for further improvement or new product development.”

One such example is Fantech’s recently introduced Pre-fabricated Modular Assemblies. The assemblies combine Fantech’s quality axial fans with transitions, flexible connectors and anti-vibration mounts in a structurally certified unit. Designed to help customers achieve faster, more efficient project delivery, the modular system simplifies installation, improves on-site productivity and saves engineering, project drafting and labour costs.

“Customers are looking for solutions with lower costs,” Frank said. “Energy efficient products that have a small environmental footprint are in high demand. Fantech’s extended range of EC (Electronically Commutated) fans including the Compact 2000, Gamma and new JetVent car park system with smoke detection, were a highlight of the stand.”

ARBS 2014 - bigger, better and smarter

Please send me a “Keen to be Green” fan installation Mouse Mat.Please send me a “Keen to be Green” fan installation Poster.

Please send me a copy of the Fans by Fantech Product Selection CD.Please send me a copy of the New JetVent guide.

We know you enjoy Tech Talk. How would you prefer to receive it? Please tick one, complete your contact details and return it to us. I would prefer the electronic version of Tech Talk only. I would prefer to get both electronic and printed versions of Tech Talk.I would like to be removed from the Tech Talk distribution list.

Have you relocated? Please help us keepour records up to date by including your new details.

NEW DETAILS

Name: ......................................................................

Position: ...................................................................

Company: ................................................................

Address: ..............................................................................................................................

Suburb: ................................... State:.......................... Postcode: ......................................

Tel: .......................................... Fax: ........................... E-mail: ...........................................Photocopy this form and mail or fax the information to: Fantech Pty. Ltd., 42 - 62 Pound Rd West, Dandenong South, Vic. 3175, Australia. Fax: 61-3-9554 7833 or E-mail: wnorton@fantech.com.au

WOULD YOU LIKE MORE INFORMATION?

Fant

ech

Con

tact

s

AustraliaAdelaide (08) 8294 0530Albury (02) 6025 1866Brisbane (07) 3299 9888Canberra (02) 6280 5511Coffs Harbour (02) 6652 9435Darwin (08) 8947 0447Hobart (03) 6273 6455Launceston (03) 6344 6888Melbourne H.O. (03) 9554 7845Melbourne CBD (03) 9696 3044Newcastle (02) 4961 6088Perth (08) 9209 4999Sydney (02) 8811 0400Sydney CBD (02) 9698 8130Sydney South (02) 9153 6005Townsville (07) 4775 5222Wollongong (02) 4226 5133

New ZealandAuckland H.O. (09) 444 6266Christchurch (03) 379 8622Wellington (04) 566 0532

Asia For agents in the Asian regioncall (603) 7846 0340 or visit www.eltafantechasia.com

“Customers were impressed by Fantech’s

forward thinking...”