Project Description

Energy Efficiency is based primarily on the knowledge gained from three important classes, thermodynamics, fluid mechanics, and heat and mass transfer. It draws information from each of these classes and brings it into a real world scenario. Convection analysis of the building and its materials as well as the heating and cooling units is taken from both heat and mass transfer, and thermodynamics. Determining where to install certain HVAC units depends on a fluid analysis of the room and how to best deliver the needed air into the space. The team is utilizing a multitude of programs in order to complete the project. The first is called eQuest, which allows for heating and cooling calculations to be done on the computer, but a foundational background in these classes is necessary to run the program effectively. The next program we used is called Life Cycle Analysis Cost, which allowed our team to calculate the savings that our new system implemented into the dormitory. The next program we used is called the Diamond System builder, which helps create a physical mapping of our system, and a schedule for the installation of each and every component involved in the construction of our project. The final program we used was Computer-Aided Design (CAD), which we used to recreate a 3-D model of the dormitory. After, we were able to implement the new system into these models, and create drawings for the construction that will need to be done.

Equally as important as the programs we used is the interpretation of coolant flow from the rooftop units into the room units along with the understanding what the circulating air throughout the building will do. A background in thermodynamics, fluid mechanics, and heat and mass transfer is necessary for this, because fluid properties of the coolant and air allows for better understanding of the current system in place, and how to improve it. It is also important to understand how the fluid coolant and air will exchange heat with the solids around them, which is taught in both thermodynamics and heat and mass transfer. It is very important to have at least an intermediate knowledge of all three courses, as well as newly acquired knowledge of HVAC design and fundamentals, to be able to understand the project in its entirety.

Project Overview:

Fall 2016

• Redesign the HVAC system at Eastern Central University's Pontotoc Hall to be more energy efficient
  • Adhering to the 2015 International Energy Conservation Code (IECC)
• Designs must ensure quality living conditions for dorm residents
• The new system's construction must fit within summer time window: End of May, June, July, and beginning of August
  • Each wing (A, B, C, and D) will be remodeled separately during different summers
• Research and select Mitsubishi Electric HVAC components for the updated system
• Research and select building materials to improve energy efficiency (Insulation, lights, etc.)
• Compare redesigned systems to the current system in terms of electricity and gas consumption

Spring 2017

• Finalize the system selection designs
• Perform a cost analysis on the systems chosen
• Layout proposed system using Diamond System Builder
• Present a series of "Construction Documents" to Mitsubishi