OPTIMUM OPERATING FACILITY
OPTIMUM OPERATING FACILITY
Whether your venue houses thousands of people for a rock concert, hosts major sporting events or provides a space for your congregation to worship, public assembly spaces present unique challenges for ventilation and life-safety requirements.
Engineered Air Balance has performed testing in many of these facilities and has even performed testing that has redefined the way that the engineering community designs life-safety smoke control systems for these unique buildings.
Our team understands the challenges present with the dynamic nature of the facility and the highly variable occupancy requirements. With integrity, quality, consistency and teamwork, we will work to deliver an optimum operating facility.
The Fort Bend Epicenter, a sprawling 230,000 square-foot multi-functional facility, represents a significant achievement in mechanical systems design and operational efficiency. The facility boasts a comprehensive array of HVAC systems, including single-zone constant volume air handling units (AHUs) and fan coil units (FCU), energy recovery units, indoor mini-dehumidification units, mini-split systems, and various fans serving multiple applications. A dedicated central utility plant, featuring three chillers, three cooling towers, and all associated pumps, along with a heating water system comprising four boilers and their pumps, underscores the complexity and scale of this project.
EAB was tasked with the testing and balancing job for a developer working on behalf of Fort Bend County, marking a pivotal opportunity to establish a strong reputation and relationship with a new client. Delivering high-quality work and operational efficiency was paramount to demonstrate EAB’s value and expertise in managing large-scale and complex projects.
A significant delay in the construction schedule, due to the late installation of permanent power, posed a substantial risk to the project’s timeline. This delay created necessary extended work hours and close collaboration among all trades involved with the HVAC systems to ensure the major systems were functional and balanced in time for the facility’s first scheduled event. The EAB team’s anticipation, preparation, and exceptional execution under pressure were crucial in overcoming this hurdle, maintaining client satisfaction despite the tight timeframe.
An unexpected challenge arose when it was discovered that the off-peak chiller had not been installed due to an equipment shortage, leaving the building to rely on two primary chillers during peak summer heat. Complicating matters, one of the dedicated condenser pumps was damaged and non-operational, threatening the facility’s ability to maintain a comfortable environment. EAB’s innovative solution involved a minor control sequence change to engage a supplemental condenser water pump temporarily. This adjustment allowed both primary chillers to operate efficiently, ensuring the building remained cool until the off-peak chiller could be installed.
EAB’s ability to quickly adapt and implement effective solutions under pressure ensured that the Fort Bend Epicenter’s scheduled events proceeded without issue, despite the significant project delays and mechanical challenges encountered. The client benefited immensely from EAB’s expertise, gaining confidence in the team’s capability to manage and resolve complex issues efficiently. This trust in EAB’s proficiency ensured the project’s success but also solidified a valuable relationship with the client, demonstrating EAB’s commitment to excellence and client satisfaction.
The Fort Bend Epicenter project stands as a testament to EAB’s dedication, technical expertise, and ability to deliver under challenging circumstances. Through innovative problem-solving and unwavering commitment to quality, EAB ensured the facility was prepared to serve the community effectively, reinforcing the client’s trust in EAB’s capabilities and establishing a foundation for future collaboration.
Fort Bend EpicenterThe Fort Bend Epicenter, a sprawling 230,000 square-foot multi-functional facility, represents a significant achievement in mechanical systems design and operational efficiency. The facility boasts a comprehensive array of HVAC systems, including single-zone constant volume air handling units (AHUs) and fan coil units (FCU), energy recovery units, indoor mini-dehumidification units, mini-split systems, and various fans serving multiple applications. A dedicated central utility plant, featuring three chillers, three cooling towers, and all associated pumps, along with a heating water system comprising four boilers and their pumps, underscores the complexity and scale of this project.
EAB was tasked with the testing and balancing job for a developer working on behalf of Fort Bend County, marking a pivotal opportunity to establish a strong reputation and relationship with a new client. Delivering high-quality work and operational efficiency was paramount to demonstrate EAB’s value and expertise in managing large-scale and complex projects.
A significant delay in the construction schedule, due to the late installation of permanent power, posed a substantial risk to the project’s timeline. This delay created necessary extended work hours and close collaboration among all trades involved with the HVAC systems to ensure the major systems were functional and balanced in time for the facility’s first scheduled event. The EAB team’s anticipation, preparation, and exceptional execution under pressure were crucial in overcoming this hurdle, maintaining client satisfaction despite the tight timeframe.
An unexpected challenge arose when it was discovered that the off-peak chiller had not been installed due to an equipment shortage, leaving the building to rely on two primary chillers during peak summer heat. Complicating matters, one of the dedicated condenser pumps was damaged and non-operational, threatening the facility’s ability to maintain a comfortable environment. EAB’s innovative solution involved a minor control sequence change to engage a supplemental condenser water pump temporarily. This adjustment allowed both primary chillers to operate efficiently, ensuring the building remained cool until the off-peak chiller could be installed.
EAB’s ability to quickly adapt and implement effective solutions under pressure ensured that the Fort Bend Epicenter’s scheduled events proceeded without issue, despite the significant project delays and mechanical challenges encountered. The client benefited immensely from EAB’s expertise, gaining confidence in the team’s capability to manage and resolve complex issues efficiently. This trust in EAB’s proficiency ensured the project’s success but also solidified a valuable relationship with the client, demonstrating EAB’s commitment to excellence and client satisfaction.
The Fort Bend Epicenter project stands as a testament to EAB’s dedication, technical expertise, and ability to deliver under challenging circumstances. Through innovative problem-solving and unwavering commitment to quality, EAB ensured the facility was prepared to serve the community effectively, reinforcing the client’s trust in EAB’s capabilities and establishing a foundation for future collaboration.
Texas State University’s Strahan Coliseum underwent a substantial expansion from 2016-2018, resulting in the creation of the University Events Center and Strahan Arena. The expansion added 68,000 square feet of space, including the University Event Center, relocated the band practice field, updated locker rooms and coaches’ offices, added 1,800 seats to the arena, and incorporated training facilities. A chiller plant and a center-hung scoreboard were also installed. The expanded facility, now known as Strahan Arena at the University Events Center, serves as the central hub for Texas State Athletics. The project was completed in November 2018, costing $62.5 million and adding 81,300 gross square feet of space. EAB provided Total System Balancing for the HVAC systems.
The TAB (Test and Balance) scope of work involved several components in the Strahan Central Plant. This included the installation of new condenser water pumps, chillers, cooling towers, chilled water pumps, and FCUs (Fan Coil Units), along with the implementation of a refrigerant exhaust system. Additionally, 13 new AHUs (Air Handling Units) and exhaust systems were replaced and tested throughout the entire facility. Furthermore, four existing AHU systems were tested and verified. The project also encompassed the installation of new CHW (Chilled Water) and HW (Hot Water) tertiary pumps for the Events Center and the water balancing of the AHU coils.
EAB played a crucial role in the project’s success by providing scheduling input and supplying manpower as needed to meet the designated timelines. The project consisted of multiple phases, including extended blackout periods without power. Unique to this project, EAB conducted multiple mobilizations for phasing and after-hours testing. During the testing process, issues with the existing systems were identified and promptly communicated to the owner for necessary corrections. EAB’s comprehensive approach and specialized testing procedures ensured the project’s smooth execution and compliance with the scope of work.
At the end of the project, the Engineered Air Balance Team turned over an optimum operating system that will serve Texas State University’s growing student population for years to come.
Texas State University Events Center and Strahan ArenaTexas State University’s Strahan Coliseum underwent a substantial expansion from 2016-2018, resulting in the creation of the University Events Center and Strahan Arena. The expansion added 68,000 square feet of space, including the University Event Center, relocated the band practice field, updated locker rooms and coaches’ offices, added 1,800 seats to the arena, and incorporated training facilities. A chiller plant and a center-hung scoreboard were also installed. The expanded facility, now known as Strahan Arena at the University Events Center, serves as the central hub for Texas State Athletics. The project was completed in November 2018, costing $62.5 million and adding 81,300 gross square feet of space. EAB provided Total System Balancing for the HVAC systems.
The TAB (Test and Balance) scope of work involved several components in the Strahan Central Plant. This included the installation of new condenser water pumps, chillers, cooling towers, chilled water pumps, and FCUs (Fan Coil Units), along with the implementation of a refrigerant exhaust system. Additionally, 13 new AHUs (Air Handling Units) and exhaust systems were replaced and tested throughout the entire facility. Furthermore, four existing AHU systems were tested and verified. The project also encompassed the installation of new CHW (Chilled Water) and HW (Hot Water) tertiary pumps for the Events Center and the water balancing of the AHU coils.
EAB played a crucial role in the project’s success by providing scheduling input and supplying manpower as needed to meet the designated timelines. The project consisted of multiple phases, including extended blackout periods without power. Unique to this project, EAB conducted multiple mobilizations for phasing and after-hours testing. During the testing process, issues with the existing systems were identified and promptly communicated to the owner for necessary corrections. EAB’s comprehensive approach and specialized testing procedures ensured the project’s smooth execution and compliance with the scope of work.
At the end of the project, the Engineered Air Balance Team turned over an optimum operating system that will serve Texas State University’s growing student population for years to come.
The Alamodome is a multi-purpose entertainment stadium with 65,000 seats, expandable to 72,000 seats, in San Antonio, Texas. Its distinctive design features a 9-acre roof hanging from four 100-foot masts. The arena can be set in 24 different set-up possibilities and has two Olympic-sized, permanent ice rinks that meet professional standards for hockey, figure skating and speed skating.
In preparation of the Alamodome’s opening in May of 1993, EAB was hired because of our specifically trained and equipped team of experts. In order to deliver an optimum operating facility, the temperature control system was tested while the facility was set up for football, basketball, hockey and concerts. EAB tested and balanced the HVAC systems, verified HVAC control point and sensor calibration and performed HVAC control sequence verification.
In addition to testing and balancing, EAB was exclusively requested for a special project to assess the smoke control system by building a fire, demonstrating to the fire marshal that in the event of an actual fire the occupants had sufficient time to exit before the smoke plume fell from the 170-foot-high ceiling to the seating area. EAB built a controlled 10-megawatt fire with an equal amount of smoke. EAB led the project team, hired a smoke control consultant to assist with the implementation of the fire and smoke, and hired a research team to analyze the data trends by measuring the temperature of the rising smoke plume and the temperature spread across the roof.
Our beneficial findings were used by NFPA and the ASHRAE technical committee for smoke control system design to revise the mathematical models for all large-volume public assembly spaces, impacting the design of large smoke control systems for years to come.
Smoke Control at the AlamodomeThe Alamodome is a multi-purpose entertainment stadium with 65,000 seats, expandable to 72,000 seats, in San Antonio, Texas. Its distinctive design features a 9-acre roof hanging from four 100-foot masts. The arena can be set in 24 different set-up possibilities and has two Olympic-sized, permanent ice rinks that meet professional standards for hockey, figure skating and speed skating.
In preparation of the Alamodome’s opening in May of 1993, EAB was hired because of our specifically trained and equipped team of experts. In order to deliver an optimum operating facility, the temperature control system was tested while the facility was set up for football, basketball, hockey and concerts. EAB tested and balanced the HVAC systems, verified HVAC control point and sensor calibration and performed HVAC control sequence verification.
In addition to testing and balancing, EAB was exclusively requested for a special project to assess the smoke control system by building a fire, demonstrating to the fire marshal that in the event of an actual fire the occupants had sufficient time to exit before the smoke plume fell from the 170-foot-high ceiling to the seating area. EAB built a controlled 10-megawatt fire with an equal amount of smoke. EAB led the project team, hired a smoke control consultant to assist with the implementation of the fire and smoke, and hired a research team to analyze the data trends by measuring the temperature of the rising smoke plume and the temperature spread across the roof.
Our beneficial findings were used by NFPA and the ASHRAE technical committee for smoke control system design to revise the mathematical models for all large-volume public assembly spaces, impacting the design of large smoke control systems for years to come.