A new and more flexible Variable Air Volume (VAV) system is helping consultants and contractors take the next step in HVAC system efficiency whilst having the potential to save on capital costs.

For the past 30 years VAV systems have been the preferred air distribution method. Traditionally these have incorporated an Air Handling Unit or Fan Coil Unit with AC fans connected to a high-pressure duct network that delivers air through an inefficient VAV box with a fixed geometry diffuser. EC fans have helped to improve the energy efficiency, but the system remains moderately efficient and is limited in that it cannot be adapted to system layout changes and has the potential for noise issues.

Fantech has addressed these shortcomings and developed a fully integrated VAV system known as AirLink. By utilising multiple technologies and Static Regain Duct Design, AirLink minimises energy consumption and delivers a more efficient, more adaptive air distribution solution to help create a comfortable indoor space. Capable of precise air delivery to every room, this flexible VAV solution is easy to re-zone and changes to the system layout can be made quickly if required.

When ducting is designed with the Static Regain method a capital saving is achievable in almost all cases. Independent analysis that supports this has been produced based on a range of different buildings in Australia.

The AirLink VAV system includes four key components:

1. Air Design Air Handling/Fan Coil Units, fitted with highly advanced single or multiple energy saving EC fans that can deliver the full range of air flows with maximum efficiency.
2. Rickard electronic Variable Air Volume (VAV) diffusers. These are intelligent modular systems that can be zoned into independently controlled comfort areas and significantly reduce power consumption of the air handling system.
3. Fantech adjustable pitch axial fans. They incorporate high performance impeller blades that harness the latest design technologies to deliver enhanced pressure development, energy efficiency and reduced noise levels.
4. A low-pressure duct system utilising static regain to ensure even pressure across the diffusers and reduce commissioning time as the duct design is self-balancing.

This integrated system is very effective in applications where the occupancy level and conditions vary during the day. The ventilation rate automatically adjusts to meet these changing requirements of the area, minimising energy consumption while helping to maintain a healthy and productive environment. The extensive range of sizes for each component make the AirLink system suitable for a vast range of commercial buildings, including schools and universities, hospitals, convention centres and office blocks.