by Shane Henson — July 15, 2013—With the use of underfloor air distribution (UFAD) systems increasing in commercial and institutional buildings in North America, the American Society of Heating, Refrigerating and Air-Conditioning Engineers (ASHRAE) has published a new comprehensive guide on the systems’ design, construction and operation.
According to the organization, UFAD Guide: Design, Construction and Operation of Underfloor Air Distribution (UFAD) Systems incorporates updated results from laboratory and field experiments. Also included are simulation studies, manufacturers’ literature, design experiences from practicing engineers, and other relevant guidelines from users of UFAD. For those in the construction, building commissioning and operations and maintenance industries, this design guide provides a wealth of information on an emerging technology, all while keeping in mind the typical flow of decision making.
“There are many advantages to UFAD that make it an attractive building system solution,” notes James Megerson, lead author and a member of ASHRAE’s technical resource group on underfloor air distribution. “It truly integrates the heating and air-conditioning system with the entire building by utilizing common building materials as the air delivery means. The raised access floor allows accessibility to other building system infrastructure, such as power and data cabling, to facilitate easier space reconfiguration. Due to the lower system operating pressures and potential to expand economizer operation, the system has the potential to use much lower energy than ducted systems.”
In addition to ASHRAE’s recently released UFAD Guide: Design, Construction and Operation of Underfloor Air Distribution (UFAD) Systems, the organization offers building professionals a host of other publications and resources through the ASHRAE Bookstore, including standards and guidelines, reports, and software and CDs.
