ASHRAE releases new guide

Provides design, construction, operation of underfloor air distribution systems

Pointing out that the use of underfloor air distribution (UFAD) systems is increasing in commercial and institutional buildings in North America, ASHRAE has announced publishing a new comprehensive guide on their design, construction and operation. Titled UFAD Guide: Design, Construction and Operation of Underfloor Air Distribution (UFAD) Systems, it incorporated updated results from laboratory and field experiments, the announcement said. Also included were simulation studies, manufacturers’ literature, design experiences from practising engineers and other relevant guidelines from users of UFAD, ASHRAE informed.

For those in the construction, building commissioning and operations and maintenance industries, this design guide provided a wealth of information on an emerging technology, all while keeping in mind the typical flow of decision making, ASHRAE claimed.

Throwing light on UFAD, James Megerson, lead author and a member of ASHRAE’s technical resource group on underfloor air distribution, said: “There are many advantages to UFAD that make it an attractive building system solution. It truly integrates the heating and air conditioning system with the entire building by utilising 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 economiser operation, the system has the potential to use much lower energy than ducted systems.”