Enhancing Energy Efficiency in HVAC Systems: A Comprehensive Study of EC+ Fans, VFDs, and AI Integration

Year : 2024 | Volume : 11 | Issue : 03 | Page : 44 54
    By

    Dhanush M,

  • Shivashankar Hiremath,

  • Subramanya R Prabhu B,

  1. Student, Department of Mechatronics, Manipal Institute of Technology, Manipal Academy Higher Education (MAHE), Karnataka, India
  2. Professor, Department of Mechatronics, Manipal Institute of Technology, Manipal Academy Higher Education (MAHE), Karnataka, India
  3. Professor, Department of Mechatronics, Manipal Institute of Technology, Manipal Academy Higher Education (MAHE), Karnataka, India

Abstract

This research paper explores the integration of EC+ fans with Variable Frequency Drives (VFDs) and Permanent Magnet (PM) motors to enhance energy efficiency and operational performance in heating, ventilation, and air conditioning (HVAC) systems. An extensive energy audit was conducted at the BidP plant in Bangalore, focusing on air handling units (AHUs) in Hangar 101. The audit revealed substantial variations in fan efficiency, secondary fan performance, power consumption, and airflow rates, particularly between the North and South sides of the hangar. To optimize the HVAC design, key calculations were performed, including heating load and cooling load assessments, airflow (CFM) evaluations, and pressure drop analyses through ductwork. These calculations utilized established formulas and methodologies, leading to a better understanding of the facility’s thermal dynamics and the heat transfer requirements of clean rooms. The findings indicated that axial flow fans significantly outperform centrifugal fans in efficiency and reliability, achieving a total efficiency of approximately 85% while providing smooth airflow with minimal pressure loss. Moreover, the proposed solution architecture involves implementing an AI model for dynamic control of AHUs based on real-time sensor data, allowing for adaptive modulation of airflow and energy consumption. This paper highlights the critical role of advanced technologies in achieving sustainable HVAC solutions and reducing carbon emissions. The insights gained from this research will guide future implementations of energy-efficient systems, promoting best practices in facility management while contributing to the broader goals of environmental sustainability and energy conservation in industrial applications

Keywords: Energy efficiency, EC+ Fans, HVAC systems, clean room technology, air handling units (AHUs)

[This article belongs to Trends in Machine design ]

How to cite this article:
Dhanush M, Shivashankar Hiremath, Subramanya R Prabhu B. Enhancing Energy Efficiency in HVAC Systems: A Comprehensive Study of EC+ Fans, VFDs, and AI Integration. Trends in Machine design. 2024; 11(03):44-54.
How to cite this URL:
Dhanush M, Shivashankar Hiremath, Subramanya R Prabhu B. Enhancing Energy Efficiency in HVAC Systems: A Comprehensive Study of EC+ Fans, VFDs, and AI Integration. Trends in Machine design. 2024; 11(03):44-54. Available from: https://journals.stmjournals.com/tmd/article=2024/view=191609


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Regular Issue Subscription Original Research
Volume 11
Issue 03
Received 25/10/2024
Accepted 29/10/2024
Published 31/12/2024
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