APPLICATION

The University of Arizona Grand Challenges project, a cutting-edge facility dedicated to advanced research, involved key players like bws Architects, AEI, Kitchell and Sun Mechanical.

Varitec Solutions played a significant role by providing specialized HVAC systems featuring high-pressure atomization humidification and chilled beams for cooling. These innovative solutions ensured optimal environmental control and comfort, addressing the unique requirements of various lab spaces and supporting the facility’s advanced functions.

DESIGN & PRODUCT SOLUTIONS

Varitec Solutions played a pivotal role by working closely with AEI to establish the basis of design for both the humidification and chilled beam equipment. Leveraging their expertise in applied HVAC systems and strong relationships with manufacturers like DriSteem and Dadanco, Varitec facilitated a streamlined submittal process.

This collaboration ensured that complex design and installation challenges were addressed efficiently, keeping the project on schedule and within budget.

Key Products and Their Roles

To meet the unique demands of the facility, several specialized products were selected:

• DriSteem High-Pressure Atomization Humidification System
  • Purpose: Provides precise humidity control across multiple lab spaces.
  • Features: Central pump station design allows for scalability and easy expansion.
  • Benefits: Efficiently maintains optimal humidity levels essential for sensitive research environments and equipment.

• Dadanco Chilled Beams
  • Purpose: Offers effective and energy-efficient cooling.
  • Features: Multiple orientation options to fit various architectural requirements.
  • Benefits: Enhances thermal comfort while maintaining an aesthetically pleasing exposed ceiling design.
  

Installation Challenges and Solutions

One of the unique challenges was installing chilled beams and other HVAC components in an exposed ceiling environment. To achieve a seamless aesthetic, all ceiling elements—including chilled beams, diffusers, and piping—had to be painted black. This requirement added complexity to the installation process, necessitating meticulous planning and execution.

Additionally, the chilled beams required careful selection from various orientation options beyond the typical right-hand or left-hand coil connections. Dadanco provided comprehensive documentation outlining all possible orientations, enabling Sun Mechanical to select configurations that best suited the building’s design and functional needs.

Collaboration and Problem-Solving

Varitec Solutions utilized its strong relationships with manufacturers to facilitate timely and effective communication. By engaging directly with factory experts, they obtained critical input and promptly addressed design and installation questions as they arose. This proactive approach ensured that potential issues were resolved before impacting the project timeline.

Performance and Efficiency

Since completion, the installed HVAC systems have exceeded performance expectations. The DriSteem humidification system’s central pump station design has proven particularly advantageous, allowing for seamless expansion from the initial three zones to seventeen zones. This scalability accommodates additional lab spaces as professors and researchers request humidity control for their environments.

The chilled beam systems deliver efficient cooling while contributing to the building’s modern, industrial aesthetic. The combination of precise humidity control and effective cooling creates optimal conditions for advanced research activities, ensuring both the integrity of sensitive experiments and the comfort of occupants.

Performance and Efficiency

The advanced HVAC solutions have significantly enhanced the facility’s capabilities:

• Adaptability: The system’s scalability allows for future expansions without major overhauls.
• Energy Efficiency: Utilizing chilled beams and high-pressure humidification reduces energy consumption compared to traditional systems.
• Occupant Comfort: Precise environmental controls provide a safe and comfortable environment for immunocompromised individuals and sensitive equipment.

Conclusion

The University of Arizona Grand Challenges project stands as a testament to the importance of collaboration, innovative design, and specialized product selection in achieving superior environmental control in advanced research facilities.

Varitec Solutions’ contributions were crucial in addressing the unique requirements of the facility, ensuring optimal performance, and enhancing the capabilities of the research spaces.