A Net Zero Laboratory In Spite of Hurricanes and Humidity
John Weale, P.E., LEED AP®, Integral Group
Joshua Gassman, RA, LEED AP, Lord, Aeck & Sargent Architecture
In pursuit of high efficiency and a robust system, a number of innovative systems approaches are being deployed to optimize the net zero laboratory currently under design in the Caribbean. From the earliest design stages, a plug load survey and energy budget have been established to capture all predicted power usage from SCUBA tank recharging air compressors down to computer equipment.
In what is believed to be a first for a laboratory system, the fire sprinkler system is being integrated into the hydronic cooling loop. To cool the space, radiant cooling tubing embedded in the floor mass offers a very robust, nearly maintenance free system. During normal operation, the cool (60 to 68 degrees Fahrenheit) return water from the radiant cooling slabs will use the overhead sprinkler piping network as a return line, reducing first cost and embodied energy, and even providing a small amount of additional radiant cooling capacity.
To provide dehumidification without subcooling the outdoor air, a desiccant system is specified. A number of options are available, ranging from a custom-configured system to an off-the-shelf air handler from a major manufacturer. Simplicity of operation and maintenance is a key requirement, a goal advanced by achieving all required dehumidification using the same medium temperature loop that feeds the radiant floor.
The architecture is being optimized to minimize loads and provide the area required to mount the solar array powering the facility. To maximize the survivability of the laboratories in case of loss of power, and minimize energy use to make the net zero goal, a solar chimney is being integrated into the building to provide passive ventilation. During daylight hours, the solar chimney is heated by the sun and provides ventilation of the laboratory space without requiring any fan power.
Biographies:
John Weale, an engineering fellow at Integral Group, has been involved as a lead designer or key technical adviser on most of Integral Group's significant projects, including four LEED® Platinum and five LEED Gold buildings (including laboratories). He is proficient in energy modeling and analysis as well as in design, and has extensive experience with highly energy-efficient mechanical systems for critical environments (cleanrooms, laboratories, and data centers), and a wide range of other building types and central plants. In the high-technology sector, Mr. Weale has designed many high-efficiency systems for cleanrooms, laboratory buildings, data centers, and manufacturing buildings with specialized cooling, ventilation, exhaust, and pressurization control requirements. He is a specialist in optimized laboratory fan systems and has served as an instructor for the Labs21 Low Pressure Drop design course.
Joshua Gassman is a project manager with Lord, Aeck & Sargent Architecture. With more than 11 years of experience, he enjoys coordinating technically challenging projects with large, multi-faceted consultant teams. By serving as the point of contact between the client and project design team, he manages his projects by effectively communicating project criteria, assuring the client's budget and schedules are met. He has a depth of knowledge of the U.S. Green Building Council's LEED Green Building Rating System and is a LEED AP. He has worked extensively on projects involving challenging daylighting criteria. Mr. Gassman received his Masters of Architecture from Arizona State University and his bachelor's degree from Washington University.