The new classroom block at Heathfield School, North Worcestershire’s (UK) leading independent school in Kidderminster has been fitted with our latest generation BACnet control products.
The Elesta RCO 720 D-W BACnet enabled master controller controls both the natural ventilation (windows) and the underfloor heating system and is located in the boiler house control panel, which also offers control and monitoring to the boiler plant, pump set(s) and DHWS generator/pump via RCO I/O modules.
Each of the classrooms has been fitted with C Squared iCRU intelligent BACnet temperature and CO2 sensors. As the iCRU is mstp capable they are linked together with a two core screened cable which in turn communicates with the Elesta RCO 720 D-W controller. Information from the chosen items in the BACnet object list is passed to and from the sensor and acts with the RCO control algorithms to produce within the sensor a 0/10v signal to operate the C Squared iWAC window controller, within each classroom area.
To keep window actuator noise to a minimum, increase control-ability and reduce draft problems the iWAC controller modulates into four positions, 10%, 25%, 45%, and 100% of travel time of the 24v DC actuators.
The underfloor heating manifold valves are controlled via control panel mounted RCO digital output modules acting with RCO control algorithms and the internal temperature sensor value from the iCRU.
Architect David Smith of GAJ UK Limited Chartered Architects commented “To comply with UK building regulations, in particular BB101 we needed to supply natural ventilation to the classrooms. I was also concerned that we got the heating and ventilation automatically working together, using the iCRU has provided this, together with timed manual override of the ventilation should the teacher require it.”
By using BACnet/mstp communications and having 0/10v outputs within the sensor, site wiring is kept to a minimum. And by using one set of sensor values, energy saving control interlocking within the software algorithms prevents heating and natural ventilation ‘crossover’ of set points thus resulting in improved energy efficiency. Frost protection and optimum start is also afforded via the iCRU sensors.
The external weather conditions are monitored by an Elsner weather station connected to the RCO 720 which in the event of adverse weather conditions holds the windows closed or to a minimum position depending upon seasonal need.
As the RCO720 system controller is Web browser capable, and has been installed onto the school IT fibre optic network, the site services manager is able via his desk top computer and using a password, can for example change & read: times/temperatures/CO2 levels/alarms/trend logs. Also the pupils, for study, will be able to not only view, their internal climate conditions, but also the outdoor ambient conditions for example – wind speed, rain, solar lux levels, and temperature levels.
Andy Baker the site facilities manager commented “having all of this ability at my fingertips is fantastic”
The Headmaster also has access via his Web enabled Handi! – For when he needs his umbrella!.
