Air Handling Units
Air handling unit (AHU) specifications include airflow capacity, fan type and motor power, electrical requirements, and physical dimensions and materials. Other key specifications are the casing’s construction, such as double-skin panels with insulation, and the inclusion of components like filters, heating/cooling coils, and humidifiers to meet specific needs for air quality, temperature, and hygiene.
Performance and components
- Airflow: Specified in units like cubic feet per minute (CFM), cubic meters per hour (𝑚3/ℎ) or liters per second (L/s).
- Fan: Type (e.g., EC plug fan), motor power (e.g., watts), and external static pressure (e.g., Pascals) are critical specifications.
- Cooling/Heating: Capacity is rated in kilowatts (kW), BTUs, or kcal/h.
- Coils: Specifications include the number of rows, columns, and fins per inch (FPI).
- Filters: Included to clean the air, with specifications for type (e.g., pre-filter, pleated filter) and size.
Construction and materials
- Casing: Double-skin construction is common, often with an outer layer of galvanized steel and an inner layer of galvanized steel or aluminum, insulated with materials like mineral wool or polyurethane foam.
- Frame: Made from aluminum or galvanized steel profiles.
- Insulation: Thermal and acoustic insulation is provided by materials like mineral wool or polyurethane foam.
- Corrosion protection: Powder-coated panels and specific ratings like C4 ensure protection against corrosion.
Electrical and controls
- Electrical: Specifications include voltage, phase, frequency (e.g., 415V/3ph), and full load amperage (FLA).
- Controls: Can be integrated and factory-fitted, including options for precise temperature control.
Design and features
- Access: Inspection doors and access panels are designed for easy access and maintenance.
- Hygienic design: Units may be designed to meet specific hygiene standards, such as VDI 6022, for applications like pharmaceutical manufacturing or cleanrooms.
- Configuration: AHUs are available in standard sizes or can be custom-built for unique requirements.