Building Commissioning

Tools & Applications

Module 4

Tools – General

Source: DreamsTime.com

CBCP® 2

CBCP_v2023.11 1
 Safety, General & IT Tools

Safety First
Use the correct Personal
Protective Equipment (PPE)
• Back protection • Hearing
• Dust masks protection (plugs
and muffs)
• Eye protection/
safety glasses • Rubber boots

• Face shield • Safety harnesses

• Fall protection • Vests

• Gloves • Work shoes

• Hardhat

Source: HSSE World

CBCP® 4

CBCP_v2023.11 2
 Safety First
Acquire the basic knowledge of safety
equipment and procedures

• Arc flash
protection
(NFPA 70e)
Source: Van Meter Inc

• Respirator

Source: ISHN

CBCP® 5

General Tools

• Toolbox and • Markers

Handbag • Stopwatch
• Flashlight • Tape measure
• Utility knife • Pocket level
• Inspection mirror • Laser levels
• Labeling machine • Channel locks
• Lock-out/tag-out • Pliers
equipment
Source: Fervi

CBCP® 6

CBCP_v2023.11 3
 General Tools
• Allen Wrenches • Socket sets
• Combination • Screw drivers
wrenches • cordless electric drill
• Pipe wrenches • Wire Brush
• Torque wrenches • Wire cutters Source: Dreamstime

• Multi-function • Ladders
screwdriver/nutdriver
set • Rain gear
• Ratchets
Source: Bosch

CBCP® 7

IT Tools
Data Loggers
Stand Alone / Wireless
• Log Temperature, Relative Humidity, Light,
Presence, Status (ON/OFF), etc…
• Weather stations log temperature, humidity,
wind speed and direction, rain, soil moisture,
etc…
• Features
• Capture dynamic data over time period,
Measure parameters at pre-programmed
time interval
• Can be battery powered
• Most have software, can be viewed on
mobile/tablets and data can be exported to
Excel in tabular and graphic formats
Source: Onset Computer Corporation

CBCP® 8

CBCP_v2023.11 4
 IT Tools
Smartphones
• Use camera to take • Use Apps for
and save screenshots initial on-site
• General observations assessment
• Nameplate readings • Distances
• Test results Orientation
• Use phone utilities • Sound level
• Light level
• Calculator
• Unit conversion
• Compass
• Quick formulas
• notes Source: ASME

CBCP® 9

Commissioning
Software

Source: ELECTRO-MATIC

CBCP® 10

10

CBCP_v2023.11 5
 Commissioning Cx Process Management Tools
Software
Building Management Systems A
B
Fault Detection and Diagnosis Software Cx
Software

C
Simulation Software D
CBCP® 11

11

Commissioning
Software
Outline
• Cx Process Management Tools
• Building Management Systems
• Fault Detection and Diagnosis Software
• Simulation Tools

CBCP® 12

12

CBCP_v2023.11 6
 Commissioning
Software
Learning Objectives
• Getting to know the categories of software tools used in building commissioning
• Understanding the purpose of each tool and its applications
• Awareness of the main available products and their distinctive features
• Discerning the benefits, the limitations and the challenges of each software
• Understanding the difference between BMS, FDs and FDDs in fault detection and
diagnosis

CBCP® 13

13

Cx Process Management Tools

14

CBCP_v2023.11 7
 Cx Process Management Tools
These are software packages specific to managing the commissioning of projects

BENEFITS OBSTACLES
• Completion of pre-commissioning checklists • Too complex and expensive to set up
• Filling out test records for recording data • Takes too long to set up; work needs to start
• Tracking and closeout of deficiencies identified right away
during testing • People won’t use the system, it’s too complex,
• Commissioning completion and progress and the work has always been done with paper
tracking and spreadsheets
• Listing O&M manuals • A generic software package couldn’t possibly
• As-built drawing records and tracking work on project’s specialized work
• Logging pictures and inspection reports • It is not allowed by IT department
Source: commissioningandstartup

CBCP® 15

15

Cx Process
Management Tools
CxAlloy
• https://www.cxalloy.com/
• Cloud based Cx project management
tool
• well-organized set of electronic or
digital documentation of field
activities
• Automated check list generation
• Cloud based issue log
• Automated Cx report generation
• Integrates with BIM
Source: cxalloy.com

CBCP® 16

16

CBCP_v2023.11 8
 Cx Process
Management Tools
CxAlloy
• COBie Compliance
• Day-by-day project task tracking
• Business Intelligence and data
visualization
• Streamlined field data capturing
• Mobile device compatible

Source: cxalloy.com

CBCP® 17

17

Cx Process
Management Tools
BlueRithm
• https://bluerithm.com/
• CUSTOM workflows, forms, and
checklists
• Functional performance tests, using
YOUR format and workflow
• Pre-functional checklists
• Design reviews, site observations &
other activities that need to track or
manage
• Live dashboards for a realtime updates
• Asset lists with custom tagging

Source: BlueRithm

CBCP® 18

18

CBCP_v2023.11 9
 Cx Process
Management Tools
BlueRithm
• Issue & punch list management
• Report automation (CLICK HERE to
download example report AND demo
video)
• Automated schedules (Gantt
charts)
• Cloud-based collaboration
• Unlimited projects
• Unlimited guest users
(subcontractors, partners,
clients, etc.)
• Import and export spreadsheets
Source: BlueRithm

CBCP® 19

19

Cx Process
Management Tools
Facility Grid
• https://facilitygrid.com/commissioning-
software/
• Also have an Operational Readiness
(OR) Solution
• Native mobile application (iOS, Android,
Windows)
• Task-based management system
tailored to project requirements
• Visible audit trail
• Multi-industry use
• Document management

Source: facilitygrid.com

CBCP® 20

20

CBCP_v2023.11 10
 Cx Process
Management Tools
Facility Grid
• Customizable environment,
workflows, and reporting
• 360⁰ visibility into the state of Cx
process for all stakeholders
• 3rd party two-way integration with
construction project management
platform Procore
• 3rd party integration with PDF
markup tools such as Bluebeam,
Adobe, iAnotate and others

Source: facilitygrid.com

CBCP® 21

21

Cx Process
Management Tools
CORS
• https://grs-cors.com/
• For all industries and projects
• Seamless integration with
operational readiness and operator
training requirements
• Fast flexible report generation
• Daily progress updates
• Full "ready to use" suite of test
sheets and generated handover
packs

Source: grs-corsy.com

CBCP® 22

22

CBCP_v2023.11 11
 Cx Process
Management Tools
Cx Planner
• https://cxplanner.com/
• Includes the tools needed to
perform a commissioning
process compliance with
ASHRAE Guideline 0, ASHRAE
Standard 202 and DS3090.
• Verifying, documenting and
testing, that the owners'
requirements are fulfilled.

Source: cxplanner.com

CBCP® 23

23

Cx Process
Management Tools
Cx Planner
• Test paradigms and
verification tools to verify
that your installations are in
compliance with the
Owner's Project
Requirements (OPR).
• Develop your own test
templates shared within
your company.
• Developing new templates is
easy, just drag and drop the
test items
Source: cxplanner.com

CBCP® 24

24

CBCP_v2023.11 12
 Cx Process
Management Tools
DNA Energy
• Web cloud based
• Well-organized set of electronic &
digital documentation per field of
activities
• Dash board progress analysis
• Automated check list generation
• Cloud based issue log
• Automated Cx report generation
• Integrates with BIM
• Available in French, English, Italian
and Spanish

Source: www.handzinternational.com

CBCP® 25

25

Cx Process
Management Tools
Other Cx Tools
• Omega 365
https://www.omega365.com/products/completion-
management

• PCMS Pro
https://www.pcmspro.com/#visit-our-system

• Orbit
https://occms.com/orbit

Source: cxplanner.com

CBCP® 26

26

CBCP_v2023.11 13
 Building Management Systems

27

Building Management
Systems
(BMS)
• Building Management Systems (BMS)
could be used to produce valuable
information for operators
• They provide alarms, especially useful
for critical functions
• They provide the data source for the
more analytical FDDs

Source: Xenius

CBCP® 28

28

CBCP_v2023.11 14
 Building Management
Systems
(BMS)
The most recognized systems
include:
• METASYS by Johnson Control
• DESIGO by Siemens
• HONEYWELL by Honeywell
• ECOSTRUXURE by Schneider Electric
• CRESTRON by Crestron
• DISTECH CONTROLS By Distech
• ENTELIWEB by Delta
• INGERSOLL RAND by Trane
• Etc.
Source: Xenius

CBCP® 29

29

Fault Detection and Diagnosis

Software

30

CBCP_v2023.11 15
 Fault Detection and Diagnosis Software
(FDDS)
• According to the U.S. DOE’s O&M Best
Practices Guide, the promised land of
proactive maintenance could result in a
reduction in maintenance costs of 30%
and a 70% to 75% elimination of system
breakdowns (a 10x return on
investment!)
• FDDs move beyond the BMS; BMS alarms
are still reactive and tend to get ignored
• Good FDDs perform an in-depth analysis
and pinpoint causes of problems, to the
point where corrective action can be
taken

Source: Veolia

CBCP® 31

31

Fault Detection and Diagnosis Software

(FDDS)
• The move towards effective proactive
Operations and Maintenance Alarm
Alarm
generation
generation and Fault
01 03 Detection

BMS FDD and

Diagnostics

Alarm
generation
and Fault
02 Detection

FD

Source: ClockWorks Analytics

CBCP® 32

32

CBCP_v2023.11 16
 Source: ClockWorks Analytics

33

33

Source: ClockWorks Analytics

34

34

CBCP_v2023.11 17
 Source: ClockWorks Analytics

35

35

Source: ClockWorks Analytics

CBCP® 36

36

CBCP_v2023.11 18
 Source: ClockWorks Analytics

37

37

Not all FDDs are created equal

Step 1 Step 2 Step 3

• Analysis Accuracy • Automated • Automated
Root Cause Quantification
Analysis of Impacts

Source: ClockWorks Analytics

CBCP® 38

38

CBCP_v2023.11 19
 Fault Detection and Diagnosis Software
(FDDS)

Listing of most known Tools Categories of faults detectable

• SkySpark • IntelliCommand • Sensor errors • Heating system
• True Analytics • Balance • Energy consumption • Cooling system
• Clockworks • Facility Analytix • Economizer & ventilation • Lighting or other
• eIQ • Pressurization issues end uses
• Kaizen
• BuildPulse • ClimaCheck • Commercial refrigeration • Equipment cycling
• Analytika • HVAC Service • Simultaneous heating & • Pump & fan
Assistant cooling systems
• Niagara Analytics 2.0
• Scheduling

Source: commissioningandstartup

39

CBCP®

39

Simulation Tools

40

CBCP_v2023.11 20
 Simulation Tools

• There are significant

opportunities to use simulation
software to support Cx process
• Such software may prove to be
useful in the following stages of
building commissioning:
• Design phase Cx
• Post-construction Cx
• On-going Cx

Sourc: eWarmest Solar

CBCP® 41

41

Simulation Tools
IES VE
• https://www.iesve.com/software
• Global building rating systems (LEED,
BREEAM, GSAS) and regulations (UK,
US, Canada, and Hong Kong)
• BIM interoperability
• Energy modelling & low energy
design
• Daylight simulation
• Comfort analysis
• Loads analysis and HVAC
• Solar analysis

Source: IES VE

CBCP® 42

42

CBCP_v2023.11 21
 Simulation Tools

eQuest by DOE2

• https://doe2.com/equest/index.html
• Free software
• Sophisticated, yet easy
• Includes an Energy Efficiency
Measures (EEM) wizard

Source: eQuest

CBCP® 43

43

Simulation Tools
EnergyPlus
• https://energyplus.net/downloads
• Free software
• Integrated, simultaneous solution of
thermal zone conditions and HVAC
• Heat balance-based solution
• Illuminance and glare calculations
• Component-based HVAC
• A large number of built-in HVAC and
lighting control strategies
• Functional Mockup Interface

Source: ResearchGate

CBCP® 44

44

CBCP_v2023.11 22
 Simulation Tools

TRACE 3D Plus
• https://view.ceros.com/bnp-
engage/trane-ips-trace-3d-plus/p/1
• Replaces Trace 700
• Models complex buildings and
systems
• Models complex systems and plants
• Cloud computation
• Data visualization and reports

Source: Trane

CBCP® 45

45

Simulation Tools
Carrier HAP
• https://www.carrier.com/commercial/en/
us/software/hvac-system-design/hourly-
analysis-program/
• Load calculations &HVAC systems
design
• Climate analysis
• Air systems analysis
• Plant equipment
• Utility rates
• Energy analysis; energy consumption
and costs comparison between
design alternatives

Source: Carrier

CBCP® 46

46

CBCP_v2023.11 23
 Simulation Tools

Design Builder
• https://designbuilder.co.uk/
• 3D modeler & Visualization
• Simulation & optimization
• Daylighting
• HVAC
• Cost
• LEED / Certification
• CFD

Source: Design Builder

CBCP® 47

47

Simulation Tools
TRNSYS
• http://www.trnsys.com/
• plugin for SketchUp™
• Central Plant Modeling
• Building Simulation (including LEED
Energy Modeling)
• Renewable Energy systems
• Thermal/Airflow Modeling
• Optimization
• Energy System Research
• Emerging Technology Assessment

Source: Trynsys

CBCP® 48

48

CBCP_v2023.11 24
 Mechanical and Plumbing
Systems Commissioning

Source: Indiamart

49

Mechanical and Plumbing

Systems Commissioning
Outline
• Requirements, Codes and Standards
• Systems and Equipment
• Building Management System (BMS)
• Testing Adjusting and Balancing (TAB)
• Measurement and Tools

CBCP® 50

50

CBCP_v2023.11 25
 Mechanical and Plumbing
Systems Commissioning
Learning Objectives
• Learning the main mechanical and plumbing • Cx fans, pumps, motors and drives
commissioning requirements
• Optimizing cooling and heating plants
• Using the Psychrometric Chart performance with Retro-Cx
• Understanding the factors affecting Occupant • Cx using BMS
comfort
• Learning TAB procedures and Tips
• Applying fluid (Air and Water) equations;
• Knowing which tools to use for the
Determining flow, head, heat transfer
measurement and testing of various
• Understanding the effects of dampers and mechanical and plumbing system
valves

CBCP® 51

51

Requirements, Codes & Standards

52

CBCP_v2023.11 26
 Requirements, Codes and Standards

Main Institutions Providing Commissioning Requirements

• ASHRAE - American Society of Heating, • AABC - Associated Air Balance Council
Refrigerating, and Air Conditioning • NEBB - National Environmental Balancing Bureau
Engineers • TABB - Testing Adjusting, and Balancing Bureau
• Various green building rating systems • SMACNA - Sheet Metal and Air Conditioning
(LEED, BREEAM, HQE, etc.) Contractors' National Association
• ANSI - American National Standards
Institute
• OSHA – Occupational Safety and Health
Administration

CBCP® 53

53

Requirements, Codes and Standards

ASHRAE Guidelines
• Guideline 0-2019 -- The Commissioning Process
• Guideline 0.2-2015 -- Commissioning Process for Existing Systems and Assemblies
• Guideline 1.1-2007 -- HVAC&R Technical Requirements for The Commissioning Process
• Guideline 1.2-2019 -- Technical Requirements for the Commissioning Process for Existing HVAC&R
Systems and Assemblies
• Guideline 1.3-2018 -- Building Operations and Maintenance Training for the HVAC&R
Commissioning Process
• Guideline 1.5-2017 -- The Commissioning Process for Smoke Control Systems
• Guideline 11-2021 -- Field Testing of HVAC Control Components

CBCP® 54

54

CBCP_v2023.11 27
 Requirements, Codes and Standards

ASHRAE/ANSI Standards
• ANSI/ASHRAE Standard 41.7-2015 (RA 2018) -- Standard Methods for Gas Flow Measurement
• ANSI/ASHRAE Standard 84-2020 -- Method of Testing Air-to-Air Heat/Energy Exchangers (ANSI
Approved)
• ANSI/ASHRAE Standard 110-2016 -- Methods Of Testing Performance Of Laboratory Fume Hoods
• Standard 111-2008 (RA 2017) -- (Measurement,) Testing, Adjusting, and Balancing of Building
HVAC Systems.
• Standard 202-2018 -- Commissioning Process for Buildings and Systems

CBCP® 55

55

Requirements, Codes and Standards

LEED, BREEAM, HQE, etc.
• LEED V4 - Fundamental Commissioning
• LEED V4 - Enhanced Commissioning
• LEED V4 - CxA (Commissioning Authority) Requirements

• BREEAM - Man (management) 04 Commissioning and handover

• HQE - Management Responsible (Responsible Management) - premier niveau de
commissionnement des installations - Niveau M2 (first level of Cx; Level M2)
• HQE - Management Responsible (Responsible Management) - commissionnement plus étendu- a
partir du niveau mm3 (more advanced Cx; starting level M3)

CBCP® 56

56

CBCP_v2023.11 28
 Requirements, Codes and Standards

AABC, NEBB
• AABC - National Standards for Total System Balance
• NEBB - Procedural Standard for Certified Testing of Cleanrooms, October 2009, Third Edition
• NEBB - Procedural Standard for Fume Hood Performance Testing, December 2016, Second Edition
• NEBB - Procedural Standard for the Measurement of Sound and Vibration, September 2015,
Second Edition
• NEBB - Procedural Standard for TAB Environmental Systems, July 1, 2019, Ninth Edition

CBCP® 57

57

Requirements, Codes and Standards

TABB/SMACNA
• SMACNA - TAB Procedural Guide
• SMACNA/ANSI - HVAC Systems Commissioning Manual
• HVAC Systems Sound and Vibration Procedural Guide
• HVAC Duct Systems Inspection Guide

CBCP® 58

58

CBCP_v2023.11 29
 Systems and Equipment

59

Helps determining the

properties of Air:
• Dry Bulb Temperature
• Wet Bulb Temperature
• Relative Humidity
• Humidity Ratio (Absolute Humidity,
Specific Humidity)
• Dew Point
• Saturation Point
• Enthalpy (heat content)
• Specific Volume
• etc.

Source: ArthurOgawa

60

60

CBCP_v2023.11 30
 Psychrometric Chart
IP units
Sea Level

Source: Parameter Generation and Control

CBCP® 61

61

Psychrometric Chart
• Helps plotting the HVAC processes • Helps determine the properties
These include: of air mixtures
o Heating
o Cooling
o Humidification
o Dehumidification

• Helpful for Design and

Troubleshooting

CBCP® 62

62

CBCP_v2023.11 31
 Psychrometric Chart
Dry Bulb Temperature Wet Bulb Temperature
• X Axis • Saturation Line:
• Vertical lines: same Td Tdb = Twb = Tdew
• A key parameter to control cooling
• Measures hot and cold
tower operation
• A key parameter for comfort and
HVAC control
• Scale of sensible heat

thermometer

psychrometer

CBCP® 63

63

Psychrometric Chart
Relative Humidity Specific or Absolute Humidity
• Saturation Line: • Y Axis
100% RH • Horizontal Line
• Draft for water vapor transfer
• It’s a scale for latent heat
• RH = x/y (by definition)
• A key parameter for comfort

Not measurable

hygrometer

CBCP® 64

64

CBCP_v2023.11 32
 Psychrometric Chart
Enthalpy Specific Volume
• Total (sensible + latent) energy • The inverse of density
content of moist air • Not field measurable
• Nearly parallel to wet bulb lines
(same enthalpy means same wet
bulb temperature)

CBCP® 65

65

Psychrometric Chart
Dew Point
• The temperature when condensate
starts appearing
• Dew point lines: Horizontal
(Same absolute humidity ratio means
same dew point temperature)
• Non-linear increase along Y axis
• T(dew) < T(wet) < T(dry)
• Critical to architectural design

CBCP® 66

66

CBCP_v2023.11 33
 Psychrometric Chart
Psychrometric Processes
Numerous digital Psychrometric charts
and calculators are available for free
download online and as Mobile Apps

Source: Autodesk Knowledge Network

CBCP® 67

67

Psychrometric Chart
Air Handling Process

CBCP® 68

68

CBCP_v2023.11 34
 Psychrometric Chart
Air Handling Process
Summer cooling

CBCP® 69

69

Psychrometric Chart
Air Handling Process
Winter heating

CBCP® 70

70

CBCP_v2023.11 35
 Occupant Comfort
Indoor Air Quality (IAQ)
Could affect health and comfort of building occupants.
Major pollutants include:
• Dust
• cigarette smoke
• carbon monoxide
• carbon dioxide
• Ozone
• Volatile organic compounds (VOCs)

CBCP® 71

71

Occupant Comfort
Indoor Environmental Quality (IEQ)
Encompasses IAQ and accounts for:
• Thermal Comfort (reference: ASHRAE
Standard 55)
o Temperature, humidity, and air motion
appropriate for the activity level, dress,
and preferences of the occupants
Source: ecolution.co.za

• Acoustics (reference: ASHRAE Handbook, HVAC Applications, Chapter 48)

o Major sources: Noise from outside the building / Noise of HVAC system, etc.
o Define maximum NC (Noise Criteria) levels and minimum STC (Sound Transmission Class)
ratings

CBCP® 72

72

CBCP_v2023.11 36
 Occupant Comfort
Indoor Environmental Quality (IEQ)
Encompasses Indoor Air Quality and
accounts for:
• Lighting / Daylighting (reference:
ASHRAE Performance Measurement
Protocols for Commercial Buildings,
2010)
o Effects that need to be explored:
 Natural Daylighting
 Electric Lighting
Source: One Green Planet
 Walls and Windows, etc.

CBCP® 73

73

Fluids
Air, Water, Steam, oil, and various refrigerants
These fluids have multiple uses in mechanical and plumbing application, such as:
• To supply end uses like water supply for direct use
• To transmit pressure such as oil (hydraulic) and air (pneumatic)
• To transfer heat such as air, water, steam and refrigerants
• In this course we will focus on air and water equations

Compressibility: Air is a compressible fluid and water is a non-compressible fluid.

CBCP® 74

74

CBCP_v2023.11 37
 Fluids
Air & Water Flow Equations
Q=AxV

• Q is flow of fluid flow in M3/s (M3 per • Q is volume of fluid flow in CFM (Cubic
second) Feet per Minute)
• A is cross-sectional area in M2 • A is cross-sectional area in FT2 (Square
• V is velocity in M/s (meter per second) Feet)
• V is velocity in FPM (Foot Per Minute)
Q=AxV
M3/s = M2 x M/s Q=AxV
CFM = FT2 x FPM
When expressed in L/s, the equation
becomes Q = (A x V) x 1000

CBCP® 75

75

Fluids
Heat Balance Equation

Heat In = Heat Out

Total Heat released from one medium is

equal to the total heat gained by another
medium

QT (water) = QT (air)
QT (steam) = QT (water)

CBCP® 76

76

CBCP_v2023.11 38
 Fluids
Heat Equations - Air Heat Equations - Water

𝑞 = 1.2𝑄∆𝑡 sensible heat 𝑞 = 4.2𝑄∆𝑡

𝑞 = 3.0𝑄∆𝑤 latent heat
q = heat, kW,
𝑞 = 1.2𝑄∆ℎ total heat Q = flow rate of water, L/s
q = heat, W ∆𝑡 = temperature difference, °K or °C
Q = flow rate of air, L/s
∆𝑡 = temperature difference, °K or °C
∆𝑤 = moisture concentration difference,
g/kg dry air
∆ℎ = enthalpy difference, kJ/kg

CBCP® 77

77

Fluids
Heat Equations - Air Heat Equations - Water

𝑞 = 1.08𝑄∆𝑡 sensible heat 𝑞 = 500𝑄∆𝑡

𝑞 = 0.68𝑄∆𝑤 latent heat
q = heat, Btu/hr
𝑞 = 4.5𝑄∆ℎ total heat Q = flow rate of water, GPM
q = heat, Btu/hr ∆𝑡 = temperature difference, °F
Q = flow rate of air, CFM
∆𝑡 = temperature difference, °F
∆𝑤 = moisture concentration difference,
grains water/lb dry air)
∆ℎ = enthalpy difference, Btu/lb

CBCP® 78

78

CBCP_v2023.11 39
 Fluids
Quiz Heat Equations - Air

Example:
How much kW of sensible heat is added to the air as it passes through the heating coil of an air
handling unit at the following condition?
• Mixed Entering Air Temperature 18°C EAT
• Leaving Air Temperature 40°C LAT
• The airflow is measured at 5,000 LPS

Solution:
q = 1.2𝑄∆𝑡
q = 1.2 x 5,000 LPS x (40-18) °C
q = 132,000 W = 132 kW

CBCP® 79

79

Fluids
Quiz Heat Equations - Air

Example:
How much Btu/hr of sensible heat is added to the air as it passes through the heating coil of an air
handling unit at the following condition?:
• Mixed Entering Air Temperature 64°F EAT
• Leaving Air Temperature 105°F LAT
• The airflow is measured at 10,000 CFM

Solution:
q = 1.08𝑄∆𝑡
q = 1.08 x 10,000 CFM x (105-64) °F
q = 442,800 Btu/hr

CBCP® 80

80

CBCP_v2023.11 40
 Fluids
Quiz Heat Equations - Water

A water flow rate of 15 LPS enters a A water flow rate of 235 GPM enters
commercial Boiler at 60 °C and a commercial Boiler at 140 °F and
leaves at 80°C. What is heating leaves at 180°F. What is heating
capacity in kW at which the boiler is capacity in Btu/hr at which the
operating? boiler is operating?

Solution: Solution:
𝑞 = 4.2𝑄∆𝑡 𝑞 = 500𝑄∆𝑡
q = 4.2 x 15 LPS x (80-60) °C q = 500 x 235 GPM x (180-140) °F
q = 1,260 kW q = 4,700,000 Btu/hr

CBCP® 81

81

Fluids
Pressure Pipe / Duct
Pressure
• Absolute pressure • Static pressure
• Gage pressure (overcomes resistance
to flow)

• Velocity pressure
(pressure associated
with the momentum
of air)

• Total pressure Ptot = Pstatic + Pvel

• Differential pressure
Pabs = Pgauge + Patm

CBCP® 82

82

CBCP_v2023.11 41
 Fluids
Quiz - Duct Pressure example
The total pressure in a duct with air The total pressure in a duct with air flowing
flowing at 4.6 M/s and a static at 905 Ft/min and a static pressure of 3 In wg
pressure of 747Pa is closest to: is closest to:

a) 750Pa a) 3.01 In wg
b) 760Pa b) 3.05 In wg
c) 1,000Pa c) 4.02 In wg
d) 2,000Pa d) 8.04 In wg

Solution: Solution:
PV = 0.6(V2) PV = (V/4005) 2
PV = 0.6(4.6)2 = 13 Pa PV = (905/4005)2 = 0.051 In wg
PT = 747 + 13 = 760 Pa PT = 3 + 0.051 = 3.051 In wg

CBCP® 83

83

Dampers & Valves

Dampers
• The DP across the damper changes as the damper is operated from closed to open
• 10% open doesn’t mean 10% flow.

Slow increase in the flow when the damper begins to open The flow increases more rapidly when the damper begins to open

CBCP® 84

84

CBCP_v2023.11 42
 Dampers & Valves
Typical Valve behavior
A Valve Kv Factor (or Flow Coefficient Cv) expresses the amount of flow at a given valve position
with a pressure loss of 1 bar
Valve Opening Characteristics &
Typical Applications
• Large increase in flow with a small
change in valve stroke.
(frequent ON-OFF service)
• Valve travel is directly proportional to
the valve stoke.
(liquid level and flow control loops)
• Equal increments of valve travel
produce an equal percentage in flow
change.
(temperature and pressure control)

CBCP® 85

85

Dampers & Valves

Typical Valve behavior
A Valve Kv Factor (or Flow Coefficient Cv when using IP units) expresses the amount of flow at a
given valve position with a pressure loss of 1 bar (1 PSI when using IP units)

In SI units In IP units

Q = Kv . √(ΔP/SG) Q = Cv . √(ΔP/SG)
Where Where
Q is the flow rate (M3/h) Q is the flow rate (GPM)
Kv is the flow factor Cv is the flow coefficient
ΔP is the pressure drop in bars ΔP is the pressure drop in PSI
SG is the specific gravity (for water = 1) SG is the specific gravity (for water = 1)

CBCP® 86

86

CBCP_v2023.11 43
 Dampers & Valves
Typical Valve behavior
SI Question:
The flow factor of a valve Kv = 15
What is the flow rate in M3 /h across this valve, for a pressure difference of 0.15 bar across the
valve?

Q = Kv . √(ΔP/SG) = 15 . √(0.15) = 5.81 M3 /h

IP Question:
The flow coefficient of a valve Cv = 17.3
What is the flow rate in GPM across this valve, for a pressure difference of 2.17 PSI across the valve?

Q = Cv . √(ΔP/SG) = 17.3 . √(2.17) = 25.5 GPM

CBCP® 87

87

Dampers & Valves

Some valve categories
Two-position V/S Three-position Valves (could be ON-OFF or Modulating control)

Manual V/S Automatic valve

Pressure dependent (Valve flow is dependent of valve pressure drop ΔP)

V/S
Pressure independent (Valve flow is independent of valve pressure drop ΔP)

CBCP® 88

88

CBCP_v2023.11 44
 Balanced Distribution piping
Direct Return Piping vs Reverse
Return Piping

• Direct return:
• 1st supplied, 1st returned
• Unbalanced distribution

• Reverse Return
• 1st supplied, last returned
• Self-balanced distribution

Source: ASHRAE Handbook – HVAC Systems & Equipment

CBCP® 89

89

Fans & Pumps

Main Fan Types

• Axial

• Centrifugal
Vane axial Tube axial Wall propeller

Centrifugal SWSI Inline centrifugal Centrifugal Centrifugal

Roof extract Blower
Source: Aerovent

CBCP® 90

90

CBCP_v2023.11 45
 Fans & Pumps
Direct Driven or Belt Driven Fans Impeller type

Belt Driven

Direct Driven

Source: Aerovent

CBCP® 91

91

Fans & Pumps

System Effect on Fans
It consists of fan de-rating due to poor connections at or near the fan discharge or inlet

Outlet Connections Inlet Connections

Source: Ashrae guidelines

CBCP® 92

92

CBCP_v2023.11 46
 Fans & Pumps
Main Pump Types
• Centrifugal (most commonly used)
Medium/high capacity
Low/medium pressure

• Positive displacement
Rotary
Low capacity
Low/medium pressure
Reciprocating
Low capacity
High pressure
Source: worldpress.com

CBCP® 93

93

Fans and Pumps

Fan Curves Pump Curves

Source: CIBSE Source: encyclopedia.com

CBCP® 94

94

CBCP_v2023.11 47
 Fans and Pumps
Pump Curves
• Can a pump be used to measure
flowrate?
(1) 40 m (2) 15cm
1. Read the shut-off (with the discharge
valve open) (3) 35 m

2. Determine the impeller size

3. Read the operating head (with the
discharge valve open)
4. Read the corresponding flow
• Can the power consumption be used to
determine flowrate? (4) 32 m3/h

Source: CIBSE Source: encyclopedia.com

CBCP® 95

95

Fans and Pumps

Pump Curves
• Can a pump be used to measure
flowrate? ft
(1) 131 ft (2) 6 in
1. Read the shut-off (with the discharge
valve open) (3) 115 ft

2. Determine the impeller size

3. Read the operating head (with the
discharge valve open)
4. Read the corresponding flow
• Can the power consumption be used to
determine flowrate? (4) 185 gpm

(gpm)

Source: CIBSE Source: encyclopedia.com

CBCP® 96

96

CBCP_v2023.11 48
 Fans and Pumps
Affinity laws

𝑄 𝑁 𝑄 𝐷
= =
𝑄 𝑁 𝑄 𝐷

ℎ 𝑁
=
ℎ 𝑁

𝑊 𝑁
=
𝑊 𝑁

N = speed; Q = volumetric flow rate; h = head; W= shaft power; D= impeller Diameter

Source: Panelshop.com

CBCP® 97

97

Fans and Pumps

Affinity Laws

Question:

SI: A 1,750 rpm pump produces 13 m of head at a flow rate of 30 m3/h. The system requirements
change such that a flow rate of 23 m3/h is now required.

IP: A 1,750 rpm pump produces 43 ft of head at a flow rate of 132 gpm. The system requirements
change such that a flow rate of 101 gpm is now required.

What are the new rpm, Head, and theoretical power consumption reduction?

Source: CIBSE Source: encyclopedia.com

CBCP® 98

98

CBCP_v2023.11 49
 Fans and Pumps
Affinity Laws
Answer:
• New RPM = 𝑁 = 𝑁 ( ) = 1,750 × (23/30) = 1,339 rpm

• New Head = ℎ =ℎ = 13( ) =7.6m

• New Power = 𝑊 =𝑊 = 0.45 so power reduction is 55%

• New RPM = 𝑁 = 𝑁 ( ) = 1,750 × (101/132) = 1,346 rpm

• New Head = ℎ =ℎ = 43( ) =25.2 ft

• New Power = 𝑊 =𝑊 = 0.45 so power reduction is 55%

Source: CIBSE

CBCP® 99

99

Fans and Pumps

Pump Cavitation Pump Cavitation occurs when the available
system Net Positive Suction Head (NPSHA) is
lower than the Pump’s required Net Positive
Suction Head (NPSHR)

This results in air entrainment into the pump

and into the system, leading to
• water hammer in the system
• impeller damage through pitting and
cavitation

Solutions:
• May need to change piping configuration
or pump size/types
• Don’t just keep rebuilding motors or
Source: fluidhandlingpro.com replacing/repairing pumps

CBCP® 100

100

CBCP_v2023.11 50
 Fans and Pumps
Air Filters Main Characteristics:

Efficiency: effectiveness of dust removal

process, affected by size of particle, or test
methods for various sizes of particles.
Pressure Drop: affected by air velocity or face
velocity, as well as amount of dust held. (dust
holding capacity, and initial pressure drop).
Source: facilitymanagement.com Service Life: affected by final pressure drop
• Air filtration involves removal of airborne and maximum dust holding capacity.
particles present in outdoor air MERV Rating: Minimum Efficiency Reporting
Value (ASHRAE Rating)

CBCP® 101

101

Fans and Pumps

Air Filters

High-efficiency filters: Some Considerations:

• HEPA (High-Efficiency Particulate • The ΔP across a filter affects energy consumption

Air) filters have a DOP (Dispersed
Oil Particulate) efficiency of • Installing 2 filters in series does not improve their
99.97% for dust particles >= 0.3 efficiency to collect submicron-sized atmospheric dust.
μm in diameter.
• HEPA and ULPA filters must be protected by low and
• ULPA (Ultra Low-Penetration Air) medium-efficiency pre-filters to extend their service life.
filters have a DOP efficiency of
99.999% for dust particles >= • A proper maintenance program for washing/replacing
0.12 μm. filters results in system improvement and energy savings

CBCP® 102

102

CBCP_v2023.11 51
 Motors
Efficiency
• National Electrical Manufacturers Association (NEMA) for North American market
• The International Electrotechnical Commission (IEC) for the rest of the world

Source: NEMA

CBCP® 103

103

Motors
Economic considerations
• A heavily used motor’s annual electricity cost way more than it’s initial purchase cost.

• Consider a Large pump/motor of 150 kW operating all the time, on duty and stand-by basis
• It runs 8,760 /2 = 4,380 hours per year
• It has an initial cost of $20,000
• @ 10¢/kWh, its annual energy cost is 150 x 4,380 x 0.1 = $65,700, which is 3.3 times of its
initial cost;
• Over a 10-year period, energy cost would be $657,000, which is more than 33 times of
the initial cost.

• As a conclusion: when it comes to motors, aim for the most appropriate selection and the
best possible efficiency.

Source: NEMA

CBCP® 104

104

CBCP_v2023.11 52
 Drives
Fan Drives
• Belt driven Fan Drive Equation
• Fixed or adjustable pitch
OD motor sheave x RPM motor = OD fan pulley x RPM fan

Source: dreamstime.com

CBCP® 105

105

Drives
Fan Drives
• Adjustable Sheave • Multiple variable pitch pulley

Source: USA Roller Chain Source: Regal Rexnold

CBCP® 106

106

CBCP_v2023.11 53
 Drives
Fan Drives
• Example
Suppose we have a 5.5-in adjustable motor sheave, and the fan is currently delivering 2,400 L/S
(5,081 CFM) on a 15-ton system that requires 2,800 L/S (5,927 CFM)
What would be the required motor sheave?

• Solution
𝑄 𝐷
=
𝑄 𝐷

𝟐𝟖𝟎𝟎
So 𝐷𝟐 = 𝐷 x = 5.5 x = 6.42 in
𝟐𝟒𝟎𝟎

Source: USA Roller Chain Source: Regal Rexnold

CBCP® 107

107

Drives
Flow Control & resulting energy Savings

Flow can be controlled by different means, among which:

• Varying the system pressure

o Outlet dampers control
o Inlet vanes control

• Hydraulic/Eddy Current coupling

• Variable Speed Drive control (the most energy efficient)

Remember the affinity laws. Theoretical energy saving
to the cube; Actual energy saving to the power of 2.5.

Source: FocusOnDrives

CBCP® 108

108

CBCP_v2023.11 54
 Heat Exchange Coils
Types

• DX evaporator coil
• DX condenser coil
• Chilled water coil
• Hot water coil

Source: FocusOnDrives

CBCP® 109

109

Heat Exchange Coils

DX Coil Performance 120%

100%

80%
% capacity

• Performance parameters 60%

o Capacity, EER, SAT, etc.. 40%

20%

0%
0% 20% 40% 60% 80% 100% 120%
• Influencing factors % airflow

o Charge
65 12
o Airflow 10
60

8
55
SAT (F)

EER

6
50
4

45 2

40 0
0% 20% 40% 60% 80% 100% 120% 0% 20% 40% 60% 80% 100% 120%

% airflow % airflow

CBCP® 110

110

CBCP_v2023.11 55
 Heat Exchange Coils
Chilled Water Coil Performance
• 50% flow provides 80% cooling
load.
• Performance parameters:
o SHR (Sensible Heat Ratio)
o Chilled water delta T
• Influencing factors:
o ChWST (Chilled Water
Supply Temp.)
o SAT (Supply Air Temp.) set
point

CBCP® 111

111

Chiller Plant RCx Measures

Evaluate chiller plant performance
• Reduce scale or fouling
• Purge air from condenser
• Maintain adequate condenser water
flow
• Measure ChW flow rate
• Measure ChW supply and return
temperatures
• Measure chiller electricity
consumption (kW)
• Calculate chiller performance (kW/ton
or COP) over entire operation range

CBCP® 112

112

CBCP_v2023.11 56
 Chiller Plant RCx Measures
Optimize chiller plant performance
• Compare chiller performance against
manufacturer data
o Load range of highest efficiency
o COP of the chiller

• Revisit and optimize the plant control

sequence of operation (load and
unloading of chillers) to have chiller
work in the high efficiency load range

CBCP® 113

113

Chiller Plant RCx Measures

Optimize chiller plant performance
• Effect of ChWT (Chilled Water Temperature) on Chiller Efficiency (COP or kW/Ton)
• Optimize the ChWT via a dynamic reset algorithm, to optimize energy use of chillers, pumps and
air handling equipment

Source: AHI Carrier

CBCP® 114

114

CBCP_v2023.11 57
 Chiller Plant RCx Measures
Optimize chiller plant performance
• Effect of CWET (Condenser Water Entering
Temperature) on Chiller Efficiency (COP or
kW/Ton)
o Approximately 1 - 1.5% power reduction
for each degree decreased

CBCP® 115

115

Chiller Plant RCx Measures

Optimize chiller plant performance

• Inspect and maintain towers

adequately, as they can lose
appreciable performance as soon as
they are started up

• Balance water distribution to the

cooling towers and within the towers

• Maximize the Cycles Of

Concentration (COC) to economize on
water use, by optimizing water
treatment

Source: Lebanese American University

CBCP® 116

116

CBCP_v2023.11 58
 Chiller Plant RCx Measures
Optimize chiller plant performance
• Effect of CEWT (Condenser Entering Water Temperature) on Plant Efficiency (COP or kW/Ton)

• Optimize the CEWT via a dynamic reset algorithm, to optimize energy use of chillers and cooling
towers

• Also Consider differential

pressure dynamic set point on
secondary pumps with VSD

• Consider the number of

operating pumps to achieve
optimal performance

Source: AHI Carrier

CBCP® 117

117

Heating Plant RCx Measures

Optimize heating plant performance
• Tune-up boilers (improving combustion
efficiency)

• Monitor water blow down rate

• Reduce steam pressure if not needed

• Optimize boiler operating sequence

Source: Lebanese American University

CBCP® 118

118

CBCP_v2023.11 59
 Heating Plant RCx Measures
Optimize heating plant performance – Rules of Thumb

• Rule 1: Effective boiler load management techniques, such as operating on appropriate

(high/medium/low) fire settings or installing smaller boilers, can save over 7% of a typical
facility’s total energy use with an average simple payback of less than 2 years.

• Rule 2: An upgraded boiler maintenance program including optimizing air-to-fuel ratio, burner
maintenance, and tube cleaning, can save about 2% of a facility’s total energy use with an
average simple payback of 5 months.

• Rule 3: A 3% decrease in flue gas O2 typically produces boiler fuel savings of 2%.

CBCP® 119

119

All air Air-Conditioning Distribution

Constant Air Volume (CAV)
• Old technology
o ASHRAE 90.1 proposes VFD on any
motor size above 5.6 kWp (7.5 hp)
o They represent a retrofit opportunity
for energy conservation
• Conventional control
o Modulate cooling/heating coil in
sequence to maintain the space air
temperature
• Challenges
o Excessive fan power consumption
o Humidity control sequence potentially
causes unnecessary simultaneous
heating and cooling

Source: The Severn group

CBCP® 120

120

CBCP_v2023.11 60
 All air Air-Conditioning Distribution
Variable Air Volume (VAV)
• Reduced Air Flow
• Energy Conservation
• Challenges
• Ensuring needed ventilation rates
• Individual zone comfort

Source: The Severn group

CBCP® 121

121

All air Air-Conditioning Distribution

VAV v/s CAV energy savings
• Sample energy conservation study

Source: ScienceDirect.com

CBCP® 122

122

CBCP_v2023.11 61
 All air Air-Conditioning Distribution
Failure
• Dampers
o Could fail due to corrosion and degradation that cause dampers or their actuators not to
function properly
• Thermostats / Sensors / Actuators
o Failure affects proper system control and operation
• Leakage
o Can have a significant impact on the energy consumed
o Duct air leakage is not easily fixable as not usually accessible
o Leakage from AHU cabinet can be sealed
• Automated fault detection and diagnostics (AFDD) programs could be helpful to determine
cause of failure

Source: ScienceDirect.com

CBCP® 123

123

Building Management System

(BMS)

124

CBCP_v2023.11 62
 Building Management System (BMS)
May also be known as Building Automation Systems (BAS), Building Management
And Control System (BMCS), Building Energy Management System (BEMS), Energy
Management System (EMS), or EMCS, PAS, depending on its focus

Why
• Monitors and controls electrical and mechanical services, such
as HVAC and lighting
• Can be extensive and include conveying systems, security,
access control, and safety systems, etc. (Integrated)
• A poorly commissioned (or without Cx/RCx) BMS system will
negatively impact all systems it controls
• Operators tend to override sequences and parameters the way
they see fit; this might lead to tremendous waste of energy
and resources, uncomfortable conditions and costly operation.
Source: BMSintegrator

CBCP® 125

125

Building Management System (BMS)

Design Phase
• Sensor type, location (T, P, CO2, Flow, etc..)
• Detailed control sequence documentation
• Energy management capacity
• Metering and monitoring
• Front-end and graphics
• System remote access, firewall, and access levels

Source: BMSintegrator

CBCP® 126

126

CBCP_v2023.11 63
 Building Management System (BMS)
Construction Acceptance Phase
• Point-by-point verification (soft points and physical points)
• Sequence of operation and controls scheme verification
• Documentation (as-builts) and O&M manual
• Front-end and graphics
• Training

CBCP® 127

127

Building Management System (BMS)

O&M Phase
• Scheduled sensor calibration
• Preventive maintenance on control components
• Maintenance/update of design drawings and documentation
• Don’t simply acknowledge alarms and do nothing about them, and
don’t wait until too many points are in operator (manual override)
mode

CBCP® 128

128

CBCP_v2023.11 64
 Testing Adjusting and Balancing
(TAB) – Cx/RCx Verification

129

Testing Adjusting and Balancing (TAB)

Basics

• HVAC Testing, Adjusting and Balancing (TAB) are the three major steps used to achieve
proper operation of HVAC (heating, ventilation, and air conditioning) systems

• the TAB specialist:

• Performs air and hydronic tests and measurements on the HVAC systems
• adjusts the flows as required to achieve optimum performance of the building
environmental equipment
• Balances the systems based on the design flow values required by the Mechanical Engineer
for the project
• Commissioning on the other hand is a quality control process of assuring that all components
of a facility, including HVAC systems are designed, installed, tested, operated, and maintained
according to the requirements of the owner or client. This includes the review and oversight of
the TAB activities.
Source: Wikepedia

CBCP® 130

130

CBCP_v2023.11 65
 Testing Adjusting and Balancing (TAB)
Basics
• TAB & CxA
• The CxA must be well versed with the TAB procedures, knowledge and skills
• It Must be able to review TAB reports and identify related problems

• The main agencies certifying TAB professionals include:

• Associated Air Balance Council (AABC)
• National Environmental Balancing Bureau (NEBB)
• Testing Adjusting, and Balancing Bureau (TABB)

CBCP® 131

131

Testing Adjusting and Balancing (TAB)

Cx/RCx Verification Basics
• TAB Project considerations
• Is the TAB Contractor specified to be a certified and independent third party?
• Are the TAB general and specific procedures specified?
• Are the TAB report format and scope well defined?
• Is the percentage of witnessing, review and verification by the CxA clear and specified?
• Is differed testing accounted for?

• AABC, NEBB & TABB provide sample specs for TAB work

CBCP® 132

132

CBCP_v2023.11 66
 Testing Adjusting and Balancing (TAB)
General Procedures
• Cut insulation, ducts, pipes, and equipment cabinets for installation
of test holes and probes to the extent necessary.
• After testing and balancing, install and join new insulation that
matches removed materials. Restore insulation, coverings, vapor
barrier, and finish.
• Mark equipment and balancing devices with suitable, permanent
identification material to show final settings.

CBCP® 133

133

Testing Adjusting and Balancing (TAB)

Specific TAB Procedures
• Procedures for balancing air systems • Procedures for Chillers
• Procedures for Constant Air Volume
systems • Procedures for AHUs and FCUs
• Procedures for Variable Air Volume
systems • Procedure for Cooling Towers

• Procedures for balancing hydronic systems • Procedures for Heat Exchangers

• Procedures for Constant flow Hydronic
systems • Procedures for Boilers
• Procedures for Variable flow Hydronic
systems • Procedures for Steam systems
• Procedures for Primary-Secondary
Hydronic Systems • Procedures for Motors, etc...

CBCP® 134

134

CBCP_v2023.11 67
 Testing Adjusting and Balancing (TAB)
Cx/RCx Verification
Measurement Tips
• General
• Choose appropriate testing method and instrument suitable to the task purpose

• Air side – indoor conditions

• Measure temperature at right level and right place
• Avoid proximity to heat-generating equipment such as printers
• avoid direct sun rays
• Avoid direct supply from diffusers
• Avoid heat pockets and air stratifications

CBCP® 135

135

Testing Adjusting and Balancing (TAB)

Cx/RCx Verification
Measurement Tips
• Air side – outdoor conditions:
• Take measurement in outside air intake duct if possible
• Avoid direct and indirect solar radiation if measurement must be performed
outside, such as direct sunshine or a big hot concrete wall nearby
• Stay away from nearby moisture sources, such as cooling towers
• Take measurement in an open area to avoid a corner that is too close to the
building
• Place data loggers in the same positions/locations when calibrating BMS/BAS
sensors

CBCP® 136

136

CBCP_v2023.11 68
 Testing Adjusting and Balancing (TAB)
Cx/RCx Verification
Measurement Tips
• Air side – temperature:
• Hot and cold air temperatures:
• Take measurement as far from coils as possible;
• Take reading across whole duct to get a good average.
• Pre-heating air:
• Hot water return could be lower than room temperature;
• Take readings across whole coil section.
• Measure at diffusers:
• Not recommended
• Insert the temperature sensor into the flexible duct connecting the
metal duct to the terminal box;
• Use IR Thermometer for an indicative readings only.

CBCP® 137

137

Testing Adjusting and Balancing (TAB)

Cx/RCx Verification
Measurement Tips
• Air side – pressure:
• Cross section of the tip of the tubing needs to be perpendicular to the direction of the air
flow to get true static pressure.
• Use existing TAB holes, if available.

• Air side – traverse:

• For accuracy, take multiple readings across a traverse plane, and then average them
• Respect the minimum straight
run requirements to avoid
turbulence

Source: Archnews.com

CBCP® 138

138

CBCP_v2023.11 69
 Testing Adjusting and Balancing (TAB)
Cx/RCx Verification
Measurement Tips
• Water side - Temperature
• Indirect measurement:
• Measure pipe surface temperature using contact thermocouple;
• Measure pipe surface temperature under insulation.
• Direct measurement:
• Insert sensor into the pipeline through Pete’s plug;
• Release water from water hose and measure the water temperature.
• Water side - Pressure
• Use the same gauge
• Do not trust existing gauges
• Make height correction
• Fill the hose with water by flushing out air bubbles

CBCP® 139

139

Testing Adjusting and Balancing (TAB)

Cx/RCx Verification
Measurement Tips
• Water side – Flow rate
• Avoid putting sensor on the top or bottom of the pipe
• Avoid measuring downward flow
• Clean the pipe surface to have good contact
• If high temperature application, check sensor temperature rating to avoid damage to
equipment
• Ensure correct liquid and pipe parameters

• Steam
• Avoid direct contact or measurement of steam pipe for safety reasons
• Use gauges and IR remote sensors

CBCP® 140

140

CBCP_v2023.11 70
 Measurement and Tools

141

Specialized Tools
Calibration

• Differential pressure calibration

• Temperature calibration
• Humidity calibration

Source: Testo

CBCP® 142

142

CBCP_v2023.11 71
 Specialized Tools
Analyzers
• Combustion analyzer
microcomputers
• (typically, O2, CO2, CO, excess air;
stack temperature rise)
• Draft
• combustion efficiency
• Multi-fuel selection
• Gas Analyzer – engines and
turbines
• CO, NOx (NO, NO2), H2S, CH
• Very low CO & NO2

Source: Testo

CBCP® 143

143

Specialized Tools
Leak Detection

• Refrigerant leak detector

• Ultrasonic leak detectors

• Compressed Air or Steam
• Basic/tunable acoustic
receivers

Source: Testo Source: Fluke

CBCP® 144

144

CBCP_v2023.11 72
 Specialized Tools
Vibration & Misalignment

• Overall vibration
• Bearings vibration, pump & motor
misalignment, unbalance, and
looseness

Source: Fluke

CBCP® 145

145

Specialized Tools
Rotational Speed

• Mechanical Tachometers (Contact)

• Laser Tachometers (No contact)
• Stroboscopes (No contact)

Source: Testo

CBCP® 146

146

CBCP_v2023.11 73
 Specialized Tools
Sound

• Sound level meter

• For indoor
• For sites
• With or without data
logging
• Varying precision

Source: PCE

CBCP® 147

147

TAB/Cx/RCx Tools
Air flow

• Vane anemometer
• Volume flow hood
• Air flow velocity matrix
• Pitot tubes

Source: Testo

CBCP® 148

148

CBCP_v2023.11 74
 TAB/Cx/RCx Tools
Air pressure

• Differential pressure
meters & probes
• Magnehelic pressure
gauges

Source: Testo

CBCP® 149

149

TAB/Cx/RCx Tools
Air tightness & Infiltration

• duct air leakage tester

• Thermal anemometer
• Blower door tester
Source: Oriflow

• Smoke stick/pencil

Source: Research Gate

Source: Retrotec Source: Smoke Pencil ONE

CBCP® 150

150

CBCP_v2023.11 75
 TAB/Cx/RCx Tools
Air humidity

• Hygrometers
(Relative Humidity,
Dew point)
• Temperature/
Humidity Sensors

Source: Testo

Source: Testo

CBCP® 151

151

TAB/Cx/RCx Tools
Air Quality

• Carbon Dioxide CO2

• Carbon Monoxide CO
• Volatile Organic
Source: Testo
Compounds (VOC) Source: Siemens

CBCP® 152

152

CBCP_v2023.11 76
 TAB/Cx/RCx Tools
Air – Multipurpose

• Multipurpose Air data

meter (typically includes
CO2, Temperature, relative
humidity, dew point, air
velocity, volumetric flow
and air pressure)

Source: Testo

CBCP® 153

153

TAB/Cx/RCx Tools
Air, Water and Surface Temperature

• Air temperature
measuring devices
• Surface temperature
measurement
• Handheld infrared
temperature gun
• Thermal imaging
camera
Source: Fluke Source: Testo

CBCP® 154

154

CBCP_v2023.11 77
 TAB/Cx/RCx Tools
Water Flow & Energy Meters

• Hydro data meter

• Clamp on meter
• Btu meter Source: Kamstrup Source: Omega

Source: Kamstrup Source: Itron

CBCP® 155

155

TAB/Cx/RCx Tools
Water Pressure

• Pressure gauge/manometer
• Differential pressure
• Absolute pressure
Source: Testo Source: Wika

CBCP® 156

156

CBCP_v2023.11 78
 Electrical Systems Commissioning

Source: ASC-Fire.com

157

157

Electrical Systems Commissioning

Outline
• Requirements, Codes and Standards
• Systems and Equipment
• Measurement and Tools

CBCP® 158

158

CBCP_v2023.11 79
 Electrical Systems Commissioning
Learning Objectives
• Learning the main electrical commissioning requirements
• Understanding the power system studies and their purpose
• Short Circuit Study
• Coordination Study
• Arc Flash Hazard Analysis
• Knowing the principle electrical tests, the Cx Process, main Cx activities and code requirements
for each
• Cables & equipment
• Switchgears & breakers
• Motors and VFDs
• Lighting
• Knowing which tools to use for the measurement and testing of various electrical system

CBCP® 159

159

Requirements, Codes and

Standards

160

CBCP_v2023.11 80
 Requirements, Codes and Standards
Main Institutions Providing Commissioning Requirements
• IEC - International Electro-technical • NETA - InterNational Electrical Testing Association
Commission • UL – Underwriters Laboratories
• NEC - National Electrical Code • ANSI - American National Standards Institute
• NFPA - National Fire protection • NEMA - National Electrical Manufacturers
Association Association
• OSHA – Occupational Safety and Health
• IEEE - Institute of Electrical & Electronic
Engineers Administration
• Various green building rating systems (LEED,
BREEAM, and HQE, etc.)

CBCP® 161

161

Requirements, Codes and Standards

IEC
• IEC 60034 Rotating Electrical Machines
• IEC 60060 High-voltage test techniques
• IEC 60229, 60230 , 60331 60332, 60885, 62153 etc. various Electrical tests for electric, fiber and
communication cables
• IEC 60233 Tests on Hollow Insulators for use in Electrical Equipment (Withdrawn)
• IEC 60270 High-voltage test techniques – Partial discharge measurements
• IEC 60345 Method of test for electrical resistance and resistivity of insulating materials at
elevated temperatures

CBCP® 162

162

CBCP_v2023.11 81
 Requirements, Codes and Standards
IEC
• IEC 60364 Electrical Installations for Buildings
• IEC 60502 construction, dimensions and test requirements of power cables with extruded solid
insulation
• IEC 60512 Connectors for electronic equipment – Tests and measurements
• IEC 61439 standard for low-voltage switchgear and controlgear assemblies
• IEC 61189 Test methods for electrical materials, interconnection structures and assemblies
• IEC 61800 Adjustable speed electrical power drive systems
• IEC 61853 Photovoltaic (PV) module performance testing and energy rating

CBCP® 163

163

Requirements, Codes and Standards

IEC
• IEC 62271-200 High-voltage switchgear and controlgear
• IEC 62305-3 Lightning Protection Standard
• IEC 62446 Grid connected photovoltaic systems – Minimum requirements for system
documentation, commissioning tests and inspection
• IEC 62150 Fiber optic active components and devices – Test and measurement procedures

CBCP® 164

164

CBCP_v2023.11 82
 Requirements, Codes and Standards
NEC performance testing
• NEC 230-95C Ground fault protection systems
• NEC 250-56 Grounding and boning
• NEC 305-6 receptacle outlets
• 700-4 Emergency systems – Acceptance testing
• 701-5 Legally required standby systems – Acceptance testing

CBCP® 165

165

Requirements, Codes and Standards

NFPA Code
• NFPA 70E – Electrical Safety in workplace
• NFPA 72 – Fire Alarm Code
• NFPA 101 – Life Safety Code
• NFPA 704 – Hazardous Materials
• NFPA 780 – Lightning Protection

CBCP® 166

166

CBCP_v2023.11 83
 Requirements, Codes and Standards
IEEE
• IEEE 450 – Recommended Practice for Maintenance, Testing and Replacement of Vented Lead
Acid Batteries for Stationary Applications
• IEEE 1188 – Recommended Practice for Maintenance, Testing and Replacement of Valve
Regulated Lead Acid Batteries for Stationary Applications
• IEEE 1584 – Guide for performing of Arc-Flash Hazard Calculations

CBCP® 167

167

Requirements, Codes and Standards

NETA
• ATS - Acceptance Testing Specifications • NETA 7.1 Switchgear and Switchboard
Assemblies
• MTS - Maintenance Testing Specifications
• ETT - Certification of Electrical Testing • NETA 7.13 Grounding Systems
Technicians • NETA 7.3 Cables
• ECS - Electrical Commissioning Specifications • NETA 7.6 Circuit Breakers
• NETA 7.15 Rotating Machinery
• NETA 7.17 Adjustable Speed Drive Systems

CBCP® 168

168

CBCP_v2023.11 84
 Requirements, Codes and Standards
ANSI, NEMA
• ANSI C37.50 – Low-Voltage AC Power Circuit Breakers Used in Enclosures—Test Procedures
• NEMA AB4 – Guidelines for Inspection and Preventive Maintenance of Molded Case Circuit
Breakers Used in Commercial and Industrial Applications
• NETA ATS – Acceptance Testing Specifications for Electrical Power Distribution Equipment and
Systems

CBCP® 169

169

Systems and Equipment

170

CBCP_v2023.11 85
 General Electrical Testing Program

1. Field inspection and installation checks 6. Energized functional testing of control

circuits
2. De-energized component testing
7. Megger testing of power circuits
3. Instrument verification and relay
operation and calibration 8. Testing of power circuits phasing
4. Visual checks 9. Energizing of equipment
5. Continuity checking of control circuits 10. Service testing

CBCP® 171

171

Power System Studies

Short Circuit Study

• Determines the magnitude of the currents that flow

during an electrical fault.
• Calculated values are compared against the
equipment to ensure the power system is safely
protected.
• Done using computer software where short-circuit
currents at various points in the system are calculated
• Results are compared with equipment ratings;
Problem areas are flagged, and corrective
recommendations issued.

Source: ResearchGate

CBCP® 172

172

CBCP_v2023.11 86
 Power System Studies
Coordination Study
• Determines the optimum characteristics, ratings and settings
of the power system protective devices
• Is based on Short Circuit Study as a prerequisite
• Data collected on present settings and ratings of all protective
devices
• Data from manufacturer’s “time-current curves” for each protective
device are introduced
• Done using computer software to determine the optimum settings
that will provide the best protection for the systems
• Obtained settings and ratings of each protective device are
compared with present field settings and ratings. A detailed report
with recommendations is published.

Source: ETAP

CBCP® 173

173

Power System Studies

Arc Flash Hazard Analysis
• Establishes safety protocol for qualified
electrical personnel required to work on
electrical equipment and circuit parts that
cannot be placed in an electrically safe work
condition.
• Short Circuit Study is a prerequisite
• Coordination Study is a prerequisite
• Done using computer software to determine the
• Personnel Protective Equipment (PPE)
requirements
• Arc Flash Labels including nominal voltage
and arc flash boundary
Source: Hallam

CBCP® 174

174

CBCP_v2023.11 87
 Power System Studies
Load-Flow Studies Harmonic-Analysis Studies
• Determine active and reactive power, voltage, • Determine the impact of nonlinear loads and
current, and power factor throughout the their associated harmonic contributions on
electrical system. Provide an analysis of all the voltage and currents throughout the
possible operating scenarios. electrical system.

Stability Studies
• Determine the ability of the electrical
system’s synchronous machines to remain in
step with one another following a
disturbance.

CBCP® 175

175

Cable Insulation Resistance

Why? Codes
• Insulation can be nicked or scraped from • IEC 60502, etc. and NETA 3
individual conductors when pulled through
raceways.
• Insulation can also be damaged when
exposed to moisture, excessive heat, or
certain chemicals.
• An insulation resistance test must be
performed after installation to verify
insulation integrity.

Source:Dreamstime

CBCP® 176

176

CBCP_v2023.11 88
 Cable Insulation Resistance
Testing Procedure

1. Inspect for physical damage

2. Inspect for proper grounding, support and
termination
3. Verify that neutrals and grounds are properly
terminated
4. Perform test on each conductor in the cable
5. Apply 1000 VDC for 1 min to low-voltage
cables (1 kV or less) (Megger test)
6. More steps at higher voltage to medium-
voltage cables
7. Correct readings to 20 deg C (insulation
decreases as temp. increases)

Source:Megger

CBCP® 177

177

Earthing (Grounding)
What is it? Codes
• A safety measure devised to prevent people • IEC/BS EN 62305-3 and NEC NETA 7.13
from getting shocked if the insulation inside
electrical devices fails.
• It consists in transferring the immediate
discharge of the electrical energy directly to the
Earth (being a good conductor) with the help of
the low-resistance wire.

CBCP® 178

178

CBCP_v2023.11 89
 Earthing (Grounding)
Core Cx activities

1. Visual Inspection
2. Continuity testing
3. Earth resistivity testing
4. Injection testing
• Earth potential rise (EPR) measurement
• Current distribution measurement
5. Transfer, touch and step voltage testing
6. Things to account for
• Telecommunication coordination
• Pipeline interference/coordination

Source: EEP / Power System Earthing Guide—part 1: management principles by ENA / Fluke

CBCP® 179

179

LV Switchgears and Circuit Breakers

Commissioning Process Codes
• The commissioning process for switchgear and • IEC 61439-1, IEC 61439-2 and IEC 61439-3
circuit breakers involves evaluations, and NETA 7.1 NETA 7.6
verifications, and checks that determine
whether the proper switchgear and circuit
breaker specifications and installation
requirements are met.

• Tests are also performed that determine

whether the electric power distribution system
will operate properly and safely after installation

Source: EEP / Power System Earthing Guide—part 1: management principles by ENA / Fluke

CBCP® 180

180

CBCP_v2023.11 90
 LV Switchgears and Circuit Breakers
Core activities

1. Visual Inspection 2. Mechanical Inspection

• Suitability • Bolt Torque
• Physical damage • Door Operation
• Alignment • Rack In – Rack Out
• Cleanliness • Open/Close Operation
• Arc chute assembly
3. Electrical inspection
• Contacts
• Insulation
• Mechanism/Linkage • Continuity of protective
• Lubrication circuits
• Inspection and final
check
Source: EEP

CBCP® 181

181

MV/HV Switchgears and Circuit Breakers

Commissioning Process Codes
• Commissioning tests are conducted at site • IEC 62271-200 and NETA 7.1 NETA 7.6
after installation of the equipment in order
to ensure that:

• The equipment will perform its duties in

service;
• Inter-connection with other apparatus is
correct.

Source:EEP

CBCP® 182

182

CBCP_v2023.11 91
 MV/HV Switchgears and Circuit Breakers
Commissioning Process

1. Visual Inspection Check • Don’ts

2. Mechanical Check Do not neglect safety
3. Electrical Check Do not neglect documentation and records
4. Operational Check Do not neglect inspection for shipping damage
5. Insulation Resistance Check Do not operate fast open-close to begin with
6. High Voltage Check Do not energize till completion of all tests
7. Power Factor test
8. Circuit Breaker Contact resistance
Measurement test
9. Circuit Breaker time-travel analysis test
10. Final Commissioning/Load Testing

Source: EEP

CBCP® 183

183

Motors
Cx Procedure Codes
Depends on motor type and size • IEC 60034 and NETA 7.15
For most motors For large Motors
• Insulation test • Bus voltage
• Phase to Phase • Prior to start
• Phase to Ground • At full load
• Frame Earthing • Voltage drop at start
• Dielectric Absorption Ratio • Bus voltage Current
• Polarization Index at full load
• Surge Comparator
• Rotation
• Vibration
Source:TECO Middle East (TME)

CBCP® 184

184

CBCP_v2023.11 92
 Variable Frequency Drives (VFD)

Why? Codes
• Provide soft start, so reduced impact • IEC 61800, 60364 and NETA 7.17
• Provide soft slowdown
• Match power to load
• Enable enhanced and flexible control
• Improve system efficiency and achieve
considerable energy savings

Source:TECO Middle East (TME)

CBCP® 185

185

Variable Frequency Drives (VFD)

Cx Procedure
• AC converter and motor correctly installed
• Motor must be inverter-duty
• Max. cable distance to motor as per specs
• Proper Earthing
• VFD cause harmonics. Check THD to be
within recommended limits. Do not exceed
2% THD on Voltage
• Ensure/test bypass
• Test breaker / relays
• Check BMS interface

Source: emersonindustrial.com

CBCP® 186

186

CBCP_v2023.11 93
 Variable Frequency Drives (VFD)
Cx Procedure – Parameter settings
• Basic Settings before connecting to load • Remaining Settings
1. Correct base voltage (ex 415V, 3 phase) 1. Maximum Speed
2. Correct base frequency (50 Hz or 60 Hz) 2. Minimum Speed
3. Connection to its cooling fans 3. Rated Current of the Motor
4. Current Limit
5. Acceleration Time
6. Deceleration Time
7. Starting Torque Boost
8. Check other default settings for adequacy

CBCP® 187

187

Lighting
Background
• Lighting is the most visible among electrical
systems
• It is among the major energy consumers in
buildings after Cooling and Heating
• It offers a great opportunity for energy
savings
• It’s an important energy element considered
in green building rating systems

CBCP® 188

188

CBCP_v2023.11 94
 Lighting
Purpose & Criteria for Quality
• Lighting systems are meant to satisfy three basic human needs:
o Safety
o Visual performance which enables the workers to perform their visual tasks, even under
difficult circumstances and during longer periods with comfort
o Visual comfort which enables the workers to have a feeling of well-being (in an indirect way)
also contributing to a high productivity level

• Moreover, lighting has become an opportunity for decorative design and architectural expression

CBCP® 189

189

Lighting
Main Cx Parameters
• Illuminance (measured in Lux)
• Luminance distribution
• Glare
• Directionality
• Color rendering and color appearance
• Flicker and stroboscopic effects
• Maintenance factor
• Energy considerations
• Daylight

CBCP® 190

190

CBCP_v2023.11 95
 Lighting
Illuminance Illuminance
Activity (lx, lumen/m2) (Footcandles)
Public areas with dark surroundings 20 - 50 2 – 4.5
Simple orientation for short visits 50 - 100 4.5 - 9.5
Areas with traffic and corridors - stairways, escalators and travelators - lifts - storage spaces 100 9.5
Working areas where visual tasks are only occasionally performed 100 - 150 9.5 – 14
Warehouses, homes, theaters, archives, loading bays 150 14
Coffee break room, technical facilities, ball-mill areas, pulp plants, waiting rooms, 200 20
Easy office work 250 23
Classrooms 300 28
Normal office work, PC work, study library, groceries, show rooms, laboratories, check-out areas,
500 46.5
kitchens, auditoriums
Supermarkets, mechanical workshops, office landscapes 750 70
Normal drawing work, detailed mechanical workshops, operation theaters 1000 93
Detailed drawing work, very detailed mechanical works, electronic workshops, testing and
1500 - 2000 140 - 185
adjustments
Performance of visual tasks of low contrast and very small size for prolonged periods of time 2000 - 5000 185 - 465
Performance of very prolonged and exacting visual tasks 5000 - 10000 465 - 930
Performance of very special visual tasks of extremely low contrast and small size 10000 - 20000 930 - 1850
Source: EN 12464 Light and lighting

CBCP® 191

191

Lighting
Cx procedures
• OPR would include illuminance (lux) levels in all areas, whether
automatic shading will be used for glare reduction, and building
orientation.
Pre-Design • Using a light meter, the design professional can help the owner
Phase determine what light levels it wants to achieve.

• The BOD includes the lighting and control concepts, and illuminance
criteria (lux) for artificial and natural lighting to realize the OPR.
• The CxA will review design documents and identify items to be
Design Phase included in the systems manual.

Source: Lighting Commissioning Guidelines and Standards

CBCP® 192

192

CBCP_v2023.11 96
 Lighting
Cx procedures
• Systems verification ensures the lighting control systems
are installed correctly.
Construction • Functional performance tests verify the lighting control
Phase systems work as designed.

• O&M staff and building users ensure that that the

building operates as designed.
Occupancy
and Operation
Phase
Source: Lighting Commissioning Guidelines and Standards

CBCP® 193

193

Lighting
Testing
Daylight Harvesting
• Ensure the Photo-sensors are correctly placed, orientation and check their sensitivity
• Adjust the photo-sensors to determine the threshold for switching based on detected
light level

Occupancy Sensors
• Ensure that the sensors are correctly placed and oriented and check their sensitivity
• Which types in which areas (e.g., dual technology, Passive IR only, etc.)
• Time-delay (LED light sources can have shorter delay)
• > 6-8 ft from HVAC diffusers, etc.
• Placed close to task area
• Check interference from outside the building

CBCP® 194

194

CBCP_v2023.11 97
 Lighting
Testing
Automatic scheduling
• Input the schedule into the programmable scheduling controls

Dimming Systems
• Set the lower limit of the range so that the minimum light level meets the
use/application of the space
• Set and test the different dimming levels and sensitivity

Home Automation/EIB (European Intelligent Bus) system

• Test controls as above
• Set and test the different light moods/scenes/colors as applicable

CBCP® 195

195

Other Electrical Systems

• Emergency generators • Communication Systems

• Transformers • Fire Alarm system
• RMUs • Emergency lighting
• UPS system • Access Control system
• Battery Monitoring System • Public Address System
• MTS and ATS • IPTV system
• Lightning System • CCTV system
• Conveying Systems • Etc…

CBCP® 196

196

CBCP_v2023.11 98
 Measurement and Tools

197

Electrical Tools
Power

• Clamp-On Ammeter
• Multi-meter:
• suitable for use as a voltage
and current measuring
instrument
• Power Analyzer Source: Testo Source: Testo
• key tool for measuring
electrical loads over time
• Measures: kW, kWh, kVAr,
kVA, V, A, PF, Harmonics
• Power Meters
Source: Fluke Source: eGuage

CBCP® 198

198

CBCP_v2023.11 99
 Electrical Tools
Power

• Circuit Tracer
• Transmitter and receiver
• Cable insulation
resistance tester Source: SureTrace

• Earth Fault locator

Source: Megger

CBCP® 199

199

Electrical Tools
Power

• Load Banks
• Serve as test load for
equipment
• Available in AC and DC

Source: OPS

CBCP® 200

200

CBCP_v2023.11 100
 Electrical Tools
Lighting
• Lux meter – light levels
• Fluorescent light tester
• Bulb test in place
• Ballast test (working or not)
• Voltage presence
• Pin continuity test
Source: testo
• Ballast type
• Ballast Discriminator/Checker
• Detects whether it’s a magnetic
or electronic ballast Source: Fluke

• Also, cellphone cameras

Source: Osram

CBCP® 201

201

Electrical Tools
Thermography

• Thermographic Camera
• Loose circuits
• Overheated/overloaded
connections

Source: Fluke

CBCP® 202

202

CBCP_v2023.11 101
 Electrical Tools
Solar PhotoVoltaic (PV) systems
Helps find common problems such as
shading, defective cells or poor
electrical connections
• Solar PV Testers, measuring:
• Responsivity
• External Quantum Efficiency
(EQE)
• IV response
• Efficiency
• Irradiance meters
• Drone applications
www.seawardsolar.com

CBCP® 203

203

Building Envelope Commissioning

204

CBCP_v2023.11 102
 The Building Envelope: “Our 3rd Skin”

Source: Fondation Louis Vutiton - Paris

205

Building Envelope Commissioning

Outline
• Requirements, Codes and Standards
• Envelope Components and Functions
• Testing & Tools

CBCP® 206

206

CBCP_v2023.11 103
 Building Envelope Commissioning
Learning Objectives
• Learning the main envelope • Understanding the role of building envelope in
commissioning requirements energy performance
• Understanding the building envelope • Glazing U-Value, SHGC, VT
components and its functions • Insulation
• SRI
• Understanding and Mitigating the Effects
of • Knowing which tests to apply and which tools
• Air Leakage to use to verify the building envelope integrity
• Moisture
and performance
• Air permeability
• Water Vapor
• Windstorm impact (Tornado, Hurricane)
• Water Permeability
• Thermal performance

CBCP® 207

207

Requirements, Codes & Standards

208

CBCP_v2023.11 104
 Requirements, Codes and Standards
Main Institutions Providing Commissioning Requirements
• ASHRAE – American Society of Heating, • ASTME – American Society for Testing Materials
Refrigerating and Air-Conditioning • AAMA – American Architectural Manufacturers
Engineers
Association
• NIBS – National Institute of Building • ABBA – Air Barrier Association of America
Sciences • NFRC – National Fenestration Rating Council
• LEED – Leadership in Energy and • UL – Underwriters Laboratories
Environmental Design • FM – Factory Mutual
• Various green building rating systems,
such as BREEAM, HQE, etc.

CBCP® 209

209

Requirements, Codes and Standards

ASHRAE, NIBS
• ASHRAE Guideline 0-2019, The Commissioning Process
• NIBS Guideline 3-2012. Building Enclosure Commissioning Process BECx

CBCP® 210

210

CBCP_v2023.11 105
 Requirements, Codes and Standards
ASTM
• ASTM E283 - Test Method for Determining Rate of Air Leakage Through Exterior Windows,
Skylights, Curtain Walls, and Doors Under Specified Pressure Differences Across the Specimen
• ASTM E330 - Test Method for Structural Performance of Exterior Windows, Doors, Skylights and
Curtain Walls by Uniform Static Air Pressure Difference
• ASTM E331 - Test Method for Water Penetration of Exterior Windows, Skylights, Doors, and
Curtain Walls by Uniform Static Air Pressure Difference
• ASTM E547 - Test Method for Water Penetration of Exterior Windows, Skylights, Doors, and
Curtain Walls by Cyclic Static Air Pressure Difference
• ASTM E779 - Test Method for Determining Air Leakage Rate by Fan Pressurization

CBCP® 211

211

Requirements, Codes and Standards

ASTM
• ASTM E783 - Test Method for Field Measurement of Air Leakage Through Installed Exterior
Windows and Doors
• ASTM E1105 - Test Method for Field Determination of Water Penetration of Installed Exterior
Windows, Skylights, Doors, and Curtain Walls, by Uniform or Cyclic Static Air Pressure Difference
• ASTM E1186 - Practices for Air Leakage Site Detection in Building Envelopes and Air Barrier
Systems
• ASTM E1677 - Specification for Air Barrier (AB) Material or Assemblies for Low-Rise Framed
Building Walls
• ASTM E1827 - Test Methods for Determining Airtightness of Buildings Using an Orifice Blower Door
• ASTM E2128 - Guide for Evaluating Water Leakage of Building Walls

CBCP® 212

212

CBCP_v2023.11 106
 Requirements, Codes and Standards
ASTM
• ASTM E2357 - Test Method for Determining Air Leakage Rate of Air Barrier Assemblies
• ASTM C1060 - Standard Practice for Thermographic Inspection of Insulation Installations in
Envelope Cavities of Frame Buildings
• ASTM C1601 - Test Method for Field Determination of Water Penetration of Masonry Wall
Surfaces
• ASTM D4541/ISO 4624 - Test Method for Pull-Off Strength of Coatings Using Portable Adhesion
Testers
• ASTM D5957 - Guide for Flood Testing Horizontal Waterproofing Installations

CBCP® 213

213

Requirements, Codes and Standards

AAME
• AAMA 501 - METHODS OF TEST FOR EXTERIOR WALLS
• AAMA 501.1 - Standard test method for water penetration of wall claddings, windows,
storefronts, curtain walls & doors using dynamic pressure (Airplane Engine)
• AAMA 501.2 - Quality Assurance and Diagnostic Water Leakage Field Check of Installed
Storefronts, Curtain Walls, and Sloped Glazing Systems (Nozzle Test)
• AAMA 501.4 - Recommended Static Test Method for Evaluating Curtain Wall and Storefront
Systems Subjected to Seismic and Wind Induced Interstory Drifts.
• AAMA 501.6 - Recommended Dynamic Test Method For Determining the Seismic Drift Causing
Glass Fallout From A Wall System

CBCP® 214

214

CBCP_v2023.11 107
 Requirements, Codes and Standards
AAME
• AAMA 502 - Voluntary Specification for Field Testing of Newly Installed Fenestration Products
(Pressure chamber & water rack)
• AAMA 503 - Voluntary Specification for Field Testing Newly Installed Storefronts, Curtain Walls
and Sloped Glazing Systems. (Pressure chamber & water rack)
• AAMA 511 - Voluntary Guideline for Forensic Water Penetration Testing of Fenestration Products

CBCP® 215

215

Requirements, Codes and Standards

FM, ISO
• FM Global Loss Prevention Data Sheet 1-52 (FM 1-52) - Field Verification of Roof Wind Uplift
Resistance
• ISO 6781 - Thermal Insulation – Qualitative Detection of Thermal Irregularities in Building
Envelopes - Infrared Method

CBCP® 216

216

CBCP_v2023.11 108
 Envelope Components & Functions

217

Introduction
Building Envelope Definition

The building envelope is the

physical barrier between the
exterior and interior environments
enclosing a structure. It allows the
indoor environment to be
controlled within acceptable limits
for human health, safety, comfort,
and economical building operation.

Source: Omrania

CBCP® 218

218

CBCP_v2023.11 109
 Introduction
Building Envelope Components

Source"Building Envelope" by Augustine Musa

CBCP® 219

219

Introduction
Building Envelope Main Functions

The many functions of the building envelope can be separated into three categories:
• Support (to resist and transfer structural and dynamic loads)
• Finish (to meet desired aesthetics on the inside and outside)
• Control (the flow of matter and energy of all types)
o rain control o Light control
o air control o Solar radiation control
o heat control o Noise control
o vapor control

CBCP® 220

220

CBCP_v2023.11 110
 Introduction
Building Envelope Cx

Building Envelope Commissioning (BECx) is a strict quality-focused

process wherein the performance of envelope (or enclosure) is
evaluated and verified against defined objectives and criteria.

CBCP® 221

221

Introduction
Cx Objectives

TO CONTROL TO ELIMINATE TO IMPROVE

• Heat flow • Rain Penetration • Durability
• Air Flow • Moisture Build-up • Security
• Water Vapor Flow • Reliability
• Noise • Aesthetics
• Fire • Value
• Light • Constructability
• Infrared • Maintainability
• Ultraviolet • Sustainability

CBCP® 222

222

CBCP_v2023.11 111
 Air Leakage

• The largest single contributor to energy waste in buildings along with HVAC
systems.
• Uncontrolled air movement in and out of buildings (infiltration and exfiltration) is
considered as air leakage. It is usually expressed in air changes per hour (ACH)
• Infiltrating air entrains water vapor and pollutants into the building
• Reducing air leakage can save from 5% to 40% of heating and cooling energy

CBCP® 223

223

Air Leakage
Stack Effect

• In cold climate, warm air inside tall

buildings rises from bottom to top,
creating an upward draft and entraining
cold outdoor air in from low levels
through building entrance, windows,
doors, and cracks, etc.
• In warm climate, the reverse happens
• Elevator shafts, stairwells, utility shafts,
atriums, etc. are vulnerable to stack
effects

Source: CPP Wind

CBCP® 224

224

CBCP_v2023.11 112
 Air Leakage
Combined Stack, Wind and Fans Effects

Source: Efficiency Matrix

CBCP® 225

225

Moisture
Sources Effects
• Rainwater leaks through roofs and • Mold growth
walls • Damage to building installations
• Groundwater intrusion into • Damage to building structure
basements through walls and floors
• Poor indoor air quality
• Leakage of moist air (stack, wind and • Sick Building Syndrome (SBS)
fan effects)
• Vapor diffusion through walls, roofs,
and floors
• Leaking or burst water pipes
• Indoor moisture sources

CBCP® 226

226

CBCP_v2023.11 113
 Water Vapor
Considerations
• Problematic when is condenses
• Envelope surfaces should remain above dew-point of indoor air
• Envelope systems should dry out faster than they accumulate moisture and
should not reach 80% RH

CBCP® 227

227

Water Vapor
Considerations
• Water vapor barrier
not recommended
in hot-humid
climates as they
impeded the wall’s
ability to dry
• Cannot dry with
very Humid
outdoor air!

Source: Research Gate

CBCP® 228

228

CBCP_v2023.11 114
 Air, Water and Vapor Barriers

Roofs and Slabs

Figure 1. Protected membrane roofs: critical Figure 2. Slabs-on-grade are simply upside-
control layers under the ballast and filter down roofs
fabric (cladding) are protected from
ultraviolet degradation and mechanical
damage

Source: Whole Building Design Guide

CBCP® 229

229

Air, Water and Vapor Barriers

Walls

Figure 3. Deflection
Figure 4. The 4Ds well
deployed: Deflection,
Drainage, Drying, Durability
Source: Whole Building Design Guide

CBCP® 230

230

CBCP_v2023.11 115
 Air, Water and Vapor Barriers

Walls

Figure 6. The "Perfect Wall”: cladding

(rainwater control layer), control layers Figure 5. Cladding
(heat, air and moisture) and structure Joint Design

Source: Whole Building Design Guide

CBCP® 231

231

Energy Performance
Why ?
• While the envelope performs many functions, it is crucial to the energy
performance of a building.
• It is the first and most imperatives line of energy conservation, prior to efficient
systems and sophisticated controls.
Improving Energy Performance through:
• Material composition • Surface Reflectance
• Insulation • Orientation
• Shading • Natural Daylighting
• Glazing • Natural Ventilation

CBCP® 232

232

CBCP_v2023.11 116
 Energy Performance
Window Energy rating

• The U-Value measures how well the window insulates. For windows it ranges from 0.20 to 1.20.
The lower the U-Value, the better the window insulates.
• Solar Heat Gain Coefficient (SHGC): measures how much of the sun's heat comes through the
window. SHGC is expressed as a number between 0 and 1. The lower the SHGC, the better the
window blocks solar heat.
• Visible Transmittance (VT): measures how much light comes through a product. VT is expressed
as a number between 0 and 1. The higher the VT, the higher the potential for daylighting.
• High performance Low-E windows have become more and more common.

CBCP® 233

233

Thermal Barrier/Insulation
Function
• Reduces heat flow through the building
structure
• Keeps comfortable indoor conditions
against cold or hot outdoor conditions
• Improves energy use by the HVAC

Source: Service Champions

CBCP® 234

234

CBCP_v2023.11 117
 Thermal Barrier/Insulation
Level of Insulation How are Insulation Materials Rated?

• Building codes and standards typically • According to their ability to resist heat flow
require a minimum insulation level for
• This thermal resistance rating is commonly known
each component of the building envelope
as “R-value”
• These levels vary depending on the • The higher the R-value of a material, the better its
climate zone ability to resist heat flow
• The reciprocal of the R-value is the U-value, which
characterizes the rate of heat loss through a
material
• NB: Heat only flows from Hot to Cold

CBCP® 235

235

Thermal Barrier/Insulation
Material and Types

• Material • Green Insulation

• Fiber (mineral & organic) • Sheep Wool
• Plastics • Cotton / Denim
• Expanded Polystyrene • Icynene
• Extruded Polystyrene • Aerogel insulation
• Cellulose Fiber
• Polyurethane
• Thermal Cork
• Polyisocyanurate
• Mycelium
• Types
• Blanket insulation • Radiant barriers • Spray foam
• Foam boards • Blown-in insulation • Structural insulated panels (SIPs)

CBCP® 236

236

CBCP_v2023.11 118
 Solar Reflectance
Types
• The solar reflectance (SR) is the surface capability to reflect solar radiation back to the Atmosphere
• The Solar Reflectance Index (SRI) for black surface is 0 and for standard white surface is 100

Source: Lubrizol Source: BBC

CBCP® 237

237

Commissioning Procedure

• OPR would include Building Envelope testing requirements,

codes and standards
Pre-Design
Phase

• The BOD includes description of system options

• It describes interaction between building envelope and air-
Design conditioning, natural ventilation, daylighting, and interior
• A system manual is developed for each element of the envelope
Phase

CBCP® 238

238

CBCP_v2023.11 119
 Commissioning Procedure
• Schedule of the systems to be tested
• Completion of Construction checklist
• Lab, mock-up and field tests
Construction • Testing as per scope of each Party, including CxA
Phase • Performance Documentation

• O&M staff and building users ensure that that the building
operates as designed
• Measures during seasonal weather cycles
Occupancy & • Performance verification
Operation • Ongoing training
Phase

CBCP® 239

239

Testing & Tools

240

CBCP_v2023.11 120
 Testing
Testing Services

• Air permeability
• Windstorm impact (Tornado, Hurricane)
• Water Permeability
• Thermal performance
• Acoustic Performance

CBCP® 241

241

Testing
Laboratory and Mock-up
Testing & Certification
• Building materials, products & assemblies
are tested using specialized equipment and
test chambers
• Mock-up testing validates the design,
materials and performance of your building
facade prior to construction
• Curtain Wall Systems
• Storefronts
• Skylights
• Doors & Windows
• Wall Cladding
Source: UL

CBCP® 242

242

CBCP_v2023.11 121
 Testing
Field Testing

• Validate the performance and

regulatory compliance of the
installed building enclosure
and identify the source of
issues for remediation

Source: UL

CBCP® 243

243

Testing Tools
Thermography

• Infrared Thermographic
Camera

Source: TSI

CBCP® 244

244

CBCP_v2023.11 122
 Testing Tools
Water Penetration
• Dynamic water testing
• Creating the condition of wind-
driven rain by spraying water
onto the test window through a
spray rig while creating “wind”
using a wind generator
apparatus
Source: Architectural Testing Source: TSI
• Static water testing
• Simulating the condition of wind-
driven rain by the pressurization
or depressurization onto the test
window, and the application of
water by way of a spray rig
Source : Building
Diagnostic Group

CBCP® 245

245

Testing Tools
Adhesion, Integrity

• Coating pull off adhesion

tester
• Electronic Leak Detection
(ELD) for waterproofing Source: Elcometer Source: DeFelsko

membranes
• Vacuum air leak tester for
waterproofing
membranes

Source : waterproof magazine Source : mingmai technology

CBCP® 246

246

CBCP_v2023.11 123
 End

247

CBCP_v2023.11 124