Project Title:
“Smart Labs: Performance Optimization through Advanced Computational Fluid Dynamics (CFD) Analysis”
Overview
Applied Energy Consulting partnered with the University of Alberta on a qualitative scoping study for a lab optimization project. The study aimed to optimize the energy efficiency and performance of ventilation systems across nine laboratory buildings by leveraging advanced engineering methods, including Computational Fluid Dynamics (CFD) modeling.
As a key partner, we brought expertise in airflow analysis, energy benchmarking, and strategic roadmap development, contributing to actionable insights that aligned laboratory ventilation practices with international safety, sustainability, and performance standards.
Key Contributions
- Advanced CFD Modeling and Analysis
· Performed CFD simulations to evaluate airflow dynamics, thermal stratification, and ventilation effectiveness in laboratory spaces.
· Identified areas of suboptimal airflow, such as stagnant zones and over-ventilated areas, and proposed targeted solutions to enhance air distribution and energy efficiency. - Scoping and Prioritization of Laboratory Buildings
· Collaborated to evaluate and rank nine laboratory buildings based on their Performance Improvement Potential (PIP) and Level of Effort (LOE) required for optimization.
· Key buildings, including Katz, NINT, and CCIS, were prioritized for further analysis due to their significant potential for energy savings and performance improvements. - Airflow System Diagnostics
· Conducted on-site inspections to collect data and validate findings from CFD simulations.
· Identified inefficiencies in airflow systems and recommended upgrades to ventilation systems and energy recovery units to address observed issues. - Strategic Recommendations and Roadmap Development
· Developed a detailed roadmap for Phase 1B Quantitative Performance Audits of selected buildings.
· Proposed enhancements to Building Automation Systems (BAS) and airflow control mechanisms to ensure dynamic and energy-efficient ventilation strategies. - Energy Benchmarking and Performance Insights
· Benchmarked energy usage across the nine laboratory buildings, comparing it against international energy efficiency standards for laboratory environments.
· Delivered actionable recommendations to align ventilation systems with the University’s sustainability goals while maintaining strict safety requirements.
Outcomes
The project identified critical opportunities to enhance laboratory ventilation systems, with the following key outcomes:
· Energy Savings Potential:
Potential energy savings exceeding 20% for several laboratory buildings by addressing inefficiencies and optimizing ventilation systems.
· Improved Safety and Functionality:
Enhanced airflow distribution and ventilation effectiveness to support laboratory safety while maintaining optimal working conditions.
· Foundation for Future Phases:
The scoping study laid the groundwork for Phase 1B assessments, furthering the University of Alberta’s sustainability mission and contributing to its long-term energy efficiency goals.
Why Choose Applied Energy Consulting?
Applied Energy Consulting specializes in leveraging advanced engineering methods, such as CFD modeling, to optimize building performance. Our expertise in energy benchmarking, airflow diagnostics, and strategic planning enables us to deliver solutions that not only enhance energy efficiency but also align with safety and sustainability objectives.
By partnering with AEC, you gain access to a trusted advisor with a proven track record of success in complex projects like the University of Alberta’s Smart Labs initiative.
