Mid Hudson Medical - Rhinebeck, NY
Scott Miller, TraneWhen real estate development firm Kirchhoff Companies began planning construction of the Mid Hudson Medical Group building in Rhinebeck, N.Y., patient and doctor comfort were of utmost importance. The project required building equipment and systems capable of addressing comfort needs and indoor air quality, while also providing ease of use, efficiency and reliability.
With the goal of opening the new facility as quickly as possible, Kirchhoff knew that working with a responsive partner for heating, ventilation, air conditioning (HVAC) and building controls would be key to achieving project objectives. The chosen solution, an EarthWise Intelligent Variable Air System, included Trane rooftop units, variable air volume (VAV) boxes and a building automation system (BAS) that utilized wireless communication and integration of a third-party critical process management system.
The medial group’s comfort needs were answered with four IntelliPak rooftop units, which provide an Energy Efficiency Ratio (EER) that is 10% more efficient than the government standard. In addition, the unit’s direct-drive plenum fan technology delivers quiet operation for a comfortable environment and is 20% more efficient than traditional forward-curved fans. A touchscreen display speeds troubleshooting, and a beltless design reduces unplanned service.
The system also included 180 VAV boxes. Building managers can easily monitor efficiency of the VAV system with intuitive dashboards that allow quick visual inspection of system operation, efficiency and comfort conditions.
Along with the equipment solutions, a web-based Tracer SC BAS allows building operators to streamline operations, performing daily tasks including scheduling, troubleshooting, alarm management and data analysis any Internet-enabled device. Facility managers use the BAS to monitor system operations and identify opportunities to improve efficiency and energy savings. The system also integrates third-party computer room unit controllers, allowing personnel to view real-time data from the MRI equipment room and third floor data center.
The use of Trane Air-Fi wireless technology eliminated the need for communication wires between system and unit controllers, reducing installation time and cost. Wireless technology provides flexibility for easier relocation of controls and VAV boxes should there be a need for a change in building layout.
A fully-functional, patient-ready facility for Mid Hudson Medical Group was up and running within one year, achieving the comfort, timing and budget specifications outlined by Kirchhoff.
“Reliability is most important to us, as well as being able to get a quick response when needed,” said Jeff Kane, project manager, Kirchhoff Companies. “We were pleased with the Mid Hudson Medical Group project.”
Scott Miller is an account manager at Trane, Albany, N.Y.
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