What is the pur pose of Air handling unit?
Purpose of Air Handling Unit:
An air handling unit (AHU) is an essential component of heating, ventilating, and air conditioning (HVAC) systems. The primary purpose of an AHU is to condition and distribute air within a building or enclosed space. It plays a crucial role in maintaining indoor air quality, thermal comfort, and humidity levels. Here are the key purposes of an air handling unit:
1. Air Mixing:
AHUs mix outdoor air with return air from the building. Outdoor air is often fresh and contains oxygen, while return air is recirculated from the building's interior and may carry contaminants. By controlled mixing, AHUs ensure a proper balance between fresh air supply and energy conservation.
2. Filtration:
AHUs are equipped with air filters to remove various contaminants, including dust, pollen, bacteria, and particulate matter. These filters help improve indoor air quality by trapping pollutants before they circulate throughout the building.
3. Cooling:
AHUs often incorporate cooling coils to lower the temperature of the air. Chilled water or refrigerant flows through these coils, absorbing heat from the air passing over them. This cooling process helps maintain comfortable indoor temperatures during warmer seasons.
4. Heating:
In cold weather, AHUs may utilize heating coils to warm up the air. Hot water or steam passes through the heating coils, transferring heat to the air. This process helps achieve and maintain desired indoor temperatures during colder months.
5. Humidification and Dehumidification:
AHUs can control humidity levels by adding moisture to the air (humidification) or removing excess moisture (dehumidification). This is essential for maintaining comfortable indoor conditions, preventing static electricity buildup, and protecting building materials.
6. Air Circulation:
AHUs utilize fans or blowers to circulate conditioned air throughout the building. These fans distribute air through supply ducts and vents, ensuring proper airflow and temperature distribution in all rooms and spaces.
7. Ventilation:
AHUs play a vital role in providing ventilation by replacing stale indoor air with fresh outdoor air. This helps maintain acceptable levels of oxygen, remove pollutants generated indoors, and prevent the buildup of harmful gases, odors, and contaminants.
8. Control and Automation:
Modern AHUs incorporate advanced control systems that monitor and adjust various parameters such as temperature, humidity, and air quality. Integration with building automation systems allows for efficient and centralized control, optimizing energy efficiency and occupant comfort.
In summary, an air handling unit is vital in maintaining indoor environmental conditions by providing cooling, heating, filtration, humidity control, ventilation, and air circulation. It ensures occupant comfort, health, and productivity, while also contributing to energy efficiency and overall building performance.