Fan coil units (FCU’s) are a key component of facilities management in many commercial and industrial buildings. The design of the fan coil is critical for optimal performance in terms of energy efficiency, cost effectiveness and occupant comfort. This blog post examines the importance of designing fan coil units for facilities management, as well as the different elements that must be considered when doing so.

What is a Fan Coil Unit?

A fan coil unit is an air handling unit that is used in air conditioning and heating systems. It consists of a fan, a coil, and a heat exchanger. The fan draws in air from the room and blows it across the coil, which is filled with a refrigerant, a gas or liquid that absorbs or releases heat as it changes state. The heat exchanger then transfers the heat or cool air to the room.

Design Considerations for Fan Coil Units

When designing a fan coil unit, there are several factors that must be taken into account. These include the type of fan, the size of the coil, the type of refrigerant, the type of heat exchanger, the speed of the fan and the design of the ductwork.

Types of Fan

The type of fan used in a fan coil unit can have a big impact on its performance and efficiency. The two most common types of fan used in fan coil units are centrifugal fans and axial fans. Centrifugal fans generate air flow by spinning blades, while axial fans generate air flow by pushing air through a series of blades. Each type of fan has its own advantages and disadvantages, and the type chosen should be based on the specific needs of the application.

Size of the Coil

The size of the coil is an important factor in the design of the fan coil unit. The larger the coil, the more heat can be exchanged, which can increase the efficiency of the unit. However, if the coil is too large, it may cause the fan to become overloaded and reduce its efficiency.

Type of Refrigerant

The type of refrigerant used in a fan coil unit should also be carefully considered. Different types of refrigerants have different properties and can affect the performance of the unit.

Type of Heat Exchanger

The type of heat exchanger used in a fan coil unit should also be chosen based on the application. Heat exchangers can be air-to-air, air-to-liquid, or liquid-to-liquid. Each type of heat exchanger has its own advantages and disadvantages, and the type chosen should be based on the specific needs of the application.

Speed of the Fan

The speed of the fan is another important consideration when designing a fan coil unit. The faster the fan is spinning, the more air is pushed through the coil, which can increase the efficiency of the unit. However, if the fan is too fast, it can cause air turbulence, which can reduce the efficiency of the unit.

Design of the Ductwork

The design of the ductwork is also important for optimal performance. Ducts should be designed to be as efficient as possible, and to minimize turbulence in the air flow. Unnecessary bends or turns should be avoided, as these can reduce the efficiency of the system.

Conclusion

Designing fan coil units is an important part of facilities management. It is important to carefully consider the type of fan, the size of the coil, the type of refrigerant, the type of heat exchanger, the speed of the fan, and the design of the ductwork when designing a fan coil unit. By taking these elements into account, it is possible to ensure that the fan coil unit is optimized for optimal performance, energy efficiency and cost effectiveness.