Designing and energy simulation of Variable Refrigerant

flow air conditioning system under cooling module

Group Members

Shahbaz Hussain 2014-ME-353 shahbaz.hussain99791@gmail.com

Farhan Yousaf 2014-ME-356 farhan.yusaf@hotmail.com

Umar Izhar 2014-ME-365 umar.izhar@outlook.com

Murtaza Sabir 2014-ME-366 murtaza.sabbir@gmail.com

Project Advisors

Mr. Tahir Asif Tahir.asif@uet.edu.pk

Dr. Rabia Asif Rabia.shaukat@gmail.com

A thesis submitted in partial fulfilment of the requirements for

the degree of Mechanical Engineering at

University of Engineering and Technology, Lahore (KSK Campus)

1
Designing and energy simulation of Variable Refrigerant flow
air conditioning system under cooling module

Internal Examiner

Name: …………………….

Signature: …………………

Dated: …………………….

External Examiner

Name: …………………….

Signature: …………………

Dated: …………………….

Department of Mechanical Engineering-KSK Campus

University of Engineering and Technology Lahore- Pakistan

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Declaration

We, Shahbaz Hussain, Muhammad Farhan Yousaf, Umar Izhar and Muhammad

Murtaza, confirm that the research included within this thesis is our own work or that

where it has been carried out in collaboration with, or supported by others, that this is

duly acknowledged below and our contribution indicated. Previously published material

is also acknowledged below.

We attest that we have exercised reasonable care to ensure that the work is original and

does not to the best of our knowledge infringe any third party’s copyright or other

Intellectual Property Right or contain any confidential material.

We accept that the University has the right to use plagiarism detection software to check

the electronic version of the thesis.

We confirm that this thesis has not been previously submitted for the award of a degree

by this or any other university.

The copyright of this thesis rests with the author and no quotation from it or information

derived from it may be published without the prior written consent of the author.

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Print Name: Shahbaz Hussain

Signature: .....................................................................

Date: ..................................................................................

Print Name: Muhammad Farhan Yousaf

Signature: .....................................................................

Date: ..................................................................................

Print Name: Umar Izhar

Signature: .....................................................................

Date: ..................................................................................

Print Name: Muhammad Murtaza

Signature: .....................................................................

Date: ..................................................................................

4
Preface

The work presented in this report was undertaken at the Department of Mechanical

Engineering, University of Engineering and Technology, Lahore between June 2017 and

May 2018. This report is the result of our own work and does not include anything which

is the outcome of work done in collaboration except where specifically indicated in the

text. Neither the present report, nor any part thereof, has been submitted previously for a

degree to this or any other university. The main text of this report-chapters one through

eight-including appendix, bibliography, tables, and equations contains approximately

9299 words. Additionally, 10 figures and 15 tables are included.

5
Abstract

Variable refrigerant flow (VRF) system is one of the modern methods of air conditioning

that has the ability to change the mass flow rate of the refrigerant according to the zone

conditions. The basic theme is that it makes use of a large outdoor unit to serve multiple

indoor units (evaporators). VRF systems can be used as in three modes; cooling only,

heat recovery and heat pump. The heat pump and cooling only modes are complex, large

and multi-splits whereas heat recovery mode can provide both heating and cooling

simultaneously using the same outdoor unit. The heat recovery mode is also referred to

as mixed mode and it is energy efficient and energy saving. If mixed mode has cooling

COP of 5 and heating COP of 3, it can provide a COP of equivalent to 8. VRF systems

can be water cooled or air cooled depending on the cooling of condenser, either water-

cooled or air-cooled. There are various simulation software available for energy

modelling like; Ecotech, EnergyPlus and Rivet etc. This project attempts to design

simulate water-cooled VRF system using JCI New York and analysing monthly and

seasonal cooling energy consumption of a particular building using HAP (Hourly

Analysis Program). The power comparison between water-cooled and air-cooled VRF

systems is also analysed. Commented [MM1]: What about this?

Keywords: Energy simulation, Water-cooled variable refrigerant flow air-conditioning

system, conditioning system, cooling capacity, VRF heat recovery, compressor power,

VRF heat pump, JCI New York, HAP, Thermal Comfort, HVAC system, Energy

simulation, cooling power

6
Acknowledgement

First of all, we are very thankful to ALLAH Almighty, the source of all knowledge and

wisdom, who enabled us to complete this task. We would like to express deep gratitude

to our advisors Mr. Tahir Asif and Co-advisor Dr. Rabia Asif for their full support,

enthusiasm, devotion and motivation. Without their forceful support, guidance and

mentorship this report would have been verged on the impossible.

We would like to honour our parents and family members for providing us unfailing

support, unwavering encouragement and every facility we demanded at any time. We

also would like to show our gratitude to all faculty of Mechanical Engineering for

steering us in the right direction whenever we thought we needed it.

We would like to thankful to our beloved friends who really believed in ourselves in

completion of this project and thesis. We hope this project will be shining star for all

students and engineers in future who want to get knowledge about VRF system and

simulation of all of its setup.

We are really thankful to Mr. Farooq Saeed, CEO of Greave Ltd. And current President

of ASHRAE, central Pakistan. His effort and trust on us really helped us to complete this

project. He helped us where needed and provided us with best knowledge which helped

us in completing this project.

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Table of Contents

Abstract........................................................................................................................ 6

Acknowledgement........................................................................................................ 7

Chapter 1.................................................................................................................... 16

1. Introduction ........................................................................................................ 16

1.1. Motivation ................................................................................................... 16

1.2. Aims and Objectives .................................................................................... 16

1.3. History ......................................................................................................... 17

1.4. Organisation of the Report ........................................................................... 17

1.5. Variable Refrigerant flow ............................................................................. 19

1.5.1. Introduction .......................................................................................... 19

1.5.2. VRF benefits ......................................................................................... 19

1.5.3. Space layout .......................................................................................... 21

1.5.4. Applications .......................................................................................... 21

Chapter 2.................................................................................................................... 23

2. Literature Review ............................................................................................... 23

2.1. Introduction ................................................................................................. 23

2.2. HVAC:......................................................................................................... 26

2.3. HVAC systems: ........................................................................................... 26

8
 2.3.1. The split system: ................................................................................... 27

2.3.2. The hybrid system: ................................................................................ 28

2.3.3. Energy Consumption and cost: .............................................................. 28

2.3.4. Heat Pumps: .......................................................................................... 29

2.3.5. Fan Coil Units: ...................................................................................... 29

2.3.6. Variable refrigerant flow system: .......................................................... 30

2.4. Refrigerants: ................................................................................................ 31

2.4.1. Types: ................................................................................................... 31

2.4.2. Refrigerant Blends: ............................................................................... 32

2.4.3. Types of refrigerant blends: ................................................................... 32

2.4.4. Desirable properties of refrigerants: ...................................................... 32

2.4.5. ASHRAE STANDARD 34: .................................................................. 33

2.4.6. Selected Refrigerant (R410a): ............................................................... 34

Chapter 3.................................................................................................................... 35

3. Calculations and Results ..................................................................................... 35

3.1. Introduction ................................................................................................. 35

3.2. Approach ..................................................................................................... 35

3.3. Conventional Load Calculation .................................................................... 36

3.3.1. Design weather parameters and MSHGs: .............................................. 36

3.3.2. Design Day Maximum Solar Heat Gains ............................................... 36

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 3.3.3. Spaces: .................................................................................................. 38

3.3.4. Default System Input Data: ................................................................... 38

3.3.5. Zone Components: ................................................................................ 40

3.3.6. Sizing Data (Computer-Generated): ...................................................... 41

3.3.7. Equipment Data .................................................................................... 42

3.3.8. Air System Sizing Summary for Default System: .................................. 43

3.3.9. Zone Sizing Summary for Default System:............................................ 44

3.3.10. Zone Sizing Data ............................................................................... 45

3.3.11. Psychrometric Analysis for Default system ........................................ 50

3.4. VRF Load Calculation ................................................................................. 51

3.4.1. Introduction .......................................................................................... 51

3.4.2. JCI (Johnsons Control Inc.) ................................................................... 51

3.4.3. Features ................................................................................................ 51

3.4.4. Results and List of Products .................................................................. 53

3.4.5. Indoor Unit List .................................................................................... 54

3.4.6. Outdoor Unit List .................................................................................. 55

3.4.7. Accessories List .................................................................................... 56

3.4.8. Piping Connection Kit ........................................................................... 57

3.4.9. Branch Kit ............................................................................................ 57

Chapter 4.................................................................................................................... 58

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4. Designing of System ........................................................................................... 58

4.1. Introduction ................................................................................................. 58

4.2. Approach ..................................................................................................... 58

4.3. Designing ..................................................................................................... 59

4.3.1. Colour Codes ........................................................................................ 60

4.4. Plan.............................................................................................................. 60

4.4.1. Issues .................................................................................................... 60

4.4.2. Solution ................................................................................................ 61

4.4.3. Design Analysis .................................................................................... 61

Chapter 5.................................................................................................................... 62

5. Cost Analysis ..................................................................................................... 62

5.1. Energy consumption (Running cost) ............................................................. 62

5.1.1. Split system: ......................................................................................... 62

5.1.2. Ducted split/Packaged system: .............................................................. 62

5.1.3. Air-cooled chiller system ...................................................................... 63

5.1.4. Water cooled chiller system: ................................................................. 63

5.1.5. VRF system: ......................................................................................... 63

5.2. Installation Cost ........................................................................................... 64

5.2.1. Split system: ......................................................................................... 64

5.2.2. Ducted Split/Packaged system ............................................................... 64

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 5.2.3. Air-cooled chiller system ...................................................................... 64

5.2.4. Water-cooled chiller system .................................................................. 64

5.2.5. VRF system: ......................................................................................... 65

5.3. Graphical Representation ............................................................................. 65

5.3.1. Installation Cost .................................................................................... 65

5.3.2. Running Cost ........................................................................................ 66

Chapter 6.................................................................................................................... 67

6. Conclusions and Suggestions .............................................................................. 67

6.1. Introduction ................................................................................................. 67

6.2. Interior and Exterior Insulation (Cladding) ................................................... 67

6.3. Compressors ................................................................................................ 67

6.4. Double Glass ................................................................................................ 67

6.5. Window to wall ratio .................................................................................... 68

6.6. Energy Optimization .................................................................................... 68

Bibliography ................................................................ Error! Bookmark not defined.

7. References ............................................................ Error! Bookmark not defined.

12
List of Figures

Figure 1: Space layout of VRF system [8] .................................................................. 21

Figure 2: Schematic Diagram of VRF system [2] ....................................................... 24

Figure 3: Indoor simulated temperature and relative humidity of VRF system in different

zones: (a) temperature in summer, (b) relative humidity in summer, (c) temperature in

winter, (d) relative humidity in winter ......................................................................................

[2] .............................................................................................................................. 25

Figure 4: Variation of indoor temperature during measurement on heating design day [2]

................................................................................................................................... 26

Figure 5 Psychrometric Analysis ................................................................................ 50

Figure 6 Ground Floor ................................................................................................ 59

Figure 7 First Floor .................................................................................................... 59

Figure 8 Second Floor ................................................................................................ 60

Figure 9 Comparison of Installation Cost ................................................................... 65

Figure 10 Comparison of Running Cost ...................................................................... 66

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List of Tables

Table 1 Nomenclature ................................................................................................ 33

Table 2 It is blend of HFC compounds, known as PURON, and its composition ......... 34

Table 3 Solar Heat Gain ............................................................................................. 37

Table 4 CFM ................................................................ Error! Bookmark not defined.

Table 5 Zone Sizing ................................................................................................... 45

Table 6 Space Loads and Airflows ............................................................................. 45

Table 7 Load Summary .............................................................................................. 48

Table 8 Hourly Load Zone ........................................... Error! Bookmark not defined.

Table 10 Project Information ...................................................................................... 53

Table 11 Indoor Unit List ............................................. Error! Bookmark not defined.

Table 12 Outdoor Unit list .......................................................................................... 55

Table 13 Accessories List ........................................................................................... 56

Table 14 Piping Connection Kit ................................................................................ 57

Table 15 Branch Connection Kit ................................................................................ 57

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Important Nomenclature

Abbreviations

HVAC Heating Ventilation and Air Conditioning

VRF Variable Refrigerant Flow

FPFA Fan-coil plus fresh air

EIR cool Energy input ratio

(EIRTempModFac) cool Energy input ratio temperature modifier

(EIRFlowModFac) cool Energy input ratio (EIR) flow modifier.

PLR Part Load Ratio

VAV Variable Air Volume

Qc Cooling Capacity

ERV Energy Recovery Ventilator

Ff flow ratio

RTU Roof -Top Unit

WB Wet Bulb temperature

HAP Hourly Analysis Program

DB Dry Bulb temperature

JCI Johnsons Control Inc.

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Chapter 1

1. Introduction

1.1. Motivation

In Pakistan, where energy crisis is one of the biggest problems of country, the increasing

emphasis on energy efficient buildings motivates researchers and engineers to analyse

and study different techniques and possible methods to minimize energy consumption in

industrial, commercial and residential buildings. Annual energy consumption by

domestic sector is 45.9% of the total, while industrial sector consumes about 27.5%. Half

of the total energy consumed is used buildings heating, ventilation and air-conditioning

(HVAC) and lightning appliances [1]. Variable refrigerant flow systems change the mass

flow rate of refrigerant to indoor units according to the desirable conditions. This ability

of VRF to control the amount of refrigerant makes it ideal for applications where zoning

is required and conditions vary zone to zone. Since both heating and cooling can be done

simultaneously VRF systems also offer energy savings, design flexibility, human

comfort and cost-effective installation. In VRF system, various indoor units are

connected to only one outdoor unit and this outdoor unit has one or more compressors,

these compressors are driven by inverters so their rotational speed can be changed by

changing the frequency of power supply. Each indoor unit is equipped with metering

device that sends message to outdoor unit for the needed refrigerant in that indoor unit.

1.2. Aims and Objectives

Aims of this project are divided into various tasks;

 Designing of VRF air conditioning system for a particular building.

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  Simulation analysis of VRF system designed for a particular building.

 Analysis of Monthly and seasonal cooling energy consumption and breakdown

of the total power consumption.

 Power comparison between water-cooled VRF system and air-cooled VRF

system.

1.3. History

Variable refrigerant flow (VRF), also known as variable refrigerant volume (VRV), is an

HVAC technology and was invented in 1982. Like ductless mini splits VRFs use

refrigerant as the cooling and heating medium. The refrigerant is conditioned by a single

outdoor unit and is circulated within the building to multiple fan-coil units (FCUs). VRFs

have become popular in many countries like Korea, China, India, Italy and America. The

technology reached European market in 1987. In Japan, 50% of medium-sized

commercial buildings are using this technique and one third of large commercial

buildings also. Commented [MM2]: Reference?

1.4. Organisation of the Report

Chapter 1 describes our motivation, aim and objectives. Further we have discussed

history of VRF systems. It also focuses on the advantages and applications of VRF

systems. Space layout of VRF system is also discussed in this chapter.

Chapter 2 includes literature review in which daily, monthly and seasonal load

calculations are discussed with graphical explanation, various aspects of VRF system,

comparison of RTU systems against VRF systems, Variation of COP and compressor

power input with change of dry bulb and wet bulb temperature, Comparison of water

17
cooled condenser VRF system and air-cooled condenser VRF system, Variation of

overall power input to the system with change of DB and WB is also included.

Chapter 3 includes the detailed calculations, methods and results obtained. The results

are obtained by applying the factors in the load calculation of Conventional HVAC

system and the design parameters for latest VRF system.

Chapter 4 includes designing of the system, after the load calculations, the AutoCAD

drawing of the building is now modified according to the results obtained by VRF

system. A set of piping system, drains and refrigerant flow structure is illustrated in the

drawing.

Chapter 5 includes the cost analysis of the system, to answer the questions that why this

system is a better choice, how it can affect the cost. The detailed cost analysis including

installation cost and running cost is explain in this chapter. The estimated cost of all

systems and the bar graphs of every system is also shown.

Chapter 6 includes the final conclusions after the installation of the system, the

suggestions which affect the future designing of not only the system but also the basic

design of the building.

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1.5. Variable Refrigerant flow

1.5.1. Introduction

Variable refrigerant flow (VRF) systems were introduced in japan more than 20 years

ago. Now they have become popular in many countries. Many HVAC professionals are

familiar with ductless mini-split products. A variation of this product is referred to as a

multi-split, which includes multiple indoor evaporators connected to a single outdoor

condensing unit. Ductless products are different from the ducted system in a sense that

heat is transferred to or from the space by circulating refrigerant to evaporators located

near or within the conditioned space. While in conventional systems heat is transferred

by using air or water in the ducts.

VRF systems are larger capacity and complex versions of multi-split systems. In VRFs

we require a separate ventilation system because they don’t have any.

In VRF systems we control the amount of refrigerant flowing to each of the evaporator.

1.5.2. VRF benefits

1.5.2.1. Installation advantages

VRF system are light weight and modular. Each module can be transported easily.

In case where operable windows are present, VRF systems are also particularly suitable

for retrofitting historical buildings without disturbing the older structure.

Finally, because condensing units are placed outside, we don’t need a machine room to

place them [7].

1.5.2.2. Design Flexibility

19
A single outdoor unit can be connected to many indoor units. Current products enable up

to 20 indoor units to be supplied by a single condensing unit. Modularity also makes it

easy to adapt HVAC system to expansion or reconfiguration of the space [7].

1.5.2.3. Maintenance and Commissioning

VRF systems are aiming towards near plug-and-play commissioning. Because they are

DX systems, maintenance cost for a VRF should be lower than for water-cooled chillers,

so water treatment issues are avoided. Normally maintenance for a VRF consists mainly

of changing filters and cleaning coils.

1.5.2.4. Energy Efficiency

The energy efficiency of VRF systems derives from several factors. VRF eliminates duct

losses. VRF system typically include two or three compressors, one of which is variable

speed, in each condensing unit, enabling wide capacity modulation.

HVAC systems typically spend most of their operating hours in the range of 40% to 80%

of maximum capacity [7].

1.5.2.5. Comfort

VRF systems use variable speed compressors with wide capacity modulation

capabilities, they can maintain precise temperature control, generally within ±1oF

(±0.6oC), according to manufacturers’ literature [8].

1.5.2.6. First Cost

Installation costs for VRF systems are highly variable, project dependent and difficult to

pin down. Installed costs for VRF systems are estimated to be 5% to 20% higher than for

chilled water systems [8].

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1.5.3. Space layout

Understanding of base layout is important in designing of VRF system. Type of load

(heating or cooling) and the distribution of loads into different zones depends on the

intended use of the space. These factors determine whether a heat pump or heat recovery

system will be the most efficient choice [8].

Figure shows a typical space layout of VRF system.

Figure 1: Space layout of VRF system [8]

1.5.4. Applications

VRF systems are best suited to buildings with diverse, multiple zones requiring

individual control like office buildings, hospitals, or hotels. A VRF system does not

compete well with rooftop systems in a large low-rise building such as a big box retail

store. Although VRF heat pumps operate at ambient temperatures as low as 0oF (-18o C),

21
as in all heat pumps, their efficiency drops off considerably at low temperatures, so they

are less cost effective compared to gas heating in very cold climates [7].

22
Chapter 2

2. Literature Review

2.1. Introduction

Yong Park et al. [2] studied experimental evaluation and simulation of variable

refrigerant flow system with air processing unit.

Systematic diagram of variable refrigerant system for a test building is shown below.

Multiple indoor units can be linked to a single outdoor unit. Similar to vapour

compression cycle, the basic principles are compression, condensation, expansion and

evaporation. In cooling mode, the indoor units act as evaporators and refrigerant flowing

through the piping is evaporated by absorbing heat from the surrounding environment.

In heating mode, the indoor units act as condensers and heat is removed by the refrigerant

to the inside air. VRF system is controlled by electronic expansion valves, DC inverters

and variable speed compressors that are used to control the amount refrigerant in each

zone according to the requirement.

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 Figure 2: Schematic Diagram of VRF system [2]

Cooling power of variable refrigerant flow system depends on many factors like part load

conditions, indoor conditions, outdoor conditions, parameters of cooling water,

combination ratio etc. and each factor is dependant so correct calculation of cooling

power of system is quite difficult.

The figure 2 (a) and (c) shows the maintenance of the temperature at the specific set point

i.e. (20,26oC) in both seasons summer and winter. Figure 2 (b) shows the maintenance

of the humidity from 40 to 70% in every room except room C. In Figure 2 (d), the

humidity is maintained up to 30 to 45% and slightly less humidity in afternoon. Commented [MM3]: Reference

24
 Figure 3: Indoor simulated temperature and relative humidity of VRF system in different zones: (a)

temperature in summer, (b) relative humidity in summer, (c) temperature in winter, (d) relative humidity

in winter [2]

Figure 3 shows the graphical relation between the temperature distribution and the ERV

(Energy Recovery Ventilator) power at indoor measurement points in winter. The ERV

power indicates that system operated 4 times a weekday and outdoor air was introduced

whenever the system operated. During this outside temperature of the air decreased up

to 5oC and indoor temperature in increased from 17oC to 19.5oC with the help of heat

exchanger.

25
 Figure 4: Variation of indoor temperature during measurement on heating design day [2]

2.2. HVAC:

HVAC stands for heating, ventilation and air conditioning of any desired indoor place, it

accounts for thermal comfort, indoor air quality and cleanliness using basic principles of

refrigeration.

In this modern world where comfort is main purpose of every system, HVAC systems

are now designed with proper care to satisfy the comfort level in challenging

environments like DUBAI. HVAC applications range from small houses to office

buildings, automobiles, hospitals and skyscrapers.

2.3. HVAC systems:

There exist a number of HVAC systems that are used to fulfil requirements of human

comfort and energy needs, some of them are given below;

26
 i. The split system

ii. The hybrid system

iii. Packaged heating and air conditioning system

iv. Heat pumps

v. Chillers/boilers

vi. Variable refrigerant flow system

The brief description of each system is given below:

2.3.1. The split system:

The split system is the air conditioning system that uses four components, compressor,

condenser, evaporator and expansion device. Usually compressor and condenser are

combined into a single unit called condensing unit. Condensing unit is installed outside

of the building and evaporator is installed inside the building. Outdoor unit is attached

with indoor unit with the help of piping system. Refrigerant (410-A or R-22) flows in

piping system and two refrigerant lines, one for gas and one for liquid, connect the indoor

with outdoor unit.

2.3.1.1. Advantages:

 Flexible in capacity, from houses to industrial applications

 These are reliable, simple and easy to install.

 These systems are economical

2.3.1.2. Cost:

These systems require more energy in form of electricity (high running cost) but their

installation and maintenance cost low as compared to the water chiller systems.

27
2.3.2. The hybrid system:

This system is basically used for space heating requirements and uses air source heat

pump (ASHP) or ground source heat pump (GSHP) with a gas (propane) furnace that’s

why it is often called as dual fuel system. As compared to the heat pump it is more energy

efficient, good control over thermal comfort and low carbon footprint on the

environment.

2.3.3. Energy Consumption and cost:

Hybrid systems comprising of ASHP and high efficiency propane furnace reduce running

cost and saves energy upto $ 300 per annum and its life is almost 10-15 years.

2.3.3.1. Packaged heating and air conditioning:

The split systems are used for small cooling or heating loads; the central air conditioning

systems are used for where loads extend upto 30 tons. As the name indicates, all

necessary components of systems like compressor, condenser, cooling coil, air filter and

air handling unit are contained in a single casing.

2.3.3.2. Packaged air conditioners pros:

 When there is insufficient attic space, these systems find perfect application for

this purpose

 System is dynamic

2.3.3.3. Packaged air conditioners cons:

 They are mounted on the roof of building so care should be exercised otherwise

it can get leaked.

28
  Complexity increases due to mounting of packaged system on the roof of the

building.

2.3.4. Heat Pumps:

Heat pump is an electrical device that is used to transfer heat from low temperature region

to high temperature at the expense of compressor power input. Refrigerators and air

conditioners are example of this type.

The basic components of this system are compressor, condenser, expansion valve and

evaporator.

2.3.4.1. Chillers:

Chiller air conditioning systems uses chilled water as a refrigerant in vapor compression

or vapor absorption system. Chilled water is transmitted to terminal units like air

handling units that contain heat exchanger that cools down the temperature of desired

space and also dehumidifies it. Heat absorbed from the space is rejected to environment

with the help of water-cooled or air-cooled condensers. Its application range varies from

15-2000 tons.

2.3.4.2. Cost:

Air conditioners are costlier per ton of cooling than chillers because they are smaller in

scale and fixed cost is large in this case. If you buy an air conditioner for 1-ton load, it

will cost of $1000 but if you buy a 5-ton air conditioner it will cost almost $3,200, thus

reducing cost per ton of cooling.

2.3.5. Fan Coil Units:

29
Fan coil unit is simple device that consists of heat exchanger or coils, two main types are

blow through and draw through. Hot or cold flow in coils depending on whether the room

is to be cooled down or heated. It acts as a chiller when they are operated on cooling

mode and act as boiler when operated on heating mode.

In blow through fan coil units, fans are fitted before heat exchangers and in draw through

fan coil units, fans are installed after heat exchangers. Draw through fan coil units are

thermally superior but are costlier than blow through fan coil units.

2.3.6. Variable refrigerant flow system:

Variable refrigerant flow system is the modified split system that controls the amount of

refrigerant flowing in the system according to the load of a space. For varying loads and

for multiple zones, this system is preferred over majority of systems that have been

discussed so far.

This system is dynamic in its working i.e. this system can be used for buildings where

cooling and heating are required simultaneously.

2.3.6.1. Working:

This technology uses various indoor units that are connected to a single outdoor unit.

Variable speed compressors are operated at the outdoor unit and their speed depends on

the space cooling or heating load. Each indoor is equipped with metering device

(thermostat) that send signals to outdoor unit and hence outdoor unit provides the

necessary amount of refrigerant to indoor unit.

2.3.6.2. Advantages:

30
  Control means comfort: In conventional systems, the compressors are either on

or off, so the spaces that require individual controls face fluctuations in

temperature control within space. But in case of VRF systems, compressors are

inverter-driven and don’t go in on-off conditions. Once the required quantity of

refrigerant is provided to the room, this set point is maintained for longer periods

of time.

 Design flexibility: VRF systems are much flexible in controlling load of space.

Conventional split systems are available in only discrete tons (1,2,3,5 etc.) but in

VRF, multiple types of fan coil units are available to suit any application (1.3, 2.7

tons etc.).

 Energy savings: As we know VRF system controls speed of compressor

according to the cooling load requirements so VRF system is energy efficient

system.

 Cost effective installation: As compared to all systems, installation of VRF

system may be a cost-effective solution.

2.4. Refrigerants:

Refrigerant is liquid that is used as heat transferring fluid, it takes heat at low temperature

and pressure and expels heat at high pressure and temperature.

2.4.1. Types:

There are two types of refrigerants namely;

i. Primary refrigerant

ii. Secondary refrigerant

31
2.4.1.1. Primary refrigerant: Directly participates in heat transfer

Examples: Carbon dioxide (CO2), Sulphur dioxide (SO2), Methyl Chloride (CH3Cl) and

Freon group.

2.4.1.2. Secondary refrigerant: These refrigerants are firstly cooled by primary

refrigerants and then participates in cooling.

Examples: Ice, Brine and solid Carbon dioxide

2.4.2. Refrigerant Blends:

Two or more refrigerants are mixed together to achieve following properties;

 Flammability

 Volumetric capacity

 Limit discharge superheating

 Low discharge temperature

2.4.3. Types of refrigerant blends:

i. Zeotropes

ii. Azeotropes

Zeotropes: these mixtures are formed by mixing components having different boiling

points. Their bubble and dew point curve don’t intersect each other.

Azeotropes: these mixtures have same boiling points irrespective of the distillation of

one component. The chemical composition of mixture remains unaltered.

2.4.4. Desirable properties of refrigerants:

2.4.4.1. Thermodynamic properties:

32
  Low boiling point

 Low freezing point

 High latent heat

2.4.4.2. Chemical properties:

 Non-toxic

 Non-flammable

 Non-corrosive

2.4.4.3. Physical Properties:

 Low specific volume

 Low specific heat

 Low viscosity

 High thermal conductivity

2.4.5. ASHRAE STANDARD 34:

Table 1 Nomenclature

000 Series Methane Based

100 Series Ethane Based

200 Series Propane Based

300 Series Cyclic Organic Compounds

400 Series Zeotropes

500 Series Azeotropes

600 Series Organic Compounds

33
 700 Series Inorganic Compounds

1000 Series Unsaturated Organic Compounds

2.4.6. Selected Refrigerant (R410a):

Table 2 It is blend of HFC compounds, known as PURON, and its composition

Composition (%) Refrigerant

50 R32

50 R125

2.4.6.1. Properties:

 No Chlorine contents

 No ozone depletion potential (ODP= 0)

 Modest global warming potential (GWP= 1890)

 Non-toxic

 They don’t show flame propagation.

 It is zeotropic blend.

 More efficient than R-22 in both liquid and vapor phase.

 They require less volume flow rates on operation than R-22.

 More thermal stable than R-22

34
Chapter 3

3. Calculations and Results

3.1. Introduction

VRF system has a vast application in the sector of HVAC and it proves to be a better

system in comparison of conventional system. To get the practical knowledge and results

we contacted an HVAC company and with collaboration with that company we worked

in designing of VRF system of an office building. Our work included:

 Conventional Load calculation of the building.

 VRF load calculation of the building

 Cost analysis

 Installation of the system

3.2. Approach

To complete the above-mentioned work, the following software and work environment

is necessary to complete the job.

 Hourly Analysis Program (HAP) for conventional calculation.

 JCI (Johnsons Control Inc.) for VRF calculations.

All these calculations are explained in the next topics.

35
3.3. Conventional Load Calculation

3.3.1. Design weather parameters and MSHGs:

Design Parameters:

City Name Lahore

Location Pakistan

Latitude 31.5 Deg.

Longitude 74.4 Deg.

Elevation 217.0 ft

Summer Design Dry-Bulb 100.0 °F

Summer Coincident Wet-Bulb 82.0 °F

Summer Daily Range 14.0 °F

Winter Design Dry-Bulb 49.0 °F

Winter Design Wet-Bulb 41.1 °F

Atmospheric Clearness Number 1.00

Average Ground Reflectance 0.20

Soil Conductivity 0.800 BTU/ (hr-ft-°F)

Local Time Zone (GMT +/- N hours) -5.0 hours

Consider Daylight Savings Time No

Current Data is User Modified

Design Cooling Months March to October

3.3.2. Design Day Maximum Solar Heat Gains

(The MSHG values are expressed in BTU/(hr-ft²))

36
 Table 3 Solar Heat Gain

Month N NNE NE ENE E ESE SE SSE S

January 23.7 23.7 24.7 109.1 176.9 226.8 251.7 251.5 244.4

February 27.5 27.5 66.3 147.6 210.2 239.6 248.9 231.9 218.3

March 31.5 34.0 116.2 177.7 225.9 241.9 224.2 192.5 172.1

April 35.5 74.1 151.8 202.8 222.9 218.6 185.3 137.6 111.0

May 39.0 107.0 172.0 211.4 219.0 196.8 153.9 96.6 70.7

June 50.1 118.2 178.7 211.8 213.2 187.0 138.9 80.0 57.7

July 40.0 108.3 170.8 206.7 211.6 193.8 148.9 92.7 68.6

August 37.1 76.0 148.2 194.8 214.2 211.5 177.6 132.0 106.8

September 32.7 32.7 109.2 172.3 211.4 230.8 215.1 185.8 168.3

October 28.3 28.3 67.5 141.0 198.1 235.5 236.7 222.9 212.7

November 24.1 24.1 31.2 99.6 176.6 223.5 247.5 246.6 241.5

December 21.9 21.9 21.9 90.4 163.5 215.6 248.5 254.2 249.5

Month SSW SW WSW W WNW NW NNW HOR Mult

January 250.9 252.1 225.6 180.0 103.9 30.6 23.7 177.6 1.00

February 229.8 245.7 244.3 206.9 145.1 70.5 27.5 218.1 1.00

March 191.2 223.6 241.7 222.5 182.2 116.1 31.5 252.0 1.00

April 136.8 184.2 219.5 221.9 201.6 152.3 76.0 270.0 1.00

May 95.5 152.9 198.6 216.0 210.5 173.1 108.5 275.9 1.00

June 79.9 138.8 187.3 212.8 211.7 178.9 118.7 274.7 1.00

July 93.4 149.5 192.8 213.6 207.4 170.3 106.4 271.8 1.00

August 132.1 177.7 211.5 214.0 195.0 148.2 75.8 264.0 1.00

September 187.4 216.9 230.1 216.3 169.6 107.6 34.2 244.3 1.00

October 225.1 240.6 231.6 200.8 143.8 59.5 28.3 214.6 1.00

November 247.3 246.4 224.7 170.0 107.6 27.0 24.1 177.1 1.00

December 254.2 247.8 217.5 161.1 91.8 21.9 21.9 159.1 1.00

Mult. = User-defined solar multiplier factor.

37
3.3.3. Spaces:

In our case there are 3 stories and 45 spaces, whose dimensions we took manually and

inserted in HAP to calculate the individual cooling load and then combined them to single

building’s cooling load.

Stories = 3

Spaces = 45

3.3.4. Default System Input Data:

3.3.4.1. 1. General Details:

Air System Name Default System

Equipment Type Split AHU

Air System Type Single Zone CAV

Number of zones 1

3.3.4.2. System Components:

Ventilation Air Data:

Airflow Control Constant Ventilation Airflow

Ventilation Sizing Method Sum of Space OA Airflows

Unocc. Damper Position Closed

Damper Leak Rate 0%

Outdoor Air CO2 Level 400ppm

38
Humidification Data:

Minimum RH Setpoint 30 %

Humidifier Type Direct Steam Injection

Dehumidification Data:

Maximum RH Setpoint 60 %

Central Cooling Data:

Supply Air Temperature 58.0 °F

Coil Bypass Factor 0.100

Cooling Source Air-Cooled DX

Schedule JFMAMJJASOND

Capacity Control Staged Compressor - Fan On

Central Heating Data:

Supply Temperature 110.0 °F

Heating Source Electric Resistance

Schedule JFMAMJJASOND

Capacity Control Staged Compressor - Fan On

Supply Fan Data:

Fan Type Forward Curved

Configuration Draw-thru
39
Fan Performance 0.00 in wg

Overall Efficiency 54 %

Duct System Data:

 Supply Duct Data:

Duct Heat Gain 0%

Duct Leakage 0%

 Return Duct or Plenum Data:

Return Air Via Ducted Return

3.3.5. Zone Components:

3.3.5.1. Thermostats and Zone Data:

Zone All

Cooling T-stat: Occ. 75.0 °F

Cooling T-stat: Unocc. 85.0 °F

Heating T-stat: Occ. 70.0 °F

Heating T-stat: Unocc. 60.0 °F

T-stat Throttling Range 3.00 °F

Diversity Factor 100 %

Direct Exhaust Airflow 0.0 CFM

Direct Exhaust Fan kW 0.0 kW

40
Thermostat Schedule thermostat

Unoccupied Cooling is Available

Supply Terminals Data:

Zone All

Terminal Type Diffuser

Minimum Airflow 0.00 CFM/person

Zone Heating Units:

Zone All

Zone Heating Unit Type None

Zone Unit Heat Source Electric Resistance

Zone Heating Unit Schedule JFMAMJJASOND

3.3.6. Sizing Data (Computer-Generated):

System Sizing Data:

Cooling Supply Temperature 58.0 °F

Supply Fan Airflow 302448.5 CFM

Ventilation Airflow 3525.3 CFM

Heating Supply Temperature 110.0 °F

Hydronic Sizing Specifications:

41
Chilled Water Delta-T 10.0 °F

Hot Water Delta-T 20.0 °F

Safety Factors:

Cooling Sensible 0%

Cooling Latent 0%

Heating 0%

Zone Sizing Data:

Zone Airflow Sizing Method Sum of space airflow rates

Space Airflow Sizing Method Individual peak space loads

Supply Airflow (CFM) 302448.5

3.3.7. Equipment Data

Central Cooling Unit - Air-Cooled DX

Estimated Maximum Load 3163.9 MBH

Design OAT 95.0 °F

Gross Cooling Capacity 1.0 MBH

Compressor & OD Fan Power 1.00 kW

Conventional Cutoff OAT 55.0 °F

Low Temperature Operation Not Used

42
3.3.8. Air System Sizing Summary for Default System:

Air System Information

Air System Name Default System Number of Zones 1

Equipment Class SPLT AHU Floor Area 16227.6 ft²

Air System Type SZCAV Location Lahore, Pakistan

Sizing Calculation Information Zone and Space Sizing Method

Zone CFM Sum of Space airflow rates Calculation Months Mar to Oct

Space CFM Individual peak space loads Sizing Data Calculated

Central Cooling Coil Sizing Data

Total Coil Load 263.7 Tons Load occurs at OA Jul 1800 102.5 /

DB / WB 70.7 °F

Total Coil load 3163.9 MBH Entering DB / WB 86.0 / 65.6 °F

Sensible coil load 3163.9 MBH Leaving DB / WB 58.0 / 55.6 °F

Coil CFM at July 1800 105540 CFM Coil ADP 54.9 °F

Max block CFM 302449 CFM Bypass Factor 0.100

Sum of peak zone FCM 302449 CFM Resulting RH 34 %

Sensible heat ratio 1.000 Design supply temp. 58.0 °F

ft²/Ton 61.5 Water flow @ 10.0 °F N/A

rise
BTU/(hr-ft²) 195.0 Max zone 8.0 °F
Temperature
deviation

43
 Central Cooling Coil Sizing Data

Max Coil Load 486.4 MBH Load occurs at Des Htg

Coil CFM at Des Htg 302449 CFM Entering DB / WB 69.8 / 71.3 °F

Max coil CFM at Des Htg 302449 CFM BTU/(hr-ft²) 30.0

Humidifier Sizing Date

Max steam flow at Des Htg 26.15 lb/hr Airflow Rate 302449 CFM

Outdoor Ventilation Air Data

Design airflow CFM 3525 CFM CFM/person 17.90

CFM/ ft2 0.22 CFM/ ft2

3.3.9. Zone Sizing Summary for Default

Air System Information

Air System Name Default System Number of Zones 1

Equipment Class SPLT AHU Floor Area 16227.6 ft²

Air System Type SZCAV Location Lahore, Pakistan

Sizing Calculation Information Zone and Space Sizing Method

Zone CFM Sum of Space airflow rates Air mass flow 1350379.00 lb/hr

Space CFM Individual peak space loads Moisture gain 0.00002 lb/lb

44
3.3.10. Zone Sizing Data

Table 4 Zone Sizing

Maximum Cooling Design Air Minimum Air Time of Maximum Zone Floor Zone
Zone
Sensible (MBH) Flow Flow Peak Load Heating Load Area CFM/ft²

1 5509.0 302449 CFM 302449 MBH Jul 1800 372.1 MBH 16227.6 ft² 18.64

Table 5 Space Loads and Airflows

Cooling Sensible Air Flow Heating Load Floor Area Space

Space Name Mult. Time of Load
(MBH) (CFM) (MBH) (ft²) CFM/ft²

F-G 1 398.7 Jul 1800 21888 29.8 1821.1 12.02

F-R1 1 97.4 Jul 1800 5347 7.4 246.2 21.72

F-R10 1 156.5 Jul 1800 8589 11.4 600.0 14.31

F-R11 1 99.3 Jul 1800 5451 6.6 267.3 20.39

F-R12 1 100.0 Jul 1800 5488 6.6 271.3 20.23

F-R13 1 77.3 Jul 1800 4243 4.5 162.6 26.10

F-R14 1 78.6 Jul 1800 4316 5.0 199.6 21.63

F-R2 1 72.6 Jul 1800 3987 4.4 145.0 27.50

F-R3 1 121.2 Jul 1800 6651 8.8 377.4 17.62

45
 Cooling Sensible Air Flow Heating Load Floor Area Space
Space Name Mult. Time of Load
(MBH) (CFM) (MBH) (ft²) CFM/ft²

F-R3(adj) 1 124.5 Jul 1800 6835 4.9 80.0 85.43

F-R4 1 101.0 Aug 1800 5543 8.8 344.8 16.08

F-R5 1 75.1 Aug 1800 4121 4.5 150.9 27.31

F-R6 1 85.0 Jul 1800 4667 5.4 194.5 24.00

F-R7 1 58.8 Jul 1800 3226 2.8 92.4 34.92

F-R8 1 99.8 Jul 1800 5478 6.2 267.3 20.49

F-R9 1 130.0 Jul 1800 7138 9.2 429.5 16.62

G-G 1 538.5 Jul 1800 29564 42.5 2464.7 11.99

G-R1 1 122.4 Jul 1800 6721 7.7 230.0 29.22

G-R10 1 59.6 Jul 1800 3274 4.3 158.0 20.72

G-R11 1 82.0 Jul 1800 4503 5.0 122.7 36.70

G-R12 1 88.9 Aug 1800 4881 6.5 188.9 25.84

G-R2 1 95.8 Jul 1800 5259 5.0 168.5 31.21

G-R3 1 114.0 Jul 1800 6256 7.3 239.0 26.18

G-R4 1 113.0 Jul 1800 6202 7.3 234.5 26.45

G-R5 1 141.3 Jul 1800 7756 8.8 357.2 21.71

46
 Cooling Sensible Air Flow Heating Load Floor Area Space
Space Name Mult. Time of Load
(MBH) (CFM) (MBH) (ft²) CFM/ft²

G-R6 1 111.6 Jul 1800 6124 6.8 229.6 26.67

G-R7 1 112.0 Jul 1800 6149 7.0 229.6 26.78

G-R8 1 111.6 Jul 1800 6125 6.8 229.6 26.68

G-R9 1 64.6 Aug 1800 3547 3.4 75.3 47.11

S-G 1 398.7 Jul 1800 21888 29.8 1821.1 12.02

S-R1 1 97.4 Jul 1800 5347 7.4 246.2 21.72

S-R10 1 156.5 Jul 1800 8591 11.4 600.0 14.32

S-R11 1 99.3 Jul 1800 5453 6.6 267.3 20.40

S-R12 1 100.0 Jul 1800 5488 6.6 271.3 20.23

S-R13 1 77.8 Jul 1800 4268 4.4 162.6 26.25

S-R14 1 78.6 Jul 1800 4316 5.0 199.6 21.63

S-R2 1 72.6 Jul 1800 3987 4.4 145.0 27.50

S-R3 1 121.2 Jul 1800 6651 8.8 377.4 17.62

S-R3(adj) 1 124.5 Jul 1800 6835 4.9 80.0 85.43

S-R4 1 101.0 Aug 1800 5543 8.8 344.8 16.08

S-R5 1 75.1 Aug 1800 4121 4.5 150.9 27.31

47
 Cooling Sensible Air Flow Heating Load Floor Area Space
Space Name Mult. Time of Load
(MBH) (CFM) (MBH) (ft²) CFM/ft²

S-R6 1 85.0 Jul 1800 4667 5.4 194.5 24.00

S-R7 1 60.9 Aug 1800 3346 3.4 92.6 36.13

S-R8 1 99.8 Jul 1800 5478 6.2 267.3 20.49

S-R9 1 130.1 Jul 1800 7140 9.2 429.5 16.62

3.3.11. Air System Design Load Summary for Default System:

Table 6 Load Summary

Design Cooling (BTU/hr) Design Heating (BTU/hr)

ZONE LOADS Details Sensible Latent Details Sensible Latent

Window & Sun light Loads 2393 ft² 90906 - 2393 ft² - -

Wall Transmission 30081 ft² 158910 - 30081 ft² 158282 -

Roof Transmission 16642 ft² 174548 - 16642 ft² 128198 -

Window Transmission 2393 ft² 74910 - 2393 ft² 75793 -

Skylight Transmission 0 ft² 0 - 0 ft² 0 -

Door Loads 1263 ft² 9737 - 1263 ft² 9852 -

Floor Transmission 1786 ft² 0 - 1786 ft² 0 -

Partitions 0 ft² 0 - 0 ft² 0 -

48
Ceiling 0 ft² 0 - 0 ft² 0 -

Overhead Lighting 0W 12756 - 0 0 -

Task Lighting 0W 0 - 0 0 -

Electric Equipment 0W 7215 - 0 0 -

People 0 15837 0 0 0 0

Infiltration - 4964216 -26 - 0 0

Miscellaneous - 0 0 - 0 0

Safety Factor 0% / 0% 0 0 0% 0 0

>> Total Zone Loads - 5509036 -26 - 372125 0

Zone Conditioning - 3163892 -26 - 387874 0

Plenum Wall Load 0% 0 - 0 0 -

Plenum Roof Load 0% 0 - 0 0 -

Plenum Lighting Load 0% 0 - 0 0 -

Return Fan Load 302449 CFM 0 - 302449 CFM 0 -

Ventilation Load 0 CFM 0 0 3525 CFM 98499 27582

Supply Fan Load 105540 CFM 0 - 302449 CFM 0 -

Space Fan Coil Fans - 0 - - 0 -

Duct Heat Gain / Loss 0% 0 - 0% 0 -

>> Total System Loads - 3163892 -26 - 486373 27582

Central Cooling Coil - 3163892 0 - 0 0

49
 Central Heating Coil - 0 - - 486374 -

Humidification Load - - 0 - - 27582

>> Total Conditioning - 3163892 0 - 486374 27582

Key: Positive values are clg loads Positive values are htg loads

Negative values are htg loads Negative values are clg loads

3.3.12. Psychrometric Analysis for Default system

Location: Lahore, Pakistan

Altitude: 217.0 ft.
Data for: July DESIGN COOLING DAY, 1800
0.020
1. Central Cooling Coil Outlet
2. Supply Fan Outlet
3. Room Air
0.018

0.016
Specific Humidity ( lb/lb )

0.014

0.012

12 3
0.010

0.008

0.006

0.004

0.002

0.000
30 40 50 60 70 80 90 100
Temperature ( °F )

Figure 5 Psychrometric Analysis

50
3.4. VRF Load Calculation

3.4.1. Introduction

After the completion of conventional load calculation, the data is entered into the JCI

This software helps to get the details of the equipment which are required.

3.4.2. JCI (Johnsons Control Inc.)

Johnson control is the licensed software by York® to select the VRF systems according

to load calculation of a building. This software has built in features and specifications of

the indoor and outdoor units which are provided by York® company. JCI has specified

length of the piping and the pump specification if needed. It has built in specific VRF

systems and modules which are York® company specific.

Johnson control divides the system in different specific modules according to the

specifications of systems (Tonnage). For the same system, there may be different number

of modules (can be two or three) according to the requirement of the indoor units to be

installed.

3.4.3. Features

JCI has the features of completing of a project in the following manner:

1. Selecting the project name

2. Indoor unit tagging; Giving a tag number to the indoor unit making it easy to

recognize later such as 12 (First floor 2nd unit).

3. Selecting the series version; This will define that whether the system will be two

phases or three phase such as “Amazon Standard Ambient VRF- 380V” (Amazon

is a series and 380 V shows that its three phase).

51
4. Selecting the Family of indoor units; There may be several families of indoor unit

like cassettes, wall mounted, Floor mounted and ceiling concealed. In our case

these are four ways cassettes.

5. Selecting the model; model available by York® are to be selected in this phase.

Numerical numbers in these model names show the cooling capacity of the indoor

unit model in Kilowatts that may be converted in tonnage by simple conversion

(1 Tonnage = 3.517KW). For example, Model name LINX071H0PS0AS shows

this system has 7.1KW (2.0 Tonnage) of cooling capacity.

6. Remote controls; In this, we select which type of controlling we are expecting

that may be wireless remote control or app control.

7. Selecting Pump; Pump may be required for draining the water for long distance

8. Selecting outdoor unit; selecting the condensing unit name and selecting the

indoor unit by dragging and dropping.

9. Checking the Actual combination ratio; this ratio gives us out door unit capacity

according to the indoor unit capacity. In VRF system, at 100% indoor unit

capacity we have to install almost 85% of outdoor unit capacity to meet the

requirement i.e. for 10 tonnage of indoor unit capacity that may be divided in 10

rooms (1 tonnage each) we may require an 8.5 tonnage outdoor unit. This will

decrease the electrical expenses and space.

𝑂𝑢𝑡𝑑𝑜𝑜𝑟
𝐴𝑐𝑡𝑢𝑎𝑙 𝑐𝑜𝑚𝑏𝑖𝑛𝑎𝑡𝑖𝑜𝑛 𝑅𝑎𝑡𝑖𝑜 =
𝐼𝑛𝑑𝑜𝑜𝑟

𝑇𝑜𝑡𝑎𝑙 𝐿𝑜𝑎𝑑
𝑂𝑢𝑡𝑑𝑜𝑜𝑟 𝑈𝑛𝑖𝑡 =
𝐴𝑐𝑡𝑢𝑎𝑙 𝐿𝑜𝑎𝑑

52
  Piping and Wiring; In this phase, a piping diagram and wiring diagram, as pipes

and wires are linked together, is generated. This diagram will show indoor units

connected to the outdoor unit with divider attached.

3.4.4. Results and List of Products

Table 7 Project Information

Project Name: LHR VRF CUSTOMIZE Sales Engineer Name: NA

Sold To: NA Region: ME_T3A

Location: Chauburji, Lahore

The details of the quantity of indoor as well as outdoor units which we required in the

installation of VRF system in the building is given below in the tables.

53
 3.4.5. Indoor Unit List

Table 8 Indoor Unit List

Rated Rated
Air
Cooling Heating PI Depth Width Height Weight
Indoor Unit Model UnitType Qty Flow
Capacity Capacity

Ton Ton W cfm inch inch inch kg

Four Way
LINX071H0PS0AS 12 2.0 2.4 150 955 950 950 288 29
Cassette

Four Way
LINX056H0PS0AS 7 1.6 1.8 80 778 950 950 288 28
Cassette

Four Way
LINX112H0PS0AS 28 3.2 3.6 180 1,308 950 950 338 33
Cassette

Four Way
LINX160H0PS0AS 14 4.6 5.1 200 1,308 950 950 338 33
Cassette

Four Way
LINX040H0PS0AS 2 1.1 1.4 60 743 950 950 288 28
Cassette

54
 3.4.6. Outdoor Unit List

Table 9 Outdoor Unit list

Rated Rated
Max Air
Outdoor Unit Cooling Heating PI Depth Width Height
Product Type Qty PI Flow
Model Cap. Cap.

Ton Ton kW kW cfm inch inch inch

MAXIMA Commercial VRF 25. 34. 20,

1 28.4 31.9 765 3630 1720
120VPEM0AS*3 HP, MAXIMA -S
44 66 687

MAXIMA Commercial VRF

120VPEM0AS*2 HP, MAXIMA -S 29. 19,

1 25.6 28.4 22 765 3630 1720
+ MAXIMA 56 449
080VPEM0AS

MAXIMA Commercial VRF

120VPEM0AS+ HP, MAXIMA -S

MAXIMA 20. 28. 18,

1 24.2 27.0 765 3630 1720
100VPEM0AS+ 07 09 742
MAXIMA

080VPEM0AS

MAXIMA Commercial VRF

100VPEM0AS+ HP, MAXIMA -S 16. 22. 17,

1 20.8 23.5 765 3630 1720
MAXIMA 11 91 504
080VPEM0AS*2

MAXIMA Commercial VRF 25. 34. 20,

1 28.4 31.9 765 3630 1720
120VPEM0AS*3 HP, MAXIMA -S
44 66 687

MAXIMA Commercial VRF 25. 34. 20,

1 28.4 31.9 765 3630 1720
120VPEM0AS*3 HP, MAXIMA -S
44 66 687

55
MAXIMA Commercial VRF 25. 34. 20,
1 28.4 31.9 765 3630 1720
120VPEM0AS*3 HP, MAXIMA -S
44 66 687

MAXIMA Commercial VRF

120VPEM0AS+ HP, MAXIMA -S

MAXIMA 20. 28. 18,

1 24.2 27.0 765 3630 1720
100VPEM0AS+ 07 09 742
MAXIMA

080VPEM0AS

3.4.7. Accessories List

Table 10 Accessories List

Indoor Model Accessory Type Accessory Model Qty

LINX071H0PS0AS Air Panel JP-AP160NA1 12

LINX056H0PS0AS Air Panel JP-AP160NA1 7

LINX112H0PS0AS Air Panel JP-AP160NA1 28

LINX160H0PS0AS Air Panel JP-AP160NA1 14

LINX040H0PS0AS Air Panel JP-AP160NA1 2

56
3.4.8. Piping Connection Kit

Table 11 Piping Connection Kit

Model Qty

JMC-NP30A1 8

3.4.9. Branch Kit

Table 12 Branch Connection Kit

Model Qty

JMW-NP902A2 13

JMW-NP692A2 17

JMW-NP452A2 11

JMW-NP282A2 14

57
Chapter 4

4. Designing of System

4.1. Introduction

Whenever we start something we need a proper plan, if we are designing a system for

real life, before implementing it practical, there is always the need of drawings for better

understanding of the system. The designing of the system is based upon these steps:

 AutoCAD design of the building

 VRF installed design of the building

The basic design and the VRF design both are drawn on the same software.

4.2. Approach

To give a detailed analysis of how this VRF system is going to work, we designing the

piping system of the building and emerged this design on the AutoCAD drawing of the

building. The building is a triple storey and the CAD design of these floors are shown in

the next section.

First the actual drawing of the building was designed on AutoCAD 2016. This drawing

includes the complete architectural details of the building involving the all the zones

which needs to be air conditioned.

The modified design if the building not only includes the copper piping, but also includes

the CFM of refrigerant in different parts of the building. To obtain the variable flow of

the fluid, the system is installed with the electronic expansion valves. The detailed design

of the building is shown in next topic.

58
4.3. Designing

All the floors of the building are shown in the drawing below:

Figure 6 Ground Floor

Figure 7 First Floor

59
 Figure 8 Second Floor

4.3.1. Colour Codes

• Orange Drain

• Green Electric Cables

• Green Square Electric Cables

• Blue Copper Pipe

4.4. Plan

4.4.1. Issues

In VRF system and it basically contains only one outdoor unit and several indoor units

but when we were practically implementing the system, there are several constraints

which we have to overcome.

If we install the system with one outdoor unit, it has the problems containing to capacity

of the outdoor unit. This is the biggest problem regarding to the installation of single unit.

60
The size of the building is large and the load value is so high that we cannot go for the

single unit.

The second biggest problem is here regarding to the single unit is related to functioning.

If we have a single unit, the whole HVAC system will dependent on it. And if any issue

appears in the outdoor unit so the whole system will get the break down.

4.4.2. Solution

To overcome this issue, we have designed the whole system on seven outdoor units. This

will maximize the capacity and output of the outdoor unit as well as it can maintain the

output in case of any break down of any one of the outdoor unit.

4.4.3. Design Analysis

The building does not only base on Air Conditioning, ventilation is also a part of the

building which is required in the washrooms and places like this. The washrooms contain

a duct system to ventilate the washrooms with the help of duct systems.

The pentagonal shapes in the drawings are actually terraces which are open from roof

but are covered with sheets to continue the flow of fresh air in the building whenever

needed and this is basically the part of building’s architectural design.

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Chapter 5

5. Cost Analysis

5.1. Energy consumption (Running cost)

Calculations month duration March-October

Total number of working hours in duration (March-October) = 1392 hrs.

Total coil load = 263 TN

5.1.1. Split system:

Energy consumption per ton (TR) = 1.73 KW

Electricity cost per KWh = 15 rupees

So,

Total energy consumption from march to October = 1.73 × 1392× 263 = 633,346.08

KWh

Energy cost = 633,346.08 × 15 = 9,500,191.2 Rupees

5.1.2. Ducted split/Packaged system:

Energy consumption per ton (TR) = 1.62 KW

Electricity cost per KWh = 15 rupees

So,

Total energy consumption from march to October = 1.62 × 1392× 263 =593,075.52

KWh
62
Energy cost = 593,075.52 × 15 = 8,896,132.8 Rupees

5.1.3. Air-cooled chiller system

Energy consumption per ton (TR) = 1.42 KW

Electricity cost per KWh = 15 rupees

So,

Total energy consumption from march to October = 1.42 × 1392× 263 =519,856.32

KWh

Energy cost = 519,856.32 × 15 = 7,797,844.8 Rupees

5.1.4. Water cooled chiller system:

Energy consumption per ton (TR) = 0.93 KW

Electricity cost per KWh = 15 rupees

So,

Total energy consumption from march to October = 0.93 × 1392× 263 = 340,469.28

KWh

Energy cost = 340,469.28 × 15 = 5,107,039.2 Rupees

5.1.5. VRF system:

Energy consumption per ton (TR) = 1.07 KW

Electricity cost per KWh = 15 rupees

So,

63
Total energy consumption from march to October = 1.07 × 1392× 263 = 391,722.72

KWh

Energy cost = 391,722.72 × 15 = 5,875,840.8 Rupees

5.2. Installation Cost

5.2.1. Split system:

Installation cost per ton (TR) = 60,382 Rupees

For cooling load of 263 TR;

Installation cost = 15,880,446 Rupees

5.2.2. Ducted Split/Packaged system

Installation cost per ton (TR) = 87,395Rupees

For cooling load of 263 TR;

Installation cost = 22,984,885 Rupees

5.2.3. Air-cooled chiller system

Installation cost per ton (TR) = 214,515 Rupees

For cooling load of 263 TR;

Installation cost = 56,417,445 Rupees

5.2.4. Water-cooled chiller system

Installation cost per ton (TR) = 270,130 Rupees

For cooling load of 263 TR; Installation cost = 71,044,190 Rupees

64
5.2.5. VRF system:

Installation cost per ton (TR) = 182,735 Rupees

For cooling load of 263 TR;

Installation cost = 48,059,831 Rupees

5.3. Graphical Representation

5.3.1. Installation Cost

The installation cost comparison of different HVAC systems are shown in the graph

below. This will help to analyze, why VRF system is a better choice.

Comparison of Installation Cost of different HVAC

Systems
80,000,000
Installation Cost (rupees)

70,000,000
60,000,000 Split System
50,000,000
Ducted Split System
40,000,000
Air Cooled Chiller System
30,000,000
VRF System
20,000,000
10,000,000 Water-cooled system

0
HVAC systems

Figure 9 Comparison of Installation Cost

65
5.3.2. Running Cost

After the high installation, the VRF system is better because, once the system is installed,

it has less running cost as shown in the graph.

Comparison of Running Cost of Different HVAC Systems

10,000,000.00
Running Cost (Rupees)

8,000,000.00

6,000,000.00

4,000,000.00

2,000,000.00

0.00

HVAC systems
Split system Ducted Split system Air cooled chiller system
VRF system Water-cooled chiller system

Figure 10 Comparison of Running Cost

66
Chapter 6

6. Conclusions and Suggestions

6.1. Introduction

Whenever we design something or even invent something, there is always a margin of

improvements in it. The conclusions we get from this project is that, the world is

changing very fast. While we were in market, we analysed a lot of people who were

shifting from conventional cooling systems to VRF systems. Some designs and terms

and improvements are given below.

6.2. Interior and Exterior Insulation (Cladding)

At the time of construction, the insulation process which can be made by plastic sheet or

special materials can reduce the load of the building. Insulation can reduce the amount

of heat entering from the walls to the building. In most of the cases, the roof is also made

insulated which can help reflecting back the heat and can also help in trapping the cooling

inside.

6.3. Compressors

There is a latest technology which is covering the market, which are inverters. They are

highly cost efficient as they can reduce the electricity consumption of the unit. For this

purpose, inverter driven compressors can reduce the running cost of the system.

6.4. Double Glass

67
In windows of the building, instead of using conventional glass windows. Double glass

windows are more preferred as they have air in two layers of glass. Air acts as an insulator

and can resist the conduction of heat from outside to the inside of the rooms of building.

6.5. Window to wall ratio

Window to wall ratio is specified and standardized by ASHRAE, which is a range from

0.34-0.37. if the ratio is maintained to this number, the overall efficiency of the system

is improved.

All the suggestions above mentioned are for general improvements in the building

weather they are VRF or any other system.

6.6. Energy Optimization

The overall energy of the system can be optimized by applying all above suggestions and

if we want to install a system which is itself an optimized system, then it is VRF system.

In future, we may have some other more efficient systems but for now, VRF is the best

choice.

68
Bibliography
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cooling conditions. Y.P. Zhou,J.Y. Wu,R.Z. Wang,S. Shiochi. S.l. : ELSEVIER, june

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IM,Jeff MUNK,Kwanwoo SONG.

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