Air handling unit combined with a heat recovery system decreases the energy use of heating and cooling in any location. Increase efficiency and decrease the heating / cooling and ventilation energy cost.
Fresh Air Handling Unit
- Aluminum plate type
- Efficiency up to 65% for a single pass
- Efficiency 85% for two-stage arrangements
Rotary Type Heat Exchanger
- Condensation, enthalpy or sorption rotor
- Efficiencies are up to 90%
Counter Flow Heat Exchanger
- Aluminum plate type
- High efficiency up to 90% (sensible)
- Compact design
Horseshoe & Heat Pipe Type
Request Form
What is an Air Handling Unit with Heat Recovery?
An Air Handling Unit (AHU) with heat recovery is a specialized HVAC system designed to improve energy efficiency by reclaiming heat from exhaust air and using it to pre-condition incoming fresh air. This process reduces the energy required to heat or cool the incoming air, resulting in significant energy savings and improved overall efficiency. Here’s a detailed look at the components, functions, applications, and benefits of AHUs with heat recovery.
Components of an AHU with Heat Recovery
An AHU with heat recovery includes several key components:
- Heat Exchanger: The core component that transfers heat between the exhaust air and the incoming fresh air without mixing the two air streams.
- Fans: To move air through the unit, including both supply and exhaust fans.
- Filters: To clean the incoming and outgoing air, removing particulates and contaminants.
- Dampers: To control airflow and balance between intake and exhaust air.
- Sensors and Controls: To monitor and regulate temperature, humidity, and airflow, ensuring optimal performance.
Function of Heat Recovery in AHUs
The primary function of heat recovery in AHUs is to transfer thermal energy from the exhaust air to the incoming fresh air. This process involves:
- Exhaust Air Collection: Warm air from the indoor environment is collected and directed through the heat exchanger.
- Heat Exchange: The heat exchanger transfers thermal energy from the warm exhaust air to the cooler incoming fresh air.
- Conditioned Supply Air: The pre-heated or pre-cooled fresh air is then supplied to the indoor environment, reducing the load on the heating or cooling systems.
Types of Heat Recovery Systems
There are several types of heat recovery systems used in AHUs:
- Plate Heat Exchangers: Use thin plates to separate the air streams and transfer heat between them.
- Rotary Heat Exchangers: Use a rotating wheel to transfer heat and sometimes moisture between the air streams.
- Heat Pipes: Use a series of pipes filled with refrigerant to transfer heat between the air streams.
Applications of AHUs with Heat Recovery
AHUs with heat recovery are used in various applications to enhance energy efficiency and indoor air quality:
- Commercial Buildings: Offices, shopping malls, and hotels to reduce energy costs.
- Industrial Facilities: Factories and warehouses to manage large volumes of air.
- Residential Buildings: Homes and apartments for improved energy efficiency and comfort.
- Healthcare Facilities: Hospitals and clinics to maintain air quality and reduce operating costs.
- Educational Institutions: Schools and universities to provide a comfortable learning environment.
Benefits of AHUs with Heat Recovery
- Energy Savings: Significantly reduces the energy required for heating and cooling by reclaiming heat from exhaust air.
- Improved Indoor Air Quality: Provides a continuous supply of fresh, conditioned air.
- Environmental Benefits: Reduces greenhouse gas emissions by lowering energy consumption.
- Cost Efficiency: Decreases operational costs by reducing the load on heating and cooling systems.
- Enhanced Comfort: Maintains more consistent indoor temperatures and humidity levels.
Comparison with Standard AHUs
Standard AHUs provide heating, cooling, and ventilation without reclaiming energy from the exhaust air. In contrast, AHUs with heat recovery incorporate a heat exchanger to reclaim energy, making them more energy-efficient and environmentally friendly. This added efficiency makes heat recovery AHUs particularly beneficial in climates with extreme temperatures, where heating and cooling demands are high.
In conclusion, an Air Handling Unit with heat recovery is a sophisticated HVAC solution that enhances energy efficiency and indoor air quality by reclaiming thermal energy from exhaust air. Its applications span various industries, providing significant energy savings, environmental benefits, and improved indoor comfort.