Project Abstract

Abstract
The design of a central air-conditioning system for a 1000 capacity lecture theatre involves a comprehensive analysis of various factors to ensure optimal comfort and efficiency. This research project focuses on the selection and sizing of components such as chillers, air handling units, ductwork, and diffusers to meet the specific requirements of the lecture theatre space. The goal is to create a system that provides consistent and uniform temperature distribution throughout the space while maintaining energy efficiency. The first step in the design process is to determine the cooling load of the lecture theatre by considering factors such as occupancy levels, equipment heat gain, lighting loads, and outdoor weather conditions. This information is crucial in selecting the appropriate capacity of the chillers and air handling units to ensure that the system can handle the peak cooling demand effectively. Additionally, the layout and configuration of the ductwork system are carefully planned to minimize pressure losses and maximize air distribution efficiency. The selection of chillers for the central air-conditioning system is based on factors such as cooling capacity, energy efficiency, and reliability. Various types of chillers, including air-cooled and water-cooled systems, are evaluated to determine the most suitable option for the lecture theatre application. The air handling units are sized to deliver the required airflow to the space while incorporating features such as variable air volume control to optimize energy usage. Ductwork design plays a critical role in the overall performance of the air-conditioning system, ensuring proper air distribution and ventilation within the lecture theatre. The layout of supply and return ducts is carefully planned to minimize air resistance and pressure drops, promoting efficient airflow throughout the space. Diffusers and grilles are strategically located to achieve uniform air distribution and thermal comfort for occupants. Energy efficiency is a key consideration in the design of the central air-conditioning system, with a focus on selecting components and control strategies that minimize energy consumption while maintaining comfort levels. The integration of advanced controls and monitoring systems allows for precise temperature regulation and adaptive operation based on occupancy patterns and environmental conditions. In conclusion, the design of a central air-conditioning system for a 1000 capacity lecture theatre involves a detailed analysis of cooling load requirements, component selection, ductwork design, and energy efficiency considerations. By carefully planning and implementing these aspects, a high-performance and sustainable air-conditioning system can be achieved to enhance the comfort and well-being of occupants in the lecture theatre.

Project Overview

Introduction

Central air conditioning is one of the most convenient and efficient ways of getting relief and comfort from the harsh climatic conditions prevalent in our environment. The ‘central’ in central air conditioning comes from the fact that the system conditions the entire building from one central location in a building. This system cools and dehumidifies the air and then blows the cool air into a well-designed duct system and out through the supply air registers located in the building (Andrew Althouse D, 2001).

However, this technology has not gained the required publicity in Nigerian schools today. Despite cost of installation, It is in fact a more preferable alternative when compared to the window type air conditioners. Therefore this project is directed towards designing a central air conditioning system for a one thousand capacity lecture theatre in the University of uyo,

1.2   Statement Of Problem                       This one thousand capacity lecture auditorium has a lot of classrooms and offices and will require much work to be done in providing and maintaining the desired amount of thermal comfort for the occupants under lecture and working conditions simultaneously. Hence we want to design a central cooling system for this auditorium so as to implement the following conditions as opposed to installing window units all over the auditorium.

 

Quick response to temperature changes, air filtration and adjusted humidity for comfortable healthy indoor air, humidification and dehumidification with central air conditioning, automatic circulation of quality air all year round, Quiet operation with built-in vents and registers, Lower fuel costs with heat pump options, improvement of the physical aesthetics of the building.

The objectives of this design include the following.

1. To design a central air conditioning system for a lecture theatre of 1000 capacity.
2. To determine the installation capacity required for the air conditioning system.

• To describe the layout of the distribution system.
  • Significance of the Study

The completion of the analysis of a central air conditioning system for a 1000 capacity lecture theatre gave the us great exposure to requirements, tools and techniques that are required for carrying out a central air conditioning system design. It also exposed us to the inherent difficulties and challenges involved in the design process using manual computation methods compared to the use of a computer software (though the cost of acquiring the software could be prohibitive in some cases).

The project involved theoretical analysis of a 1000 capacity lecture theatre; for this reason, selection of actual brands of equipment was not considered. Due to the cost of acquiring computer software for the cooling load estimation, a manual method of estimating the cooling load was used.