Heating Ventilation and Air-Conditioning

Complex Engineering Problem

Department of Mechanical Engineering

University of Engineering and Technology, Lahore
New Campus

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Submitted to:

Engr. Syed Muhammad Sannan

Submitted by:
Group#7

Name of Team Team Dynamics

Name Reg.no
1 Ali Naser 2021-ME-311
2 Muhammad Imtinan Ali 2021-ME-313
3 Syed Ahtsham Akbar 2021-ME-314
4 Muhammad Faizan Nadeem 2021-ME-353
5 Saqlain Murtaza 2021-ME-358
6 Saman Masood 2021-ME-360
7 Fatima Tanveer 2021-ME-361
8 Muhammad Salman 2021-ME-364
9 Muhammad Ali 2021-ME-372
10 Usman Ramzan 2021-ME-380

Table of Content
Problem Statement..................................................................................................4
eQUEST Software...................................................................................................5
Step 1: Download eQUEST Software......................................................................................5
Step 2: Install eQUEST Software.............................................................................................5
Step 3: Open eQUEST and Initial Settings.............................................................................6
Step 4: Basic User Interface Overview....................................................................................6

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 Step 5: Quick First Project Setup.............................................................................................6
AutoCAD Software..................................................................................................7
2-D model of Building................................................................................................................7
Weather file..............................................................................................................8
Creating a file to analyze........................................................................................8
Custom Building Footprints.....................................................................................................9
Zoning patterns..........................................................................................................................9
Building Envelope Construction............................................................................................10
Celling and Wall Type & Windows.......................................................................................10
Roof Skylights..........................................................................................................................12
Activity Area Allocation..........................................................................................................13
Occupied load by activity Area..............................................................................................13
Schedule....................................................................................................................................14
HVAC System Definition........................................................................................................14
Results.......................................................................................................................................15

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Problem Statement
The project involves the modeling, simulation, and analysis of the ground floor building of the
Department of Mechanical, Mechatronics, and Manufacturing Engineering at the New Campus.
The objective is to first develop a detailed architectural plan of the department using AutoCAD
software. After creating the building layout, the project will utilize eQUEST software to perform
a comprehensive energy simulation and performance assessment, with a particular focus on
Heating, Ventilation, and Air Conditioning (HVAC) systems.

The ground floor model will include major areas such as laboratories, classrooms, offices,
conference rooms, and corridors. Accurate representation of the building's physical features like
walls, doors, and windows is necessary to enable precise energy modeling. Once the AutoCAD
model is prepared, it will be imported into eQUEST software. Within eQUEST, the building will
be divided into thermal zones, construction materials will be assigned to different surfaces, and
internal loads like lighting, occupancy, and equipment will be defined. A baseline energy
simulation will be run using a standard HVAC setup to establish the building’s initial energy
performance.

Subsequently, various Energy Efficiency Measures (EEMs) will be applied in eQUEST to

improve the HVAC system’s performance. These measures include implementing Variable Air
Volume (VAV) systems instead of Constant Air Volume (CAV) systems, introducing Demand-
Controlled Ventilation (DCV) based on occupancy levels, optimizing HVAC operational
schedules, and upgrading building insulation and glazing systems. Each EEM will be simulated
separately in eQUEST software to observe its impact on overall energy consumption.

Finally, the energy performance results will be analyzed and compared across different
scenarios. Key performance indicators such as Annual Energy Use Intensity (EUI), HVAC
energy savings, and estimated cost savings will be considered. The project aims to recommend
the most effective HVAC energy-saving strategies, while promoting the design of energy-
efficient academic facilities. It also provides hands-on experience in AutoCAD modeling, energy
simulation using eQUEST software, and HVAC system optimization.

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eQUEST Software
eQUEST (the Quick Energy Simulation Tool) is a powerful, user-friendly building energy
simulation software developed by James J. Hirsch & Associates in collaboration with the U.S.
Department of Energy (DOE). It is built on the widely used DOE-2 simulation engine and is
designed to analyze building energy use and performance with a high level of accuracy.
eQUEST allows users to model building geometry, HVAC systems, lighting, and occupancy
schedules in both simple and detailed modes.

The software offers an intuitive interface featuring a Schematic Design Wizard for quick
modeling and a Detailed Design Mode for advanced users who require full control over system
specifications. eQUEST is widely used in energy auditing, building performance analysis,
HVAC design evaluation, and in the assessment of Energy Efficiency Measures (EEMs). By
simulating different building designs and system configurations, eQUEST helps architects,
engineers, and energy consultants make informed decisions to improve energy efficiency and
reduce operational costs. Due to its combination of detailed simulation capability and ease of
use, eQUEST remains a leading tool for building energy performance studies, especially in
academic, research, and professional engineering fields.

Step 1: Download eQUEST Software

 Open your web browser and go to the official website: http://www.doe2.com/equest/

 On the homepage, find the latest version of eQUEST (for example, "eQUEST 3-65" is
common).
 Click on the download link (it is usually named something like "eQUEST v3.65 (full
installation)" or similar).
 You may be asked to register (free) or provide basic information like your email address
before downloading.
 After registration, the download should automatically begin.
You will receive a file, usually with a name like:
eQUEST_v3-65_Setup.exe.

Step 2: Install eQUEST Software

1) Locate the downloaded file (eQUEST_v3-65_Setup.exe) in your Downloads folder.

2) Double-click on the file to start the installation.
3) A setup wizard will appear. Click Next to proceed.
4) Accept the License Agreement when prompted.
5) Choose the installation directory (default is usually fine, like C:\Program Files (x86)\
eQUEST 3-65).
6) Select the typical installation option (recommended for most users).
7) Click Install and wait for the installation to complete.
8) After installation, click Finish.
Now, you should see an eQUEST icon on your desktop.

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Step 3: Open eQUEST and Initial Settings

 Double-click on the eQUEST desktop icon.

 When eQUEST opens, you’ll see the Welcome Screen.
 Choose Create a New Project to start a new building simulation.
 You can select two major modes:

 Schematic Design Wizard (SD Wizard): Easy and fast for beginners — used for
general building layouts.
 Detailed Design Wizard: Advanced — for full control over every system detail.

 Click Schematic Design Wizard if you are just starting out.

Step 4: Basic User Interface Overview

The main parts of the eQUEST interface are:

 Project Tree (Left Panel):

Shows your building, zones, HVAC systems, schedules, and utilities.
 Input Panel (Center/Right):
Here you input data like floor areas, wall types, window types, HVAC system types,
schedules, etc.
 Building Footprint and 3D View (Top-Right Panel):
Shows the shape of your building (after entering geometry).
 Toolbar (Top):
Contains buttons like Save, Open Project, Run Simulation, View Reports.
 Simulation Output Reports:
After simulation, eQUEST automatically generates reports like Energy Consumption
Summary, HVAC Equipment Loads, Utility Costs, etc.

Step 5: Quick First Project Setup

When creating your project:

 Enter basic information (Project Name, Location/Weather file).

 Define number of floors (e.g., "Ground Floor Only" = 1 floor).
 Enter approximate total floor area.
 Define zone uses (e.g., classrooms, offices, labs).
 Select a standard HVAC system for baseline (e.g., packaged single-zone CAV).
 Set basic schedules (default is okay for first runs).

 Finally, run the simulation by clicking Simulate Building.

eQUEST will process and generate output reports you can use for analysis.

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AutoCAD Software
AutoCAD is a computer-aided design (CAD) software developed by Autodesk that enables users
to create precise 2D and 3D drawings, models, and designs. It is widely used across various
industries such as architecture, engineering, construction, manufacturing, and product design.
AutoCAD provides a range of tools for drafting, annotating, and designing geometric shapes,
mechanical parts, floor plans, and complex structures.

The software offers powerful features like layer management, dimensioning, object snapping,
and extensive libraries of standard components. It supports a variety of file formats, making it
easy to integrate with other design and modeling tools. With its intuitive interface and
customizable workflows, AutoCAD allows professionals to produce accurate and detailed
technical drawings efficiently. Today, AutoCAD remains one of the most essential and widely
recognized tools for digital drafting and engineering design worldwide.

2-D model of Building

Fig. 1 2-D model of Mechanical Engineering Department

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Weather file
Creating a file to analyze
In the first step of creating a project using the eQUEST Schematic Design Wizard, a new project
is initiated with the name "Project 30", representing the specific building simulation case. The
Building Type is selected as School, College/University, meaning the simulation will apply
energy use patterns and internal load assumptions typical of educational facilities. The Location
Set is marked as User Selected, indicating that the user will manually choose the project’s
geographic location, although a specific city has not been assigned yet. A Weather File labeled
"weather file.BIN" is required but not yet selected, which is crucial because eQUEST
simulations depend on accurate local weather data for realistic energy modeling. Under the
"Area, HVAC Service & Other Data" section, the Building Area is defined as 250,000 square
feet, representing a large single-story facility since the Number of Floors above grade is set to 1
and 0 floors below grade.

Regarding mechanical systems, Cooling Equipment is selected as DX Coils, indicating the use
of Direct Expansion coils typical for cooling loads, while Heating Equipment is set to No
Heating, meaning the building will not have active heating systems modeled unless specified in
later steps. The Analysis Year is set to 2025, ensuring that the simulation reflects modern
standards for that year. The Daylighting Controls option is selected as No, meaning that
daylight-responsive lighting control strategies are not initially considered in the base model.
Finally, the Usage Details are set to Simplified Schedules, allowing the simulation to use basic,
predefined operating schedules instead of detailed, custom ones to streamline the early modeling
process.

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 Fig. 2 eQUEST Schematic Design Wizard (Putting General Information)

Custom Building Footprints

Custom building footprints refer to the unique outlines or boundaries of a building's structure,
typically used in architectural designs or urban planning. These footprints represent the specific
shape and size of the building as it fits within a designated plot or space.

Fig. 3 Custom Building Footprints in eQUEST

Zoning patterns
In eQUEST, zoning patterns refer to the way a building or space is divided into different zones
based on factors like usage, heating, cooling, and ventilation requirements. These patterns help
simulate and analyze energy performance by grouping spaces with similar characteristics for
more accurate modeling and energy efficiency assessments.

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 Fig. 4 Zonning Patterns in eQUEST

Building Envelope Construction

For the roof surfaces, the construction is set as a metal frame spaced 24 inches on-center with
a dark brown shingle roofing finish. The thermal properties indicate no exterior board
insulation, no batt insulation or radiant barrier, and 12-inch concrete for ground floor
exposure with no perimeter insulation. The above-grade walls are configured as metal frame
construction (>24 inches o.c.) with red brick masonry veneer and 3/4-inch fiberboard
sheathing (R-2), but again no batt or board insulation is included. The interior finish is left
unspecified (no surface finish). For infiltration (air leakage), the settings define 0.038 CFM/ft²
for perimeter walls and a much tighter 0.001 CFM/ft² for the core, suggesting that the exterior
walls are less airtight than interior partitions.

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 Fig. 5 eQUEST Schematic Design Wizard (Building Envelope Construction)

Celling and Wall Type & Windows

Focusing on Building Interior Constructions. The selections indicate that the ceilings are
configured with lay-in acoustic tile as the interior finish, but no batt insulation is specified,
meaning there is no thermal insulation in the ceiling cavities. Similarly, for vertical walls,
the frame construction type is selected, but again no wall insulation is applied. y
Selections:

1. Window Area Method:

The window area is specified as a percentage of net wall area (floor to ceiling), meaning
window sizes are calculated based on wall dimensions rather than absolute values.

2. Window Types:

 Two identical window types are defined:

 Glass: Single Pilkington SuperGrey 3mm (U-factor = 1.04, SHGC = 0.45)

 Frame: Aluminum without thermal break, fixed (1.3-inch width)

3. Window Dimensions & Distribution:

 Width: 5.0 ft (✔ indicates fixed width)

 Height: 5.22 ft

 Sill Height: 1.0 ft (from the floor)

 Percentage Distribution by Facade:

 South: 40.7%

 North: 40.7%

 East: 40.7%

 West: 0.0% (no windows)

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 The estimated building-wide window-to-wall ratio (WWR) is 40.7% (net, floor-to-
ceiling) and 31.3% (gross, floor-to-floor).

Fig. 6 eQUEST Schematic Design Wizard (Building Interior Construction)

Fig. 7 eQUEST Schematic Design Wizard (Exterior Windows)

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Roof Skylights

Fig. 8 eQUEST Schematic Design Wizard (Roof Skylights)

Activity Area Allocation

Fig. 9 eQUEST Schematic Design Wizard (Activity Area Allocation)

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Occupied load by activity Area

Fig. 10 eQUEST Schematic Design Wizard (Occupied Load by Activity Area)

Schedule

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 Fig. 11 eQUEST Schematic Design Wizard (Main Schedule Information)

HVAC System Definition

By selecting cooling source DX Coils with no heating source in system 1 and system type is
Split System Single Zone DX with Ducted return air path.

Fig. 12(a) eQUEST Schematic Design Wizard (HVAC System Definition)

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 Fig. 12(b) eQUEST Schematic Design Wizard (Packaged HVAC Equipment)

Results

Fig. 13(a) Results Drive from eQUEST Software

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Fig. 13(b) Results Drive from eQUEST Software

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Improvements:

1.Window Upgrade: Single Plane to Triple Low-E Glass

The original design incorporated single-pane windows, which offer minimal insulation and result
in significant heat gains or losses. To improve thermal performance, Triple Low-Emissivity
(Low-E) glazing was implemented. This type of glazing includes three layers of glass with inert
gas fills and reflective coatings that reduce solar heat gain while maintaining visible light
transmission. This enhancement significantly lowers HVAC loads by reducing the building's
dependency on artificial heating and cooling.
2. Roof Insulation Improvement: R-7 to R-19
Initially, the roof insulation level was set to R-7, which provides limited resistance to heat flow.
This was upgraded to R-19, which greatly enhances the building envelope’s thermal resistance.
The higher R-value helps retain indoor temperature for longer periods, reducing heating and
cooling demands and improving overall HVAC system efficiency.
3. Wall Insulation Enhancement: R-7 to R-19
Similar to the roof, the external walls were also improved from R-7 to R-19 insulation. This
step minimizes thermal bridging through the building envelope and contributes to a more stable
internal environment. Improved wall insulation reduces energy consumption for space
conditioning and aligns the building with modern energy efficiency standards.
4. Reduction of Lighting Power Density (LPD)
The Lighting Power Density (LPD) was reduced from 1.5 W/ft² to 1.1 W/ft². This was
achieved by replacing conventional lighting fixtures with energy-efficient LEDs and optimizing
lighting layout and control systems. Lowering LPD directly reduces internal heat gains, which in
turn decreases cooling loads and improves HVAC performance.
5. Reduction of Internal Loads in Unoccupied Areas
In spaces that are not continuously occupied, such as storage areas or rarely used offices, internal
loads (including lighting, plug loads, and equipment) were minimized. This approach reduces
unnecessary energy consumption and allows the HVAC system to operate more efficiently by
targeting only actively used zones, particularly when paired with occupancy sensors.
6. HVAC System Upgrade
The original HVAC configuration was replaced with a more energy-efficient system,
potentially shifting from a Constant Air Volume (CAV) setup to a Variable Air Volume (VAV)
system. VAV systems adjust airflow based on real-time thermal load demands, leading to
significant energy savings and better thermal comfort. Additional enhancements may include
higher COP chillers or energy recovery ventilators.

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7. Optimized HVAC Operational Schedule
The operational hours of the HVAC system were optimized to match occupancy patterns. By
reducing system run-time during unoccupied hours, such as nights or weekends, energy
waste is minimized. This strategy ensures that the HVAC system operates only when needed,
enhancing overall system efficiency and reducing utility costs.

Modifications:
Step 1: Insulation Upgrade to R-19
In the initial baseline model, the building envelope featured minimal insulation levels, which
contributed to substantial heat transfer through the roof and walls. To improve the thermal
performance of the structure, R-19 insulation was added to both the roof and external walls of
the building.
The R-value is a measure of thermal resistance — the higher the R-value, the better the material
resists heat flow. Upgrading to R-19 insulation significantly reduces thermal losses in winter
and minimizes heat gains in summer, thereby lowering the load on HVAC systems.
This measure enhances energy efficiency by:
 Reducing the amount of heating and cooling required to maintain indoor comfort.
 Improving the building’s ability to retain conditioned air.
 Contributing to a more stable and consistent indoor environment.
The insulation was applied as per ASHRAE and local building code standards, ensuring both
energy savings and occupant comfort. This step forms the foundation for further HVAC
optimization strategies in the overall energy efficiency improvement plan.

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 Figure. 14 eQUEST Schematic Design Insulation Upgrade to R-19

Step 2: Door Material Upgrade to Single Low-E Glass

In the baseline model, standard door materials were used that had poor thermal performance,
allowing significant heat exchange between indoor and outdoor environments. To address this
issue, the door materials were upgraded to Single Low-Emissivity (Low-E) Glass.

Low-E glass is coated with a microscopically thin, transparent layer that reflects infrared (heat)
energy while allowing visible light to pass through. This means:

 In hot weather, Low-E glass reflects solar heat away from the building, reducing cooling
load.
 In cold weather, it reflects indoor heat back into the building, reducing heating demand.

By using Single Low-E glass for doors:

 Thermal transmission is minimized, improving the building’s insulation envelope.

 Energy consumption of HVAC systems is reduced due to lower heat gains and losses.
 Comfort levels within entry points and adjacent areas are enhanced.

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This upgrade plays a vital role in improving the overall energy performance of the building while
maintaining aesthetics and daylight entry.

Figure. 15 eQUEST Schematic Design Door Material Upgrade to Single Low-E Glass

Step 3: Window Material Change to Double Clear/Tinted Glazing

In the initial baseline model, the building was equipped with single-pane windows that allowed
significant heat transfer through the glazing, contributing to increased HVAC loads. To enhance
the thermal performance of the building envelope, the windows were upgraded to double-glazed
units using clear or tinted glass.

Double glazing consists of two layers of glass separated by an air or gas-filled space, which acts
as an insulator to reduce heat transfer. The tinted variant further reduces solar heat gain by
limiting the amount of solar radiation entering the building, making it particularly effective in
cooling-dominated climates.

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This measure improves energy efficiency by:

 Reducing solar heat gain during summer, thereby decreasing cooling demands.
 Minimizing heat loss during winter, supporting better indoor heat retention.
 Enhancing occupant comfort by maintaining more consistent indoor temperatures.
 Improving daylight control, especially with tinted glazing, without relying heavily on
artificial cooling.

Figure. 16 eQUEST Schematic Design Window Material Change to Double Clear/Tinted

Glazing

Step: 3 Decrease Design Occupancy

In the baseline energy model, the design occupancy levels were initially set at higher values,
which led to increased internal heat gains due to body heat, lighting use, and equipment
operation. To reflect more realistic usage patterns and optimize energy performance, the design
occupancy was reduced based on actual expected usage of the building spaces.

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Lowering the design occupancy reduces internal loads, which directly impacts the performance
of HVAC systems. With fewer occupants, there is less heat generated, lower ventilation
demand, and reduced cooling and heating requirements.

This measure improves energy efficiency by:

 Reducing internal heat gains, easing the cooling load on HVAC systems.
 Decreasing ventilation air volume requirements, especially when using Demand-
Controlled Ventilation (DCV).
 Lowering energy use associated with lighting and plug loads due to fewer active
occupants.
 Improving HVAC system control, allowing it to operate closer to actual building
conditions.

Figure. 17 eQUEST Schematic Design Decrease Design Occupancy

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Step 5: Change lightning load to 1W/Sqft and plug load to W/Sqft

The lighting load was reduced to 1 watt per square foot, reflecting the use of energy-efficient
lighting (e.g., LED lights), which lowers the cooling demand and HVAC energy consumption.
Similarly, the plug load was adjusted to account for more efficient equipment and realistic usage
patterns.

This change improves energy efficiency by:

 Reducing internal energy consumption from lighting and devices.

 Lowering cooling loads due to decreased heat gains from lighting and plug loads.
 Improving overall energy performance, leading to cost savings.

These adjustments align with modern, energy-efficient building standards.

Figure. 18 eQUEST Schematic Design Change lightning load to 1W/Sqft and plug load to
W/Sqft

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Step 6: Change HVAC system type to Package VAV

The HVAC system was upgraded from a traditional system to a Package Variable Air Volume
(VAV) system. VAV systems adjust the air volume based on demand, providing more efficient
control over the building's temperature and airflow.

This change improves energy efficiency by:

 Reducing energy consumption by delivering only the required air volume.

 Improving occupant comfort by providing better temperature control.
 Lowering operational costs due to more efficient system operation.

Switching to a Package VAV system helps in optimizing HVAC performance and reducing
overall energy usage.

Figure. 19 eQUEST Schematic Design Change HVAC system type to Package VAV

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Results:

Figure 19 Results Drive from eQUEST Software

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Figure: 19(B) Results Drive from eQUEST Software

Figure 19 (c) Results Drive from eQUEST Software

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