Why task ambient conditioning is important:
The ideal ambient temperature and comfort level for an individual varies from one person to another. While some people complain that the environment is too warm another might feel that the temperature is on the chillier side. Task ambient conditioning aims at solving this problem by regulating the airflow within a given space.�
How task ambient conditioning works:
The principle behind task ambient conditioning is that a change in airflow will help change a person’s perception regarding the temperature of the environment by as much as 8°C. In a task ambient conditioning environment, it is the flow of cool air that does the cooling. It is due to this that the average temperature can be set higher and energy can be saved on cooling. People who wish to feel cool increase the airflow while those who want to remain warm reduce the airflow or divert it.
Air required for task ambient conditioning is introduced via a system of displacement ventilation. A displacement ventilation system is considered to be 1 ½ times to 2 times more efficient than a normal ventilation system.
Where task ambient conditioning is used:
Task ambient cooling was first used in the aircraft and automobile industry. The basic principle employed is to keep the total air supplied to an environment constant while a part of it is diverted for personal use. Task ambient cooling is often used in open office plan buildings. Cooling is provided directly to workstations and in some cases even radiant heating is provided in the same manner. These systems are used in conjunction with a raised floor which is used to pass the conditioned air through grills located in the workstation. If a person does not require the additional cooling, the air is used for controlling the ambient conditions of the office. Air supply is provided at a temperature of 18˚C to provide levels of optimal comfort.
Requirements for task ambient conditioning to be effective:
In order for task ambient cooling to be effective, the air supply outlets that are providing ventilation need to be located close to where residents sit. People also need to have easy access to control the amount of cold air that they are exposed to. It is also to ensure that the person sitting close to the vent will receive the maximum cooling effect from what is cold air traveling at a relatively low velocity.
The benefits of using task ambient conditioning:
Using this system, a room can be kept at a higher temperature, yet users will feel just as comfortable as compared to a traditional centralized cooling system. By raising the room temperature to 26˚C savings can go up to almost 14%. Task ambient cooling requires comparatively less amount of ductwork and thereby saves on energy costs associated with fans running in the ducts. Task ambient cooling conditions help in providing for a cleaner environment by having improved air movement and effective ventilation. Combined with occupancy sensors task ambient cooling becomes more effective as individual fan or blower units at can be switched off when there is no one in the room. Task ambient conditioning helps to reduce the overall life cycle costs of cooling and provides for an environment that is enjoyable to be in, thus enhancing comfort.
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