Karl Attard
Table of Contents
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BTEC National Diploma in Building Services Assignment 1 of 2 unit 39
1. Identify, using references to real life situations the purpose for controls and control
systems and functions for building services in commercial buildings.
Good quality controls are necessary for the safe and efficient operation of a modern
building. The control system does more than just to keep the inside of a building
comfortable for the occupants. It is required to keep the HVAC plant operating efficiently, to
ensure that all plant operates safely in the event of any unforeseen circumstances, and it
must be capable of two-way communication with the personnel charged with its operation
(CIBSE , 2009).
It may be obvious that modern serviced buildings require a sophisticated control system
but also it should be became conscious that simpler buildings relying on a heating boiler and
natural ventilation can still benefit from a modern BMS. The importance of efficient controls
must increase as the importance on energy conservation and reduction of greenhouse gas
emissions is increasing continuously.
The introduction of digital data technology was
approximately forty years ago, in which information
is transmitted not as an analogue electrical value,
but as a sequence of numbers. Digital data
transmission is less liable to error than analogue
transmission and it is standard practice to build the
signal protocol in such a way that it is possible to identify whether an error has occurred
during transmission. This was the beginning of direct digital control (DDC). It required the
codification of rules by which values are converted to numerical messages for sending; such
messages have to contain not only the value of the variable under consideration, but
additional information such as the origin and destination of the message and error-checking
information (CIBSE , 2009).
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As computing power rapidly increased, the system of the central control unit became more
and more sophisticated, with the capability to handle increasing amounts of data and to
carry out additional functions such as the monitoring of energy consumption and the
printing or reports.
Building controls have a fundamental role to play in avoiding waste of energy. The amount
of energy required to run a building is determined by:
a) Thermal efficiency of the building envelope
thermal insulation
air tightness
provision for passive solar gains
b) Requirements of the indoor environment
temperature schedule
ventilation needs
humidity control
indoor air quality
lighting requirement
hot water requirements
lifts and mechanical services
c) processes within the building
IT equipment
industrial processes.
(CIBSE , 2009)
Technical control services are found more
in nowadays modern building such as
heating and ventilation, lighting, lift
control, security and access control,
closed circuit television (CCTV) systems, as
well as the information technology
network necessary for the user’s business operation. Some form of network is used to all of
these services to communicate within their own system. There is vast variety of benefits if
the various systems can communicate with each other, using the same communications
network or a limited number of compatible networks:
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The energy supply is now no longer pr-determined, but is linked to the heating system
temperature. This measure has transformed furnace operation into furnace control, with
the operator acting as the controller.
The software that is establish to be used in
these particular situations and much more
controlled serviced equipment used is the
BMS which has been developed for
supervisors to simplified the day-to-day
management. Even large BMSs and will show
savings in operating staff costs compared with
a simpler system which requires frequent
attention. With the expansion and
development of wide area networks, it is
possible to have remote supervision. This
enables skilled personnel to be located at a
single site and able to monitor the performance of several BMSs in scattered buildings,
leaving less skilled staff to carry out the daily process on site. There will also be a reduction
in maintenance costs as the BMS is able to keep run-time records of all equipment, allowing
maintenance to be planned successfully. Early warning of failure is available from
monitoring. Plant life is extended by the reduction in hours of use that is obtained by
scheduling, by reducing unnecessary device operation or unstable hunting and by reducing
fan and pump speeds. (CIBSE , 2009).
When deciding on the suitable type of control system to specify for a building, it is
important to remember that the benefits of a modern control system are benefited from
variously by the different groups of users concerned with the building. Some of the benefits
are achieved with a useful modern BMS. It is obvious that these benefits will only be
obtained if the system is properly specified, installed, commissioned, operated and
maintained. The main benefits are: -
a) Building owner
Higher rental value
Flexibility of building
Individual billing
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b) Tenant
Energy consumption
Effective monitoring of consumption
Good control of the comfort conditions
Increase in the staff productivity
Plant life and reliability
c) Occupant
Better comfort and lighting
Possible individual room control
Effective response to HVAC complains
d) Facilities Manager
Controlled from a central control
Remote monitoring
Rapid alarm and fault diagnoses
Computerised maintenance schedule
Good plant schematics and documentation
e) Contractor
Simplified installations
Supervisors aids setting up and commissioning
It is important to take note that without a properly functioning BMS the activities carried
out in the building will be disadvantaged. Beside of that a good building design and efficient
HVAC plant, the BMS plays a fundamental role in the prevention of energy waste and
reducing the environmental impact of the building.
Modern BMSs are based on intelligent controllers which may be programmed to carry out a
wide range of control functions. Typically, a number of controllers are employed, each
controlling an item of plant or an HVAC subsystem. The controllers communicate with each
other and with a central supervisor over a local area network (LAN). The system manager is
able to monitor and control the entire BMS from one point. (CIBSE , 2009)
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The figure below shows also an open-loop control system. The actuator is a motor driving a
robot arm. In this case, the process is the arm moving, and the controlled variable is the
angular position of the arm. Earlier tests have shown that the motor rotates the arm at 5
degrees/second (deg/s) at the rated voltage. Assume that the controller is directed to move
the arm from 0° to 30°. Knowing the characteristics of the process, the controller sends a 6-
second power pulse to the motor. If the motor is acting properly, it will rotate exactly 30° in
the 6 seconds and stop. On particularly cold days, however, the lubricant is more viscous
(thicker), causing more internal friction and the motor rotates only 25° in the 6 seconds; the
result is a 5° error. The controller has no way of knowing of the error and does nothing to
correct it. (Kilian, 2006)
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signal is subtracted from the set point at the comparator (just ahead of the controller). By
subtracting the actual position (as reported by the sensor) from the desired position (as
defined by the set point), we get the system error. The error signal represents the difference
between “where you are” and “where you want to be.” The controller is always working to
minimize this error signal. A zero error means that the output is exactly what the set point
says it should be. (Kilian, 2006).
For a room temperature control system, the first condition is to become aware of or sense
changes in room temperature. The second condition is to control or vary the energy output
from the gas fire, if the sensed room temperature is different from the required room
temperature. Generally, a system that is planned and designed to control the output of a
plant must contain at least one sensor and controller as shown below.
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The figure above represents a schematic block- diagram for a closed-loop, or feedback
control system. The controller and plant lie along the forward path, and the sensor in the
feedback path. The measured value of the plant output is compared at the summing point
with the desired value. The difference or error is fed to the controller which generates a
control signal to drive the plant until its output equals the desired value. Such an
arrangement is sometimes called an error-actuated system. (Burns, 2001)
On/off Control
On/off controllers are simple, inexpensive controllers that are usually used in simple
applications such as thermostats in heating systems and domestic refrigerators. They are
also used in industrial processes such as simple level control systems or simple quantity
controllers for mixers.
On/off controllers can be modified to include a deadband for the error signal to decrease
the sensitivity to measurement noise. The on/off control is also sometimes referred to as
two-position or bang-bang control. An on/off controller causes an oscillation about a
constant setpoint, since the control variable jumps between the two possible values. (Hong
Kong IGDS, 2000)
For that reason it produces too much wear on the final control element. If a valve is used as
an actuator this is a major disadvantage, while it is not a serious drawback if the element is
a solenoid switch. A more advanced type of on/off control is used for motor control, where
pulse width or other types of modulation are applied to transform the on/off control signal
to the motor input voltage. (Hong Kong IGDS, 2000)
The most common switch type of an on/off system control is the toggle
switch, which is available in various contact
configurations. Each switch consists of one or more
poles, where each pole is actually a separate switch
(Kilian, 2006). The contact arrangement for the single-
pole/single-throw switch (SPST), the simplest switch, is illustrated in
the figure.
In this type of switch, the controlled device gives either maximum or minimum output,
typically on and off. The figure below illustrates two-position control for a simple heating
system. It is required to control temperature at the set point and that is why it will become
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Proportional Control
It is a more sophisticated control strategy that requires “smart” controllers that use op-
amps or a microprocessor. The first and most basic of these strategies are called
proportional control. Proportional control requires a constantly changeable output of the
controlled device. The control system produces an output which is proportional to the error
signal, i.e. the difference between the value of the controlled variable and the set point. For
the controller to produce an output to match the load on the system, it is necessary that
there be an offset between the controlled variable and the set point (CIBSE , 2009). In
constant conditions, a proportional controller produces a balance or load error, which
increases with the load on the system.
With proportional control, the actuator applies a corrective force that is proportional to the
amount of error (Kilian, 2006).
If you had the opportunity to experiment with the proportional control system shown in
above, you would notice that the arm has a springy feel. For example, if you were to push
down on the arm, you would feel a restoring force, as if you were pressing on a spring. The
more you displaced it, the more it would resist. What you are actually feeling is the control
system’s correcting force, where the resistance to movement is proportional to the error
(displacement). (Kilian, 2006)
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Integral Control
The integral control in a control system can reduce the steady-state error to zero. Integral
control reaction can easily be noticed on industrial robots. When a weight is placed on the
arm, it will evidently sag and then restore itself to the original position.
Integral control is not often found on its own, but is normally combined with proportional
control in a PI controller. In its pure form it produces a rate of change of the output of the
controller proportional to the deviation from the set point or, in other words, the output is a
function of the integral over time of the deviation from the set point (CIBSE , 2009). When
the controlled variable is at the set point, the rate of change of output is zero and therefore
the system is settled to a constant condition, with steady output and zero offset. The control
mode is similar to floating control, but with a zero width neutral zone and variable rate of
change of output: compare with proportional-speed floating control (CIBSE , 2009).
When integral control is used by itself, it must be used in systems with short time stables
and fast reaction rates while it is not suitable for a system with slow reactions or long time
intervals, where it will over-correct. Such typical controlled device is a valve driven by a
variable-speed actuator, which gives the necessary variable rate of change of control
reaction.
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Derivative Control
Derivative control “applies the brakes,” slowing the controlled variable just before it reaches
its destination (Kilian, 2006).
For process control systems, where the set point is usually a fixed value, derivative control
facilitates the system respond more quickly to load changes. For example, consider a
controller that maintains a constant liquid level in a tank. If there is a rapid drop in liquid
level (positive-slope error curve), derivative control responds by opening the inlet valve wider
than proportional control alone would. Then, when the level is almost restored to the set
point and the error is decreasing (negative-slope error curve), derivative control helps shut
off the valve. (Kilian, 2006)
In this case we can conclude that the derivative control improves system performance in
two ways. First, it supplies an extra boost of force at the beginning of a change to support
faster action; second, it provides for braking when the object is closing in on the new set
point. This braking action not only helps decrease overshoot but also tends to decrease
steady-state error.
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BTEC National Diploma in Building Services Assignment 1 of 2 unit 39
1. a) By means of diagrams identify the flowing control devices associated with P1 and
state at least on application of each.
i. Sensor
ii. Controller
iii. Actuator
b) Explain what is meant by:
iv. Controlled Devices
v. Controlled Variable
vi. Set Point
vii. Hunting
viii. Dead Band
Sensors
The devices that inform the control system about what is actually occurring are called
sensors (also known as transducers). For a control system, the designer must determine
exactly what limitations need to be taken in consideration—for example, position,
temperature, and pressure—and then specify the sensors and data interface circuitry to do
the job. Many times a choice is possible. For example, we might measure fluid flow in a pipe
with a flow meter, or we could measure the flow indirectly by seeing how long it takes for
the fluid to fill a known-sized container. The choice would be dictated by system
requirements, cost, and reliability. (Kilian, 2006)
Rain intensity sensors: these are fitted so that windows and vents may be shut
automatically to prevent rain ingress. For a large building it may be advisable to
mount sensors at opposite ends to detect approaching rain. (CIBSE , 2009)
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Controller
The controller, a part of the control system, directs the actuator to move some parameter,
which is called the controlled variable. A feedback controller has two inputs, the set point
(SP) and the process variable (PV), and one output. The set point specifies the desired
position of the controlled variable.
Scene set control is a controlled use in interior design. In
commercial applications such as restaurants, hotels etc.
different lighting schemes may be required at different
times of day. Other examples would include multifunction
rooms requiring a range of lighting scenes to suit different
activities. A scene-set controller can be used to store the
individual luminaire settings and to switch or cross-fade between settings as desired.
Such a controller is unlikely to be combined with other automatic control systems and
the different scenes are manually selected as required (CIBSE , 2009).
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Actuators
These are first component in the control system which generates physical movement,
typically a motor. The actuator gets its commands directly from the controller. Another
name for the actuator is the final control element.
Thermic actuators contain a solid expansion medium which is
heated by an electrical resistance heater. When power is
applied to the actuator, the heating effect causes the medium
to expand, producing a linear motion of the spindle. On cooling,
the spindle retracts by pressure of a built-in spring. Thermic
actuators are robust and silent. Full stroke is about 3 mm and
stroke time is a few minutes. Modulating control can be achieved with pulse width
modulation; some models use a standard 0–10 V signal. Models are available
designed to operate radiator valves. (CIBSE , 2009)
Controlled devices
These devices act to change the output of the load which acts on the controlled system. For
example controlled devices for natural ventilation consist primarily of modulating inlet and
outlet ventilation openings. Natural fluctuations in wind speed and direction give rise to
variations in ventilation rate and make precise control difficult. When the ventilation devices
have a large area relative to the space being ventilated, some form of modulating control
will be required. For smaller openings it may be possible to use open/shut control,
particularly if a number of openings may be operated in sequence. (CIBSE , 2009)
Attention must be given to the performance of the openings in rain and wind. If sufficient
protection is not provided by some form of baffle or cowl, it will be required to control the
opening position in bad weather, to avoid damage or rain entrance. Where natural
ventilation is used during uninhabited hours for night cooling, consideration must be given
to any conciliation of building security accessible by the open air inlets. It is common to
provide opening windows under occupant control in count to the vents controlled by the
BMS.
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Controlled Variable
Controlled variable is an ultimate output of the process; the actual parameter of the process
that is being controlled.
An example of controlled variable is used in air heating is typically by an LTHW (Low
Temperature Hot Water) coil. The figure below shows the coil controlled by a three-way
mixing valve in diverting application. During the heating season, in normal application, the
valve modulates under PI control. The controlled variable depends on the air conditioning
type, and is typically supply air temperature for a VAV system and zone air temperature for a
constant volume system (CIBSE , 2009). Cascade control is common, where the difference
from the zone set point is used to reset the supply air temperature set point, which is
controlled by the heating coil. If there is no preheat coil fitted to the intake air duct, the first
heating coil in the AHU fulfils this function and freeze protection is installed.
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Set Point
The set point is defined as the place where you want the controlled variable to be. In a
dynamic system, such as a robot arm, the required position is a moving target, in which case
we are disturbed with path control. Additional, the required path between two points may
not be a straight line. For example, a welding robot needs to follow the path of the seam.
Hunting
It is a control state where the system does not settle to a steady value but oscillates about
the set point.
Hunting behaviour may only be obvious on directly observing movement of the actuators or
by detailed logging of system behaviour by the BMS. A control system which hunts is
unsatisfactory for several reasons:
it produces excessive wear on valves and actuators
temperature cycling may produce undesirable effects on plant and equipment
it may produce instabilities in other parts of the system.
(CIBSE , 2009)
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Dead Band
1. The range of values of the controlled variable within which a floating controller
produces no change in control action, also called neutral zone.
2. The range of values of the controlled variable in which HVAC plant is off, e.g. the
interval between heating and cooling operation.
3. The range between upper and lower switching values for a two-position
controller. Better termed the differential.
(CIBSE , 2009)
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BTEC National Diploma in Building Services Assignment 1 of 2 unit 39
1. Describe in your own words the operating principles, functions and limitations of the
following direct acting controls. Illustrate your answer with appropriate diagrams and
images.
ix. Thermostatic expansion valve
x. Thermostatic shower mixing valve
xi. Ball float valve
xii. Pressure relief valve
xiii. Flame failure valve
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2. Evaporating pressure which acts on the underside of the diaphragm, in the valve
closing direction.
3. Spring pressure which also acts on the underside of the diaphragm, in the valve
closing direction.
When the expansion valve regulates, balance is created between bulb pressure on one side
of the diaphragm and evaporating pressure plus spring force on the other side. (Danfoss
Corporation, 2005)
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BTEC National Diploma in Building Services Assignment 1 of 2 unit 39
1. With reference to Unit 35 task C (covering grading criteria M.35.3) list and justify the
necessary control components for correct, safe and efficient operation of the system.
List all the control elements including sensors, actuators, controlled devices and
controllers and describe for each how your suggestions contributes towards achieving
the design intent.
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1. Suggest hoe the sensors, actuators and the control devices used in the above question,
can be modified to achieve a better efficient and versatile system. Compare both
systems and justify your choices. Include in your recommendations the manufacturer’s
literature and data of the devices used.
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BTEC National Diploma in Building Services Assignment 1 of 2 unit 39
1. Evaluate the impact HVAC systems do to the environment. Suggest how, by the use
specific control systems, the energy can be conserved for the benefit of both
environmental and financial issues. Your suggestions can be made on the same basis of
M1 and M2.
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