MEP Engineering design for University of Michigan

Our team faced many design challenges, including the need to keep temperatures from fluctuating due to the extreme exertion of body heat from athletic physical activity. More specifically, the facility needed to maintain the proper humidity levels to keep the athletes comfortable and cool while training or performing. In the Rowperfect ® Room, the University wanted to maintain cooler temperatures year-round. By utilizing de-stratification fans, PBA was able to design a system that averted the need for added mechanical cooling equipment. By doing so, the specific environmental condition needs of the client were met.

Other complex spaces produced additional challenges including fluctuating loads, large amounts of daylight, and the desire to incorporate energy savings measures. The mechanical systems were designed to accommodate all load conditions while maintaining the space temperature/humidity requirements during low load conditions. Based on the University’s desire to achieve energy savings, a heat recovery chiller was designed into the project to provide cooling during the winter months as well as supplement the hot water heating system.

The new home for regional and national competitions boasts an estimated 30% in energy savings and recently achieved LEED Silver Certification.