Chilled Beam Guide is Available from ASHRAE

Guidance on designing chilled-beam systems is contained in a new book from ASHRAE and the Federation of European Heating, Ventilation and Air-Conditioning Associations (REHVA). The “Active and Passive Beam Application Design Guide” is the result of collaboration by worldwide experts to give system designers a current, authoritative guide on successfully applying active and passive beam technology.

Active and passive beam systems are an energy-efficient solution for spaces that require individual zone control and where the internal moisture loads are moderate, according to ASHRAE.

Although they are often referred to as “chilled” beams, in many cases active beams can be used for both heating and cooling the space. Active and passive beams are room air recirculation devices that transfer sensible heat to and from the space using water. In addition, conditioned primary air is ducted to active beams. This primary air must satisfy the ventilation and latent requirements of the space and drive the induction of room air through the beam’s coil. In the case of passive beams, this primary air is delivered to the space through a decoupled ventilation system. Active and passive beams may be integrated with acoustic ceilings or independently mounted.

The guide provides up-to-date tools and advice for designing, commissioning and operating chilled-beam systems to achieve a determined indoor climate and includes examples of active and passive beam calculations and selections.