Air Solutions Archives

The Future of Air: How 2026 Could Transform India’s Urban Breathability

The Centre’s decision to push a year-round clean air plan in Delhi NCR regions for 2026 is a defining step shaping India’s urban breathability in the upcoming year. Introduced amidst the worsening pollution beyond hazardous levels, it marks a critical shift for tackling deteriorating AQI. It onlooks a transition from reactive, winter-centric strategies to more systematic and sustained action.

Where outdoor pollution is the major focus of the government, indoor air quality (IAQ) is the next frontier for ensuring holistic air management across cities and buildings. As per the directive by the Centre, it is mandatory for industrial clusters of the region to install air pollution control devices. Any form of non-compliance can result in closure of the industry. This calls for improvement of IAQ in large commercial and industrial spaces where modern buildings feature glass façades. Adopting a windowless design, there is hardly any scope for fresh air ventilation within the facility.

Leading to buildup of carbon dioxide and pollutants, the packed structure triggers recirculation of stale air, creating hazardous indoor environment for the occupants of the space. Prolonged exposure to poor IAQ leads to the development of a condition called Sick Building Syndrome, giving rise to severe health risks such as headaches, throat irritation, burning eyes, difficulty in breathing. It also impacts the cognitive function of the people, significantly declining their productivity, and accounts for increased absenteeism in them.

Owing to this, installing Air Handling Units (AHU) comprising of Treated Fresh Air Units (TFA) and Dedicated Outdoor Air Systems (DOAS) is a basic necessity in commercial spaces nowadays. It is only expected that the adoption rate of these advanced technologies will increase in the coming years. With the intensification of plunging air quality in urban setups, TFA systems are at the heart of protecting the indoor environment of the building.

Performing the preconditioning of incoming fresh air, the systems achieve the highest ventilation standards by introducing it to the enclosed facility. Driving the filtration and treatment of the air resists the entry of pollutants, allergens, and airborne contaminants into the room. Prolonged exposure to poor IAQ poses serious health risks. This makes it necessary for large commercial spaces such as malls, schools, offices, etc. to continuously improve the indoor air quality of the buildings.

Here, the role of TFA systems goes beyond providing optimal IAQ and aligns with energy efficiency goals at the same time. Being well-equipped with energy recovery wheels, it is proficient at reclaiming both sensible and latent energy from the exhaust air. This allows for achievement of ideal humidity and comfort without amplifying the energy demand of the building. Contributing to stable indoor environment, it gives an edge to the buildings all year round, isolating them from the impact of fluctuating outdoor conditions.

Responsible for efficient airflow, the systems significantly reduce the overall load on the conventional HVAC systems. Lowering the need for heating and cooling the space, it accounts for minimized energy consumption, translating to long-term operational savings.

Humidity is another factor determining healthy IAQ, as uncontrolled moisture triggers the growth of bacteria and fungi. It not just makes the indoor environment uncomfortable for the occupants but also has a damaging effect on the materials within the space. Here, TFA comes with the ability to monitor humidity levels and prevents the proliferation of microbes and eliminates the issue of static electricity.

Deploying Dedicated Outdoor Air Systems (DOAS) can further aid in controlling humidity by harnessing the power of passive dehumidification wheels. By introducing fresh, treated air into the room, it conducts the removal of indoor pollutants and limits the moisture to acceptable levels for eliminating unpleasant odour and occupant discomfort. Altogether, managing the RH levels, recovering energy, and mitigating cross-contamination, DOAS comprehensively improves IAQ.

As the country prepares for 2026, prioritizing clean air, there is a need to extend the conversation beyond outdoor air pollution and focus on IAQ as well. As people spend the majority of their time indoors, buildings with the ability to provide fresh air, control humidity, and drive energy efficiency are at the cusp of improving urban breathability.

Varun Pahwa (President) Desiccant Rotors International

Energy-Efficient Ventilation

Treated Fresh Air Handling Units (TFA)

DRI’s Treated Fresh Air Handling Units (TFA) are the most sought-after product for improving IAQ within large enclosed buildings. It comes with the proficiency to thoroughly ventilate the space while driving energy efficiency in the facility at the same time.

EcoFresh Molecular Sieve Coated Heat Wheel is integrated into TFA units for facilitating the achievement of good IAQ and energy saving in a single unit. There is a flexibility of adding modules as well for enabling cooling, heating, humidification, high-efficiency filtration, mixing, sound attenuation, etc.

The system allows easy maintenance and resides well for free, reliable operation. Similarly, even the filter & fan assembly requires minimal maintenance. Elaborating on the salient features, TFA incorporates standard filters – exhibits innovative design for connection system and offers a wide range of options, making it the ideal choice for hospitals, hotels, malls, offices, airports, educational institutes, pharma facilities, cold storages, and all air-conditioned spaces.

The pioneering system is capable of driving various functions in the same casing. It offers the widest range of air quantities, TFA deploys the best technology for casing manufacturing, and are AHRI certified.

The machine is highly advanced to demonstrate impressively low pressure drops across all components coils, heat exchangers, etc. to provide the lowest possible pressure drop in proportion to the highest possible efficiency, resulting in very low LCC.

Altogether, the TFA system is ideal for fresh air solutions in a conditioned space that not just enhances the IAQ but promotes energy saving as well. As a result, it is adept at meeting ventilation standards effectively while abstaining from increasing the energy cost in the process. The ability to precondition the incoming fresh air all year round significantly contributes to reducing the system capacity by 30 to 65%. Consequently, the systems go a long way in maintaining optimal humidity levels without incurring additional cost.

Dedicated Outdoor Air Systems (DOAS)

DOAS ULTIMA is one of the pioneering developments of DRI that allows designers to provide ultimate fresh air ventilation as a single source responsibly. It is a unitized Fresh Air Management System that enables handling of moisture load by utilizing Ventilation Air.

DOAS consists of highest recovery Enthalpy Wheels, EcoFresh, and patented Passive Desiccant Wheels, which promote the achievement of lower dew points, and that too without requiring a DX system. The Patented Desiccant Wheels support a unique configuration that conducts regeneration without requiring any active energy.

The system is proficient at providing fresh air at low Dew Points using chilled water coils. DOAS works on the mechanism of handling fresh air load and the room’s internal latent load by decoupling them from the internal sensible load. Here, the sensible load is majorly managed by a parallel – terminal unit/system. At the same time, the system removes moisture from a saturated air stream without heat/thermal regeneration.

DOAS is specifically designed to meet the international standards and goes a long way in driving energy savings of upto 55%. The advanced technology is highly preferred in offices, hospitality sector, hotels, malls, hospitals, etc. for its ability to improve the IEQ.

DRI Introduces Advanced Fresh Air Solutions for Large Buildings…

DRI has unveiled its latest solutions for indoor air quality (IAQ) and energy-efficient ventilation in large enclosed buildings: the Treated Fresh Air Handling Units (TFA) and Dedicated Outdoor Air Systems (DOAS)…

The TFA units integrate EcoFresh Molecular Sieve Coated Heat Wheels to deliver optimal IAQ while promoting energy savings. The modular design allows additional functions such as cooling, heating, humidification, high-efficiency filtration, mixing, and sound attenuation. Maintenance is minimal, with standard filters and fan assemblies designed for reliability and ease of service. TFA units, AHRI certified and engineered with low-pressure-drop components, are suitable for hospitals, hotels, malls, offices, airports, educational institutions, pharma facilities, cold storages, and all air-conditioned spaces. By preconditioning incoming fresh air year-round, the system can reduce system capacity by 30–65% while maintaining optimal humidity levels and controlling energy costs.

DRI’s DOAS ULTIMA system provides a unitised approach to fresh air management, handling moisture loads effectively with the help of high-recovery Enthalpy Wheels, EcoFresh, and patented Passive Desiccant Wheels. This technology allows low dew point delivery without the need for a DX system or active energy regeneration. By decoupling internal latent loads from sensible loads, DOAS improves IEQ while enabling energy savings of up to 55%. The system is particularly suited for offices, hospitality establishments, hotels, malls, and hospitals.

Together, DRI’s TFA and DOAS solutions represent a comprehensive approach to achieving high IAQ standards and energy efficiency in conditioned spaces.

How DRI Is Aligning Industrial Innovation with Environmental Goals

Sustainable practices have become an integral part of the industries, showcasing them more in the light of responsible companies. However, given the nature of operations being carried out involving large-scale manufacturing or energy-intensive processes in the form of heating, cooling, and monitoring the internal environment can take a toll on the climate. By default, the industrial operations immensely contribute to carbon emissions while being huge energy guzzlers and account for resource depletion in the process.

Desiccant Rotors International (DRI) leads the league in offering sustainable climate control solutions in the realm of the HVAC industry. It is diligently focused on providing breakthrough solutions for controlling indoor air quality and climate. In addition to this, being perceptive of the ongoing developments and the environmental impact of the industries, it has created a niche for itself in providing energy-efficient and sustainable solutions.

Specializing in improving the air quality within industrial facilities, DRI offers a range of Fresh Air Ventilation systems aimed at achieving acceptable ventilation within the space. The Air Handling Units (AHU) comprising Treated Fresh Air Units (TFA) and Dedicated Outdoor Air Systems (DOAS), are the major highlights of the house. They are primarily deployed in the industrial facility to ensure the supply of fresh air into the room while efficiently capping the energy consumption in the process. Thereby, they achieve the two-fold task of enhancing the indoor air quality and reducing the operational cost of the facility.

Delving into the benefits of TFA, the systems achieve the highest ventilation standards by preconditioning the incoming fresh air to provide excellent indoor air quality (IAQ). The systems come with the proficiency to mitigate pollutants, allergens, and contaminants, where they conduct the filtration and treatment of air before introducing it into the space. As a result, they come in handy for curtailing the spreading of airborne diseases by driving a continuous supply of clean and healthy air. In addition to this, TFA goes a long way in recovering the sensible and latent energy with the help of energy recovery wheels, offering a host of benefits in the form of improved IAQ, humidity control, and huge energy savings.

Simultaneously, it also reduces the requirement for overall system capacity where it is adept at handling and distributing the air for depleting the demand of heating, ventilation, and air conditioning (HVAC) systems. This plays a crucial role in decreasing the overall load on the system, translating to reduced operational cost and energy consumption of the systems.

To monitor humidity, DRI also offers Dedicated Outdoor Air Systems (DOAS) that also bode well for adequate ventilation of space with the removal of indoor air pollutants. Being well equipped with unique passive dehumidification wheels, it thoroughly manages relative humidity (RH) levels that amplify the energy recovery efficiency and curtail cross-contamination as well. Resisting the growth of mold, unpleasant odors, and discomfort due to uncontrolled moisture, it actively replenishes the facility with fresh air. Altogether, the systems offer a comprehensive solution aimed at boosting the air quality of the space.

Similarly, Chilled Beams, primarily recognised as room air recirculation devices, have been specifically devised to cool and ventilate the space. They ensure the comfort of people occupying the space and yield good air quality for them. When it works in combination with DOAS, it steers the energy-efficient operation of the system. Chilled Beams curtail the energy consumption by 20-25% in contrast to traditional systems, emerging as the most energy-efficient solution.

Likewise, Energy Recovery Ventilators (ERVs) allow remarkable energy savings when working towards maintaining good air quality within the enclosed space. Well equipped with EcoFresh Energy Recovery Wheels, the system drives the recovery of both sensible and latent energy, resulting in high energy transfer efficiency.

Drawing parallels from competitive solutions offered by DRI, it can be established that the company is committed to achieving the overarching goal of a greener future. With strong roots in innovation, it boasts intensive research and development with a focus on curating advanced technologies that exhibit unmatched performance and contribute to the sustainability of the systems at the same time. It is well aligned to gauge the emerging industrial dynamics and introduce next-generation solutions accordingly.

Driven by the purpose of reducing the environmental impact, DRI itself incorporates sustainability into its practices, where one of its facilities in Manesar has been accredited with Platinum Certified Green Factory Building. Therefore, DRI is at the forefront of reducing, reusing, and recycling resources, which is in tandem with curbing resource wastage aimed at contributing to sustainable growth.

Shaping the future of HVAC: innovations, sustainability, and market growth

The HVAC industry is evolving with a strong focus on energy efficiency, indoor air quality, and sustainable solutions. Varun Pahwa, President at Desiccant Rotors International, discusses advancements, the role of low-GWP refrigerants, and how cutting-edge technology is shaping building management for a greener future.

How do you perceive the HVAC industry in 2025?

The HVAC landscape looks promising for 2025 and beyond, majorly fuelled by infrastructure development. The growth in construction and rise of buildings are boosting the demand for the HVAC industry, further supported by the proliferation of hypermarkets and the flourishing of more shopping complexes and malls. On account of this, the HVAC sector is very likely to grow at a phenomenal rate, with WebFx expecting the global market to exceed $367 billion by 2030, projecting a CAGR of 3.9 percent between the forecasted period of 2020 and 2030.

What latest advancements have taken place in your expertise field within the HVAC industry?

With sustainability at its core, the advancement of the HVAC sector majorly hinges on energy-efficient solutions. Companies are adapting to new energy efficiency regulations with alacrity, focusing on R&D to implement safe energy and cost-effective HVAC solutions. Due to this, the HVAC players ensure certifications of Seasonal Energy Efficiency Ratio 2 (SEER) and Heating Seasonal Performance Factor 2 (HSPF) systems to comply with industry standards.

In addition to energy efficiency, the sector is influenced by the rising demand for improved indoor air quality (IAQ). With consumers becoming aware of IAQ and the impact of indoor air pollutants on the health of occupants, it is the need of the hour to innovate for advanced filtration technologies and incorporate best practices to provide improved IAQ.

Along similar lines, we at DRI offer Treated Fresh Air Handling (TFA) systems to fulfil the ventilation standards and achieve excellent IAQ by preconditioning the incoming fresh air. These systems conduct the filtration and treatment of air to eliminate pollutants, allergens, and contaminants before the air is introduced to the enclosed space. The systems bode well for the continuous supply of clean and healthy air and go a step further by incorporating energy recovery wheels to recover both sensible and latent energy, facilitating energy saving while improving IAQ and controlling humidity.

How do low-GWP refrigerants help reduce greenhouse gas emissions?

HVAC systems with high global warming potential (GWP) invariably increase greenhouse gases, triggering climate change. The very common hydrofluorocarbons (HFC) used in the systems can be considered an environmental threat, so transitioning to low GWP can significantly offer eco-friendly solutions.

Opting for natural refrigerants like hydrocarbons, carbon dioxide, ammonia, HFOs (Hydrofluoroolefins), etc., can reduce carbon emissions and exercise the economy in terms of energy usage. Taking the offering a step further, industry players are also focusing on bringing about the confluence of HFOs and HFCs to amplify the mitigation of GWP.

How can design and technology improve building management and the built environment?

Integrating advanced technologies in HVAC systems can significantly enhance buildings’ performance. Variable frequency drives (VFDs) facilitate precise system control and oversee energy consumption modulation. Similarly, energy recovery ventilators (ERVs) drive optimal ventilation, enabling heat and humidity exchange between incoming and outgoing air. Moreover, installing smart technologies in building automation systems employs energy management strategies that monitor and regulate the systems based on occupancy patterns. In the process, AI and IoT-driven systems utilize the data points to enable centralized monitoring.

What do you look for during ACREX 2025?

Ever since the inception of ACREX, we have been active participants in every edition. Considering that it is the biggest exhibition in the HVAC sector, even this year, we look forward to expanding our networking with the event. It will open the gateway for tapping the potential target audience and showcase our advanced technologies catering to the evolving needs of the industry.

Impact of surging air pollution on IAQ of commercial and industrial spaces

The onset of winter marks a significant rise in air pollution. Every year, there is profound deterioration in the quality of air during the period, and this year as well, the AQI of the capital city plunged to the ‘severe category’ for eight consecutive days. Though the pollution levels have reduced in the past few days, with AQI improving marginally to 310 as per the Central Pollution Control Board records, the vulnerability to pollution still persists in the city. Additionally, experts have shown concerns about the quality slipping back to the severe category with hazy conditions still prevailing in major parts of the city and its adjoining areas.

With the capital city striving to counter the air pollution, it is important to understand that the impact is not just limited to outside but is also responsible for influencing the air quality within the enclosed spaces. The worst affected are commercial and industrial spaces facing the challenge of poor indoor air quality (IAQ) as contaminated air remains trapped within the space. Given the large and complex structure of these spaces, such as offices, schools, airports, hotels, etc., they are often marked by excessive buildup of pollutants, dust, and allergens due to packed buildings. This in turn leads to a hike in levels of PM2.5, PM10, carbon dioxide, VOCs, etc., giving rise to a range of respiratory problems such as bronchitis, asthma, and lung inflammation, along with cardiovascular issues and neurological disorders in a person. Moreover, as per the study by IIT Kanpur, the level of PM 2.5 peaks during the month of November, where the pattern continues in December as well, with pollution still being a matter of concern. With PM 2.5 levels surpassing the mark of 1000 in the 3rd week of November, it becomes essential to improve the IAQ of the large spaces. Furthermore, long-term exposure to poor IAQ has also been linked to the development of a condition called Sick Building Syndrome (SBS) among the occupants. In this condition, people complain about issues such as fatigue, headaches, lethargy, nausea, wheezing, throat irritation, etc. In addition to this, SBS is also responsible for reduced productivity and absenteeism in the person, as unhealthy indoor air can also affect the physical and mental well-being of people. However, given the inherently complicated structure of commercial and industrial spaces, improving the IAQ cannot be done alone and requires the intervention of advanced technologies. Here, installing Air Purification Systems (APS) can come in handy for maintaining good IAQ across the space by conducting the removal of outdoor air pollutants at the source itself. It offers a proactive solution with the help of a “beginning-of-the-tube” system where purification of air is performed at the source by harnessing the benefits of advanced filtration technologies. The APS systems exercise an edge over the other standard air purifiers by purging the air before it enters the facility rather than treating the outdoor air inside the building, risking the mixture of outside contaminated air with the indoor environment. In order to address the air quality issues proficiently, the APS systems employ innovative solutions in the form of honeycomb-designed chemical filters. They conduct 100% elimination of gaseous contaminants before they infiltrate indoor spaces and check the entry of harmful particulate and gaseous pollutants at multiple levels. To further fortify the process, the systems also prevent the infiltration of contaminated air into the building by maintaining positive pressure across the space. Along with this, it ensures thorough cleaning of outside air, making use of proper particulate and chemical filtration. Looking at the health repercussions of poor IAQ in large spaces, adopting advanced Air Purification Systems can go a long way in curtailing the contamination of air indoors. With rising outdoor air pollution, these systems play a crucial role in improving indoor air quality in commercial and industrial spaces by effectively preventing pollutants from entering the indoor environment.

Optimizing Workspace Air Quality for Employee Safety

Prioritizing good air quality in workspaces has been gaining a lot of traction in recent years. With employees spending the majority of their time in their offices, it becomes crucial for organizations to provide a healthy and safe environment to them. The modern workspace infrastructure is generally characterized by enclosed spaces, lacking windows to accommodate air conditioning systems. As a result, the structures give rise to a sealed indoor environment with hardly any scope for fresh air ventilation.

Unlike the common misconception that air conditioning improves the air quality of the space, it comes as a surprise for many that systems recirculate stale air. Additionally, with the space occupied by a large number of people, it continuously contributes to the build-up of carbon dioxide and pollutants within the space as it is unable to find an escape to the outside. All the factors together account for poor air quality and severely impact the health of the occupants. If left unattended, the poor IAQ can give rise to a range of health issues in a person, such as respiratory issues, allergies, and serious conditions of cardiovascular disease as well.

Moreover, continual exposure to poor IAQ can result in the development of Sick Building Syndrome, where the occupants are very likely to face breathing issues, headaches, asthma, fatigue, and pain in the eyes. Severely compromising the health and comfort of the person, lethargy and absenteeism are some common issues that impact the productivity of the individuals. As a result, it becomes a prerequisite to install technologies that improve the air quality of the workspace, aimed at enabling an efficient work process accompanied by enhanced concentration.

To achieve good air quality, employing Treated Fresh Air Handling (TFA) systems is essential. These systems precondition the incoming fresh air to meet ventilation standards and maintain excellent indoor air quality (IAQ). By filtering and treating the air before it enters the space, TFA systems eliminate pollutants, allergens, and contaminants, effectively impeding the spread of airborne diseases. As a result, these units ensure a consistent supply of clean and healthy air, significantly reducing health issues associated with poor air quality. Additionally, TFA systems are equipped with energy recovery wheels, which recover both sensible and latent energy, contributing to improved IAQ, humidity control, and energy savings.

The advanced systems bode well for achieving optimal indoor air quality throughout the year, irrespective of the weather conditions outside. Providing a stable and comfortable environment, the systems invariably contribute to high levels of engagement and motivation among the employees, enhancing their overall performance round the year.

In the pursuit of meeting the ventilation standards, the advanced technologies also vouch for energy efficiency. Striving to save energy while maximizing the energy recovery efficiency, they eliminate the need to increase the energy costs of the building. Here, by exercising the efficient airflow for ensuring the appropriate circulation of fresh air, the units come in handy for reducing the need for excessive heating and cooling of the space. Taking a holistic approach, they not just contribute to saving energy but extend to reducing the operational costs of the workspace at the same time.

To achieve the purpose, the Treated Fresh Air Handling Units ensure uniform distribution of air, which significantly curtails the demand for heating, ventilation, and air conditioning (HVAC) systems. Reducing the overall load of the system, there is a remarkable plunge in the operational cost as well as the energy consumption of the building. Consequently, by installing the systems, businesses can successfully achieve the twofold task of enhancing air quality within the workspace, which clocks substantial energy savings. While focusing on optimizing the air quality of the space, humidity is often neglected by people. But exercising humidity control is a crucial step towards providing a healthy indoor environment to the employees.

Here, the Dedicated Outdoor Air Systems (DOAS) harness the benefit of unique passive dehumidification wheels for ensuring adequate ventilation of the space. Coming with the ability to eliminate indoor air pollutants while monitoring humidity levels, the system replenishes fresh air to create a more pleasant and productive workspace.

The ability to control the relative humidity plays a crucial role in resisting the growth of mold, bacteria, fungi and prevents the issue of unpleasant odour and discomfort caused by excess moisture. In addition to this, monitoring the humidity can go a long way in safeguarding the office equipment and materials from any potential damage, retaining their longevity and reliability for a long time. Looking at the wide gamut of advantages optimal air quality has to offer for the workspace, it goes a long way in scaling the overall performance of the business.

Promoting the health and safety of the employees along with a comfortable space invariably improves the concentration and productivity of the occupants. In the process, employing Treated Air Handling Units can be considered a strategic business investment because it offers a comprehensive solution for providing energy-efficient ventilation. Conducting pre-conditioning of incoming air guarantees a consistent supply of fresh air. At the same time, monitoring the humidity levels of the space, the systems are an ideal option for ensuring the health and safety of the occupants.

Authored by:

Varun Pahwa
President,
Desiccant Rotors International

Respiratory diseases: The role of indoor air quality in reducing the risk of disease

Modern-day glass facade buildings, commonly found in urban landscapes, often prioritize aesthetics and energy efficiency over proper ventilation. These structures typically rely heavily on air conditioning (AC) systems, with little to no provision for natural airflow or fresh air intake. As a result, indoor air quality (IAQ) in such buildings is often compromised, leading to a buildup of pollutants, dust, and allergens, which can exacerbate respiratory diseases.

Without sufficient ventilation, the concentration of indoor contaminants increases, creating an environment that can negatively impact occupants’ health. Prolonged exposure to poor IAQ, especially in commercial and industrial spaces where people spend most of their day, can lead to respiratory issues, fatigue, headaches, and in some cases, long-term chronic illnesses. As these buildings are sealed to improve energy efficiency, the lack of fresh air circulation worsens the problem, making it imperative to address IAQ concerns to ensure the well-being of occupants.

The spaces extensively depend on centralized air conditioning to keep the temperature cool, but in the process, the systems promote recirculation of stale air. This leads to the buildup of excess carbon dioxide and pollutants as there is no adequate escape for the indoor air. Hence, it is important to focus on meeting the optimal ventilation standards. Incorporating natural ventilation can bring a lot of relief, but to exercise ventilation of large spaces, Adapting towards using advanced HVAC systems can be of great help. It ensures efficient airflow for encouraging proper circulation of fresh air across the room, and in the process, it substantially reduces the excessive need to heat or cool a space.

The absence of fresh air leads to Sick Building Syndrome (SBS), a condition where occupants experience symptoms like fatigue, headaches, and lethargy. SBS is a major contributor to increased respiratory issues and reduced productivity, as the unhealthy indoor environment affects both physical and mental well-being. Poor ventilation exacerbates the problem, allowing pollutants to accumulate within the space, which, over time, severely impacts respiratory health.

Indoors with poor air quality are packed rooms filled with harmful contaminants like particulate matter, volatile organic compounds (VOCs), and microorganisms, which aggravate respiratory conditions such as asthma, bronchitis, and sinusitis.

This severely underscores the importance of improving the indoor air quality of the building. Ensuring the proper ventilation of space and deploying advanced HVAC systems can play a pivotal role in enhancing the quality of indoor air. Elaborating on the same, let’s explore ways to improve the indoor air quality of the space.

Treatment of pollutants

In order to keep the contaminants in check, installing Treated Fresh Air Handling (TFA) systems come with a lot of benefits. It conducts the filtration of incoming air for supplying fresh air free from any pollutants, allergens, or contaminants. Pre-conditioning the air before it enters the room, it curtails the probability of airborne diseases in people residing in the space.

Humidity control

Humidity is a crucial factor responsible for poor IAQ. But excess moisture in the air is the playground for the proliferation of microorganisms such as bacteria, fungi, mold, mildew, etc., which can cause nasal and throat irritation, aggravate asthma attacks, irritate the respiratory system responsible for bronchitis, sinusitis, etc.

Therefore, making use of Dedicated Outdoor Air Systems aids in controlling the humidity of the space while exercising proper ventilation of the space. At the same time, they help in removing the unpleasant odour due to humidity and contribute to the comfort of the occupants.

Green Buildings

Understanding the importance of IAQ in keeping respiratory diseases at bay, going for green building solutions significantly comes to aid in maintaining acceptable air quality within the enclosed space. Moreover, considering that the wave of sustainability is being realized across the sector, industry players are adopting net-zero buildings with alacrity. Making use of sustainable materials with negligible emissions of harmful VOCs, the structures inherently ensure that pollution within the space is controlled. At the same time, by incorporating smart designs, the buildings prioritize proper air filtration and natural ventilation of the rooms. Therefore, by maintaining a healthy indoor environment, smart buildings ensure the well-being of the occupants.

Author: Varun Pahwa, President, Desiccant Rotors International

Optimizing the air quality of commercial spaces with advanced HVAC systems

With people becoming highly conscious about their health, there has been rising awareness around the poor IAQ in commercial spaces. Modern-day commercial spaces are generally glass skyscrapers exhibiting a complex and packed structure with no space of windows for accommodating air conditioning systems. Restricting any scope of fresh air ventilation, the facilities can significantly contribute to poor indoor air quality (IAQ), which can negatively impact the health of the occupants.

Spaces such as malls, hospitals, large office buildings, airports, and other facilities are generally huddled by a large number of people, which leads to the buildup of carbon dioxide and pollutants, responsible for poor IAQ within the space. The situation is further worsened by the air conditioning systems recirculating the stale air, making the indoor environment hazardous for the occupants. It can potentially give rise to a range of health issues entailing respiratory problems, allergies, and even serious conditions of cardiovascular diseases. Prolonged exposure to poor IAQ is also responsible for the development of a condition called Sick Building Syndrome, where people become susceptible to various allergies and life-threatening diseases. It also comes with the ability to affect cognitive function, giving rise to a decline in productivity coupled with increased absenteeism in a person.

This necessitates the deployment of advanced technologies that work towards enhancing the quality of air in the commercial facilities. To achieve acceptable air quality, the industry should proactively consider installing Fresh Air Ventilation systems in tandem with the air conditioning units to provide comprehensive ventilation solutions within the space. Making use of Air Handling Units (AHU) entailing Treated Fresh Air Units (TFA) and Dedicated Outdoor Air Systems (DOAS) provides a viable solution for introducing fresh air into the space while reducing energy consumption, translating to a decrease in the operational cost of the building.

To achieve good air quality, employing Treated Fresh Air Handling (TFA) systems is essential. These systems precondition the incoming fresh air to meet ventilation standards and maintain excellent indoor air quality (IAQ).
By filtering and treating the air before it enters the space, TFA systems eliminate pollutants, allergens, and contaminants, effectively impeding the spread of airborne diseases. As a result, these units ensure a consistent supply of clean and healthy air, significantly reducing health issues associated with poor air quality. Additionally, TFA systems are equipped with energy recovery wheels, which recover both sensible and latent energy, contributing to improved IAQ, humidity control, and energy savings.

Another major advantage of the system relies on its ability to optimize indoor air quality round the year. Contributing to a stable and comfortable environment, it alleviates health risks and boosts the productivity of the occupants, irrespective of the weather conditions outside. Delivering fresh air continuously, it maintains air quality at acceptable levels for indoor settings. In educational institutes or offices, this plays a pivotal role in elevating the motivation and engagement of the people, resulting in overall better performance of the individuals.

In addition to this, TFA systems come with the ability to provide energy-efficient solutions. It is proficient at meeting the desired ventilation standards without amplifying the energy cost of the building. Striving to manage the airflow efficiently, it ensures appropriate circulation of fresh air, negating the excessive need of heating or cooling the enclosed space. As a result, the benefit is not just limited to energy savings but eventually translates to a significant reduction in the operational costs of the facility as well.

Elaborating on the advantages of the system, TFA can bring about a significant reduction in overall system capacity requirements. By handling and distributing the air efficiently, the system lowers demand for heating, ventilation, and air conditioning (HVAC) systems. Ultimately contributing to a reduction in the overall load of the system, it culminates in lowering the operational costs and energy consumption of the systems.

In the pursuit of improving the IAQ, people generally tend to overlook humidity. But maintaining the optimal humidity of the space is crucial for achieving the desired result. Moisture in the air is responsible for the proliferation of bacteria and fungi, which can impact the health of the person. Therefore, TFA aids in controlling humidity within acceptable limits and prevents the growth of microorganisms and the issue of static electricity. In the process of eliminating humidity from the air, it does not incur additional cost, making it a cost-effective solution for commercial spaces. In addition to ensuring the health and safety of the people occupying the space, maintaining proper humidity protects the various materials present in the space and preserves the longevity and reliability of the materials.

Here, the Dedicated Outdoor Air Systems (DOAS) can also be beneficial for addressing the issue of humidity. Well equipped with unique passive dehumidification wheels, it ventilates the space adequately by removing indoor air pollutants, monitoring humidity levels, and replenishing fresh air in the process. Managing the humidity level, it plays a pivotal role in addressing the issue of mold growth, unpleasant odors, and discomfort arising from excessive moisture. Resisting the accumulation of pollutants, odors, and contaminants, it supplies fresh air for a comfortable, healthy, and productive environment. Therefore, managing the RH (relative humidity) levels, maximizing energy recovery efficiency, and reducing cross-contamination provides a comprehensive solution for improving the air quality of the space.

Therefore, looking at the complexity of the commercial facilities, employing the systems can come in handy for optimizing the air quality. Looking at the wide gamut of benefits the systems have to offer, entailing pre-conditioning of incoming air, delivery of fresh air, energy-efficient ventilation, and humidity control, they are very likely to prioritize the health and safety of the occupants. And in the process, the systems also reduce the load on the HVAC systems, making them a viable and practical solution for large, complex buildings.

Cooling Solutions for Hot Factories

By Debashish Roy Choudhury AVP, ARCTIC Division, DRI | Added 29 July 2022

Industrial Evaporative Cooling emerges as the most suitable option for providing cooling solutions in a factory

Evaporative Cooling is highly preferred by the factory settings for its economical cooling solutions. Considering that factories are involved in the mass manufacturing of products, they inherently encompass large space. It is coupled with complex structures for allowing the critical processes within the premises. Factories are home to heavy machines for carrying out all the critical processes like design specification, parts assemblage, raw materials processing, and execution of various crucial processes. Consequently, a lot of heat is generated within the premises which can have a damaging effect on the quality of the end product. Along with this, heat creates an uncomfortable environment leaving unsuitable conditions for work.

This highly meddles with the productivity of employees as heat leads to discomfort among them accounting for reduced accuracy. Given that cooling such a large space becomes tricky, the owners/ managers are always on the lookout for a comprehensive cost-effective cooling solution that accommodates the various aspects of a factory setting. It is very important to control the high temperatures as it can also damage the equipment over a period of time. But opting for an air conditioning system is a highly expensive option. It involves a lot of challenges to install a large number of systems which only gets compounded with the high installation, operational, and maintenance costs levied on the company.

Hence, depending on the natural resources, evaporative cooling considerably brings down the running cost of the cooler. Moreover, the high saturation efficiency of the machine backed up with self-supporting, and highly adsorbent materials further reduces the load on the cooling capacity of the system. All the factors together reduce the power required by the fan which achieves the same level of cooling at par with the air conditioning system. Cumulatively, there is 80 percent less electricity consumption when compared to air conditioners. Therefore, the entire efficiency of the evaporative cooling solution drastically brings down the operational cost where the installation cost requires almost negligible investment when compared to the other alternatives present in the market.

Owing to its wide gamut of benefits, the innovative cooling solution finds application in a number of industries ranging from automotive, food, engineering, textile, plastics, and many more. Given the cool comfortable working conditions, it escalates the attention span and hence the accuracy of the employees. Additionally, it also reduces the risk of illness arising from the poor air quality within the space. Hence, evaporative cooling is the most ideal and economical solution for the factory setup. Scaling the efficiency brand like ARCTIC comes with a deep understanding and expertise in duct designing, specially designed cooling pads, exhaust design systems for stale hot air displacement, and allowing cool fresh air to be introduced effectively and economically. (The author is AVP, ARCTIC Division, DRI)