PHINMA- University of Pangasinan

College of Engineering and Architecture

RSW #3

“MEPF SYSTEMS: MATERIALS AND DESIGN

FOR MULTI-STORY MIXED USE COMMERCIAL
BUILDING”

AR. MARIE ALYSSON MEJIA

INSTRUCTOR

BUSTO, IZZY B. BSAR3-01

STUDENT SECTION
 INTRODUCTION

MEPFS in construction refers to the integration of mechanical,

electrical, electronics, fire protection, plumbing and sanitary systems into a

building. These systems are essential for creating comfortable, safe, and

efficient environments within residential, commercial, and industrial

buildings.

MEPFS systems are integral to the structural integrity and everyday

functionality of buildings. They ensure that occupants have access to clean

water, proper climate control, and efficient power systems. These systems

also play a significant role in the sustainability and energy efficiency of

buildings, which is increasingly important in our environmentally-conscious

world.

MEP systems are a building’s central nervous system. MEP systems are

responsible for the “creature comfort” features of a structure. They make a

building livable and pleasant, no matter if it is a single-story home or a 50-

story skyscraper.

THE FIVE MAIN ELEMENTS OF MEPFS

The three main elements of MEPFS – mechanical, electrical and plumbing

systems – cover a huge spectrum of essential services and infrastructure in

buildings. From heating and ventilation systems to lighting setups, MEPFS

systems are found throughout all types of buildings.

Mechanical Systems

Mechanical components in a building include the heating, ventilation,

and air conditioning (HVAC) systems, which regulate the indoor temperature

and air quality. These systems are designed to be energy-efficient while

providing comfort to the occupants. Mechanical systems also encompass lifts

and escalators, which are critical in high-rise buildings for easy movement

between floors.

Electrical Systems

Electrical systems in a building involve the distribution and regulation

of electrical power. These systems include the building’s power supply,

lighting, and electrical outlets, which are essential for day-to-day operations.

The design and maintenance of electrical systems must ensure they’re safe,

reliable, and capable of accommodating the building’s needs.

Plumbing Systems

Plumbing systems are foundational in various buildings as it is used for

the distribution of potable water and the removal of waste water. They

include all the piping, fixtures, and fittings necessary to provide clean water
and sanitation. Additionally, plumbing systems can also involve gas piping,

which must be handled with utmost care to prevent leaks and ensure safety

within the building.

Fire Protection Drawings

Fire protection drawings detail safety systems, including sprinklers, fire

alarms, and extinguishers. They specify the locations and interconnections of

these components, ensuring compliance with fire safety codes. These

drawings are vital for protecting lives and property by providing clear

guidelines for system installation. Properly executed fire protection designs

enhance the overall safety and resilience of a building during emergencies.

BENEFITS OF MEPFS IN CONSTRUCTION

MEPFS systems provide buildings with considerable benefits that range from

improved sustainability to enhanced safety mechanisms. Some of the main

advantages of utilising MEPFS in construction include:

Enhanced Building Efficiency

Well-designed MEPFS systems significantly enhance a building’s energy

efficiency, leading to reduced operating costs and enhanced sustainability.

Using advanced technologies and sustainable practices, MEPFS systems can

minimise energy waste and lower utility bills.

Improved Safety

MEPFS can also help improve the safety of a building. They include fire

alarm systems, security systems, and emergency lighting, all of which help

protect occupants in case of emergencies. Properly designed and maintained

MEPFS systems ensure that safety measures are effective and reliable.

Increased Comfort and Functionality

MEPFS systems directly contribute to the comfort and functionality of a

building. From maintaining the ideal indoor temperature to ensuring that

there’s adequate lighting and electrical outlets, these systems are designed

to meet the specific needs of the building’s occupants.

MECHANICAL

Buildings use many types of

mechanical systems. However,

most of the mechanical design

work in residential and

commercial buildings deals with

HVAC: space heating, ventilation,

and air conditioning systems.

 These systems keep the indoor temperature and humidity within a

range that provides comfort and health.
  Mechanical ventilation also provides a constant supply of fresh air, to
keep pollutants at low and safe levels.

Mechanical installations operate at their best when equipment capacity is

adequate. Contrary to popular belief, over engineering has many negative

consequences. For example, oversized chillers and boilers tend to cycle

rapidly, wearing down faster and causing indoor temperature variations.

Another consequence of over engineering in mechanical systems is poor

control of indoor humidity.

 ASHRAE recommends keeping the relative humidity between 30% and

60%. This humidity range minimizes airborne bacteria and viruses,
while being comfortable.

 There are negative consequences when humidity falls outside this

range for extended periods. Low humidity can irritate the skin and
airways, while high humidity stimulates the growth of mold and
bacteria.

1.0 MECHANICAL DESIGN

REQUIREMENTS:

• 1.1 AIRCONDITIONING SYSTEM

• 1.2 VENTILATION SYSTEM
• 1.3 FIRE PROTECTION SYSTEM
• 1.4 STAIRWELL PRESURIZATION SYSTEM/
 OBNOXIOUS/TOXIC GAS EXTRACTION
• 1.5 LIFT (ELEVATOR) SYSTEM
• 1.6 OTHER AUXILIARY SYSTEMS
1.1.1 AIR CONDITIONING SYSTEM
• PER AREA METHOD OF AIR CONDITIONING DESIGN
• ASSUME: ONE (1) TOR FOR EVERY 15 SQ. METERS AREA
• WHERE ONE (1) TOR = 1 TON OF REFRIGERATION
• TO CALCULATE THE HP RATING OF AN AIRCONDITIONER:
• HP OF AIRCON UNIT = 1 TOR X 1.2 HP/TOR

1.1.2 EXAMPLE OF SIZING HP Of AIRCON UNIT:

• OFFICE ROOM IS 6 MTRS LONG BY 5 METERS WIDE

• CALCULATE THE TONNAGE AND THE HP RATING OF THE AIRCON UNIT
• TOR = (6 MTRS X 5 MTRS) / 15 [Link] PER TON
• TOR = 2 TONS
• TO TAL HP = 2.4 HP
• SAY USE 1 UNIT OF 2.5 HP WINDOW TYPE ACU
• OR USE 1 UNIT OF 3-TONNER SPLIT TYPE ACU

1.1.3 EXAMPLE OF SIZING HP OF AIRCON UNITS:

• OFFICE ROOM IS 12 MTRS LONG BY 6 METERS WIDE

• CALCULATE THE TONNAGE AND THE HP RATING OF THE AIRCON UNITS
• TOR = (12MTRS X 6 MTRS) / 15 [Link] PER TON
• TOR = 4.8 TONS
• TO TAL HP =5.76 HP
• SAY USE 2 UNITS OF 3-TONNER SPLIT TYPE ACUS

1.1.4 ANOTHER EXAMPLE OF SIZING HP OF AIRCON UNITS:

• OFFICE ROOM IS 24 MTRS LONG BY 8 METERS WIDE

• CALCULATE THE TONNAGE AND THE HP RATING OF THE AIRCON UNITS
• TOR = (24MTRS X 8 MTRS) / 15 [Link] PER TON
• TOR = 12.8 TONS
• TO TAL HP = 15.36 HP
• SAY USE 3 UNITS OF 5-TONNER SPLIT TYPE ACUS
1.2 VENTILATION SYSTEM

• REQUIREMENT FOR REST ROOMS/ COMFORT ROOMS:

• ASSUME 15 CUBIC FEET PER MINUTE (CFM) PER PERSON

• EXAMPLE:

• IF A REST ROOM HAS 5 WATER CLOSETS & 3 LAVATORIES, THEN

• CFM OF VENTILATION REQUIRED IS

• = (5 + 3) PERSONS X 15 CFM PER PERSON

• = 120 CFM MIN.

• SAY USE: A 160 CFM EXHAUST CEILING FAN

 ELECTRICAL

In high-rise constructions, finding the

optimal routes for electrical conduit

and wiring can save plenty of

material. There tends to be more

design flexibility than with mechanical systems, since electrical circuits use

less space and can be routed around obstacles more easily. With the aid of

MEP design software, conduit and wiring can be laid out while minimizing

total circuit length, and avoiding location conflicts with mechanical and

plumbing installations.

Lighting installations are the electrical system with the highest energy

consumption in most buildings. LED lighting is frequently recommended by

energy consultants, since it achieves typical savings of 30% to 90%,

depending on the lamp type replaced. Many design software packages can

simulate lighting, to determine the optimal number of fixtures and their

layout.

HVAC is an area that requires close collaboration between mechanical and

electrical engineers:

 Mechanical engineers calculate the space heating and air conditioning

loads, to determine equipment capacities.

 Electrical engineers design the electrical circuits and protection

measures that allow this equipment to operate continuously and safely.
Furnaces and boilers are the main HVAC components that use fossil fuels as
an energy source. Air conditioners, chillers, air handling systems and
hydronic pumps work with electricity in most cases.

2.0 ELECTRICAL DESIGN

REQUIREMENTS:

• 3.1 LIGHTING SYSTEM

• 3.2 SMALL POWER LOADS (CONVENIENCE OUTLETS)

• 3.3 AIRCONDITIONING LOADS

• 3.4 WATER HEATER LOADS

• 3.5 PUMP LOADS – DOMESTIC WATER SUPPLY, SUMP PUMP

• 3.6 FIRE PUMP & JOCKEY PUMP

• 3.7 STAIRWELL PRESSURIZATION LOADS

• 3.8 ELEVATOR LOADS

• 3.9 LOAD SCHEDULES & DESIGN COMPUTATIONS

• 3.10 FIRE DETECTION & ALARM SYSTEM (FDAS)

• 3.11 GROUNDING SYSTEM & LIGHTNING PROTECTION SYSTEM

• 3.12 AUXILIARY SYSTEMS -TELEPHONE/ INTERCOM/ CCTV/CATV/PUBLIC

ADDRESS

BASIC RULE ON BRANCH CIRCUITS

• NO BRANCH CIRCUIT SHALL BE LOADED IN EXCESS OF 80% OF ITS

AMPACITY.
 • EXAMPLE 1 FOR A 20-AMPERE CIRCUIT:

• IF THE COMPUTED LOAD CURRENT OF A BRANCH CIRCUIT IS 16.8

AMPERES, THEN THE NEXT LARGER SIZE OF WIRE MUST BE USED, EX.

30-AMPERE

• EXAMPLE 2 FOR A 30-AMPERE BRANCH CIRCUIT: THE MAXIMUM LOAD

IS 24 AMPERES..

• EXAMPLE 3 FOR A 15-AMPERE CIRCUIT: THE MAXIMUM LOAD IS 12

AMPERES.

LIGHTING SYSTEM-1

• PER AREA METHOD

• USE 24 VOLT-AMPERE (VA) PER SQUARE METER

• EXAMPLE 1: A 12M X 8M OFFICE AREA, THE VOLT-AMPERE LOAD IS,

• VA= 12M X 8M X 24 VA/ SQ. MTR

• VA= 2,304 VA

• THE LOAD CURRENT IS,

• I = VOLT-AMPERE / VOLTAGE

• I = 2,304 VA / 230 VOLTS

• I = 10.01 AMPERES

• USE A MINIMUM OF ONE 15-AMPERE BRANCH CIRCUIT

• USE 2 – 2.0MM2 THHN W/ 15AT CIRCUIT BREAKER PROTECTION FOR

THE BRANCH CIRCUIT

LIGHTING SYSTEM-2

• PER AREA METHOD

• USE 24 VOLT-AMPERE (VA) PER SQUARE METER

• EXAMPLE 2: A 24M X 6M OFFICE AREA, THE VOLT-AMPERE LOAD IS,

• VA= 24M X 6M X 24 VA/ SQ. MTR

• VA= 3,456 VA

• THE LOAD CURRENT IS,

• I = VOLT-AMPERE / VOLTAGE

• I = 3,456 VA / 230 VOLTS

• I = 15.02 AMPERES

• USE A MINIMUM OF ONE 20-AMPERE BRANCH CIRCUIT

• USE 2 – 2.0MM2 THHN W/ 20AT CIRCUIT BREAKER PROTECTION FOR

THE BRANCH CIRCUIT

SMALL POWER LOADS (CONVENIENCE OUTLETS)

• DEPENDING ON THE LAYOUT PLAN, CONVENIENCE OUTLETS SHOULD

• BE SPACED AT A MAXIMUM OF 2.4 METERS. THE PEC SPECIFIES 180

• VOLT-AMPERE LOAD RATING PER OUTLET.

• EXAMPLE 1: A 12M X 8M OFFICE AREA, THE MAX. NUMBER OF Cos IS,

• = (12M + 8M) 2 / 2.4M = 16.6, SAY 17 Cos, DUPLEX

• THE TOTAL CO VA LOAD IS,

• VA = 17 DUPLEX COs X 180VA X 2 = 6,120 VA

 • THE TOTAL LOAD CURRENT IS,

• I = 6120VA / 230 VOLTS = 26.7 AMPERES

• NO. OF CO CIRCUITS = 26.7 / 16 = 1.67, SAY 2 CIRCUITS

• USE 2 CO BRANCH CIRCUITS W/ A 20-AMPERE RATING PER CIRCUIT, 1

CO CIRCUIT WILL HAVE 8 COs AND THE OTHER CIRCUIT WILL HAVE 9

Cos, FOR THE 17 TOTAL COs..

PLUMBING

Plumbing installations are also subject

to code requirements. The plumbing

design process involves a layout of

piping routes, similar to ductwork in

mechanical design and conduit in

electrical design. MEP engineers use

advanced software to simplify the process and avoid clashes.

Plumbing installations interact with mechanical and electrical systems at

many points, and collaboration among design teams is important:

 High-rise buildings normally need water booster pumps, which run with
electricity.

 Domestic hot water systems normally use a dedicated water heater, or

a heat exchanger connected to a space heating boiler.
3.0 PLUMBING DESIGN

• DESIGN BASIS:

• TABLE 6-5 ON PAGE 73 OF THE NATIONAL PLUMBING CODE OF 1999

INDICATES THE “EQUIVALENT WATER SUPPLY FIXTURE UNITS” FOR

EVERY TYPE OF PLUMBING FIXTURES, INCLUDING LAVATORIES,

SHOWER HEADS, SINKS, WATER CLOSETS, ETC.

• SIMILARLY, TABLE 5-1 ON PAGE 107 OF THE PLUMBING DESIGN &

ESTIMATES BY MAX FAJARDO, JR. INDICATES A SIMPLIFIED “FIXTURE

UNIT VALUES” FOR VARIOUS PLUMBING FIXTURES.

PUMPS REQUIRED

• 2.1 WATER BOOSTER PUMP

• 2.2 WATER PRESSURE PUMP & PRESSURE TANK

• 2.3 CONSTANT PRESSURE PUMP/ WILO PUMP

• 2.4 SUMP PUMP

PUMP SIZING

• FOR AN UPFEED WATER DISTRIBUTION SYSTEM, ASSUMING TO FILL UP

THE 3000-LITER (800-GAL) TANK IN 30 MINUTES,

• THE MIN. CAPACITY OF THE WATER PUMP IS

• = 800 GAL/ 30 MINUTES = 26.7 GAL. PER MINUTE OR GPM, MINIMUM

• FROM PUMP PERFORMANCE TABLES (McMASTER CATALOG, PAGE 1201)

• FOR A MAXIMUM OF 60-FT HEAD, 40GPM CAPACITY, THE RATING OF

THE MOTOR DRIVE IS

• 1HP, 230V 1-PHASE 60HZ. (REFER TO PUMP SUPPLIER).

SUMP PUMP SIZING

• ASSUMING A BASEMENT PUMP AREA OF 12M X 6M OR 72 SQM, THE

ESTIMATED VOLUME OF LEAKAGE WATER AT SAY 0.20M HIGH, THE

VOLUME IS,

• VOLUME = 12 X 6 X 0.10 = 7.2 CU.M OR 1,904 GAL

• ASSUMING A 30 MINUTES PUMPING TIME, THE PUMP GPM CAPACITY IS,

• GPM = 1,904 / 30 = 63.5 GPM, MINIMUM

• OR 3,809 GAL PER HOUR OR GPH, MINIMUM

 • REFERRING TO MCMASTER, PAGE 1191,

• USE: 0.5HP 230V, 1-PH, 60HZ, 4,200 GPH, 10FT HEAD SUMP PUMP,

PLUS ADD A SPARE PUMP. (REFER TO PUMP SUPPLIER).

4.0 FIRE SUPPRESSION SYSTEM (NFPA 13)

• AS REQUIRED IN THE R.A. 9514, WHICH IS THE NEW FIRE CODE OF THE

PHILIPPINES, FOR A BUILDING NOT MORE THAN 4- STOREYS, AN

AUTOMATIC FIRE SPRINKLER SYSTEM IS NOT MANDATORY, EXCEPT IF IT

IS A HOTEL, A MOTEL, OR A DORMITORY, OR A HOSPITAL, OR A

BUILDING INTENDED TO STORE FLAMMABLE MATERIALS.

• OTHERWISE, INSTEAD OF A FIRE SPRINKLER SYSTEM, A DRY STAND-

PIPE SYSTEM COMPLETE WITH FIRE HYDRANTS WITH FIRE HOSE PER

FLOOR IS REQUIRED. IN ADDITION, FIRE EXTINGUISHERS ARE

REQUIRED IN EACH FLOOR LEVEL.

• FOR A BUILDING ABOVE 4 STOREYS, AN AUTOMATIC FIRE SPRINKLER

SYSTEM COMPLETE WITH A FIRE PUMP AND A JOCKEY PUMP IS

MANDATORY.

FIRE PUMP & JOCKEY PUMP

• JOCKEY PUMP – TO PUMP WATER FROM THE FIREWATER TANK &

MAINTAIN THE OPERATING WATER PRESSURE IN THE SYSTEM @24/7 at

 120PSI MINIMUM. MAX. CAPACITY IS 10% OF THE RATING OF THE FIRE

PUMP.

• FIRE PUMP – TO DELIVER FIRE WATER AT THE INSTANT THE CUT IN

PRESSURE IS REACHED DUE TO THE OPERATION OF A SPRINKLER

NOOZLE AFTER THE OCCURRENCE OF A FIRE.

MEP challenges for mixed-use buildings include:
Diverse Occupancy Types:

Mixed-use buildings typically have multiple occupancy types, such as

residential, commercial, and retail spaces. Each occupancy has unique MEP
requirements that need to be carefully integrated into the building’s overall
systems. For example, residential spaces require separate ventilation,
heating, and cooling systems, while commercial spaces need more robust
electrical and mechanical systems to support their operations.

Complex zoning requirements:

Mixed-use buildings often have complex zoning requirements, which

can make it challenging to design MEP systems that comply with local codes
and regulations. For example, different parts of the building may require
different levels of ventilation, lighting, and fire protection.

Space Limitations:

Mixed-use buildings often have limited space for MEP systems due to
the need to accommodate multiple occupancies. Designers must find
innovative solutions to fit MEP systems within the available space while
meeting the needs of each occupancy.

Code Compliance:

Each occupancy in a mixed-use building must comply with different

codes and regulations, including building, fire, and safety codes. MEP
systems must meet the requirements of each code, which can be a complex
and challenging process.

Noise and vibration control:

zzMixed-use buildings often have different types of spaces in close proximity

to each other, such as apartments above commercial spaces. MEP engineers
must design systems that minimize noise and vibration to avoid disturbing
occupants.

Coordination:

Coordination between different disciplines, including architects, structural

engineers, and MEP engineers, is essential in mixed-use building projects.
Designers must coordinate with each discipline to ensure that MEP systems
are integrated seamlessly with the building’s structure and design.

Energy Efficiency:

MEP systems consume a significant amount of energy in buildings. In mixed-

use buildings, where multiple occupancies with different energy needs are
present, designing an energy-efficient system can be a challenging task.

SUMMARY
MEPF (Mechanical, Electrical, Plumbing, and Fire Protection) systems
together play a big role in how multi-story mixed-use commercial buildings
function and in how safe they are. The building is exceptionally comfortable
and entirely secure for the people inside, as these systems supply
outstanding ventilation, bright lighting, clean water, and complete fire safety.
MEPF system materials have to be durable, energy-efficient, and meet
building codes. This will guarantee long-term performance. Engineers have
thoroughly designed each of these systems for integration into the structure,
consuming minimal energy and causing no ecological harm.

Several factors, such as cost, durability, along with sustainability,

determine each selection of materials for MEPF systems. Typically, ductwork
for all mechanical systems is made of either galvanized steel or aluminum,
and pipes for plumbing and fire protection can be copper, PVC, or PEX,
depending on all pressure and temperature needs. Electrical wiring usually
has conductors made of copper or aluminum, as well as insulation that
resists fire. Designers use smart technologies chosen with care, such as
automated HVAC controls and energy-efficient LED lighting, to make system
performance stronger and running costs much lower.

Proper design as well as installation of MEPF systems are necessary to

guarantee safety along with avoiding maintenance issues. Engineers use BIM
(Building Information Modeling) and other software tools extensively for
creating accurate layouts and discovering all conflicts between systems well
before construction ever commences. Regular inspections are quite helpful
for maintaining system efficiency. Adherence to industry standards is also
helpful for complying with all regulations. When high-quality materials and
revolutionary designs are chosen, MEPF systems improve building
sustainability and occupant comfort, and they allow the building to work well.

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