EPA’s New Direction 8 Closed-Loop Heating 23 Simoneau Speaks 28

MARCH/APRIL 2025
www.hpac.com

IAQ LESSONS:
KITCHEN
VENTILATION
UNDER ANALYSIS
Dr. Kishor Khankari cooks up a novel
computational fluid dynamics study
for pollutant dispersion via new
metrics. See pg. 16

Clark’s Remarks:
Earth Day’s
Bipartisan Roots
See Page 34

2504HPAC_C1_Cover.indd 1 3/24/2025 4:56:02 PM

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 Contents MARCH/APRIL 2025
Volume 97 • Number 2

E
COVER STORY:
bernardbodo/iStock / Getty Images Plus

CFD Analysis of
Pollutant Dispersion in
Kitchens
The impact of exhaust flow rate on the
dispersion of NO2 in a multiunit residential

16
kitchen was evaluated, using new metrics
developed by the author to ensure proper IAQ
levels for occupants.
By Kishor Khankari, PhD

FEATURES
23 Optimizing the
Chemistry Behind
Closed-Loop
Heating Systems
As heating networks become
more complex, water treatment
programs need to evolve beyond
23 10
traditional inhibitor dosing and
flushing cycles. DEPARTMENTS
By Michael Warady
8 Editor’s Notes
26 District Heating As EPA Resets, Engineers
Remain Focused on Mission
Must Pivot To By Rob McManamy
Energy Efficiency
Advanced electrode boilers
can replace outdated fuel-burning 26 30 New Products
equipment and still meet ambitious
decarbonization goals.
34 Recalling Earth Day’s
By Del Williams Bipartisan Roots
Today’s polarized politics betray the popular
consensus that existed in 1970.
BOILER SYSTEMS By Larry Clark

ENGINEERING HPAC Engineering (USPS Permit 464-930, ISSN 0039-0895 print, ISSN

28
1930-8957 online) is published 6x a year (Jan/Feb, Mar/Apr, May/Jun, Jul/
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10
caused by errors or omissions in the material herein, regardless of whether
ASHRAE Wraps Memorable such errors result from negligence, accident, or any other cause whatsoever.

Winter Conference The views and opinions in the articles herein are not to be taken as official
expressions of the publishers, unless so stated. The publishers do not warrant
Held concurrently with AHR Expo, the engineering meeting drew either expressly or by implication, the factual accuracy of the articles herein,
3,800 attendees to Orlando nor do they so warrant any views or opinions by the authors of said articles.

4 HPAC ENGINEERING MARCH/APRIL 2025

2504HPAC_C2-5_TOC.indd 4 3/24/2025 2:29:05 PM 2504HP

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 EDITORIAL OFFICE

MEMBERS ONLY PODCASTS 8001 Lincoln Ave. • Suite 720

Skokie, IL 60077
www.hpac.com

Breaking Barriers, Listening EXECUTIVE TEAM

CEO: CHRIS FERRELL
to Customers, with COO: PATRICK RAINS
ABMA’s Nancy Simoneau CRO: PAUL ANDREWS
*PODCAST* We chat with the first-ever CDO: JACQUIE NIEMIEC
CALO: TRACY KANE
woman to lead the American Boiler
CMO: AMANDA LANDSAW
Manufacturers Association, as well as the
EVP, GROUP PUBLISHER –
first international member to fill that role. BUILDINGS, ENERGY & WATER:
www.hpac.com/55271779 MIKE CHRISTIAN

EDITORIAL CONTACTS

MEMBERS ONLY WEBINARS MIKE EBY

Group Editorial Director
[email protected]
ROB MCMANAMY
Equivalent Clean Airflow Editor-in-Chief
[email protected]
and Air Cleaners, Keys to DAVID ECKHART
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[email protected]
NOW ON DEMAND: Recorded 11/18,
IAQ expert Dr. Bill Bahnfleth explains this SALES CONTACTS
revolutionary concept, redefining standards MIDWEST
BILL BOYADJIS
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HPAC 2025: [email protected]
Our March Quiz! LIST RENTAL
SMART REACH
*SPRING TRAINING* As our climate- [email protected] effective
controlled world shifts from heating PRODUCTION
to cooling this month, we review some AND CIRCULATION
basics. Take the quiz! Win prizes! RITA FITZGERALD
Senior Production Manager
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FEELING SOCIAL? JAMES MARINACCIO
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6 HPAC ENGINEERING MARCH/APRIL 2025 All Rights Reserved

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3/13/25 PMAM
7:44
 EDITOR’S NOTES BY ROB MCMANAMY, EDITOR-IN-CHIEF

As EPA Resets, Engineers EDITORIAL

ADVISORY BOARD:

Remain Focused on Mission William P. Bahnfleth,

O
PhD, PE
n March 12th, new EPA Admin- “To this point, we have not seen our cli- The Pennsylvania State
istrator Lee Zeldin announced ents back away from their long-term plans University
that the federal agency was to transition out of the current technologies
undertaking 31 actions to roll into the next,” said fellow Advisory Board Glenn Barrett, PE
back several regulations and reconsider member Glenn Barrett, engineering man- DC Engineering
many others, including rules requiring the ager at DC Engineering in Spokane WA. In
reporting and tracking of greenhouse gas 2022, Barrett presented a webinar for HPAC David W. Bearg, PE
emissions, and others affecting the ongoing Engineering, ‘Refrigerants Reckoning,’ to Life Energy Associates
refrigerant transition. help readers prepare for the national transi-
Not surprisingly, the announcement tion that is now upon us. Lawrence (Larry) Clark,
caused concern among the mechanical QCxP, GGP, LEED AP+
“While this Administration now is work-
Sustainable Performance
engineering community, as it signaled a ing to roll back (EPA) requirements in the
Solutions LLC
dramatic change in federal environmental name of being competitive and cost effective,
policy. With that in mind, to gauge reaction we don’t know what the next Administration
Kenneth M. Elovitz, PE, Esq.
among engineers, I reached out to HPAC will do, or the one after that, or the one after Energy Economics Inc.
Engineering’s Editorial Advisory Board, that. So, many of our clients are looking at
as well as Kent Peterson, P.E., chair of the long game in this regard.” Charles E. Gulledge III, PE,
ASHRAE’s Center of Excellence for Build- It is the uncertainty of the moment that HBDP, LEED AP, FASHRAE
ing Decarbonization (CEBD). is creating the most angst. Environmental Air
An ASHRAE Past President (2007-2008) “Historically, we have seen that when Systems LLC
and founder of P2S Inc., an engineering and federal regulations back away from require-
consulting firm based in Long Beach CA, ments, then the state level increases to com- Elise Kiland, PE, YEA
Peterson authored our cover story on decar- pensate,” added Barrett. “At the moment, Cambio.ai
bonization technology last summer and though, we honestly don’t know how this
has been a guest on the ‘HPAC On The Air’ will play out. On one hand, we certainly Nancy Kohout, PE, LEED AP
podcast. His firm response surprised me. appreciate the significant cost and hard- SmithGroup
“It has zero impact on what we’re doing,” ship to facility owners whenever a complete
said Peterson. “It doesn’t really impact our equipment replacement is required. But on Valentine A. Lehr, PE,
work at the state level, either. And to be hon- the other hand, manufacturers have also FASHRAE
est, I haven’t seen anybody backing off on spent millions on R&D, new product devel- Lehr Consultants
anything yet this year. Remember, most of opment, and listings preparing for this.” International
these announcements are ‘reconsiderations’ of So, for now, the mindset among HVACR
rules, so we are a long way away from anything engineers appears to be one of just putting Ginger Scoggins, PE, CEM,
CxA, LEED AP, FASHRAE
concrete. I think we all should just take a deep their heads down and pushing forward. Said
Engineered Designs Inc.
breath and see where we are in six months.” Peterson, “There was a lot of discussion at
Sound advice from an experienced our winter meeting in Orlando about where
James P. Waltz, PE,
industry practitioner. Noted Peterson, “The things were headed, but ASHRAE Secretary CEM, ACFE
industry is already well down this road,” Jeff Littleton just reassured everyone, ‘We’re Energy Resource
suggesting that many manufacturers and staying true to our mission.’” Associates Inc.
facility owners have already come too far For the last three years, for Peterson and
to turn back now. members of CEBD (formerly ASHRAE’s Task Michael K. West, PhD, PE
“Captains of industry are not going to Force on Decarbonization), that mission has Advantek Consulting
change complex and important standards involved 90-minute meetings every other
based on politics,” added Ron Wilkinson, week, “and the agenda is always full,” he noted. Ron Wilkinson, PE, LEED AP
P.E., LEED AP, a longtime member of HPAC As an international society, (ASHRAE) “needs Wilkinson Commissioning
Engineering’s Editorial Advisory Board and to be out in front on climate change. So we are Management
the creator of the popularJohnny Tundra: committed to the science. And as a technical
Cold-Weather Engineer series. Wilkinson is an organization, that’s the way it should be.” Gerald J. Williams, PE,
expert in building commissioning practices. Steady as she goes, for now. LEED AP
8760 Engineering LLC

8 HPAC ENGINEERING MARCH/APRIL 2025

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 NEWS & NOTES

ASHRAE Wraps Memorable Winter Conference

Held concurrently with AHR Expo, the engineering meeting drew 3,800 attendees to Orlando

ASHRAE
ASHRAE recognized donors to its Research Promotion campaign in Orlando. For a full list of donors, visit ashrae.org/rp.

T
he 2025 ASHRAE Winter Conference brought • Seminar 11: Advances in AI Technologies for the Build-
together HVACR industry leaders, experts and ings Industry.
professionals for an engaging and impactful The most popular livestreamed session was Seminar 36:
event focused on key topics such as artificial Interdisciplinary Dimensions of Occupant Behavior, Indoor
intelligence, emerging technologies and work- Environmental Quality for Building Health.
force development. In his State of the Society Address, 2024-25 ASHRAE
Taking place February 8-12 in Orlando FL, the confer- President M. Dennis Knight provided updates on the
ence attracted close to 3,800 attendees and featured more current Society Year theme: Empowering Our Workforce,
than 400 committee meetings, 111 technical sessions and Building a Sustainable Future.
numerous networking events. Running concurrently, the “As we look to the future, I call upon each of you to
AHR Expo occupied the Orange County Convention continue to be passionate ambassadors for our industry,”
Center, hosting more than 1,800 exhibitors, showcasing said Knight. “Share your stories, engage in conversations,
the latest HVACR technologies, products and services to and inspire the next generation of professionals. We
an estimated 50,000 attendees over three days. need to demonstrate to the world what we do and the
Among the most well-attended in-person sessions were: profound impact our industry is making today. And the
• Seminar 13: Low and Ultra-low GWP Refrigerants and even greater potential it holds is in the future to address
Equipment to comply with Current and Future Decarbon- indoor environmental quality, sustainable development
ization Efforts; and resiliency,” he added.
• Seminar 8: Earth, Heat and Ice: Expanding the Effec- Knight highlighted progress on key initiatives, including
tiveness of Geothermal Systems Using Ice Storage; a newly-released workforce development roadmap which
• Seminar 42: The Wonderful World of Dedicated Out- outlines strategies for attracting, engaging and retaining
door Air Systems and Energy Recovery Equipment; talent to the HVACR industry. Knight’s full State of the
• Seminar 25: Energy Storage Solutions to Enhance Society address manuscript and presentation can be found
Building and Grid Resilience; at ashrae.org/president.

10 HPAC ENGINEERING MARCH/APRIL 2025

2504HPAC_10-15_News.indd 10 3/24/2025 2:45:39 PM

 During the conference, President Knight announced the meaningful advancements that shape the future of HVACR,
winners of the 2024-25 ASHRAE Decarbonization Chal- he added. “ASHRAE is not just adapting to change—we
lenge, a grant program supporting ASHRAE chapters in are leading it.”
implementing local projects focused on energy efficiency
and emissions reduction. The challenge, led by the Young
Engineers in ASHRAE (YEA) committee, received 14 proj- Our commitment to
ect submissions, awarding seven projects with grants rang-
ing from $2,970 to $10,000, totaling $59,970.
innovation, knowledge-sharing
Further reinforcing its commitment to industry innova- and workforce development is
tion, ASHRAE announced the establishment of the $1 mil-
lion Gordon Holness Presidential Fund. Created through an stronger than ever.
endowment, this fund will provide an annual $50,000 grant
in perpetuity to support ASHRAE chapters in developing —ASHRAE Secretary Jeff Littleton
and executing creative solutions to some of the industry’s
most pressing building challenges. Holness, who served In addition, the ASHRAE Learning Institute (ALI) also
as ASHRAE President in 2009-10, joined Knight at the provided valuable educational opportunities in Orlando,
2025 Winter Conference to announce the fund’s launch. offering 20 courses during the conference. Among the
ASHRAE honored the outstanding contributions of its most popular were:
members during its Honors and Awards Program. Addi- • Changing Environments and Loads for Data Center
tionally, ASHRAE Executive Vice President and Secretary (High Density, Liquid Cooling, Edge Computing);
Jeff Littleton provided updates on the Society’s progress • Guideline 36: Best of Class HVAC Control Sequences;
in advancing the built environment in his report. • V in HVAC – Health and Energy Improvements Using
“ASHRAE remains steadfast in its mission to serve the built Indoor Air Quality Procedures.
environment through research, education, and the develop- All registered attendees, both in-person and virtual, will
ment of industry-leading standards and guidelines,” said Little- have access to the virtual conference platform during the
ton. “As we navigate the evolving challenges and opportunities conference and 12 months post-conference.
within our field, our commitment to innovation, knowledge- The 2025 ASHRAE Annual Conference will take place
sharing and workforce development is stronger than ever.” June 21-25 in Phoenix, AZ. The 2026 Winter Conference
Through collaboration with its global network of chap- is set for January 31-February 4, 2026, and the AHR Expo,
ters and industry partners, the Society will continue to drive February 2-4, 2026, will be in Las Vegas, NV.

Rob McManamy

President Knight (seated, left) also appeared at AHR Expo on a panel for the packed session on The State of the Industry.

MARCH/APRIL 2025 HPAC ENGINEERING 11

2504HPAC_10-15_News.indd 11 3/24/2025 2:45:41 PM

 NEWS & NOTES

Rob McManamy

Rob McManamy
Armstrong Fluid Technology’s Steve Lane was excited to introduce five new
products being released this year, including the Design Envelope Energy
Transfer Station, expected to hit the market this fall.

Rob McManamy
AtmosZero cofounder Ashwin Salvi
stopped by to update HPAC on his
firm’s long-awaited debut this spring
of its modular electrified heat pump
boiler for client New Belgium Brewing
in Colorado. More than 51,000 attendees from 118 countries came to Orlando for AHR Expo.

Rob McManamy

Nearly 1,900 companies exhbited at the show, including more than 560 based outside the U.S., representing 37 countries.

12 HPAC ENGINEERING MARCH/APRIL 2025

2504HPAC_10-15_News.indd 12 3/24/2025 2:45:46 PM

 Rob McManamy
Multi-Wing's Kristian Brehm (left) and Claus Ohrt Nielsen discuss the firm's new 71-in-dia., energy-efficient axial fan.

Rob McManamy

Rob McManamy
From left, industry panel: moderator Bryan Orr, ASHRAE’s Knight, NCI’s
Dominick Guarino; HARDI’s Talbot Gee; and AHRI’s Stephen Yurek.
Rob McManamy

Nick Agopian of ReviveAire LLC describes

his firm's new Aireshield plasma
technology, which improves IAQ by
controlling a wide range of RNA and
DNA-based pathogens, including viruses,
Copeland’s Brent Cheshire details the Transcritical CO2 Semi-Hermetic bacteria, and airborne mold spores.
Compressor. Demand is currently very strong for CO2, he says. Compliant with ASHRAE 241 standards.

MARCH/APRIL 2025 HPAC ENGINEERING 13

2504HPAC_10-15_News.indd 13 3/24/2025 2:45:50 PM

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3/6/25 PM
9:05 AM
 COVER STORY

CFD Analysis of Pollutant

Dispersion in Kitchens
The impact of exhaust flow rate on the dispersion of NO2 in a multiunit
residential kitchen was evaluated, using new metrics developed by the author
to ensure proper IAQ levels for occupants.

Courtesy of AnSight LLC

Living room Cabinets Exhaust grilles
Microwave under microwave

Burner

Door undercut
Kitchen door (open)

Figure 1: Schematic diagram of CFD model of a kitchen and adjacent living room in a multi-family housing unit.

However, the actual usage of the Field measurements of exhaust flow

P
By KISHOR KHANKARI, PhD, ASHRAE Fellow
kitchen ventilation during cooking is rates have shown a wide range.
roper ventilation in the low. Occupants often do not use their For example, one study found rates
kitchens of multi-family range hood due to the lack of aware- ranging from 76 to 309 cfm (36 to
housing units is key to ness of the benefits. A large survey of 146 L/s), with actual flow rates 12–31
reducing exposure to pol- Canadian homes showed that only 30% percent lower than those specified in
lutants from cooking and of households reported regularly using product literature.⁴ Another study
gas stove burners. Mechanical kitchen their range hood.2 The inadequate found airflow rates varying from 92
ventilation with range hoods or over- use of ventilation during cooking to 275 cfm (43 to 130 L/s) for different
the-range microwaves (OTR) can highlights the need for educational over-the-range microwaves (OTR) and
potentially reduce occupant exposure programs on cooking exposures and range hoods.⁵ ASHRAE 62.2 requires
to cooking-related indoor pollutants. ventilation strategies. range hoods to move at least 100 cfm
Several factors related to the A field study of nine homes in Cali- (47 L/s) of airflow with a downstream
exhaust hoods and user behavior can fornia showed wide variations in pol- duct static pressure of 62.5 Pa6.
affect ventilation performance. The lutant concentrations both across and In addition to the exhaust flow
flow rate and physical characteristics within homes.3 Four of the nine homes rates, the airflow patterns in the
of the exhaust fan used during cooking had kitchen levels that exceeded the kitchen play a key role in determin-
were the most important determinants national ambient air quality standard ing the flow path of pollutants and its
of integrated exposures after cooking.1 threshold of 100 ppb NO2 over 1h4. distribution in the space. Therefore,

Based in Ann Arbor MI, the author is an ASHRAE Fellow and President of AnSight LLC, his own consulting engineering
practice specializing in computational fluid design (CFD) for building HVAC and data centers. Contact: [email protected].

16 HPAC ENGINEERING MARCH/APRIL 2025

2504HPAC_16-22_IAQ.indd 16 3/24/2025 2:48:57 PM

 Courtesy of AnSight LLC
Figure 2: Airflow patterns in the kitchen colored by air temperature showing the make-up air from the adjacent space
entering the kitchen through an open door between the kitchen and adjacent space.

understanding these airflow patterns The science employs numerical meth- This study utilizes CFD simulations
and flow paths is crucial for determin- ods to solve the underlying transport to examine the effectiveness of resi-
ing the level of pollutant exposure for equations. It thus predicts temporal and dential kitchen ventilation for various
people in the space. spatial variations of governing entities exhaust flow rates. It assesses the tran-
The dispersion of pollutants and such as velocity, pressure, temperature, sient dispersion of nitrogen dioxide
their flow paths can be influenced by a chemical concentrations, etc., without (NO2) and temperature distribution
variety of factors. They include exhaust requiring the assumption of well-mixed using an identical setup and release
flow rates, the design of the exhaust conditions. CFD simulations yield a rate of NO2.
hood, size and location of make-up air wealth of information related to time- The study also introduces two new
openings, the location and capacity of varying three-dimensional distributions measures, Spread Index (SI)TC and
the cooking burners, cooking practices, of these entities that are difficult to obtain Purge Time (PT)TC, to evaluate the
and user behavior when operating the through prototyping or physical testing. effectiveness of kitchen ventilation.
kitchen ventilation system. There are numerous examples of The main goal of this CFD study is to
Conducting physical tests on all CFD use for various applications that demonstrate relative spread of pollut-
these factors under controlled condi- aim to meet specific design goals. For ants in the kitchen due to the indoor
tions for various operating conditions example, designing smoke exhaust sys- airflow patterns.
can be time-consuming and labor- tems for fire scenarios, predicting the
intensive, if not impossible. Computa- transient time-temperature history of Description of the CFD Model
tional Fluid Dynamics (CFD) analysis chilled water in thermal storage tanks, A three-dimensional, transient, non-
offers a practical alternative for system- analyzing stratified ventilation systems isothermal CFD model of a kitchen and
atically evaluating all these parameters. such as traditional displacement venti- the adjacent living room in a multi-fam-
lation (TDV) and underfloor air distri- ily housing unit was developed for this
What is Computational bution (UFAD), as well as optimizing study. The total floor area of the model
Fluid Dynamics (CFD)? the cooling performance of data cen- space is 375 sq. ft. (35 m2) (15 x 25 feet,
CFD is a science that deals with simu- ters, cleanrooms, and laboratory ven- 4.6 x 7.6 m) with a 9-foot (2.7 m) ceiling
lation and analysis of fluid flow, heat tilation systems. Additionally, these height. The kitchen floor area is 143 sq.
transfer, mass transfer, and transport tools can be used for predicting plume ft. (13 m2) (11 x 13 ft, 3.3 x 4 m).
processes. CFD analyses are based on dispersion from exhaust stacks and As shown in Figure 1, the kitchen
laws of physics, such as the conserva- equipment yards of large data centers, has cabinets, a nook, a refrigerator, and
tion of mass, momentum, and energy. among other applications. an occupant standing in front of the

MARCH/APRIL 2025 HPAC ENGINEERING 17

2504HPAC_16-22_IAQ.indd 17 3/24/2025 2:48:58 PM

 COVER STORY

Courtesy of AnSight LLC

Time: 15.0 (min) Time: 15.0 (min) Time: 15.0 (min)

After 15 Minutes
75 cfm 150 cfm 300 cfm

Time: 30.0 (min) Time: 30.0 (min) Time: 30.0 (min)

After 30 Minutes
75 cfm 150 cfm 300 cfm

Figure 3: Distribution of temperature after 15 and 30 minutes for three exhaust flow rates showing thermal stratification
in the kitchen.

cooking range. The door between the to be ‘ON’ for the first 15 minutes. The the air. A computational mesh of 1.2
living room and the kitchen is assumed heat release rate from the burner is million hexahedral mesh was created
to be open. Additionally, a large nook assumed to be 17000 Btu/h (5 kW), by placing fine mesh near strategic
opening (9.75 x 4 feet, 3 x 1.2 m) is of which 80 percent is to be consumed locations.
placed between the kitchen and the by the cooking process. The rest is dis- Spread Index (SI) TC is a CFD-
living room. The kitchen is equipped sipated to the surrounding area. based metric developed to analyze and
with an over-the-range microwave Nitrogen Dioxide (NO2) was quantify the spread of pollutants in a
with an integrated exhaust fan. The considered as the main contaminant given space. It is computed as the ratio
exhaust air is vented outdoors through generated from the gas burner during of the volume occupied by the pollut-
two exhaust grilles placed under the the natural gas combustion process. ant level above a certain acceptable
microwave. The outside air is supplied A constant generation rate of NO2 concentration (TC) to the total volume
through a door undercut of the main was assumed to be 3.307E-06 lb/min of the space. The goal of the kitchen
door in the living room. (1.5E06 ng/min).⁶ The NO2 generation ventilation systems is to minimize the
This model setup represents typi- rate was assumed to be constant and contaminant concentrations below
cal operating conditions of a kitchen the same for all analyses. The ambient acceptable concentration throughout
during the winter season in a cold concentration of NO2 is assumed to the space and to limit the spread of
climate region with closed doors and be zero. The previous study showed pollutants. Spread Index (SI)TC is a
windows. In such situations, the leak- significantly lower levels of ambient metric of ventilation effectiveness that
ages through door undercut remain NO2 concentrations relative to those helps quantify the spread of pollutants
the major source for the makeup air. generated from the indoor emissions. in a three-dimensional space.
The transient (time varying) analy- A virtual sensor was placed in the In an ideal scenario, the concen-
sis was performed for a total duration model in front of the occupant’s face, tration levels should always remain
of 30 minutes with exhaust flow rates as well as in the two exhaust grilles, below the acceptable target, indicating
of 75, 150, and 300 cfm (35, 70, and to monitor time-varying concentra- a (SI)TC close to zero during and after
140 L/s). The flow rates correspond to tions at each location. With the help cooking. It’s important to note that the
the air change rates of 1.3, 2.6, and 5.2 of this data, the exposure (dose) for safe concentration levels depend on
1/h, respectively, for the entire space. the occupant was computed by the various risk factors, such as the type
Whereas for the kitchen space, these cumulative product of the NO2 con- and quantity of pollutants released
flow rates correspond to the air change centration (ppb) and the duration of during the cooking process. Higher
rates of 3.5, 7, and 14 1/h, respectively. the exposure (min). The standard k-e (SI)TC values can indicate the spread
The front burner located on the turbulence model was employed to and accumulation of pollutants above
right side of the cooktop is assumed compute the turbulent viscosity of acceptable concentration levels.

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 Courtesy of AnSight LLC
After 15 Minutes
75 cfm 150 cfm 300 cfm

After 30 Minutes
75 cfm 150 cfm 300 cfm

Figure 4: Distribution of NO2 concentration at the end of 15 and 30 minutes for three exhaust flow rates showing thermal
plume displacing the pollutants away from the breathing zone of the occupant.

The design of a ventilation system as well as the result- Temperature Distribution

ing airflow patterns and pollutant flow path play a crucial Figure 3 shows temperature distribution on a vertical plane
role in determining the (SI)TC levels in the space.⁷ For the passing through the burner and the person after 15 and 30
demonstration purposes, the target concentration of NO2
was assumed to be 100 ppb, which is an EPA-acceptable
concentration level for 1h.
Purge Time (PT)TC: It is the amount of time required
for a kitchen ventilation system to reduce the Spread Index
(SI)TC from its highest value to zero. Essentially (PT)TC
measures how well the ventilation system clears the space
and reduces the pollutant concentration to a safe level (target
concentration). (PT)TC can provide valuable guidance in
estimating the decay rate of pollutants after the burners
are turned ‘OFF.’
In this study, the impact of exhaust flow rates was ana-
lyzed by evaluating the (PT)100ppb values.

Results: Airflow Patterns

Figure 2 shows the airflow patterns in the kitchen for the
make-up air entering into the kitchen through an open door
between the kitchen and the adjacent space. The airflow
path lines are colored by the air temperature. As shown in
this figure, the make-up air is drawn towards the exhaust
grilles located under the microwave oven. The hot air that
is released around the burner rises upward towards the
ceiling in front of the person. It also shows the air from the
kitchen escapes into the adjacent living room.
As mentioned before, the make-up air enters the space
through the gap under the main door in the living room (not
shown in Figure 2). Three-dimensional airflow patterns in
the entire space are quite complex and have a large impact
on the spread and distribution of pollutants in the space.

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 COVER STORY

Courtesy of AnSight LLC

Time: 15.0 (min) Spread Index(100 PPB): 60.1% Time: 15.0 (min) Spread Index(100 PPB): 51.2% Time: 15.0 (min) Spread Index(100 PPB): 10.6%

After 15 Minutes
75 cfm 150 cfm 300 cfm

Time: 30.0 (min) Spread Index(100 PPB): 48.6% Time: 30.0 (min) Spread Index(100 PPB): 0.0% Time: 30.0 (min) Spread Index(100 PPB): 0.0%

After 30 Minutes
75 cfm 150 cfm 300 cfm

Figure 5: Spread Index (SI)100ppb at the end 15 and 30 minutes for three exhaust flow rates showing part of the kitchen
with NO2 concentration at or above 100 ppb.

minutes for the three exhaust airflow rates. These figures even after the burner is ‘OFF’. The hot air rises towards the
indicate thermal stratification in the space for all flow rates ceiling and then moves along the ceiling into the adjacent
during the first 15 minutes when the burner is ‘ON’ and space. In the cases of 75 and 150 cfm exhaust flow rates,
the temperature distribution in the kitchen space shows a
little difference.
However, in the case of 300 cfm exhaust flow rate, the
hot air is drawn into the exhaust grilles during the first 15
minutes and the purge of hot air is complete at the end of
30 minutes. Note a thermal plume rising from the person
is visible in the figure for the temperature distribution at
the end of 30 minutes for a 300 cfm exhaust.

Distribution of NO2 Concentration

Figure 4 illustrates the distribution of NO2 concentration
on a vertical plane passing through the burner and the
person at 15 and 30 minutes for all three exhaust airflow
rates. These figures show that there is a higher concentra-
tion of NO2 in the upper section of the kitchen, which can
be due to thermal stratification.
Similar to the temperature distribution, there is little
difference in the NO2 concentration in the space for the
75 and 150 cfm exhaust flow rates. However, during the
purge phase after the burner is turned ‘OFF’ (at 30 minutes),
the thermal plume plays a crucial role in maintaining low
concentration levels in front of the person. The displace-
ment of hot air can draw the surrounding clean air around
a person, as well.
For the same reasons, in the case of a 300 cfm exhaust
flow rate during the first 15 minutes, concentration levels
of NO2 in front of the person are at their lowest, and by
the end of the purge phase (30 minutes), the concentration
levels are further reduced.

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 Spread Index and Purge Time

Courtesy of AnSight LLC

70
Figure 5 shows the Spread Index (SI)100ppb plots for all 75 cfm
60
three exhaust flow rates at the end of 15 and 30 minutes. The 150 cfm
Spread Index plots show the areas with NO2 concentration 50 300 cfm

Spread Index100PPB
levels at or above 100 ppb. As depicted in the figure, at the
40
end of 15 minutes, increasing the exhaust flow rate from
75 to 300 cfm resulted in an 82 percent reduction in the 30
Spread Index from 60.1 to 10.8 percent. 20
On the other hand, increasing the flow rate from 75 to
150 cfm only led to a 14.8 percent reduction. At the end of 10

30 minutes, with a 75 cfm exhaust flow rate, the (SI)100ppb 0

0 2 4 6 8 10 12 14 16 18 20 22 24 26 28 30
reduced by only 19 percent. However, in the cases of 150 and
300 cfm, the (SI)100ppb fell to zero, indicating that the entire Time (minutes)
space had NO2 concentration levels lower than 100 ppb. Figure 6: Variation of (SI)100ppb with time for three differ-
The exhaust flow rate of 300 cfm keeps the contaminated ent exhaust flow rates indicates that 75 cfm is inadequate
air with NO2 confined to the kitchen and prevents it from to purge NO2 level below 100 ppb.
spreading into the adjacent living room. It’s interesting to
see a dark cloud forming over the person’s head, indicating The peak cumulative exposure value is 30 ppb-hr for
a pocket of low NO2 concentration (less than 100 ppb) due the case of 75 cfm exhaust flow rate for 30 minutes. This is
to the thermal plume. This can act as a “protective shield,” consistent with the previous studies indicating that even
displacing pollutants away and reducing exposure. moderately effective venting range hoods will dramatically
Thermal stratification causes pollutants to accumulate reduce the pollutant concentration levels.
and move along the ceiling, above the breathing zone of Also note that during the first 15 minutes, when the
occupants. It suggests that running a bathroom exhaust fan burner is ‘ON’, the cumulative exposure levels remain below
near the kitchen could help remove the contaminated air 10 ppb-hr. Further, the cumulative exposure increases
near the ceiling, although this was not explored in this study.
Figure 6 shows the variation of the Spread Index
(SI)100ppb with time for all three exhaust flow rates. As
shown in the case of 75 cfm exhaust flow rate, the (SI)100ppb
never reaches zero value, which indicates that the 75 cfm
exhaust flow rate is inadequate to purge NO2 level below
the acceptable value. Whereas in the cases of 150 and 300
cfm exhaust flow rates, the Purge Time (PT)100ppb is 26
and 16 minutes, respectively. This indicate the time required
to lower the NO2 concentration level below 100 ppb.
In all the cases, the (SI)100ppb reaches peak values at
15 minutes, at which time the burner is turned off and the
generation of NO2 stops. Thereafter, with increasing air
change rates, the rate of decay also increases. This figure
shows the impact of both the dilution due to increased
airflow rate and the rate of removal due to increased ACH.
Increasing the exhaust airflow rate from 75 to 150 cfm shows
will impact the purge rate and Purge Time (PT)100ppb.
It should be noted that for a 300 cfm exhaust flow rate
due to high air change rates, the (SI)100ppb reaches its
peak sooner and remains at a steady level for 7 minutes.

Analysis of Exposure (Dose)

Figure 7 shows variations of NO2 concentration in front of the
person’s face as detected by the virtual sensor and the associated
cumulative exposure with time. As shown in this figure the
NO2 concentration levels for all three flow rates (except for the
75 cfm) remain below 100 ppb, resulting in significantly lower
exposure level than the EPA-acceptable limit of 100 ppb-hr.

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 COVER STORY

Courtesy of AnSight LLC

120 35
75 cfm 75 cfm
100 150 cfm 30 150 cfm
300 cfm
Concentration (PPB)

300 cfm

Exposure (PPB-Hr)
25
80
Distance 1 foot Distance 1 foot
from stove 20 from stove
60
15
40
10
20 5

0 0
0 2 4 6 8 10 12 14 16 18 20 22 24 26 28 30 0 2 4 6 8 10 12 14 16 18 20 22 24 26 28 30
Time (minutes) Time (minutes)
Concentration Exposure

Figure 7: Variation of NO2 concentration and cumulative exposure with time for three exhaust flow rates indicating
lower exposure than acceptable values.

during the purge phase when the burner is ‘OFF’ (no NO2 the cumulative NO2 exposure levels remained significantly
generation). Such exposure can be realized only when the below the EPA-acceptable level of 100 ppb-hr for short-term
occupants stay near the stove even after the cooking is over, exposure. The analyses also indicate that thermal stratifica-
which can happen on rare occasions. tion causes pollutants to accumulate and migrate along the
Such low exposure can be attributed to the thermal ceiling above the breathing zone of occupants.
stratification in the space which displaces the contaminated Furthermore, the thermal plume from an occupant can
air above the breathing zone. form a “protective shield” to help reduce pollutant exposure.
This study suggests that CFD can be a valuable tool in ana-
Summary and Conclusions lyzing these parameters cost-effectively and optimizing the
In this CFD study, a three-dimensional, transient, non- performance of kitchen ventilation systems.
isothermal CFD model was developed to study the transient
temperature distribution and the dispersion of NO2 in the References
kitchen and the adjacent living room. The effectiveness of 1. Nina A. Dobbin, Sun L., Wallace L., Kulka R., You H.,
the kitchen ventilation was evaluated using newly developed Shin T., Aubin D., St-Jean M., Singer B.C. 2018 The benefit
metrics of Spread Index and Purge Time. of kitchen exhaust fan use after cooking - An experimental
The study analyzed the conditions with closed windows assessment. Building and Environment 135 (286–296).
and doors which is most common during the winter in 2. Sun L., Singer B.C. Cooking methods and kitchen venti-
cold climates. It was found that an exhaust flow rate of lation availability, usage, perceived performance and poten-
75 cfm is inadequate for effectively removing pollutants tial in Canadian homes. 2023 Journal of Expo Sci Environ
from a kitchen space. Epidemiol 33, 439–447.
Increasing the exhaust flow rate was shown to reduce 3. Brett C. Singer, Delp W., Lorenzetti D.M. Maddalena R.
the spread of high-concentration zones of pollutants into L 2016. Pollutant Concentrations and Emission Rates from
adjacent spaces, as indicated by the Spread Index analysis. Scripted Natural Gas Cooking Burner Use in Nine North-
Additionally, increasing the exhaust flow rate reduces the ern California Homes. Ernest Orlando Lawrence Berkeley
Purge Time and helps in the effective removal of residual National Laboratory Report.
pollutants after cooking when the burner is turned ‘OFF’. 4. US EPA (2016) Integrated Science Assessment for Oxides
The analyses also suggest that the thermal plume from of Nitrogen - Health Criteria (2016 Final Report), Washington
occupants and the buoyancy of hot gases can help reduce DC, U.S. Environmental Protection Agency.
the cumulative NO2 exposure. While occupant NO2 expo- 5. Zhao, Haoran, Delp W., Chan W., Walker I., Singer B.C.
sure levels remained significantly low during the first few 2020. Measured Performance of Over the Range Microwave
minutes of cooking when the burner is ‘ON’, the exposure Range Hoods. Lawrence Berkeley National Laboratory Report.
level starts increasing during the purge phase when the 6. ANSI/ASHRAE. 2022. Ventilation and Indoor Air
burner is turned ‘OFF’. Quality in Residential Buildings, Standard 62.2-2022.
However, an increase in the exhaust flow rate significantly 7. Khankari, Kishor. 2016. Analysis of Contaminant Flow
reduces cumulative NO2 exposure levels. It is important to Path and Laboratory Ventilation Effectiveness. ASHRAE Con-
note that for all exhaust flow rates analyzed in the study, ference Paper for ASHRAE Annual Conference. St. Louis, MO.

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 FEATURE

Optimizing the Chemistry Behind

Closed-Loop Heating Systems
As heating networks become more complex, water treatment programs need
to evolve beyond traditional inhibitor dosing and flushing cycles.

Michael Warady
often misdiagnosed as routine wear biofilm had begun forming in low-flow

A
By MICHAEL WARADY, CEO, EAI Water
and tear. sections of the system.
closed-loop heating sys- Years ago, at a client’s Central Utility So the problem wasn’t mechani-
tem should, in theory, be Plant, system operators had noticed cal—it was chemical.
one of the most stable subtle but persistent issues—pumps Despite following a standard inhibitor
components of a building working harder than usual, fluctuat- treatment program, the system’s water
or facility’s infrastruc- ing differential pressures, and gradual chemistry had never been fully opti-
ture. It operates in isolation, doesn’t declines in heat transfer efficiency. No mized. Over time, the facility did several
evaporate water like an open cooling major leaks had been detected, and on rounds of retrofits and additions to the
system, and shouldn’t be exposed to paper, the system had been running system – inadvertently leading to dead
outside contaminants. as expected. But when they pulled a legs, open valves leading to contamina-
Yet, despite these advantages, many water sample, the issue became clear. tion, and unchecked microbial activity
closed-loop networks quietly degrade Corrosion debris was circulating that slowly degraded internal piping and
over time, losing efficiency and devel- through the network, pH levels had heat exchangers. The system was doing
oping costly mechanical issues that are drifted outside the ideal range, and exactly what it had been designed to

Author Michael Warady is CEO of Economic Alternatives, Inc. (www.eaiwater.com), a total water solutions provider out of
Southern California. A graduate of Duke University with two masters degrees from Yale University, he is also president and
co-founder of Sylmar Group.

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 FEATURE

do—circulate water efficiently—but the piping, and underutilized loops cre- installing corrosion coupon racks, and
chemistry behind that water had been ate ideal environments for biofilm to addressing minor leaks that had been
slowly working against it. develop. Once biofilm forms, it acts as allowing oxygen ingress, they extended
This isn’t an isolated case. Across an insulator, reducing heat exchanger heat exchanger lifespan, reduced pump-
commercial and industrial heating net- efficiency while creating pockets of ing energy, and stabilized temperature
works, the misconception that closed localized under-deposit corrosion. fluctuations across the network.
loops are low maintenance has led A district heating system in a com- Despite the clear advantages of pro-
to widespread failures that could be mercial development recently encoun- active water chemistry management,
avoided with a more precise approach tered these exact issues. Over time, many facility teams continue operating
to water chemistry. the facility managers had begun notic- under the assumption that closed-loop
ing higher energy consumption, flow systems don’t require ongoing oversight.
Why Closed-Loop Systems imbalances, and declining pump effi- The result? Accelerated corrosion, bio-
Aren’t as Stable as They Seem ciency. When they finally investigated, film formation, and efficiency loss that
There’s a reason so many facility teams they found a combination of oxygen- could have been prevented with a more
assume closed-loop systems are set- induced corrosion, unbalanced pH, precise approach to water treatment.
and-forget infrastructure. Unlike open and microbial growth—factors that
cooling towers, they don’t evaporate had gone undetected for years because The Critical Role of
water, don’t require frequent blowdown standard water treatment protocols Licensed Water Treatment
cycles, and aren’t constantly exposed weren’t addressing the real problem. Professionals
to fresh contaminants. While chemical optimization is essen-
And oftentimes consulting engi- Why Optimizing Water tial for closed-loop system perfor-
neers describe these systems as such. Chemistry is the Key to mance, equally important is having the
But that assumption ignores the reality Longevity right expertise to manage these com-
of internal chemical degradation, slow A well-maintained closed-loop system plex chemical interactions. A licensed,
water loss, and minor oxygen ingress— isn’t just one that’s flushed periodically certified water treatment professional
all of which gradually destabilize sys- and dosed with inhibitors—it’s one (preferably someone with a CWT
tem conditions over time. where water chemistry is actively man- certification) brings more than just
One of the most common and aged to prevent long-term degradation. chemical knowledge – they provide the
underestimated issues is oxygen infil- The difference between a system that experience, technical understanding,
tration. Even in a well-sealed system, operates efficiently for decades and and systematic approach needed to
air can enter through leaks, valve one that develops premature failures maintain long-term system stability.
adjustments and turning, or pressure often comes down to how well pH, cor- A large-scale district heating pro-
fluctuations. Once inside, oxygen rosion control, and microbial activity vider discovered this firsthand when
reacts with system metals, produc- are balanced. they switched from an in-house main-
ing corrosion byproducts that circu- Facilities that take a proactive tenance approach to partnering with
late through the network, potentially approach to closed-loop water chemis- a CWT. For years, their closed-loop
clogging strainers, reducing pump try focus on stabilizing pH, controlling network had suffered from gradual
efficiency, and fouling heat exchangers. oxygen levels, using tailored corrosion circulation inefficiencies and unex-
Another issue that often goes unno- inhibitors that match the system’s met- plained corrosion issues. Despite fol-
ticed is pH instability. allurgy, and working with a licensed lowing standard chemical treatment
Many closed-loop systems experi- water treatment professional to help protocols, they couldn’t achieve stable
ence gradual shifts in alkalinity due support and provide best practices to system performance. The missing ele-
to chemical mismanagement, makeup facility managers. ment wasn’t better chemicals – it was
water additions, or internal reactions Rather than relying on scheduled the expertise of having experienced
with system materials. If pH drops too flushes and reactive chemical dosing, professionals diagnosing, and solving
low, acidic conditions accelerate metal these systems are monitored dynami- these issues in the past.
degradation. If pH drifts too high, scale cally, with adjustments made in response Licensed water treatment profes-
forms on heat transfer surfaces, reduc- to real-time conditions rather than pre- sionals bring several crucial advantages
ing efficiency and forcing the system determined maintenance intervals. to closed-loop system management.
to work harder to maintain setpoints. A commercial high-rise in Southern First, they understand the intricate
Microbiological fouling is also a California that brought EAI on board relationship between system metal-
factor, though it’s rarely addressed saw immediate improvements in sys- lurgy, operational conditions, and
in closed-loop treatment programs. tem performance. By optimizing pH, chemical treatment programs. This
Low-flow sections, stagnant backup fine-tuning corrosion inhibitor dosing, allows them to develop tailored

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 Michael Warady
solutions that account for specific sys- treatment from a periodic maintenance Instead of relying on manual testing,
tem characteristics rather than apply- task into a cornerstone of facility these systems provide dynamic feed-
ing a one-size-fits-all approach. operations. back, allowing facility managers to
Second, certified professionals have At an East Coast university campus, make real-time adjustments to main-
extensive experience identifying early the transition to professional water tain ideal conditions.
warning signs of system degradation. treatment management led to imme- In some high-performance heat-
They can spot subtle indicators that diate improvements in their heating ing networks, advanced filtration and
might go unnoticed by general main- network efficiency. The water treater side-stream separation technologies
tenance staff. This early detection capa- identified oxygen ingress points that are being integrated to remove cor-
bility often prevents small issues from had been overlooked, implemented rosion byproducts before they accu-
developing into costly system failures. a more precise chemical monitoring mulate and foul system components.
Third, professional water treat- program, and established clear proto- This shift from passive treatment to
ers are required to maintain current cols for system baselining and track- active water management is setting
knowledge of industry best practices, ing. Within months, they saw reduced the standard for the next generation
emerging technologies, and evolving energy consumption, improved heat of facility operations.
treatment methods. As regulations transfer efficiency, and more stable As regulations tighten and energy
change and new treatment options system operation. efficiency expectations grow, buildings
become available, they ensure that that fail to implement proactive closed-
facility system partners remain both Engineering Better Water loop water treatment strategies will face
compliant and efficient. Their ongoing Treatment for Future rising operational costs, shortened
education and certification require- Heating Systems equipment lifespans, and increasing
ments mean they’re continuously As heating networks become more compliance challenges. The cost of inac-
updating their expertise to match complex and energy efficiency remains tion is not just higher maintenance—it’s
industry advancements. a top priority, water treatment programs premature system failure and long-term
Perhaps most importantly, licensed will need to evolve beyond traditional infrastructure degradation.
professionals understand that effective inhibitor dosing and occasionalflush- The facilities that invest in quality
water treatment isn’t just about adding ing cycles. The next generation of chemical selection and continuous,
chemicals – it’s about developing com- closed-loop systems will be designed professional oversight will operate at
prehensive management strategies with with water chemistry management as higher efficiency for years to come and
their clients. With that in mind, they an integral component, rather than a protect the initial investment into this
help establish monitoring protocols, reactive maintenance function. infrastructure.
implement preventive maintenance Some commercial developments are Those that continue relying on
schedules, and create documenta- already adopting real-time chemical outdated assumptions about closed-
tion systems that ensure consistent monitoring, ensuring that corrosion loop stability will face the conse-
system performance over time. Their inhibitors, pH stabilizers, and oxygen quences of slow but inevitable system
systematic approach transforms water scavengers are continuously optimized. decline.

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 FEATURE

District Heating Must

Pivot To Energy Efficiency
Advanced electrode boilers can replace outdated fuel-burning equipment
and still meet ambitious decarbonization goals.

D
By DEL WILLIAMS, Technical writer

Acme Engineering
istrict heating – the gen-
eration of heat in a central
location and distribution
of it to local customers at
greater economies of scale
than individual heating systems – plays
an important role in helping the transi-
tion to clean energy.
The challenge, however, is that
district heating, used to provide hot
water and heat to buildings through
an insulated pipe system, must soon
pivot from burning fossil fuels.
“District heating networks offer
great potential for efficient, cost-
effective, and flexible, large-scale use
of low-carbon energy for heating,” Ideal for district heating, CEJW electrode boilers can match the heating output
says the International Energy Agency of fuel burning boilers while converting almost all its energy to heat.
(IEA), a Paris-based intergovern-
mental group that provides policy particularly when the electricity comes and waste heat sources, particularly
recommendations and data for the from renewable sources. within urban centers.
global energy sector. “However, the Municipalities and businesses rely- In this effort, an increasing num-
decarbonization potential of district ing on district heating are already piv- ber of district heating plants are turn-
heating is largely untapped, as 90% of oting from inefficient equipment that ing to high-voltage, electrode boilers
the heat supplied in district networks produces excess carbon emissions to to absorb excess power production,
is produced from fossil fuels.” economical electrode boilers that can quickly provide grid service, and cost-
IEA’s 31 member countries and 13 quickly rival the output of large gas or effectively balance out fluctuations. A
associate members represent 75% of oil-fired boilers in a smaller footprint. growing number of municipalities are
global energy demand. Aligning with Also, the advanced electrode boilers also installing new or retrofit high volt-
the IEA’s Net Zero Emissions by 2050 do not have a high minimum operating age electrode boilers that are compact,
Scenario requires significant effort level to make them immediately avail- economical, and produce no emissions.
to rapidly improve the energy effi- able. So they offer much faster start-up The upgrades often entail retrofit-
ciency of existing networks, switch to and shut down time while being safely ting or replacing boilers with cleaner,
renewable heat, integrate secondary and easily maintained. more efficient electric alternatives,
heat sources, and develop new high- along with the heat distribution net-
efficiency infrastructure. The Renewable Promise work. Electrode boilers use the con-
Fortunately, innovation in the form District heating systems offer substan- ductive and resistive properties of
of the latest, high-voltage, immersed tial potential for improving energy water to carry electric current and
electrode or jet-type electrode boilers efficiency, reducing greenhouse gas generate steam with greater respon-
makes district heating much greener, emissions, and integrating renewable siveness and efficiency.

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 “An AC current flows from an elec- “For district heating, the extraordi- In addition, the units further lower
trode of one phase to ground using narily efficient power-to-heat genera- operating costs with automatic controls
the water as a conductor,” says Rob- tion capability of electrode boilers, in that reduce the need for operating per-
ert Presser, VP of Acme Engineer- which almost 100% of the electrical sonnel. The most advanced types of
ing, a Montreal-based manufacturer energy is converted into heat with no these boilers, such as CEJS or CEJW,
of industrial and commercial boilers. stack or heat transfer losses, combined also offer greater safety than traditional
“Since chemicals in the water provide with an ability to use and balance inter- fuel-burning models.
conductivity, the current flow gener- mittent renewable energy, makes the “With the electrode boilers, there
ates heat directly in the water itself. technology crucial today,” says Presser. are no combustion hazards because
The more current (amps) that flows, there are no flames, fumes, fuel lines
the more heat (BTUs) is generated, Maximum Output, or storage tanks. There are no prob-
and the more steam produced for use Minimal Floor Space lems with heat buildup or electrode
in district heating.” As an example of energy and design burnout even if scaling should occur,
When supplying district heat- efficiency, the CEJS electrode steam and thermal shock is eliminated. Also,
ing, electrode boilers are much more boiler produces maximum amounts there is no low water danger since the
responsive and flexible than fossil fuel of steam in minimal floor space, with current cannot flow without water,”
burning units. “With electrode boilers, boiler capacity from 6MW to 68MW. Presser explains.
the energy input and adjustment are The electrode boiler operates at exist- Unlike fossil fuel burning boilers,
very precise and virtually immediate. ing distribution voltages, 4.16 to 25 KV, electric boilers require minimal main-
In contrast, increasing or decreasing and is up to 99.9% efficient at convert- tenance since there is no burner, no
the temperature in a gas-fired boiler is ing energy into heat. material burned, no soot created, no
a slower process because it takes time The boiler can produce steam in chimney, and no wearing mechani-
for the heat in the boiler to rise or capacities up to 270,000 pounds per cal parts. With fewer parts than more
dissipate before reaching the targeted hour, with pressure ratings from 75 complex fossil fuel burning units, elec-
output,” adds Presser. PSIG to 500 PSIG. All CEJS boilers trical boilers are also more compact
Advanced, high-voltage electrode are designed to ASME Code or EU and simpler to install than conven-
steam boilers like the CEJS also have Pressure Vessels Directive and are tional systems, he adds.
a 100% turndown ratio, the ratio certified, registered pressure vessels.
between a boiler’s maximum and mini- Electrical standards meet CSA, UL, Finally, the electric units are excep-
mum output. Most gas boilers have a or CE requirements. tionally quiet compared to fuel-fired
ratio of 10:1 or 5:1, which means the According to Presser, there are boilers. Unlike gas-powered burn-
units take a significant time to reach additional reasons for municipalities ers that throttle like turbine engines
full capacity. Both the CEJW and CEJS and businesses to use high voltage, jet almost continually, electric boilers keep
immersed electrode hot water and type electrode boilers for district heat- operational noise levels down.
steam boilers have a minimum output ing. “Electrode boilers can match the With all the advantages of high
level of 7-8% of rated capacity, still far heating output of fuel burning boilers output, jet-type electrode boilers, in
better than a modern gas-fired boiler. while converting almost all the energy addition to their value in balancing
“With a 100% turndown ratio, you to heat. Electrode boilers also are much out the use of intermittent renewable
can leave the boiler in standby at low smaller than fossil fuel burning boilers energy in the power grid, it is evident
pressure and bring it to full capacity in so are easier to use in smaller struc- why a growing number of communities
about 90 seconds as needed, which no tures,” he says. and businesses are selecting them for
other boiler type can achieve today,” For residential or commercial prop- district heating.
says Presser. “Communities and busi- erty owners, electrode boilers also As the effects of climate change
nesses utilizing district heating also lower costs for installation, operation, become more severe, the urgency of
appreciate the eco-friendly nature of and maintenance. Gas-fired boilers switching to clean energy and decar-
electrode boilers. Without combustion, require fuel lines, storage and handling bonizing the energy sector will only
these boilers are clean and emission- equipment, economizers, and emis- increase across the globe. In this effort,
free. The design also eliminates many sion control equipment. Advanced jet district heating paired with electrode
environmental issues associated with type electrode boilers have a minimal boilers will be a vital part of the solu-
fuel burning such as fumes, fly ash, and number of components and electrical tion, as member countries strive to
large obtrusive exhaust stacks,” he adds. controls, with fewer parts. Under nor- meet IEA decarbonization goals.
The energy efficiency of electrode mal operation, the absence of excessive For more, email rpresser@acmeprod.
boiler technology, however, is one of temperatures and electrode burnout com; or visit: https://www.acmeprod.
its most remarkable characteristics. also assures long operating life. com/jet-type-steam-boiler.

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 BOILER SYSTEMS ENGINEERING

Breaking Barriers, Listening to Customers,

New ABMA Chair Promotes Engagement, Service
The first-ever woman to lead the American Boiler Manufacturers Association is also its
first international member in that role. She’s excited for the future of this industry.

T
his spring, HPAC On The ABMA

Air spoke to Nancy Simo-

neau, president of Groupe
Simoneau, a 40-year-old
Canadian boiler manu-
facturer based in Quebec, and the new
Board Chair of the American Boiler
Manufacturers Association (ABMA).
In January, Ms. Simoneau became the
first woman ever to attain that title
with the 137-year-old trade group,
as well as the first non-U.S.-based
member to fill that role.
Here, she discusses the unique per-
spective and infectious energy, focused
on both internal and external custom-
ers, that will help to define the theme Simoneau, left, and VP Shaunica Jayson are leading ABMA’s outreach to women.
of her two-year term.
to manufacture boilers at that time. the company and if you put it in the
HPAC: Nancy, thanks so much for And I fell in love with this trade and drain, I will still love you, my dear.”
joining us on HPAC On The Air. First, the people within the trade. I’ve been So that was a big source of stress for
please tell our listeners a bit about in this market for almost 38 years now. me because I knew I was bearing his
Groupe Simoneau and your journey assets every morning on my shoulders
into this industry. HPAC: I noticed there’s a very nice when I was coming in to work. That’s
quote from your father on the com- the reason why I wanted to buy the
Nancy Simoneau: Well, I’m an pany website. He said, “I’m sure you’ll company from him. I said, well, at least
accountant by trade. So I finished my do a better job than me. If you succeed, if I buy the company, he’s going to be
accounting degree in 1992. At that time, all the better. If you don’t, I will always secured. His money’s going to be out
it was a very difficult time for the econ- be your father, and I will always love of reach. And that’s how I bought it
omy and I couldn’t find a job. So my you.” Can you talk about that a bit? back from him and started my own
dad, René Simoneau, had started in journey as an entrepreneur.
1984, a service company for boilers. He Simoneau: Yes, that’s what he said
was a boiler maker and high-pressure to me when he left the company. He HPAC: As both the first woman and
welder, and I was working a bit for him was quite young, 53, when he left, the first international member to
while I was a student. But after that, I and that was soon after the second lead such an established associa-
said, well, if you want me to join you, tower fell in New York City on Sept. tion, what does your appointment
then I will start the manufacturing arm 11. He just got overwhelmed, I guess, say about ABMA now?
of this company if you allow me to do by all the things that were happening.
so. He said, yes, because I was one of And he said, “Well, Nancy, I’m out of Simoneau: Well, first of all, it’s an
the first persons in the family to get here.” I think, first of all, we can’t be honor to be appointed as the chair of
a university degree. So he was prob- two leaders like we were in the same the ABMA. I remember when I started
ably thinking that I knew everything place. And he said, “If I want to enjoy in this trade, ABMA was the authority
and I was great at everything. So he my life, I need to take time now.” He in this business. So I had a very high
put his confidence in me and I started said, “You do whatever you can with appreciation of the association because

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 we were always referring to it to make sure that we were doing
Growing ABMA Adds Three
ABMA

our stuff properly and according to their recommendations

for safety and efficiency, etc. So I think my appointment also Seats to Board of Directors
is showing the evolution of this association and the open-
ness of all the members to embrace where we’re going and The American Boiler Manufacturers Association
(ABMA) is expanding its Board of Directors to address
how we all have to play together to serve an industry that is
the group’s significant membership growth and
mission critical for our customers.
continuing evolution.
Over the last five years, ABMA has increased
HPAC: On an ABMA podcast a year ago, heralding the launch
membership by more than 30% and created a new
of the new Women In the Boiler Industry group, aka WIBI, you
category for companies representing manufacturer
said that “Women bring something different to this indus- members. Overall, ABMA now has more than 170
try.” Could you please elaborate a bit more on that here? companies in the boiler sector.
With that in mind, ABMA will now add up to
Simoneau: It’s been fantastic the level of interest that we three additional board seats, with one designated
are seeing with WIBI. I think women, what most of the time for a Manufacturer Representative member. These
bring to the table is a little bit more empathy and sensitivity. changes will enable ABMA to expand the diversity of
And our industry is particularly driven by engineers because products and services across its leadership.
it’s quite regulated. With a boiler, you burn gas, you have ABMA Board Chair Nancy Simoneau stated, “Our
pressure. So it needs to be well-designed, well-built and the leadership will be stronger with the new board seats
safety of the people surrounding the equipment is always the along with additional diversity and perspectives in
first thing we think about. But by having a lot of engineers in the ABMA Boardroom.”
our industry, sometimes we lose a bit of the sensitivity and
empathy we need to capture all 360 degrees of the situation so
that we can care for our customers. So I think we bring that. Mexico. Our industry is quite integrated, so it will impact
We also have a lot of precision. I mean, we stick to our all of us if we have tariffs because we have many Americans
stuff. And I’m not saying that men don’t have that. I don’t sending equipment into Canada and the opposite, too.
want to look like it’s us versus them. It’s us together. And Boilers, burners and other equipment. So, for sure, it will
much of the time, we bring a little bit more of a customer- put pressure on our industry if we have that. What I dread,
centric focus, making sure what we care for is bigger than us. though, is I don’t want our relationships to be impacted.
We are dear friends. We’re collaborators and we’ve been
HPAC: Overall, what are you most excited about for your together for many years. We don’t have power and control
term as ABMA Chair? over the policy and we don’t want to become politicians.
And as much as I’m a Canadian, we have to keep our heads
Simoneau: I want to put a little touch of my vision into the cold and work with our logic and our business sense. So I
ABMA. So my mantra for my two years is “every member think resilience is key, and agility. Sometimes maybe I trust
matters; ears open; heart engaged; and ready to serve.” So too much life, but I have a tendency to see my glass of water
I want everybody in our association to make sure they get full and there’s going to be opportunities. There’s going to be
what they want out of it. If all of us, including the staff at maybe collaboration, getting more involved between some
ABMA, live through those values for the next two years, manufacturing companies. We don’t know how it’s going
then I think it’s going to make a difference on how our to unfold, but I know it’s going to be a tough period. In the
members feel. They will feel welcomed, valued, understood end, I really think it’s going to be for the best for everybody.
and listened to. No matter who you are, you are a member So I put my confidence in life. My mom was saying to me
of ABMA. And that’s important for me. when I was young: “Trust life, trust life, Nancy.”
It’s going to unfold properly, but we have to make sure
HPAC: Given this unusual political moment in U.S.-Canada that we keep our employees secure. I mean, there’s a lot of
relations, do you anticipate the issue of tariffs playing uncertainties and insecurities, I think, on both sides of the
any role at all for you or your firm this year? What about border right now. So we have to calm down the play and
sustainability issues or energy-efficiency goals? make sure that we keep our head cold and our logic first
before we put our heart on the table.
Simoneau: It’s quite stressful in a way because I think
we at ABMA have this vision of including Canada. We To listen to all previous ‘HPAC On The Air’ podcasts, visit
have many people from Europe, as well as members from our Members Only page at www.hpac.com.

MARCH/APRIL 2025 HPAC ENGINEERING 29

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 NEW PRODUCTS

Aircore Heavy Duty Motor

Infinitum introduces the Aircore Heavy Duty motor has an integrated
variable-frequency drive that facilitates CDU, vertical in-line pump, HVAC
and other heavy-duty applications, reducing overall energy usage. Its
reduced size and weight unlock infinite design potential, making any
machine lighter, quieter and more efficient. Configurable, with analog and
digital inputs for pressure sensors, flow switches, etc. Meets the highest
efficiency standards at a wide range of load conditions.
Infinitum Electric

Webstone Hydro-Core Press Manifold

The Webstone Hydro-Core Press Manifold from NIBCO is a redesign of
the Hydro-Core double ball drain. It now features fully integrated press
end connections for fewer potential leak paths and less brass. It retains
the original manifold’s core functionality in a compact new body.
The forged brass assembly includes closely spaced tees for hydraulic
separation and drain valves for isolation and future service. Designed
for use with water, oil or glycol mix in residential or light commercial
heating systems, the manifold is available in sizes 1 in. and 1 1/4 in.,
including reducing branch options.
NIBCO

ClearDrain PVC
ClearDrain PVC from RectorSeal effectively eliminates major
contributors to clogged HVACR condensate drains. Its polymer
surface is electrostatically repulsive, offers low surface energy
and protects against bacteria, viruses, molds, biofilm and other
microorganisms with its hydrophobic properties.
RectorSeal

Series 250 Butterfly Valve

The Series 250 butterfly valve from Victaulic is designed for domestic water, technical
cooling and HVAC systems. Made to last at least twice as long as competitive valves, it
delivers UL-certified reliability, improved flow characteristics, new disinfectant-resistant
gasket formulations and multi-material compatibility. Engineers and contractors will find
the Series 250 reduces installation complexity and streamlines system maintenance, says
the company.
Victaulic

30 HPAC ENGINEERING MARCH/APRIL 2025

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 EWX Series Electric Boiler
The EWX Series electric boiler from Sussman Electric Boilers sets a new standard for
sustainable heating in commercial and industrial HVAC applications by delivering zero
emissions and significantly reducing carbon footprints. The ultra-compact design enables
all models to fit seamlessly through a standard 36-in.-wide doorway. With 32 different
models ranging from 270 kW to 1200 kW, the unit is perfect for retrofitting aging systems
or transitioning to fully electric hydronic designs, meeting the growing global demand for
decarbonized solutions.
Sussman Electric Boilers/DHT

Constant-Speed Vertical-In-Line Fire Pumps

Constant-speed vertical-in-line fire pumps from Armstrong Fluid Technology feature a
maximum 500 gpm flow for both 60hz and 50hz markets and new high-pressure ratings
of up to 160 psi. They eliminate the need for offset piping and motor realignment. Other
features include smaller motors than comparable pumps at the same duty point and
smaller environmental footprints than standard diesel pumps.
Armstrong Fluid Technology

CMK-224 Floor-Standing Commercial Rack System

The CMK-224 floor-standing commercial rack system from Noritz provides
even more powerful hot water delivery by racking four NCC199CDV tankless
units installed back to back, while also delivering greater space savings for
businesses and commercial facilities.
Noritz America

RP 251 Compact Press Tool

RIDGID’s RP 251 Press Tool features an endless 360-degree head swivel
to reach tight spaces from practically every angle, an ergonomic design
with a forward-positioned trigger, and an in-line SlimGrip handle
for easy, overhead one-handed use. It also comes equipped with a
brushless motor capable of more than 60,000 press cycles, requiring
no scheduled maintenance for maximized jobsite performance. An
improved 360-degree LED light ring provides bright visibility in dark
conditions for enhanced execution. Compatible with all RIDGID
compact series jaws, rings and actuators. It can press up to 1 1/4 in. on copper and stainless steel, up to 1 1/2 in. on PEX
tubing, up to 1 in. on carbon steel, and up to 1 3/8 in. on copper tubing in refrigeration.
RIDGID

MARCH/APRIL 2025 HPAC ENGINEERING 31

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 NEW PRODUCTS

e-80X/e-80SCX Smart Pumps

Powered by Xylem’s hydrovar X Smart Motor, Bell & Gossett’s Series e-80X
(close-coupled) and e-80SCX (split-coupled) Smart Pumps offer customizable
pumping solutions. They reduce electricity consumption, improve overall system
performance and lower life cycle costs. Designed for horizontal and vertical
in-line mounting, they are ideal for hydronic heating and cooling systems, light
industrial processes and general service. Built-in application software makes the
drive one of the easiest to commission, program and operate, enabling virtually
any configuration of pumps. Advanced system controls (up to eight pumps) are
customizable for a wide range of applications.
Bell & Gossett

Permanent Magnet Motor End Suction Pumps

End suction pumps from Armstrong Fluid Technology now include three larger sizes with
permanent magnet motors up to 50hp that eliminate the need for an inertia base (4200h
pictured). Featuring Design Envelope technology with integrated intelligent controls,
they can save up to 65% in energy over comparable traditional constant-speed or
variable-frequency-operated pump installations. Also, because of the factory-aligned
rigid coupling, there is no need for coupling realignment during the
installation process.
Armstrong Fluid Technology

air365 Max
Hitachi unveils the air365 Max all-inclusive HVAC system, a cost-efficient and
adaptable VRF technology that offers energy efficiency and seamless comfort for users.
SmoothDrive 2.0 precisely controls the compressor speed and measures the gap in room
vs. set temperature. This reduces wear and tear on the compressor by reducing start/
stop events, improves temperature stability and reduces energy consumption at part
load. Includes proprietary sigma-shaped heat exchanger that features a new three-way
path structure to expand the heat-transfer area. The gas injection scroll compressor is
driven by a DC inverter motor and can operate in tiny increments of 0.1Hz.
Hitachi

Back Draft Fume Hoods

HEMCO’s Back Draft Fume Hoods are designed to remove hazardous fumes and
odors, using back draft technology. The vented hoods are perfect for laboratories
with limited space or when multiple hoods are needed. A full selection of
accessories and components includes work surfaces, base cabinets, plumbing and
electrical services. Acrylic viewing shroud is optional. They are shipped completely
assembled and equipped, ready for operation.
HEMCO Corp.

32 HPAC ENGINEERING MARCH/APRIL 2025

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 MARKETPLACE

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 CLARK’S REMARKS BY LARRY CLARK, SUSTAINABLE PERFORMANCE SOLUTIONS LLC

Recalling Earth Day’s Historically Bipartisan Roots

Today’s polarized politics betray the popular consensus that existed in 1970.

O
n January 28, 1969, at the same graduate student Denis Hayes, the former stu-
time that I was in school receiv- dent body president at Stanford University.
ing birthday wishes from friends, Nelson asked Hayes to organize and coordi-
Union Oil’s Platform A started nate the first Earth Day. He selected April 22,
spilling oil off the coast of Santa Barbara, CA. 1970, for the event. It was the Tuesday between
It wasn’t until years later, when I moved to Spring Break and final exams, so most students
Pierpont Beach in Ventura, that I fully realized would be on their campuses that day, Hayes
the true significance of that accident. reasoned. The event was celebrated on some
That was the beginning of what, at the 2,000 college campuses and in hundreds of
time, would become the largest oil spill in communities across the country, and April 22
Larry Clark U.S. history. Today, it still ranks third, behind has been recognized as Earth Day ever since.
A regular contributor
to HPAC Engineering
the Exxon Valdez and Deepwater Horizon During the next 10 years, leading up to
and a member of its disasters. Many attribute the Santa Barbara Earth Day 1980, a vast array of significant
editorial advisory spill as being the direct catalyst for the first environmental legislation was passed by
board since 2012, the Earth Day in 1970. Congress, including the Endangered Spe-
author is a principal Although there is no doubt that it helped to cies Act, the Marine Mammal Protection Act,
at Sustainable
inspired that first Earth Day celebration, many the Superfund Act, the Toxics Substances
Performance
Solutions LLC, a
others (including me), believe that the original Control Act, the Resource Conservation and
south Florida-based inspiration for Earth Day came from the 1962 Recovery Act, the Clean Air Act, and the
engineering firm publication of Rachel Carlson’s Silent Spring. Clean Water Act. By that Earth Day, in fact,
focusing on energy Carson’s best-selling book exposed the haz- DDT and leaded gasoline were no longer in
and sustainability. ards of pesticides, particularly DDT, and for the use in the U.S.
Email him at larry@
first time, it aroused widespread environmental By 1990, Earth Day was a global event, with
sustainflorida.com.
consciousness among the general public. In more than 140 countries participating. Twenty
addition to helping inspire the creation of Earth years later, in 2010, on the 40th anniversary
Day, it ultimately led to the creation of the U.S. of Earth Day, nearly one billion people joined
Environmental Protection Agency (signed into more than 200 government leaders in more
law by Republican President Richard Nixon) than 39 countries to advocate for sustainable
and the banning of DDT, as well as the regula- green economies. In 2016, the UN chose Earth
tion of other pesticides. Day for the signing of the Paris Agreement.
For those readers not familiar with the his- Of course, on Earth Day 2020, the 50th
tory of Earth Day, here’s a brief synopsis: Anniversary, the pandemic forced many of
In 1969, the Vietnam War had been raging the planned activities online. Even so, It is esti-
for at least six years, and millions of Americans mated that 1 billion people worldwide partici-
were protesting continued U.S. involvement. pated in some type of Earth Day activity, and
Anti-war demonstrations, especially on col- more than 100 million streamed a three-day
lege campuses, represented the largest public ‘Earth Day Live’ event.
protests in U.S. history. An early opponent of In April 2024, the EPA finalized rules that
the war, former Wisconsin governor and then dramatically reduce the number of people
U.S. senator, Democrat Gaylord Nelson, was facing elevated cancer risks because of their
best known for his environmental advocacy. exposure to air pollution. It also finalized the
Shrewdly taking a page from the student first drinking water standard for PFAS “forever
activism of the time, Sen. Nelson proposed an chemicals” because of their link to increased
environmental teach-in on college campuses risks of cancer and other medical disorders.
and was able to partner with California Repub- Today, even as EPA steps back, my hope is
lican Rep. Pete McCloskey, Jr. as his co-chair. that Earth Day can still show all of us what is
A key activist they recruited of was Harvard possible when we work together.

34 HPAC ENGINEERING MARCH/APRIL 2025

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