ACR Journal

AIR CONDITIONING 18 desired results, Aermec embarked on the construction of substantial steel framework at the factory, which would enable the AHUs to be positioned 1.8 metres above the ground and sound measurements were then taken from underneath the units in situ. The AHUs were arranged within custom- designed steel framework. Acoustic housings were unnecessary as the AHUs were designed appropriately to meet the noise specifications. Each unit has 50mm thick panels with mineral wool insulation 100kg/m³ and 1.2mm thickness galvanised steel internally and externally. The fan section has 150mm panels of extra insulation to reduce the radiated noise of the fan. Because of the AELTC’s location within a residential neighbourhood, sound levels were crucial. Extensive testing was carried out through the night to ensure that no background noise would be emitted. Pressure control There were a number of logistical constraints. As well as meeting sound criteria, sight lines for neighbours in the area were to be maintained where possible, so careful consideration was given to height of any rooftop plant and aesthetics. Six of the chillers were located in the basement to support year-round cooling. The other 20 chillers were designed to fit within physical constraints of the No1 Court roof. To address the acoustic requirements, they were enclosed in five special acoustic pods. Each pod houses four chillers in a 2x2 double-deck arrangement on the north side of the court and directly above spectators. The pods were designed to accommodate air intake on one side only. EC direct drive fans were used to ease commissioning and set design air volumes without the need for pulley and belt changes. Inverter pumps were also used with varying pressure control to ensure a constant flow rate as the quantity of chillers in operation increases and decreases. The AHUs were located withing a complex network of steel and ductwork, with four situated on the east side of the court, four on the west side and four on the south June | July 2020 The redeveloped No.1 Court at Wimbledon side. The units were installed on the roof in sections and Aermec carried out the final connections once all sections were in place. Elite athletes The roof takes between eight and 10 minutes to close and the AHUs start up as soon as the roof is closed. Depending on the conditions, the air conditioning can take minutes to acclimatise the climate within the bowl and allow matches to restart. Aermec AHUs in No.1 Court Wimbledon Fact Work started on No.1 Court’s retractable roof in 2016 and was completed in time for The Championships in 2019. The first competitive match to be played with the roof closed was a Men’s Doubles first round match featuring Andy Murray. Volume 6 No.4

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