Document Type
Paper
Abstract
Calvin College dorms have a chronic issue with wasting energy. The dorms have little insulation, high infiltration rates, and are heated by low efficiency boilers. These existing characteristics combine for a larger required heating load and increased energy usage. The excess heat, due to poor temperature control, is often vented out through the windows whenever students deem necessary. This project will attempt to reduce wasted energy and efficiently distribute heat as needed.
The Thermal Systems Design class of 2010 was challenged with retrofitting the Bolt-Heyns-Timmer (BHT) dorm to decrease energy consumption and improve efficiency. The class was presented with the following problem statement: “The goal for the [BHT] heating system renovation is a 30% reduction in energy use compared to the existing system.” When addressing this problem of energy production and supply, the class set a control volume solely around BHT. In order to accomplish this task, the class was separated into six groups focusing on energy modeling, infrastructure, heating, cooling, ventilation, and financial analysis. An executive team was also formed with a leader from each group. The executive team was tasked with determining the overall direction of the project and facilitating communication for the whole class.
Publication Date
12-17-2010
Recommended Citation
2010 Fall ENGR333, "2010 Fall ENGR333 Project Final Report" (2010). ENGR 333. 55.
https://digitalcommons.calvin.edu/engr_333/55