Department of Energy, Air Sterilization, Washington, DC
“SERVICES
Design provides appropriate 254 Nm wavelength UV-C light intensity to disinfect the airstream which exceeds 1,200 microwatts/cm^2 (7,800 microwatts/inch^2) and is intended for 99% COVID-19 virus “kill”.
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The Department of Energy has one of the richest and most diverse histories in the Federal Government. The Department traces its lineage to the Manhattan Project effort to develop the atomic bomb during World War II, and to the various energy-related programs that previously had been dispersed throughout various federal agencies. The Department ensures America’s security and prosperity by addressing its energy, environmental and nuclear challenges through transformative science and technology solutions.
The Air Sterilization services include Mechanical, Electrical and Fire Protection design engineering towards installation of Ultraviolet Germicidal Irradiation (UVGI) sterilization of the supply air within the existing Air Handling Units (AHU) at the James V. Forrestal Campus (FORS) buildings and Germantown Campus (GTN) buildings by utilizing 254 Nm wavelength UV-C lights.
UVGI air sterilization grid systems are installed inside the existing AHUs downstream of the cooling coils (where space permits) or inside the supply ductwork immediately downstream of the AHU’s when there’s no space inside the AHU. The scope includes a review of the existing HVAC system operations and changes required to improve air quality in addition to analysis and selection of technology with the quickest installation and highest value (sterilization efficacy).
The design includes a new sequence of operations and set points to improve indoor air quality. The technology, controls, and installation specifications are such that a follow-up project will be able to easily utilize the same equipment, controls, etc. on the return-air system. The design provides appropriate 254 Nm wavelength UV-C light intensity to disinfect the airstream which exceeds 1,200 microwatts/cm^2 (7,800 microwatts/inch^2) and is intended for 99% COVID-19 virus “kill”.
The design also incorporates safety provisions for maintenance and service personnel protection once UVGI systems are in operation. Provisions include:
Door electrical safety contacts at each AHU and ductwork access door to the UVGI system components,
Double pane thermal glass viewports with UV-resistant glass coating built into each access door to verify UVGI system components operation/failure prior to door opening,
Control element at each installed UVGI system connected to the BAS. This control element generates an alarm at the BAS upon any/all UVGI system electric/electronic component(s) failure and instantly alerts service and maintenance staff to take action on failed components replacement.
The design also includes a UVGI system commissioning specification section. This section outlines requirements for each installed UVGI system performance verification, including Functional Performance Test (FPT) procedures scripts.
