Thermodynamics, as with most concepts in science and physics, is most accurately described using mathematical equations. However, simple explanations, although not perfectly accurate, are sufficient to convey the information needed to understand everyday experiences. This article is an attempt to simplify these concepts.

Transpired solar air collector technology, developed at the U.S. Department of Energy’s (DOE’s) National Renewable Energy Laboratory (NREL) back in the 1990s, recently found its way back home and is now an integral part of the comfort heating system of the new Research Support Facility (RSF).

People sometimes ask if there are wear differences due to the raw edge design of the notched V-belt vs. the fabric all over design of the classical wrapped V-belt. The fact is many factors can contribute to sheave wear. However, notched V-belts and wrapped V-belts have virtually identical sheave wear characteristics.

It is possible to ensure high-quality brazing connections in a safe and environmentally friendly way? Yes it is, with mixed oxyhydrogen gas generators. This technology works only with water and electricity. Gas is generated through a particular electrolytic cell, able to get H₂-O₂ from the water.

Ongoing economic and indoor environmental concerns require HVAC innovation. New liquid desiccant air conditioning systems offer substantial energy savings and greatly improved humidity control in applications where latent loads (moisture) are very high relative to sensible loads.

Moisture in building envelopes can have serious consequences. For example, moisture in insulation reduces its insulating capability, causing heating and/or cooling losses and wasting energy. Moisture can also cause structural deterioration and foster mold growth. Thermal imaging is well suited to identifying wet spots.

Smart HVAC equipment that recognizes when it is failing or has failed, or when conditions have drifted outside its optimum range, could save substantial amounts of energy if the equipment sent useful information to the building owner or contractor. This is referred to as automated fault detection and diagnostics (FDD).

While synchronous drives do have many industrial applications, they are generally not accepted as the best option for HVAC equipment. Virtually no OEM uses or recommends synchronous drives due to cost, noise and vibration, structural design concerns, and reliable availability of replacement components.

Energy recovery ventilation (ERV) systems exchange heat (often both sensible heat and water vapor) between the outgoing exhaust air and the ventilation air being brought in. Under appropriate conditions, this allows reducing the capacity of the HVAC system and saves energy.

Conventional wisdom would have you concentrate thermal imaging on windows and doors. However, windows and doors contribute very little to total air leakage in most dwellings. In fact, the most serious leaks occur at the top and bottom of the conditioned building envelope - in attics and basements.