Articles by Kevin Ricart, P.E.

Replacing fossil fuel boilers with electric heat pumps is a significant technical challenge, particularly in cold climates.

The topic of motors and motor control techniques is wide and varied. Part one of this two-part article will cover the principles of alternating-current (AC) motor operation and control.  

Approximately six years ago, we visited the manufacturing plant of one of the largest boiler manufacturers in the country. The visit was related to a specific project that required high-efficiency condensing boilers for heating and steam boilers for humidification.

Chiller plant control optimization has achieved heightened popularity over time as computerized controls enable increasingly sophisticated algorithms to maximize plant efficiency.

In the October 2017 issue, three dehumidification methods for health care were introduced (“Dehumidification For Health Care”): low temperature DX, low temperature glycol, and desiccant dehumidification.

Owners, engineers, and contractors are increasingly understanding the advantages of designing new hydronic heating plants using high-efficiency condensing boilers.

Carilion Clinic is a not-for-profit health care organization based in Roanoke, VA. In line with their mission to improve the health of the communities they serve, and with the intent of becoming a teaching facility, Carilion Clinic set upon upgrading their operating rooms and related existing HVAC systems at the Carilion New River Valley Medical Center in Christiansburg, VA.