Entry Details

Organization:South Energy DWC
Login ID:muh.islam291@gmail.com
Category applied for:HVAC ENGINEER OF THE YEAR (CLIENT SIDE)
Submission date:28-Oct-2024
Submission Entry:
1.) Given that buildings consume 40% of global energy, within which at least 40% is consumed by HVAC systems, how has the goal of 1.5 C additionally impacted your HVAC system O&M strategies? What specific changes have you incorporated in your O&M in order to support the 1.5 goal? (232)

Answer: The goal of limiting global temperature rise to 1.5°C has significantly influenced the approach to HVAC system operation and maintenance (O&M). During daily operations, continuously monitor the performance data of individual equipment’s, deciding when servicing is needed and switching to more efficient units as necessary. Maintained high standards of maintenance for all equipment, including thorough cleaning, precise calibration, timely replacement of parts, and according to standards.
I developed a KPI specifically to improve equipment reliability and reduce maintenance costs, which was approved by my manager and incorporated into our team’s performance metrics. I designed a tracking sheet to measure KPI outcomes, enabling consistent monitoring and benchmarking. This KPI emphasizes maintenance data analysis, identifying deviations in operational parameters, generating detailed reports, and supporting data-driven decisions on maintenance strategies and equipment replacement.

2.) Have you implemented any energy management programme in your building in the past one year? What % reduction in energy consumption and carbon emission have you achieved? (233)

Answer: My company has implemented advanced energy management practices since long time, leveraging automated controls and IoT-driven systems to optimize plant efficiency.
Over the past year, I was part of energy management program aimed at optimizing a chilled water system in a building network that faced substantial inefficiencies due to excessive chilled water flow. We encountered a serious issue with a 500 m³/h excess chilled water flow in our CP residential area, significantly impacting energy consumption. We thoroughly inspected the entire chilled water network, including valve chambers, valve pits, and isolation valves. we found chilled water leakages, bypass flow, and CHW passing valves. we worked to rectify the problems by repairing the leaks, rerouting the chilled water supply, and minimizing bypass and passing. This optimization has not only contributed to significant energy but has also reduced the building's carbon footprint by approximately 5%.

3.) Have you resolved any perpetual design-related HVAC complaint from a tenant in the past one year? And how? (234)

Answer: Over the past year, I resolved a complex design-related HVAC complaint regarding insufficient chilled water flow from one of client. Our chilled maze network covers around 21 square km, with multiple routes and pipe sizes to serve various clients based. This client’s building, located at the end of one branch, was not receiving the design CHW flow.
We attempted several strategies, including increasing flow from the main plant, rerouting supply, raising pressure, and partially controlling flow in other branches. Despite these efforts, the issue remained unresolved. One day, while redistributing chilled water flow, we noticed that closing one of the main supply lines suddenly boosted flow to the affected branch. After further investigation, we assume there is a bypass pipe connecting to these supply lines, likely left-over during network flushing. By isolating this line and rerouting the chilled water to the client, we restored sufficient flow, fully addressing the issue.

4.) What is your standard operating procedure when responding to a tenant complaint relating to IEQ? (235)

Answer: Over the past year, I resolved a complex design-related HVAC complaint regarding insufficient chilled water flow from one of client. Our chilled maze network covers around 21 square km, with multiple routes and pipe sizes to serve various clients based. This client’s building, located at the end of one branch, was not receiving the design CHW flow.
We attempted several strategies, including increasing flow from the main plant, rerouting supply, raising pressure, and partially controlling flow in other branches. Despite these efforts, the issue remained unresolved. One day, while redistributing chilled water flow, we noticed that closing one of the main supply lines suddenly boosted flow to the affected branch. After further investigation, we assume there is a bypass pipe connecting to these supply lines, likely left-over during network flushing. By isolating this line and rerouting the chilled water to the client, we restored sufficient flow, fully addressing the issue.

5.) What procedures do you follow to recover refrigerant from an air conditioning system? (236)

Answer: To recover refrigerant from an air-conditioning system, begin by switching off power. Wear PPE and inspect recovery equipment for compatibility. Connect the recovery machine to the system’s service ports, install an inline filter dryer, and attach a vacuumed recovery cylinder. Purge hoses to eliminate air and open service valves to allow refrigerant flow. Start the recovery machine, using either liquid or vapor recovery based on system size, or the push/pull method for larger systems. During vapor recovery, maintain water circulation in the system to prevent freezing. Monitor pressure gauges, ensuring refrigerant removal until the required vacuum level is reached. After recovery, close all valves, label the cylinder with refrigerant details, and document the process for compliance.

6.) Describe general and site-specific training you have received in the past one year? (237)

Answer: Attended Project Management Professional PMP training workshop.

7.) What do you do when confronted with a BMS/Chiller Plant Manager or any equipment that might require extensive repair/upgrade/modifications? (238)

Answer: When faced with a BMS, chiller plant manager, or equipment requiring maintenance, my priority is to ensure continuous service to clients while maintaining safe operational parameters. If alternate equipment is available, I will activate it to prevent any service disruption. If there is an issue with the BMS or CPM, I initially attempt to maintain operation manually, mirroring the automation settings. In cases where optimized control isn’t feasible, I bypass the system and operate with direct power. For extensive repairs or modifications, I assess the impact and isolate the faulty equipment, communicating the issue to management for approval and further action. Minor faults that can be rectified are addressed immediately to avoid escalation. We follow the standards for repairing and replacing parts, particularly those that have reached their lifespan or show recurring issues. By taking these steps, I ensure efficient, reliable operation while prioritizing client comfort and system integrity.

8.) Describe your exposure to AI and IoT in building assets you are tasked to operate and maintain. (239)

Answer: In my role, I have significant exposure to IoT technologies in managing building assets, particularly in optimizing energy use and operational efficiency. I work with advanced JCI and Siemens automation systems, which leverage IoT connectivity to monitor and adjust the district cooling plant’s performance. These systems use IoT sensors to track variables like temperature, pressure, and flow rates, enabling real-time adjustments to equipment such as condenser water pumps and cooling tower fans in response to changing weather conditions. This adaptive technology helps us meet energy-saving targets while ensuring efficient and responsive plant operation. The integration of IoT has been invaluable in supporting both sustainability goals and enhancing client comfort.

9.) How many buildings, teams and technicians do you manage? How much training have you provided them in the past one year? And how do you motivate/incentivise them? (240)

Answer: I am part of a team responsible for supplying chilled water to around 160 buildings, addressing complaints, and rectifying any issues that arise. During planned preventive maintenance (PPM), I have managed teams of up to ten technicians to ensure that maintenance tasks are completed efficiently and effectively.
In terms of training, I have primarily focused on onboarding newcomers and guiding the maintenance team, equipping them with the essential knowledge and skills needed to perform their roles effectively. To motivate my team, I emphasize open communication and collaboration, ensuring that everyone feels valued and engaged. Additionally, I recognize and appreciate individual contributions, which helps foster a positive work environment and encourages a commitment to excellence in our operations.

Supporting documents:
References:CCAUAE2429 || muh.islam291@gmail.com

Copyright © 2022, CPI Industry, Dubai, UAE. All rights reserved.