WAI takes pride in developing innovative engineering solutions in concert with the development of the architectural design. Below are just a few solutions we frequently use and have found to be successful.
The use of photovoltaic technology has been a proven success in saving energy costs. WAI has recently completed the design of a 40 KW photovoltaic system for the Smithsonian Institute’s National Zoo Asia Trail II project. The system uses a 2,500 square foot photovoltaic array to generate approximately 10% of the project’s energy needs.
WAI has designed geothermal systems for a number of different building types. For each project, the decision to utilize a geothermal system was based upon a life cycle cost analysis in which the geothermal system was one of typically four system options. All geothermal well fields have been designed using test results from an in-situ test typically performed on two well locations in a proposed well field array.
Michael Weigand, PE presented at the Ground Source Heating and Cooling for Residential and Commercial Properties on Ground Source Earth Coupling Design Principles on February 20, 2008. Please see attached his presentation. WAI - GEOTHERMAL CONFERENCE 2008
Load leveling ice storage system used on many of our projects provides several advantages, including: reducing first cost, reducing operating cost, lowering life cycle cost, and improving indoor air quality (from the lower relative humidity available because the system provides more dehumidification).
WAI designed a load level ice storage plant for Drew Freeman Middle School. This system was life cycle cost with a computer model and was not only the least expensive from a life cycle and operating cost standpoint, but was also $12,000 less expensive than a conventional chilled water plant.
On projects with marginal available incoming water pressures, we have performed iterative hydraulic analysis coupled with comparative economic studies to determine the feasibility of over sizing fire sprinkler mains to eliminate fire pumps and associated supporting systems. WAI accomplished this on one recent project with a net cost savings in excess of $120,000.
One method WAI has utilized for aggressive first cost reductions is the implementation of high Delta T system designs (with chilled water temperature differentials of 16°F and hot water differentials of 30°F). These system designs have achieved first cost reductions in piping, pipe insulation, pumps motors and associated electrical power distribution systems; as well as operations cost savings.
Similarly WAI has utilized low temperature air delivery systems to increase the cooling capacity of existing HVAC forced air systems and to fit ductwork into previously un-air conditioned spaces and buildings.
WAI takes pride in staying above par with all industry developments, including Leadership in Energy and Environmental Design (LEED). WAI has been involved with multiple projects that have been or are in the process of being LEED certified. WAI is also taking the initiative to have all of their engineers become LEED certified within the next two years. Examples of current projects that have been or are being evaluated for LEED certification include the following:
- Asia Trail II, The Elephant House and Habitat at The National Zoo: WAI is currently providing mechanical, plumbing, electrical, and fire protection design services for this design build project. This project anticipates a LEED Gold certification.
- Oxen Hill High School Renovation and Addition: This project involves the demolition and reconstruction of the majority of the school. WAI is acting as a commissioning agent for the LEED commissioning requirements.
- The Billy Goat Restaurant, Washington, DC: WAI provided the MPE design for this new restaurant tenant fit-up in the new National Association of Realtors Building in compliance with the LEED certification criteria which was established under the base building design.
- Feasibility Study of the Spring Mills Center, Silver Spring, Maryland: A circa 1962 Montgomery County Public Schools elementary school building. This building is currently used for a combination of administrative purposes and instructional space. This project included: LEED issues, building envelope improvements, and an HVAC replacement.
- Pentagon Renovation of Wedge II: WAI provided the plumbing design for this 1.6 million square foot LEED Gold project. The plumbing design included the following sustainable features: low water consumption fixtures, waterless floor drain trap guards, and an energy saving domestic hot water generating and recirculation system.
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