University of Queensland AIBN (B75) – Heat pump retrofit, Brisbane, QLD

The University of Queensland (UQ) contracted NDY to investigate building services within the the Australian Institute for Bioengineering and Nanotechnology building (AIBN), including a heat pump system localised on level 7 and air handling systems on levels 5 and 6. NDY had collaborated with UQ’s Energy Office with a heat pump retrofit at their PACE Building (Princess Alexandra Hospital), with AIBN a technical progression of design from previously implemented UQ projects that incorporated lessons learned.

The existing electric heating systems maintained suitable space conditions, but the client sought an improved energy efficient heating solution.

A comprehensive understanding of the building’s HVAC system efficiencies and controls requirements was critical to the feasibility assessment. Through onsite investigations, NDY worked with UQ Energy Office to identify that:

1. an integration of heating hot water coils into the existing supply air ductwork was required
2. the application of chilled water reclaim energy into the existing precinct chilled water system not only presented an opportunity for a simplified process, but also allowed the client to meet their energy neutral strategy.

These installations took place on a system that supplies air conditioning to an operational animal house. The effect of the installation on space conditions and animal welfare required detailed coordination and discussion throughout the final design and installation phases of the project. A close collaboration between UQ Energy Office and NDY was critical to the success of the project. NDY will continue to provide innovative design solutions that provide long term benefit and cost savings.

Over a full year of operation following the retrofit, there were improvements on the AIBN building’s heating and cooling energy consumption. Furthermore, these changes were seen as not having any negative impacts on space conditions for the animal houses.