Gulf Construction Online - LEED-ing the way in sustainable construction

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Kuwait International Airport’s T2 terminal ... LEED Gold target.

LEED-ing the way in sustainable construction

LEWIS BOYLAND, Middle East Technical Manager, Nuaire, provides an insight into key design considerations that need to be in focus when trying to obtain LEED certification for airports.

01 July 2023

In today’s increasingly interconnected world, airports have become vital gateways that welcome international travellers from far and wide. Serving as the first point of contact, airports significantly shape an individual's initial perception of a country, and so hold immense symbolic and practical significance. Their prominent position on the global stage presents an opportunity for countries to showcase their level of innovation and commitment to environmental responsibility.

The best way to demonstrate this is by obtaining certification from the globally recognised green building rating system, Leadership in Energy and Environmental Design (LEED). To become LEED certified, buildings must meet stringent criteria and showcase exceptional performance in energy efficiency, water conservation, indoor air quality, and material selection.

However, obtaining certification for airports poses an even greater challenge. Operating around the clock, 365 days a year, airports are highly energy intensive. Their characteristic high ceilings, expansive glass surfaces, and incredibly high traffic volumes mean that substantial power is required to operate the heating, ventilation and air-conditioning (HVAC) systems and electrical infrastructure within. In fact, HVAC equipment accounts for approximately 70 per cent of an airport terminal's total energy consumption.

Enhancing energy efficiency in HVAC systems, therefore, becomes the central objective. Nuaire Middle East has extensive experience in manufacturing and supplying premium, energy-efficient ventilation solutions. Its products have helped several airports in the region to obtain LEED certification, including Bahrain International Airport. Kuwait International Airport is aiming for the distinction of becoming the world's largest LEED Gold-certified building – and Nuaire’s air-control, ventilation and smoke extraction solutions are playing an important role in helping to achieve this goal.

Boyland ... airport safety is crucial.

Nuaire has engineered bespoke, large-duty ATEX-certified axial fans specifically for the Terminal 2 expansion. These axial fans are designed to minimise energy consumption without compromising on performance, thus assisting the Kuwait Ministry of Public Works to achieve its goal of reducing overall energy consumption by 27 per cent compared to a reference building designed under the Ashrae 90.1-2007 standard.

Similar results can be achieved in any airport by opting for axial fans that feature an IE3 motor. These fans guarantee higher levels of efficiency while generating the same output, thereby maximising performance and energy savings.

The second crucial factor for airports seeking LEED certification involves high-performing ventilation systems capable of maintaining a consistently healthy indoor environment. However, considering the diverse range of facilities within an airport, each with varying levels of contaminants and unique ventilation demands, airport HVAC systems are exceptionally complex. Every application requires specialised systems to maintain a safe environment for both passengers and employees. It’s also important that these specialised systems possess full accreditation to the highest quality standards to guarantee reliability and minimise the risk of failure. Neglecting this could lead to the accumulation of volatile organic compounds (VOCs), humidity, and temperature imbalances, posing risks to occupants and even the building itself and ultimately affecting the airport's business operations.

Opting for a single supplier for all ventilation systems within a project is highly recommended. This approach ensures consistency in design, performance, and controls, while also streamlining delivery and installation.

As a market-leading manufacturer, Nuaire Middle East offers the broadest spectrum of ventilation systems for complete airport solutions, from large-duty smoke extract to energy-efficient EC box fans suitable for office and toilet extract. As a holistic solutions provider, the company also provides the advantage of a dedicated point of contact for all systems, ensuring superior technical support and after-service care.

Lastly, there is the aspect of safety to consider, as occupant well-being is a crucial criterion for LEED certification. With their elevated occupancy levels and intricate infrastructure, encompassing numerous electrical systems, mechanical equipment, and jet fuel storage, airports are highly susceptible to fires. However, their size and complexity also pose challenges in terms of rapid evacuation, coordination, and fire control. In light of this, ventilation plays an even more crucial role in safeguarding occupants by granting sufficient time to evacuate the premises safely.

Engineered to prevent the spread of fire and the transmission of smoke, smoke extraction systems effectively confine the fire within a specific zone. They also maintain positive pressure in corridors, stairwells, and escape routes, facilitating swift evacuation for passengers and staff. By doing so, these systems not only save lives but also minimise potential damage to the building.

To mitigate the potential impact of a catastrophic fire, airports must invest in robust systems that can be trusted to perform when you need them the most. Nuaire’s EN12101-3 accredited high-temperature axial fans are capable of extracting smoke for up to two hours, even in temperatures as high as 400 degrees C. Every product also undergoes rigorous testing at its AMCA International accredited in-house test facility before being delivered on site to guarantee the highest levels of performance.

Considering the complexities of airports compared to other commercial buildings, a comprehensive ventilation strategy cannot be approached in the same way, especially when striving to attain LEED certification. To ensure compliance, maximise safety, minimise energy consumption and lower operational costs, it is crucial to collaborate with an experienced manufacturer who will guide you throughout the entire process, from planning to installation and after-service care.