Building Service, Taylor's University Lakeside Campus //

BUILDING SERVICES (BLD 60903 / ARC 2423)
Project 2 - Building Services For Old Folks’ Home
Prepared By:
Chia Sue Hwa 0317920
Joshua Yim 0317945
Khor Yen Min 0318149
Koh Sung Jie 0318912
Lovie Tey 0318155
Low En Huey 0317889
Tutor/Lecturer:
Ar. Sateerah Hassan

Table of Contents
1. Abstract
2. Project Introduction
2.1 Introduction to the Building
2.2 Introduction of Site
3. Active Fire Protection System
3.1 Literature Review
3.2 Fire Detection System
3.2.1 Smoke Detector and Heat Detector
3.3 Triggers
3.3.1 Manual Pull Station
3.4 Fire Alarm System
3.5 Fire Intercom System
3.6 Fireman Switch
3.7 Main Fire Control Panel
3.8 External Fire Hydrant System
3.9 Fire Sprinkler System
3.9.1 Sprinkler Pump
3.9.2 Water Storage
3.10 Hand Operated Fire Fighting Equipment
3.10.1 Fire Extinguisher
3.10.2 Hose Reel System
4. Passive Fire Protection System
4.2 Purpose Group and Compartment
4.2.1 Separation of Fire Risk Area
4.2.2 Fire-rated Door
4.2.3 Firewall
4.3 Fire Appliance Access
4.4 Means of Escape
4.4.1 Fire Emergency Staircase
4.4.2 Emergency Exit Signs
4..4.3 Emergency Escape Route
4..4.4 Assembly Point
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5. Air Conditioning System
5.2 VRV(Variable Refrigerant Volume) System
5.3.1 Introduction and Justification
5.3.2 Principles of VRV
5.3.3 System Structure
5.3.4 Operation System
5.3.5 Outdoor Unit
5.3.6 Points of Refrigerant Control
5.3.7 Cassette Type Indoor Unit
5.3 Lift Air Conditioners

6. Mechanical Ventilation System
6.2 Wall Ventilation Fan
6.3 Centrifugal Fan
6.4 Ceiling fan
6.5 Exhaust Hood
7. Mechanical Transportation System
7.2 Machine-Room-less Elevator
7.2.2 Product Information
7.2.3 Components of System
7.2.4 Operation System
9. Conclusion
10. References

In this assignment, information regarding mechanical ventilation, air-conditioning system, mechanical
transportation system as well as fire protection systems were identified and understood. Basic principles,
process and equipment of various building services systems found in buildings were introduced. Each system
has its own pro’s and con’s, and thus they were studied. Through the analysis, appropriate measures of building
services systems were proposed for a multi-storey public building. Their functions, such as the connections,
intersections and installation of different parts and equipment were properly understood. The information
was summarized in diagrammatic forms and images. Moreover, all of the systems proposed were compared
to the UBBL Law requirement and other legal requirements to make sure they were realistic and practical if
the building was to be built with the integrated systems.
The chosen building is an elderly centre under a Studio 4 proposal located at Taman Kanapuram. The elderly
centre aims to restore the self-worth of the old folks residing in nursery homes nearby through bonding
people of similar interest and recognizing their own talents. The building is a two-storey building with an
open ground floor plan and a clustered first floor plan. There are many activity spaces ranging from an
interactive sewing station to a quiet reading room to a wide open event space.
It is widely dependent of natural ventilation from its lack of barriers, however mechanical ventilation and air-
conditioning are still required for the enclosed rooms present. Accessibility between the two floor involves
staircases and lifts as its elderly users might have walking disabilities.
Figure 2.1: Rendering of the elderly centre.
1. Abstract
2. Project Introduction
2.1 Introduction to the Building
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Figure 2.2 (Top right): Seksyen 18 (red) pinpointed in map of Petaling Jaya, Figure 2.3 (Overall): Bunglow lot (red) pinpointed in Seksyen 18.
Petaling Jaya used to be a rubber estate for the Indian community in Malaya before being developed by the
British for Kuala Lumpur’s economic growth. It is home to Assunta Hospital which is located along Jalan
Templer, its retiring doctors are heavily invested into opening nursing homes for the elderly due to the ageing
crisis. Thus, the appearance of nursing homes in Petaling Jaya has become a natural occurance.
Taman Kanapuram is located at the southeast corner of Petaling Jaya. It was developed by the Jaffnese
Cooperative Housing Society since 1954 and was primarily catered for the Indian community ever since.
Recently, low-cost apartments were erected to provide housing demands, however many bungalows lots are
abandoned and some are converted for non-residential purposes. There are currently 9 nursing homes around
Taman Kanapuram and this has introduced a large number of Chinese inhabitants into its Indian community.
2.2 Introduction of Site
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ActiveFireProtectionisagroupofsystemsthatrequireacertainamountofmotionandresponsesinordertowork
efficientlyintheeventoffire.Itisalsoaboutalertingbuildingoccupantsandtosuppressthefireusingsystemssuch
as fire alarms, sprinkler systems and fire extinguishers. There are few stages in active fire protection which are:
In the event of fire, fire is detected using the fire detector systems. There are several types of detectors
such as smoke detector, heat detector and flame detector. Different detectors are used at different area
to detect the different characteristics of fire depending on the individual circumstances. The detectors
will send the signal to the main fire control panel and activate the alarm system.
In the event of fire, alarm system has to be activated manually to signal the occupants of the building.
There are two types of manual fire alarm activation which are the pull station and the call point.
Automatic detection system and the manual fire alarm activation can be used in conjunction as an
overall fire detection and alarm system. The manual call points are usually visible from sight and are
usually connected to a central fire alarm panel which is in turn connected to the alarm system of the
building.
Fire alarm system serves primarily to protect life and secondarily to prevent property loss. A fire alarm
system must be tailored to the needs of a specific facility. Fire alarm systems has three basic parts:
signal initiation, signal processing and alarm indication whereby the signal initiation can be manual
(pull stations) or automatic (smoke detectors). The alarm signal is processed by some sort of control
equipment, which in turn activates audible and visible alarms.
Fire Intercom System also known as the Remote Handset Station, provides a reliable communication
between the Main Fire Control Panel and the Remote Handset Stations.
When the fire brigade arrives, the fire fighters will have to turn off the hazardous electrical equipment
in case of fire or explosion through the fireman switch. The switch is located at a clearly visible location.
I. Fire Detection
II. Triggers
III. Fire Alarm System
IV. Fire Intercom System
V. Fireman Switch
3. Active Fire Protection System
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A fire sprinkler system consists of a water supply system, providing adequate pressure and flowrate
to a water distributing piping system and onto which fire sprinklers are connected. It is important to
have the fire sprinkler system installed to supress rapid fire. There are different types of fire sprinkler
depends on the occupancies. The common sprinkler systems are: wet-pipe system, dry-pipe system,
deluge system, mist system and pre-action system
Fire extinguisher is a portable device for firefighting purpose. Portable fire extinguishers are classified
based on type of fire they are designed to fight. The number of extinguishers required and location
of the extinguishers depends on the hazard of occupancy. The portable fire extinguishers are able to
control small fire.
1. Hose Reel System
2. Wet Riser System
3. Dry Riser System
4. Non Water Based Suppression Systems (eg: CO2, Argonite)
VIII. Fire Sprinkler System
IX. Fire Extinguisher System
Other components of Active Fire Protection includes:
A fire hydrant is a connection point by which firefighters can tap into a water supply. It is part of the
active fire protection system. Fire hydrant systems are highly pressured that when assembled together
by firefighters, will be able to put off the fire. When there is fire, the firefighters will attach a hose to the
fire hydrant, and then a valve is opened to provide a powerful flor of water.
VII. External Fire Hydrant System
The main fire control panel is the controlling component of a fire alarm system. The panel received
notifications and signals for potential issues with equipment that could cause a fire. At the same time,
it alerts the employees inside the building if fire is detected. There are different types of panels, such as
coded panels, conventional panels, addressable panels, and multiplex systems.
VI. Main Fire Control Panel
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Under the fire detection systems, smoke detectors provide early warning to the occupant when smokes are
detected. The key advantage of smoke detectors is their ability to identify a fire while it is still in its incipient.
As such, it is important to use smoke detectors in the elderly day care centre as it buys more time for the
elderlies to evacuate when there is fire. They are also highly reliable as they have a very low probability of false
alarm that may affect the elderlies.
There are two types of smoke detectors contain either the ionization type or the photo-electronic sensors.
Each type of smoke detectors detect different types of fire. Research indicates that photo-electronic detectors
provide sufficient time for occupants to escape from smouldering and flaming fires whereas for ionisation
detectors, they are more sensitive to the flaming stage of fires.
For the elderly day care centre, photo electronic smoke detectors are chosen as part of the system as they
are generally more responsive to fires that begin with a long period of smouldering. They are screwed to the
ceiling as that is where smoke heads for when something is burning. In this type of detector, a light source is
used to detect smoke. The infra-red LED is a lens that shots a light beam over a large area. At an angle to the
LED is a photo-diode which normally does not register the column of light emitted by the LED. When there
is smoke present in the room, the smoke particles will cause the light to scatter and hence registered by the
photo-diode. It will then trigger the alarm when there is sufficient light on the photo-diode.
Smoke detectors are installed at lift lobbies, lift shafts, corridors, common areas and exit routes. They are
mostly installed side by side with sprinkler unit to put out fire at instance. Due to nature of kitchens which are
regularly filled with smoke, smoke detectors installed at kitchen might cause false alarms. Thus, heat detectors
are more suitable to be installed at the kitchen as they will detect abnormally high temperatures or rapid rises
in temperature which will alert a potential fire in kitchen.
3.2.1 Smoke Detector and Heat Detector
3.2 Fire Detection System
Figure 3.1: Diagram of how photo-electronic detector works. Figure 3.2: Example of photo-electronic smoke detector
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UBBL 1984 Section 153: Smoke detectors for lift lobbies
(1) All Lift lobbies shall be provided with smoke detectors
(2) Lift not opening into a smoke lobby shall not use door reopening devices controlled by light
beam or photo-detectors unless incorporated with a force close feature which after thirty
seconds of any interruption of the beam causes the door to close within a pre-set time.
Figure 3.3: Location of fire detectors at Ground Floor & First Floor.
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In order to activate the pull station alarm system, the user has to pull down the handle to trigger the alarm.
After operation, building personnel will reset the fire alarm pull station using a key after investigating the
cause of alarm. Hence, alarm is reset from the fire alarm control panel when the handle is back to its original
position.
For the elderly day care centre, a dual-action fire alarm pull station is needed. As such, the user is required to
perform a second task before pulling the handle down. A clear plastic stopper cover is installed on top of the
pull stations. This is to prevent accidental movement from the elderlies that trigger the alarm which in turn
creates false alarms. Also, by plastic covers, it is much safer compared to glass as the possibility of broken glass
may harm the elderlies. The pull stations are installed at a height of 1.2m above floor level at easily accessible
positons.
In the elderly day care centre, the manual pull stations
are spaced at a maximum distance of 25m as there are elderlies
with limited mobility. Some mounting height of the manual pull
stations are at a lower height so that the disabled people can
operate the stations. Manual pull stations are located on escape
routes, exits points to open air. More stations are installed in the
centre as the elderlies are likely to be slow in movement in the
event of evacuation.
3.3.1 Manual Pull Station
3.3 Triggers
Figure 3.5: Location of the manual pull
stations at Ground Floor & First Floor.
Figure 3.4:: Example of activated pull station
underneath a plastic stopper cover.
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For the elderly day care centre, a two stage fire alarm system is used. A two stage alarm system is designed
so that the activation of any signal initiating device (manual pull station and smoke detector) will cause an
alert signal to sound to alert supervisory staff on duty at the security room or office about the fire emergency.
Activation of a key switch in a manual pull station, at the fire alarm control panel or control facility will cause
an alarm signal to sound throughout the building. Using this system, it can reduce undue distress of the
elderlies and reduce the possibility of false alarms.
During a fire, activation of an alarm sounder is to raise attention of the occupants so that evacuation can
be done immediately without causing harm to the occupants. As for alarm bells, a minimum sound level
of 65db (A) or 5db (A) above ambient noise level sustainable for a period of minimum 20 seconds should
be produced by the Sounder Unit. The alarms are mounted on the wall at a minimum height of 2.1m from
floor level. All alarm sounders within a building should have similar sound characteristics. Audible (horns,
sounders, speakers) are located in non-patient areas whereas visible appliances (strobes) are allowed to be
used in place of audible appliances in patient occupied areas.
Speakers and strobes are installed
throughout the buildings to signal
the elderlies in the event of fire.
Chime strobes are installed at
common used spaces for the hearing
impaired elderlies.
3.4 Fire Alarm System
Figure 3.6: Photo of Chime strobes. Figure 3.7: Photo of speakers.
UBBL 1984 Section 237 : Fire Alarms
(1) Fire alarms shall be provided in accordance with the Tenth Schedule to these By-laws.
(2) All premises and buildings with gross floor area excluding car park and storage areas
exceeding 929 square meters or exceeding 30.5 meters in height shall be provided with
a two stage alarm system with evacuation (continuous signal) to be given immediately
in the affected section of the premises while an alert (intermittent signal) shall be given
in adjoining section.
(3) Provision shall be made for the general evacuation of the premises by action of a master
control.
(4) Alarm Bell must provide a minimum sound level of 65db (A) pr +5db (A) above any
background noises, which is likely to persist for more than 30 seconds.
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Figure 3.8: Location of Fire Speakers(Top) and Chime Strobes(Bottom) at Ground Floor & First Floor.
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For the elderly day care centre, a two stage fire alarm system is used. A two stage alarm system is designed
so that the activation of any signal initiating device (manual pull station and smoke detector) will cause an
alert signal to sound to alert supervisory staff on duty at the security room or office about the fire emergency.
Activation of a key switch in a manual pull station, at the fire alarm control panel or control facility will cause
an alarm signal to sound throughout the building. Using this system, it can reduce undue distress of the
elderlies and reduce the possibility of false alarms.
During a fire, activation of an alarm sounder is to raise attention of the occupants so that evacuation can
be done immediately without causing harm to the occupants. As for alarm bells, a minimum sound level
of 65db (A) or 5db (A) above ambient noise level sustainable for a period of minimum 20 seconds should
be produced by the Sounder Unit. The alarms are mounted on the wall at a minimum height of 2.1m from
floor level. All alarm sounders within a building should have similar sound characteristics. Audible (horns,
sounders, speakers) are located in non-patient areas whereas visible appliances (strobes) are allowed to be
used in place of audible appliances in patient occupied areas.
3.5 Fire Intercom System
The remote handset also known as fire intercom stations are
placed at the fire staircase and exit routes as well as near the
reception area for the staff to contact the nearest fire station
when there is an emergency.
Figure 3.9: Photo of Fire Intercom System.
UBBL 1984 Section 239: Voice Communication System
(1) There shall be two separate approved continuously electrically supervised voice
communication systems, one a fire brigade communications system and the other a public
address system between the central control station and the following areas:
(a) Lifts, lift lobbies, corridors and staircases;
(b) In every office area exceeding 92.9 square metres in area;
(c) In each dwelling unit and hotel guest room where the fire brigade system may be
combined with the public address system.
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Figure 3.10: Location of Fire Intercom Stations at Ground Floor & First Floor.
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When there is a fire breakout, the firefighters that arrive on
scene will be able to operate and off the fire switch. It is a
specialized switch that allows firefighters to disconnect power
from high voltage devices that may explode when there is fire.
The fireman switch is located at an easily accessible location to
control the electrical appliances of the building. The switch is
used to run the under voltage release or stunt trip in the main
incoming breaker. The firefighter uses an insulated rod to pull
the handle which isolates the utility supply to the building.
3.6 Fireman switch
The fireman switch is mounted at the outer wall of the security room beside the assembly area so that it is
easier for the fire fighters to access the switch when they arrive.
Figure 3.11: Photo of the fireman switch.
Figure 3.12: Location of the fireman switch at Ground Floor.
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Figure 3.15: Location of main fire control panel at Ground Floor.
In the elderly day care centre, addressable panels are used as it has greater information capacity and control
flexibility. An addressable fire alarm system uses addressable fire detection devices, both automatic and
manual. The detectors are equipped with electronic circuitry, usually mounted in a special base. The panel
is able to locate the exact location of a fire inside the building, which gives time for the staffs to shut down
the device and prevent further property damage and threat to the elderlies. It also detects the conditions that
could lead to a fire.
3.7 Main Fire Control Panel
The addressable alarm system connects the detectors and pull stations using a loop. Both ends of the wire
loop connect to the control panel using one wire. It helps in reducing false alarms. Every device has its own
unique address. In the event of fire, the device’s address shows up on the main control panel, pin point the
exact location of fire for evacuation purpose. This will reduce the risk of serious injuries and fatalities and at
the same time the staffs can take prompt action to prevent the fire from spreading at the location. The control
panel will be located at the security room.
Figure 3.13:
Addressable fire
control panel.
Figure 3.14: Addressable Alarm System Schematic Diagram
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The location of the external fire hydrant is about 58m
away from the elderly day care centre. It is a two way
hydrant placed beside the road for easy access. There
are no parking space allocated in front of the elderly
day care centre. Hence, the main road which is Jalan
18/16 will be used for the fire truck to park. As the road
is rather narrow, the fire truck might cause a heavy
traffic especially during peak hours such as 8am-10am
and 5pm-7pm on weekdays.
3.8 External Fire Hydrant System
Figure 3.16: External Fire Hydrant found at Jalan 18/16
Taman Kanagapuram.
Figure 3.17: Figure showing the distance from site to the external fire hydrant.
UBBL 1984 Section 225: Detecting and extinguishing fire
(1) Every building shall be provided with means of detecting and extinguishing fire and with fire
alarms together with illuminated exit signs in accordance with the requirements as specified
in the Tenth Schedule to these By-laws.
(2) Every building shall be served at least one fire hydrant located not more than 91.5 metres
from the nearest point of fire brigade access.
(3) Depending on the size and location of the building and the provision of access for fire
appliances, additional fire hydrant shall be provided as may be required by the Fire Authority.
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As for the elderly day care centre, quick response sprinklers are used where faster sprinkler operation could
enhance life safety. One measure of thermal sensitivity is the response time index (RTI), which indicates
how fast the sprinkler can absorb sufficient heat from its surroundings to cause activation. Quick response
sprinklers have an RTI of 50 or less. As compared to standard-response sprinklers which have RTI of 80 or
more, quick response sprinklers are a better choice for elderly day care centres. The fast-response sprinkler’s
operating element has a smaller mass, enabling it to respond to the air temperature rise more quickly. Quick
response sprinkler has a smaller bulb whereas standard response sprinkler has a thicker bulb.
The type of sprinkler used is the pendant sprinklers. The pendant sprinkler head hangs down from the ceiling
and spray water in a circular array.
Wet-Pipe systems is used for the fire
sprinkler system. They are filled with
water under pressure and are limited
to spaces in which the air temperature
does no fall below 4.4 degree Celsius.
In the wet pipe system, sprinklers in
the affected area are opened by heat-
sensitive elements within the sprinkler
heads themselves and immediately emit
water. The sprinkler piping is carried
above suspended ceilings.
3.9 Fire Sprinkler System
Figure 3.18: Comparison between quick response sprinklers and standard
response sprinklers.
Figure 3.19: Wet pipe sprinkler system.
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Figure 3.20: Location of sprinklers.
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Figure 3.21: Duty pump.
Figure 3.22: Jockey pump.
The sprinkler pumps draw water from sprinkler storage
tank to feed the sprinkler network. Two sets on pumps,
one on duty and other on standby, are provided together
with a jockey pump to maintain system pressure.
Sprinkler pump capacity should be selected to meet the
duties defined for the various classes of hazards. For
light hazard occupancies, the flow requirement for the
sprinklers is 300cu dm/mon at 1.5 bars. In addition to
the above flow requirements, the sprinkler pump should
be capable of satisfying two other flows and pressures as
described in BS EN 12845.
The standby sprinkler pumpset is diesel engine drive.
Electrical cabling to supply power to the sprinkler
pumps should be MICC of fire rated type. As for
batteries for the diesel engine, should be maintenance-
free type.
Sprinkler pumpsets should be capable of automatic
starting but should only be stopped manually.
3.9.1 Sprinkler Pump
UBBL 1984 Section 226: Automatic system for hazardous occupancy
UBBL 1984 Section 228: Sprinkler valves
(1) Where hazardous processes, storage or occupancy are of such character as to require
automatic sprinklers or other automatic extinguishing system, it shall be of a type and
standard appropriate to extinguish fires in the hazardous materials stored or handled or for
the safety of the occupants.
(1) Sprinkler valves shall be located in a safe and enclosed position on the exterior wall and shall
be readily accessible to the Fire Authority.
(2) All Sprinklers systems shall be electricity connected to the nearest fire station to provide
immediate and automatic relay of the alarm when activated.
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Water tank plays an important role in storing large amount of water for firefighting purpose. The water
storage tank should be designed and constructed that only requires little maintenance or servicing.
For light hazard groups, 9cu metres sprinkler storage tank is used. Pressed steel tanks that are hot dipped
galvanized and coated internally with bituminous paint for corrosion protection is suitable for the sprinkler
storage tank. The tanks should be compartmented and the external surface of the tank should be painted red.
Breeching inlets are provided so that the fireman can pump water into the sprinkler tank to make up for water
used. They should be located no more than 18m from the fire appliance access road and not more than 30m
from the nearest external hydrant outlet. The water tank for the sprinkler system is installed on top of the roof
of the elderly day care centre.
3.9.2 Water Storage
Figure 3.23: Example of pressed steel sprinkler water tank.
UBBL 1984 Section 247: Water Storage
(1) Water storage capacity and water flow rate for firefighting systems and installations shall be
provided in accordance with the scale as set out in the Tenth Schedule to theses By-laws.
(2) Main water storage tanks within the building, other than for hose reel systems, shall be
located at ground, first or second basement levels, with fire brigade pumping inlet
connections accessible to fire appliances.
(3) Storage tanks for automatic sprinkler installations where full capacity is provided without
need for replenishment shall be exempted from the restrictions in their location.
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Figure 3.24: Location of sprinkler storage tank at roof.
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In the elderly day care centre, dry
powder extinguishers are placed near
the fire staircases, reception desk near
the kitchen as well as the security
room where there are live electrical
equipment. The kitchen has two types
of fire extinguishers located nearby,
one is the dry powder type and
another type is the CO2 type as there
are cooking oil and fats present in the
kitchen.
3.10.1 Fire Extinguisher
3.10 Hand Operated Fire Fighting Equipment
Figure 3.25: Types of fire extinguishers.
Figure 3.26: Location of fire
extinguishers at Ground Floor
and First Floor.
UBBL 1984 Section 227: Portable Extinguishers
(1) Portable extinguisher shall be provided in accordance with the relevant codes of practice
and shall be sited in prominent positions on exit routes to be visible from all directions and
similar extinguishers in a building shall be of the same method of operation.
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Fire hose reels control supply of water to combat fire, especially when the building occupants are trapped and
could not escape to an emergency exit. In the elderly day care centre, it is important to have hose reel installed
as it will buy more time for the elderlies who are slow in movement during evacuation. There are one hose
reel as each floor as the coverage of the hose reel is wide, which is 30m. They are located beside the lifts and
fire escape staircase for easy access.
Specification for Hose Reel System
Discharge jet length : 30 l/m
Material : Rubber hose
Length of hose : 30m
Diameter of hose : 25mm
Diameter of nozzle : 8mm
Pipework system : 50mm diameter, individual hose is
25mm diameter
Specification for Hose Reel Pumps
Type of pumps : Duty pump and standby pump
Engine : Electrically driven
Specification for Hose Reel Water Tank
The water tank is located at the roof and is combined with potable water tank to form one water tank. A pump
is installed together with the tank which will run continuously until it is forced to stop manually. The pump
is electrically driven as there is only two hose reels in the elderly day care centre. A pump control panel is
installed adjacent to the pump and is properly sheltered. 1500l water tank is used for the hose reel.
3.10.2 Hose Reel System
Figure 3.27: Example of Fire Hose Reel.
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Figure 3.28: Location of Hose Reel System.
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TheinstallationofPassiveFireProtectionSysteminabuildingorastructureisusedtocontainorslowdownthe
spreadoffiretootherareasorpartofthebuilding.Bydelayingthespreadingoffire,thiscanincreasethetimefor
occupantstoescapefromthebuilding.Also,considerationofthissystemwillbemadeduringtheplanningdesign
stage in the building design of any constructions. The four main criteria for passive fire protection system are:
Separation of fire risk area is where a corridor forms part of a means of escape in one direction
only (dead end situation) it must be separated from all adjoining areas – except toilets – by fire-
resisting construction. Rooms of high fire risk (e.g. plant rooms, storage areas for flammables/
highly flammables) must be separated from adjoining areas, especially corridors forming
means of escape, by fire-resisting construction.
Fire rated doors which are thicker than normal door are used in a building to separate it to
compartmentstopreventfirefromspreading.Itisusuallyusedforemergencyexitsorstaircases.
Fire rated door helps to slow down the fire by restricting the flow of oxygen and prevent the fire
from spreading. By using fire rated door, this can improve the flow of evacuation of users and
also the safety of the fire fighters.
Firewall is a non-bearing wall which is capable to provide up to 240 minutes’ fire resistance. It
can be used to subdivide a building into separate fire areas and are constructed in accordance
with the Uniform Building by Laws 1984. Firewall acts as a barrier between two spaces to
prevent the spread of fire in a period of time. This can prolong the time for users to escape from
the building.
Considerations of Fire Appliances Access is crucial for fire trucks to get in place without hassle during
the fire event. Fire hydrants must be situated nearby for fire-fighting and rescue activities to be carried
out smoothly. The fire brigade access must be clear from any blockage to allow high reach appliances
such as turntable ladders and hydraulic platforms to be used.
I. Purpose Group and Compartment
II. Fire Appliance Access
i. Separation of Fire Risk Area
ii. Fire Rated Door
iii. Firewall
4. Passive Fire Protection System
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Fire emergency staircases are crucial as it is an escape route for users to evacuate out of the
building safely.
Emergency exit signs are important to direct users to shortest routes to escape out from the
building which will lead them to the safe open outdoor assembly point. The Exit Emergency
signage of ‘KELUAR’ means ‘EXIT’ in Malaysia. The ‘KELUAR’ signage is required to be
permanently lit and must be visible to users at all times.
Emergency Escape Route plan is very important to provide users an easy and direct route out
of the building to a safe open outdoor assembly point in case of fire outbreak in the building.
All emergency escape routes must lead occupants from the building to a safe open outdoor
assembly point.
The requirements for this system are stated in the Uniform Building By Laws 1984 in section VII by law 133
to 224.
III. Means of Escape
i. Fire Emergency Staircase
ii. Emergency Exit Sign
iii. Emergency Escape Route
iv. Assembly Point
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In the elderly care centre, storage located on ground floor is a
potential high fire risk area. This is due to flammable liquids such as
household cleaners will be stored in the area. Compartmenting this
space can confine the fire and minimizes the risk of loss of users by
segregating the storage to control the spread of fire. Thus, separating
the storage from other areas such as corridor and staircases forming
means of escape are required to protect the safety of the users.
4.2 Purpose Group and Compartment
4.2.1 Separation of Fire Risk Area
UBBL- Section 139: Separation of fire risk areas.
Figure 4.1: Separation of
Fire Risk Area
Figure 4.2: Special requirements as to
compartment walls and compartment floors
The following area uses shall be separated from the other areas of the
occupancy in which they are located by fire resisting construction of
elements of structure of a FRP to be determined by local authority
based on the degree of hazed:
• Boiler rooms and associated duels storage area
• Laundries
• Repairs shops involving hazardous processes and materials
• Storage are of materials in quantities deemed hazardous
• Liquefied petroleum gas storage areas
• Linen rooms
• Flammable liquid stores
25

In the elderly care centre, recessed single leaf fire rated doors
are used for the enclosed rooms on ground and first floor. The
fire rated doors used in this centre has FPR of 3/4-hour with
FPR of one-hour walls. They are found in walls of corridors and
room partitions in the centre. All the doors in the centre are
openable from the inside without the use of a key or any special
knowledge or effort. When escaping, the door must be swing at
the exit direction of the room as it allows user to exit with ease,
allowing smoother and safe escapes. Automatic door closers of
swing doors are also installed to allow self-closing. This can help
prevent fire from spreading more to the other areas.
4.2.2 Fire Rated Door
Figure 4.3: Dimension of single leaf
fire rated door
UBBL- Section 162: Fire doors in compartment walls and separating walls
UBBL- Section 164 (1): Fire doors in compartment walls and separating walls
UBBL- Section 173 (1): Exit Doors
(1) Fire doors of the appropriate FRP shall be provided.
(2) Openings in compartment walls and separating walls shall be protected by a fire for having
a FRP in accordance with the requirements for that wall specified in the Ninth Schedule
to these By-Laws.
All fire doors shall be fitted with automatic door closers of the hydraulically spring operated type in the case
of swing doors and of wire rope and weight type in the case of sliding door.
All exit doors shall be openable from the inside without the use of a key or any special knowledge or effort.
26

Figure 4.4: Placement of Fire Rated Doors.
27

In elderly care centre, steel stud partition with FPR of
1-hour are placed in between enclosed room which
are right next to each other. The material used for the
partition is gypsum board. It is most commonly used fire
resistive material and is equally well known as a reliable
and economic surfacing material. The partition acts as a
barrier between two spaces to prevent the spread of fire
within 1-hour. It is sufficient to withstand and prolong
the escape time for users to evacuate out of the building.
4.2.3 Firewall
Figure 4.5: Terminology
of 1-hour rated Steel Stud
Partition
Figure 4.6: Placement of Firewall
UBBL- Section 138 (C): Other walls and
floors to be comnstructed as compartment
walls or compartment floors
UBBL- Section 148 (6): Special requirements
as to compartment walls and compartment
floors
Any wall or floor separating part of a building form
any other part of the same building, which is used
or intended to be used mainly for a purpose failing
within a different purpose group as, set out in the Fifth
Schedule to these by laws.
Any compartment walls or compartment floor which
is required by these By-Laws to have FRP of one
hour or more shall be constructed wholly of non-
combustible materials and, apart from any ceiling, the
required FRP of wall or floor shall be obtained without
assistance form any non-combustible materials.
28

In the elderly care centre, Jalan 18/16 (main road) is proposed to be the fire brigade access with a fire hydrant
located 60 meters away from the access point. The fire hydrant is located nearby for fire-fighting and rescue
activities to be carried out smoothly. It is crucial for fire trucks to get in place without hassle during the fire
event in this centre. The fire brigade access is clear from any blockage to allow high reach appliances such as
turntable ladders and hydraulic platforms to be used.
4.3 Fire Appliance Access
Figure 4.7: Relationship between building and access roads for high reach fire appliances
UBBL- Section 225 (2): Detecting and extinguishing fire
UBBL- Section 247 (2): Water Storage
Every building shall be served by at least one fire hydrant located not more than 91.5 meters from the nearest
point of fire brigade access.
Main water storage tanks within the building, other than for hose reel systems, shall be located at ground,
first or second basement levels, with fire brigade pumping inlet connections accessible to the fire appliances.
29

Figure 4.8: Location of Fire Appliance Access
30

There is one fire escape staircase located in the middle of the elderly care centre which is accessible for the
occupants from the above floors that lead the escape route to the safe outdoor assembly point. The width of
exit staircase in the centre is 1200mm. Besides that, the dimension of the tread (290mm) and risers (180mm)
are uniform for all steps of the staircase. The material used for the staircase is terrazzo (non-slip surface). It
has nosing of radius 10mm which is flushed with the riser to prevent users from slipping. Guiding blocks is
provided in order to warn the users the distance from the drop of staircase. It is offset 300mm from the first
tread with continuous handrail at both left and right side of the staircase, with 850mm above floor level. The
fire escape staircase is open aired, thus natural lighting and air ventilation is provided. This can increase the
safety of users when escaping from the building.
4.4 Means of Escape
4.4.1 Fire Escape Staircase
UBBL 1984 - Section 111: Lighting and ventilation of staircases
UBBL 1984 – Section 168 (1): Staircases
Figure 4.9: (LEFT) Stairs for ambulant disabled; (RIGHT) Configuration of steps
All staircases shall be properly lighted and ventilated according to the requirements of the local authority.
Except as provided for in by-law 194 every upper floor shall have means of egress via at least two separate
staircases
UBBL 1984 - Section 110: No obstruction in staircases
(1) There shall be no obstruction in any staircase between the topmost landing thereof and the
exit discharge on the ground floor.
(2) There shall be no projection, other than handrails in staircases, in any corridor, passage or
staircase at a level lower than 2 metres above the floor or above any stair.
31

Figure 4.10: Placement of Fire Escape Staircase
32

In the elderly care centre, ‘KELUAR’ signage are placed on both escape staircase and normal staircase and also
in every room of first floor whereas four ‘KELUAR’ signage will be placed on ground floor including the main
and back entrance of the building. The emergency exit signs are important to direct users to shortest routes
to escape out from the building which will lead them to the safe open outdoor assembly point. The ‘KELUAR’
signage is permanently lit at all time and are visible to users in the centre.
4.4.2 Emergency Escape Signs
Figure 4.11: Dimension of “KELUAR” Signage.
UBBL 1984 - Section 172: Emergency Exit Signs
(1) Every exit sign shall have word “KELUAR” in a plainly legible not less than 15mm height
with the principle strokes of the letters not less than 18mm wide.
(2) The exits and access to such exit shall be marked by readily visible signs and shall not be
obscured by and decorations, furnishing or other equipment.
(3) The sign with the reading of “KELUAR” should indicating the direction shall be placed in
every location where the direction of the travel to reach the nearest exit.
(4) All exit signs shall be illuminated continuously during period of occupancy
(5) The design and installation of every emergency exit sign shall be in compliance with MS983
and MS619.
33

Figure 4.12: Placement of Emergency Exit Sign
34

In the elderly care centre, the first floor has two
escape routes through the staircases whereas the
ground floor has four escape routes including the
main and back entrance. There are no obstructions
throughout the emergency escape route. This allows
users to escape the fastest and the safest exit route
in the building. Besides that, fire escape plans are
placed at most frequent used space for users to read.
4.4.3 Emergency Escape Route
Figure 4.13: Example of Fire Escape Plan
UBBL 1984- Section 165 (4): Measurement of travel distance to exits
UBBL 1984- Section 169: Exit route
The maximum travel distance to exits and dead end limits shall be as specified in the Seventh Schedule of
these By-Laws.
No exit route may reduce in width along its pathway of travel from the story exit to the final exit.
Figure 4.14: Emergency Escape Route
35

In this elderly care centre, the assembly point is located directly opposite the main entrance of the building.
This will ensure the safety of occupants during the incident.
4.4.4 Assembly Point
Figure 4.15: Emergency Assembly Point Sign
Figure 4.16: Assembly Point
UBBL 1984- Section 178: Exits for institutional and other places of assembly
In buildings classified as institutional or places of assembly, exits to a street or large open space, together with
staircases, corridors and passages leading to such exits shall be located, separated or protected as to avoid
any undue danger to the occupants of the place of assembly from fire originating in the other occupancy or
smoke therefrom.
36

5. Air Conditioning
37
I. Central
II. Room
III. Ductless, Split
IV. Evaporative Cooler
A central air conditioner circulates cool air through a home using a system of ducts and registers. It
will provide the most even cooling throughout the building. However, ductwork might prove to be
costly as it solely relies on it. Moreover, ducting system requires a lot of installation space.
Malaysia is a country with tropical rainforest climate – which is generally sunny throughout the year,
with high precipitation rates every month. This hot and humid condition defines thermal comfort
in our local context as having sufficient filtered air in a building, at a temperature of 22 to 27 degree
Celsius and relative humidity of 55-70%. Thus, the air-conditioning system as part of the ACMV (air-
Conditioned and Mechanical Ventilation) system is one of the most crucial building service in typical
Malaysian buildings to provide thermal comfort.
There are many types of air-conditioners, they include:
The most popular cooling system, a room air conditioner provides spot cooling and can be either a
window unit or a portable air conditioner. It can provide cooling to select spaces at an affordable cost.
Inversely, improper installation can result in significant air leakage, as much as 10%.
Mounted on the wall, a ductless, mini-split air conditioner provides zoned cooling without ductwork.
It is able to provide cooling as well as heating. Moreover, it is highly efficient and works in all climate
zones and can be an affordable alternative to installing a ducted system.
An evaporative cooler cools outdoor air using evaporated water and circulates it throughout the house.
It is a cost-effective cooling option in an arid climate. In addition to cooling the air, it adds moisture
which can improve comfort. It is a cheap solution but it requires more frequent maintainence and is
only suitable for areas with low humidity.

38
V. Multi-Split System
VI. Variable Refrigerant Volume (VRV)
Multi-split system requires one or more outdoor units mounted outside the home, and one or more
indoor blower units installed inside it. Suction lines, refrigerant lines and power cables run between
the indoor and outdoor components. It uses wall-mounted air-conditioners only and has high upfront
cost. If one condenser is faulty, none of the indoor units will work.
VRV is a large outdoor unit serves multiple indoor units. Its cooling is controlled & monitored
by Refrigerant Flow Volume to the indoor units. Any type & any capacity of indoor units can be
connected to single same outdoor unit and single refrigerant piping is installed for each system. With
less refrigerants and piping, it saves space. VRV allows individual control to indoor units & centralized
zonal control. It requires low power consumption due to Inverter technology, where the power is
calculated as per to usage of indoor units & corresponding percentage of outdoor unit operating.
Furthermore, its is compactable to any BMS network

The word-for-word definition of the Variable Refrigerant System goes as:
• Variable – System output depending on required load
• Refrigerant – Direct Expansion system
• Volume – Refrigerant flow regulated by electronic expansion valve varying compressor capacity.
VRV means Variable Refrigerant Volume System, where Cooling is controlled & monitored by Refrigerant
Flow Volume to the Indoor Units. VRF is the general term used in the market, whereas VRV is a copyright
by Daikin.
5.2 VRV(Variable Refrigerant Volume) System
Variable Refrigerant Flow (VRF) or Variable Refrigerant Volume (VRV) air conditioning systems
are an extremely energy efficient means of precisely regulating the temperature within a small-
scale commercial bungalow lot, in this case, an elderly activity centre. VRV is also low in power
consumption due to Inverter technology, where the power is calculated as per to usage of indoor units
& corresponding percentage of outdoor unit operating.
In its simplest form, a single VRF/VRV outdoor unit serves multiple indoor units, which are connected
to it via a system of copper pipework containing refrigerant. VRF/VRV technology achieves extremely
high efficiencies by varying the flow of refrigerant to the indoor units based on the exact demands
of the individual areas. This allows for precise temperature control and resulting zoned comfort in
different environments of the activity centre.
I. Energy Efficiency
Figure 5.1: Ventilation for
Ground Floor (left), First Floor
(Mid) and Wind direction on
First Floor (Right).
Wind direction
and entry
Indoor (Air-
conditioned)
Outdoor (Natural
Ventilation & Fan.
39

A balance of outdoor and indoor spaces in the activity centre creates varying air temperatures and
environments. Wind entry through door and window openings create natural ventilation which varies the
need for air conditioning at different times of the day due to natural ventilation and the number of people
present etc.
VRF/VRV air conditioning systems also benefit from being flexible and modular in design. Indoor
units come in multiple types and sizes making them suitable for most applications. For the activity
centre, the cassette type and wall-mounted air-conditioner are most suitable to be used according to
the various zones and spaces.
Besides that, more indoor units can be attached to the existing outdoor unit (provided the outdoor
unit has sufficient capacity) at any point of time. Thus, if the activity centre decides to renovate the
building spaces, the VRV system will still be compatible and fully functional.
Different types of internal unit can be connected to the outdoor unit via the VRV system, allowing for
flexibility in space design.
II. Flexible Design
Figure 5.2: Cassette
Type Air-Conditioner-
Thorough air flow and
area coverage and
suitable for larger
rooms.
Figure 5.3: Wall-
Mounted Air-
Conditioner- Smaller
area coverage and
suitable for smaller
rooms.
40

MS 1525:2007
Section 13a
Roomcomfortconditionisdependentonvariousfactorsincludingairtemperature,meanradianttemperature,
humidity, clothing, metabolic rate and air movement preference of the occupant.
For the purpose of engineering design, room comfort condition should consider the following three (3) main
factors:
• Dry bulb temperature;
• Relative humidity; and
• Air movement (air velocity)
In general, an individual feel comfortable when metabolic heat is dissipated at the rate of which it is produced.
The human body temperature needs to be maintained at a constant 37 +_0.5 oc regardless of the prevailing
ambient condition. The higher the space relative humidity, the lower the amount of heat the human body will
be able to transfer by means of perspiration
At normal comfort room temperature (23°C to 26°C), the acceptable air velocity would be in the region of 0.15
to 0.5 m/s. The indoor design conditions of an air-conditioned space for comfort cooling is recommended to
have dry bulb of 23°C to 26°C. The recommended design relative humidity is 55-70%. The recommended air
movement is 0.15 to 0.5 m/s. According to Department of Malaysian Standards, the maximum movement is
0.7 m/s.
41
Piping system can also be engineered to minimise or even totally remove the requirement for air
distribution ductwork, making them cost effective to implement and easier to install as the centre is
built on a small site, with minimal space for installation.
Also, any type & any capacity of indoor units can be connected to a single, same outdoor unit. This
conserves space and minimizes the effect on the façade of the building as it is placed on the roof of the
activity centre.
Only one outdoor unit
(compressor) is sufficient to
provide for all the indoor air-
conditioners. Placed at the roof,
the compressor is hidden from
sight at the rear end and takes up
minimal space.
III. Space Saving
Figure 5.4: Roof Plan Figure 5.5: Elevation
Compressor and
outdoor unit

Sophisticated controls enable the system to be optimised and allow users of the activity centre complete
control over their local environment, with no adverse impact on other areas served by the same
system. These controls can also be easily integrated into the buildings BMS control system as required.
Individual controls for indoor units & centralized zonal control is possible, allowing flexibility of
temperatures in each zone.
IV. Individual and Centralised Controls
MS 1525:2007 code 8.4.4: Off-hour control
MS 1525:2007 code 8.4.1: Temperature control
MS 1525:8.5: Piping insulation
ACMV system should be equipped with automatic controls capable of accomplishing a reduction of energy
use for example through equipment shutdown during periods of non-use or alternative use of the spaces
served by the system.
Exceptions:
• Systems serving areas which are expected to operate continuously; and
• Equipment with a connected load of 2kWe or less may be controlled by readily accessible
manual off-hour controls.
Each system should be provided with at least one thermostat for the regulation of temperature.
All piping installed to serve buildings and within buildings should be adequately insulated to prevent excessive
energy losses. Additional insulation with vapour barriers may be required to prevent condensation under
some conditions.
42

VRV can easily be related to as the “Rolls Royce” of Air Conditioning Systems. It’s a very sophisticated
technological air conditioning system, based on several principles:
A typical system consists of an outdoor unit (comprising one or multiple compressors), several indoor units,
refrigerant piping, running from the outdoor to indoors, using Refnet Joints and communication wiring.
Communication wiring consists of a 2 wired cable, chained from the outdoor to indoors in the activity centre
compound, creating an internal closed loop network that is an essential part of any VRV installation.
As for the Control, each indoor is controlled by its own wired control panel, while there are some possibilities
for wireless remotes (IR) and centralized controllers, enabling controlling indoors from one location in the
activity centre.
5.2.2 Principles of VRV
5.2.3 System Structure of VRV
1. Refrigerant only – where refrigerant is the only coolant material in the system (in contrary
to the chilled water systems, where refrigerant is used for cooling/heating the water that is
circulated throughout the whole system).
2. Inverter compressors that allow lowering power consumption with partial cooling/heating
loads.
3. Several air handlers (indoor units) on the same refrigerant loop / circuit.
4. Ability of modular expansion.
Figure 5.6: System Structure of VRV
43

This process is constantly occurring with
any change, performed in the HVAC
system. As described, the VRV system is
fully automatic, and regulates its power
consumption based on the demand
arriving from the indoor units and outside
prevailing conditions. User can have
influence on the desired indoor comfort
conditions, modifying: Operation mode
(on/off), Operation state (Cool/Heat/
Fan/Dry/Auto), set point temperature,
fan speed (high/medium/low/auto).
Controlling those parameters is the only
thing required for proper operation, and
the only thing that is required for proper
integration with the VRV system.
The system gets inputs from the user in all
rooms of the activity centre (e.g. desired comfort
temperature) and from the surroundings (outside
ambient temperature), and according to that data
itimplementsitslogicinordertogettothedesired
comfort conditions, utilizing optimal power
consumptions. This makes it more convenient for
all elderly and visitors in the centre.
Theabilitytoadjustitselftotheoutdoorconditions
is one of the main factors that make VRV systems
efficient, compared to the traditional water cooled
systems, based on chillers and fan coils.
At the beginning, the system is in standstill condition (everything is turned off).
Once a user turns one of the indoors “ON” by its local remote, the outdoor “gets noted” regarding it, and
starts working. At this point, it will examine the outdoor conditions (temperature), the operating indoor
requirements (operation mode, set point temperature), and will operate the compressor at the exact level,
required to comply with the indoor requirements.
When another indoor unit is turned on, the outdoor recalculates the requirements from all the indoors, and
will increase the compressor’s output, according to the required level of demand.
5.2.4 Operation System of VRV
Figure 5.8: Branch controller processes
the demand and supply between the
outdoor and indoor units.
Figure 5.7: Operation
system of a VRV.
44

1. The outdoor unit is located in the rear end of the activity centre on the flat roof; it is where the heat
from inside your home is dispersed.
2. It contains the compressor, condenser coil and a fan. The heat absorbed from the centre’s air is
transferred to the refrigerant and then pumped to the outdoor unit. As this heat is absorbed
and moved by the refrigerant to the outdoor coil, it passes through the compressor.
3. The compressor in your air conditioning system has the primary job of moving the refrigerant
throughout the system. This is important as we can then keep reusing the refrigerant to cool
our house. As the refrigerant passes through the condenser, a fan delivers ambient air across
the condenser coil causing it to cool.
4. As the process completes, the heat from inside the centre is dispersed to the air outside. The
refrigerant is then pumped back indoors and the whole process repeats.
5. Often there will be a separate ‘outdoor unit’ for each floor or pair of floors sized to match the load.
6. Compact design hence less space required on the roof:
• 2.9sqm footprint area.
• Dimensions (1.6mx1.25mx0.75m)
7. For VRV, it is flexible in system where any additional indoor units can be connected in future to
the same outdoor units provided there is spare capacity present;
5.2.5 Outdoor Unit
Figure 5.9: VRV outdoor unit. Dimensions are
1.6mx1.25mx0.75m
Figure 5.10: Outdoor units are
often placed on the roof of a
building.
45

Figure 5.11: Refrigerant cycle
in the outdoor unit.
The cooling operation Influenced by the number of operating (thermostat-on) units, capacity, airflow rate,
return-air temperature, and humidity of indoor units:
• Load on total system changes.
• Loads on every indoor unit are different.
Compressor Capacity Control
In order to maintain the cooling capacity corresponding to the capacity of evaporator and load fluctuation,
based on the pressure detected by low pressure sensor of the outdoor unit, the compressor capacity is
controlled so as to put the low pressure equivalent saturation temperatures close to target value.
In order to maintain the superheated degree in the evaporator and to distribute proper refrigerant flow rate
regardless of different loads on every indoor unit, based on the temperature detected by thermistors on the
liquid pipes and gas pipes, the indoor electronic expansion valve is regulated so as to put superheated degree
at the evaporator outlet close to target value.
1. The compressor pumps vapour refrigerants through the condenser.
2. The condenser changes vapour refrigerants to liquid refrigerants. As the gas/vapour works its way
through the condenser it begins to cool. The cooling process is because the air that is blown over the
outside of lines.
3. The expansion valve controls the amount of refrigerants going through the systems.
4. The evaporator turns liquid refrigerants into gas. This is where the process of cooling the indoor
room happens. The air blown through the evaporator comes in contact with the refrigerants, thus,
creating cool air.
5.2.6 Points of Refrigerant Control of VRV System
Figure 5.12:
Refrigerant
control points
46

Cassette type air-conditioners are one of the most modern designs of internal units. Discrete yet efficient,
these air-conditioners work just as effectively with the VRV system. Below are some properties of cassette
type air-conditioners.
1. The cassette units are extremely discreet with only the grille showing in the ceiling.
2. Air can be delivered in up to four directions, giving the room an even temperature distribution.
3. .Weekly timer allows you to plan your usage, helping you save on your power bills.
4. Cassette units are easy to clean and maintain.
5.2.7 Cassette Type Indoor Unit
Figure 5.13: 4-way airflow system of cassette air-conditioners.
Figure 5.15: Only the grilles of the
air-conditioner is seen as its body
is embedded into the ceiling.
Figure 5.17: Photo showing the air flow of
a cassette air-conditioner in a room.
Figure 5.14: Round flow of
cassette air-conditioner
Figure 5.16: Components and functions of cassette air-conditioner.
47

Figure 5.18: Elevator components.
Figure 5.19: Elevator air-conditioner operation system.
The main benefit of installing an elevator air- conditioner is the clean air that it provides. If air is sucked from
the elevator’s shaft straight into the car using a fan, the air sucked into the car may be filled with dust mites,
germs and bacteria.
With an elevator air-conditioner, air provided is much cleaner, because the cold air is the same air that comes
from the car itself. Not only that, the cold air that is produced from the air-conditioner also goes through a
layer of filter. This filtration removes particles that are harmful to the human body.
5.3 Lift Air Conditioners
48

Mechanical ventilation is an important part of any structure. It is responsible for the comfort of the users
when circulating through the structure. It is instrumental in cycling the air through the building, siphoning
stale and pungent air out of the compound and bringing fresh air in. Without proper forms of mechanical
ventilation, the users in the building will feel extremely uncomfortable and might even get cases of sick
building syndrome. Therefore proper mechanical ventilation systems are required for the comfort of the users
in the building.
There are many ventilation systems each serving different purposes but all vital in the role of keeping the
air in the compound fresh. All of these systems has a plethora of variations, each suiting a specific need or a
unique purpose. Such mechanical ventilation systems are
Wall Ventilation Fan
A wall ventilation fan is commonly used to ventilate an enclosed area or to remove a spread out smell. Different
variations offer different perks and disadvantages. Certain variations prevents rain from entering through the
ventilation fan, some are suited for load bearing walls and others for dry walls.
- Wall Axial Shutter
- Wall Axial Cabinet
- Wall Axial Panel
Centrifugal Fan
Centrifugal fans, like wall ventilation fans, ventilate an enclosed area. However, centrifugal fans ventilate on a
far larger scale than wall ventilation fans and may serve a separate purpose to pressurize an enclosure. There
are 2 different centrifugal fans, with different scales and each suiting different buildings.
- Single input centrifugal fan
- Dual input centrifugal fan
Ceiling Fan
Ceiling fans, unlike the wall ventilation fan and centrifugal fan, serve to ventilate both enclosed and exposed
spaces. This is the most common ventilation device due to its versatility and effectiveness. The variations of
ceiling fans differ in terms of the number of blades which increases the ventilation.
- Standard ceiling fan
- Low profile ceiling fans
- Energy star ceiling fans
- Dual motor ceiling fans
- Outdoor ceiling fans
6. Mechanical Ventilation
49

Exhaust Hood
An exhaust hood is used in the kitchen as a way to ventilate the smell of culinary activities. Due to most of the
smell coming from the stove, the exhaust hood is placed above the stove to catch the pungent fumes released
from the cooking. The different variations depends on whether the exhaust hood is connected to a ventilation
duct. It will either funnel the fumes out of the compound or separate the oil from the fumes and cycle the air
back inside.
- Ducted Exhaust Hood
- Ductless Exhaust Hood
50

The wall axial shutter is boxed and has louvres on the outside to
prevent external rain from entering through the fan. The fan is
of a propeller style for easier siphoning of air. The box casing of
the wall axial shutter allows it to be placed between load bearing
walls.
Used in in the water closet to siphon pungent air from the
cubicles out of the compound. This prevents the pungent air
from circulating back into the corridor of the structure. The wall
ventilation fans used.
The ventilation fan is used in the elevator cabin to ventilate the
cabin and prevent stagnant air from building up inside the cabin.
6.2 Wall Ventilation
Figure 6.1: Wall Ventilation Fan
Axonometric Drawing Diagram
Figure 6.3: Wall Axial Shutter Ventilation Fan
Dimensions
Figure 6.2: Wall Axial
Shutter Ventilation Fan
Figure 6.4: Air Flow Diagram Figure 6.5: Wall Ventilation Fan Location (In the lifts)
51

Used in buildings to cycle the air to keep it from stagnating.
The centrifugal fan can also be used to create a draft of air
to siphon out smoke for fire safety. The centrifugal fan is
located at the roof of the structure and the top of an elevator.
With a dual input centrifugal fan, the air is siphoned from
both sides which allows more air to be ventilated and it
will have a higher power when necessary. The physical
characteristics of the dual input centrifugal fan differs from
the single input centrifugal fan when it comes to the width
of the fan and the position of the motor.
Using exhaust fans in elevator for ventilation during
maintenance. The stagnant air inside the elevator can be
dangerous towards humans during maintenance. The
exhaust fans are also used for fire safety by pressurizing
the air. This allows firemen to safely escort people to safety.
The ventilation allows for a certain level of smoke and
fire control inside the elevator shaft. The operation of the
centrifugal fan can be controlled by firemen outside the
elevator shaft for emergencies during a fire.
I. Forward Curved Fan Blades
These fan blades are shaped in a
wheel and it curves in the direction
of the wheel’s rotation. The forward
curved fan blades are used as it has
a low noise level, small air flow and
has high increase in static
pressure which makes it ideal for
the structure.
II. Motor
The motor power and moves the
fan and adjusts the fans speed.
III. Vent
The vent channels the air from one
location to another
6.3 Centrifugal Fan
Figure 6.6: Dual Input Centrifugal Fan
Figure 6.7: Elevator shaft ventilation
diagram
Figure 6.8: Axonometric Drawing Diagram
52

MS 1525 code 8.4.5 Mechanical Ventilation Control
Each mechanical ventilation system (supply/exhaust) should be equipped with a readily accessible switch or
other means for shut down or volume reduction when ventilation is not required. Example of such devices
should include timer switch control, thermostat control, duty cycle programming and CO/CO2 sensor
control.
Figure 6.9: Centrifugal Fan Location (In the lifts)
53

Figure 6.10: Ceiling Fan – Curved Fan Blades for
cycling in both directions
Figure 6.11: Exploded Axonometric Diagram
Ceiling fans are used to ventilate a room or a space. It circulates the air within a space to keep the air from
being stagnant. The movement of the air keeps the space cooler and lowers its temperature.
The rooms and corridors require ceiling fans to ventilate the surrounding air to keep the locations from
having stagnant air.
The fan used is the Standard 3 Bladed Dual Direction
Ceiling Fan.
This ceiling fan is capable of blowing air downwards by
moving in one direction. If the direction is changed the
ceilingfanwillcycletheairupwardcreatingaventilating
cycle without excessive force of wind.
I. Fan Blades
The part of the fan used to move and
circulate the air with the motion of its
surface area
II. Housing
A box that stores the motor of the fan
which converts electrical energy from
the power into kinetic energy for the
motion of the fan blades.
III. Mounting Device
Used to mount the fan to the ceiling
and hold it in position.
IV. Fitter
Located at the center of all the fan
blades and is used to hold all the fan
blades together.
V. Remote Control Module
Located inside the fitter and is used
to receive any output from remote to
remotely control the functions
of the ceiling fan.
6.4 Ceiling Fan
54

Figure 6.12: Ceiling Fan Locations
55

A ducted exhaust hood is used to channel the fumes from the kitchen out of the compound. Unlike a ductless
exhaust hood, its physical characteristics consists of a ventilation duct at the top of the exhaust hood.
The kitchen requires an exhaust hood over the stove to absorb pungent fumes and to restrict it from cycling
throughout the rest of the compound.
6.5 Exhaust hood
I. Capture Panel
Used in the exhaust hood to capture
rising fumes from the stove
during cooking.
II. Grease Filters
Used to filter out grease and oil in
the fumes captured by the Capture
Panel and separate it from the
rest of the fumes
III. Fan
The fan is used to forcibly siphon the
fumes through the air duct and out of
the compound
IV. Air Ventilation Duct
An intermediary between the
Exhaust Hood and the outside of the
compound that acts as a funnel for the
gasses.
Figure 6.13: Ducted
Exhaust Hood
Figure 6.14: Exhaust Hood
Axonometric Drawing
Diagram
MS1525 Code 8.6 Air Handing Duct System Insulation
All Ducts, plenums and enclosures installed in or on buildings should be adequately insulated to prevent
excessive energy losses. Additional insulation with vapor barriers may be required to prevent condensation
under some conditions.
Exceptions:
Duct insulation is not required in the following cases:
a. Where the design temperature differential between air in the duct and the surrounding air is
8c or less provided that the duct is within air conditioned space
b. When heat gain or loss of the ducts, without insulation, will not increase the energy
requirements of the building.
c. Within ACMV equipment.
d. Exhaust air ducts subject to qualification as in 8.6 items a.
56

Figure 6.15: Exhaust Hood Location
57

Mechanical Transportations System is a platform or cabin to transport loads or passengers up and down from
one level of a building to another. There are several types of mechanical transportation system which includes
elevators and escalators. These systems are generally powered by electric motors that eithers drive traction
cables or counterweight systems such as hoist, or pump hydraulic fluid to raise a cylindrical piston like a jack.
Mechanical Transportation System is a system where it is needed in most modern buildings for users to travel
vertically from one floor to another. It is also a huge help to the disabled and elderlies.According to UBBL
1984 – Clause 124 [ ACT 133 ], any building that exceeds 4 storeys and above or below the main access must
provide a elevator, or less when wheelchair movement. The minimum standard of service for one lift is each
four storeys, with a maximum walking distance of 45m to the lift lobby. For all buildings, elevators should be
placed at the source of traffic flow, which means providing easy means of access to all building users. Elevator
performance are classified according to several factors, such as:
• Acceleration
• Retardation
• Stability of speed and performance with variations of car loads.
There are two different drive systems for lifts:
1. Hydraulic Elevators
a. Conventional Hydraulic Elevators
b. Hole-less Hydraulic Elevators
c. Roped Hydraulic Elevators
2. Traction Elevators
a. Geared Traction Elevators
b. Gear-less Traction Elevtors
c. Machine-Room-Less Elevators
7. Mechanical Transportation
58

The elevator that we had chosen for this building is machine-room-less elevator ( MRL Elevator ). MRL
is considered as a new product which were introduced by the elevator industry. Application of MRL in
construction compared to normal standard elevator is important as it will affect the design of elevator
hoistway and equipment room.
Machine-room-less elevator is a result of the new technology that allows huge reduction in the size
of the electric motors used in traction elevators. The newly designed permanent magnet motors, known as
PMM, allows the manufacturers to locate to identify the machines, thus abolishing the need for a machine
room, which was the main component for normal traction elevator.
We had proposed MRL as our elevator due to several advantages, as stated below:
• Save an estimated amount of 70% - 80% energy, compared to hydraulic elevators. The power feeders
are reduced due to the more efficient design and counter-balancing which were provided with the
traction elevators.
• Environmental-friendly. MRL elevators decreases cost and environmental concerns, as compared to
buried hydraulic elevator that will cause groundwater pollution. By using MRL elevator, all these
issues will be prevented as MRL elevator is a traction elevator with all its components above ground.
• Superior performance. MRL elevator uses a gearless traction type machine, which effects the
superior performance and ride quality compared to hydraulic elevators. It can also operate in a
faster speed, while increasing the perception of quality over a conventional hydraulic elevator.
• Quiet. MRL elevator contains minimal noise pollution as compared to normal elevators, which is
qvery suitable to be places in the centre for elderly.
• MRL elevators uses less space as compared to normal traction elevator as no machine room is required.
• MRL elevator have higher standby power requirements compared to other elevator systems as the
other elevators uses more power when not in use.
7.2 Machine-Room-less Elevator
59

7.2.3 Components of System
Figure 7.1: Schematic Diagram of Nexiez- MRL
TBrand: Mitsubishi Electric
Name of Product: NEXIEZ – MRL
Type: Machine-room-less System
Size: Number of persons 6-21
Rated Capacity ( kg ) 450 – 1600
Technology The machine-room-less elevator is a result of our technological such as slim-form
gearless traction machine with permanent magnet ( PM ) motor or a significant
reduction in the size of the devices ; installing all traction equipment in the hoistway.
Thus, overhead machine was eliminated and required space for elevator installation
was minimized. It gives more freedom of building layout to architects.
7.2.2 Product Information
60

The shaft, or known as hoistway, is the vertical
passageway for the car and counterweights. On
the sidewalls, there are car guide rails and certain
mechanical and electrical auxiliaries of the
control machine. At the bottom of the hoistway
are the car and counterweight buffer, while on
top of the platform is where the machine compact
machine, or known as traction machine, where
MRL elevators uses permanent motor ( PM )
rests. The permanent motor supplies energy to
the elevator
The car is the main machine that carries the
passengers and stuff. The building’s prestige
depends on the design of the elevator car. The car
is guided in its vertical travel in the hoistway. It
is provided with safety doors, operating-control
equipment, floor- level indicators, lighting,
emergency exits, smoke detector and ventilation.
Counterweight are made up of cut steel plates,
which were stacked in a frame that is attached to
the opposite side of the cables, where the car were
attached. It is guided in its travel up and down the
hoistway by two guide rails, that were normally
installed on the back wall of the hoistway. Its
weigh equals that of the empty car plus 40% of
the rated live load. It is used to provide sufficient
traction to the sheave for car-lifting.
I. Hoistway
II. Car
III. Counterweight
UBBL 1984 – Clause 153 [ ACT 133 ]
( 1 ) Smoke detector must be present at all lift lobbies
( 2 ) A lift that does not open into a smoke lobby shall not use opening devices controlled by light
or photo – detectors unless a force close feature is installed which after 30 seconds of any
interruption of the beam, causes the door to close within a preset time.
Figure 7.2: Example of Hoistway
Figure 7.3: Example of car
Figure 7.4: Example of counterweight
61

Counterweight are made up of cut steel plates,
which were stacked in a frame that is attached to
the opposite side of the cables, where the car were
attached. It is guided in its travel up and down the
hoistway by two guide rails, that were normally
installed on the back wall of the hoistway. Its
weigh equals that of the empty car plus 40% of
the rated live load. It is used to provide sufficient
traction to the sheave for car-lifting.
IV. Permanent Magnet
Figure 7.5: Example of Permanent Magnet
62

Figure 7.6: Mistubishi
Emergency Landing Device
Figure 7.8: Firefighters’ Emergency Operation (FE)
Figure 7.7: Operation by
Emegency Power Source
(OEPS)
Figure 7.9: Fire Emergency Return (FER)
In case of emergency, these are operation of the elevator.
Upon power failure, the car will automatically moves to the nearest floor using a rechargeable battery to
facilitate the safe evacuation of passengers. Upon power failure, predetermined car uses a building’s emergency
power supply to move to a specified floor and open the doors for passengers to evacuate.
When a key switch or a building’s fire alarm is activated, all cars immediately return to a specified floor and
open the doors to facilitate the safe evacuation of passengers. When the fire operation switch is activated,
the car immediately returns to a predetermined floor. The car then responds only to car calls which facilitate
firefighting and rescue operations.
7.2.4 Operation of System
UBBL 1984 – Clause 154 [ ACT 133 ]
( 1 ) During the event of a power failure, all lifts shall return in sequence directly to the
designated floor, commencing with fire lifts, without answering any car or landing calls and
park with the door open.
63

Figure 7.10: Placement of elevators in Ground Floor Plan and First Floor Plan
64

8. Conclusion
65
When people enter a particular building, they will normally be aware of their surroundings on aesthetics,
scale or the atmosphere. However, people often neglect the intricate utilities and services that run within
the building. They forget that it is these services that provide their needs, comfort and safety. These are the
services proposed for the chosen elderly center.
The active fire protection system consists of many different components that works together to react quickly
and appropriately if when a fire breaks out. It is composed of detectors, triggers, communication systems and
fire response systems. These appliances help identify, notify, evacuate and resolve the fire in rapid succession.
The passive fire protection system however, aims to carefully prevent a fire. It is considered before the building
is built as the building materials as well as architectural components are involved in fire prevention. If a fire
breaks out, the passive fire protection system protects the inhabitants with a clear evacuation plan. It has
to relay instructions as to how to evacuate through exit signs as well as to provide an escape route and an
assembly point.
As Malaysia has a warm and humid climate, the users are typically of old age and could not cope with the hot
weather. Thus, an air-conditioning system is crucial in providing comfort for the inhabitants. A VRV system
is proposed as it is centralised at the same time can control areas individually. This makes it energy efficient,
space saving and flexible.
The chosen building has a unique characteristic of being very open. Therefore, mechanical ventilation plays
an important role in circulating air at the open spaces. Ceiling fans have to cool down the majority part of
the building while the exhaust hood removes gases and odours from the kitchen. Wall ventilation fans and
centrifugal fans have to be installed in the elevators to properly circulate air within the cores and cars.
As the building is an elderly center, mobility between two vertical levels becomes an issue. The building has to
provide elevators for convenience and the health of the old folks. A machine-room-less elevator is proposed
as it saves space without a machine room. It save energy and most ultimately, it is quiet, thus it does not
disturb the activities carried out in the center.
The services proposed for the chosen elderly center has to be suitable for the users residing in the building,
fulfil criteria given by the government and also respond respectfully to the surrounding climate. Even though
they are not noticed, building services is as important if not more than the other elements that make up a
building.

9. References
1) Association of Wall & Ceiling Contractors of B. C. (2003). Specification standards manual for the wall
and ceiling industry: Lathing, interior plastering, stucco, gypsum board, gypsum shaft walls, steel studs
and furring, exterior insulation and finish systems and associated wall and ceiling systems. Surrey, B.C.:
Association of Wall and Ceiling Contractors of B.C.
2) 2.1 Compartmentation. (n.d.). Retrieved November 15, 2016, from http://www.gov.scot/resource/
buildingstandards/2016NonDomestic/chunks/ch03s02.html
3) Sultan, M. A. (2015). Effect of Gypsum Board Orientation on Board Fall-Off in Fire Resistance Test
Assemblies. Advances in Gypsum Technologies and Building Systems, 10-29. doi:10.1520/stp158820150013
4) Designing Buildings Wiki The construction industry knowledge base. (n.d.). Retrieved November 15,
2016, from https://www.designingbuildings.co.uk/wiki/Fire_compartment
5) Uniform Building By-laws 1984 (G.N. 5178/85): As at 20th May 2003. (2003). Petaling Jaya, Selangor Darul
Ehsan: International Law Book Services.
6) Basic Fire Door Requirements. (2001). Basic Fire Door Requirements. Retrieved November 20, 2016, from
https://www.steeldoor.org/res/118.pdf.
7) Chapter 2 - MEANS OF ESCAPE. (n.d.). MEANS OF ESCAPE, 1-91. Retrieved November 15, 2016, from
https://www.scdf.gov.sg/content/scdf_internet/en/building-professionals/publications_and_circulars/fire_
code_2002handbooks/_jcr_content/par/download_4/file.res/hb_v3_ch2.pdf.
8) Stein, B., Reynolds, J., & McGuinness, W. J. (1992). Mechanical and electrical equipment for buildings.
New York: J. Wiley & Sons.
9) Types of Air Conditioning Systems: Window, Split, Packaged and Central. (2013). Retrieved November 24,
2016, from http://www.brighthubengineering.com/hvac/897-types-of-air-conditioning-systems/
McDowall, R. (2006). Fundamentals of Hvac Systems. Academic Press.
10) Joshua Lee, Student at Taylor’s University Sdn Bhd Follow. (2016). Building Services. Retrieved November
24, 2016, from http://www.slideshare.net/JoshuaLee68/building-services-64048449
11)M.(2010).VRV/VRFdemo.RetrievedNovember24,2016,fromhttp://www.youtube.com/watch?v=bjM_
Z6LPvYc
12) AM320FNBDEH/EU | Samsung Business UK. (n.d.). Retrieved November 24, 2016, from http://www.
samsung.com/uk/business/business-products/vrf-dvm-s/vrf-dvm-s/AM320FNBDEH/EU
66

13) BE Air Conditioning Ltd - air conditioning installation, service, repair & design in Sussex, UK. (n.d.).
Retrieved November 24, 2016, from http://www.beairconditioning.co.uk/air_conditioning_vrv.htm
14) VRV / VRF. (n.d.). Retrieved November 24, 2016, from http://www.ab3s.in/vrv-vrf.php
15) D. (n.d.). Variable Refrigerant Volume Systems [Pamphlet].
16) Air Curtain Doors - Air One. (n.d.). Retrieved November 24, 2016, from http://aironeinc.com/air-
curtain-doors/
17) Cassette air conditioners. (n.d.). Retrieved November 24, 2016, from http://www.build.com.au/cassette-
air-conditioners
18) Air Conditioning Systems. (n.d.). Retrieved November 24, 2016, from http://www.new-learn.info/
packages/clear/thermal/buildings/active_systems/ac/ac_systems.html
19) Machine-Room-Less (MRL) Elevators. (n.d.). Retrieved November 22, 2016, from http://www.buildings.
com/article-details/articleid/3076/title/machine-room-less-mrl-elevators
20) Stein, B., Reynolds, J., & McGuinness, W. J. (1992). Mechanical and electrical equipment for buildings.
New York: J. Wiley & Sons.
67

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