ARE 3451 - Design of Mechanical Systems

3 lecture hours 0 lab hours 3 credits

Course Description
This design course advances the design of building mechanical systems with an emphasis on HVAC system analysis, equipment selection, and distribution system design. Building upon prior study of psychrometrics, thermodynamics, and fluid mechanics, students synthesize engineering principles to design ducted air distribution and hydronic piping systems that meet performance, efficiency, and code requirements. Students apply engineering methods to calculate pressure losses, size ducts and pipes, analyze system curves, and assess energy performance. Computer-based tools are introduced to support building load calculations and system evaluation. Through applied design exercises, students develop integrated mechanical system solutions that address occupant comfort, public health, safety, welfare, and energy performance while considering constructability and stakeholder coordination.
Prereq: ARE 3401
Note: None
This course meets the following Raider Core CLO Requirement: None

Course Learning Outcomes
Upon successful completion of this course, the student will be able to:

Apply the basic principles of fluid mechanics to calculate pressure losses in ducts and pipes
Calculate building loads using the psychrometric chart
Apply the ASHRAE standards to HVAC calculations and design
Analyze various types of fans and pumps
Design different types and methods of air distributions systems
Design piping and duct systems in buildings
Evaluate different HVAC equipment, including compressors, cooling towers, condensers, evaporators, furnaces, boilers
Evaluate energy consumption in buildings
Define all heat gains and losses in a given building and calculate the total cooling load and heating load of a building
Identify the fundamental parts of building load calculation simulation software and perform a simplified calculation
Identify the fundamental parts of a mechanical design process and coordinate with the appropriate stakeholders
As part of their development of an Entrepreneurial Mindset (EM), students will develop and justify solutions that create value for identified stakeholders.

Prerequisites by Topic

Psychrometrics
Principles of fluid mechanics

Course Topics

HVAC systems
Psychrometrics
Ductwork design
Hydronic design
Construction process
Computer applications

Coordinator
David Grassl, P.E.

Announcement

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ARE 3451 - Design of Mechanical Systems