Project Title: HVAC Design for Sãn Paolo Brazil Library
Project Summary: This team’s goal was to design an HVAC system for a new public library in São Paulo, Brazil. Keeping within a $5 million mechanical budget, they aimed to deliver an energy efficient, ASHRAE-compliant system with a minimum 30-year service life. A life cycle cost analysis and weighted evaluation matrix informed system selection, prioritizing initial and operating costs, indoor air quality, comfort, and emissions. After evaluating multiple options, the team selected a central station air handling unit system with variable air volume distribution—served by an air-cooled chiller and air to water heat pump—for its balanced performance, durability, and low risk profile. Risk assessment using failure modes and effects
analysis identified duct leakage and thermostat misplacement as key concerns, which they found to be mitigated by robust design reviews, safety factors, and collaboration with industry partners. The final design includes six AHUs, VAV boxes, HEPA filtration, and a well zoned ductwork layout.
