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The article focuses on commissioning fan-powered variable air volume (FP-VAV) boxes. It presents schematic depictions of three types of FP-VAV systems including series box fans, parallel box fans with supply air reheat and parallel box fans with return air reheat. It also suggests commissioning professionals to confirm during the construction phase submittal review process that the submitted FP-VAV are of the type intended by the design engineers.

The article discusses on how to conduct a trend log analysis during heating & ventilation (HVAC) commissioning. It states that functional performance testing (FPT) is the culmination of the commissioning process but does not allow observation under normal operating conditions and load fluctuations. To supplement FPT, trend logs are used in validating the operation of HVAC systems. Using dataloggers to monitor and record control input and output points can also pinpoint operational issues.

The article discusses some of the unique aspects of commissioning existing systems that are affected by partial building renovations. It cites the need to determine the scope of the heating, ventilation, and air conditioning commissioning when defining a commissioning program for the partial renovation of an existing building. The issue should be discussed with the building owners, designers and contractors during the commissioning planning process.

The article examines the advantage of performing an initial system commissioning process for an HVAC system for a building or facility. This is demonstrated by the experience of a building engineer who found himself troubleshooting an HVAC system installed four months ago. He realized that the problem solving process has been made easier because many of the more complex system variables can be eliminated as possible issues because they had already been tested during the commissioning process.

The article presents the author's opinions regarding the importance of building commissioning. The design and construction industry is facing problems in delivering standard, uncomplicated buildings that function properly. The industry does not have a good record in delivering facilities with complex systems, such as an integrated heating, ventilation and air conditioning system; life safety controls; etc. Building systems commissioning has an important role to play in the construction of new buildings. Contractors should implement the building commissioning process as they are responsible for delivering a building that meets the contract document requirements.