Durango Public Library
Durango Colorado
Thesis Proposal
12/15/2015
This proposal describes the investigation of the relocation of the Durango Public Library building from Durango, CO to Miami, FL. The building is currently design to achieve a LEED Gold rating in the ASHRAE zone 5B but will be anazlyed in the new 1A zone. In additon to the new location, rooftop unit 2 will be changed to a dedicated outdoor air system. The new system will include chilled beams in the rooms it serves, a desiccant wheel to help with the high humidity, and a chiller for cold water. These new systems will be researched and analyzed to pick the best design for the Miami climate.
Remaining parts of the original system will have to be resized for the new required loads. These loads will be found through programs such as Carrier's Hourly Analysis Program (HAP) and also by hand calculations. The current system is set to heat the building for most of the year due to the colder weather but Miami's weather is far more warmer than Durango's. An energy report will be conducted to find the change in system perfomance with the warmer climate.
Electrical Energy and Cost Analysis
A method to track energy usage based of occupancy and time will be created. This will be done to better new buildings with similar systems or duplicate buildings with the intention to lower future energy costs. It will also serve as a way to track energy changes from possible additions to the library. Energy tracking will be done in the form of sub meters.
Structural Analysis
Research will be done to find proper building enclosure materials that will help protect against high winds and salt damage. Miami is prone to tropical storms and hurricane weather due to its location which is weather that Durango, CO does not experience. Proper protection against the elements is crucial to help maintain the building and lower operational costs. The materials to be researched will be for the siding, window protection, and HVAC equipment protection.