Complete guide to Air Handling Units (AHUs) covering components, functions, and a virtual site tour to help visualize how everything works together in a real facility. 🧩 Core Components Section Key Parts Function Mixing Box Dampers, actuators Mix return and fresh air to maintain ventilation balance. Filters Pre‑filters, HEPA, carbon Remove dust, microbes, and odors for clean air supply. Cooling Coil Chilled water or DX coil Reduces air temperature and humidity. Heating Coil Hot water or electric Raises air temperature for comfort or dehumidification. Humidifier Steam or spray type Adds moisture to maintain relative humidity. Fans Supply & return fans Circulate air through ducts; often VFD‑controlled. Sensors & Controls Temp, humidity, CO₂, pressure Enable automatic regulation via BMS/BAS. ⚙️ Functional Overview Air Intake: Fresh air enters through dampers. Filtration: Dust and contaminants removed. Cooling/Heating: Air conditioned to set temperature. Humidification: ...
📑 Medical Air Quality Testing – HTM 02‑01 Requirements 🔹 Frequency Quarterly testing (minimum) – Every three months, QC–MGPS must test medical air produced by the plant. Additional testing may be required: After plant maintenance or modifications. Following any alarms, contamination events, or suspected quality deviations. When risk assessments highlight higher vulnerability (e.g., humid climates, heavy usage). 🔹 Why Quarterly Testing Matters Medical air is classified as a medicine under HTM 02‑01. On‑site generated gases (via compressors or PSA systems) can occasionally produce out‑of‑specification air . Regular QC testing ensures: Compliance with pharmaceutical purity standards . Protection of patients, pipelines, and connected equipment . Documented evidence for audits and litigation defense. 🔹 Parameters Typically Tested Moisture content (dew point). Oil vapor levels . Particulate contamination . Carbon monoxide and dioxide levels . Odor and identity checks . ⚠️ Risks...