Mastering Fan Filter Unit Control

BACnet and Networking Strategies for Cleanroom Efficiency

In the meticulous realm of cleanroom environments, controlling air quality is paramount. Price Industries’ Fan Filter Units (FFUs) offer a comprehensive array of control options for permanent split capacitor (PSC) and electronically commutated (EC) motors to ensure optimal performance, efficiency and convenience.

Understanding Controller Options

Price provides a range of control options for FFUs, catering to the diverse needs within critical environments:

• PSC Speed Controller: The PSC speed controller offers variable-speed control for nonprogrammable motors. Adjustable from minimum to maximum speed, this controller facilitates easy adjustments through an onboard dial or optional wall kit.
  
  
• ECM Speed Controller: For programmable high-efficiency EC motors, Price utilizes the low-voltage ECM speed controller (ECM SC). This controller allows manual control through an onboard dial or integration with a 0–10 VDC building automation system (BAS) signal. Priority-queue programming ensures seamless switching between BAS and local control.
  
  
• BACnet Flow Controller: Considered the premium control option for EC motors, the BACnet Flow Controller (BFC) offers unparalleled functionality. With multiple input options, including local onboard control, a 0–10 VDC BAS signal or BACnet system integration, the BFC provides comprehensive monitoring and adjustment capabilities. Its LED display and room-side accessible controls enhance usability. Moreover, when integrated into a BACnet network, the BFC offers exceptional visibility into FFU performance metrics.

Understanding BACnet and Networking Integration

Price’s BFC stands as a leader in FFU control options, especially when it comes to network integration. BACnet, the building automation protocol endorsed by ASHRAE, facilitates seamless communication among devices within a building. When integrated with the BFC, BACnet offers exceptional control and visibility of FFU performance.

Webserver and User Interface

Price goes beyond conventional controls with the introduction of the Webserver. This feature offers an easy-to-use interface with both remote and on-site access. On-site users can access controls conveniently via a desktop or wall-mounted tablet.

For off-site flexibility, the webserver provides password-protected remote log-in options. Whether it’s on your phone through a dedicated app or via a web browser on a PC or tablet, the BFC ensures accessibility and control anytime, anywhere.

Best Practices for FFU Control

Incorporating BACnet and networking integration involves strategic planning and adherence to best practices.

Strategic Monitoring

When integrating the BFC with a BACnet network, a strategic monitoring approach should be considered. Key metrics – cubic feet per minute (cfm) output, motor revolutions per minute (rpm) and filter status – can be tracked for a detailed understanding of the FFU system’s performance. This approach empowers proactive adjustments and enhances operational planning.

Optimized Network Size

In systems with multiple FFUs, daisy-chaining the units in a linear fashion while staying at 30 or fewer FFUs per router minimizes signal dropouts and eases troubleshooting.

Network Compatibility

It is important to ensure compatibility and seamless integration with the existing network infrastructure to prevent operational disruptions. The Price BFC is native BACnet, which does not require a gateway to connect to existing BACnet systems.

Price’s FFU control options present a robust suite of solutions tailored to meet the stringent demands of cleanroom environments. From efficient motor control to seamless network integration, these options offer the precision and adaptability required for maintaining optimal air quality and operational efficiency.

For more information on FFU controls, please visit our website or email our team at criticalenvironments@priceindustries.com.