Neuman and Guven (1994) describe a simulation that compared HVAC systems for a proposed laboratory facility in Southern California.
The [laboratory] research and development building is an important type with high demands for energy effectiveness and safety to be provided by the air-conditioning system. A simulation of different mechanical systems was made for a proposed 200,000 square foot research building located in San Diego. The systems compared are variable volume with reheat, constant volume with reheat, auxiliary air hoods, two-fan variable air volume dual-duct, and constant-volume reheat with individual fume hood fans. The variable-volume system with reheat was the best overall. This alternative is safe, reliable, and adaptable. The life-cycle cost of this system was $11 million compared to the worst alternative life-cycle cost for constant-volume reheat with individual fume hood fans of $18 million. The additional first cost of the variable-volume reheat system is paid back in energy savings in less than six months.
