The Westbury Group, responding to the needs of a rapidly growing logistics sector in the UK, undertook a project to enhance air filtration systems in a large logistics hub.
This case study details the project’s challenges, solutions, and outcomes, highlighting our innovative approach to optimising air quality and energy efficiency within a demanding operational environment.
Background
The logistics and warehousing sector in the UK is characterised by its non-stop operation and a combination of activities that generate particulate matter.
Our client, who operate a substantial logistics hub, faced significant challenges in maintaining air quality crucial for the health and safety of staff and the efficiency of operations.
The Challenge
The client’s existing air filtration system in their Air Handling Units (AHUs) were inadequate, leading to several problems:Filter Collapse: (Pictured) Existing panel filters were collapsing due to moisture and particulate overload.
High Energy Consumption: The inefficient filtration system contributed to excessive energy use.
Space Limitations: The AHUs had limited space, hindering any substantial improvements.
Detailed Analysis and Approach:
Westbury’s team conducted a thorough assessment of the existing setup. The findings led to a multi-pronged approach:
Upgrading Pre-Filters: The collapsing filters were replaced with advanced, high-capacity pre-filters, capable of handling greater particulate loads without collapsing.
Innovative Secondary Filtration: A slimline, high-capacity secondary filter was introduced, (Pictured) fitting into the constrained space while significantly improving air quality. This as significant as another manufacturer had told the client this would not be possible. This fact underlines Westbury’s commitment to achieveing what others can or will not.
Improved Mounting Arrangements: The installation of adapted clips facilitates easier maintenance and filter replacement, reducing downtime.
Protective Air Intake Screens: These screens add an extra layer of protection, extending the life of other filters and enhancing overall air quality. Their design allows for easy removal and cleaning.
Implementation Process
Pre-Implementation: The facility struggled with failing panel filters and unprotected air intakes, leading to reduced air quality and a high maintenance requirement.
Post-Implementation: Enhanced panel and secondary filters were installed, using existing frames but with intakes, offering additional filtration and prolonging filter life.
Results and Impact
The implementation led to multiple benefits:
Improved Air Quality: The additional filtration stages significantly improve air quality within the facility.
Reduced Energy: The higher-capacity pre-filters result in lower energy consumption, aligning with sustainability goals.
Ease of Maintenance: The redesign of the mounting system simplifies the process of changing filters, reducing labour and downtime.
Cost-Effective: Using the existing mounting frames avoids the need for expensive AHU modifications.
Following the initial success, the solution was replicated across six more AHUs, leading to a plant-wide improvement in air quality and energy efficiency.
Long-Term Benefits
The project’s success is expected to yield long-term benefits:
Sustained Air Quality Improvements: Enhanced filtration ensures a healthier environment for personnel and better preservation of goods.
Ongoing Energy Savings: The efficient system contributes to reduced operational costs and aligns with environmental sustainability initiatives.
Reduced Maintenance: The ease of filter replacement and the durability of the new system reduce the burden on maintenance teams.
In Conclusion
This example of The Westbury Group’s innovative air filtration project represents a benchmark in environmental and operational excellence. Through a comprehensive approach addressing the challenges of filter collapse, high energy consumption, and space limitations, we not only improved working conditions but also set a precedent for sustainable operations in similar facilities.
Key to this success was the strategic replacement and upgrading of existing filtration systems and the introduction of high-capacity pre-filters, innovative secondary filtration, and protective air intake screens. These enhancements not only improved the hub’s air quality but also streamlined maintenance processes, reducing energy consumption. The use of existing infrastructure mitigated additional costs.
The project’s success extends beyond immediate improvements in air quality and energy efficiency. It demonstrates a proactive approach to employee health and safety, and a commitment to environmental sustainability, aligning with broader global initiatives.
The replication of this solution across additional AHUs within the facility shows both scalability and adaptability, setting a model for other logistics hubs facing similar challenges.
This project is a testament to how innovative engineering solutions can simultaneously address environmental concerns, operational efficiency, and employee well-being across the sector.
Reach out to Westbury today to discover how your staff can enjoy the benefits of even cleaner air.
The importance of embracing sustainability in all aspects of life is becoming more and more widespread. An area of particular interest is the workplace, where we spend most of our waking hours.
Often taken for granted, the quality of the air we breathe at work plays a pivotal role in ensuring our health and wellbeing. In this article we’ll take a look at how the combination of air filtration and sustainability can contribute to greener and safer working environments for everyone.
The Importance of Air Quality in Workspaces
Air quality within workspaces extends beyond mere comfort, it directly impacts our health. Poor air quality can lead to allergies and breathing difficulties such as asthma (or worse).
Additionally, it can negatively affect productivity and morale. Fortunately, employers are beginning to acknowledge the significance of clean air in maintaining a happy and healthy working environment.
What Do We Mean By Air Quality?
In simple terms air filtration involves eliminating pollutants and contaminants from the air we breathe. This is accomplished through a combination of filtration methods, along with mechanical and chemical processes.
Mechanical filters effectively trap particles while chemical methods help remove gases and odours.
The effectiveness of an air purification system is often evaluated based on its ability to capture microscopically small particles, including bacteria that are invisible to the naked eye.
When it comes to air purification, sustainability involves using systems and practices that not only effectively clean the air around us but also have a positive environmental impact. This includes considering the energy efficiency of filtration systems, the materials used in filters and the carbon footprint of the entire process.
Energy Efficient Filtration Systems
Traditional air filters consume a lot of power and newer technologies are focused on reducing this.
For example, incorporating advanced, more environmentally efficient design into filters can improve functionality, effectively minimising the energy required to move air through the system.
Eco Friendly Materials and Practices
The choice of materials for air filters is crucial for promoting sustainability.
Washable filters are quickly gaining popularity as they reduce waste and eliminate the need for new replacements. Moreover, there are now filters made from recycled materials, cutting costs, and improving efficiency.
The benefits of implementing them are clear. Firstly, they promote health, leading to reduced illness rates and increased productivity.
Secondly, they reflect a commitment to responsibility, which can enhance your company reputation. Energy efficient systems also result in cost savings, allowing you to reap the rewards of your new sustainable practice.
While the advantages are obvious, optimising air filtration systems can present challenges. The installation costs for systems can be high and there may be a need for staff training. Finding the right balance requires careful consideration and planning.
This of course takes time but it’s indisputable this investment pays rich dividends.
Looking towards the future of air filtration there is a clear trend favouring more sustainable and efficient systems.
With the increasing awareness of concerns, regulatory bodies may enforce more robust standards for air quality and sustainability in workplaces.
Westbury, as industry leaders in air filtration technology, keep a constant watch on such developments and are ready and able to comply with changes in sustainability regulation.
Incorporating sustainability into air filtration is becoming a major factor when choosing a supplier. By investing in environmentally friendly air filtration, companies can not only save money by enhancing the wellbeing and productivity of their employees but also contribute to the bigger picture of environmental sustainability.
As technology continues to advance, we can anticipate even more innovative solutions in this area, further improving our life at work and the overall health of our planet.
Reach out to Westbury today to discover how your staff can enjoy the benefits of even cleaner air.
For further advice on how filter test standards have evolved and for a clear & honest conversation about the points discussed above, contact Westbury today.
In today’s fast-paced workplaces, amidst pressing deadlines and high productivity, one critical element often goes unnoticed – the quality of the air we breathe.
Although it might not be as noticeable as office equipment and decor, the air we inhale within our workplaces plays a pivotal role in our health, well-being, and overall productivity. This fundamental aspect, often overlooked, is a core facet of Facilities Management.
In this article, we uncover the significance of air handling in the workplace, looking at how it affects not only the physical health of employees but also the efficiency and sustainability of businesses. Through this exploration, we shed light on the pivotal role that Facilities Management and advanced air filtration solutions play in cultivating healthier and more productive work environments.
Proper air handling is far more than just a technicality in workplace management – it’s a fundamental pillar upon which the health and productivity of employees stand.
Understanding ISO 16890 Testing
Air handling is a multifaceted process integral to various industries, involving the movement, distribution, and regulation of indoor and outdoor air. It encompasses ventilation, heating, cooling, filtration, humidification, dehumidification, and control of air quality. This comprehensive approach ensures that the air within a specific environment is of high quality, maintaining optimal conditions for the occupants or processes within that space.
This complex system of air handling caters to different industries in distinct ways, shaping their environments and operations in a variety of customised approaches.
Significance of Air Handling in Different Industries
Healthcare Industry
In healthcare facilities, air handling systems are vital for maintaining sterile environments and preventing the spread of infections. Proper ventilation and air filtration are crucial in places like hospitals, clinics, and laboratories, where patients, staff, and sensitive equipment are highly susceptible to airborne contaminants. Air handling systems help control pathogens and maintain a safe atmosphere for both patients and healthcare professionals.
Manufacturing and Industrial Sector
Industries relying on precision and consistency, such as electronics, pharmaceuticals, and food processing, require controlled environments. Air handling systems play a pivotal role by regulating temperature and humidity, ensuring dust and contaminants are filtered out. This is vital for maintaining the quality of products and preventing equipment damage, especially in cleanrooms and manufacturing facilities where even microscopic particles can disrupt processes.
Commercial Buildings
Air handling systems in offices, shopping centres, hotels, and other commercial spaces enhance the comfort and well-being of occupants. They regulate temperature, control humidity, and filter pollutants, ensuring a pleasant atmosphere. Energy-efficient systems not only create a better environment but also contribute to cost savings for businesses.
Education Sector
Schools, colleges, and universities benefit from efficient air handling systems to create conducive learning environments. Proper ventilation and air quality contribute to the health of students and staff, creating an atmosphere better suited for concentration and academic performance.
Data Centres
Data centres, housing sensitive electronic equipment, rely heavily on precise air handling. Maintaining an optimal temperature and humidity level is critical to prevent overheating and equipment failures. Air filtration systems are employed to keep out dust and contaminants, ensuring the continuous and reliable operation of servers and networking devices.
Hospitality Industry
Hotels and restaurants utilise air handling systems to maintain a pleasant atmosphere for guests. Proper ventilation and air filtration enhance the overall experience, ensuring that guests are comfortable and safe from allergens and pollutants.
By tailoring these systems to specific industry requirements, businesses can create environments that are conducive to health, productivity, and the overall success of their operations.
The impact of poor air quality on employees’ health and well-being
Poor air quality in workplaces goes beyond being a minor inconvenience; it profoundly affects employees’ health. Exposure to indoor pollutants like dust and pollen can cause allergies, asthma, and chronic respiratory issues. Allergies often lead to common symptoms such as sneezing and watery eyes. Inadequate ventilation hampers cognitive functions, impacting concentration and causing fatigue and memory problems. Long-term exposure increases the risk of severe illnesses like respiratory diseases. Uncomfortable air quality also elevates stress levels, affecting emotional well-being and job satisfaction.
Recognising these risks highlights the crucial need for proper air handling systems and effective filtration. Investing in clean indoor air isn’t just about health; it’s the foundation for a productive workforce, creating environments where individuals can thrive both personally and professionally.
Common pollutants found in indoor air and their sources
Indoor air pollution is a complex issue influenced by various factors. Understanding the common pollutants and their sources is essential for mitigating health risks and ensuring a healthy indoor environment. Here are some prevalent indoor air pollutants and where they originate:
Particulate Matter (PM2.5 and PM10)
Sources:Dust, pollen, pet dander, mould spores, and particles from cooking and tobacco smoke.
Health Impact:Respiratory problems, allergies, and aggravation of pre-existing conditions.
Health Impact: Cardiovascular and respiratory effects.
Volatile Organic Compounds (VOCS)
Sources: Cleaning products, paints, varnishes, disinfectants, air fresheners, and office equipment like printers and copiers.
Health Impact: Eye, nose, and throat irritation, headaches, dizziness, and long-term exposure can cause damage to organs.
Carbon Monoxide (CO)
Sources: Incomplete combustion from gas stoves, heating systems, tobacco smoke, and car exhaust in enclosed spaces.
Health Impact: Headaches, dizziness, nausea, and, in severe cases, can be fatal.
Formaldehye
Sources: Furniture, carpets, particleboard, plywood, and some cleaning products.
Health Impact: Eye, nose, and throat irritation, allergies, and potential carcinogenic effects with prolonged exposure.
Radon
Sources: Soil under buildings, especially in areas with high uranium content in the ground.
Health Impact: Lung cancer; radon is the second leading cause of lung cancer after smoking.
Mould and Mildew
Sources: Dampness, water leaks, and high humidity provide ideal conditions for mould growth on walls, ceilings, and carpets.
Health Impact: Allergies, respiratory issues, and irritation of eyes, nose, and throat.
Tobacco Smoke
Sources: Smoking indoors releases thousands of harmful chemicals into the air.
Health Impact: Respiratory problems, increased risk of cancer, especially for passive smokers (non-smokers exposed to smoke). Identifying and minimising exposure to these pollutants is crucial for maintaining a healthy indoor environment. Proper ventilation, regular cleaning, and using HEPA filters where appropriate, can significantly reduce indoor air pollution and its associated health risks.
The Role of Facilities Management
What is Facilities Management?
Facilities management is the multidisciplinary approach to ensuring the functionality, safety, comfort, and efficiency of the built environment – encompassing everything from buildings and infrastructure to people and processes. It involves integrating people, place, process, and technology to optimise the functionality of an organisation. At its core, facilities management strives to create an environment that strategically aligns with the organisation’s objectives while providing a safe and productive space for its occupants.
The link between Facilities Management and air handling
At the heart of facilities management lies the vital responsibility of managing indoor air quality through effective air handling systems. The connection between facilities management and air handling is paramount, especially in environments where the health and well-being of occupants are non-negotiable, such as healthcare facilities, commercial spaces, educational institutions, and industrial complexes. Facilities managers play a pivotal role in ensuring that indoor air quality meets required standards, creating an environment conducive to the health and productivity of the occupants.
Facilities managers play a central role in air handling, collaborating with HVAC specialists to design tailored systems based on building requirements. They oversee regular maintenance, ensuring filters, fans, and ducts are functioning optimally. Utilising advanced monitoring technologies, they track air quality parameters and adjust ventilation and filtration processes as needed. Additionally, managers stay updated on regulations and standards, ensuring compliance for a healthy indoor environment.
Achieving Cost Savings and Energy Efficiency with proper aid handling and filtration
Implementing proper air handling and filtration systems not only ensures a healthier workplace but also translates into substantial cost savings for businesses. By efficiently regulating indoor air quality, companies reduce the risk of employee sick days, increase productivity, and enhance overall workforce well-being.
Well-maintained filtration systems significantly prolong the lifespan of equipment and reduce energy consumption by optimising ventilation. Lower maintenance costs, reduced energy bills, and enhanced productivity collectively contribute to substantial financial savings in the long run.
Proper air handling isn’t just an investment in health; it’s a strategic move that pays dividends by fostering a healthier bottom line for businesses.
Westbury: Pioneering Air Filtration Solutions
With a rich history dating back to 1969, Westbury is an industry leader in the field of air filtration.
What sets Westbury apart is our customised approach to solving air quality challenges across diverse industries through our expertise in ventilation engineering. Our tailored solutions address these specific needs, offering businesses not just generic products, but precisely engineered systems.
By analysing the distinct demands of each industry, we deliver solutions that ensure optimal air quality and safety, with a commitment to client satisfaction.
For further advice on how filter test standards have evolved and for a clear & honest conversation about the points discussed above, contact Westbury today.
Westbury are delighted to confirm our recent award as supplier of air filters and associated products to the North West Universities Purchasing Consortium (NWUPC). After a rigorous review and tender process, Westbury has been successful in Lots 1 and 2 of the newly invigorated Facilities Supplies framework, which covers both air filter supply and associated fitting, maintenance, removal & disposal.
Westbury’s successful offering represents a continuation of a long-standing supply relationship that goes back many years and reflects our wealth of experience in the education sector. As a proud member of previous NWUPC frameworks, the renewal of the facilities agreement is seen by Westbury as the foundation for our continued presence in this sector and demonstrates our committment to assisting facilities managers to optimise their approaches to air filtration.
Thanks to our dedication and experience, we are proud to have been named as the top-scoring supplier in both lots of the framework and we relish the opportunities this will undoubtedly bring for us to collaborate further with existing and prospective stakeholders in universities across the country.
The NWUPC framework also provides the basis for many other purchasing consortiums across the UK and allows Westbury to demonstrate the ways in which we can add value for educational establishments from kindergarten right through to further education and beyond!
Contact us today to discuss how our experience can save you money, assist your net-zero ambitions and deliver the clean air that we all deserve.
Westbury will be exhibiting at the forthcoming Surface World trade show at Birmingham’s NEC on the 4th & 5th October 2023.
The show is a great opportunity for professionals from all aspects of the surface finishing industry to get together, share ideas and discuss the latest technologies in the sector.
In the past, the show has always been a hive of activity and this year’s show promises to be bigger and better than ever!
Westbury and its sister companyTotal Filtration will be exhibiting our innovative air & liquid filtration technologies on stand K10 across the two days.
Registration for visitors to the event is open now and free to attend. You can contact our process filtration expert Mark Longworth on 01282 410252 to discuss further – we’d love to know if you’re planning to attend!
Indoor air quality has become a growing concern in recent years as people spend more time indoors.
Properly specified and maintained Heating Ventilation & Air Conditioning (HVAC) systems can play a crucial role in ensuring that people and processes are properly protected. Air filtration within HVAC systems is critical in ensuring the air we breathe is clean, but how can users verify the performance of their air filters?
Understanding ISO 16890 Testing
ISO 16890 is the globally recognised standard for evaluating air filters used in HVAC systems. In 2016 it replaced the previous EN779 standard and provides users with a useful tool for comparing the filtration performance & energy efficiency of air filtration solutions.
The results of air filter testing against ISO 16890 are expressed in relation to particulate sizes (1 micron, 2.5 micron & 10 micron). This allows users to assess the efficiency performance of filters against particulate size and make straightforward comparisons.
Reputable filter providers will have access to an ongoing program of independent filter testing and should be able to provide ISO 16890 guidance on request.
Beware of misleading claims!
Despite the best efforts of industry leaders and filtration experts to implement ISO 16890 in a way which increases transparency for users, there remain many misleading claims within the air filtration marketplace.
Caution should be exercised where filter providers claim that additional approvals are required to deliver “compliance”. Any claims that further approvals or trade-body memberships are required are false and should be dismissed.
Similarly, any reputable filter provider should be conversant in the terminology of ISO 16890. Many users of air filtration products are still most familiar with the terminology of previous filter standards and our role as industry experts is to be able to talk both “languages”, for the benefit of air filtration users.
For further advice on how filter test standards have evolved and for a clear & honest conversation about the points discussed above, contact Westbury today.
Air filters are often “out of sight, out of mind”, however many users do not realise the enormous cost savings that are achievable through air filtration optimisation, including appropriate maintenance.
Maintaining your air filters is essential to ensure smooth performance of your heating, ventilation, and air conditioning (HVAC) systems.
1. Check the filters regularly It is important to check your filters regularly to ensure that they are not clogged with dirt and debris. Whilst visual checks can be beneficial in spotting any air bypass or incorrect fitment, because the air filters are removing particulate that is invisible to the naked eye, differential pressure should be monitored using manometers, magnehelic gauges, or similar. The differential pressure is the best way to determine when a filter is approaching the end of its economical service life.
2. Replace dirty filters Dirty filters can reduce the airflow in your system, leading to higher energy costs and reduced air delivery. Once your filters reach the end of their service life they should be replaced as soon as possible. Westbury can provide guidance for users on optimum change-out points as well as additional support on responsible and compliant disposal of waste filters. You can read more about Westbury’s licensed waste disposal services here.
3. Choose the right filter(s) Choosing the right filters for your system is essential for maintaining optimal performance. Not only should filter selection be appropriate for delivering the quality of air needed in your application, but also bear in mind that filters protect and prolong the service life of many other components in the ventilation system such as coils, dampers & ductwork. You can read more on selecting the right filter for your application here.
4. Schedule routine maintenance Routine maintenance is essential for ensuring the correct performance of your HVAC system and maximising the longevity of its components. Visual inspections should be carried out in conjunction with regular monitoring to spot any issues that need attention. You can read more about Westbury’s on site services including filter fitting, equipment servicing and ensuring regulatory compliance here.
Appropriate maintenance is critical in allowing your HVAC assets to perform at their best. A filter is always a small part of a larger system, but filters are a key component in providing protection for people and processes as well as offering straightforward opportunities for reducing costs and extending the service life of the whole HVAC system.
When it comes to selecting HVAC air filters, there are several factors to consider to ensure that you choose the right options for your application:
1. Filter Efficiency The first selection consideration is the efficiency rating, or the capability of the filter to capture particulate. The higher the efficiency, the more effective the filter will be in capturing smaller particles. You can read more about filter efficiency here.
2. Airflow Resistance Resistance to airflow is crucial factor to consider when selecting any air filter. Higher efficiency filters generally have a greater resistance to airflow, which brings with it increased energy consumption. Filter selection should also be considered in the context of the HVAC system as a whole, to ensure that the fan and other components can deliver sufficient quantities of air, allowing for the resistance to airflow that the filter(s) present.
The ideal filter selection should deliver a low resistance to airflow to minimise energy costs. A filter that can maintain low resistance for a long period of time, will deliver the lowest costs of operation. You can read more about minimising life cycle costs by clicking here.
3. Particle Size The size of the particulate that the filters will be exposed to should also be considered when selecting air filters – different filters are designed to capture specific particle sizes. In many cases a multi-stage approach is preferred, with coarse pre-filters removing large particulate and higher efficiency secondary filters positioned downstream to remove finer particulate.
4. Environmental Factors Local environmental factors, such as the concentration of particulates and proximity to sources of air contamination should also be considered when selecting an air filter. It is important to remember that these factors are variable and will be influenced by factors such as seasonal changes, nearby construction works, time of day, etc. This should be considered when selecting filtration and planning appropriate maintenance regimes.
Taking these factors into account demonstrates that appropriate filter selection is vital for achieving and maintaining appropriate air quality and optimal system performance. Consideration of filter efficiency, airflow resistance, particulate size and environmental conditions will all be important. The correct selections in the balance of these considerations will ensure that your systems can operate efficiently and effectively to recover lost revenues, reduce costs and deliver improved efficiencies.
Contact Westbury today to arrange for a FREE of charge site survey to assess how your systems can be optimised.
