Washburn University Mechanical and Electrical Improvements

Challenge

Washburn University's Petro Allied Center, built in 1982, needed updated HVAC systems. The building houses a basketball arena, indoor swimming facility, locker rooms, exercise rooms, offices and classrooms.

Solution

The chiller system was replaced with a water-cooled, centrifugal chiller and new pumping system. The centrifugal chillers and variable flow pumping scheme provided a system with greater efficiencies and payback for the initial investment within five to seven years.

Construction was required to separate the air handling units from the new chiller while maintaining existing airflow paths. The chiller room was not accessible to an exterior wall without significant demolition of one of the building’s main entries. Other equipment room walls were shared with the indoor swimming pool locker room and two floors of classrooms.

Bartlett & West dismantled the chiller completely down to the compressor into multiple parts due to the small size and the weight limitations of the corridor that the equipment had to be moved through. After the chiller components were moved into the room, the chiller was reassembled.

Value

Washburn University’s students, staff and visitors now enjoy a more comfortable health center. The building boasts an HVAC system that meets 21st Century standards and will provide many years of efficient service. A comfortable, up-to-date athletic facility enables the University to attract and retain students, student-athletes and staff members for years to come. A strong local university benefits the entire Topeka community and enhances economic development