APR Review Center

BUILDING UTILITIES
Review for Electrical System

Ar. Aira Rowie Altovar-Muriel

WHAT IS ELECTRICITY?
a form of energy generated by friction, induction or chemical change,
having magnetic, chemical and radiant effect.
the motion of free electrons through a conductor electrons, protons
neutrons - William Gilbert, Father of Electricity
Sources:
storage batteries
generators
motors
rotary converters
transformers

Presentation by: Ar. Aira Rowie Altovar-Muriel

 SOURCES
BATTERY

are used to supply emergency lighting

circuits for hallways, stairways, exits and to
energize police and fire alarm systems and
certain types of signal systems.
DC
Primary - ready
Secondary/storage - charging

Presentation by: Ar. Aira Rowie Altovar-Muriel

 SOURCES
GENERATOR

for generating electric current

Alternating Current Generators or
Alternators – The bulk of electrical energy
utilized today is in the form of alternating
current, including energy for power and
lighting.
Direct Current Generators – These furnish
electrical energy for elevators, escalators,
intercommunicating telephone systems,
control of signal systems, and clock
systems.
Presentation by: Ar. Aira Rowie Altovar-Muriel
 SOURCES
MOTORS

for converting electrical

energy to mechanical
energy.

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 SOURCES
ROTARY CONVERTERS

for changing alternating

current to direct current
and vice versa.

Presentation by: Ar. Aira Rowie Altovar-Muriel

 SOURCES
TRANSFORMERS

for converting one voltage to

another, from lower to higher or
from higher to lower
Types (base on voltage level):
Step-Up
Step-Down
Isolation
Types (base on place of usage):
Indoor
Outdoor

Presentation by: Ar. Aira Rowie Altovar-Muriel

 SOURCES
TRANSFORMERS

Types (base on voltage level):

Step-Up - converts low
voltage at primary side to
high voltage at secondary
side

Presentation by: Ar. Aira Rowie Altovar-Muriel

 SOURCES
TRANSFORMERS

Types (base on voltage level):

Step-Down - converts
high voltage at primary
side to low voltage at
secondary side

Presentation by: Ar. Aira Rowie Altovar-Muriel

 SOURCES
TRANSFORMERS

Types (base on voltage level):

Isolation - can be step-up
transformer or step-down
transformer but the
primary and secondary
voltage values are always
equal i.e. turns ratio is
always

Presentation by: Ar. Aira Rowie Altovar-Muriel

SOURCES TRANSFORMERS

Presentation by: Ar. Aira Rowie Altovar-Muriel

 SOURCES
TRANSFORMERS

Types (base on place of usage):

Indoor - are usually a Dry type
transformer. These transformers use
air as cooling medium and usually
their primary and secondary side
connections are isolated. Dry type
transformers are installed in
buildings and close to buildings
because they are environmentally
safer i.e. less flammable.

Presentation by: Ar. Aira Rowie Altovar-Muriel

 SOURCES
TRANSFORMERS

Types (base on place of usage):

Outdoor - are usually an Oil filled
transformers. These transformers
use oil as cooling medium and are
designed to be utilized in outdoor
environments due to the chance of
oil leakage and spills that create a
fireplace risk, and must be protected
against environmental conditions.

Presentation by: Ar. Aira Rowie Altovar-Muriel

 SOURCES
TRANSFORMERS

Presentation by: Ar. Aira Rowie Altovar-Muriel

 TYPES OF CURRENT
ALTERNATING CURRENT DIRECT CURRENT

a current which is periodically a current which flows at a

varying in time rate and in constant time rate and in the
direction. It rises from zero to same direction.
maximum, falls to zero, reverses
its direction and again returns
to zero.
Advantage: Flexible (convert to
220/360/400V)
Disadvantage: surge/fluctuation

Presentation by: Ar. Aira Rowie Altovar-Muriel

 UNITS OF ELECTRICITY
UNIT OF QUANTITY UNIT OF ELECTRIC POTENTIAL

COULOMB – a coulomb of electricity VOLT – is the electromotive force or

comprises approximately 6.25 x 10 potential difference between two
18 electrons. points in an electric field which will
AMPERE – An ampere of current move a charge of one coulomb
represents a rate of flow of one between these points.
coulomb or 6.25 x 10 18
electrons/second through a given
cross section.

Presentation by: Ar. Aira Rowie Altovar-Muriel

 UNITS OF ELECTRICITY
UNIT OF RESISTANCE UNIT OF ENERGY

OHM – The resistance which will WATT-HOURS – the unit of energy

allow one ampere of current to flow or the capacity for doing work.
when one volt is impressed upon it.

UNIT OF ELECTRIC POWER

WATT – the unit of electric power or

the rate of doing electrical work.

Presentation by: Ar. Aira Rowie Altovar-Muriel

OHM’S LAW

The current, I, that will flow in a d-c

circuit is directly proportional to the
voltage ,V, and inversely
I=V/R proportional to the resistance , R, of
the circuit.
higher voltage = larger current
higher resistance = lower current

Presentation by: Ar. Aira Rowie Altovar-Muriel

ELECTRIC LOAD CONTROL

is the effective utilization of available energy by reducing peak loads and

lowering demand charge. The control devices and systems are referred to as
load shedding control, peak demand control, peak load regulation, and power
use control.

Presentation by: Ar. Aira Rowie Altovar-Muriel

 ELECTRIC LOAD CONTROL

LOAD SCHEDULING AND DEMAND METERING ALARM

DUTY-CYCLE CONTROL
in conjunction with a duty cycle
the installation’s electric loads are controller, demand is continuously
analyzed and scheduled to restrict metered and an alarm is set on when
demand by shifting large loads to a predetermined demand level is
off-peak hours and controlled to exceeded.
avoid coincident operation.

Presentation by: Ar. Aira Rowie Altovar-Muriel

 ELECTRIC LOAD CONTROL
AUTOMATIC NSTANTANEOUS IDEALCURVE CONTROL
DEMAND CONTROL
This controller operates by
also called “rate control”, it is an comparing the actual rate of energy
automated version of the demand usage to the ideal rate, and controls
metering alarm system, where it KW demand by controlling the total
automatically disconnects or energy used within a metering
reconnects loads as required. interval.

Presentation by: Ar. Aira Rowie Altovar-Muriel

MEASURING/READING ELECTRIC CONSUMPTION

KWH METERS

To measure energy, the factor of

time is introduced, such that;
energy = power x time
.A-C electric meters are basically
small motors, whose speed is Schematic Arrangement of
proportional to the power being Wattmeter Connection
used. The number of rotations is
counted on the dials which are Analog meter - reading is right to left
calibrated directly in kilowatt-hours. Digital meter - reading is left to right

Presentation by: Ar. Aira Rowie Altovar-Muriel

 BUILDING ELECTRICAL SYSTEMS

CIRCUIT
An electrical circuit may be defined as a complete
conducting path carrying current from a source of
electricity to and through some electrical device or load
and back to the source.
The two wire circuit, which is the most elementary of all
wiring systems, consists of a live wire carrying the current
to the various power consuming devices in the circuit and
a neutral or grounded wire which is the return wire
carrying the circuit back to the source of supply.

Presentation by: Ar. Aira Rowie Altovar-Muriel

 BUILDING ELECTRICAL SYSTEMS

TWO-WIRE CIRCUIT OPEN CIRCUIT SHORT CIRCUIT

most basic wiring broken/incomplete; condition resulting
system; live wire + conductors are from bridging any
neutral/ground disconnected to part of a circuit with
(return) prevent flow a conductor of low
resistance

Presentation by: Ar. Aira Rowie Altovar-Muriel

BUILDING ELECTRICAL SYSTEMS

SERIES CIRCUIT

is one in which the

components are connected in
tandem. All separate loads of
the circuit carry the same
equal current and the total
resistance, R, is the sum of the
resistances around the circuit.

Presentation by: Ar. Aira Rowie Altovar-Muriel

BUILDING ELECTRICAL SYSTEMS

PARALLEL/MULTIPLE CIRCUIT
is one in which the components or
loads are so arranged that the
current divides between them. Each
outlet has a live wire connected to
the current carrying wire of the
circuit and also a neutral wire or
grounded wire connected to the
return wire of the circuit. With this
system, the total current flowing
through the circuit is the sum of the
current flowing through each outlet.

Presentation by: Ar. Aira Rowie Altovar-Muriel

BUILDING ELECTRICAL SYSTEMS

BRANCH CIRCUIT
portion of electrical system extending from the final
overcurrent device protecting a circuit to the
outlets served by the circuit.
small capacity conductors which deliver energy to
lamps, motors, and other load within the circuit.

Presentation by: Ar. Aira Rowie Altovar-Muriel

 Branch Circuit
The portion of an electrical system
extending from the final
overcurrent device protecting a
General Purpose Circuit
circuit to the outlets served by the
A branch circuit that supplies
circuit
current in a number of outlets for
lighting and appliances

Appliance Circuit
A branch circuit that supplies
current in one or more outlets
specifically intended for
appliances

Individual Circuit
Distribution Panel A branch circuit that supplies
A panel for distributing power to other current only to a single piece of
panels or to motors and other heavy electrical equipment
power-consuming loads. Controls,
distributes and protects a number of
similar branch circuits in an electrical
system
Presentation by: Ar. Aira Rowie Altovar-Muriel
 GENERAL CIRCUITING GUIDELINES

1.General: Branch circuits shall be sufficient

to supply a load of 30 watts per square
meter (3 watts per square foot) in buildings
excluding porches, garages and basements.

2.In all but the smallest installations, connect

lighting, convenience receptacles, and
appliances in separate circuits. The Code
requires a minimum of 2 - 20 amperes
appliance branch circuit to feed all small
appliance outlets in the kitchen, pantry,
dining and family room.
Presentation by: Ar. Aira Rowie Altovar-Muriel
 GENERAL CIRCUITING GUIDELINES

3. Convenience receptacles in an area shall be wired

to at least two different circuits so that in case of
failure in any one of the circuits, the entire area will
not be deprived of power.
4. General purpose branch circuits shall be rated at
20 amperes wired with No. 12 AWG minimum.
Switch legs may be No. 14 AWG if the lighting load
permits.
5. Limit the circuit load for lighting and small
appliances on 15 amp and 20 amp circuit loads and
on 15 and 20 amp overcurrent devices respectively.

Presentation by: Ar. Aira Rowie Altovar-Muriel

 SINGLE AND THREE PHASE ELECTRICAL SYSTEMS

SINGLE PHASE ELECTRICAL SYSTEMS

For homes and small

Two-Wire Single Phase DC
commercial buildings: or AC
A single phase electrical
system can either be 2-wire
Three-Wire Single Phase
or 3-wire and composes DC (EDISON SYSTEM)
two hot legs and a neutral
wire.
Three-Wire Single Phase
AC

Presentation by: Ar. Aira Rowie Altovar-Muriel

 SINGLE AND THREE PHASE ELECTRICAL SYSTEMS

THREE PHASE ELECTRICAL SYSTEMS

For industries and large

commercial buildings: Three-Wire Three
Phase AC
The Three Phase AC
electricity is a Triple Circuit.
The lighting and outlet loads
are connected between any
phase leg and a neutral line.
Four-Wire Three-Phase
While machineries and other
AC
bigger loads are connected to
the phase leg only.

Presentation by: Ar. Aira Rowie Altovar-Muriel

COMPONENTS OF THE BUILDING ELECTRICAL SYSTEM

Parts of the Wiring System

Equipment - materials, fittings,
devices, appliances, fixtures,
apparatuses used in connection with
an electrical installation
Appliance - current consuming
equipment/fixed or portable
Fittings - accessory (e.g. locknut,
bushing)
Service - supplying of utilities
demanded by public
Transformer- main power line
Substation - auxiliary power station
where electrical currents is converted
or where voltage is stepped down/up

Presentation by: Ar. Aira Rowie Altovar-Muriel

Lightning Rod
Any of several conducting rods installed at the top of
a structure and grounded to divert lightning away
from the structure. Also called air terminal

Lightning Arrester
A device for protecting electric equipment from
damage by lightning or other high-voltage currents,
using spark gaps to carry the current to the ground
without passing through the device

Spark Gap
A space between two terminals or electrodes across
which a discharge of electricity may pass at a
prescribed voltage
 Service Conductors extend from a main power line or transformer to the
service equipment of a building
Servcie Drop
The overhead portion of service conductors extending from the nearest
utility pole to a building
Servcie Lateral
The underground portion of service conductors extending from a main
power line or transformer to a building
Service Entrance Conductor
The portion of a service conductor extending from a service drop or
service lateral to the service equipment of a building

Watt-Hour Meter
Measures and records the quantity of electric power consumed
with respect to time.Supplied by the public utility, it is always
Direct burial cable may be used for placed ahead of the main disconnect switch so that it cannot be
residential service connections disconnected
The service switch is the main
disconnect for the entire electrical system
Grounding Rod or Electrode
of a building, except for any emergency
Is firmly embedded in the earth to establish a ground connection
power systems.
The service equipment includes a main disconnect
switch and secondary switches, fuses and circuit
breakers for controlling and protecting the electric
power supply to a building. It is located in a
switchgear room near the entrance of the service To panelboards
conductors
The main switchboard is a panel on which are
mounted switches, overcurrent devices, metering
instruments and busbars for controlling, distributing
and protecting a number of electric circuits
COMPONENTS OF THE BUILDING ELECTRICAL SYSTEM

SERVICE ENTRANCE– the point of delivery

of electricity to a building by a public utility
company.

Presentation by: Ar. Aira Rowie Altovar-Muriel

COMPONENTS OF THE BUILDING ELECTRICAL SYSTEM

FEEDER CIRCUITS – A feeder circuit is a set of

conductors which extends from the main
switchboard to a distributing center (panel board)
with no other circuits connected to it between the
source and the distributing center.

SUB-FEEDER CIRCUITS – are line extensions of

a feeder, fed through a panel board or cut-out, or
from one distributing center to another and
having no other circuit connected to it between
the two distributing centers. A sub-feeder serves
to distribute power from the main feeders to
smaller local panel boards, called sub-panel
boards.
Presentation by: Ar. Aira Rowie Altovar-Muriel
COMPONENTS OF THE BUILDING ELECTRICAL SYSTEM

BRANCH CIRCUITS – These are small

capacity conductors which deliver energy to
lamps, motors and other loads within the
circuit.
PANEL BOARDS AND SUB-PANEL
BOARDS (also called CUT-OUTS) – These
serve to control and protect the sub feeders
and branch circuits.
UTILIZATION EQUIPMENT – These are the
lighting, power and motor loads and wiring
devices which are directly handled and
utilized by users.

Presentation by: Ar. Aira Rowie Altovar-Muriel

ILLUSTRATION OF BUILDING ELECTRICAL SYSTEMS

BLOCK DIAGRAM - A
horizontal single line
diagram of the building’s
electrical system from the
incoming service to the
utilization items at the end
of the system where the
major electrical
components are shown as
blocks or rectangles.
ILLUSTRATION OF BUILDING ELECTRICAL SYSTEMS

SINGLE LINE DIAGRAM -

When electrical symbols
are used in lieu of the
blocks, it is called a “one
line” or a “single line
diagram”.
ILLUSTRATION OF BUILDING ELECTRICAL SYSTEMS

RISER DIAGRAM - Is a
vertical line diagram of the
major electrical
components of the
buildings electrical system
presented showing the
spatial relations between
components.
EMERGENCY ELECTRIC SUPPLY

Emergency Systems – provide electric

power and illumination essentially for life
safety and protection of property during
an emergency, such as, electricity for exit
lighting, elevators, fire alarm systems, fire
pumps and the like.
Standby Systems – provide power to
selected loads not directly involved with
life safety, such as, water and sewage
treatment plants and industrial machines
for manufacturing processes.
EMERGENCY ELECTRIC SUPPLY

Battery Equipment – Central storage

batteries are mounted in individual racks
and always provided with automatic
charging equipment.

Engine-Generator Sets – are machines

intended to produce electricity and
composed of three components: the
machine and its housing (if any), fuel
storage tank and the exhaust facilities.
EMERGENCY ELECTRIC SUPPLY SYSTEM
electric power & illumination for life, safety, and protection of property
during an emergency (e.g. elevators, fire alarm systems, fire pumps)

USING BATTERY USING GENERATOR

Small emergency appliance connected Emergency system handled by a single transfer
direct to a storage battery switch which automatically turns on when it senses
Groups of emergency loads connected to power loss at its downstream location.
central storage battery through automatic Emergency system handled by multiple switches
device Emergency service totally separated from normal
Emergency equipment loads are entirely through its own emergency service entrance,
separate from normal loads and are coming from different transformers or feeders.
generally de-energized. The contactor is Same as above, but both service entrances supply
activated when it senses power loss. normal loads and each act as standby for each
other.
UPS - conventional (repair by whole)
Rack-type - 1 UPS per rack (repair by part)
Presentation by: Ar. Aira Rowie Altovar-Muriel
EMERGENCY ELECTRIC SUPPLY SYSTEM

USING BATTERY USING GENERATOR

Advantage: Advantage:
Instantaneous start, central unlimited kVA capacity and can last
installation or in small package units a lifetime
strategically around the building
Disadvantage:
Disadvantage: Noise, vibration, nuisance of
Limited duration (1.5 hrs) exhaust, maintenance, handling &
storage of fuel, longer start-up time
ELECTRICAL MATERIALS AND EQUIPMENT
are materials which allow the free
CONDUCTORS
flow of electrons through them.

Types of Conductors:
1. Wires – are single insulated conductors No. 8 AWG
(American Wire Gauge or smaller; for the English System,
it is the B & S Gauge or Browne and Sharpe Gauge. The
smallest size of wire permitted is No. 14.
2. Cables – are single insulated conductors No. 6 AWG or
larger; or they may be several conductors of any size
assembled into a single unit.
3. Bus Bars – large conductors which are not circular in
cross section and usually found only to supply the main
switch boards.
ELECTRICAL MATERIALS AND EQUIPMENT

CONDUCTOR SIZES CONDUCTOR AMPACITY

MCM (Thousand circular mil) - A Maximum operating temp that its
circular MIL is an artificial area insulation can stand continuously
measurement, representing the square heat generated as a result of
of the cable diameter (diam2) when the current flowing ad conductor
diameter is expressed in mils resistance. Heat generated is not as
(thousands of an inch). easily dissipated as it would be if
the conductor were free in air
e.g. 1/2 in = 500 mils dia or 250,000 (current rating higher than the
circular mils in an area conduit)
ELECTRICAL MATERIALS AND EQUIPMENT

TYPES OF CABLES
ELECTRICAL MATERIALS AND EQUIPMENT

TYPES OF CABLES
ELECTRICAL MATERIALS AND EQUIPMENT
INSULATORS
are materials which prevent the flow of
electrons through them.

Types of Wire Insulators:

1. Unjacketed - copper conductor covered
with (T) thermoplastic or (TW) moisture
resistant thermoplastic
2. Jacketed - (THHN) heat-resistant
thermoplastic or (THWN) moisture & heat-
resistant thermoplastic both with (N) nylon
jacket
ELECTRICAL MATERIALS AND EQUIPMENT
TYPES OF
INSULATORS
ELECTRICAL MATERIALS AND EQUIPMENT
CONDUITS
are circular raceways used to enclose wires and cables and are of metal or plastic (PVC).

Purpose of conduits:
To protect the enclosed conductors from mechanical injury and chemical damage.
To protect people from shock hazards by providing a grounded enclosure.
To provide a system ground path.
To protect the surroundings against fire hazard as a result of overheating or short
circuiting of the enclosed conductors.
To support the conductors.
ELECTRICAL MATERIALS AND EQUIPMENT
TYPES OF STEEL CONDUITS
Rigid Steel Conduits (RSC) - Heavy-wall steel conduits; use
same fitting (condulets) and threaded alike at joints with an
approximate thickness of 0.117mm.

Intermediate Metal Conduit (IMC) - use same fitting

(condulets) and threaded alike at joints with an approximate
thickness of 0.171mm; larger inside diameter for easier wire
pulling; lighter than RSC.

Electric Metal Tubing (EMT) - Thin-wall steel conduit; not

threaded but use set screw and pressure fitting and are not
recommended for embedding in concrete nor in hazardous
areas.
ELECTRICAL MATERIALS AND EQUIPMENT
OUTLES AND RECEPTACLES KINDS OF OUTLETS:
An outlet is a point in the Convenience Outlet or Attachment Cap -
wiring system at which the complete set-up which establishes
current is taken to supply connection between the conductor of the
utilization equipment. It flexible cord and the conductors connected
refers only to the box. permanently to the receptacle.
Lighting Outlet – is an outlet intended for
A receptacle is the wiring direct connection to a lamp holder, lighting
device in which the fixture, or pendant cord terminating in a
utilization equipment lamp holder.
(appliance) cord is plugged Receptacle Outlet – is an outlet where one
into. or more receptacles are installed.
ELECTRICAL MATERIALS AND EQUIPMENT
SWITCHES TYPE OF SWITCH – ACCORDING TO
INTENSITY OF USE
are devices for making,
breaking, or changing Normal Duty (ND) – intended for
conditions in an electrical normal use in light and power
circuit under the conditions circuits as in general-purpose
of load which they are switches.
rated.
Heavy Duty (HD) – intended for
TYPE OF SWITCH – frequent interrupting.
ACCORDING TO VOLTAGE
Switches are rated as 250V, Light Duty (LD) –intended to
600V,or 5KV as required. connect the loads occasionally,
such as service switches.
ELECTRICAL MATERIALS AND EQUIPMENT
TYPE OF SWITCH - ACCORDING TO 3.Wiring Switches – include all the relatively small switches
that are employed in interior wiring installations for the
TYPE OF SERVICE
control of branch circuits, individual lamps or appliances.
1.Service Switch – intended to disconnect all the
electric service in the building except emergency a)General–purpose switches - single/double pole, cut-off
equipment. This may comprise one to six properly circuits from a single point
rated switches that are assembled into a b) Three-way - from two different points (e.g. stairwell)
switchboard. c) Four-way - with 2 three-wire switches; from three or
more points
2.Power Switches d) Electrolier/Multi-circuit - lamps turned on alone or in
a)General –purpose switches – are intended for use combination with other lamps
in general distribution and branch circuits. e) Momentary contact - connect or cut-off a circuit for only
b) Disconnecting or isolating switches – are a short duration. The switch is provided with a spring so
intended for disconnecting or isolating circuits; used that it will return to its original position as soon as the
for circuits rated at more than 600 volts. handle or button is released.
f) Dimmer - a rheostat or similar device for regulating the
intensity of an electric light without appreciably affecting
spatial distribution.
ELECTRICAL MATERIALS AND EQUIPMENT

TYPE OF SWITCH - ACCORDING TO TYPE OF SWITCH - ACCORDING TO

OPERATION MECHANISM NUMBER OF POLES AND THROWS
Wiring switches may also be classified 1.Poles – that part of the switch which is used for
according to the operating mechanism as: making or breaking of a connection and which is
1. Rotary switch electrically insulated from other contact making or
2. Push-button switch breaking parts.
3.Toggle or tumbler switch
2. Throws - a single throw switch is one which will
make a closed circuit only when the switch is thrown
in one position. A double throw switch will make a
closed circuit when thrown in either of two positions.
ELECTRICAL MATERIALS AND EQUIPMENT
WALL PLATES OR FACEPLATES

These are coverings for switches and

wall outlets usually made of metal or
of phenollic compound (Bakelite).

Types:
1. Single Gang
2. Two-Gang
3. Three-Gang
ELECTRICAL MATERIALS AND EQUIPMENT
OVER-CURRENT CIRCUIT PROTECTIVE DEVICES
are devices whose sole purpose is to protect insulation,
wiring, switches and other apparatus from overheating or
burning, due to overloads, to faults or to short circuits, by
automatically cutting off the circuit.

FUSE – is a device consisting of an alloy link of wire with a

low melting temperature which is inserted in the circuit, in
such a way, that all current which passes through the circuit,
must also pass through this metal.
ELECTRICAL MATERIALS AND EQUIPMENT
OVER-CURRENT CIRCUIT PROTECTIVE DEVICES

TYPES OF FUSES
1. Plug Fuse - enclosed in porcelain cap in circuits 125V max, 10-30amp
2. Cartridge Fuse - enclosed in insulating fiber tube
a. w/ Ferrule Contacts - 250-600V; 5-6amp
b. w/ Knife Blade Contacts - 250-600V; 70-60amp
c. w/ Bolted Knife Blade Contacts - 600V; 800-6000amp
3. Open Link fuse - wire/strip of easily melted metal; disrupt violently only for less than 600amp;
place in cabinet
General Rule: Wire rated to carry definite number of
amperes should be protected by a fuse of lower or
similar rating
ELECTRICAL MATERIALS AND EQUIPMENT
OVER-CURRENT CIRCUIT PROTECTIVE DEVICES

CIRCUIT BREAKER
Tripping - disconnection of
is an over-current protective device designed to function as a current electrical supply
switch, or it can be manually tripped and thus act as a circuit
switch. It breaks a circuit with an automatic tripping device
without injury to itself.

GROUND FAULT CIRCUIT INTERRUPTERS

(GFCI OR GFI)
is an over current protective device that will provide ground
fault protection as well as function as an ordinary circuit
breaker.
ELECTRICAL MATERIALS AND EQUIPMENT
OVER-CURRENT CIRCUIT PROTECTIVE DEVICES

CIRCUIT BREAKER
Tripping - disconnection of
is an over-current protective device designed to function as a current electrical supply
switch, or it can be manually tripped and thus act as a circuit
switch. It breaks a circuit with an automatic tripping device
without injury to itself.

GROUND FAULT CIRCUIT INTERRUPTERS

(GFCI OR GFI)
is an over current protective device that will provide ground
fault protection as well as function as an ordinary circuit
breaker.
ELECTRICAL MATERIALS AND EQUIPMENT

PANELBOARDS – popularly known as “panel” or

“electrical panel”, it is simply the box wherein the
protective devises are housed from which the circuits
and bus bars terminate.

SWITCHBOARDS – are free standing assemblies of

switches, fuses, and/or circuit breakers whose function
normally is to provide switching and feeder protection
to a number of circuits connected to a main source.

UNIT SUBSTATIONS – (Transfer Load Centers) an

assembly of primary switch-fuse-breaker, step-down
transformer, meters, controls, bus bars and secondary
switchboard. It is used to supply power from a primary
voltage line to any large facility.
WIRING METHODS
KNOB AND TUBE WIRING – an obsolete wiring system
consisting of single insulated conductors secured to and
supported on porcelain knobs and tubes. When wires run
through walls, they are inserted into a nonmetallic fire-resistant
tubing called a loom.

RIGID METAL CONDUIT WIRING – is the best and most

expensive among the usual type of wiring. Its advantages are:
it is fireproof;
moisture proof;
it is mechanically strong so that nails cannot be driven
through it and it is not readily deformed by blows;
it resists the normal action of cement when embedded in
concrete or masonry.
Lengths: 10ft/3m
WIRING METHODS
FLEXIBLE METAL CONDUIT WIRING – Its installation is much
easier and quicker than that of rigid metal conduits. Unlike the
rigid conduits which come in short lengths of 10 ft. (3 M), flexible
metal conduit wiring comes in length of 25 ft – 250 ft (8 M – 83
M) depending on the size of the conduit.

ARMORED CABLE WIRING (BX WIRING) – consists of rubber

or thermoplastic covered wire protected from injury to a certain
extent from dampness by one or two layers of flexible steel
armor.

SURFACE METAL RACEWAY WIRING – the wires are

supported on a thin sheet steel casing. The raceway is installed
exposed, being mounted on the walls or ceiling. Metal raceways
must be continuous from outlet to outlet or junction box,
designed especially for use with metal raceways.
 WIRING METHODS

FLAT CABLE ASSEMBLIES – a field installed rigidly mounted

square structural channel (1 – 5/8” standard) designed to carry 2
to 4 conductors (No. 10 AWG) and will act as light duty (branch
circuit) plug-in busways.

LIGHTING TRACK – a factory-assembled channel with

conductors for one to four circuits permanently installed in the
track that will act as light duty (branch circuit) plug-in busways.

CABLE TRAY / OPEN RACEWAY – is a continuous open support

for approved cables. When used as a general wiring system, the
cables must be self-protected, jacketed types, type TC.
WIRING METHODS
FLOOR RACEWAYS – The NEC recognizes three types of
floor raceways:

Underfloor Ducts (UF) installed beneath or flush with the

floor. These underfloor ducts usually requires a triple duct
systemfor power, telephone and signal cabling.

Cellular Metal Floor Raceway – Found usually in office

landscaping, it is an integrated structural/electrical system
in a cellular metal floor.

Precast Cellular Concrete – made of concrete cells fed

from header ducts, which are normally installed in concrete
fill above the hollow core structural slab or fed from the
ceiling void below. The cells can be used for air distribution
and for piping.
WIRING METHODS
CEILING RACEWAY SYSTEMS – under-the-ceiling
raceways composed of header ducts and distribution
ducts separate for power and telephone cabling. They
permit very rapid changes in layouts at low cost and are
therefore particularly desirable in stores where frequent
display transformations necessitate corresponding
electrical facility adjustments.

PRE-WIRED CEILING DISTRIBUTION SYSTEMS – are

ceiling raceways that are pre-wired in the factory and
plugged in where required.
ELECTRICAL SYMBOLS
SOME ELECTRICAL REGULATIONS FROM PD 1096
Location of Poles and Clearances of Power Lines along
Public Roads:
Poles and transformer supports shall be located not
more than 500mm inside from the road right-of-way
or property line, and shall not obstruct the sidewalk,
pedestrian path and/or the road drainage canal or
structure, existing or proposed.
Primary lines shall have a minimum vertical clearance
of 10 m from the crown of the pavement when
crossing the highway and 7.5 m from the top of the
shoulder or sidewalk when installed along the side of
the highway or street in a highly urbanized area
Secondary, neutral and service lines shall have a
minimum vertical clearance of 7.5 m from the crown
of the road pavement when crossing the highway and
from the top of the shoulder or sidewalk when
installed along the side of the highway or street in
highly urbanized area.
SOME ELECTRICAL REGULATIONS FROM PD 1096
Clearances of Supporting Structures such as Poles,
Towers and others and their guys and braces measured
from the nearest parts of the objects concerned:
From Fire Hydrants, not less than 5 m.
From the Street Corners, where hydrants are located at
street corners, poles and towers shall not be set so far
from the corners as to make necessary the use of flying
taps which are inaccessible from the poles.
From Curbs, not less than 150 mm measured from
the curb away from the roadway.
SOME ELECTRICAL REGULATIONS FROM PD 1096
Open Supply Conductors Attached to
Buildings
Supports over buildings. Service-
drop conductors passing over a roof
shall be securely supported by
substantial structures. Where
practicable, such supports shall be
independent of the building.
SOME ELECTRICAL REGULATIONS FROM PD 1096
Conductors Passing By or Over
Buildings
Minimum Clearances. Unguarded or
accessible supply conductors
carrying voltages in excess of 300
volts may be run either beside or
over buildings. The vertical or
horizontal clearance to any building
or its attachments (balconies,
platforms, etc.) shall be as listed
below. The horizontal clearance
governs above the roof level to the
point where the diagonal equals the
vertical clearance requirement.
SOME ELECTRICAL REGULATIONS FROM PD 1096
Clearance of Service Drops
Service drop conductors shall not be
readily accessible and when not in
excess of 600 volts, shall conform to
the following:

Clearances over roof. Conductors shall have

a clearance of not less than 2.5m from the
highest point of roofs over which they pass
with the following exceptions:

Exception No. 1. Where the voltage

between conductors does not exceed 300
volts and the roof has a slope of not less
than 100mm in 300mm, the clearance may
not be less than 1m.
SOME ELECTRICAL REGULATIONS FROM PD 1096
Clearance of Service Drops
Service drop conductors shall not be readily
accessible and when not in excess of 600
volts, shall conform to the following:

Clearances over roof. Conductors shall have a

clearance of not less than 2.5m from the highest
point of roofs over which they pass with the
following exceptions:

Exception No. 2. Service drop conductors of 300

volts or less which do not pass over other than a
maximum of 1.2m of the overhang portion of the
roof for the purpose of terminating at a through-
the-roof service raceway or approved support
may be maintained at a minimum of 500mm from
any portion of the roof over which they pass.
SOME ELECTRICAL REGULATIONS FROM PD 1096
Clearance from the Ground. Conductors shall
have a clearance of not less than 3m from
the ground or from any platform or
projection from which they might be reached.

Clearance from Building Openings.

Conductors shall have a horizontal clearance
of not less than 1m from windows, doors,
porches, fire escapes, or similar locations
and shall be run at least 500mm above the
top level of window or opening.
SOME ELECTRICAL REGULATIONS FROM PD 1096
Service Drop of communication lines, when
crossing a street, shall have a clearance of not
less than 5.5 m from the crown of the street
or sidewalk over which it passes.

Service Drop of
communication lines shall
have a minimum clearance of
3m above ground at its point
of attachment to the building
or pedestal.
SOME ELECTRICAL REGULATIONS FROM PD 1096
No parts of swimming and wading pools shall
be placed under existing service drop
conductors or any other over-head wiring; nor
shall such wiring be installed above the
following:

a. Swimming and wading pools and the area

extending 3m outward horizontally from the
inside of the walls of the pool.
b. Diving Structures
c. Observation stands, towers or platforms
 APR Review Center

BUILDING UTILITIES
Review for Mechanical System

Ar. Aira Rowie Altovar-Muriel

 AIR-CONDITIONING
is the process of treating air and its simultaneous control of temperature, humidity,
motion and purity of air in a confined space.

AC STANDARDS FUNCTIONS/ELEMENTS
1. Cooling & De-humidifying - summer cooling: 24- 1. Cooling & De-humidifying
26°C and 50% humidity 2. Heating/Humidifying
2. Heating/Humidifying - water cooling: 21-24°C and 3. Cleaning/Filtration
30-35% humidity 4. Circulation
3. Air Motion - air velocity average of 15-25 ft per min
at 36inch above floor level
4. Air Supply - 5-7.5cu.ft. per min per person (non-
smoking); 25-40cu.ft. per min per person (smoking)
ASHRAE recommends 15-20 cu.ft. per minute (0.42 – 0.57 cu.m
per minute) per person for most applications.
Presentation by: Ar. Aira Rowie Altovar-Muriel
 AIR-CONDITIONING
METHODS OF COOLING AND DE-HUMIDIFYING
1. Passing air through cold water spray
(e.g. portacool)
2. Passing air through coils with cold
water
3. Passing air through coils with
refrigerant (direct expansion coils)
4. Passing air through combination of
sprays and coils

Presentation by: Ar. Aira Rowie Altovar-Muriel

 AIR-CONDITIONING
METHODS OF COOLING AND DE-HUMIDIFYING
1. Passing air through cold water spray
(e.g. portacool)
2. Passing air through coils with cold
water
3. Passing air through coils with
refrigerant (direct expansion coils)
4. Passing air through combination of
sprays and coils

Presentation by: Ar. Aira Rowie Altovar-Muriel

 AIR-CONDITIONING
FREON On January 1, 2020 Freon was banned by
is a non-combustible gas that is used as a The Environmental Protection Agency (EPA)
refrigerant in air conditioning applications. because it damaged the ozone layer.

Properties: high heat vaporization,

moderate pressure for low to high temp
range, non-toxic, incombustible, non-
explosive, non-corrosive
MECHANICAL REFRIGERATION
alternate liquefying and evaporation of
volatile liquid with low boiling point usually
Freon 12/11 during which it gives off and
takes heat

Presentation by: Ar. Aira Rowie Altovar-Muriel

 AIR-CONDITIONING
REFRIGERATION CYCLE
1. gas at normal temp and pressure
2. high pressure in a compressor which raises its boiling point and temp
3. same high pressure, vapor is piped into condenser coils
4. cooled by water or air to a degree below liquefaction point
5. condenses into a liquid state, passes to the evaporator
6. evaporator, pressure is relieved by suction stroke of compressor
7. boiling point of liquid refrigerant drops
8. evaporation into a vapor
9. water/air surrounds evaporator coil gives up heat in causing vaporization at low pressure,
reducing temp to temp refrigerant
10. cold air (Direct Expansion Method) free-blown into room/passed into areas through ducts
11. refrigerant sucked back to compressor and repeat cycle

Presentation by: Ar. Aira Rowie Altovar-Muriel

AIR-CONDITIONING

COOLING CYLE

Presentation by: Ar. Aira Rowie Altovar-Muriel

 AIR-CONDITIONING
REFRIGERATION
CYLE

Presentation by: Ar. Aira Rowie Altovar-Muriel

 AIR-CONDITIONING
TYPES OF AC SYSTEMS:
1. Central AC
a. Method of cooling; refrigeration
plant
b. Source of heating (e.g.
boiler/furnace)
c. Air Handling Unit (AHU) with
filters, pre-heater, spray, cooling
coils, and re-heater
d. Air Distributing Equipment
composed of ducts, fans, and air
outlets
e. M/AT controls

Presentation by: Ar. Aira Rowie Altovar-Muriel

 AIR-CONDITIONING
TYPES OF AC SYSTEMS:
1. Central AC
a. Method of cooling; refrigeration
plant
b. Source of heating (e.g.
boiler/furnace)
c. Air Handling Unit (AHU) with
filters, pre-heater, spray, cooling
coils, and re-heater
d. Air Distributing Equipment
composed of ducts, fans, and air
outlets
e. M/AT controls

Presentation by: Ar. Aira Rowie Altovar-Muriel

 AIR-CONDITIONING
TYPES OF AC SYSTEMS:
2.Split Type AC 3. Window Type AC

Presentation by: Ar. Aira Rowie Altovar-Muriel

 AIR-CONDITIONING
AC EQUIPMENT
3. Evaporators
1. Compressors a. Shell and Tube Heat
a. Piston Type/Reciprocating - up to 100 tons Exchanger - refrigerant is
b. Centrifugal - quieter, less vibration and expended into a shell
maintenance, better operating control enclosing the tube through
c. Screw-Type - 2 screws to compress which water flows
refrigerant b. Direct Expansion Coils
2. Condensers (containing refrigerant itself) -
a. Air-cooled - unit and packaged installed in spray chamber so
type AC that water sprayed into the air
b. Water-cooled itself comes into direct contact
i. Double Pipe with cooling coils, as window
ii. Shell and Tube type unit
iii. Evaporative
Presentation by: Ar. Aira Rowie Altovar-Muriel
 AIR-CONDITIONING
AC EQUIPMENT

a. Water-cooled
i. Double Pipe
ii. Shell and Tube
iii. Evaporative

Presentation by: Ar. Aira Rowie Altovar-Muriel

 AIR-CONDITIONING
AC EQUIPMENT

a. Water-cooled
i. Double Pipe
ii. Shell and Tube
iii. Evaporative

Presentation by: Ar. Aira Rowie Altovar-Muriel

 AIR-CONDITIONING
AC EQUIPMENT

a. Water-cooled
i. Double Pipe
ii. Shell and Tube
iii. Evaporative

Presentation by: Ar. Aira Rowie Altovar-Muriel

HEATING, VENTILATING, & AIR-CONDITIONING

COOLING AND DEHUMIDIFYING EQUIPMENT

*Ton of Refrigeration:
1. Water Sprays 1 ton (TR) (tonner) = 12,000 Btu
2. Cooling Coils TR = Area x 600
12000

HEATING AND HUMIDIFYING EQUIPMENT Residential: 14-15sqm/TR

Commercial: 16-18sqm/TR
1. Tempering Coils - steam; pre- Office/Restaurant: 10sqm/TR
heaters/reheaters *ERV - Energy Recovery Ventilator
2. Water Heaters - heat water in spray
chamber to add heat and humidify

Presentation by: Ar. Aira Rowie Altovar-Muriel

 AIR-CONDITIONING

AIR DISTRIBUTION EQUIPMENT

1. Ducts - galvanized sheet
metal/aluminum sheets; rectangular in
section, depending on the aspect ratio
(4/3:1 but not exceeding 5:1);
Circular ducts for high velocity system

Presentation by: Ar. Aira Rowie Altovar-Muriel

 AIR-CONDITIONING
3. Air Outlets
a. Wall Outlets
AIR DISTRIBUTION EQUIPMENT i. Vaned Outlets
2. Fans ii. Perforated Grills
a. Centrifugal Fans (Radial) - moving b. Ceiling Outlets
i. Plaques
air at high pressure
ii. Perforated Panels
b. Propeller / Axial Fans - for wall
iii. Perforated Ceilings
exhausts

Presentation by: Ar. Aira Rowie Altovar-Muriel

 AIR-CONDITIONING

CONTROL EQUIPMENT
1. Sensing Devices
a. Humidistat
b. Thermostat
c. Pressure Regulators
2. Actuating / Operating Devices
a. Dampers - control flow of air in form of
louvers
b. Control Valves - valves with variable
orifices moved by motors to present
smaller/larger openings directed by the
thermostat
c. Relays - electrical energy to
amplify/convert power of a thermostat
or other controllers so that resultant
force will be sufficient and adaptable to
operate valve/damper
Presentation by: Ar. Aira Rowie Altovar-Muriel
 HEATING SYSTEMS
TYPES OF HEATING SYSTEMS

Method of Air Method of

Type of System Heating Medium Heating Device
Handling Distribution

Mechanical Warm Air Air Furnace Ducts Registers

Steam Heating Steam Boiler Pipes Radiators

Hot Water Heating Water Water Heater Pipes Radiators

Water Water Heater Pipes Ceiling/Floor

Radiant Panel Heating Air Furnace Ducts Ceiling
Electricity Electric Heater Wires Ceiling

Presentation by: Ar. Aira Rowie Altovar-Muriel

 HEATING SYSTEMS
TYPES OF HEATING SYSTEMS
Mechanical Warm Air

Presentation by: Ar. Aira Rowie Altovar-Muriel

 HEATING SYSTEMS
TYPES OF HEATING SYSTEMS
Steam Heating Steam Heating
Air Vent System (One-Pipe Gravity Vacuum System (Two-Pipe Steam Heating
System) System)

Presentation by: Ar. Aira Rowie Altovar-Muriel

 HEATING SYSTEMS
TYPES OF HEATING SYSTEMS
Hot Water Heating Hot Water Heating
One Pipe Hot Water Heating System Two Pipe Hot Water Heating System

Presentation by: Ar. Aira Rowie Altovar-Muriel

 HVAC REGULATIONS
COLOR CODING OF PIPING (NBCP)

*refer to NBCP Mechanical Regulations

Presentation by: Ar. Aira Rowie Altovar-Muriel

 DRAWING SYMBOLS

HEATING & VENTILATING DUCTWORK

Presentation by: Ar. Aira Rowie Altovar-Muriel

 DRAWING SYMBOLS

HEAT-POWER APPARATUS

Presentation by: Ar. Aira Rowie Altovar-Muriel

SAMPLE MECHANICAL PLAN

Presentation by: Ar. Aira Rowie Altovar-Muriel

 ELEVATORS & DUMBWAITERS

ELEVATOR a platform that could either be open or closed and is Min Car Size: 1.50 x 1.80m
used for lifting or lowering both people and goods to Min Height: 8ft
upper and lower floors.

TYPES:
Electric - by DC motors
Oil Hydraulic -
raised/lowered by means
of movable plunger, rigidly
fixed to the bottom of the
car; cannot exceed 5 storey

Presentation by: Ar. Aira Rowie Altovar-Muriel

 ELEVATORS & DUMBWAITERS

TRACTION ELEVATORS
The main distinction between traction and hydraulic
elevators is how the cab is transported. The cab is
hoisted and lowered by traction steel ropes or belts
on a pulley system in traction elevators.
Traction Elevators in comparison with hydraulic
elevators
Uses less energy
Serve Mid to High Rise Buildings
Ride smoother
A counterweight is used in traction elevators to
balance the weight of the cab and its occupants. The
motor does not have to transfer as much weight with
this arrangement, making it far more energy efficient
than hydraulic systems.

Presentation by: Ar. Aira Rowie Altovar-Muriel

 ELEVATORS & DUMBWAITERS

HYDRAULIC ELEVATORS
Hydraulic elevators do not require overhead hoisting
machinery like traction elevators. Instead, a fluid-driven
piston positioned within a cylinder lifts a cab in these
elevators. Oil-based fluids have been used in the past,
however vegetable oil can be used instead to reduce
environmental effect.
Compared to Traction Elevators, Hydraulic Elevators are:
More affordable to install
Less expensive to maintain and repair
Better for transporting heavy loads
Intended for low-rise applications
Because hydraulic elevators travel at a slower speed than
other types of elevators – generally 150ft/min or less – they
are most commonly seen in buildings with up to 5 storeys.

Presentation by: Ar. Aira Rowie Altovar-Muriel

 ELEVATORS & DUMBWAITERS
PARTS OF ELECTRIC ELEVATOR
Shaft - vertical passageway for car and counterweights
Car - cage of light metal on structural frame, top member of which
cables that carry the car as fastened
Bottom Car Clearance - 1.30x1.60m (for maintenance; needs
waterproofing)
Ladder Up: 600mm width; 300mm spacing
Cables - lifting or lowering the car, usually 3-8 cables are placed in
parallel fastened to top car by cable sockets passing over mot driven
cylindrical sheave to the counterweights
Counterweights - rectangular blocks of cast iron stacked in 1 frame,
fastened to opposite ends of cables to which car is fastened
Material: concrete, steel, cast iron
Guide Rails - vertical tracks that guide car and counterweights
Machine Room - placed directly above shaft in which elevator
machine is housed; can be at sides or bottom. Contains motor-
generator set supplying the energy to elevator machine, control
board, and equipment
Elevator Machine - turns sheave that lifts and lowers car

Presentation by: Ar. Aira Rowie Altovar-Muriel

 ELEVATORS & DUMBWAITERS *Hoistway Door - needs to be fully
closed for the elevator to function

PARTS OF ELECTRIC ELEVATOR

Controls - push buttons, contacts, relays, devices,
M/AT to initiate door opening, acceleration,
retardation, leveling and stopping of car
Governor - controls speed, signals control panel
Safety Devices
Main Brake - mounted directly on the shaft of the
elevator machine. Elevator first slowed down by
dynamic braking action of motor and brake
operates to clamp brake drum, holding car still at
floor
Safety Switch - stop elevator automatically before car speeds become excessive; overspeed; speed governor will cut-off
power to motor and set the brake which should stop the car but if speed still increase, governor will actuate rail clamps
mounted at the bottom of the car one on each side
Electric Final Limit Switches - located few feet below and above safe travel limits of the elevator car; if car over travels,
either down or up, switched de-energize motor and sets the main brake
Oil / Spring Buffers - placed at the bottom of elevator pit, not to stop a falling car but to bring to a pratially cushion stop if
car should overshoot the lower terminal

Presentation by: Ar. Aira Rowie Altovar-Muriel

 ELEVATORS & DUMBWAITERS
METHODS OF ARRANGING ELEVATOR MACHINES, SHEAVES, & ROPES
1. Single Wrap Traction Machine - supporting 2. One-to-One Double Wrap Traction Machine -
cables pass over sheave in groove and connect to cables first wrap over traction sheave T, then around
counterweights; lifting power is exerted by sheave secondary/ idler sheaves S, and once more around T &
through traction of cables in grooves S to counterweights. Greater traction and used in
automatic high-speed installation

Presentation by: Ar. Aira Rowie Altovar-Muriel

 ELEVATORS & DUMBWAITERS
METHODS OF ARRANGING ELEVATOR MACHINES, SHEAVES, & ROPES
3. Two-to-One Wrap Traction Machine (Freight 4. Underslung System - used where elevator machine
Elevators) - 2:1 roping; mechanical advantage of 1:1 is located at the basement
= high speed, low power, low-cost traction machine

Presentation by: Ar. Aira Rowie Altovar-Muriel

 ELEVATORS & DUMBWAITERS
TYPES OF ELEVATOR MACHINES
1. Gearless Traction Machine - high speed, low torque electric motors

(AC/DC) shaft or which is directly connected to the brake wheel and to driving
sheave which is directly attached to the end of the motor. Elevator cables are placed
around this sheave.

Used in medium and high speed elevators for office and residential condominiums
of 10 or more stories; best for high speed and smooth quality
2. Geared Traction Machine - worm and gear between driving motor and sheave

This type is less superior compared to gearless since it has more moving parts and
requires more maintenance.

It has low speed and medium speed passenger and freight elevators and is best for
basement/overhead traction; speeds up to 1000ft/min (5m/s)

Presentation by: Ar. Aira Rowie Altovar-Muriel

 ELEVATORS & DUMBWAITERS
SYSTEMS OF ELEVATOR CONTROLS
1. Single Automatic Push Button Control - one call at a time,
uninterrupted trip

2. Collective Control - collect all waiting calls on trip up and calls on trip
down; stall calls until answered and automatically reverses direction at
highest/lowest calls; car remain at floor or last stop waiting for next call

3. Electronic Group Supervisory Dispatching and Control - not only

single elevators but entire bank of cars. During peak periods, all cars are
in operation; system shuts down automatically and successively as
number of passengers reduces and return to service as number of
passengers increases.
E.g.: Autotronic Elevatoring by Otis Elevator Company and Selectromatic
Elevator System by Westinghouse Electric Co.

Presentation by: Ar. Aira Rowie Altovar-Muriel

 ELEVATORS & DUMBWAITERS
HYDRAULIC TYPE ELEVATORS
1. Oil - aka Plunger Elevators; raised by movable
rod/plunger rigidly fixed to bottom of car. System
is hydraulic and operates like hydraulic
automobile jack (cars), using oil pumped from the
reservoir to raise the car
2. Conventional - common in low-medium rise
buildings (2-8 floors) and use a hydraulically
powered plunger to push elevator upwards
3. Roped - combination of ropes and hydraulics
4. Holeless - does not require holes to be dug for
hydraulic cylinder; absence of cables, drums,
motor-generator and penthouse; makes it
inexpensive and a choice for low speed, low rise,
no plunger pit difficulties and no penthouse
*Testing of elevator: Ampere
application
Reading and Load Testing
(mechanical equipment)

Presentation by: Ar. Aira Rowie Altovar-Muriel

 ELEVATORS & DUMBWAITERS
DUMBWAITER
a small elevator for carrying things, especially
food and dishes, between the floors of a
building.
Hoistway: 3x3ft or 0.90x0.90m
Car: 2x2.6ft or 0.60x0.75m

Presentation by: Ar. Aira Rowie Altovar-Muriel

 ESCALATORS AND CONVEYORS *Spiral elevator: take less
horizontal space

ESCALATOR

moving staircase used as transportation between floors or

levels in subways, buildings, and other mass pedestrian areas.
Specifications:
Width: 32" x 48"
Angle of inclination: 30deg
Length/Run: varies
Speed: 90fpm and 120fpm

Presentation by: Ar. Aira Rowie Altovar-Muriel

 ESCALATORS AND CONVEYORS
PARTS OF ESCALATORS INSTALLATION
1. Truss - welded steel frame supporting moving stairway
equipment
2. Tracks - steel angles attached to truss on which step rollers are
guided
3. Sprocket Assemblies, Chains & Drive Machine - provide
motive power
a. Emergency Break - on top of sprocket, stop safely in event
of break in chain
4. Driving Machine - provide motive power
5. Controller - contractors, relays and circuit breaker; located near
drive machine, emergency stop button wired to controller and
placed in or near escalator will stop drive machine and apply
brake. Key operated control switches at top and bottom newels
- will start, stop, and reverse direction of travel of stairway
6. Handrail and Balustrade Assembly
 ESCALATORS AND CONVEYORS
FIRE PROTECTION OF ESCALATORS
1. Rolling Shutter - shuts off well at given floor, preventing spread
of fire upward, actuated by temp and smoke relays
2. Spray Nozzle Curtain - closely spaced, high-velocity water
curtain to prevent smoke and flame from rising through well
ways
3. Smoke Guard - fire proof baffles surrounding well way,
extending downward about 20deg below ceiling level. Smoke
and flames upwards meets water curtain from sprinkler heads
surrounding baffles serving as smoke and flame detector
4. Sprinkler Vent - well way floor openings have duct on each
floor equipped with smoke pick-up relays which automatically
starts fans in fresh air intake, located on roof. Driving air
downward through well ways; dangerous gases and smoke are
drwan thru ducts and exhausted at roof.
 FIRE SAFETY PRINCIPLES
FIRE CLASSES AND GROWTH OF FIRE
rapid oxidation process accompanied by
evolution of heat, light, flame, and emission
of sound.

OXYGEN FUEL

HEAT
 FIRE SAFETY PRINCIPLES
ARCHITECTURAL FIRE SAFETY PRINCIPLES

1. Handling Fire Avoidance - reducing possibility of accidental ignition of

a. Fire Avoidance PREVENTION materials
b. Fire Growth Restriction non-flammable construction materials
c. Fire Containment avoid furniture which increase fire load
d. Fire Control electrical installations follow standard
2. Life Safety sufficient CO to avoid “octopus connections”
a. Fire Detection efficient fire planning and zoning
b. Smoke Control
CONTROL
c. Escape Provisions Fire Zones
High Fire Risk Areas (kitchen, boiler room)
High Fire Load Zone (gas sto room, linen closet)
Life Risk Zone (outpatient dept, service areas)
High Life Risk Zone (ICU, Surgical Ward, OR)
SAFETY Separate incompatible areas and provide access for
firemen
 FIRE DETECTION & ALARM SYSTEM
FIRE DETECTION & ALARM SYSTEM
provides audible and visual signals as a result of the TYPES:
operation of manual or automatic fire alarm initiating 1. Automatic System - detectors to trigger alarm system
devices such as a Manual Fire Alarm station, smoke 2. Manual System - visual detection and alarm trigger by
detector or heat detector of from other protective hand
equipment such as a fire sprinkler system a. Non-coded Manual Stations (no address; no exact
required for fire suppression fire location)
required for 4 storeys and above, and 1,000sqm area i. Station locations (source) not identifiable at
or greater control panel when manually triggered
ii. Annunciator Panel can be added to convert
GENERAL TYPES: each station to non-coded indicating zone
iii. If beyond 10 zones coding should be
Self-contained / Stand-alone considered
Building-wide system b. Coded Manual Stations (exact fire location) - each
manual is coded and code received at control
Sprinklers are required for panel, processed and transmitted audibly on
spaces having 2,000sqm or system gongs
more area
 FIRE DETECTION & ALARM SYSTEM
DETECTORS
1. Temperature Detector (most common) - thermostat
a. Fixed Temp Unit - trigger contacts when temp is reached
(one-time used; non-renewable with low melting alloy fusible
plug)
b. Rate-of-Rise Unit - activities when rate of ambient temp
differential exceeds predetermined amount. May be combined
with fixed temp unit in a single housing (e.g. automatic
resetting unit)
2. Photoelectric Detector (EWSFDD) - react to obscuration of light
beam by smoke; best applied where fire produce large amount of
smoke and gas
3. Ionization Detector (EWSFDD) - detecting ionized particles in
air; do not detect heavy smoke but few particles like alcohol and
plastic fires
4. Flame Detectors - Infrared (IR) and UV; industrial and highly
sensitive

*EWSFDD - Early Warning *smoke detector - condo & kitchen

Smoke & Fire Detection Device **heat detector - residential & commercial kitchen
 FIRE DETECTION & ALARM SYSTEM
DETECTORS
Combined Heat & Smoke Detector - both can be coded but are
big and expensive

Manual Pull Systems - pull station + junction box

Control Panel Unit (Combination Chime & Strobe Light) -

energize audible devices (bells, buzzers, gongs) upon receipt of
signal from detector will shut-off oil and gas lines to prevent fire
spread. Most units have emergency stand-by battery.
 FIRE DETECTION & ALARM SYSTEM
FIRE ALARM PANEL
1. Non-coded - continuous ringing
evacuation type, zoned, identifiable by
annunciator

2. Master Coded - common/fixed coded; 4

rounds of codes, set to ring bell 108 strokes
per minute; rapid evacuation frequently used
in schools
 FIRE DETECTION & ALARM SYSTEM
FIRE ALARM PANEL
3. Zone Coded - grouped by circuit into zones
which transmits to panel and ring zone’s code
on single stroke gong/chime; immediately
identifying station

4. Dual Coded - non-coded and zone coded

combination; identify coded alarm located in
maintenance office and continuous ringing
evacuation alarm for whole building
 FIRE SUPPRESSION SYSTEM
TYPES:

1. Elevated Water Tank (Overhead/Downfeed System)

a. Traditional Design of FS Systems utilizing gravity for

water distribution from an elevated fire reserve.
b. To supply a constant pressure of water in the
distribution lines
c. Store sufficient Water to balance the supply from the
demand
d. Minimal Reliance to Pneumatic Measures
e. Disadvantages are:
i. Eyesore
ii. Expensive
iii. Excess Load
 FIRE SUPPRESSION SYSTEM
TYPES:
2.Underground Reservoir with Stand-by
Power (Pneumatic)

a. Reservoir below Natural Grade Line

With stored water for Fire Reserve
b. Reliant to Pumps whenever needed
c. Pump must be Fuel-powered.

3.Up-feed Pumping System

a. Conceptually Functions as Overhead and

Underground Reservoir System
b. Provides a constant flow of water from a Reservoir
Fire Reserve to the distribution Pipes
c. Expensive
d. Reliable
e. Minimized Pump Errors
 FIRE SUPPRESSION SYSTEM
STANDPIPE AND FIRE HOSE SYSTEMS
STANDPIPE SYSTEMS
Standpipe - A pipe installed in buildings not as part of
the water supply but specifically for conveyance of Appurtenances
water in case of fire. Siamese Connection
Fire Hose - Readily Available near the Fire Exit Stairs Manifold System
supplied by the Stand pipe to be used by firemen as
they access the building suppressing fire.
FIRE SUPPRESSION SYSTEM

STANDPIPE SYSTEMS AUTOMATIC SPRINKLER SYSTEM

Wet Standpipe Systems - Wet Pipe - Mains and Distribution

Standpipe with Constant Pipe are constantly supplied with
Pressure/presence of water ready water.
to be used.
Dry Pipe - No water standing in
Dry Standpipe Systems - the distribution pipe except in
Standpipe without Constant occurrence of fire.
Pressure/presence of water.
 FIRE SUPPRESSION SYSTEM

TYPES OF SPRINKLER HEADS

Fountain/Upright
Bare Ceiling
Most Efficient Discharge

Pendent
For Fixed or Finished Ceiling

Flush
For Constricted Plenum Space
Prevention of spreading fire
 FIRE SUPPRESSION SYSTEM

SPRINKLERS

2.40 to 3.60 meters maximum typical spacing

of Sprinkler Heads depending on type of
Hazard of Occupancy.
3.00 to 4.00 meters bay distance of
Distribution Pipes Installed depending on
Hazard of Occupancy
Presence of Cellulose
Bulb at Sprinkler Heads open at 135 F to 160 F
Distribution should be Centered where a line is
present
Avoid bends to minimize retardation of
pressure
 APR Review Center

BUILDING UTILITIES
Review for Lighting & Acoustics

Ar. Aira Rowie Altovar-Muriel

 LIGHTING
LIGHTING
or illumination is the DAYLIGHT ARTIFICIAL LIGHTING
deliberate use of light to
achieve practical or
aesthetic effects.
Lighting includes the
use of both artificial
light sources like lamps
and light fixtures, as
Daylighting is the oldest method of The term artificial lighting
well as natural refers to any man-made light
interior lighting. Daylighting is
illumination by emitted from sources
simply designing a space to use as
capturing daylight. much natural light as possible. This including fire, gaslight, and
decreases energy consumption and electric lamps.
costs, and requires less heating and
cooling from the building.

Presentation by: Ar. Aira Rowie Altovar-Muriel

LIGHTING

Presentation by: Ar. Aira Rowie Altovar-Muriel

LIGHTING

Presentation by: Ar. Aira Rowie Altovar-Muriel

LIGHTING

Presentation by: Ar. Aira Rowie Altovar-Muriel

LIGHTING

Presentation by: Ar. Aira Rowie Altovar-Muriel

LIGHTING

Presentation by: Ar. Aira Rowie Altovar-Muriel

 LIGHTING

DAYLIGHTING METHODS
Exterior shading and control devices. In hot Glazing materials. The simplest method to
climates, exterior shading devices often work well maximize daylight within a space is to increase the
to both reduce head gain and diffuse natural light glazing area. However, three glass characteristics
before entering the work space. Examples of such need to be understood in order to optimize a
devices include light shelves, overhangs, horizontal fenestration system:
louvers, vertical louvers, and dynamic tracking of U-value: represents the rate of heat transfer
reflecting systems. due to temperature difference through a
particular glazing material.
Shading coefficient: a ratio of solar heat gain
of a given glazing assembly compared to
double-strength, single glazing. (A related
term, solar heat gain coefficient, is beginning to
replace the term shading coefficient.)
Visible transmittance: a measure of how much
visible light is transmitted through a given
glazing material.

Presentation by: Ar. Aira Rowie Altovar-Muriel

 LIGHTING

DAYLIGHTING METHODS
Aperture location. Simple sidelighting strategies allow daylight to enter a space and can also serve to facilitate
views and ventilation. Typically, the depth of daylight penetration is about two and one-half times the distance
between the top of a window and the sill.
Reflectances of room surfaces. Reflectance values from room surfaces will significantly impact daylight performance
and should be kept as high as possible. It is desirable to keep ceiling reflectances over 80%, walls over 50%, and
floors around 20%. Of the various room surfaces, floor reflectance has the least impact on daylighting penetration.
Integration with electric lighting controls. A successful daylighting design not only optimizes architectural features,
but is also integrated with the electric lighting system. With advanced lighting controls, it is now possible to adjust
the level of electric light when sufficient daylight is available. Three types of controls are commercially available:
Switching controls: on-and-off controls that simply turn the electric lights off when there is ample daylight.
Stepped controls: control individual lamps within a luminary to provide intermediate levels of electric lighting.
Dimming controls: continuously adjust electric lighting by modulating the power input to lamps to complement
the illumination level provided by daylight.

*Skylight - if more than 5% of the roof’s

area, radiant heat goes instead of daylight

Presentation by: Ar. Aira Rowie Altovar-Muriel

 LIGHTING
Standard A

ARTIFICAIL LIGHTING FILAMENT LAMPS

Ellipsoidal Reflector ER
artificial light is human-made variety of incandescent
and can emanate from lamp in which the light
Reflector R
sources including fire, source is a fine electrical
candlelight, gaslight, electric conductor heated by the
Globular G
lamps and so on. passage of current.

Straight S
Lamp - artificial light
Bulb - glass enclosure
T
Fixture - receptacle Tubular
Luminaire - complete setup
(e.g. Ballast, Starter, Driver, Pear-shape PS
Diffuser,Reflector)
Flame F

PAR
Parabolic Aluminized
(Incandescent/
Reflector
Halogen)

Presentation by: Ar. Aira Rowie Altovar-Muriel

 LIGHTING
FILAMENT SHAPES LIGHT BULB SHAPES

Presentation by: Ar. Aira Rowie Altovar-Muriel

LIGHTING

Presentation by: Ar. Aira Rowie Altovar-Muriel

 LIGHTING
HIGH INTENSITY DISCHARGE LAMPS
Mercury Vapor - the first HID lamp; contains
mercury vapor in clear quartz arc tube that produces
visible light of blue-green color. This is suitable for
limited industrial areas, general outdoors, and street
lighting.
high wattage, high efficiency
Metal Halide - this is mercury vapor with arc of
improvised color. In addition to mercury, arc tube
contains metallic vapors such as indium iodide,
thallium iodide, or sodium iodide.
increased light output, improved CRI without
phosphors, small source size, compact, and can be
downlight or recess type
Pressure Sodium (HPS/LPS) - newest HID; arc tube
made of high-density polycrystalline alumina
containing mixture of sodium.
most efficient HID, low CRI, expensive, and long life
span

Presentation by: Ar. Aira Rowie Altovar-Muriel

 LIGHTING
LIGHT EMITTING DIODE (LED)
desired bright, white, colored, and long-lasting light;
ideal for retail, feature lighting, ceiling fixture, and
cove light
electronic gear box; bluish light used for medical
equipment (before)
Characteristics:
compact
minimal heat
different colors
up to 120deg
doesn’t need diffuser
lower wattage
longer lifespan
has OLED version (for digital display)
can be indoor/outdoor
medium CRI

Presentation by: Ar. Aira Rowie Altovar-Muriel

LIGHTING
HID VS LED

Presentation by: Ar. Aira Rowie Altovar-Muriel

 LIGHTING
QUESTION: WHICH IS AN ALTERNATIVE CHEAP LIGHTING?
Compact Fluorescent Lamp (CFL) then Fluorescent

QUESTION: WHAT IS MOST COMMONLY USED FOR

ADVERTISING?
Fluorescent > Metal Halide > Neon > LED

QUESTION: WHAT IS MOST SUITABLE FOR OUTDOOR PARKING?

HID (all types) > Metal Halide > Mercury Vapor

Presentation by: Ar. Aira Rowie Altovar-Muriel

 LIGHTING
BALLAST LUMINAIRE
auxiliary equipment for fluorescent and HID which device supporting source of light and helps control
limits amount of current in lamp and provide proper light rays from source; control rays necessary to
standing voltages secure even distribution to avoid glare, cut-off direct
Low Power Factor - cheap but inefficient rays to eyes, eliminates disturbing reflection of rays
High Power Factor - capacitor improves from polished surfaces
efficiency Types:
Ballast - regulate electricity Eyeball saucer
Starter - determines if regulated electricity was Spotlight
correct Pendant (low/high bay)
Wall/Floor/Ceiling light
Task light
Oddities
Lantern
Exterior lights
Bollards

Presentation by: Ar. Aira Rowie Altovar-Muriel

 LIGHTING
LUMINAIRE

Presentation by: Ar. Aira Rowie Altovar-Muriel

 LIGHTING
Accessories
Capacitor - electric component consisting of
conducting plates insulated by layer of dielectric
material; introduces capacitance to the circuit

Capacitance - quantitative measure of electric

energy storage capability of capacitor; usually in
farads or microfarads

Dimmer - device to control amount of light by

reducing current/voltage specially designed;
applicable Halogen, LED, Fluorescent, CFL

Reflector - e.g. aluminum

Diffuser - e.g. plastic, acrylic

Presentation by: Ar. Aira Rowie Altovar-Muriel

 LIGHTING
LIGHTING SYSTEMS

Cornice - shielded by panel parallel to wall and

attached to ceiling to distribute light
downwards the wall (direct lighting)

Cove - shielded by ledge to distribute light

upwards over ceiling and upper wall (indirect
lighting); used for accent

Valance - shielded by panel parallel to wall

across top of window to distribute light
upwards and downwards over wall

Presentation by: Ar. Aira Rowie Altovar-Muriel

 LIGHTING
LIGHTING METHODS
Local - lamps at definite points where light is
especially needed producing pools of light
mingled with areas of shadows; opposite of
uniform illumination
depends upon furniture and activities
position
General - diffused light and uniform intensity
over entire area; lamps evenly spaced without
regard to furniture location
provided with reflectors, baffles, diffusing
prisms to prevent glare, harsh shadows, and
uneven illumination
Combined - sufficient general lighting to illuminate various objects in room and furnishes
additional local lamps at desks, reading tables, showcases, and other equipment
Decorative - atmosphere and interest when not requiring much light

Presentation by: Ar. Aira Rowie Altovar-Muriel

 LIGHTING
QUALITY OF LIGHT
Uniformity - freedom from variations of Absence of Glare
illumination in a room/space Glare - effect of brightness in field of vision causing
Absolute Uniformity - same intensity annoyance/discomfort/interference with sight
throughout, not practicable; 25% deviation Direct/Disability Glare - light source in field of vision
from average intensity cannot be detected Reflected/Discomfort Glare -reflection in viewed surface
by eye, acceptable maximum Color of Light - depends upon type of lamp; used to enhance
Diffusion - number of directions and angles certain qualities (e.g. FL lamps used to enhance food in
from which illuminating rays proceed restaurants)
Good Diffusion - light fails upon
matte/satin surface from variety of INTENSITY OF ILLUMINATION
directions, eliminating shadows and
streaks of brilliancy
Poor Diffusion - illumination from one
direction causing visual confusion due to
distorted highlights and shadows

Presentation by: Ar. Aira Rowie Altovar-Muriel

LIGHTING

Presentation by: Ar. Aira Rowie Altovar-Muriel

LIGHTING

Presentation by: Ar. Aira Rowie Altovar-Muriel

 LIGHTING
LIGHTING TERMS
Absorption - loss of light when rays strikes any medium Reflectance - aka Reflection Factor; ratio of light
Absorptance - aka Absorption Factor; ratio of light reflected by a surface to light falling upon it
absorbed by material to light falling upon it Spectrum - range of electromagnetic radiation
Accent Lighting - directional lighting to emphasize Specular Reflection - beam of light reflected when a
space/object light ray striking a shiny or glossy surface at an angle of
Diffuse Reflection - beam of light reflected diffusely, ray incidence is reflected as the same beam with equal
scattered in all directions, if it strikes rough or matte range of reflection; retaining original image
surface Transmission - passage of light through a medium
Filter - device which changes amount and/or color of when light falls upon a transparent material
light Transmittance - aka Transmission Factor; ratio of light
High Hat - can-type of recessed incandescent transmitted to light striking the surface; equivalent to 1
downlight minus absorptance
Lumiline - tubular fluorescent lamp with disc base at
each end
Munsell System - system for cataloguing colors based
on smallest discrete increment of color change
recognizable by human; uses Hue, Chrome, Value to
organize complete range of possible colors
Presentation by: Ar. Aira Rowie Altovar-Muriel
 COMMUNICATION AND SIGNAL SYSTEMS
GENERAL TYPES OTHERS
1. Surveillance and Signal Equipment - Intrusion/Burglar Alarm System - metallic tape and micro/magnetic
fire, smoke, intruder detection and switches used to detect door and window motion and glass
alarm systems (all signal systems breakage; eye/laser light beam used to detect movement once
require surveillance systems to process blocked
information then transmit it and as a Industrial Building Security System
means of indicating signal Door & Exit Controls - electrified security door hardware that
audibly/visually) triggers alarm when door is opened without authorization
2. Audio & Visual Equipment - telephone, Personnel Entry Control - card reader
intercom, TV, CCTV 1st level - insertion of card
3. Time Equipment - clock and program 2nd level - encoding of 30digit number + insertion card
equipment 3rd level - attendant compares card data through computer
to check person’s appearance
GENERAL PARTS Watchmen’s Tour Equipment - station allows guard to call in
1. Detectors through intercom and permits general alarm to ring through
2. Control Unit/Panel operation of key
3. Alarm Devices
4. Wiring/Circuitry

Presentation by: Ar. Aira Rowie Altovar-Muriel

 ACOUSTICS *Speed of sound in solids are higher than
in liquids or gases

ACOUSTICS Sound - human ear’s response to pressure fluctuations in air

the properties or qualities of a room or caused by vibrating objects; travels in space by Wave Motion
building that determine how sound is Types of Sound: Music, Speech, Noise
transmitted in it. Physical Qualities of Sound
Architectural acoustics is the study of Frequency - number of sound ripples generated in unit
sound in buildings, as well as the design time; unit in Hertz (Hz) or cycles per second
of those structures for best acoustic Infrasonic Frequency - which are not heard but
performance, which includes sound perceived as vibrations; below 20kHz
transmission management, speech Ultrasonic Frequency - not also heard; above 20kHz
intelligibility, and sound isolation for Speed - speed of sound in air = 344m/s; does not vary
speech privacy. with frequency of sound or loudness; sounds at all audible
frequencies regarding of loudness travel at the same
speed
Wavelength - distance between two adjacent
Speed = Frequency x Wavelength compressions/rarefactions in a sound wave
Intensity - the amount of sound power falling on a unit
area
Threshold of Audibility = 0dB
Threshold of Pain = 130dB
Presentation by: Ar. Aira Rowie Altovar-Muriel
 ACOUSTICS
CHARACTERISTICS OF SOUND
Loudness - aka Sound Intensity Level; NOISE CONTROL
measure of intensity of sound 1. Insulation (i.e. walls, partitions, doors, windows, ventilating
expressed in decibels (dB) systems)
2. Structure-borne noise and machine noise
Pitch - frequency of sound wave
perceived by human ear

High Pitch = High Frequency

CONTROL OF SOUND IN A ROOM
1. shape
2. design, location RT = 0.16V / ∑A
3. amount and location of
reflective/absorptive material V = volume in cu.m.
4. reverberation time in seconds: ∑A = total absorption in
Metric Sabins

Presentation by: Ar. Aira Rowie Altovar-Muriel

 ACOUSTICS High Pitch = High Frequency

ACOUSTICAL DEFECTS usually caused by reflected sound

1. Prolonged Reverberation - continuation of sound in an enclosed space after initial source has been terminated
a. Cause: room surface hard and smooth or very large; little sound energy is absorbed
b. Effect: blurred sound
c. Factors:
i. volume of the room
ii. sound absorbing qualities of room
iii. number of people and furniture
2. Echo - distinct reflection of original sound; with sufficient time delay
a. Cause: path of reflected sound is greater than 20m/65ft path of direct sound
b. Effect: emphasis on certain frequencies at expense of others
3. Resonance - reinforcement of certain sound frequencies due to sympathetic vibrations; relatively large amplitude of
vibration produced when frequency of source equals natural frequency of room
a. Cause: room with high reflective surfaces
b. Effect: emphasis on certain frequencies at expense of others
4. Flutter Echo - rapid but repetitive succession of sound
a. Cause: highly reflective parallel surface
5. Undue Focusing - converging of sound at certain points with resulting loss of energy in other parts
a. Cause: concave surfaces
Presentation by: Ar. Aira Rowie Altovar-Muriel
 ACOUSTICS
HOW IS SOUND MEASURED?
Decibels - used by Acoustical
Engineers to quantify sound
loudness
Acoustical Absorption - is the
ability of a material to absorb
rather than reflect sound (think
about the difference between
jumping onto a trampoline vs
into a pile of pillows).
Sound Transmission Loss -
refers to a material’s ability to
reduce sound transfer from
one space to another (i.e.
blocking noise or sound
between rooms).

Presentation by: Ar. Aira Rowie Altovar-Muriel

 ACOUSTICS
SOUND TERMINOLOGY - THE BASIC DEFINITIONS OF BUILDING ACOUSTICS

Term Definition Example/ Situation

A sound’s intensity will always diminish with

Acoustic distance, but the type of medium it passes
When the intensity of a sound
attenuation/ through will affect how quickly it happens. In built
diminishes as it passes through a
sound environments, an ideal attenuation is usually
medium.
attenuation achieved with a combination of sound blocking
and sound absorption strategies.

This is the sound level in a space

DNL is used to assess the appropriateness of a
averaged over 24 hours, but with 10dB
potential building site relative to the function of
Day-night added to all sound between 10 pm and
the building planned for it. High DNL values can
average sound 7 am before the average is done. This
mean a more massive and sound-attenuating
level (DNL) average level is thus usually greater
envelope is required to protect occupants from
than the true energy average level over
environmental noise.
the day.

Presentation by: Ar. Aira Rowie Altovar-Muriel

 ACOUSTICS
SOUND TERMINOLOGY - THE BASIC DEFINITIONS OF BUILDING ACOUSTICS

Term Definition Example/ Situation

Noise from HVAC equipment and systems needs

HVAC The noise generated by a building’s to be controlled through proper equipment
background heating, ventilation and air conditioning selection, system design and routing, noise
noise (HVAC) equipment. control measures and physical barriers such as
walls and slabs.

These sounds travel because the impact creates

vibrations in the construction elements (e.g.
Impact sounds wood joists and beams) that connect walls, floors
The airborne sound or noise arising
(impact and ceilings as part of the overall acoustics
from the impact of an object making
isolation class system. The easiest way to control impact noise
direct contact with a surface.
- IIC) is to use carpet and pad on floors or to use a
sound control underlayment beneath hard floor
finishes.

Presentation by: Ar. Aira Rowie Altovar-Muriel

 ACOUSTICS
SOUND TERMINOLOGY - THE BASIC DEFINITIONS OF BUILDING ACOUSTICS

Term Definition Example/ Situation

Noise level The amount of attenuation provided by Requirements for NLR vary by regional and local
reduction construction to reduce the noise level regulations. To increase NLR the envelope of a
(NLR) on the other side than the source. building often needs to become more massive.

Not just an outdoor phenomenon; noise pollution

Unwanted sounds that can have a
Noise can be experienced in built environments with
negative impact on health and the
pollution negative consequences on health and
quality of an environment.
productivity.

Presentation by: Ar. Aira Rowie Altovar-Muriel

 ACOUSTICS
SOUND TERMINOLOGY - THE BASIC DEFINITIONS OF BUILDING ACOUSTICS

Term Definition Example/ Situation

Acoustic NRC sound ratings use a scale of 0 to

Noise reduction coefficient (NRC) is a
NRC and NRC 1, with 0 being the least absorptive (or reflective)
rating of how much sound an acoustic
rating of a sound, and 1 meaning the material absorbs
surface or material can absorb.
a lot of sound.

The OITC sound rating provides a

Created to test exterior walls and their elements
Outdoor- single number rating for roofs, facades
(windows and doors); because of the larger
indoor and facade elements that are subjected
range in expected sound, OITC values are
transmission to transportation noises. The higher the
determined for lower frequencies as well and are
class/ OITC number the better the noise isolation;
often lower than STC ratings for the same
sound rating calculated over the frequency range of
construction assembly.
80 to 4,000 hertz.

Presentation by: Ar. Aira Rowie Altovar-Muriel

 ACOUSTICS
SOUND TERMINOLOGY - THE BASIC DEFINITIONS OF BUILDING ACOUSTICS

Term Definition Example/ Situation

The sound that reflects around inside a

room even after the source has Reverberation is characterized by reverberation
become silent until it (the sound) time (which is further explained below) and can
Reverberation
eventually loses energy. Less often be reduced through careful consideration
reverberation means that it is easier to of a room’s surfaces.
understand speech in a given space.

Reverberation time is mostly affected by the

volume and extent of sound absorbing surfaces
inside the room. As the room gets smaller or as
The time it takes for a sound to decay
Reverberation more sound absorption is added, the
60dB after the source has become
time reverberation time decreases. In order for
silent.
speech to be intelligible in most rooms, the
reverberation time should be no longer 0.60
seconds.

Presentation by: Ar. Aira Rowie Altovar-Muriel

 ACOUSTICS
SOUND TERMINOLOGY - THE BASIC DEFINITIONS OF BUILDING ACOUSTICS

Term Definition Example/ Situation

Sound
Sound isolation is the ability to block
isolation/insul
sound transmission from one room or
ation or noise
area to another (between the source This soundproofing technique is often used in
isolation,
and the receiver) by separating, or ”floating” walls or floors.
sometimes
decoupling, assembly materials to stop
referred to as
the transfer of sound energy.
sound blocking

When one sound, often intentional, is Often confused with “white noise,” sound
introduced into an environment to masking can be provided by electronic systems,
Sound masking
make another undesirable sound less water features, nature or HVAC systems in
audible. buildings.

Presentation by: Ar. Aira Rowie Altovar-Muriel

 ACOUSTICS
SOUND TERMINOLOGY - THE BASIC DEFINITIONS OF BUILDING ACOUSTICS

Term Definition Example/ Situation

The measure of a sound’s pressure In architectural acoustics it is typically the goal to

relative to the pressure around it; in its attenuate noise with absorption and blocking in
Sound
simplest form, quiet sounds produce order to decrease the sound pressure level at
pressure level
waves with relatively small pressures. the ears of listeners or amplify desired sounds
(SPL)
Loud noises produce sound waves with with reflections to increase sound pressure level
large pressures. at the ears of listeners.

STC ratings between rooms are most often

required to be in the 40-50 range. Some
Sound One of the standard metrics that
situations require even higher ratings. To
transmission quantifies an assembly's ability to
increase STC, the assembly such as a wall or
class/ STC decrease airborne sound transfer
floor needs additional mass, insulation inside
rating between rooms.
cavities or resilient breaks between the layers of
the construction.

Presentation by: Ar. Aira Rowie Altovar-Muriel

 ACOUSTICS
SOUND TERMINOLOGY - THE BASIC DEFINITIONS OF BUILDING ACOUSTICS

Term Definition Example/ Situation

There are different ways to “soundproof” a space

Soundproofing is a general term used – the most common are blocking and absorption;
Soundproofing to describe reducing sound pressure they work differently but have the same desired
between a source and the receiver. effect of reducing noise and should ideally be
used in conjunction with one another.

Sentence understanding of 90-95% is usually

Speech intelligibility is the ability to
desired for clear understanding of the
hear and understand conversation. It is
conversation in a room. To increase speech
related to the sound power and
Speech intelligibility, block noise that would make the
directivity of the speaker, the
intelligibility speech harder to hear, attenuate HVAC
background noise level and the sound
background and environmental noise from the
attenuation between the source and
exterior and utilize sound-absorbing surfaces in
the receiver.
the room to decrease reverberation time.

Presentation by: Ar. Aira Rowie Altovar-Muriel

 ACOUSTICS
SOUND TERMINOLOGY - THE BASIC DEFINITIONS OF BUILDING ACOUSTICS

Term Definition Example/ Situation

Speech privacy relates to sound blocking by

physical barriers such as walls, slabs and doors
The inability to understand someone
and the background sound level. As the sound
Speech privacy else’s speech – essentially the
blocking capacity of the barrier increases and as
opposite of speech intelligibility.
the background sound increases, the speech
privacy also increases.

Presentation by: Ar. Aira Rowie Altovar-Muriel