BUILDING SERVICES (BLD 60903)

Project 1:
Case Study of Building Services in Multi-Storey Buildings Involving Public Use

TUTOR: MR ZAFARULLAH ROZALY

Hanees Sabri 0331307

Keshav Seeraz 0326598
Harris Aziz 0323219
Natalie Chen KheMin 0327110
Natasha Labitoria 0327012
Muhamad Afiq 0331335
Sarah Wasim 0331249

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TABLE OF CONTENTS

ACKNOWLEDGEMENT 5
ABSTRACT 6
INTRODUCTION 7

1.0 ACTIVE FIRE PROTECTION SYSTEM 8

1.1 Introduction
1.2 Systems
1.2.1 Fire detection devices
- Smoke detector
- Heat detector
- Flame detector
1.2.2 Alarm
- Manual call points
- Fireman intercom
- Motorized bell
- Wall mounted horns

1.2.3 Water Based

- Sprinkler system
- Dry riser system

1.2.4 Non-Water Based

- INERTEC system
- Fire Extinguisher

1.3 Case Study for Utusan Melayu Building

1.3.1 Fire detection system
1.3.2 Sprinkler system
1.3.3 Dry riser system
1.3.4 External hydrants system
1.3.5 INERTEC system

1.4 Conclusion
1.5 References

2.0 PASSIVE FIRE PROTECTION SYSTEM 42

2.1 Introduction
2.2 Systems
2.2.1 Passive containment
- Compartmentation
- Smoke control
- Fire resistant elements
2.2.2 Means of escape
- escape routes
- Place of assembly
2.2.3 Fire fighting access
- Fire appliance access

2.3 Case study for Utusan Melayu Building

2.3.1 Passive Containment
2.3.2 Means of escape
2.3.3 Fire Fighting Access

2.4 Conclusion
2.5 References

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TABLE OF CONTENTS

3.0 MECHANICAL VENTILATION SYSTEM 52

3.1 Introduction
3.2 Types of Mechanical Ventilation Systems
3.2.1 Mechanical Extract System
3.2.2 Mechanical Supply System
3.2.3 Combined Mechanical Extract & Supply

3.3 Table of comparison

3.4 Components of Mechanical Ventilation System
3.4.1 Fans
3.4.2 Air Filters

3.5 Case Study for Utusan Melayu Building

3.5.1 Supply Ventilation System
3.5.2 Extract Ventilation System

3.6 Conclusion
3.7 References

4.0 AIR CONDITIONING SYSTEM 67

4.1 Introduction
4.2 Types of Air cycles
4.2.1 Refrigerant cycle
4.2.2 Air cycle

4.3 Types of Air conditioning systems

4.3.1 Room Air conditioning
4.3.2 Split Air conditioning
4.3.3 Packaged Air conditioning
4.3.4 Centralised Air conditioning

4.4 Case Study

4.5 Centralised Air conditioning
4.5.1 Cooling Tower
4.5.2 Water Cooled Chiller
4.5.2.1 Components of Water Cooled Chiller
4.5.3 Air Handling Unit (AHU)
4.5.3.1 Components of Air Handling Units
4.5.4 Diffuser
4.5.5 Fan Coil Unit
4.5.5 Split unit Air conditioning

4.6 Conclusion
4.7 References

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TABLE OF CONTENTS

5.0 MECHANICAL TRANSPORTATION SYSTEM 83

5.1 Introduction

5.2 Elevators
5.2.1 Introduction of elevators
5.2.1.1 Specification of an elevator
5.2.1.2 Factors to determine the number of lifts
5.2.1.3 Location of lift
5.2.1.4 Criteria of elevator system

5.2.2 Types of elevator system

5.2.2.1 Traction elevator
5.2.2.2 Hydraulic elevator

5.3 Case study of utusan melayu building

5.3.1 Introduction and function
5.3.2 Components of elevator

5.4 Operation of system

5.5 Observation and analysis

5.5.1 Location of elevators
5.5.2 Analysis of utusan melayu building

5.6 Uniform building by law

5.7 Conclusion
5.8 References

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ACKNOWLEDGEMENT

We are really grateful because we

managed to complete this report within the time
given by our lecturer, Mr. Zafar. This assignment
could not have been completed without the
effort and co-operation of our group members.
We also sincerely would like to thank Mr. Zafar,
for the guidance and encouragement in finishing
this assignment and also for teaching for this
course.

We would like to express our utmost

gratitude to Utusan Malaysia Berhad for allowing
us to visit their headquarters to obtain
information about the building service systems.
We would like to acknowledge the person who
made it possible for us to enter the premises,
Encik Fahmi Nasrudin, from the administration
department. He was very cooperative and willing
to help us with our needs. Also, we would like to
thank the security guards at the site for helping
bring us around and the friendly assistance.

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ABSTRACT

This report is a case study on the Utusan

Malaysia Berhad building systems. The focus of
this report is to understand and analyse the
application of services to the functioning of a
building. The main systems that are analysed are
fire protection system, mechanical ventilation
system, air conditioning system and mechanical
transportation system.

The methodology of this report is by interviewing

specialists of the building and also recording
data through observations during the site visit.
We also analysed the architectural drawings of
the building.

The case study shows that all the systems in the

building interact with one another and work in
unison to ensure the building functions to it best.
The systems are codependent and not one
system can work on its own without the others
for the safety of the building and its users.

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INTRODUCTION

Our chosen building is the Utusan Malaysia

Berhad Headquarters located at No. 44, Jalan
Utusan off Jalan Chan Sow Lin, Kuala Lumpur.
We chose this building because it is located This
building was completed in 2010. The company
moved into the building in 2013.

The building is divided into three blocks, A,B and

C. Block A is the main building where the writers
all work. Block B is the administration block.
Lastly, block C is a multi storey parking.

Block A and B both have 8 floors and a roof.

Block C on the other hand has an extra level
totaling up to 9 floors. Block B acts as bridge
connecting blocks A and C.

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1.0 ACTIVE FIRE
PROTECTION

1.1 iNTRODUCTIONS
1.2 SYSTEMS
1.2.1 Fire detection devices
1.2.2 Alarm
1.2.3 Water Based
1.2.4 Non-Water Based

1.3 CASE STUDY FOR UTUSAN

MELAYU BUILDING
1.3.1 Fire detection system
1.3.2 Water Based Systems
1.3.3 Non Water Based Systems

1.4 CONCLUSION
1.5 REFERENCES

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1.0 ACTIVE FIRE PROTECTION

1.1 INTRODUCTION

Active fire protection is defined by a system that

responds to external change in its surrounding
environment. These changes range from
differences in temperature, presence of smoke,
to differences in motion while the responses are
usually immediate. This is in contrary to passive
fire protection, which provides protection in
terms of containment of the fire and ensuring
structural integrity of the building at high
temperatures.

1.2 SYSTEMS

There are various systems in place designed for

active fire protection. These systems work
together to actively detect and respond in the
case of fire in a building.

1.2.1 FIRE DETECTION SYSTEM

Fire detection systems are systems based on

input devices which then send data to output
devices. An example of an input device would be
a smoke/ heat detector which is placed inside a
room/building. Once this detector is triggered by
a change in the surrounding environment, data
would then be sent to its corresponding output
device for a response.

1. Smoke Detectors

A device that will sense the presence of

smoke, usually an indication of fire.
Commercial smoke detectors will work
hand in hand with the fire alarm system.
The detector sends a signal to the fire
alarm control panel which then proceeds
to alert the whole building when there is a
fire.

Domestic smoke detectors can come with

a built-in speaker and battery or multiple
detectors linked together to make up a
detection system.
Figure 1.1 Typical ceiling mounted
Smoke detectors are not the safest smoke detector.
guarantee against detecting fire even
though it cuts down the mortality rate in
houses that have them. Certain places 9
have large volumes of dust particles and
this might causes false alarms.
1.0 ACTIVE FIRE PROTECTION

2. Heat Detectors

A device that is used to sense heat

changes within an area. The device
contains an element that is sensitive to
heat and is triggered when thermal energy
convection occurs, raising the temperature
of the element. There are two types of
heat detectors, one where it detects the
rate of rise in temperature, and another
that sets a fixed temperature to be
detected. Hence, the selection of type of
heat detector to be placed in certain areas
should be carefully thought out as one
might not be suitable.

The most common type of heat detector is

a fixed temperature heat detector. It
functions with the use of a eutectic alloy
that reaches its eutectic point, where it
changes from solid to liquid. A eutectic
point is lower than the melting point for
each element that makes up the alloy. Figure 1.2 Typical ceiling mounted
fixed temperature heat detector.
Another type of heat detector is
rate-of-rise heat detectors. This detector
senses for rapid rise in temperature per
minute. Unlike fixed temperature, this
detector does not have a starting
temperature and solely focuses on the
rate of temperature difference.

Heat detectors are not a replacement for

smoke detectors by any means. It will still
function as a fire detection device. In cases
where the area is prone to dust, smoke
detectors are replaced with heat
detectors. The quick response to
temperature change will allow more time
for evacuation or extinguishing the fire. Figure 1.3 Typical ceiling mounted
rate-of-rise heat detector.
Heat detectors are useful when it comes
to locating the source and location of the
fire. It can be installed in any area of a
building, unlike smoke detectors where it
is not suitable in some areas. It is easy to
install, reliable and works most efficient
when coupled together with smoke
detectors.

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1.0 ACTIVE FIRE PROTECTION

2. Flame Detectors

A device that senses the presence of a

flame or fire. While the other two
detectors are sensing for dust particles
and heat changes, this detector will be on
the lookout for the flame itself. Hence, it
can respond faster and detect the source
faster than any other detector. The
detector responds to a fire through several
ways, such as sounding an alarm, cutting
of a fuel line and activating the fire
suppression system.

There are four types of flame detectors

commonly used;

Ultraviolet flame detectors work by

detecting light wavelengths of no more
than 300nm. They can detect fires that
change the levels of radiation in the
atmosphere within 3-4 miliseconds.
However, other UV sources such as
lighting and sunlight can also trigger false
alarms.

Near IR array flame detectors work by

visually identifying a flame. They are also
known as visual flame detectors. It has a
Charged-Coupled Device (CCD) that
allows the presence of a flame to be read
through pixel arrays. Figure 1.4 Typical ultraviolet flame
detector.

Infrared flame detectors work with the

infrared spectral band. When a fire
happens, hot gases will emit patterns in
the infrared spectral band. This is then
analysed using a specialised thermal
imaging camera.

IR3 flame detectors work by only

measuring the modulated elements of
radiation and disregarding background
radiation.

Flame detectors are mostly utilised in

environments such as industrial heating
systems and hydrogen stations. They are
more efficient that smoke and heat Figure 1.5 Typical IR3 flame detector.
detectors.
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1.0 ACTIVE FIRE PROTECTION

1.2.2 FIRE ALARM SYSTEM

Fire alarm systems work hand in hand with

detection systems, whereby the detection device
would relay an input for the alarm system to
respond to. There are various types of alarms and
systems used to ensure the safety of the building
occupants.

1. Manual call point

Manual call points are manually activated

points or switches that allow occupants to
raise the alarm in the event of fire or
emergency. Such call points are usually
encased in glass, to be broken in event of
fire. These points automatically activate a Figure 1.6 Manual call point mounted
on wall.
siren or alarm throughout the building,
informing all occupants of the ongoing
emergency situation.

2. Fireman intercom system

The fireman intercom system links the

building’s alarm system with the nearest
fire department or Jabatan Bomba . The
intercom system consists of two main
devices.

a) Fire telephone

These remote telephone handsets

are located in the emergency exit
staircases of buildings and provide Figure 1.7 Fireman intercom system.
victims with direct access to the
master station. This allows
firefighters and front line responders
with direct knowledge and location
of the fire or emergency
accordingly.

b) Fire alarm control panel

The fire alarm control panel, located

in the main security room of the
building, is a panel which displays
the location of all available
components. This panel allows
Figure 1.8 Fire alarm control panel.
firefighters to quickly identify the
source of the fire or emergency, as
well as being directly connected to 12
the nearest fire department.
1.0 ACTIVE FIRE PROTECTION

3. Motorized bells

An electric bell is a mechanical bell that

functions by means of an electromagnet.
When an electric current is applied, it
produces a repetitive buzzing or clanging
sound.

For fire alarms, the typical type of

motorized bell used is the “vibrating” type,
which produces a continuous ringing
sound once activated until turned off.
These types of bells inform occupants of Figure 1.9 Alarm bell.
the emergency until all occupants are
evacuated.

4. Wall mounted megaphones

These speakers are used to address the

occupants of the building in the event of a
fire or emergency. These megaphones are
linked to the intercom control centre
located in the main security of the
building.

Figure 1.10 Wall mounted

megaphones.

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1.0 ACTIVE FIRE PROTECTION

1.2.3 WATER BASED SYSTEMS

Water based fire suppression systems use water

as the main fire fighting medium. This system
comprises of output devices which react
accordingly to changes in the surrounding
ambient temperature.

1. Sprinklers

Sprinkler heads are a component of active

fire protection which dispels water once a
predetermined temperature is exceeded.
Figure 1.11 shows the overall sprinkler
Sprinkler heads are part of a system which system in a building.
involves a water supply that supplies
adequate pressure and flow to the device.
Each closed-head sprinkler is held closed
by either a heat-sensitive glass bulb or a
two-part metal link held together with
fusible alloy. The glass bulb or link applies
pressure to a pipe cap which acts as a
plug which prevents water from flowing
until the ambient temperature around the
sprinkler reaches the design activation
temperature of the individual sprinkler
head. In a standard wet-pipe sprinkler
system, each sprinkler activates
independently when the predetermined
heat level is reached. Thus, only sprinklers
near the fire will operate, normally just one Figure 1.12 shows an upright sprinkler
or two. This maximizes water pressure head.
over the point of fire origin, and minimizes
water damage to the building.

Sprinkler systems typically consist of the

sprinklers, a pumpset and a sprinkler alarm
valve. The pumpset and alarm valve are
usually placed in near proximity of each
other.

Figure 1.13 shows a ceiling mounted

sprinkler head.

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1.0 ACTIVE FIRE PROTECTION

2. Dry Risers

A dry riser system consists of main vertical

pipes through multiple levels of a building.
The pipe is maintained empty as indicated
by ‘dry’ riser system. The pipe is fitted with
an inlet connection at fire engine access
level and landing valves on various floors.
The system serves as an internal hydrant
for fireman to use after water is pumped
into the system through the inlet by a fire
engine. Air release valve is installed at the
top to relieve any trapped air in the
system. Dry risers are installed for
buildings with a top most habitable floor
above 18.3 metres and less than 30.5
metres above fire appliance access level. Figure 1.14 shows the breeching inlets
for floors in a building.
The breeching inlet is located outside the
building at the fire appliance access level
and is housed in a cabinet for protection.
Pressurized water is pumped into the
system through the inlet from the fire
engine during a fire emergency. Therefore,
the breeching inlet is positioned not more
than 18 metres from the fire engine access
and not more than 30 metres from the
nearest fire hydrant to increase efficiency
during fire fighting. A drain is also included
in the inlet to drain the system after use.

Figure 1.15 shows a section of how

dry risers work.

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1.0 ACTIVE FIRE PROTECTION

2. Dry Risers (cont.)

The breeching inlet is located outside the

building at the fire appliance access level
and is housed in a cabinet for protection.
Pressurized water is pumped into the
system through the inlet from the fire
engine during a fire emergency. Therefore,
the breeching inlet is positioned not more
than 18 metres from the fire engine access
and not more than 30 metres from the
nearest fire hydrant to increase efficiency
during fire fighting. A drain is also included
in the inlet to drain the system after use.
Figure 1.16 Breeching inlet.

Figure 1.17 breaching inlet valve

Figure 1.18 valve for hose attachment

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1.0 ACTIVE FIRE PROTECTION

3. Hose reels

Hose reel system serves as an initial

firefighting aid and can be used by the
occupants of the building during the early
stages of fire. The system consists of a
water supply stored in a tank on site,
pumps, pipes and hose reels which are
placed strategically in a building (usually
located at each floor along the escape
routes or beside exit doors or staircase) to
ensure easy accessibility.

The hose is held in a drum that rotates

around a horizontal shaft so that the hose
can be withdrawn from any direction. The
hose is 30 metres long and is made of
non-kinking, braided rubber. A nozzle is
located at the end of the hose which
indicates its open/shut condition. A stop
valve is provided for the connection of the
hose reel to the water supply. The hose Figure 1.19 shows the hose reel on
floors in a building.
reel can be operated simply by opening
the stop valve, running out the hose to a
suitable position and then turning open
the nozzle.

Figure 1.20 shows a hose reel.

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1.0 ACTIVE FIRE PROTECTION

1.2.4 NON WATER BASED

Fire suppressions system can be categorized into

water and non water based. In the case of non
water based methods, it depends on the use of
gases to extinguish fires. Two notable examples
are Inert gases and fire extinguishers.

1. INERTEC system

Up till now, CO2 fire suppressants have not

always been the best option for the
environment. The only other solution now
is to utilise inert gases. INERTEC Systems
is using 100% Nitrogen gas derived from
the atmosphere itself. It does not
contribute to the depletion of the ozone
layers because nitrogen is the biggest
constituent of atmospheric gas.

The gas works by reducing the number of

oxygen levels to below its percentage
required for combustion to occur.
Combustion requires at least 15% of
oxygen and the inert gas released will help
to reduce that number to between 10%
and 12.5%, eliminating any combustion
process.

An advantage of inert gases as a fire

suppressing agent is that it is colourless
and odorless. This means it will not
interfere with the occupants visual ability
to evacuate. The gas does its job without
the occupants realization, allowing them to
make their escape seamless as possible.

It also does not interact or chemically

break down into toxic substances, proving
to be safe for the people when it is
dispersed into the air.

Nitrogen makes up 70% of the air that we

breathe, and it is now used to suppress
fires by reducing the concentration levels
of oxygen in the air. It is the future of fire
suppression systems. It does its job and
then simply returns to the atmosphere
again, and to us through respiration.

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1.0 ACTIVE FIRE PROTECTION

2. Fire Extinguishers

In the case of small fires, where it can still

be controlled, fire extinguishers come into
the picture. They are small mobile fire
suppression tools that exist as the first line
of defense against small fires. Fire
extinguishers are a necessity everywhere
from homes to commercial and industrial
buildings. It is a life safety device that
should not be overlooked because of its
small stature.

Fire extinguishers are often used in

emergencies and not for out-of-control
fires, where it has gotten too big and the
only option is to evacuate the building and
let the other fire suppression systems take
over.

There are two types of fire extinguishers,

stored pressure and cartridge operated.
Figure 1.21 shows stored pressure fire
extinguishers.
Stored pressure fire extinguishers
contain the expellant together with the
firefighting agent in the same chamber.
Propellants differ depending on the agent
used. In the case of dry fire extinguishers,
nitrogen gas is used. For water and foam
based extinguishers, they typically use air
to propel the agent out. This type of fire
extinguisher is

Cartridge operated fire extinguishers

operate by puncturing a cartridge before
discharging the expellant gas. This
exposes the propellant to the
extinguishing agent. This type of fire
extinguisher is more commonly used in
industrial facilities.
Figure 1.22 shows cartridge operated
fire extinguishers.

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1.0 ACTIVE FIRE PROTECTION

There are five different types of fire

extinguishers available.

Water Extinguishers

Most common type of fire extinguisher

used for class A fires.

Label : Bright Red

Use for : Paper

Cardboard
Fabrics
Textiles
Wood
Coal

Not for : Electrical fires

Kitchen fires
Flammable gas and liquids

The water cools the fuel, making it burn

slower until it eventually extinguishes.

Figure 1.23 Water extinguisher.

Foam Extinguishers

Most common type of fire extinguishers

for class B fires. They also work on class A
fires as they are also water based.

Label : Cream

Use for : Paper

Cardboard
Fabrics
Textiles
Wood
Coal
Flammable liquids

Not for : Kitchen fires

Electrical fires
Flammable metals

The foam agent creates a barrier between

the flame and fuel hence extinguishes the Figure 1.24 Foam extinguisher.
fire. Similar to water extinguishers, it also
cools the fuel.

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1.0 ACTIVE FIRE PROTECTION

Dry Powder Extinguishers

Standard extinguishers for classes A,B and

C fires, hence the name ‘ABC’
extinguishers. They are not recommended
to be used in enclosed spaces because
the powder can easily be inhaled. It also
leaves a residue that is not easily removed.

Label : Bright Red

Use for : Paper

Cardboard
Fabrics
Textiles
Wood
Coal
Flammable liquids
Flammable gases
Electrical fires

Not for : Cooking fires

Electrical fires above 1000V
Enclosed spaces

Dry powder extinguishers basically cuts Figure 1.25 Dry Powder extinguisher.
off the oxygen supply to the fuel.

Carbon Dioxide (CO2) Extinguishers

Primarily used for electrical fire risks,

usually in computer server rooms. They
can also put out class B fires.

Label : Black

Use for : Flammable liquids

Electrical fires

Not for : Kitchen fires

Paper
Wood
Textiles
Flammable metals

Carbon Dioxide extinguishers displaces

oxygen with carbon dioxide, killing the fire Figure 1.26 Carbon Dioxide
by not allowing combustion to take place. extinguisher.

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1.0 ACTIVE FIRE PROTECTION

Wet Chemical Extinguishers

Designed for class F fires, involving

cooking oils and fats. Can also be used for
class A fires if needed.

Label : Yellow

Use for : Cooking Oil

Paper
Cardboard
Fabrics
Textiles
Wood
Coal

Not for : Flammable liquids

Electrical Fires
Flammable metals

Wet chemical extinguishers create a layer

of foam on the burning oil’s surface which
Figure 1.27 Wet Chemical
prevents oxygen from fueling combustion. extinguisher.
Similar to water and foam extinguishers, it
has a cooling effect.

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1.0 ACTIVE FIRE PROTECTION

Figure 1.28 Table of fire classes and extinguisher types.

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1.3 CASE STUDY : UTUSAN MALAYSIA

Bangunan Utusan Malaysia applies various types

of active fire protection within the building to
ensure the safety of its occupants.

1.3.1 FIRE DETECTION SYSTEM

The building features two types of detectors

which are smoke and heat detectors. Smoke
detectors are located almost everywhere in the
Figure 1.29 shows a smoke detector
building. However, heat detectors are placed in
on the ceiling of the reception area.
services rooms, such as the generator room.

1. Smoke Detectors

The smoke detectors can be found in

almost every part of the building due to its
ease of installation. The smoke detectors
are all connected to the fire alarm system.
In the case of fire breaking out, the control
room is able to pinpoint the source of the
fire by floors.
Figure 1.30 shows the smoke detector
in the generator room.

2. Heat Detectors

These devices are found in the services

rooms, like the generator room where
sensitive equipment is kept. In this room,
there are two types of detectors located to
ensure that detection is at its best.

Figure 1.31 shows the heat detector in

the generator room.

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1.0 ACTIVE FIRE PROTECTION

1.3.2 FIRE ALARM SYSTEMS

1. Wall Mounted Megaphones

Megaphones are situated outside the
building. These wall mounted
megaphones broadcast safety messages
and inform the public of evacuation points
in the event of fires
Figure 1.32 Wall mounted
2. Motorized Bell
megaphones.
Motorized bells are situated in and around
the building. These bells emit a loud
ringing sound which alert the building
users of the fire and eminent danger.
These bells located on each floor, placed
near the corners, in close proximity to the
exit points.

3. Manual Call Points

These manual call points function as a way Figure 1.33 Motorized bells.
for the building users to manually raise the
alarm in the event of a fire or emergency.
These call points are located around the
perimeter of every floor.

4. Fire Telephones
The fire telephones are located at the end
of each fire escape staircase.

5. Fire Control Panel

Fire control panel is located in the Security
Control room, located adjacent the main
entrance. The panel informs security
personnel in the event of an emergency. Figure 1.34 Manual call points.

Figure 1.35 Fire control panel.

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1.0 ACTIVE FIRE PROTECTION

ALARM SYSTEMS LOCATIONS

Fire alarms Fire telephones Fire control panel

Figure 1.36 First Floor Plan

Fire alarms Fire telephones Figure 1.37 Second Floor Plan 26

1.0 ACTIVE FIRE PROTECTION

Fire alarms Fire telephones

Figure 1.38 Third Floor Plan

Fire alarms Fire telephones

Figure 1.39 Fourth Floor Plan

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1.0 ACTIVE FIRE PROTECTION

Fire alarms Fire telephones Figure 1.40 Fifth Floor Plan

Fire alarms Fire telephones

Figure 1.41 Sixth Floor Plan

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1.0 ACTIVE FIRE PROTECTION

Seventh Floor Plan

Fire alarms Fire telephones Figure 1.42 Seventh Floor Plan

Eighth Floor Plan

Fire alarms Fire telephones Figure 1.43 Eighth Floor Plan

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1.0 ACTIVE FIRE PROTECTION

1.3.2 WATER BASED SYSTEMS

1. Sprinklers

Utusan Melayu Building uses sprinklers

throughout the entire building except in
the printing area located in block A, level 2.

The building mainly uses 2 types of fire

sprinkler heads;

a) Pendent type
b) Upright type
Figure 1.44 Pendent type sprinkler.
Pendent fire sprinklers are used in the
office areas as they provide the most
coverage due to the shape of the deflector
as it is curved downwards, which helps
direct the water flow into a cone shape.
This provides maximum coverage over an
area. Other than that, they are smaller and
sleeker, and are easily installed into
ceilings without disrupting the aesthetics.

The upright type fire sprinkler is mainly

used in places with unfinished ceilings,
such as the car park area and stairwells.
Upright fire sprinklers dispel water in a
hemispherical shape.
Figure 1.45 Upright sprinkler.

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1.0 ACTIVE FIRE PROTECTION

1. Sprinklers (cont.)

The sprinkler system has its own pumpset

which consists of 3 electrical pumps which
are;

a) 1 duty pump
b) 1 standby pump
c) 1 jockey pump
Figure 1.46 Duty pump.
The sprinklers used in the building are
designed to operate automatically and
independently in the event of fire. The
activated sprinklers will activated the
installed sprinkler system flow switch,
which will send an audible and visual
signal to the fire control panel and directly
to the nearest fire brigade. Activation of
the sprinklers also will activate the
Sprinkler Alarm Valve, which is used to
actuate an alarm when more than one
sprinkler is activated. .
Figure 1.47 Domestic water tank.
Due to the drop in water pressure once the
sprinklers are activated, this prompts the
activation of the Fire Water Pump system,
which then must be switched off manually
after the fire has been extinguished
completely. This pumpset does not
operate full time, and only functions in the
event of an emergency.

The water source used for the sprinklers is

separated from the source used for daily
use. The water is stored in a pressed steel
tank which transports the water via
galvanised steel pipes.

Figure 1.48 Sprinkler crank wheels.

31
1.0 ACTIVE FIRE PROTECTION

2. Dry risers
The dry risers are situated outside and
inside the building, at easily accessible
points which are the;

a) rear side of office blocks

b) right side of parking block.

The breeching inlets are located along the

rear of the ground floor. These locations
are within access to the fire truck access
area, which is located to the left of the
building.

In the event of a fire, firemen will attach a

pressurized water source from the Figure 1.49 Dry rise.
firetruck to the breeching inlet, the
pressure will then “push” the water up to
the the landing valves, where firemen will
then utilise the hoses from.

32
1.0 ACTIVE FIRE PROTECTION

3. Hose reel
Fire hose reels serve as the first frontline
fire fighting method, which can be done by
the occupants themselves. Water flow
from the hose can be activated via the
valve. The discharge of water is
approximately 6 metres far. According to
BS 5306 Part 1: 1976, hose reels are to be
installed in recesses so that they do not
form obstructions on a route of escape. A
hose reel can be operated by turning on
the valve (located at the connection on the
pipe), reeling out the hose and directing
the nozzle at the flame base and then
turning on the nozzle.

Fire hose reels serve as the first frontline

fire fighting method, which can be done by
the occupants themselves. Water flow
from the hose can be activated via the Figure 1.50 Hose reel.
valve.

33
1.0 ACTIVE FIRE PROTECTION

WATER BASED SYSTEMS LOCATIONS

Hose reel Dry riser Figure 1.51 First Floor Plan

Hose reel Dry riser Figure 1.52 Second Floor Plan

34
1.0 ACTIVE FIRE PROTECTION

Hose reel Dry riser Figure 1.53 Third Floor Plan

Hose reel Dry riser Figure 1.54 Fourth Floor Plan

35
1.0 ACTIVE FIRE PROTECTION

Hose reel Dry riser Figure 1.55 Fifth Floor Plan

Hose reel Dry riser Figure 1.56 Sixth Floor Plan

36
1.0 ACTIVE FIRE PROTECTION

Hose reel Dry riser Figure 1.57 Seventh Floor Plan

Hose reel Dry riser Figure 1.58 Eighth Floor Plan

37
1.0 ACTIVE FIRE PROTECTION

1.3.3 NON WATER BASED SYSTEMS

1. INERTEC system

Utusan Malaysia Building features inert

gases fire suppression system, INERTEC
which utilizes Nitrogen gas to put out fires.
This system is found in the generator room
where the tanks are stored. The gas is
used to quickly disperse any fire quickly
and efficiently if breakout occurs.
Figure 1.59 Inertec label.

2. Fire Extinguishers

These can be found on every floor and

near the fire exits. The extinguishers are
only able to help control small fires should
be operated by a skilled operative or
fireman.

Figure 1.60 Inertec tanks.

GROUND FLOOR PLAN

INERTEC system application location Figure 1.61 Ground Floor Plan

38
1.0 ACTIVE FIRE PROTECTION

Uniform Building By-Laws 1984

Part VIII Fire Alarms, Fire Detection, Fire

Extinguishment and Fire Fighting Access

Clause 226: Automatic system for hazardous

occupancy.
Where hazardous processes, storage or
occupancy are of such character as to require
automatic
sprinklers or other automatic extinguishing
system, it shall be of a type and standard
appropriate
to extinguish fires in the hazardous materials
stored or handled or for the safety of the
occupants.

Clause 247: Water storage.

(1) Water storage capacity and water flow rate for
firefighting systems and installations shall be
provided in accordance with the scale as set out in
the Tenth Schedule to these By-laws.
(2) Main water storage tanks within the building
other than for hose reel systems, shall be
located at ground, first or second basement levels,
with fire brigade pumping inlet connections
accessible to fire appliances.
(3) Storage tanks for automatic sprinkler
installations where full capacity is provided
without
need for replenishment shall be exempted from
the restrictions in their location.

Clause 228: Sprinkler valves.

(1) Sprinkler valves shall be located in a safe and
enclosed position on the exterior wall and shall
be readily accessible to the Fire Authority.
(2) All sprinkler system shall be electricity
connected to the nearest fire station to provide
immediate and automatic relay of the alarm when
activated.

Clause 248: Marking on wet riser, etc.

(1) Wet riser, dry riser, sprinkler and other fire
installation pipes and fittings shall be painted red.

39
1.0 ACTIVE FIRE PROTECTION

1.4 CONCLUSION

In conclusion, Utusan Malaysia building

complies with all of the UBBL
requirements stated before regarding fire
detection, fire alarms, fire extinguishment
and fire fighting access.

40
 1.0 ACTIVE FIRE PROTECTION

1.5 REFERENCES

Dry riser. (2018). Retrieved from

https://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Dry_riser

Fire sprinkler system. (2018). Retrieved from

https://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Fire_sprinkler_sy
stem

Types of Fire Extinguishers. (2018). Retrieved from

https://surreyfire.co.uk/types-of-fire-exting
uisher/

Smoke Detectors. (2018). Retrieved from

https://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Smoke_detect
or

Heat Detectors. (2018). Retrieved from

https://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Heat_detector

Flame Detectors. (2018). Retrieved from

https://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Flame_detect
or

INERTEC fire suppression system

http://www.isgmtz.com/ig100.pdf

Water Based Suppression Systems | Fire Protection

Systems – Alarm and Detection – Janus Fire
Systems. (2018). Retrieved from

http://www.janusfiresystems.com/products
/water-systems/

41
2.0 PASSIVE FIRE
PROTECTION
2.1 INTRODUCTION

2.2 TYPES OF PASSIVE FIRE

PROTECTION SYSTEMS
2.2.1 Passive Containment
2.2.2 Means of Escape
2.2.3 Fire Fighting Access

2.3 CASE STUDY FOR UTUSAN

MELAYU BUILDING
2.3.1 Passive Containment
2.3.2 Means of Escape
2.3.3 Fire Fighting Access

2.4 CONCLUSION
2.5 REFERENCES

42
2.0 PASSIVE FIRE PROTECTION

2.1 INTRODUCTION

Passive fire system is a system that slows down

or delay the speed of fire and smoke spreading
into other parts of the building. This system helps
to prolong the escape time for users’ in the event
of an emergency. The architectural elements are
modified with fire resistant characteristics.

2.2 SYSTEMS

There are different types of passive fire

protection systems that are considered
beforehand during the design stage of the
building. PFP is inert on normal conditions but it
plays a very important during an emergency.

1. Passive containment
2. Means of escape
3. Fire fighting access

2.2.1 Passive containment

Passive containment is the integral components

of structural fire protection and fire safety in a
building. This uses elements in the building such
as walls, doors and floors to contain fires or slow
it down from spreading into other areas of the
building. These compartments acts as barrier to
give enough time for users to escape in the
event of a fire.

a) Compartmentation
b) Staircase and lobby enclosure
c) Smoke control system
d) Flame containments on material and
construction
e) Fire resistance for wall, structural member
and height

43
2.0 PASSIVE FIRE PROTECTION

2.2.2 Means of escape

Evacuation is an act where users exit the building

during an event of fire. Evacuation routes will be
visible through signages to usher users out of the
building.

a) Escape routes and distance

b) Point of assembly

2.2.3 Fire fighting access

Upon calling the fire brigade, the fire fighters

must have an outlet where they can access to
obtain water to put the fire out.

a) Fire appliances access

b) External access at the premises

44
2.0 PASSIVE FIRE PROTECTION

2.3 CASE STUDY: UTUSAN MELAYU BUILDING

2.3.1 Passive Containment

a) Fire-rated door

In the Utusan Melayu Building,

compartmentation s achieved by using fire-rated
doors. These doors separates the fire and its
gasses from people trying to escape the blaze.
This fire door also limit’s the fire’s expansion and Figure 2.1 Fire-rated door
makes it more easier to control and extinguish.
This door closes automatically with a hydraulic
spring to ensure that it is not left open and in turn
it will contain the fire in the affected room.

UBBL 1984 SECTION 164(1)

- Al fire doors shall be be fitted with
automatically hydraulic spring operated
type in case of swing doors. Figure 2.2 Hydraulic spring

b) Smoke Control System (smoke curtain)

This building achieved smoke controlling system

through the usage of a smoke curtain.

Smoke curtains diverts the smoke away from the

desired location or portatects areas from direct
smoke infiltration. This is an electrically operated
automatic smoke curtain.

Figure 2.3 Smoke curtain

Figure 2.4 Smoke curtain in the

Utusan Melayu building

45
2.0 PASSIVE FIRE PROTECTION

c) Effective Smoke Extraction (smoke spill

system)

In Utusan Melayu smoke spill system is used to

enhance the fire protection system. This smoke
spill system is used to remove smoke from the
building to enable emergency evacuation as well
as improve firefighting.

This uses positive pressurisation of all stairwells Figure 2.5 Smoke spill
in the structure. This positive pressurisation is
obtained through mechanical fans that inject
outside air into the stairwell. The purpose of
maintaining this pressure it to keep the stairwell
clear of smoke and toxic fumes. Smoke travels
from high to low pressure, the fans help create a
slightly higher pressure to control/stop the flow.

Diagram 2.1 Smoke spill schematic

UBBL 1984 SECTION 200(b) system
- Mechanical pressurisation of the staircase
enclosure to the standard performance as
specified in section 7 of the Australian
Standard 1668, part 1 -1974 or any other
systems meeting the functional
requirements of D.G.F.S

d) Fire resistance for structural member

Diagram 2.2 Staircase and lift lobby
pressurisation schematic system
The materials in this building should be able to
withstand fire to prevent from structural failure.
Utusan Melayu Building uses fireproofing
materials such as concrete and steel to maintain
its structural integrity whenever there is a fire
emergency.

UBBL 1984 SECTION 224

- Any element of structure shall be
Figure 2.6 Steel structure integrated
deemed to have the requisite fire
with concrete
resistance if -(a) it is constructed in
accordance with the specifications given
in the Ninth Schedule to these By-laws
and the notional period of the fire
resistance given in that schedule as being
appropriate to that type of construction is
not less than the requisite fire resistance.

46
Figure 2.7 concrete structure
2.0 PASSIVE FIRE PROTECTION

2.3.2 Means of escape

a) Escape routes
i) Vertical exits (staircases)

In this building, the users are encouraged to use

the staircase when there is a fire emergency. Lifts
are not allowed because users might get stuck in
the lift due to electrical problems during an
event of a fire.

Staircases Diagram 2.3 First floor indication

of staircases

ii) Emergency exit signage

Emergency exit signage should be clear and

visible during an emergency. This directs the
users to fire exits for efficient and immediate
evacuation. This signage will be placed on top of
every fire exit.

Figure 2.8 emergency exit signage

UBBL 1984 SECTION 172(1) on top of door
- Storey exits shall be marked by readily
visible signs and shall not be obscured by
any decorations, furnishings or other
equipments.

UBBL 1984 SECTION 172(4), (5)

- All exit signs shall be illuminated
continuously during periods of occupancy
- Illuminated signs shall be provided with
two electric lamps of not less than fifteen
watts each.
Figure 2.9 emergency exit signage
with light switch

47
2.0 PASSIVE FIRE PROTECTION

b) Assembly point

Assembly point is where the users gather outside

of the building after travelling through the
emergency exit route. In Utusan Melayu Building,
the assembly point is located at the main
entrance and the back entrance. These assembly
points are classified as Class C- capacity 100 to Figure 2.10 Assembly point 1
300 persons.

UBBL 1984 SECTION 179(1)

- Classifications of places of assembly,
Class C

Figure 2.11 Assembly point 2

48
2.0 PASSIVE FIRE PROTECTION

Diagram 2.4 Plan of Block A indication of assembly point

Diagram 2.5 Plan of Block BC indication of assembly point

49
2.0 PASSIVE FIRE PROTECTION

2.3.3 Fire Fighting Access

Fire fighting access allows the fire brigade to

access safely and be able to attend to the fire.
This access also provides a pathway for
firefighters to access the levels of the building.
The arrows indicate where the fire truck will
access the

a) External access

Diagram 2.6 Plan of Block A indication of external access

Water outlet

Fire truck access

50
2.0 PASSIVE FIRE PROTECTION

2.4 CONCLUSION

Utusan Melayu building has fulfilled some of

the requirements of UNIFORM BUILDING BY
LAW- 1984 on all categories.

Utusan Melayu is lacking in the

compartmentation of the building where there Diagram 2.7 Example of firewalls
are no firewalls or fire resisting floors used in and fire resisting floors
the strengthening passive fire protection of the
building. Usage of firewalls can help to prolong
the spread of fire into other areas,

2,5 REFERENCES

1. Designingbuildings.co.uk. (2018). Fire

compartment - Designing Buildings Wiki.
[online] Available at:
https://www.designingbuildings.co.uk/w
iki/Fire_compartment [Accessed 15 Oct.
2018].
2. Slideshare.net. (2018). Smoke extraction in
buildings. [online] Available at:
https://www.slideshare.net/vysakhmano
har/smoke-extraction-in-buildings
[Accessed 15 Oct. 2018].

51
3.0 MECHANICAL
VENTILATION
3.0 INTRODUCTION

3.1 TYPES OF MECHANICAL

VENTILATION SYSTEMS

3.1.1 Mechanical Extract System

3.1.2 Mechanical Supply System
3.1.3 Combined Mechanical
Extract & Supply

3.2 COMPARISON OF ALL TYPES

3.3 CASE STUDY OF UTUSAN

MELAYU BUILDING

3.4 CONCLUSION
3.5 REFERENCES

52
3.0 MECHANICAL VENTILATION

3.1 INTRODUCTION

Mechanical ventilation systems are frequently

found in commercial buildings , workshops
,factories and etc….

They provide fresh air by bringing clean air and

pushing out bad air out via ducts & fans.

Without the aid of mechanical ventilation

systems , the quality of air in a building may
cause moisture ,odors or other pollutants to
circulate around resulting in Sick Building
Syndrome. Diagram 3.1 Example of
mechanical ventilation

Benefits of using mechanical ventilation

1. Improved comfort of occupants

It allows constant flow of outside air into

the building, providing filtration ,
dehumidification and conditioning of the
incoming outside air.

2. Better indoor air quality

Removes pollutants ,allergies and

moisture that can cause mold problems.

3. More air flow control

Providing proper fresh air flow along the

appropriate locations for air intake and
exhaust.

3.2 Types of Mechanical Ventilation Systems

Mechanical systems of ventilation are

conveniently categorised :

1. Mechanical Extract System

2. Mechanical Supply System
3. Combined Mechanical Extract & Supply

53
3.0 MECHANICAL VENTILATION

3.2.1 Mechanical Extract System

This ventilation system requires a natural inlet

and mechanical extract , it is the most common
type of system used.

It can be found in:-

● Kitchens
● Internal sanitary apartments
● Garages
● Assembly halls
● Laboratories

Ductworks is usually hidden within a suspended

ceilings , with fresh air inlets in peripheral
locations .
Figure 3.2 Canteen kitchen.

3..2.2 Mechanical Supply System

Alternately known as mechanical inlet and

natural extract.It is essential that with this system,
the air is usually heated before it is forced out of
the building thus this systems are commonly
found in:-
● Boiler rooms
● Offices
● Factories

The fan creates a negative pressure on the inlet

side that causes air to move towards the fan ,
resulting in room air displacement by fresh air
from the inside.Careful designs & strategically Figure 3.3 diagram of
placing the outlets , it will create slight internal mechanical inlet and natural
pressurization and direct stale air to permeate extract
through the building.

3..2.3 Combined Mechanical Extract & Supply

It is best possible means of a ventilation system ,

however it could be expensive too.It is essential
for rooms that needs to be highly clean such as
operating theatres in hospitals and sterilizing
rooms. The extraction fan is smaller than inlet , to
encourage a little air pressurization

Commonly found in :-
● Cinemas
● Offices
● Lecture theatres 54
● Sports centers Figure 3.4 Ventilation of
● Department stores department stores
3.0 MECHANICAL VENTILATION

3.3 COMPARISONS OF ALL TYPES

TYPES ADVANTAGE DISADVANTAGE

EXTRACT - Relatively - Not suitable for humid

SYSTEM inexpensive and hot climates

- Works well in colder - Increase in electricity

climates bill

- Easy to install - Draw pollutants into

occupied spaces

SUPPLY - Allow filtering of dusts - Unable to remove

SYSTEM and pollen from moisture from incoming
outside air air

- Allow - Increase in
dehumidification of heating/cooling costs
outdoor air
- May cause moisture
- Suitable for warm or problems in colder
four season climates countries

COMBINED - Applicable for all - Costly to maintain and

SYSTEM climates operate

-Most versatile in - Needs professional

usage installation

- Unable to remove
moisture from incoming
air
Table 3.1 Table of comparison

55
3.0 MECHANICAL VENTILATION

3.4 COMPONENTS OF MECHANICAL

VENTILATION SYSTEM

3.4.1 Fans

A ) Propeller Fan

It doesn’t create much air pressure thus it is ideal

use for air openings in windows and walls . It is
also limited effect in ductwork.
Figure 3.5 Types of impellers
B ) Axial Flow Fan

It develops high pressure that is used for moving

air through long sections of ductwork.It does not
required a base as the component is integral with
the run of the ducting.

Figure 3.6 Diagram of propeller

fan

Heavy duty

Figure 3.7 Counter rotating fan

56
3.0 MECHANICAL VENTILATION

C ) Bifurcated Axial Flow Fan

Commonly used for moving hot gases

( grease air ) from places such as kitchens
and commercial cooking areas. Figure 3.8 Bifurcated axial fan

D ) Cross flow/ Tangential Fan

Used in fan converter units.

E ) Centrifugal Fan

It produces higher pressure than the other Figure 3.9 Diagram of

types of fans thus it can carry higher capacity bifurcated axial flow fan
of large volume of air ,making it the most
suitable for larger installations such as
air-conditioning systems.It contains one or
two inlets.

The selection from various form of impeller

depends on the air condition.It is considered
as the most versatile of fans as it has Figure 3.10 showing the air flow
impellers and pulley ratios that is detached
drive motor.

Figure 3.11 Diagram of

tangential fan

Figure 3.12 Centrifugal fan

57
Figure 3.13 Exploded diagram
of fan
3.0 MECHANICAL VENTILATION

3.4.2 Air Filters

Air filters are usually made out of either

fibreglass or pleated paper along with a framing
made for plastic, cardboard or any rigid
material.It filters solid contaminants such as dust,
dirt, pollen or lint thus improving indoor air
quality and providing a conducive environment
for the occupants of the building

There are five types of air filters:- Figure 3.14 varieties of air filters
A ) Dry Filters

Manufactured from dense glass paper in the

pattern of deep pleats that is arranged parallel to
the air flow.

B ) Vicious Filters

.They have high retention capacity to dust and Figure 3.15 Dry filter panel
are often used for industrial applications.It has
close spaced corrugated metal plates that is
coated in non-flammable oil..A rotating variation
has filter plates hung from chains.In
sequence,the plates would remove attached
contaminant by washing through oil
Figure 3.16 Diagram of a cell
panel

Figure 3.17 Rotating viscous

filter

58
Figure 3.18 Oil-sprayed filter
3.0 MECHANICAL VENTILATION

C ) Bag Filter

A form of filtration material providing a large area

to capture dust.It needs wire as reinforcement as
the bag may lay limply when the fan is off.
However, it will resume its horizontal planes
during activated operation of system.

D ) Roller Filter Figure 3.19 Bag filter

It can be operated in two ways :- operated

manually or by pressure sensitive switch. The
pressure effects a detector that engages a motor
to bring the clean fabric down from the top.
Several perforated metal rollers can be used to
vee format and increase the surface of contact. Figure 3.20 Sectional of bag
filter
E ) Electrostatic Unit

This unit can have supplementary,, preliminary

and final filters all in one.It has an ionising area
that gives suspended dust particles a positive
electrostatic charge. Positive charged particles
are repelled by positive plates and attracted to
negative plates, the negative plates are coated
with a thin layer of oil for greater retention of
dust.

Figure 3.21 roller filter

Figure 3.22 Electrostatic unit 59

3.0 MECHANICAL VENTILATION

3.4.3 Diffusers & Grilles

It is an air distribution outlet , usually located in

the ceiling and it has deflecting vanes
discharging supply air in various directions that
is arranged to promote combination of supplied
air with the air inside the occupied space.

Figure 3.23 Diffuser and grill

section

Figure 3.24 Type of diffuser

60
3.0 MECHANICAL VENTILATION

3.5.1 SUPPLY VENTILATION SYSTEM

1. Stairwell Pressurisation System

A pressurization system is intended to prevent

smoke leaking passed closed doors into stairs by
injecting clean air into the stair enclosure via air Air flow
shafts, such that the pressure in the stair is
greater than the adjacent fire compartment.

Figure 2.62 shows one of the ways the

pressurization system is adapted into a building.
Showing how the intake of air flows from the
exterior are mechanically brought in through the
supply air fan and into the air shafts. The air
shafts then supply the air to every level that is
connect via the stairwell.

Figure 3.25 Pressurized

Components of stairwell pressurization system
stairwell simulation
a) Push Button Fire Alarm
○ Are usually nearby the doorways
leading into the stairwell making it
accessible for personnel to trigger
the alarm system in the case of fire.
Refer to figure ****

Figure 3.26 Push Button Fire

Alarm

61
3.0 MECHANICAL VENTILATION

Components of stairwell pressurization system

b) Supply Air Fan

○ Are located on the roof of the
corresponding building attached to
the air shafts. When activated,
influx of air from the exterior is
mechanically pushed into the air
shafts.

c) Pressure Control Dampers

○ Found on the walls of the
corresponding air shafts that are
connected to the stairwells. This is
where the inlet of air from the air
shafts pass through and into the
stairwell, creating positive pressure
in the stairwell and preventing
smoke from the other side of the Figure 3.27 Supply Air Fan
doors to enter through the doorway
slits.

d) Ventilation Grilles
○ Found on the most top floor of the
stairwell. Used to prevent over
pressurization of air in the stairwell,
otherwise, doors will be difficult to
open due to the over pressurization.
Which may result to difficulty in
evacuation.

Figure 3.28 Pressure Control

Dampers

Figure 3.29 Ventilation Grille

62
3.0 MECHANICAL VENTILATION

Location of stairwell pressurization system

Fig. 3.30 Ground Floor Plan,

Enclosed stairwell
Block C

Uniform Building By-Laws 1984

Part VII Fire Requirements

Clause 200: Pressurized System for Staircases.

All staircases serving buildings of more than 45.75 meters in height where there is no
adequate ventilation as required shall be provided with a basic system of
pressurization -

(a) Where the air capacity of the fan shall be sufficient to maintain an air flow of
not less than 60 meters per minute through the doors which are deemed to be
open;
(b) Where the number of doors which are deemed to be opened at the one time
shall be 10% of the total number of door opening into the staircase with a
minimum number of two doors open;
(c) Where with all the doors closed the air pressure differential between the
staircases and the area served by it shall not exceed 5 millimeters water
gauge;
(d) Where the mechanical system to prevent smoke from entering the staircase
shall be automatically activated by a suitable heat detecting service, manual
or automatic alarm or automatic wet pipe sprinkle system;
(e) Which meets the functional requirements as may be agreed with the D.G.F.S. 63
3.0 MECHANICAL VENTILATION

2. Centralised Supply System - Offices

a) Inlet Diffuser
○ Commonly seen type of diffusers to
supply air throughout the offices of
the building are louvre faced.
○ Reasoning:
■ Variety of air patterns.
■ Multi-directional.
■ Uniform with ceiling layout.
■ Ease of maintenance with
regards to replacements and
availability of replacements.
b) Natural Outlet Grille
○ Air outlets to allow air flow from the
interior offices spaces outwards
from the building.
○ This helps to gradually depressurize
the offices spaces, but at same time
maintaining a general positive
pressure.
○ Due to less outlet grilles compared
to the mechanical inlets.

Disclaimer* Figure 3.31 Diffuser

Mentioned by the building’s personnel that the
ducts are remained covered by the plaster
ceiling tiles and hidden out of sight.

Figure 3.32 Natural Inlet Grille

64
3.0 MECHANICAL VENTILATION

3.5.2 Extract Ventilation System

1. Toilet Exhaust System

a) Grilles
○ Located on the toilet ceilings,
extracting air from the toilets and
expelling them out from the
building.

Disclaimer*
Duct works are covered by the ceiling.
Figure 3.33 Toilet Grille

2. Elevator Machine Room

a) Exhaust System
○ Located in the elevator machine
room on the 8th floor of Block C.
○ This room uses two sets of regular
exhaust systems that utilise
propeller fans to ventilate the space
.

Figure 3.34 Exhaust System

Uniform Building By-Laws 1984

Part III Space, Light, Ventilation

Clause 41: Mechanical ventilation and air-conditioning.

(3) The provision of the Third Schedule to these By-laws shall apply to buildings
which are mechanically ventilated or air-conditioned.

Third Schedule (By-law 41)

Clause 10: Water closets, toilets, lavatories, bathrooms, latrines, urinals or similar
rooms or enclosures used for ablutions which are situated in the internal portions of
the building and in respect of which no such external walls (or those overlooking
verandahs, pavements or walkways) are present, shall be provided with mechanical
ventilation or air-conditioning having a minimum of fresh air change at the rate of 0.61
cmm per square metre of floor area of ten air changes per hour, whichever is the
lower.

MS 1525:2014
8.4 Controls
8.4.2 Humidity control
In a system requiring moisture removal to maintain specific selected relative
humidity in spaces or zones, no new source of energy (such as electric reheat)
should be used to produce a space relative humidity below 70 % for comfort cooling 65
purposes.
3.0 MECHANICAL VENTILATION

3.6 CONCLUSION

The building is well equipped with HVAC

systems, though it is not sufficient to maintain a
standard indoor air quality. With their implement
of the aforementioned mechanical ventilation
systems, the building is continuously supplied
with fresh air, in addition to the fire safety
feature such as in the stairwell pressurization
system.

3.7 REFERENCES

Stairwell Pressurisation Systems - Sodeca UK &

Axair Fans. (n.d.). Retrieved from
https://www.axair-fans.co.uk/industrial-applicati
ons-industrial-fans/extract-pressurisation/

Stairwell Pressurisation. (n.d.). Retrieved from

https://www.hendry.com.au/stairwell-pressurisa
tion/

Types of Ventilation Systems. (n.d.). Retrieved

from
https://www.hometips.com/how-it-works/ventil
ation-systems-exhaust.html

SUPPLY VS. EXHAUST mechanical

VENTILATION. (n.d.). Retrieved from
https://www.house-energy.com/House/Supply
VsExhaust.html

Air supply ventilation and energy efficiency. (n.d.).

Retrieved from
http://www.level.org.nz/energy/active-ventilati
on/air-supply-ventilation-systems/

Mechanical ventilation in buildings – what you

need to know. (2018, September 13). Retrieved
from
https://www.thegreenage.co.uk/mechanical-ve
ntilation-in-buildings-what-you-need-to-know/

MECHANICAL / FORCED VENTILATION. (n.d.).

Retrieved from
http://uol-ventilation.weebly.com/mechanical.ht
ml

Mechanical Ventilation. (n.d.). Retrieved from

https://new-learn.info/packages/clear/thermal 66
/buildings/active_systems/mv/index.html
4.0 AIR CONDITIONING SYSTEMS

4.0
AIR CONDITIONING
SYSTEM

4.1 INTRODUCTION

4.2 TYPES OF AIR CYCLES

4.2.1 Refrigerant cycle
4.2.2 Air cycle
4.3 TYPES OF AIR
CONDITIONING
4.3.1 Room Air conditioning
4.3.2 Split Air conditioning
4.3.3 Packaged Air conditioning
4.3.4 Centralised Air conditioning

4.4 CASE STUDY OF UTUSAN

MELAYU BUILDING

4.5 CENTRALIZED AIR

CONDITIONING

4.6 CONCLUSION
67
4.7 REFERENCES
4.0 AIR CONDITIONING SYSTEMS

4.1 INTRODUCTION
Air conditioning also known as A.C system is the
process of altering the state of an occupied
interior space air to achieve a more favorable
environment despite changes in the external
weather conditions or internal head loads.
Generally, these modifications to the internal
space by air conditioning systems are made
through technological means. Air conditioners
are commonly used devices that serve this
purpose by replacing the internal heat with fresh
air and cooling is achieved by means of a
refrigerant cycle.
Factors for using Air- conditioning:
1. Comfort
2. Performance of workers and machinery
3. Equipment
4. Health

Human comfort is concluded by the control of

internal air temperature, humidity and air
Figure 4.1 Diagram showing human
movement, radiant heat and air purity. comfort factors.
4.2 TYPES OF CYCLES IN AIR CONDITIONING

Air conditioning cycles work by removing the

indoor heats and releasing it to the air outdoors.
This process is achieved by two types of cycles;
Refrigerant cycle and Air cycle.

4.2.1 AIR CYCLE

Air cycle is the process that involves

appropriation of treated air to the desired room
that need conditioning. This is achieved by the
removal of heat, from the air inside the room,
through absorption by the evaporator to be
cooled down. The heat can be absorbed by
either water or air as a medium, resulting in a
cooler internal air. The air is supplied and
distributed through chilled water pipes or ducts.

Components required for the Air cycle are:

● Air Handling unit (AHU)

● Air filter
● Blower fan
● Ductwork and diffuser
● Clean air intake 68
● Humidifier and dehumidifier
4.0 AIR CONDITIONING SYSTEMS

4.2.2 REFRIGERANTS

The purpose of a refrigerant cycle is the removal

of heat, called the cooling load, through a low
temperature medium from a colder region to a
hotter area. Naturally, heat is transferred from
high temperature to low temperature, Hence, in
order to achieve the removal of heat to a region
of high temperature, work is required. The
refrigerant works as the medium that absorbs the
indoor heat and eventually emits it outdoors. This
process takes place in the following order:

● Heat from the inside air is absorbed by the

refrigerant in the evaporator, in the form of Figure.4.2 The refrigerant cycle
a low pressure gas

● The low pressure gas enters the

compressor where it is compressed and
then moves out as a high pressure gas.

● The gas then enters the condenser where

it condenses to a liquid and gives off it’s
heat to the outside air.

● The liquid then moves to the expansion

valve under high pressure where the flow
of the liquid is restricted resulting in a low
pressure as the fluid leaves the valve

● The low pressure liquid then moves to the

evaporator where the whole cycle is
repeated.

69
4.0 AIR CONDITIONING SYSTEMS

4.3 TYPES OF AIR CONDITIONING SYSTEMS

There are 4 types of air conditioning system. The

type of system used depends on the building
size and function.

Figure 4.3 Room air conditioner facing the

interior space
1. Room Air conditioners

Room air conditioners are designed to be

installed in window frames or in a
measured and prepared wall hole.In this
air conditioner all the components, namely
the compressor, condenser, expansion
valve or coil, evaporator and cooling coil
are enclosed in a single box They are
secured in these openings with the hot air
Figure 4.4 Diagram showing the components in a
exhaust system facing the outside and the room air conditioner
cool air return system facing the inside
with a partition in between.They are
efficient options that can cool small or
large rooms without costly installation.

2. Split air conditioner

Figure 4.5. Connection between
Split air conditioners are the most popular outdoor and indoor split conditioning
units
type of air conditioner popular for it’s high
efficiency cooling, noiseless operation,
modern look and easy installment. They
are not self contained and neither do they
require ducting like central air
conditioners. Split air conditioner
comprises of 2 units; Outdoor unit and the
indoor unit. The outdoor unit is kept
outdoors and contains components such
as the compressor, expansion valve and
condenser. The indoor unit does not
Figure 4.6 Diagram showing
require any slots or holes in the wall for relationship between the indoor and
installation. It comprises of the evaporator, the outdoor unit
the cooling coil and cooling fan. 70
4.0 AIR CONDITIONING SYSTEMS

3. Packaged unit air conditioning system

Packaged air conditioners are also a

popular choice for medium sized buildings
capable of cooling halls or a large space.
They are similar to room air conditioners
but larger in size. They are easy to install
without causing any kind of obstruction.
All the important components of the
system such as the compressor, cooling
coil, air handling unit and the filter are
enclosed in a single casing. Depending on
the type of cooling system adapted in the Figure 4.7 Packaged air conditioning
system in a house
system, the packaged unit air conditioners
are categorized into two types; One with
water cooled condensers and one with air
cooled condensers.

In water cooled packaged condenser, the

indoor heat is removed by a continuous
supply of water enclosed in a single indoor
unit with a refrigerant.,

In an Air cooled packaged condenser, the

condensers are cooled by the atmospheric
air. The outdoor unit is kept on the rooftop Figure 4.8 Components of a packaged
or a terrace where it can be exposed to air conditioner
the wind while the indoor unit is hanged on
the ceiling or located on the floor is
connected to the cooling outdoor unit via
a duct. The duct brings in the cool air.

71
4.0 AIR CONDITIONING SYSTEMS

4. Centralised air conditioning

Central air conditioning systems are used

for applications like large building having
multiple floors where high cooling loads
are required. They are installed during
construction of the building for spatial
planning purposes. The Centralized air
conditioning systems components such as
the expansion valve, evaporator,
condenser and compressor, perform
functions that are similar to the refrigerant
system only much larger in size. They have
a higher capacity and the components are
kept within a large plant room.

There are two types of centralised air

conditioning plant; Direct expansion and
water chilled air conditioner.
Figure 4.9 Diagram shows the units
and connection in a centralised air
conditioner
Inside the plants system, the refrigerant in
the plant room is cooled which is then
distributed to Air handling units located in
various room around the building. The
treated air is then passed into the room by
the Air handling units and the heat
absorbed to be brought back to the plant
room for retreatment.

Figure 4.10. Components and

refrigerant cycle in a centralised
conditioning system

72
4.0 AIR CONDITIONING SYSTEMS

4.4 CASE STUDY FOR UTUSAN MELAYU

BUILDING

Utusan Malaysia Berhad is a medium sized office

building comprising of 9 floors. Due to it’s scale,
an extensive and powerful air conditioning
system is required. For this reason, the building
makes use of Centralised Air conditioning
system. The picture on the right shows the
section of the system in Block A of Utusan
Malaysia Berhad.

4.4.1 CENTRALIZED AIR CONDITIONER

Centralised Air conditioning system is more

Figure 4.11 Sectional layout of the
convenient for conditioning purposes in a large centralised system in Utusan Malaysia
building. The overall system comprises of a few Berhad
units that need to work together in order for the
system to function. The cooling tower as well as
the plant room consisting of the water cooled
chiller system, are located in an open space on
the 8th level in Utusan Malaysia Berhad. The Air
Handling units (AHU) and the Fan coil units are
connected by an extensive ductwork that are
spread throughout the building to provide
cooling to every space. These components work
together in achieving a comfortable indoor
environment.

Figure 4.12 Diagram illustrating the

connection between the units and
the flow of the liquid

73
4.0 AIR CONDITIONING SYSTEMS

Figure 4.13 Floor plan of the 8th floor showing the location
of the plant room and the Cooling tower.

Water storage tank

Condenser and
evaporator cylinders Cooling tower

Liquid pumps

74
Figure 4.14 Plant room with the chiller system and the
water pumps
4.0 AIR CONDITIONING SYSTEMS

1. Cooling Tower

Cooling tower is a mechanical device used

to facilitate heat exchange from the water
in the chillers to the atmosphere.There are
6 crossflow induced draft water chillers
used in Utusan Malaysia Berhad. They are
located in an open space on the 8th level
to achieve optimum cooling.This exchange
is achieved by the release of latent heat of
vaporization, causing a cooling effect to Figure 4.15 Diagram showing cooling
the water and bringing it to about wet bulb tower component, air flow and water flow
temperature.

The water, on reaching the cooling tower,

flows vertically through the hot water
basin mounted on top of the fills, while the
air flows horizontally, across the flow of
the falling water. Electric motor- driven
fans are mounted on top of the unit and
pull the moisture laden air through the fill
media, out of the unit. The cooled water is
then pumped via the condenser pump to
Figure 4.16 The fans on top of the
the chill water pump and enters the cooling tower
chillers. A water storage tank is ducted to
the cooling tower to replace the water loss
due to evaporation.

Figure 4.17 Showing the inside of the

cooling tower

75
4.0 AIR CONDITIONING SYSTEMS

Cooling Tower air inlet

The photograph above shows the louvered sides

of the cooling tower. These allow air to enter the
unit and cool the heated water. The air that
enters the unit is then pulled up by fans installed
on top.

Figure 4.18 shows the cooling tower

kept in an open space

76
4.0 AIR CONDITIONING SYSTEMS

2. Water cooled chiller system

Water chillers are connected to the

cooling tower to facilitate and further
increase the rate of the cooling process.
There are 3 water chillers placed inside a
plant room on the 8th level, directly
connected to the cooling tower outside
the room. The cooling tower reject the
heat from the building while the
evaporator in the chillers further extracts
the heat and generates chilled water that
is pumped by the chilled water pump to Figure 4.19 Chillers inside the plant
the Air Handling Units distributed room in Utusan Berhad Malaysia
throughout the building.

Components of the Water cooled chiller system

A. Compressor
The compressor pumps the refrigerant
through the system at a designated flow
rate and pressure to the condenser. The
refrigerant enters the compressor from the
suction side in vapour state and
compresses it as it is being pumped
through causing an increase in the
temperature and the pressure.
Figure 4.20 Picture showing the side
view of one chiller comprised of the
B. Condenser compressor and evaporator
The condenser acts as a heat exchanger,
removing the heat from the refrigerant
picked up in the evaporator. The
refrigerant condenses as it passes its heat
to the cooling water. The high pressure
refrigerant then enters the expansion
valve.

C. Expansion Valve
The expansion valve lowers the pressure
and increase the volume of the refrigerant
before it flows to the evaporator, allowing
it to pick up unwanted heat from the
evaporator.

D. Evaporator
The evaporator also works as a heat
exchanger between the water and the
refrigerant. The water flowing from its
respective coil cools as the heat is
extracted by the refrigerant. This chilled 77
water is then pumped to the AHU to
provide air conditioning.
4.0 AIR CONDITIONING SYSTEMS

1. Air Handling Unit (AHU)

Air Handling unit is an equipment that is

used to condition and circulate treated air
as a component of the air conditioning
system. It also extracts the hot indoor air
and returns the air to the evaporator to be
treated again. The AHU’s are large metal
boxes that contains a centrifugal fan,
heating and cooling element, filter
chambers and dehumidifier. The AHU is
connected to ductwork that in turn, Figure 4.21 Air Handling Unit
distributes the conditioned air throughout compartment
the building before returning it to the AHU.
In Utusan Malaysia Berhad, a AHU is
placed in a room on each floor.

78
4.0 AIR CONDITIONING SYSTEMS

Components of Air handling unit

1. Air filter
The treated air in the AHU passes through the air
filters where dust particles and other
contaminants are collected ensuring the quality
Figure 4.22 Diagram showing the air
of the air before being passed to the ductwork filter placement in AHU
for distribution throughout the building. Air filters
also ensure the overall life of an AHU,

2. Centrifugal fan
The blower performs the function of creating the
current of the air. The air collected by the blower
is conditioned and then released into the
building via the ductwork. Centrifugal fan is
facilitated by a motor to provide high efficiency
Figure 4. 23 Centrifugal fan and motor
over a wide operating rate and is quieter than
inside the AHU compartment
most motors.

3. Cooling Coil
The cooling coils work to remove heat from the
refrigerant. They are made of copper and coiled
to increase the surface area for heat exchange,
cooling the air before being passed into the
Figure 4. 24 Diagram showing cooling
ductwork. coil in AHU

4. Humidifier
A humidifier is placed in the AHU to control and
set the humidity of the air and provide a
comfortable and healthy environment in the
space the conditioning works for. In the absence
of this component, air maybe too dry due to the Figure 4. 25 Diagram showing
constant heating. humidifier placement in AHU

5. Refrigerant exchange pipe

The pipes connected to the AHU are labelled to
distinguish between the pipe connected to the
heat exchanger and the pipe that brings supplies
water from the chiller to the heat exchanger.

Figure 4.26 Cross section displaying

AHU components

79
4.0 AIR CONDITIONING SYSTEMS

4.5.4 AIR DUCT WORK

Ductwork is used to distribute the treated air

from the AHU throughout the interior spaces of
the building. The required airflows include supply
air and return air. For which two different duct
systems are required. One that carries the
conditioned air to the building spaces and one
that collects the warm air returns it to the AHU.
The air ducts are made from galvanised steel and Figure 4.27 Aluminium ductwork and
blower fans are installed within the ducts to piping
provide air circulation within the system.

4.5.5 DIFFUSERS

Diffusers are installed to equally distribute the

conditioned air throughout the building by
slowing the velocity of the air and increasing it’s
static pressure. In Utusan Malaysia Berhad,
ceiling diffusers as well as diffusers connected to
Figure 4.28 supply diffuser on the
ducts can be found throughout the building to ceiling
provide a comfortable flow of conditioned air.

4.5.6 FAN COIL UNIT

A fan coil unit is a device that is used to control

the temperature in the space where it is installed.
It contains a cooling coil and a fan to circulate the
cool air at specific controlled air temperature and
speed. There are Fan coil units installed mainly
in private offices and conference rooms on every Figure 4.29 Fan coil unit on the
level in Utusan Malaysia Berhad. ceiling

4.5.7 AIR COOLED SPLIT UNIT

The split units are inverted units that allow the

desired temperature to be achieved at a faster
rate. These units are only found in the control
rooms in Utusan Malaysia Berhad.
Figure 4.30 Unit installed in the control 80
room
4.0 AIR CONDITIONING SYSTEMS

UBBL 1984 Section 41: Mechanical ventilation and

air conditioning

(1) Where permanent mechanical ventilation

or air-conditioning is intended, the relevant
building by-laws relation to natural
ventilation, natural lighting and height of
rooms may be waived at the discretion of
the local authority.
(2) Any application for the waiver of the
relevant bylaws shall only be considered if
in addition to the permanent
air-conditioning system there is provided
alternative approved means of ventilating
the air conditioned enclosure, such that
within half an hour of the air-conditioning
system failing, not less that the stipulated
volume of fresh air specified hereinafter
shall be introduced into the enclosure
during the period when the
air-conditioning system is not functioning.
(3) The provisions of the Third Schedule to
these Bylaws shall apply to buildings
which are mechanically ventilated or
air-conditioned.
(4) Where permanent mechanical ventilation
in respect of lavatories, water-closets,
bathrooms or corridors is provided for and
maintained in accordance with the
requirements of the Third Schedule to
these Bylaws, the provisions of these
Bylaws relating to natural ventilation and
natural lighting shall not apply to such
lavatories, water-closets, bathrooms or
corridors.

4.6 CONCLUSION

To conclude, Utusan Malaysia Berhad complies

with all the above stated UBBL requirements by
the installation of Centralized air conditioning
system. It provides a comfortable internal
environment and air quality. Their systems are in
good condition and maintained.

81
4.0 AIR CONDITIONING SYSTEMS

4.7 REFERENCES

Cooling Tower System. (n.d). Retrieved from

https://www.cti.org/whatis/coolingtowerdetail.s
html

Cooling Tower Components. (n.d). Retrieved

from
https://deltacooling.com/resources/faqs/what-
is-a-cooling-tower

Air Conditioning Cycle. (n.d). Retrieved from

https://www.mobileair.com/tools/refrigeration-
cycle-how-air-conditioner-works

Water Cooled Chiller. (n.d). Retrieved from

http://www.coolingtechnology.com/about_proc
ess_cooling/water-cooled-chiller/default.html

Water Cooled Chiller Components. (n.d).

Retrieved from
http://theengineeringmindset.com/chillers-mai
n-components/

Air Handling Unit. (n.d). Retrieved from

http://www.mynewsdesk.com/in/pressreleases
/functions-of-an-air-handling-unit-and-its-comp
onents-718365

Fan Coil Unit. (n.d). Retrieved from

http://www.betterbuildingspartnership.com.au/i
nformation/fan-coil-unit-systems/

Types of Air Conditioning. (n.d). Retrieved from

https://www.swtc.edu/Ag_Power/air_conditioni
ng/lecture/basic_cycle.htm

82
5.0 MECHANICAL TRANSPORTATION

5.0
MECHANICAL
TRANSPORTATION
5.1 INTRODUCTION

5.2 ELEVATORS
5.2.1 Introduction of elevators
5.2.2 Types of elevator systems

5.3 CASE STUDY OF UTUSAN

MELAYU BUILDING
5.3.1 Introduction and function
5.3.2 Components of elevator

5.4 OPERATION OF SYSTEM

5.5 OBSERVATION AND

ANALYSIS
5.5.1 Location of elevators
5.5.2 Analysis of Utusan melayu
building
5.6 UNIFORM BUILDING BY LAW

5.7 CONCLUSION 83
5.8 REFERENCES
5.0 MECHANICAL TRANSPORTATION

5.1 INTRODUCTION

Mechanical transportation systems is a integral

part of modern buildings and developments that
is used to transport goods and people both
vertically and horizontally. The most common
type of transport systems found in buildings are
lifts/elevators, escalators and travelators.

Figure 5.0 shows a travelator sign

5.2.0 ELEVATORS Source:https://thenounproject.com/ter
m/moving-walkway/
5.2.1 INTRODUCTION

Elevators are known as lifts in commonwealth

countries. An elevator is is a type of vertical
transport equipment that efficiently moves
people or goods between floors (levels,decks) of
a building, vessel or other structure. Elevators are
generally powered by electric motors that either
drive traction cables or counterweight systems
like a hoist, or pump hydraulic fluid to raise a
cylindrical piston like a jack.
Figure 5.1 shows an escalator sign
Specification of an elevator must include: Source:https://cdn.pixabay.com/photo
/2012/04/28/18/56/electric-44016_96
0_720.png
● The type of elevator, rate, load, speed
● Number of openings and landings
● Type of control and supervisory system
● Details of the cars and shaft doors
● Signal equipment
● Characteristics of power supply
● Finishes

Factors to determine the number of lifts:

● Population of the building

● Type of building occupancy
● Numbers of floors and height of the
building
● Initial cost
● Maintenance cost

Location of lift
Figure 5.2 shows an elevator sign
Elevator signs call out emergency
The position of the lift should be at a location precautions as well as help visitors
which provide easy means of access for the and workers find their way around
building users. your facility.
Source:https://mbtskoudsalg.com/ima
ges/elevator-vector-symbol-3.png

84
5.0 MECHANICAL TRANSPORTATION

Criteria of elevator system

Three basic criteria to consider when designing

the elevator systems for a building:

● The capacity of the elevator (number of

persons)
● The speed of the elevator (mpm)
● The number of the elevators required

These criteria applied based on the type of

building which is:

● Office
● Apartment
● Hotel

Office
An elevator to every 250 persons, i.e if the
building occupancy is 1000 persons, the number
of elevators required will be 1000/250 = 4
(elevators).
Speed of the elevator shall be selected by
multiplying the number of storey of the building
by 10, i.e speed of elevators shall be 15x10 = 150
(mpm).
Capacity of the elevator for small office buildings
can be either 13 or 15 persons while larger
building requires 17 persons or more.

Apartment
An elevator to every 500 occupants. Speed of
the elevator can be half of the speed for office
building. Usually smaller capacity elevator is
used. However 15 persons capacity stretcher
type elevator is the popular choice.

Hotel
An elevator to every 150 guest. Speed of
elevator is 7.5 times the number of storey of the
building
Depending on the type of building, one can
choose something close to the above by going 1
or 2 notch lower or 1 notch higher.

85
5.0 MECHANICAL TRANSPORTATION

5.2.2 TYPES OF ELEVATOR SYSTEM

There are two main types of elevators commonly

used in a building:
(A) Traction elevator
(B) Hydraulic elevator

(A) TRACTION ELEVATOR / ELECTRIC

ELEVATOR

Traction elevators are the most common type of

elevators. They are lifted by ropes, which pass
over a wheel attached to an electric motor above
the elevator shaft. Sometimes two elevators are
built so that their cars always move
synchronously in opposite directions, and are
each other's counterweight. Traction elevators
have 3 main types which are:

Figure 5.3 show geared traction

elevator component
Geared Traction Elevators
Source:https://www.mrn-china.org/elec
tric-elevator-vs-hydraulic-elevator.html
Geared traction machines are driven by AC or DC
electric motors. They use worm gears to control
mechanical movement of elevator cars by
"rolling" steel hoist ropes over a drive sheave
which is attached to a gearbox driven by a high
speed motor. They are capable of travel speeds
up to 152m per minute.

Gearless Traction Elevators

Gearless traction machines are low speed, high

torque electric motors powered either by AC or
DC. In this case, the drive sheave is directly
attached to the end of the motor. Gearless
traction elevators are capable of speed up to
610m per minute.

Figure 5.4 show gearless traction

elevator component
Source:http://www.electrical-knowhow.
com/2012/04/elevators-types-and-clas
sification-part.html
86
5.0 MECHANICAL TRANSPORTATION

Machine Room-less Elevators

The traction version of the machine room less

(MRL) elevators are usually implemented with
the smaller gearless traction motor that can
place the inside the shaft to make the spaces not
reduced by the large size motor.
Machine-room-less elevators are becoming
more common; however, many maintenance
departments do not like them due to the hassle
of working on a ladder as opposed to within a
room.

(B) HYDRAULIC ELEVATORS

Figure 5.5 show Machine Room-less
Hydraulic elevators are elevators which are Elevator components
Source:http://www.electrical-knowhow.
powered by a piston that travels inside a cylinder.
com/2012/04/elevators-types-and-clas
An electric motor pumps hydraulic oil into the sification-part.html
cylinder to move the piston. The piston smoothly
lifts the elevator cab. Electrical valves control the
release of the oil for a gentle descent.
Conventional hydraulic elevators. They use an
underground cylinder, are quite common for low
level buildings with 2– 5 floors (sometimes but
seldom up to 6–8 floors), and have speeds of up
to 200 feet per minute (1.0 m/s). There are three
types of hydraulic elevator; holed hydraulic,
holeless hydraulic and roped hydraulic.

Benefits of Hydraulic Elevators:

● No need for reinforcement. The
cylinder that lifts the elevator cab is
supported by the ground underneath
(for holed hydraulic only).
● Are usually cheaper than traction Figure 5.6 show how this system
units. works. The cylinder is connected to a
● If the line breaks, the elevator will fall fluid-pumping system (typically,
no faster than oil can escape. hydraulic systems like this use oil, but
● Acceleration and travel very smooth other incompressible fluids would
also work). The hydraulic system has
● Extremely accurate floor leveling can three parts:
be achieved
· A tank (the fluid reservoir)
· A pump, powered by an electric
motor
· A valve between the cylinder
and the reservoir

Source:http://astepaboveelevator.co
m/elevators101.html
87
5.0 MECHANICAL TRANSPORTATION

5.3 CASE STUDY

5.3.1 INTRODUCTION AND FUNCTION

The type of elevator that is found in Utusan

Malaysia Berhad Headquarters is passenger
elevator. The Utusan Malaysia Berhad building
contains 8 passenger elevators.

5.3.2 COMPONENTS OF ELEVATOR

There are five components of an elevator:

● Control system
● Electric Motor
Figure 5.7 show the passenger
● Hoistway elevator
● Lift car

1. CONTROL SYSTEM

Elevator control system is the system

responsible for coordinating all aspects of
elevator service such as travel, speed, and
accelerating, decelerating, door opening and
delay, leveling and hall lantern signals. It accepts
inputs such as button signals and produces
outputs which are elevator cars moving, doors
opening, etc. The aim of the elevator control
system are:
Figure 5.8 show the motor room
Source:https://www.slideshare.net/ar
● To bring the lift car to the correct floor kam_slideshare/transportation-syste
● To minimize travel time ms-in-buildings
● To maximize passenger comfort by
providing a smooth ride To accelerate,
decelerate and travel within safe speed
limits

2. ELECTRIC MOTOR

Electrical Motor is used to raise and lower the

elevator cab, the direction of motor rotation and
speed (revolutions per minute) are directed and
supervised by devices located within the
elevator controller. In Utusan Malaysia Berhad
Hq, the electric motor is placed in a motor room
which is usually sited at the top of the lift shaft
containing winding gear, traction sheave, control
panel, over-speed governor and other Figure 5.9 show the electric motor of
components. It is also well ventilated. Utusan Malaysia Berhad 88
Headquarters
5.0 MECHANICAL TRANSPORTATION

3. HOISTWAY

Hoistway is the space enclosed by fireproof walls

and elevator doors for the travel of one or more
elevators, dumbwaiters or material lifts. It
includes the pit and terminates at the underside
of the overhead machinery space floor or grating
or at the underside of the roof where the
hoistway does not penetrate the roof. Hoistway is
sometimes called "hatchway" or "hatch".

Hoistway is equipped with the following

components:
1. Guide rails for both the car and
counterweight.
2. Counterweight.
3. Suspension (Hoisting) Ropes (Cables).
4. Landing (Hoistway) doors.
5. Buffers in the pit.

Figure 5.10 shows component of

Guide Rails are Steel Tracks in the form of a “T” hoistway
that run the length of the hoistway, round, or Source:http://www.electrical-knowho
formed sections. Mounted on both sides of the w.com/2012/04/basic-elevator-comp
lift shaft which is attached to the wheel of the onents-part-two.html
car. Usually mounted to the sides of the
hoistway. It is a safety device to hold the lift from
crashing down if the rope breaks.

Counterweight is A tracked weight that is

suspended from cables and moves within its
own set of guide rails along the hoistway walls.
Counterweight is used for reducing the
necessary consumed power for moving the
elevator and Balancing the mass of the complete
car and a portion of rated load, and it will be
equal to the dead weight of the car plus about
40% of the rated load.

A Buffer is a device designed to stop a

descending car or counterweight beyond its
normal limit and to soften the force with which
the elevator runs into the pit during an
emergency. They may be of polyurethane or oil
type in respect of the rated speed. Figure 5.11 shows component of
counterweight
Source:http://www.electrical-knowho
w.com/2012/04/basic-elevator-comp 89
onents-part-two.html
5.0 MECHANICAL TRANSPORTATION

4. LIFT CAR

Lift car is the vehicle that travels between the

different elevator stops carrying passengers and
goods. The main components in the car is car
operating panels, car door operating device, wall
panels, floor, interior lighting and ventilator.

In Utusan Malaysia Berhad, the elevator car is

composed of the following components:

1. Car sling, is load carrier element in the

elevator car as well as its function of
isolating vibrations due to running.

2. The elevator cabin

3. Mechanical accessories which are: Figure 5.12 shows component of lift

car
Source:http://www.electrical-knowho
● Car door and door operator. The elevator w.com/2012/04/basic-elevator-comp
onents-part-one.html
is a two-speed central opening door.
During the opening, two of the panels at
left and right will move in opposite
directions. The opening and closing of the
door operator is controlled by a
motor-driven device that is mounted on
the elevator car.

● Guide shoes, are devices used mainly to

guide the car and counterweight along the
path of the guide rails. They also assure
that the lateral motion of the car and
counterweight is kept at a minimum as
they travel along the guide rails.

● Door protective device, prevents

Figure 5.13 shows types of door
passengers from being caught by the opener system
doors, using multiple infrared light beams Source:https://www.slideshare.net/ar
mounted along the entire length of car kam_slideshare/transportation-syste
door edge. Doors reverse and open if ms-in-buildings
beams are blocked during door closing

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5.0 MECHANICAL TRANSPORTATION

5.4 OPERATION OF SYSTEM

The operation of system is composed of:

● Automatic
Response to one call from either lift car or
landing. No further calls are accepted until the
car is at rest. Only suited to light occupancy and
low-rise buildings up to five floors.

● Call Button
A call button is located at each landing entrance Figure 5.14 shows Multi-Beam Door
and a set of buttons in the car corresponds to Sensor
Source:https://www.slideshare.net/ar
each floor. Landing calls are stored and
kam_slideshare/transportation-syste
answered in sequence as the lift car descends. In ms-in-buildings
upward direction, passengers are distributed in
floor sequence by selection within the car.

● Group collective
Applied where groups of lifts occur in large
buildings, using an interconnected collective
stored control system This permits the closest lift
traveling in the desired direction to respond,
rather than passengers waiting for one specific
lift or having to press every lift’s button.

● Programmed control
This is an improvement of the group collective
system, incorporating time-controlled functions,
where demand is known to be particularly high
on some floors at certain times. Figure 5.15 shows a standard elevator
button panel
Source:http://www.electrical-knowho
● Breakdown w.com/2012/04/elevator-control-syst
In case of breakdown, the elevator company, the em-part-two.html
MS Elevators Engineering Sdn Bhd will be
contacted. A 24 hours hotline number is assigned
for the call centre. All incoming complaints or
break down will be handled by the engineer.
Upon receiving any breakdown call, the engineer
will immediately contact the technicians at
respective zones. Man-trapped and emergency
cases will be attended within 30 to 45 minutes
and normal breakdown cases will be attended to
within two (2) hours barring any unforeseen
circumstances.

Figure 5.16 shows Input and Output

Operation
Source:http://www.electrical-knowh 91
ow.com/2012/04/elevator-control-s
ystem.html
5.0 MECHANICAL TRANSPORTATION

5.5 OBSERVATION AND ANALYSIS

5.5.1 Location of Elevators Elevators

Block B, 2 Passenger Elevators,

from Level 1 to Level 7
Block A, 4 Passenger Elevators

Figure 5.17: Level 1 indicating the location of the elevators

Block C, 2 Passenger
Elevators

Figure 5.18: Level 2 indicating the location of the elevators

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5.0 MECHANICAL TRANSPORTATION

Elevators

Figure 5.19: Level 3 indicating the location of the elevators

Figure 5.20: Level 4 indicating the location of the elevators

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5.0 MECHANICAL TRANSPORTATION

Elevators

Figure 5.21: Level 5 indicating the location of the elevators

Figure 5.22: Level 6 indicating the location of the elevators

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5.0 MECHANICAL TRANSPORTATION

Elevators

Figure 5.23: Level 7 indicating the location of the elevators

Block A, 1 Elevator, From

level 1 to level 8

Figure 5.24: Level 8 indicating the location of the elevator

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5.0 MECHANICAL TRANSPORTATION

5.5.2 Analysis of Utusan Malaysia Berhad Building

Utusan Malaysia Berhad building contains 8

passenger elevators. Only one elevator is linked
from the lowest level, which is Level 1 all the way
up to the highest floor, which is on the rooftop
which is level 8. In block A there are 4 elevators
and block B, 2 elevators and block C, 2 elevators.
The position of elevators on each floor is located
at the same area based on the shown plan.

The travel speed ranges from 60mpm to

360mpm. The load capacity ranges from 8
persons (540 kg) to 24 persons (1600 kg) per car.
Besides, the elevator brand used in the building
is known as MS Elevators Engineering Sdn Bhd.
These MS Elevators Engineering Sdn Bhd
elevators use Permanent Magnet Gearless
(PMGL) machine that is designed, engineered Figure 5.25 shows the control panel
and manufactured at global facilities. The MS of the elevators
Elevators Engineering Sdn Bhd elevator reduces Elevator Concepts utilizes a special
type of industrial computer called a
overall energy consumption and offers flexible Programmable Logic Controller PLC
installation. The elevators used in the building are to control the logic of more complex
traction machines driven by AC or DC electric jobs. They are very dependable,
motors. During emergency, lifts will also compact, and simple to troubleshoot.
automatically move to the ground floor for
passengers to exit.

Based on our observation, the human flow of

circulation and the hierarchy of the interior space
of Utusan Malaysia Berhad does have an
influence to the location of elevators. Elevator is
at the front of the building, near to the main
entrance which is visible to the visitors as they
enter the main entrance. Hence, this enables the
visitors to find elevators easily. Figure 5.26 shows the electric motor
of the elevator

Based on the floor plan, it is observed that the

passenger elevators are placed side by side to
cater for more people, hence allowing a more
smooth flow of circulation without congesting
the space when visitor are ascending or
descending the building.

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5.0 MECHANICAL TRANSPORTATION

The elevator consists of guardrails that wrap

around the interior perimeter of the wall for
support and safety reasons. It was noticed that
the ceiling of the lift is made out of perforated
metal sheet and opaque glass to allow subtle
penetration of artificial lighting into the space
The ceiling is designed as so to help hide the
services or fixtures of the electrical and lightning
system within the lift car.
Figure 5.27 shows the guardrails of
The elevator control buttons that are placed on the elevator
the left hand side of the wall next to the interior
side of the automatic sliding door. The control
buttons indicate the floors the lift is able to
access to, the opening and closing buttons as
well as the emergency lock on the lift control
panel. Besides, the top part of the left wall above
the control button panel shows the indication of
the maximum load capacity that can be
withstand by the elevator, which is 1600 kg or 24
persons per car, and the brand of the elevator,
known as MS Elevators Engineering Sdn Bhd as
well as the certified code given under the
Malaysia license of Uniform Building by law. All
these indications and buttons are the main
requirement needed for every lift.

Figure 5.28 shows the elevator

control buttons

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5.0 MECHANICAL TRANSPORTATION

5.6 UNIFORM BUILDING BY LAW (Licensed to

Malaysia Standards Ms 1331:2003)

5.6.1 Lift

1. Every lift forming part of the vertical access for

disabled people should have an unobstructed
depth in front of the lift doors of not less than
1800mm.

2. It should maintain a floor level accuracy within

a tolerance of 10mm throughout the range of
rated load.

3. The handrail in the lift car should not be less

than 600 mm long at 1000mm above the finished
floor level and should be fixed adjacent to the
control panel.

4. At least one lift car, adjacent to a public

entrance that is accessible for disabled persons
should be designed as a lift for wheelchair users,
complying to all the sub-clauses of this clause,
and should have space for a wheelchair to be
turned through 180° inside the lift.

5.6.2 Lift Door

Installation should provide the following: i. The lift

doors should be power operated

ii. A clear opening of not less than 1000 mm

should be provided.

iii. Sensor devices should be provided to ensure

that the lift car and landing doors would not
close while the opening is not obstructed,
subject to the nudging provisions which operate
if the door should not be less than 5 seconds and
the closing speed should not exceed 0.25 m/s.

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5.0 MECHANICAL TRANSPORTATION

5.6.3 Lift Controls

Should comply with the following:

i. Controls should be clearly indicated and easily
operated in accordance with Clause 27 of MS
1184-2002.

ii. Call buttons should either project from or be

flush with the face of the car- operating panel.
The width or diameter of the buttons should not
be less than 20 mm.

iii. Floor buttons, alarm buttons or emergency

telephone and door control buttons in lift cars
and lobbies should not be higher than 1400 mm
above finished floor level. The hearing impaired
can use an alarm button and not the emergency
telephone. An alarm button should always be
provided, and preferably of a design, which lights
up and produce sound when pressed to reassure
those trapped inside.

iv. All buttons should be designed such that the

visually impaired can identify them by touch.
Buttons, which are not designed as such are best
modified by fixing embossed or braille numbers
or letters next to the lift buttons.

5.6.4 Lift Indicators

Should be provided in accordance with the

following:
i. ‘Lift coming’ indicators should be provided at
each landing.

ii. Indicators should be provided at each lift lobby

to show the position and direction of motion of
the lift car. Alternatively, an audible indicator
should be provided indicate in advance the
arrival of the lift car and its direction of travel.

iii. An indicator inside the car should signal clearly

the direction of travel and the floor at which the
lift car is situated.

iv. Embossed braille numbering indicating each

floor level should be provided beside the outside
call button.

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5.0 MECHANICAL TRANSPORTATION

5.6.5 Handrails

Handrails should be:

a) Fixed not less than 840 mm or more than 900
mm from finished floor level, extended in the
case of ramp or stairway by 300 mm.

b) Fixed securely with its ends turned away or

turned downwards for not less than 100 mm.

ii. Call buttons should either project from or be

flush with the face of the car- operating panel.
The width or diameter of the buttons should not
be less than 20 mm.

iii. Floor buttons, alarm buttons or emergency

telephone and door control buttons in lift cars
and lobbies should not be higher than 1400 mm
above finished floor level. The hearing impaired
can use an alarm button and not the emergency
telephone. An alarm button should always be
provided, and preferably of a design, which
lights up and produce sound when pressed to
reassure those trapped inside.

iv. All buttons should be designed such that the

visually impaired can identify them by touch.
Buttons, which are not designed as such are best
modified by fixing embossed or braille numbers
or letters next to the lift buttons.

5.6.6 Lift Pit

i. Pits must be fire-resistive as should be the

partitions between elevator pits.

ii. Permanent provisions must be made to

prevent accumulation of water in the pit. Pits
should be waterproofed and/or sealed.

iii. Drains and pumps must comply to the

plumbing code and steps should be taken to
prevent water, gas and odors from entering the
pit.

5.7 CONCLUSION

In conclusion, the Utusan Malaysia building

complies with the UBBL requirements regarding
lift systems.
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 5.0 MECHANICAL TRANSPORTATION

5.8 REFERENCES

1. Elevator criteria -MS group of companies (n.d.). Retrieved from

https://www.msee.com.my/elevators.php
2. Elevator component - Slideshare (n.d.). Retrieved from
https://www.slideshare.net/arkam_slideshare/transportation-systems-in-buildings
3. Elevator component - Know how (n.d.). Retrieved from
http://www.electrical-knowhow.com/2012/04/basic-elevator-components-part-two.ht
ml
4. Transport system - Know how (n.d.). Retrieved from
http://www.electrical-knowhow.com/2012/05/course-elev-1-introduction-to.html
5. Elevator safety - Know how (n.d.). Retrieved from
http://www.electrical-knowhow.com/2012/04/elevator-safety-system.html
6. Elevator machine and drive system - Know how (n.d.). Retrieved from
http://www.electrical-knowhow.com/2012/04/elevator-machine-and-drive-system.ht
ml
7. Lift system - Slideshare (n.d.). Retrieved from
https://www.slideshare.net/MitaliGondaliya/lifts-46213003
8. Elevator control system - Know how (n.d.). Retrieved from
http://www.electrical-knowhow.com/2012/04/elevator-control-system.html
9. Introduction to elevator- Vintec (n.d.). Retrieved from
http://vintecelevators.com/passenger-lift/
10. Elevator function and part- Vintec (n.d.). Retrieved from
http://vintecelevators.com/parts-elevator-function/
11. Elevator function and part- Career Trend (n.d.). Retrieved from
https://careertrend.com/info-8485788-parts-elevator.html
12. Elevator components - Lift Equip (n.d.). Retrieved from
https://www.liftequip.de/public/01_ElevatorComponents_EN_Interaktiv-09-2017.pdf
13. Elevator system and components - Wikia (n.d.). Retrieved from
http://elevation.wikia.com/wiki/Elevator
14. Ubbl - Slideshare (n.d.). Retrieved from
https://www.slideshare.net/JoshuaLee68/ubbl-1984-pdf

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