The 2024 podcast series will revolve around new and innovative approaches to the methods, materials, and technologies used in the construction and operation of the built environment. We have an exciting lineup of experts in the industry to discuss these key components of building operations, and will have EIGHT episodes in 2024!. Check them out!
The Institute for Northwest Energy Futures (INEF) at Washington State University Tri-Cities is dedicated to advancing a sustainable clean energy future. INEF takes an integrated systems approach to optimize the balance between emerging clean technologies, existing resources, and their economic, social, and political impacts. The institute fosters collaboration, innovation, and policy development to accelerate the adoption of low-carbon electricity and transportation fuels. As a virtual hub, INEF connects experts, drives research, educates future clean energy leaders, and engages with communities and tribal groups. Their goal is to create resilient, affordable, and environmentally harmonious energy systems.
Joining us for this episode are Karl Englund and Hui Li of WSU's Composite Materials and Engineering Center (CMEC) who discuss their use of low-value feedstocks in the engineering of new and innovative products. Karl and Hui delve into their experiences in the timber and polymer industry, sharing their unique work of turning what is otherwise trash (such as wood pulps, fibers, etc) into useable and durable products for construction.
This episode we talk with two experts from Puget Sound Abatement who cover all aspects of abatement services, as well as talking about the risk of things in homes such as lead pipes, and asbestos. These experts walk through the job site etiquette and discuss the future need for abatement services.
In this episode of BUILDING HEROES, we bring on three experts from the Hydraulic Institute to discuss the importance of pumping systems, why pumps matter in our built environment, and savings that can be achieved through the use of smart pumping technologies. Smart pumps—often termed a ‘self-sensing’ or ‘sensorless’— integrate variable speed controls to optimize operation based on system requirements. Smart pumps reduce operational pitfalls and enhance efficiency through streamlined control. Pumping systems are essential to the daily operation of most commercial buildings and industrial facilities. With new energy standards for clean-water pumps taking effect in 2020 and a new Energy Rating label program from the Hydraulic Institute, now is the time to evaluate the efficiency of commercial and industrial pumps, and circulators.
In this episode of BUILDING HEROES, we bring on two energy engineering experts to discuss Washington State Energy Code (WSEC), the Clean Building Performance Standard (CBPS), and efficient dedicated outdoor air system (DOAS) considerations in the new 2021 ICC and WSEC code cycle. Jordan and Derek discuss the sometimes complex nature of HVAC design, and how a Very High Efficiency DOAS system might be the best option for selected small and medium commercial buildings in the state of Washington, as well as potential occupant and energy benefits achievable through this approach. The next step in the ongoing evolution of HVAC design, very high efficiency DOAS uses the most efficient HVAC equipment and key design principles to provide cleaner and safer indoor air, enhance indoor comfort, and reduce commercial building HVAC energy use by an average of 69% (when compared to a code-minimum system).