VAV
Smart Pressure Sensors
for Efficient Airflow Control
Variable Air Volume (VAV) is an HVAC technology that regulates building airflow. Unlike constant air volume systems, which supply a steady amount of air regardless of temperature needs, VAV systems adjust the volume of air based on the heating or cooling requirements of each zone or room. This dynamic approach to air distribution allows for more precise control of indoor climate, improving comfort while significantly enhancing energy efficiency. VAV systems are commonly used in commercial buildings, offices, and large residential complexes, where managing energy consumption and maintaining a comfortable environment are priorities.
VAV systems control the amount of conditioned air delivered to different zones through VAV terminal units. These units contain dampers that open or close based on temperature demands, ensuring that each space receives the proper air for cooling or heating. However, several issues can arise in VAV systems, including incorrect damper positioning, airflow imbalances, and inefficient operation due to poorly maintained filters or ducts. These problems can lead to uncomfortable indoor conditions, energy waste, and unnecessary wear on HVAC equipment, potentially resulting in costly repairs or system downtime.
Pressure sensors play a critical role in the accuracy and functionality of VAV systems. By measuring the differential pressure across VAV terminal units, pressure sensors ensure the system maintains the correct airflow for each zone. These sensors detect subtle changes in air pressure that can indicate blockages, damper issues, or other inefficiencies. With real-time pressure data, the VAV system can automatically adjust airflow, optimizing energy use and ensuring consistent comfort throughout the building.
Pressure sensors continuously monitor pressure levels and allow for quick issue detection, helping to maintain the overall performance and reliability of VAV systems.
Unique Capabilities for VAV
The NimbleSense architecture was designed to maximize performance while also being flexible enough to easily insert application-specific capabilities. The result is a pressure sensor architecture with a very clear signal and practically no noise, leading to incredible accuracy, TEB, and long-term stability. Specific to HVAC systems, we have implemented these additional capabilities:
Multi-Range™ technology
A single sensor can accommodate up to eight different pressure ranges to effectively measure pressure across a wide variety of air flow locations and environments
Advanced digital filtering
Multi-order filter that leverages advanced filtering capabilities at the front end to eradicate critical noise caused by fans, blowers, or other sources before they can impact system performance
Integrated 50/60 Hz notch filter
Neutralizes any power grid spikes or noise coming from AC devices that could interfere with sensor accuracy or system performance
Position insensitivity
Maintains consistent and highly accurate handheld readings regardless of movement or the physical orientation of the measurement device; rated with a positional sensitivity to within 0.25 pascal
Integrated closed loop control
Eliminates the need to design an external closed loop control system, which simplifies product design and reduces loop delays by up to 100x
Superior’s NimbleSense architecture enables us to develop unique products optimized for different markets. For VAVs, we have created the following products. Our architecture is very flexible, so we can also develop custom solutions for your application.
Resources
Product Brief
Product Brief
Capabilities
Catalog
Want to learn more? Read our VAV blog post.