Terminology 281

Chapter 18

Terminology

ir Conditioning: Treating or conditioning the tempera-

A ture, humidity, and cleanliness of the air to meet the re-

quirements of the conditioned space.

Air Conditioning Unit: An assembly of components for air treat-

ment. Also called: air handing unit (AHU) for larger systems or
fan-coil unit (FCU) for smaller systems.

Algorithm: A set of rules, which specify a sequence of actions.

Analog Signal: A type of signal whose level varies smoothly and

continuously in amplitude or frequency. Traditionally, analog
devices such as pneumatic controllers, transducers, relays and
actuators have performed HVAC control.

Automatic Temperature Control Damper: Dampers controlled by

temperature requirements of the system. Automatic temperature
control dampers are usually opposed or parallel bladed dampers
and can be either two-position or modulating. Two-position con-
trol means the damper is either open or closed. Modulating con-
trol provides for the gradual opening or closing of a damper.
Automatic temperature control dampers should have a tight
shutoff when closed.

Automatic Temperature Control Valve: Automatic control valves

are used to control flow rate or to mix or divert water streams.
They’re classified as two-way or three-way construction and ei-
ther modulating or two-position.

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282 HVAC Fundamentals

Btu: A “Btu” is simply a unit of heat. Btu stands for British Ther-
mal Unit. In scientific terms, a Btu is the amount of heat required
to raise one pound of water one degree Fahrenheit. The term Btuh
(Btu/hr) is used to quantify heat losses and heat gains in the con-
ditioned space, and to identify the heating and cooling capacities
of various types of equipment.

Comfort Zone: The range of effective temperatures and humidi-

ties over which the majority of adults feel comfortable. Generally,
between 68°F to 79°F and 40% to 60% relative humidity.

Ceiling Diffuser: A diffuser which typically provides a horizontal

flow pattern that tends to flow along the ceiling producing a high
degree of surface effect. Typical square or rectangular ceiling dif-
fusers deliver air in a one, two, three or four-way pattern. Round
ceiling diffusers deliver air in all directions.

Cleanroom: A specially constructed, enclosed area, environmen-

tally controlled with respect to airborne particles, temperature,
humidity, airflow patterns, air motion, sound, vibration, and
lighting. A room in which the concentration of airborne particles
is controlled and which contains one or more clean zones. A
cleanroom is constructed and used in a manner to minimize the
introduction, generation, and retention of particles inside the
room. Other relevant parameters, e.g. temperature, humidity, and
pressure, are controlled as necessary. Also called Controlled Envi-
ronment Room (CER).

Cleanroom Occupancy States:

As-built: A cleanroom which is complete and operating with
all services connected and functioning. It has no production
equipment or personnel.

At-rest: A cleanroom which is complete and operating, with

all services connected and functioning. It has production
equipment but no personnel.