Swagon: variable geometry chilled beams for efficient variable air volume (VAV) systems

It has been almost 10 years since a CIBSE Journal CPD last discussed variants and applications of the ‘chilled beam’. In the meantime, the installation of beams has gathered pace, and they are now commonly seen in commercial applications. This CPD will revisit the basic functions of chilled beams, and explore the opportunities offered by the new generation of variable air volume (VAV) beams.

A prerequisite of maintaining safe and comfortable internal environments is good air quality, and this is typically achieved through ventilation. In commercial applications, mechanical ventilation will often also provide comfort cooling by supplying air at a lower temperature than room air.