UNIVERSITY OF KENT – CODE OF PRACTICE FOR QUALITY ASSURANCE
MODULE SPECIFICATION TEMPLATE
1
The title of the module Air Conditioning A UU567
2
The Department which will be responsible for management of the module
Building & Civil Engineering
3
The Start Date of the Module
September 2007
4
The number of students expected to take the module 30
5
Modules to be withdrawn on the introduction of this proposed module and
consultation with other relevant Departments and Faculties regarding the
withdrawal None
6
The level of the module Higher (H)
7
The number of credits which the module represents 15
8
Which term(s) the module is to be taught in (or other teaching pattern) Both
9
Prerequisite and co-requisite modules None
10
The programmes of study to which the module contributes Building Services
Engineering
11
The intended subject specific learning outcomes and, as appropriate, their
relationship to programme learning outcomes
1) Evaluate the ventilation and air conditioning needs for commercial/industrial
buildings
2) Determine cooling loads and energy requirements for buildings and peak
summertime temperatures for spaces without air conditioning
3) Produce and evaluate a design to satisfy the ventilation and air conditioning
needs of commercial/industrial buildings
4) Select appropriate cooling plant and associated equipment for air conditioning
systems
UNIVERSITY OF KENT – CODE OF PRACTICE FOR QUALITY ASSURANCE
These learning outcomes directly relate to the listed programme learning
outcomes A1 and A5 – Knowledge & Understanding of Building Services
Engineering. In addition the following subject specific skill listed in section C is
also included:
 Collect, analyse and interpret data using appropriate techniques in the field
and laboratory and when necessary design experiments to gain new data.
12
The intended generic learning outcomes and, as appropriate, their relationship to
programme learning outcomes
1) Communicate effectively with other people using visual, graphic, written and
verbal means.
2) Present quantitative and qualitative information, together with analysis,
argument and commentary, in a form appropriate to the intended audience,
including appropriate acknowledgement and referencing of sources
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A synopsis of the curriculum
1 Ventilation and air conditioning needs
Specification and requirements: analysis and interpretation of client and building
operational requirements, ventilation and air conditioning design standards and
publications for commercial and industrial buildings. The balance between clients.
needs, commercial constraints, health and safety, aesthetic and energy efficiency
considerations. Factors influencing the decision to install mechanical air
conditioning or ventilation systems. Use of natural ventilation as a means of cooling.
Inter-relationship between ventilation and air conditioning and other mechanical
and electrical building services
2 Cooling loads, energy requirements and peak summertime temperatures
Solar radiation: solar geometry and terminology, direct and diffuse solar radiation,
calculation of solar irradiance on vertical, horizontal and pitched surfaces. Use of
tables and reference data
Cooling loads due to solar radiation: transmission of solar radiation through glass and
building structures. Strategies for reducing cooling loads. Effect of shadows and
shading. Cooling loads due to solar gain. Impact of alternative design temperature
indices and method of cooling on cooling loads
Total cooling load and cooling plant capacity: factors contributing to cooling plant
capacity for an air conditioned building, assessment of total heat gains to the
interior, selection and verification of parameters for determining realistic casual
gains, effect of building construction and orientation on its thermal inertia and
cooling load. Use of tables, reference data and computer software to determine
cooling loads for rooms, zones and buildings
Peak summertime temperatures: assessment of peak summertime temperatures
anticipated in the absence of air conditioning. Use of tables, reference data and
computer software to determine peak summertime temperatures
UNIVERSITY OF KENT – CODE OF PRACTICE FOR QUALITY ASSURANCE
3 Ventilation and air conditioning of commercial/industrial buildings
Design of ventilation systems: application of natural and mechanical ventilation
systems for commercial and industrial buildings. Mixed flow and displacement
ventilation systems. Fume and dust extraction systems. Combination of ventilation
with commercial air conditioning systems
Design of air conditioning systems: properties, characteristics, psychometric cycles and
selection of .all air,. air/water and packaged refrigerant air conditioning systems.
(Single duct, terminal re-heat, VAV multi-zone, fan-coil, perimeter induction, chilled
ceilings/beam, VRV and other single and multi zone packaged refrigeration
systems). Choice of air conditioning system relative to needs. Control systems for the
various air conditioning systems. Sizing and selection of plant, ductwork and
pipework, use of manufacturers. data and selection software. Design implications on
space, maintenance and commissioning requirements, capital and operating costs.
Comparisons between centralised and packaged equipment
Commissioning and testing requirements for air conditioning installations: application of
current standards and procedures for the commissioning of air conditioning and
refrigeration systems. Instruments and procedures for the measurement of
volumetric flow, temperature, humidity, pressure and noise. Commissioning
schedules and documentation
4 Cooling plant and associated equipment for air conditioning systems
Vapour compression refrigeration cycles: construction, operation characteristics and
features of the major components found in refrigeration/heat pump installations
associated with commercial air conditioning. Lubrication requirements and
principles. Sizing and selection of refrigeration plant, equipment and networks, use
of tables, charts, computer software and manufacturers. data. Basic control systems
for refrigeration and heat pump systems
Refrigerant properties and utilisation: properties, characteristics, thermodynamic
performance, health, safety and welfare implications, and environmental
implications of commercially available refrigerants. Legislation and standards
applicable to the use, handling and disposal of refrigerants and refrigeration plant.
Compatibility with lubrication oils. Criteria for selection. Procedures for charging
and evacuating systems
Commissioning and testing requirements for refrigeration plant: application of current
standards and procedures for the commissioning of refrigeration plant for air
conditioning systems. Instruments and procedures for commissioning refrigeration
plant. Commissioning schedules and documentation
UNIVERSITY OF KENT – CODE OF PRACTICE FOR QUALITY ASSURANCE
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Indicative Reading List
Textbooks
HUNDY, GH et al. 2000. Refrigeration and Air Conditioning. 3rd Ed. Butterworth
Heinemann. Hungary.
Other publications
_ ASHRAE Publications
_ CIBSE . Guides, Application Guides, Technical Memorandum, Commissioning
Codes
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Learning and Teaching Methods, including the nature and number of contact hours
and the total study hours which will be expected of students, and how these relate to
achievement of the intended learning outcomes
The purpose of this unit is to develop the learner’s understanding of the principles of
design, installation, operation and commissioning of air conditioning equipment and
installations. It will provide an opportunity to experience the process of completing
air conditioning designs in complex industrial and commercial applications. It will
enable learners to interpret the air conditioning requirements of a building, develop
practical air conditioning schemes for a range of environments and evaluate the
effectiveness of alternative schemes.
A variety of learning and teaching methods will be employed.
Students will be expected to spend a total of 150 hours of study which will be
apportioned as follows:



47 contact hours involving a mixture of lecture and classes. Much of the
content will be directly taught through a variety of class-based activities.
Lectures will be used to provide general underpinning knowledge and explain
the various principles. However, emphasis is upon student-centred activities
including research tasks, group work, individual tasks, presentations and
demonstrations which will be organised to develop the transferable skills
outlined in section D of the programme specification. IT applications will be
included with workshops provided where required. Tutorials will be
arranged to assist and direct the students in their work; to give feedback on
coursework; to diagnose learning difficulties; and provide guidance and
counselling.
40 hours – assessment & revision
63 hours – private study
UNIVERSITY OF KENT – CODE OF PRACTICE FOR QUALITY ASSURANCE
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Assessment methods and how these relate to testing achievement of the intended
learning outcomes
Assessment may be formative and summative and both may feature as part of the
process. Although assessments must be focused on the individual achievement of
each learner, group work and role-play activities may contribute to the assessment.
Integrative assignments and project work will help to link this unit with other
related units. Where available, evidence from the workplace can also be incorporated
to enhance the learning outcomes, provided that this evidence is appropriate and
authenticated as the learner’s own work. The volume of evidence required for each
assessment should take into account the overall number of assessments being
contemplated within this unit and the design of the overall teaching programme.
Appropriate attention must be given to health, safety and welfare arrangements and
CDM Regulations throughout the delivery of this unit. In designing the assessment
instruments, opportunities may also be included to generate evidence to meet the
CIC Common Learning Outcomes and higher level skills appropriate to the
outcomes of this unit.
A full range of assessment methods will provide students with a varied menu of
assessment experiences. Formative methods will be used to provide maximum
feedback and support to facilitate continual progress. Coursework (70%) will
comprise a number of assignments to assess the competence of the skills
inherent in the specific and generic learning outcomes. Verification exercises
will authenticate the work carried out in the coursework assignments and an
additional end examination may be included to supplement the assessment
process as/if required. (30%)
Subject Specific Learning Outcomes
1) Evaluate the ventilation and
air conditioning needs for
commercial/industrial
buildings
2) Determine cooling loads and
energy requirements for
buildings and peak
summertime temperatures
for spaces without air
conditioning
3) Produce and evaluate a
design to satisfy the
ventilation and air
conditioning needs of
commercial/industrial
buildings
4) Select appropriate cooling
plant and associated
equipment for air
conditioning systems
Assessment Criteria
UNIVERSITY OF KENT – CODE OF PRACTICE FOR QUALITY ASSURANCE
Generic Learning Outcomes
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Assessment Crieteria
1) Communicate effectively
with other people using
visual, graphic, written and
verbal means.

2) Present quantitative and
qualitative information,
together with analysis,
argument and commentary,
in a form appropriate to the
intended audience, including
appropriate
acknowledgement and
referencing of sources



Compile and select information
into an appropriate structure
Present information clearly and
in an effective suitable style and
language using appropriate
academic standards.
Compile and select information
into an appropriate structure for
the intended audience
Present information in a suitable
style and language in order that
the intended information is
communicated clearly and
effectively
Implications for learning resources, including staff, library, IT and space
This module will be taught by appropriately qualified lecturers who have
experience in delivering these topics.
All the items stated in the Indicative Reading List are available at the Medway
Centre, Learning Resource Centre IT suites which all allow Internet, On-line T.I.
Onestop Technical Index Facility are also available for students to book as
required. In addition the Department boasts its own IT/AutoCAD suite which is
incorporated in the programme operation. The teaching accommodation is
adapted for teaching these classes.
UNIVERSITY OF KENT – CODE OF PRACTICE FOR QUALITY ASSURANCE
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A statement confirming that, as far as can be reasonably anticipated, the curriculum,
learning and teaching methods and forms of assessment do not present any nonjustifiable disadvantage to students with disabilities
The learning outcomes, teaching and learning methods and assessments are
accessible to and achievable by all students. Any student with disabilities will
not face any foreseen disadvantage or difficulties that cannot be reasonably
addressed.
Statement by the Director of Learning and Teaching: "I confirm I have been consulted on
the above module proposal and have given advice on the correct procedures and required
content of module proposals"
................................................................
Director of Learning and Teaching
..............................................
Date
Statement by the Head of Department: "I confirm that the Department has approved the
introduction of the module and will be responsible for its resourcing"
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Head of Department
Revised..............
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Date