Control systems

There are three methods of control

1. Automatic Control Panel
A fully programmable control panel is usually included as standard in the Monodraught package. The panels are able to be connected to temperature, air quality and CO₂ sensors, depending upon the particular application, as the sensors as shown below.

The panels can be located in a plant control room, it does not need to be located in the room that it is serving. Control panels can serve multiple rooms, up to ten Classrooms can be served by one panel.

2. Semi-Automatic Controller
Alternatively a stand alone system which allows the end user to control the opening or closing of the dampers using the push button overrides can be used. The automatic control system opens the damper arrangement when the internal temperature rises above 20ºC. Below 20ºC the dampers will begin to close. However, at anytime the user can override the damper position using the push buttons.
For more information about the Windcatcher
Semi-Automatic Controller click here.

3. Manual Control Dampers
This is the most basic method of damper control. Instead of motorised dampers, manual dampers are fitted and are operated by a lever at ceiling diffuser level, normally operated by an extension pole.

Sensors available

Temperature
A single temperature sensor is normally provided per. For larger areas it is recommended that two or more temperature sensors are positioned in the room, so as to achieve an average reading. Seasonal set points on the main control panel enables the temperature set points to be increased in the winter setting, to prevent heat loss during this period and settings are also pre-programmed for spring, summer and autumn.  The temperature sensor incorporates a manual override facility to open or close the dampers when required by the end user and an LED is activated accordingly.
For more information about the temperature sensor with manual override click here.

CO₂
For more specialised applications, such as Classrooms, dedicated CO₂ sensors can be incorporated and it is normal to pre-set the CO₂ sensor at 1500ppm.  Once this level is reached, the dampers will open automatically for a period of 20 minutes before returning to the closed down position.  CO₂ sensors are recommended for Classrooms, Sports Halls, Gymnasiums and Offices with winter use.

Air Quality
In the case of highly densely populated rooms, such as Conference Rooms or social areas, air quality sensors are recommended in conjunction with temperature sensors, to detect odours or heavy particulate contaminants.

Manual Overrides (Old Style)
Early versions of Monodraught control packages incorporated single push button overrides. We found that in many cases, the ‘end user’ did not really appreciate the advantage and operation of the manual override arrangement. We are, therefore, now sending out self-adhesive labels, as shown, so that these can be affixed to the face of the existing manual overrides. This will give the ‘end user’ a much better understanding and thus get the maximum benefit out of their natural ventilation system.  If there are any Facility Managers or indeed, Teachers or other ‘end users’ that would like us to send a supply of these new labels, please do let us know and we will send them to you immediately.
For more information about the
manual override click here.