Building Management Systems: Important Things That You Need to Know

A management system is made for a building to control the electrical and mechanical equipment. It is a computer-controlled system for lighting, power systems, fire systems, and security systems. It is called Building Management Systems(BMS) or Building Automation System(BAS). It has a software and hardware part which is configured in a hierarchical manner. It is mostly implemented in large buildings.

Characteristics

Building Management Systems are used in building projects which have extensive electrical, mechanical, and HVAC systems. BMS is a very critical component that can meet and manage the energy demand of the project. Almost 8 percent of total energy usage in the U.S accounts for incorrectly configured BMS. rnThe system is linked to the access-controlled doors, closed-circuit television, and motion detectors like equipment. Elevators and fire alarms are also linked to this system. If there is a link between the fire alarm and the elevator system, when the fire alarm goes off, it will also close the dampers of the ventilation system to reduce the spreading of smoke. It will also park all the elevators on the ground floor to ensure no one gets trapped inside by using them.

Disaster Response

The building management system also includes disaster- response mechanisms. This mechanism, if intact, will help in the prevention of structures from the effects of earthquakes. Studies are being conducted on how to enhance the use of this system in case of a flood or rising-sea levels. One example of such a system is the SAFE building system, which is a self-adjusting floating system that can maintain flooding to a few feet of water.

Major subsystems of BMS systems are

1. HVAC The humidity, duct temperature, exhaust temperature, and pressure is connected to the BMS, and if the value exceeds the set limits, then the alarm goes off. 2.Technical steam system If the temperature or pressure in the pipe falls below the desired or set value, an alarm is set to indicate the threat. rn3. Hot water and central heating systemrnThe temperature of the water used in the sink and washrooms is regulated using a BMS system. It allows the proper functioning of the hot water distribution. 4. Sprinkler system used for fire safety 5. Chilled water system It is used to control the facility chillers. BMS will monitor the proper behavior of the system by regulating water/coolant temperature or pump control. 6. Electrical Monitoring The BMS is also suitable for keeping track of electrical power consumed and maintaining safety with electrical switches. A well-configured BMS system will help the occupant with reduced energy bills, intelligently managed electrical and mechanical systems. With the help of this automated equipment, control systems, and humidity to ventilation can be controlled.