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OPTICAL DEVICE MANUFACTURER CLEAN ROOMS

MASSACHUSETTS

CHALLENGE

This global leader develops thermal imaging sensors and camera platforms for commercial, industrial, and government use. B2Q was engaged by the client and the local utility to analyze energy efficiency strategies for cooling equipment serving five clean spaces including Optical Coating Lab (Class 100K Lab), Cooler Lab (Class 10K), Main Production Clean Room (Class 100K), Optical Manufacturing Area (Class 10k), and Optical Test Lab (Class 1k).

OPPORTUNITY

B2Q reviewed existing HVAC systems and environmental requirements, comparing cooling equipment energy consumption to savings potential. Our engineering team developed energy conservation recommendations specific to each area and conducted a cost-benefit analysis of each.

  • Optimizing the recirculation rate to control particulate in the .5 and 5 µm size range by adding/reconfiguring HEPA filter layout to address velocity targets and reduce filter CFM

  • Utilizing Digital Scroll compressors for improved part load performance

  • Adding particulate monitoring to reset recirculation based on loading

  • Replacing electric steam generation with Ultrasonic humidification

  • Adding BAS controls to all recirculation fans, including VFDs, to achieve active recirculation control

RESULT

B2Q identified energy savings of 10% to 30% for each of the five clean room areas. Subsequently, B2Q provided HVAC design for the renovation of 4 out of 5 of the clean rooms. Energy savings measures included:

Market:

Industrial

Services:

Energy Efficiency and Analysis
Building Systems

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The ETIC RCx project was an outstanding success, delivering verified energy savings and operational improvements that exceeded UMass Lowell’s expectations. The project achieved impressive annual cost savings—10% higher than initially projected—while reducing energy intensity by 14% for UMass Lowell’s third-largest utility account.

Beyond cost savings, the initiative delivered significant environmental benefits, cutting annual carbon emissions by 530,000 lbCO2e. Additionally, it enhanced lab safety through robust lab pressurization tracking and the recalibration of all terminal devices.

This success was made possible through the unwavering collaboration between UMass Lowell, B2Q, and NGRID, demonstrating the power of partnership and a shared commitment to cost efficiency, sustainability, and operational excellence.

Daniel Abrahamson 
University of Massachusetts Amherst

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