by Dylan Brugman, Outside Sales, Climate Systems Inc.
For decades, critical control valve technology remained largely unchanged. Mechanical pressure-independent valves and pneumatic systems dominated critical environments, even as buildings became more complex and energy efficiency expectations continued to rise.
That began to change in the mid-2000s. In 2006, Accutrol introduced the AccuValve, ushering in a new era of airflow measurement and control designed specifically for high-performance and critical environments.
When Technology Had to Catch Up
As energy costs increased and sustainability goals became more aggressive, engineers and building owners began questioning long-standing airflow control assumptions. One issue stood out quickly: traditional mechanical valves required higher fan pressure to operate, which translated directly into higher energy consumption and operating costs.
Accutrol took a different approach. Rather than modifying decades-old technology, they started with a clean sheet and focused on one core objective: reducing pressure drop while maintaining precise airflow control.
True Airflow Measurement Without Straight Runs
The AccuValve utilizes a patented vortex shedding airflow measurement technology paired with an innovative airfoil-shaped compression design. This approach creates a uniform velocity profile within the valve, eliminating the need for long straight duct runs upstream or downstream.
By compressing the air and increasing velocity, turbulence is reduced and airflow becomes stable, an ideal condition for accurate measurement. This allows the AccuValve to deliver true airflow measurements across a wide turndown range, even in tight mechanical spaces where straight runs are impractical.
Lower Pressure Drop, Lower Energy Costs
One of the most impactful benefits of the AccuValve is its exceptionally low pressure drop. Inspired by aerospace streamlining principles, the valve incorporates a static pressure regain section after the control blades, recovering much of the pressure typically lost in compression-based designs.
At maximum design airflow, pressure drop under 0.3” is common. Compared to mechanical valves, this can reduce required duct operating pressure by 0.5” to 1.0” or more. The result is lower fan brake horsepower, reduced energy consumption, less noise, and a smaller carbon footprint – benefits that add up 24/7/365.
Designed for Demand-Based Static Pressure Reset
Modern standards like ASHRAE 90.1 emphasize demand-based static pressure reset, especially in energy-intensive environments such as laboratories, healthcare facilities, and research buildings.
Because the AccuValve directly measures airflow and operates in closed-loop control, it supports true demand-based static pressure reset strategies. Fans operate only at the pressure required by the most demanding zone, ensuring safety while minimizing electrical input at all times.
Flexible Control for Critical Environments
Accutrol also recognized that airflow performance is only as good as the measurement feeding the controller. By separating the valve from the controller and delivering highly accurate airflow data, the AccuValve integrates seamlessly with leading building automation systems.
In 2012, Accutrol expanded this capability further with the AccuValve featuring Electronic Pressure Independence (ePI®), providing stand-alone control with native BACnet® communication and an intuitive user interface. Applications include laboratories, operating rooms, isolation rooms, vivariums, and other critical environments where accuracy and reliability are non-negotiable.
A Smarter Approach to Airflow Control
Accutrol has been revolutionizing airflow control technology since the early 2000s, delivering solutions designed to improve comfort, safety, and energy efficiency in the most demanding environments.
For building owners and engineers looking to reduce operating costs without compromising performance, the AccuValve represents a smarter, modern approach to crucial airflow control.
If you’d like to discuss how Accutrol solutions can support your next project or retrofit, let’s connect.
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Dylan Brugman
Outside Sales
Climate Systems Inc.
Source: Accutrol, LLC. “Critical Airflow Control Design for the 21st Century: Evolution of Airflow Control Technology.” White Paper.