Buildings Service report

Building Services (BDL 61403)
Project 2
Case Study and Documentation of
Building Services Systems of
Subang Parade Mall
Group Members Student ID
Chong Chui Wern 0321359
Law Yong Lin 0320516
Lee Yen Chei 0320568
Loh Khai Jhung 0318908
Tay Jia Jian 0315508
Ting Jin Rong 0318269
Guided by Ar. Sateerah Hassan

Table of Content
No Content Page
1 Abstract 1
2 Introduction 2
3 Acknowledgment 3
4 Mechanical Ventilation
4.1 Introduction
4.2 Literature Review
4.3 Case Study
4.3.1 Supply Ventilation System
-Pressurized Staircase System
4.3.2 Exhaust Ventilation System
-Smoke Spill System
-Kitchen Exhaust System
-Toilet Exhaust System
-Ducted System
4.3.3 Balanced Ventilation System
4.3.4 Components
-Fan
-Diffuser
-Return Air Grille
4.4 Discussion
4
5
6 - 8
9
10 – 11
12 – 18
19 – 20
21 – 24
25
5 Air-conditioning System
5.1 Introduction
5.3 Case Study
5.3.1 Plant Room
- Chiller
- Condenser
- Evaporator
- Compressor
- Pipe & Pump
5.3.2 Cooling Tower
- Piping
- Condensed Water Pipe
- Water Supply Pipe
- Balancing Pipe
5.3.3 Air Handling Unit Room
- Air Filter
- Fan
- Cooling Coil
- Mixing Box
5.3.4 Ducting System
5.3.5 Diffuser
5.3.6 Control Room
5.4 Discussion
26
27
28
29
30 – 33
34 – 36
37 – 39
40
41 – 42
43
44

6 Mechanical Transportation
6.1 Introduction
6.3 Case Study
6.3.1 Elevator
- Electrical Lift
- Hydraulic Lift
- Elevator Car Control
- Issues of Elevator
6.3.2 Escalator
- Components
- Safety Features
6.4 Discussion
45
46
47
48 – 49
50 – 59
60 – 62
63
7 Fire Protection Systems
7.1 Introduction
7.3 Case Study
7.3A Active Fire Protection
7.3A.1 Fire Detection and Communication System
- Smoke Detector
7.3A.2 Fire Control Room and Intercom Station
- Fire Control Room
- Fire Intercom Station
7.3A.3 Fire Emergency Alarm System
- Alarm Bell
- Manual Call Point
- Manual Pull and Key Switch
7.3A.4 Water Based Fire Protection System
- Water Tank
- Automatic Sprinkler System
- Sprinkler Tank and Sprinkler Pumps
- Deluge System
7.3A.5 Fire Pump Room
- Fire Hose Reel System
- Duty Pump
- Standby Pump
- Jockey Pump
7.3A.6 Wet Riser and Dry Riser System
- Wet Riser
- Dry Riser
7.3A.7 Fire Hydrant System
7.3A.8 Non-Water Based Fire Protection System
- Portable Fire Extinguisher
7.3A.9 Fixed Fire Extinguisher
- Carbon Dioxide Fire Extinguisher
7.3A.10 Fire Escape Route
7.3A.11 Emergency Assembly Point (EAPs)
7.3P Passive Fire Protection
7.3B.1 Fire Escape Route
- Pressurized Staircase
- Handrails
7.3P.2 Fire-Rated Door
7.3P.3 Exit Sign
7.3P.4 Fire Elevator
7.3P.5 Fire Shutter
7.3P.6 Emergency Light
7.4 Discussion
64
65
66
67
68 – 69
70 – 72
73 – 75
76 – 81
82 – 85
86 – 87
88 – 89
90 – 91
92 – 93
94 – 95
96
97
98 – 100
101 – 103
104 – 105
106
107 – 108
109
110
8 Conclusion 111 - 112
9 References 113 – 114

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1. Abstract
The case study report will be exploring into the work and function of the
services in Subang Parade. The contents are mechanical ventilation system, air-
conditioning system, mechanical transportation and fire protection system.
The report will aim to introduce each of the systems in a fundamental level and
the advantage and disadvantage on each of the systems used. With the
knowledge gained in lectures and our own personal research, each system will
be analyzed and explained based on our understanding and the regulations of
building and service such as Uniform Building by Law (UBBL) and Malaysian
Standards (MS). Requirement and adherence will also be analyzed based on
each services controlling arm. At the end of each system’s analysis, opinion
and advice that could be an improvement will be given as part of the
conclusion on each system.

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2. Introduction
Subang Parade was the first ‘regional’ shopping centre in Selangor when
it was opened on 13 August 1988. The shopping centre was built under the
supervision by the architects of Jurukur Berjasa. The centre is located in the
heart of Subang Jaya’s commercial district, a township 25 minutes' drive from
Kuala Lumpur.
Subang Parade's positioning strategy is neighborhood-focused, with an
emphasis on its primary trade area. This market focus provides the centre with
a captive customer base, whose needs are met by a tenant mix offering value
and convenience. In 2011, the introduction of MBO Cinemas and the Market
Place have further enhanced the tenant mix of the centre, bringing us closer to
our purpose in meeting customers’ needs.
Subang Parade's refurbishment was recognized by the International
Council of Shopping Centers (ICSC) with a Silver Award for Development &
Design at the 2008 ICSC Asia Awards.

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3. Acknowledgement
We would like to extend our gratitude to each individual that has helped
and assisted us to complete this case study report. Special thanks to our tutor
Ms. Sateerah Hassan for her guidance in each tutorial and providing us an aim
to accomplish this project. We would also like to thank the staffs of Subang
Parade for welcoming and giving us all the insight of the services incorporated
in the building and for being patient and understanding in our visit.
We are very grateful that the staff took us around and show us the
services that we needed in order to complete the project. They also show us
other services to enrich our knowledge.
The services in Subang Parade include:
1) Mechanical Ventilation
2) Air- conditioning System
3) Mechanical Transportation
4) Fire Protection System
5) Electrical system
6) Water Supply System
7) Telephone Line System

4
4. Mechanical Ventilation System

5
4.1 Introduction
Ventilation is the intentional of outside air into a space. Ventilation is mainly used to control
the indoor air quality by exchange the indoor and outdoor air. Ventilation can help to
achieve the thermal comfort inside the buildings and also help to remove the unpleasant
smell, smoke, moisture and carbon dioxide by replacing the indoor air with the outdoor air
to prevent became a sick building.
Ventilation can be recognized as mechanical ventilation and natural ventilation. Natural
ventilation can occur only in special condition such as the pressure indoor is higher compare
with outdoor. Natural ventilation relay on passive physical phenomena or passive design
such as open plan layout, wind pressure and large windows. Natural ventilation easily
affected by environment condition so it is not stable and suitable use for a commercial
buildings compare with the mechanical ventilation.

6
Mechanical Ventilation in buildings is a process of supplying air and exhausting air.
Mechanical deceives help to control the indoor air quality, humidity, odors and so on. The
main function of the mechanical ventilation is to remove stale air and replace with fresh air.
Mechanical ventilation systems circulate fresh air using ducts and fans, rather than relying
on airflow through small holes or cracks in a home’s walls, roof, or windows.
Mechanical ventilation is important as they:
1. Moderating the internal temperature
2. Control indoor air humidity
3. Replenishing oxygen
4. Disposal of contaminants such as smoke and dust.
5. Maximize occupant comfort
6. Prevents Condensation.
Supply Ventilation Systems — Hot or Mixed Climates.
A Typical supply ventilation system has a fan and duct system that introduces the fresh air.
Fresh air is drawn in through an air “intake” vent and distributed to many rooms by a fan
and duct system.
Supply ventilation systems allow better control of the air that enters the house than exhaust
ventilation systems do. A fan and set of ducts dedicated solely to ventilation can be used, or
an outside air intake can be connected to the main return air duct, allowing the heating and
cooling system’s fan and ducts to distribute the fresh air.
The benefit of connecting to the return air duct is that outdoor air can be air conditioned or
dehumidified before it is introduced into the space. Because supply systems continually
introduce outdoor air, a home can become slightly pressurized. As a result, these systems
are typically not appropriate for cold climates where there is a risk of heated indoor air
being pushed through any remaining holes and cracks in the construction assembly where it
could reach cold exterior surfaces, condense, and cause moisture problems.
Figure 4.1 Supply Ventilation System Diagram
Source: (http://energy.gov/energysaver/whole-house-ventilation)

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Exhaust Ventilation Systems
Indoor air is continuously exhausted to the outdoors with one or more fans often located in
basement car park. Because basement car park got a lot of air pollutant.
A better exhaust ventilation design is connect the fan to ducts from several space where
pollutants are generated. Passive vents through ceiling or walls can be installed to introduce
fresh air rather than rely on leaks in the building envelope. Passive vents may, however,
require larger pressure differences than those induced by the ventilation fan to work
properly.
Figure 4.2 Exhaust Ventilation System Diagram
Source: (http://energy.gov/energysaver/whole-house-ventilation )
Balanced Ventilation Systems — All Climates.
A balanced ventilation system usually has two fans and two duct systems. Fresh air supply
and exhaust vents can be installed in every room, but a typical balanced ventilation system
is designed to supply fresh air public area where costumer spends the most time. It also
returns air into AHU room to let it become cool again.
Balanced ventilation systems are appropriate for all climates. Because they require two duct
and fan systems, however, balanced ventilation systems are more expensive to install and
operate than supply or exhaust systems but can make sure the air quality batter.
Like both supply and exhaust systems, balanced ventilation systems do not temper or
remove moisture from the make-up air before it enters the house. Therefore, they may
contribute to higher heating and cooling costs.
Figure 7.2.3.1 Balanced Ventilation System Diagram

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Comparison of Three Ventilation System
Ventilation System Pros Cons
Supply
- work well in hot weather
- simple install
- inexpensive
- lesser pollutants to living
space compare with exhaust
system
- better control than exhaust
system
- not so suitable use in cold
- can’t remove the moisture
- high maintenance cost for
heating and cooling costs
Exhaust
- work well in cold weather
- simple to install
- no too expensive system
- not suitable use in hot and
humid weather
- cause pollutants into living
space
- high maintenance cost for
heating and cooling costs
- required mixing outdoor and
indoor air
Balanced
- appropriate for all climate - more expensive to install
compare with other two systems
- can’t remove moisture
Table 4.1 Comparison of Ventilation System

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4.3 Case Study
Subang Parade Mall relies on all three systems to achieve the user comfort inside building.
Different system might be applies in different place because some location need specific
system to work it out. For example exhaust system work very well in basement discharge
those air pollutant exhaust from car to the roof top.
1. Supply Ventilation System
-Pressurized Staircase System
2. Exhaust Ventilation System
-Smoke Spill System
-Kitchen Exhaust System
-Toilet Exhaust System
-Ducted System
3. Balanced Ventilation System
-General Place & Utilities Room Ventilation
-Shop Ventilation System

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4.3.1 Supply Ventilation System
Staircase Pressurized System
Staircase pressurization is a preferred system for staircases in high-rise buildings to control
the smoke movement in case of fire. The pressure difference to the adjacent floors or a
minimum air inflow velocity into the fire floor by upper and lower bounds. The factors that
influence the performance of the pressurization system in the stairwell are closely linked to
the pressure profile along the flow path caused by the flow through the stairwell that
pushes the smoke into the outside.
There will be one Fan serving each stairwell and the fan discharge air into the entire
staircase shaft. The staircase will be pressurized and to prevetn over pressurized each
stairwell got one pressure relief damper.
Figure 4.3 Diagram of the Staircase Pressurized System
Sources: (http://blog.belimo.com/Blog/bid/56533/A-Comprehensive-Look-at-Engineered-Smoke-Control-
Systems )

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Figure 4.4 Pressure Relief Dampers In Each Floor
The pressure relief damper located at each floor of staircase that responds to the pressure.
If the pressure increased, the dampers drive towards close. If the pressure fails, the typically
due to the opening door, then the dampers open.
Figure 4.5 Pressure Relief Damper Connect To the Duct System
According to the Clause 202 UBBL 1984
Pressurized system for staircase All staircase serving buildings of more than 45 meters
height where shall be provided with a staircase pressurization system designed and installed
in accordance with MS1472.

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4.3.2 Exhaust Ventilation System
Smoke Spill System
In every Shopping mall got smoke spill system. This system is to exhaust the air when occur fire. This
exhaust system help to prevent the accumulation of smoke occur.
Figure 4.6 Smoke Spill Fan (Atrium Area)
Smoke spill system very important because when fire occur the Intel air supply is hard to come in
because the smoke temperature higher the pressure higher if the smoke spill system no function
well. In other case, if the Smoke spill fan functions well, the smoke will easily exhaust out not only
off the number of smoke spill fan but only the design of the Subang Parade.
Figure 4.7 Section Diagram of Subang Parade

13
From the section we can see the design of Subang Parade Mall will help the extract smoke
from the inside of the buildings if compare with the flat roof shopping mall.
Smoke spill fans only operate during fire alarm mode. When the fire alarm is triggered, the
signal from fire alarm panel will reach to smoke spill panel. A 20 seconds time relay allowed
adequate period for the motorized dampers to close or open. Then the smoke spill fan will
run and discharge the smoke out of the buildings.
There are 12 of smoke spill fan in atrium area. In 20 June the Subang Jaya just with fire
department carries on a dry out. This is the normal schedule to make sure the fire
protection system function well. Base on the maintainer say all the smoke spill fan function
well. The Figure 4.8 shows the smoke spill fan location in shopping mall atrium area.
Figure 4.8 the smoke spill fan location in shopping mall atrium area.
According to Clause 249-252 UBBl 1984
Smoke and venting in large buildings, natural draught smoke vent, smoke vent for exit safely
to be designed to prevent accumulation of smoke during evacuation and manual vents must
be operable by bomba from outside.

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Kitchen Exhaust System
The kicthen got own exhaust fan only for kitchen purpose. In Suban Parade it is
combination of centralized and individual duct system. Some duct system are connect with
other and link to the roof and others is provides individual duct system. For example, the
T.G.I.F tenants have own duct pipe straight away to the roof is because T.G.I.F in Subang
Parade business hour until 12.00a.m. Therefore, T.G.I.F need individual duct system.
Figure 4.9 the Individual Duct System For Sakae Sushi Kicthen.
Figure 4.10 the End of the Ductwork

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Figure 4.11 The Duct System of one of tenants.
In Figure 4.11 The duct system didn’t discharge to the rooftop but discharge straight away
from the restaurant to the outside is because the area acutually is an open area of highest
floor in subang parade so no need intentionally connect the duct system to the rooftop.
Figure 4.12 The Exhaust fan of The Duct system
According to Clause 99 UBBL 1984
Cooking facilities in residence buildings. Where a common vertical kitchen exhaust riser is
provided, the riser shall be continues to a mechanical floor or roof for discharge to the open
and shall be construsted with fire resisting materials of at least 2 hours rating with
BS476.PART3.

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Toilet Exhaust System
In Subang Jaya the toilet got separate exhaust ventilation system. The ventilation will
extract the air in toilet straight away to the rooftop because the air in toilet might be smelly
so can’t return it to the Ahu room. Therefore, the exhaust system in toilet is separated.
From the previous lecture about the sewerage system we have learn about need a vent pipe
for the toilet also.
Figure 4.13 the Inlet Of The Toilet Exhaust System
Figure 4.14 the Exhaust Fan At Rooftop
Figure 4.14 show the maintainer wants to make sure the ventilation fan is function. Each
toilet’s ventilation system has their own numbering. For example this one is VFR 12 meaning
is Ventilation Fan Roof number 12. If the ventilation Fan didn’t function the control panel
inside the control room will show red light at that specific ventilation fan number.
Figure 4.15 the Diagram Of The Toilet Exhaust System

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Ducted System
In Subang Parade Mall practice the ducted system which is sheet metal ductwork to transport the
smoke or the fumes to the rooftop or to the exterior. In basement car park area in Subang Jaya you
can see this system. Duct system in Basement parking didn’t carry the air back to AAHU it discharge
the air straight away to the rooftop or to the exterior.
Figure 4.16 the Duct Network In Basement Car Park
Figure 4.17 the Exit of Ductwork To Exterior
Figure 4.18 & Figure 4.19 The Ductwork Use In Basement Car Park

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In Subang Parade got one things special part which is the basement parking actually got open area
which I think it will help the ventilation in basement car park area also.
Figure 4.20 The Open Area In Basement Car Park.
According to UBBL 1996, section 123
(1) Where ducts or enclosures are provided in any building to accommodate pipes, cables or
conduits the dimensions of such ducts or enclosures shall be —
(a) Adequate for the accommodation of the pipes, cables or conduits and for crossings of
branches and mains together with supports and fixing; and
(2) The access openings to ducts or enclosures shall be long enough and suitably placed to
enable lengths of pipe to be installed and removed

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4.3.3 Balanced Ventilation System
The Balanced Ventilation which mean got two duct systems one is for the supply air and
another one is for the return air. Air supply through air diffuser and the exhaust vent. In
Subang Parade the major run with this system include public space, utilities room, shop and
offices. The hot air go back to AHU room through the exhaust vent and the fresh cool air
from AHU room go to those places through the air diffuser. Although this system is much
more expensive compare with exhaust and supply ventilation system but this system easily
control the interior air quality.
Figure 4.21 The Balanced Ventilation System Diagram.
Source: (http://www.arca53.dsl.pipex.com/index_files/vent4.htm )

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Figure 4.22 & Figure 4.23 The Diffuser For Shop.
In Subang Parade got square diffuser, Cone diffuser and linear slot diffuser. Those will be
show in diffuser part later.
Figure 4.24 Return Air Duct in AHU Room

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4.3.4 Components
1) Axis Flow Fan
2) Propeller Fan
3) Smoke Spill Fan
Fan
Axis Flow Fan is a type of compressor that increases the pressure of the air flowing through
it. The blades of axis fan forces air to parallel to shaft.
They are generally selected for simple extraction or cooling applications with low system
resistance, such as moving air from one large space to another.
Figure 4.25 Axial Flow Fan in Basement Car Park
Propeller Fan is a type of fan that use airfoil shaped blade in converting rotational motion
into thrust. Pressure produce between the forward and rear surface of the blade.
Propeller fan located at machinery room for example chiller plant room it is to exhaust the
heat produce by the machine to the exterior.
Figure 4.26 Propeller Fan In Chiller Plant Room
Smoke Spill Fan Is the Fan only operate when fire occur. Smoke Spill Fan normal locate at
the top of the Atrium of the Subang Parade.

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Figure 4.27 Smoke Spill Fan In Rooftop
Figure 4.28 The Control Panel Of All Exhaust Fan In Subang Parade
The control panel of exhaust fancan easily for the maintainer people to realise when any
error occur because if error occur the red light will light up. The layout of control panel id
based on the floor.

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Diffuser
Supply air diffusers are designed to distribute equal amount of air into the rooms of Subang
Parade Mall. Diffusers help to improve the efficiency of the entire air conditioning system by
dividing the distribution of air from AHU rooms.
At Subang Parade got 3 main types of diffusers being applied which are directional square,
linear slot diffuser and cone diffuser. Linear slot diffusers are found on the floor of offices
and some are mounted on the ceiling in public-use space like corridor. Directional square
and the cone diffuser can found in shops or toilets.
Figure 4.29 Linear Slot Diffuser in Corridor Figure 4.30 Directional Square found in shops
Figure 4.31 Cone Diffuser in the Toilet.

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Return Air Grille
Return air Grille function is to carry the air back to the specific area in AHU room. The return air grille
is covers with grillwork to cover up the duct behind it. It is also to avoid big objects from entering the
ducts and damaging the AHU. A Filter can also be found behind the grille to trap pollutant, which can
reduce the maintenance level.
Figure 4.32 Return Air Grille In Corridor.
Figure 4.33 Return Air Duct in AHU Room

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4.4 Discussion
The mechanical ventilation in Subang Parade Mall is considered quite good standard. All
components have maintained in a very good condition. For example, the filter in the
ductwork is cleans following the schedule. All ventilation system are arranged and organized
neatly and clear.
The open area in the car park provides the car park with good ventilation effect and because
of this the axis flow fan does not required to be operate fulltime to exhaust the gas
discharge by car. In this point, it helps to reduce the cost for their company. However, the
company may introduce new mechanical ventilation system to help to increase the
efficiency. The impulsion system Jet-fan is a solution to look forward to.
Overall, although Subang Parade Mall isn’t very grand in scale but it practiced good
mechanical ventilation and achieved the user comfort within the building.

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5.1 Introduction:
In a fast developing country like the current Malaysia, most building emphasizes a lot in the
comfort they provided to the users or consumers. Thermal comfort is one of the important
considerations in designing a proper and timeless building. To achieve thermal comfort,
several methods are used, for example: mechanical ventilation, sun-shading devices, natural
ventilation, and air-conditioning.
HVAC (a.k.a. heat, ventilation, and air conditioning) is the technology of indoor and
vehicular environmental comfort. Its goal is to provide thermal comfort and acceptable
indoor air quality. The air conditioning part is used to control the temperature, humidity, air
cleanliness and air movement & heat radiation with mechanical means, to achieve human
thermal comfort. Air conditioning system is an inevitable system that most large scale
building needs to have and it is essential to make sure the people within the building feel
comfortable. Air conditioning can affect the comfort of people and their performance, their
health and the workability of certain equipment.
The running of machinery for air conditioning usually are inseparable with electricity and
water supply. As air conditioning machinery require quite a large amount of electricity to
activate and run the machines and sufficient water supply to chill the hot members of the
machinery.
All air-conditioning system has a similar mechanism. There is always an evaporator that
absorbs heat, a condenser which discharges the heat, a compressor which channel the heat
absorbed to the condenser.
Cooling Tower
Return Air Grille
Chiller’s condenser
Chiller’s evaporator
Air Handling Unit
Diffuser
Diagram 5.1 the Mechanism of Centralized Air-conditioning Systems

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There are 4 types of air-conditioning system:
- Room air-conditioner (window unit)
- Split unit air-conditioning system
- Packaged unit air-conditioning system
- Centralized/Plant air-conditioning system
Room air-conditioner (window unit)
This is a small system that can only regulate the air of a small room. It has only one unit
which consists of the evaporator, compressor, and condenser within it.
Split unit air-conditioning system
This is the most popular type of system used in household. It consists of 2 units: the outdoor
unit which is the condenser that discharged hot air and the indoor unit which is the
evaporator that absorbs indoor hot air and let out fresh and cooled air. Both units are
connected by copper tubing covered with insulation.
Packaged unit air-conditioning system
It is similar to room air-conditioner but in a large scale which is more suitable to be used for
a larger space like a hall and restaurants. The size of the units is also large and stronger than
that of the room air-conditioner but the function and mechanism remain the same.
Centralized plant air-conditioning system
It is the most complex form of air-conditioning system. This system is usually used in malls
and offices. These spaces required to set up the whole system is several times larger than
the packaged unit air-conditioning system. It needs a room for all the machineries like the
condensers, compressors, cooling towers which the room is called the plant room. The plant
room usually consists of chiller, chilled water pump, water pump, control panel, air
compressor.
Air is cooled in the plant room, then they will be sent to the AHU (Air Handling Unit) located
in different floor levels and finally distribute through the diffuser. Hot air is then absorbs
again into the AHU and sent back to the plant room for cooling process.

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5.3 Case study
We are visiting Subang Parade to understand their building services systems. They are
actually using 2 types of air-conditioning system, which is the centralized air-conditioning
system and some split air unit air-conditioning system.
The split air conditioning system is use for those newly constructed area or shop slots which
don’t have the air-conditioning duct running through their ceiling. It is added later on due to
renovation and expansion of the mall. But the original and main air-conditioning system of
Subang Parade Mall is still the centralized plant air conditioning system.
Figure 5.1 the Outdoor Units of Some Shops
A centralized plant air-conditioning system is a system that required a source or plant where
the most air-conditioning machinery is located and the cooling of air take place there. This
source is called the ‘refrigeration plant’ but in Subang Parade Mall, this room is named ‘A/C
Plant Room’. Subang Parade Mall is using chilled water system as they are using a water
cooled chillers and cooling tower.
In this system, refrigerant is cooled in the plant room and distributed to the Air Handling
Unit (AHU) throughout the mall. The treated or cooled air is then supplied from the AHU to
the specific area. But in Subang Parade Mall, the refrigerant is cooled in the Cooling Tower
located on the rooftop of the mall. The cooled refrigerant is then sending back to the A/C
Plant Room where the chillers are located. The chillers then distributed the treated air to
the AHU. AHU then generate and distribute the air to the diffuser and cooled the spaces.

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Diagram 5.2 Air-conditioning Distribution Route of Subang Parade Mall
5.3.1 Plant Room
The ‘refrigeration plant’ but in Subang Parade Mall, this room is named ‘A/C Plant Room’.
Because of the heavy weight of the machinery, the plant is usually located at the ground
level, basement or underground in most 4 to 5 storey building. Transporting the heavy
machinery on to a higher level is not economical and causes a lot of problem. And the
vibration and noise created by the plant is disturbing, so locating it in a less travelled or
concealed area is highly advisable. The refrigeration plant of Subang Parade Mall is located
on the lower ground floor level. The control room is just next to the A/C Plant Room.
Figure 5.2 Locations of A/C Plant Room and Control Room

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Chiller
Figure 5.3 Chiller
Inside the plant there are 7 chillers in total; 4 larger chillers and 3 normal chillers. The larger
chiller work on a regular basis whereas the smaller chillers were only used when there is an
emergency or there’s a breakdown to any of the larger chillers. A chiller is a machine that
removes heat from a liquid. A chiller usually consists of condenser, evaporator and
compressor.
Diagram 5.3 Cycles of Heat Gain and Heat Lost

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Condenser
Condenser receive heated refrigerant from Evaporator and chill them using cooled
condensed water receive from the cooling tower. The chilled refrigerant is then sent back to
the Evaporator.
Evaporator
Evaporator receives the chilled refrigerant from the condenser and uses them to chill water.
The chilled water is then distributed to the AHU for further usage.
Compressor
The compressor is to compress the water chilled by the evaporator and distribute them to
the AHU through chilled water pump.
According to MS 1525 Code 8.2.2
Where chillers are used and when the design load is greater than 100kWr, a minimum of
two chillers or a single multi-compressor chiller should be provided to meet the required
load
Piping and Pump
There are two types of pump in a water chilling system. They are condensed water pump
and chilled water pump.
Condensed Water Pump
The condensed water pump works in a continuous cycle by supplying cooled water from the
cooling tower to the condenser in the chilled water plant and returning the hot water from
the condenser into the cooling tower.
Figure 5.4 Condensed water pump

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Chilled Water Pump
The chilled water pump also works in a cycle by transporting the chilled water from the
evaporator in the A/C Plant Room into the cooling coil in every AHU room, and receiving the
warm water from the AHU room back into the chilled water pipe.
Figure 5.5 Chilled Water Distribution Pump
Both the supply and return pump are differentiating into ‘CWS’ and ‘CWR’, which is ‘Chilled
Water Supply’ and ‘Chilled Water Return’.
Figure 5.6 ‘CWS’ and ‘CWR’ chilled water pumps
According to MS 1525 Code 8.5
All pipes installed to serve buildings and within buildings should be adequately insulated to
prevent excessive energy losses. Additional insulation with vapor barriers may be required
to prevent condensation under some conditions.

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5.3.2 Cooling Tower
Cooling tower is a device that enables heated condenser water to be sent to the tower by
the chiller’s condenser in the plant room to discharge their heat to the surrounding air. The
cooling tower of Subang Parade is located on the rooftop. They used to have 6 cooling
tower on the roof top but 2 of them broke down so they installed 2 new cooling tower,
making them own a total of 8 cooling towers. The reason that the cooling tower is exposed
on the rooftop without the cover of a roof is to maximize the surface area of it that is in
contact with the surrounding air. This maximizes the heat exchanges or transfer from the
cooling tower to the surrounding. The operation hour of the cooling tower is from 0930 til
2130, 12 hours daily. The cooling towers in Subang Parade Mall are clean and renew the
water within once every year.
Figure 5.7 Location of Cooling Tower in Subang Parade Mall
One of the types of the cooling tower used in Subang Parade is the packaged cooling towers
that pre-assembled in factory by the Nihon Spindle. Packaged cooling tower are compact
units but its own capacity is limited and is only suitable for buildings that has low heat
rejection requirement.
Figure 5.8 Cross Section of a Cooling Tower

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Another type is the mechanical draft cross flow cooling tower. The cooling rate of this type
defers as the diameter of the fan inside the tower and its speed of operation can adjusted
based on different need of buildings. The condensed water is pumped from the chiller room
at level LG to the sprinkler inside the tower, the sprinkler will then evenly dispersed the
water over the larger surface area PVC fillings for better evaporation and removing heat. An
induced draft fan draws the atmosphere air across the wetted fill and expels the hot air
from the top of the structure. The basin at the bottom of the cooling tower collects all the
cooled water and transfer back to the chiller room.
Figure 5.9 the Cooling Tower on the Rooftop of Subang Parade Mall
Piping
The piping from the cooling tower is less complicated compare with the piping from chiller.
There’s all together 3 main pipes related to cooling tower, the condense water pipe, the
water supply pipe and the balancing pipe.
Condensed Water Pipe
This pipe transfer warm water from the condenser to the cooling tower for cooling. The
cooling tower then channel the cooled water down to the condenser using the condense
water pipe. There’s two condense water pipes, one for return and one for supply.
Figure 5.10 Condense Water Pipe

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Water Supply Pipe
This pipe connects the cooling tower to the water tank. The water tank supply the cooling
tower with sufficient water. When cooling tower is undergoing cooling process, some water
will be lost through evaporation. Thus the water tank replaces the lost water with new
water through water supply pipe. The water level of the cooling tower is control by the float
ball inside.
Figure 5.11 The Green Pipe is the Water Supply Pipe Figure 5.12 Float Ball within Cooling Tower
Balancing Pipe
This pipe is used to equalized and balance the water within the cooling tower. Ensuring the
content of water within each and every cooling tower is the same.
Figure 5.13 Balancing Pipe
The system design should provide means for balancing the air and water system such as but
not limited to dampers, temperature and pressure test connections and balancing valves

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5.3.3 Air Handling Unit Room
Air Handling Unit room is a room that handles the air. Air
Handling Unit (AHU) rooms are distributed throughout the whole
mall. In a regular or small building, there is only one AHU on each
floor. But due to the large area of Subang Parade Mall, each floor
consists of at least 12 AHU rooms. But Subang Parade Mall is
using a different air-conditioning system around the cinemas’
area so half of the AHU room belongs to another system. Since
we are not looking into that system, there are only 6 AHU rooms
on each floor that connect to the centralize plant system here.
Figure 5.14 Entrances to AHU
Figure 5.15 The Location of all AHU Room in Subang Parade Mall

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AHU allow air flow into it. The air is then undergoes a certain process of cooling and then
discharge out into the spaces. Components within the AHU include the air filter, the fan, the
cooling coil and a mixing box. The chiller from the A/C Plant room pump chilled water to the
AHU’s cooling coil. This chilled water cooled the coil. The AHU draws the air from the spaces.
These air passes through an air filter which filter dust and some unpleasant substances from
the air or simply refresh the air. The fan within the AHU then blows this air through the
cooling coil which has been cooled by the chilled water from the chiller. The cooled coil
cools this air. The air is then channeled to the diffuser where they can cool the spaces again.
After these airs have gained certain heat energy, they’ll be draw back into the AHU to
repeat the cycle.
Figure 5.16 Air Handling Units
Air Filter
Air filter filtered the air flowing through it, removing dirt, dust or some unwanted
substances from the air. Doing so refreshed the air, providing the consumers a better air
quality while shopping. The filter is clean once every three months in Subang Parade Mall.
Fan
The fan control the air flow, or you can say that it maintain the continuity of the air flow.
There are actually two fans within the AHU. One fan pushes the air through the cooling coil
while the other one pushes the air into the supply duct which then the air is channel to the
diffuser to be discharge into the spaces.
Cooling Coil
The cooling coil is made using copper pipe due to its marketing price and thermal quality.
The pipe is coiled up to increase the surface area in contact with the passing air. Heat from
the air is transfer into the copper coil while the air passes through them. The pipe receive
heat energy and thus it temperature rise. But the continuous supply of chilled water from
the chiller through the chilled water pipe then cooled the copper pipe. Enabling another
cycle to happen.

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Mixing Box
When the air flow back into the AHU, it will be carrying carbon dioxide as well. When the
sensor detected that there is excessive carbon dioxide, the mixing box will exhaust some of
the recycled air and intake some fresh air from the exterior. The fresh air is mixed with the
cooled air here then discharge into the supply duct by the fan.
Figure 5.17 Mechanism of AHU
Figure 5.18 Release of Contaminated Air from Mixing Box

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5.3.4 Ducting system
Figure 5.19 Ducting Systems in Subang Parade
Ducting system is the system that provides a path way that channels the cooled air from the
AHU to the diffuser. The ducting is made of galvanized steel because it acts as good heat
insulation between the cooled air within the duct and the air outside the duct. Ensuring the
air being transfer is still cool when it reaches the furthest outlet. All the ducting in Subang
Parade Mall is hidden above the suspended ceiling.
According to MS 1525 Code 8.11.1
chiller water pumps circulating chilled water through the piping system external to the
packaged, and cooling tower pumps and fans circulating water or air through the condenser
and cooling tower are not to be included in the consideration of the COP for the component

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5.3.5 Diffuser
Diffuser included supply air diffuser and return air grille. The supply air diffuser is the outlet
of cooled air transfer from the AHU whereas the return air grille captures warmer air and
channel them back to the AHU.
There 2 types of supply air diffuser that can be seen in Subang Parade Mall which is the
linear slot diffuser and the directional square diffuser.
The linear slot diffuser is suitable for linear space such as corridors or pathways. All the
corridors in Subang Parade Mall are using linear slot diffuser as they can span longer and
regulate the corridors’ temperature without much difference.
Figure 5.20 Linear Slot Diffuser
The directional square diffuser however is being used in almost most of the shop as most
shop is concentric and square-ish.
Figure 5.21 Directional Square Diffuser

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Return air grille is similar to an exhaust as it uses the physics of hot air is lighter and rises.
The return air grille attached to the ceiling where when warmer or hot air rise, they will
capture them and channel them back to the AHU for cooling.
Figure 5.22 Return Air Grilles
Diagram 5.4 Cycle of Warmed and Cooled Air in the Spaces
Air handling duct system insulation:
All ducts, plenums and enclosures installed in or on buildings should be adequately to
prevent excessive energy lost. Additional insulation with vapor barriers may be required to
prevent energy lost

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5.3.6 Control room
The control room is located right next to the A/C Plant room as constant observation of the
machinery is needed in order to control the thermal quality throughout the whole Subang
Parade Mall. There is a complex and large control panel within the control room which
shows the pressure and temperature if all the chillers. In case of emergency, technicians can
manually adjust the workload of the chiller.
Figure 5.23 Control Panel within the Control Room

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5.4 Discussion
The centralized air-conditioning system used in Subang Parade Mall is the most economical
and aesthetic compare to other systems. It is because other system like required more area
and spaces to enable the setup of individual air-conditioning parts. Room air-conditioning
system and split air-conditioning system have a smaller power compare to the heavy
machinery used in centralized system, making them not suitable to cool large spaces like a
mall or shopping complex. The amount of cooling tower is also more than expected. They
are also considering the breakdown of cooling tower, thus preparing more cooling tower in
case something goes wrong.
The consideration of preparing some backup chiller in case the main chiller overload or
broken down is a very convenient and user-considerate. The fact that they are having
multiple AHU in every level also provides a better coverage and air quality for the whole
Subang Parade Mall.
Using different type of diffuser along in the corridor and the shop slot also prove that they
are considering the usage of spaces while planning the equipment. Corridor is very long,
using linear slot diffuser is better to maximize cooling effect whereas shop slot in s confine
space, using directional square diffuser is more efficient.
The control panel in the control room is big and complex. The complexity of the control
panel allows it to be able to control the function of machinery easily through buttons.
Regulating the temperature, controlling the ventilation and maintaining the functionality of
the machines.

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6. Mechanical Transportation

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6.1 Introduction
The common mechanical transportations are elevator, escalator and travelator. Escalator
and elevator are more commonly to be seen especially in public area whereby they allow
people to reach one floor to another in a faster way compared to conventional staircase.
Thanks to both Jesse W. Reno and Elisha Graves Otis, both invented escalator and elevator
respectively in 19 century during the industrial civilization. Perhaps because of this effective
vertical transportation, nowadays we can build so many high rise buildings. The only
drawback is they are powered by electrical energy and shut down in case during emergency
such as fire and earthquake.
According to Clause 124 Uniform Building by Laws 1984
A lift shall be provided for non residential building which exceeds 4 storey and above /
below main entrance.
- Necessary in building less than 4 storeys if access for senior and disable is enforced
- Maximum walking distance to the lift lobby is 45m
- Lift should be placed strategically so that users can access it easily, should be placed in
the central part of the building to minimize the horizontal distance
According to Clause 153 Uniform Building by Laws 1984
- A smoke detector should be placed at the elevator’s lobby
- An elevator should be wide enough for 2 directional transits.

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The variations of mechanical transportation are shown below:
The selection of the types and the number of the elevator and escalator in public buildings is
determined by 3 main factors: Number of population, waiting time and round trip time
(RTT). These factors sometimes are hard to be estimated but there is a difference for
building with different purpose. For example, the waiting time for an elevator in shopping
mall is longer than office building, when an officer is impatient in waiting an elevator, he will
choose other pathway such as escalator or staircase. Research had been done suggested
that under 20 seconds is idea for office building. Round trip time is the time taken for an
elevator to finish perform and order and back to its original position. Reducing the RTT can
be achieved using zoning. Whereas for travelator, it is usually to be installed in longitudinal
buildings such as airport to minimized the time travel within the building.
Mechanical Transportation
Elevator / lift EscalatorTravelator
Crisscross
Hydraulic
Motorless Motor
Electrical
ParallelDirect Indirect

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6.3 Case Study
Just like most shopping complex everywhere, Subang Parade Mall owns several mechanical
transportations that transport consumer from level to level. Within Subang Parade Mall,
there are escalator, lift and lift bomba. The type of mechanical transportation plays a very
important role in providing and connecting people to places or shops.
Figure 6.1 basement plan of Subang parade
Figure 6.2 lower ground floor plan of Subang parade

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Figure 6.3 ground floor plan of Subang parade
Figure 6.4 floor plan of Subang parade
Red – Location of traction lift
Blue – Location of Hydraulic lift
Green – Location of escalator
The Figures 6.1 – 6.4 show the location of escalator, elevator and the hydraulic lift of Subang parade.

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6.3.1 Elevator
There are 2 types of elevator used in Subang parade, electrical lift with motor room and
hydraulic lift.
Electrical Lift
The driving system used in Subang parade is traction geared method with a motor room
above the elevator. Traction method can be further divided into 2 categories, Geared and
gearless traction. Gearless is mainly used in high rise building because it can speed up to 610
m per minutes compared to geared traction which is only 152 m. The traction geared
elevator is lifted by cables which tied to the sheave with a worm or helical gears that
reduces the speed rotation of the motor about 1/10th thus saving the power supply. The
maximum load it can carry is 13600 kg ( 30000 lb ). Counterweight also introduced into the
elevator to offset the weight of the car and the user thus reducing the power to rotate the
motor. The main principal of how an elevator works is just like a see saw.
Figure 6.5 shows the components of motor room elevator

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Car
The car, which is supported by car frame, is built with fire resistant material with floor and
ceiling finishes. All part of the elevator should be sealed except premises opening such as
ventilation, car door and emergency trap door. The door of the car should be wide enough
for 2 directional transits. The dimension of car in Subang parade is about 2 x 2 m which is
comfortable enough for the users with a centre opening door. The dimension of the lift
bomba is same as the normal passengers’ lift in Subang parade.
Figure 6.6 Car Figure 6.7 Counterweight
Counterweight
It used to balance the weight of the car. Its weight is around 40 to 50 % of the load of the
car plus the load of live load. It goes up when the elevator go down and vice versa. The
theory of how it works is just like a see saw. The reason why counterweight is introduced
includes:
- Reduces the energy required by motor to lift the weight
- Easier to control the car during the journey
- Reduces the cable’s strain

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Shaft
It is a vertical pathway for the car to travel. The size depends on the speed of car also the
type of door gear used. The shaft extended to pit where the buffer located, which installed
to reduce the impact of the descending car or the counterweight. A standard lift shaft
should be water tight, has no other services except those operate the elevator, and has a
ventilation void for emission of smoke and light for inspection.
Figure 6.8 Shaft Figure 6.9 Speed Governor
Speed Governor
As shown in Figure 6.9, It contains massive flywheel (green) which has centrifugal arms
inside (red). When the speed of the elevator is more than 20 % of the top speed, the arms
fly outwards triggering the safety mechanism (yellow) that applies brake to the governor
cable (grey). The spring (blue) is used to hold the arms in. If the car continues to fall, there
is also rail clamp which clamp themselves to the guide rail by wedging action.

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Elevator Pit
It is the bottom part of the elevator. It should be water free and drainage is installed. Buffer
is also installed so it reduces the impact during an emergency It is achieved either by
accumulating or dissipating the kinetic energy of the car or the counterweight. Buffer can be
classified into few types as shown below:
Polyurethane Buffer Spring Buffer Oil Buffer
Figure 6.10 Elevator Pit Types
For Subang parade, the buffer used is spring buffer (for both hydraulic lift and traction lift)
this is because oil buffer is usually for elevator which travel faster than 200 feet per minute.
Gearbox Motor
Cable Traction sheave
Figure 6.11 Geared Traction Machine
Geared traction machine
The machine is coupled with a gearbox which reduces the power of the motor used to lift
the elevator. The cables are wrapped over the traction sheave to the counterweight.

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Cables
The cables, usually made up of steel cables, fixed on the top of the car and loop over the
sheave and the other end of the cables connect counterweight. They are designed to hold
the load of the car and live load. Usually 4 to 8 cables for one elevator and the diameter are
in 1/2’’ or 5/8’’. Some high rise building use flat steel belts because of its high carbon fibre
core and high fiction coating which cut down the consumption of energy significantly.
Figure 6.12 Cable
Wrapping and roping method of the cables
There are 2 types of wrapping method for cable to the traction sheave
- Single wrapping
- Double wrapping
-
As the name suggest, single wrapping literally means cable wraps over the sheave once and
connect to the counterweight and same principal applies to double wrapping. The
difference is single wrapping is for medium and low speed elevator and double wrapping is
for the higher speed elevator.

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Roping method
Figure 6.13 shows the roping method of the elevator
Figure Roping Roping Method Types of elevator
a 1:1 Half wrap ( single wrap ) Mid-low speed
b 1:1 Full wrap ( double wrap ) High
c 1:1 Drum winding Home
d 1:1 Drum winding Low, small
e 2:1 Full wrap ( double wrap ) High
f 2:1 Half wrap ( single wrap ) Freight
g 2:1 Half wrap ( single wrap ) Machine room-less
h 3:1 Half wrap ( single wrap ) Large freight
i 4:1 Half wrap ( single wrap ) Large freight
Table 6.1 Roping Methods
The roping system used by Subang parade is 2:1 single wrap. Freight elevator, in short, is
designed to carry heavy loads such as vehicle and goods. The reason behind why Subang
parade used this system because there is no specific service elevator for goods to be
transported and the dimension of the elevator is larger than the residential one. The
benefit of using the 2:1 system is because it reduces the load by half and therefore the
diameter of the cables can be smaller but it also reduces the car speed by half.

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Hydraulic Elevator
Figure 6.14 Hydraulic Elevators in Subang Parade Mall
Hydraulic power unit powers the oil in fluid reservoir. The pressured oil thus pushes the car
upwards and automatically goes down following the oil but is stopped when the valve is
sealed which can be manually controlled. Hydraulic elevator is placed at the east and west
of Subang parade. Sadly they are under maintenance currently.
Figure 6.15 shows the schematic diagram of the bottom part of hydraulic elevator
There are 2 types of hydraulic elevator
- Direct acting
- Indirect acting

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Figure 6.16 shows the component of the hydraulic elevators
Direct Acting
The ratio movement of the plunger to the car is 1:1
Indirect Acting
Deflector sheave and suspension sheave connect the plunger and the car. The movement
ratio of the plunger to the car is 1: 2. Subang parade is using this type of acting
Advantages of Hydraulic Elevator
The demand of the hydraulic elevator is falling because of the introduction of machine room
less machine. However, the hydraulic elevator has its own advantages compare to electric
power elevator
- The load is carried by the ground rather than the motor and the counterweight.
- The space (hoist way) used to constructed can therefore be smaller because the
absence of counterweight and require a small machine room.
- The structural members such as brake, pulley, and cables is not necessary
- The maintenance cost is therefore low.

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Elevator Car Control
There are 3 types of systems used to control the movement of elevator.
- Drive control system
- Operational control system
- Supervisory system
Drive control system is actually by varying the frequency and the voltage of the of
alternating current (AC) which controls rotational speed of the motor to achieve
acceleration or deceleration.
Operational control system controls the motion of the car such as when the door should
open.
Supervisory system is assigning which car answers which car call. Subang parade is using the
selective collective system.
Alarm button
Current car position
Floor selection buttons
Door opening button Door closing button
The figure 6.17 shows the cover of car operational panel (COP)

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Issues of Elevator
Time is money. The performance of elevator should be efficient in order to save the time of
the passenger. People who use elevator have at least once concern about how long they
should wait. One of the main issues of elevator is bunching. Bunching is a phenomenon
whereby the elevator is close to each other, resulting the longer average waiting time (AWT)
for passengers. AWT can be minimized if the elevator is evenly distributed amongst the
floors. This can be done by dispatching the optimum car to serve the particular call. The
dispatching car can be done with or without the instantaneous car assignment (ICA). The
benefit of using ICA is it chooses the best car to serve the hall call and it gives signal to the
users of which car will serve his call. The second issue is when there is no power supply and
in event during fire. Each of which has its own emergency system to tackle the issue. The
operation by emergency power source (OEPS) which allows the elevator to operate using
the backup power to avoid people from trapping inside. The elevator will continue to work
once the power is restored. In case of fire, there are 2 types of emergency systems
- Fire emergency return operation ( FER )
- Fireman’s Emergency operation ( FE )
The FER will back to evacuation floor with door opened during fire whereas firefighter will
operate the elevator for fire fighting purposes.

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6.3.2 Escalator
Escalator is sometimes performs better than elevator because it requires no waiting time
and it works continuously. The speed range is around 0.45m/s to 0.7m/s and the width of
the tread can be 600mm to 1200mm (1000 mm for Subang Parade) with a degree of 30°.
The company which builds the escalator in Subang parade is Schindler.
Case study
Arrangement of the escalator in Subang parade
There are 2 types of arrangements for escalator
• Parallel
• crisscross
Both of these arrangements can be seen in Subang parade.
Figure 6.18 shows the parallel arrangement
Figure 6.19 shows the crisscross arrangement
Both of these arrangements have their own benefit, parallel arrangement is eye pleasing
whereas criss-cross saves space.

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Main component of escalator
Figure 6.20 shows the components of escalator
Main component Function
Electric motor Used to power the escalator
Balustrade Avoid people from falling down and a hand grip while
travelling
Step ( pallet ) Is one piece die cast aluminum with yellow lines painted
as the border lines
Landing Used to conceal the machine beneath the escalator
Emergency stop switch Stop the escalator manually in case of accident
Step ( pallet ) chain Located on the both sides of the steps, it is driven by the
its’ sprocket

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Figure 6.21 shows the schematic diagram of how an escalator works
The principal of how an escalator work is just like a bicycle. The main part is the gears at the
bottom and the top and with a chain loop around them. Electric motor is used to drive them.
Safety Features
Few safety procedure are taken into consideration to avoid accidents
- The speed of handrail is equal to the speed of the escalator
- The border line is clearly marked on step
- The width of the escalator is wide enough and with comb pattern to avoid sliding
The escalator will stop automatically by its own brake if the following cases happen
- When the fire devices is activated
- When unknown object is trapped or wedged into the handrail inlet
- The step chain is damaged
Subang Parade also has 2 types of fire protection nearby the escalator
- Roller shutter
- Spray nozzle curtain
Figure 6.22 shows the roller shutter of Subang parade Figure 6.23 shows the spray nozzle curtain

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6.4 Discussion
As no doubt the mechanical transportation benefit in our daily lives in whatever way
however, people have to beware while using these machine especially escalator. There have
been numerous accident happened around the world especially in China, some are even
fatal. The maintenance team has to check the machines time to time in order to avoid any
unpleasant event.
Like any other services in the mall, providing and ensuring the safety of consumer is the
most important consideration. Especially moving machinery like lifts and escalator that carry
consumer here and there. There are already reported several accident taken place due to
the malfunction of the mechanical transportation. Giving awareness to users while using
these transporters is necessary to ensure their own safety.
Other precaution:
Figure 6.24 shows the warning of wearing rubber shoes while using escalator
Figure 6.25 shows the emergency stop switch of the escalator

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7.1 Introduction
Fire is a chemical reaction of combustion, releasing bright light, heat and smoke. The basic
triangle elements which triggers a fire are oxygen, fuel and heat. Fire can occur in three
main ways, by accidents due to the misuse of appliances, dropping a cigarette or matches
on a flammable material, the deliberate ignition or arson by certain people and also the
failure of equipment such as the malfunctions or overheating of the machines or electrical
cables. Thus, fire protection is needed in every building. Fire protection is a safety measures
that is conducted to prevent or delay fire from becoming destructive by reducing the impact
from uncontrolled fire which could bring danger to the occupants inside the building. There
are two type of fire protection systems applied in a building, the active fire protection and
also the passive fire protection.

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The objective of fire protection in a building is to mainly prepare for: life safety, property
protection and to minimize the business interruption. There are two major types of fire
protection:
- Active Fire Protection
- Passive Fire Protection
Passive fire protection is implying into the building mainly during the construction stages.
These include fire door, fire wall, and escape route, etc. to ensure in case of emergency,
visitors can escape and get away from the fire effectively and efficiently.
Whereas active fire protection system includes the automatic or manual operation system
such as detecting and alarm systems, water based system, non- water based system,
fireman intercom system and smoke control system. These systems includes the function of
retarding or delay the progress of fire spread, putting out the fire, and alerting the building
occupants when there is a fire. These systems can be divided into three parts: Detection,
Notification, and Actions.
Detection
When there is a breakout of fire, it often comes with smoke and heat. In this building, the
smoke and heat detectors are used to detect the smoke and heat.
Alerting
The detectors will initiate an alarm to alert the occupants inside the building. The purpose of
the alarm is to warn occupants to evacuate from the building or to inform the respective
staffs to take some action to extinguish the fire. It acts as an early warning of the outbreak
of fire before it getting to serious spread out.
Actions
Once the fire is detected, there are two systems will be taking in action to control the
situation. There is Water Based System and Non- water based system.
Aim:
Detecting the fire early and evacuate the building
Alerting emergency services at an early stage of the fire
Control the movement of smoke and fire
Suppress and/ or starve the fire of oxygen and fuel.

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7.3 Case Study
7.3A Active Fire Protection
Generally, most of the malls in Malaysia as well as Subang Parade are applying the 3 systems
in their active fire protection, the detecting system, alerting system and controlling system.
Basically, the detecting system involves the fire detector which is the smoke detector. The
smoke detector using in Subang Parade is photoelectric smoke detector. The alerting system
is the fire alarm bell and manual pull station. On the other hand, there is also
communicating system involves when there is an outbreak of fire, such as the fire intercom
station. Next, the acting system is divided into two parts: the water based system and the
non-water based system. The components involving in water based system are the water
sprinkler system, fire hydrant, wet and dry riser and hose reel. The sprinkler used in Subang
Parade is the pendent sprinkler and the upright sprinkler. Lastly, the non- water based
system is the fire extinguishers. There are 2 types of fire extinguisher found in Subang
Parade. The dry powder fire extinguisher is normally used by the interior of the mall itself,
while the carbon dioxide fire extinguisher is used in the transformer room.

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7.3A.1 Fire Detection and Communication System
Smoke Detector
Smoke detector is typically as an indicator of fire to sense smoke. It shaped like a disk about
150 millimeters in diameter and 25 millimeters thick. This detector usually powered by a
central fire alarm system, which is powered by the building power with a battery backup.
This detector uses either a small radioactive source or a beam of light and a photocell. The
smoke will interrupt the flow of ions or the passage of light and thereby activate the
detector. When fire happens, the smoke detectors will detect the smoke which is placed
around the area and triggers alarm to notify the occupants in the building for evacuation.
Figure 7.1: photoelectric smoke detector on the ceiling of Subang Parade
There are two types of smoke detector commonly found in the market that is photoelectric
smoke detector and ionization smoke detector. For Subang Parade, they used photoelectric
smoke detector.
Figure 7.2: The mechanism of a photoelectric smoke detector
Source: (Giaimo, 2016)

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Photoelectric smoke detector is generally more responsive to fires that begin with a long
period of combustion with smoke but without flame. The detector works when smoke
reflecting the straight light from light source on to the sensing chamber to trigger the alarm.
Figure 7.3: The components in a photoelectric smoke detector
Source: ("Smoke detector", 2016)
According to clause 225 (1), Uniformed Building by- Laws 1984:
Every building shall be provided with means of detecting and extinguishing fire and alarms
together with illuminated exit signs in accordance with the requirements as specified in the
Tenth Schedule to these By- Laws.
According to clause 153, uniformed building by- laws 1984: Smoke detectors for lift lobbies.
1. All lift lobbies shall be provided with smoke detectors
2. Lift not opening into a smoke lobby shall not use door
3. Reopening devices controlled by light beam or photo detectors unless incorporated with
a force close features which after thirty second of any interruption of the beam causes
the door to close within a pre-set time.
1. Optical Chamber
2. Cover
3. Case moulding
4. Photodiode( detector)
5. Infrared LED

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7.3A.2 Fire Control Room and Intercom Station
Fire Control Room
Figure 7.4: The Fire Control Room of Subang Parade
The fire control room in Subang Parade is located at ground floor near to the lift lobby and
staircase and it is being observed by 2 guards continuously and standby to manage and
appropriate action if there are any signal from the detectors comes directly to the control
unit.
Location of Fire Control Room
Figure 7.5: Location of fire control room in Subang Parade
The main control unit may use advanced electronic techniques and computer equipment,
which will not only give warning of a fire condition but will also monitor the entire system.
Any fault or fire condition will be indicated both audibly and visually at the control panel
and information can be relayed to the local fire brigade or other remote point.

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According to clause 238, Uniformed Building by- Laws 1984: Command and Control Centre
Every large premises or building exceeding 30.5 meters in height shall be provided with a
command and control center located on the designated floor and shall contain a panel to
monitor the public address, fire bridge communication, sprinkler, water flow detectors, fire
detection and alarm systems and with a direct telephone connection to the appropriate fire
station by passing the switchboard.
Figure 7.6: The interior of Fire Control Room
Figure 7.7: Fire intercom inside the fire control room which links to the
nearest Jambatan Bomba

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Fire Intercom Station
The fireman Intercom System is used by the fireman to communicate with control room
master console through the handset stations is located at staircase of each floor in Subang
Parade. At the Master control panel, a call alert lamp will flash with audible signal when
there is incoming call. Upon lifting the handset, the audible signal will be silenced. The
master control panel is also equipped with a fault indicator unit to indicate the type of fault.
Figure 7.8: Remove handset of fire intercom system
According to clause 237, uniformed building by- laws 1984:
1. Fire alarms shall be provided in accordance with the Tenth Schedule to these by- laws.
2. All premises and building with gross floor area excluding car park and storage area
exceeding 9290 square meters or exceeding 30.5m in height shall be provided with a
two- stage alarm system with evacuation ( continuous signal) to be given immediately in
the affected section of the premises while an alert ( intermittent signal) be given
adjoining section.
3. Provision shall be made for the general evacuation of the premises by action of a
master control.

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7.3A.3 Fire Emergency Alarm System
There are two types of fire alarm mechanism that need to be installed in a building to notify
the occupants that there may be a fire and need to be evacuated. The two types of the
mechanisms for fire alarm are the manual pull system and fire alarm bell.
Figure 7.9: Fire emergency alarm system found in lift lobby
Alarm bell
Figure 7.10: Alarm Bell found in lift lobby
Alarm bell can be function in manual or automatically once the glass of manual call point is
broken. If a smoke or heat detector detect a positive result or someone operates the
manual call point, the alarm bell will function to alert the occupants in the building to notify
there may be a fire and to evacuate. It may also incorporate remote signalling equipment,
which would alert the fire brigade via Subang Parade.
Figure 7.11: A row of fire alarm bells in front of the water tank room

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Manual Call Point
Manual alarm call points are designed for the purpose of raising an alarm manually once
verification of a fire or emergency condition exists, by operating the push button or break
glass the alarm signal can be raised. They can form part of a manual alarm system or an
automatic alarm system. There will be an indicator on the monitoring unit for visual
indication to locate the call point easily, and there should be a visual identifier of the unit
which triggered the alarm, typically a mechanical flag which operates on a latch and must be
manually reset, e.g. by a key.
Figure 7.12: Manual call point (break glass) found at lift lobby
The manual call points should be installed on the floor side of an access door to a staircase
so the floor of origins indicated at the control panel. Extra call points should be installed,
where necessary, so that the greatest travel distance from any point in the building to the
nearest call point does not exceed 30m. A greater number of call point maybe needed in
high risk areas or if the occupant are likely to be slow in movement.

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Manual Pull and Key Switch
They are normally located nearby to HT substation and gen set room. The key switch or pull
box can be activated immediately when the room is on fire.
Figure 7.13: Manual pull station outside transformer room in Subang Parade
According to clause 155, uniformed building by- laws 1984
The fire mode of operation shall be initiated by a signal from the alarm panel which may be
activated automatically by one of the alarm devices in the building or manually.
Automated processes triggered by fire alarms
1. All fire shutters and fire curtains will fall within 5 minutes when the fire alarm goes off in
any zone
2. The fire alarm in the zone will be triggered in a specific zone where the fire shutters and
fire curtains be triggered when the smoke detector has been activated.
3. The fire alarms in a specific zone will be automatically triggered in any zone due to the
activation of sprinklers in any zone
4. All lifts will return to the designated floors without answering any car or landings calls
when there is a fire alarm
5. When there is a fire alarm, the fire lift only responds to car calls

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7.3A.4 Water Based Fire Protection System
Water Tank
The firewater storage tank is located at the basement level 1 in the fire pump room. The
water sprinkler system and the hose reel system uses the same water. The volume of water
contained in the tank needed to be sufficient to supply to the whole building.
Figure 7.14: Water tank storage found inside the fire pump room in level 1
1. Water storage capacity and water flow rate for firefighting system and installation
shall be provided in accordance with the scale as in the tenth schedule to these By-
laws.
2. Main water storage tanks within the building, other than for the hose reel system,
shall be located at ground, first or second basement levels, with fire brigade
pumping inlet connection accessible to fire appliances.
3. Storage tanks for automatic sprinkler installation where full capacity is provided
without the need for replenishment shall be exempted from the restrictions in their
location.

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Automatic Sprinkler System
Water sprinkler system is the most crucial among firefighting systems. A sprinkler
installation is a first- aid system for dealing with a fire in its early stages and cannot be relied
upon to deal with a large fire which has started in, or spread from, an unprotected part of
the building. It can be found throughout the building location but not at the electrical
sensitive room.
Figure 7.15: Distribution of water sprinkler system
Source: (Hizmnetleri, 2016)
These water sprinkler systems are usually located at ceiling level and are connected to a
reliable water source, most commonly city water. For our case study, it is found covered the
ceiling level on every floor. There are two types of sprinkle found: the Pendent Sprinkler and
the Upright Sprinkler
The dimension between two sprinkler head is 4.2m in wide and 3m high.

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Pendent Sprinkler
Figure 7.16: Pendent sprinkler hang down from ceiling level of each floor
Pendent sprinkler heads hang down from the pipeline and spray water in circle pattern. Its
water deflector is places at the bottom. When concealed, pendent sprinklers hide under the
ceiling with a special cap that falls away when the surrounding temperature rises to a
prescribed level. If the temperature continues to rise, the concealed pendent head will drop
automatically and begins to spray water.
Figure 7.17: Closer view of Pendent Sprinkler
Source: ("Fire Sprinklers Exporter, Manufacturer & Supplier, Fire Sprinklers India", 2016)
Fire Sensing element:
Frangible glass bulb which
contains a heat responsive
liquid

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Upright Sprinkler
Upright sprinkler heads project up into a space and have deflectors that spray the water
downward. They are generally used in mechanical rooms or other inaccessible areas to
provide better coverage between obstructions like beams or ducts. They also provide a
circle spray pattern. This upright sprinkler is used mostly in place where obstructions may
block the water spray during a fire. Their height allow them to aim water around possible
obstacles.
Figure 7.18: Upright sprinkler found at the basement car park
An automatic sprinkler system comprises of:
- Pipe works & valves
- Pumping systems
- Sprinkler water tank
- Control valve set
- Sprinkler heads
- Flow & pressure switches

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Sprinkler Tank and Sprinkler Pumps
The water for the sprinkler piping system is supplied from a reinforced concrete tank
located in basement. The sprinkler pump draws water from the sprinkler tank, to distribute
the water to the sprinklers. The sprinkler pump comprises a check valve, which serves as the
Jockey pump. It is sensitive to changes in water pressure in the sprinkler piping system.
When any sprinkler is activated and water is discharged through the sprinklers in that zone,
the pressure in the valve is reduced, triggering the duty pumps to pump water from the
Sprinkler tank.
Figure 7.19: The sprinkler pumps in water tank room
There are a total of 3 pumps to supply water to the sprinkler systems of all zones and each
level with holding pressure of 120 psi. There is only one jockey pump of or all Duty pumps
will be triggered to pump water from the RC sprinkler tank. Since only one sprinkler in the
affected zone has been activated, the rest of the sprinklers will not discharge water, even
though the duty pumps are connected to the zone have been activated to pump water.
According to clause 226, uniformed building by- laws 1984: Automatic system for hazardous
occupancy
Where hazardous processes, storage or occupancy are of such character as to require
automatic system sprinklers or other such character as to require automatic system
sprinklers or other automatic extinguishing system, it shall be of a type and standard
appropriate to extinguish fire in the hazardous materials stored or handled or for the safety
of the occupants.
According to clause 7, uniformed building by- laws 1976: 7.7.1.5: Sprinkler valves
Sprinkler valves shall be located in a safe and enclosed position on the exterior wall and
shall be readily accessible to the Fire Authority. All sprinkler systems shall be electrically
connected to the nearest fire station to provide immediate and automatic relay of the alarm
when activated.

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Deluge system
Deluge systems are systems in which all sprinklers connected to the water piping system are
open, in that the heat sensing operating element is removed, or specifically designed as
such. These systems are used for special hazards where rapid fire spread is a concern, as
they provide a simultaneous application of water over the entire hazard. They are
sometimes installed in personnel egress paths or building openings to slow travel of fire (e.g.
openings in a fire-rated wall).
Figure 7.20: Water deluge system diagram
Source: ("Pre-Action Systems | UNISAFE Fire Protection Systems | Cairo, Egypt", 2016)
Water is not present in the piping until the system operates. Because the sprinkler orifices
are open, the piping is at atmospheric pressure. To prevent the water supply pressure from
forcing water into the piping, a "deluge valve" is used in the water supply connection, which
is a mechanically latched valve. It is a non-resetting valve, and stays open once tripped.
Figure 7.21: Components in a typical deluge system
Source: ("Norm Teknik, Fire Protection Systems", 2016)

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7.3A.5 Fire Pump Room
Figure 7.22: The fire pump room of Subang Parade
Fire Hose Reel System
Hose reel system is intended to be used by occupants during the early stages of fire. The
system needs to be manually operated and activated by opening a valve, enabling the water
to flow into the hose that is typically 30 meters away. The hose reel used in the building is
40m in length with 30mm diameter.
Figure 7.23: Hose reel is kept inside a small room
A hose reel system comprises of:
- Hose reel pump
- Hose reels
- Water storage tank
- Pipe works
- Valves

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Figure 7.24: Hose reel pump connected to water storage tank
There are 3 types of pumps in a hose reel system:
- Duty pump
- Standby pump
- Jockey pump
Duty pump
Duty pump is the pump which is on duty all the times. When pressure in pipe goes down,
the duty pump takes the lead and supplies enough pressure of water to maintain the system
running in order. It can be switched off manually from the control panel in case of necessity.
Standby Pump
Standby pump as its name, it is served as a backup pump for the duty pump in order to
maintain the minimum pressure of system. When duty pump fails to operate due to some
defaults, standby pump is activated automatically by the system. It can be manually
switched off from the control panel.
Figure 7.25: Standby pump

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Jockey Pump
It is a small pump connected to a fire sprinkler system to maintain pressure in the sprinkler
pipers this is to ensure that if a fire sprinkler is activated, there will be a pressure drop,
which will be sensed by the fire pumps automatic controller, then will cause the fire pump
to start.
Figure 7.26: water sprinkler supply jump (jockey pump)
Cut- in (psi) Cut- out (psi)
Duty pump 65 Manual
Standby pump 55 Manual
Jockey pump( auto) 75 85
Table 7.1 the pressure of cut in and cut out for the different pumps
The advantages of using wet pope fire sprinkler system are that the system is simple and
reliable. Besides, it requires low installation and maintenance expenses. The system is ease
of modification and it requires least amount of effort to restore. The main disadvantages is
that they are not suitable for sub- freezing environment. Besides, they are subject to sever
impact damage and could subsequently leak.
According to clause 244, uniformed building by- laws 1984: Hydraulic Hose Reels
Hose reel shall be located at every 45 meters (depends on building form). Besides fire hose
reel should be located at strategic places in buildings, especially nearer to firefighting
access lobbies in order to provide a reasonably accessible and controlled supply of water for
fire extinguishing.

85
Location of Fire Hose Reel
Basement Floor
Lower Ground Floor
Ground Floor
First Floor
Location of Fire Hose Reel

86
7.3A.6 Wet Riser and Dry Riser System
Wet Riser
Figure 7.27: Wet Riser
A wet riser is a system of pipework and valves that is permanently kept with water for the
purpose of distributing water within a building for firefighting purposes. This built-in system
of water distribution in a building means that there is no need for the fire-fighters to create
another distribution system for fighting fire in case of a fire outbreak in the building.
Dry Riser
Figure 7.28: Dry Riser
Unlike wet risers, dry risers are not permanently charged with water, meaning that when
they are not in use, the system has no water but, in case of a fire outbreak, the fire-fighters
charge the system with water using the fire service pumping appliances.

87
A dry riser or a wet riser fire main can be used in buildings whose height is less than 165 feet
high. However, for buildings whose height is more than 165 feet above the access level of
the rescue service vehicle, wet risers are used. This is because the pumping pressure
provided by the fire service appliance is not high enough to charge the riser and ensure an
adequate supply of water to the riser within a short period of time. The water that is
charged to wet riser normally comes from a pressurized supply with landing valves located
at specific locations on every floor.
In our case study building, the wet riser are placed nearby the lift lobby and also at the
emergency staircase in each for every level.
According to clause 248, uniformed building by- laws 1984: Marking on wet riser
1. Wet riser, dry riser, sprinkler and other fire installation pipes and fittings shall be painted
red
2. All cabinet and areas recessed in walls for location of fire installations and extinguisher
shall be clearly identified to the satisfaction of Fire Authority or otherwise clearly
identified.
According to clause 23, uniformed building by- laws 1984: Installation and testing of wet
rising system
1. Wet rising system shall be provided in every building which topmost floor is more than
30.5m above the fire appliances access level.
2. A hose connection shall be provided in each firefighting access lobby
3. Each wet riser outlet shall comprise standard 63.5mm coupling fitted with a hose of not
less than 38.1mm diameter equipped with an approved types of cradle and variable fog
nozzle.

88
7.3A.7 Fire Hydrant System
The fire hydrant system consists of a system of pipe work connected directly to the water
supply to provide water to each and every hydrant outlet. It is proposed to provide water
for the fire brigade to fight a fire. The water is discharged into the fire engine which it is
then pumped and squirted over fire. If the water supply is not reliable or inadequate,
hydrant pumps should be provided to pressurize the fire mains.
Figure 7.29: The fire hydrant is located outside the building
Figure 7.30: Location of fire hydrant around the building
Location of Fire Hydrant

89
For our case study, there is around 10 fire hydrants surround the building. They are placed
beside the road so that it is easy accessible for the fire brigade to insert the hose. There are
two types of fire hydrant: with 2 outlets and also with 3 outlets.
Table 7.2: The pressure for the 2 and 3 outlets of fire hydrants
The type of fire hydrant using in our case study is 3 outlets fire hydrant.
According to clause 225(2), uniformed building by- laws 1984: Detecting & Extinguishing Fire
Every building shall be served at least one fire hydrant located not more than 91.5 meters
from the nearest points of fire brigade access.
According to clause 225(3), uniformed building by- laws 1984: Detecting & Extinguishing Fire
Depending on the size and location of the building and the provision of access for fire
appliances, additional fire hydrant shall be provided as may be required by the fire authority.
1. Away from obstruction such as street furniture, phone booths, etc.
2. Not less than 2m from adjacent building and overhang.
3. Between 0.6m to 2.4m form fire appliances access away from risked vehicular.
4. Not more than 90m apart from each other.
Type of fire hydrant Pressure ( gallon per minute)
2 outlets 250~300GPM
3 outlets 300~ 600GPM

90
7.3A.8 Non-Water Based Fire Protection System
Portable Fire Extinguisher
Dry Powder Fire Extinguisher
Portable fire extinguishers generally cover first aid firefighting appliances which can be
carried by hand and from which the extinguishing agent can be expelled, usually under
pressure. In Subang Parade, they can be found at all floors, to be specific, they are being
placed besides every escape door and hose reel rooms as well as every corner of Subang
Parade that can be reached easily.
Figure 7.31: Class a fire extinguisher is used in Subang Parade
Placement of Fire Extinguishers
The fire extinguisher should be placed in conspicuous positions and ready for immediate use.
It is normally placed near to exits or on staircase landings. They should be positioned on
escape routes. In Subang Parade, most of the fire extinguishers are placed in the Hose Reel
Closets due to the aesthetic reasons.
Figure 7.32: The fire extinguishers are placed in the Hose Reel Closets
In Subang Parade, the type of the fire extinguisher used is dry powder extinguisher.
Portable Fire Extinguisher shall be provided in accordance with relevant codes of practice
and shall be sited in prominent position on exit routes to be visible from all direction and
similar extinguishers in a building shall be of the same method of operation.

91
Location of Fire Extinguishers
Basement Floor
Lower Ground Floor
Ground Floor
First Floor
Location of Fire Extinguisher

92
7.3A.9 Fixed Fire Extinguisher
Carbon Dioxide Fire Extinguisher
Carbon Dioxide fire extinguishers contain pure carbon dioxide which is a clean extinguish ant, leaving
no residue. It is suitable for class B flammable liquid fires such as petrol, oil, solvents and
recommended for use on live electrical equipment. Carbon Dioxide gas is probably the most
versatile and, for many operations, the ideal extinguisher agent. It extinguishes fire by taking away
the oxygen element of the fire triangle and also be removing the heat with a very cold discharge.
Figure 7.33: The carbon dioxide fire extinguishers found in transformer room
It does not conduct electricity and will not normally damage sensitive electronic equipment.
Such system is used in the transformer room in Subang Parade instead of water- based
sprinkler system.

93
Classification of Fire Extinguisher
Figure 7.34: The specifications of fire extinguishers
Source: ("Fire Extinguisher Types And Specifications - Liangyi", 2015)
- Class A: cloth, rubber, paper, and some types of plastics.
- Class B: petrol, oil, paint and also some waxes & plastics, but not cooking fats or
oils.
- Class C: natural gas, hydrogen, propane, butane.
- Class D: sodium, magnesium, and potassium.
- Class E: electrical appliances, wiring, or other electrically energized objects in the
vicinity of the fire, with a resultant electrical shock risk if a conductive agent is
used to control the fire.
- Class F: These are fires involving cooking fats and oils. The high temperature of
these types of fats and oil when on fire far exceeds that of other flammable
liquids which means that normal fire extinguishers should not be used.

94
7.3A.10 Fire Escape Route
FIRE ESCAPE PLAN
Fire escape plans are crucial in both a small scale and large scale building. It is important for
users of the building to know where they are headed to in case of an emergency. Fire
escape plans should provide info such as the escape routes and the emergency assembly
point.
Figure 7.35: Basement Fire Escape Plan
Figure 7.36: Lower Ground Floor Fire Escape Plan

95
Figure 7.37: Ground Floor Fire Escape Plan
Figure 7.38: First Floor Fire Escape Plan
According to Clause 166, Uniformed Building By-Laws 1984:
1. Except as permitted by-law 167, not less than 2 separate exits shall be provided from
each storey together with such additional exits as many as necessary.
2. The exits shall be so sited and exit shall be so arranged that the exits are within the limits
of travel distance as specifies in the seventh schedule to their by-law and are readily
accessible at all times.

96
7.3A.11 Emergency Assembly Points (EAPs)
Figure 7.39: Emergency Assembly Point
There are signboards around indicating the specific location of the assembly points are
properly set up outside of Subang Parade as well. Emergency Assembly Points are located in
areas which has spaces big enough to contain large crowds. The purpose is to gather the
crowd in areas that are out of harm's way.

97
7.3P Passive Fire Protection
Passive Fire Protection (PFP) is one of the integral components among the three
components of structural fire protection and fire safety for a building. The purpose of PFP is
to contain the fires or slow the spread of fire throughout the building, through the use of
fire-resistant walls, floors, doors, shutter and others. PFP systems are to comply with the
associated listing and approval use and compliance, in order for it to provide the
effectiveness expected by building codes.
In Subang Parade, PFP used includes compartmentalization of the overall building through
the use of fire-resistance rated walls, doors and shutters. This helps prevents or slows the
spread of fire from the room of fire origin to other building spaces. The fire escape stairs are
also pressurized to help prevent smoke. The building is also equipped with illuminated exit
signs and emergency light to help guide the way when an emergency occurs. Lastly,
signboards are placed outside of the building at several locations to specify the emergency
assembly spots of the building in the case of an emergency.

98
7.3P.1 Fire Escape Route
Pressurized Staircase
The pressurized staircase specifies the pressure differential systems, as it is designed to hold
back smoke from a physical barrier within a building. Physical barriers used are such as a
door or other similar restricted openings. The pressurisation system protects the escape
routes and fire-fighting shafts against the ingress of smoke. Smoke and fire ventilation is
maintained by the pressure within the fire escape routes which are higher than that in the
adjacent spaces. It does not provide protection for the spaces containing the fire; however,
it helps to contain the smoke and heat so that it doesn’t enter the escape routes.
Figure 7.40: Inlet grill by the escape stairs

99
The system comprises of these few compartments, the inlet fans, ductwork and outlet
Grilles, pressure relief dampers, automatic air release, and a control system should operate
automatically from the smoke detection system with a manual switch.
Figure 7.41: Fire Escape Stairs
For this building, fire escapes are located in many parts of the building. The measurement
for the stairs is:
Component Length/mm
Riser 160
Tread 270
The width of the stairs varies from stairs to stairs depending on the sizes of the escape route
itself.
1. Except as provided for in by-law 194, every upper floor shall have means of egress via at
least 2 separate staircases.
2. Staircases shall be of such width that in the event of any one staircase not being available
for escape purposes, the remaining staircases shall accommodate the highest occupancy
load of any one floor discharging into it calculated in accordance with provisions in the
seventh schedule by these by-laws.
4. The required width of a staircase shall me maintained throughout it’s length including at
landings.

100
Handrails
Handrails are clearly an important component in staircases. Without them, one might
stumble while going up or down the stairs because it is where a person holds for support.
With a large crowd using the escape stairs, furthermore clearing the building with fast speed,
there is prone to be pushing and handrails and help reduce further unwanted happening
from occurring.
Figure 7.42: Handrails at the fire escape stairs
For this building, railings used in the fire escape routes are 1000mm in height, with a
diameter of 40mm. It is made of non-flammable materials such as steel and are later
painted with iron. With the width of the staircases not exceeding 2255mm, it is not required
for it to have an intermediate handrail in between.
1. The required width of a staircase shall be the clear width between walls but handrails
may be permitted to encroach on the width to a maximum of 70mm.

101
7.3P.2 Fire-Rated Door
A fire door is a door with a fire-resistance rating, which are used as part of a passive fire
protection system. It reduces the spread of fire or smoke between different individual
sections and to enable safe egress from a building or structure or ship.
Figure 7.43: Fire-Rated door in Subang Parade
In Subang Parade, a variety of fire escape doors are present, from single leaf to double leaf
doors. Each of the doors are properly labeled.
Figure 7.44: Thickness of Fire Escape Door
The thickness of the fire rated door used in Subang Parade is 60mm. The materials used are
gypsum (an endothermic fill), steel, timber, vermiculite-boards, and lastly aluminium. The
rating for the doors are 1 hour, which means the door is capable withstand fire for the
amount of time stated.

102
Figure 7.45: Automatic door closing decide at all fire escape doors
Each door comes with automatic closing devices to prevent the door from being left open.
This helps maintain the pressure difference for a closed door condition. The pressure
difference is important to overcome buoyancy pressure generated by the hot smoke layer,
expansion of the gases in the compartment due to heating, stack pressure and wind
pressure.
Figure 7.46: Key to access fire escape stairs
Subang Parade has a large sum of fire escape stairs present all over the building. However,
some fire escape stairs however are kept locked and are only available during emergency
situations. The keys are places right beside the locked stairs protected by a layer of glass
which can be easily broken when needed.

103
2. Openings in compartment and separating walls to be protected by Fire Doors in
accordance with the FRP requirements of the relevant walls referred in the Ninth
Schedule.
3. Openings in protected structures to be protected by Fire Doors with FRP not less than ½
of the relevant walls referred in the Ninth Schedule
4. Openings in protected corridor or lobby to be protected by Fire Doors having FRP of ½
hour.
1. All fire doors shall be fitted with automatic door closers of the hydraulically spring
operated type in the case of a swing door and of wire rope weight type in the case of
sliding door.
2. Double doors with rabbeted meeting stiles shall be provided with coordinating device to
ensure the leafs close in the proper sequence.

104
7.3P.3 Exit Sign
An exit sign is a device in a public facility (such as a building, aircraft or boat) denoting the
location of the closest emergency exit in case of fire or other emergency. Exit signs are
designed to be absolutely unmistakable and understandable to anyone. In the past this
generally meant exit signs that show the word "EXIT" or the equivalent in the local language,
but increasingly exit signs around the world are in pictogram form, with or without text
supplement.
Figure 7.47: Exit sign found at every door
For the exit signs in Malaysia, the design code MS 619 & 983 are usually used. This may vary
in different countries. However, some authorities or specifying bodies may have specify
their own requirements for this.
The basic requirements of emergency lightings are:
- To indicate clearly and unambiguously with the use of exit signs, the escape routes
- To provide illumination along the escape routes by utilising its luminaries, spaced at
appropriate distances and gaps.
- To provide, whenever required, standby lighting.
- To provide, where required, security lighting as to prevent injury or threats to
persons or buildings.

105
Figure 7.48: Signs located at Fire escape stairs
As Subang Parade has lower ground floor and basement, these signs are drawn at fire
escape stairs. The fire escape stairs symbols are labeled with an arrow specifying a direction
to allow people to know which direction to head to get to reach ground floor emergency
assembly point and avoid confusion.
1. Storey exits and access to such exits shall be marked by readily visible signs and shall
not obscure by a decoration, furnishings or other equipment.
2. A sign reading “KELUAR” with an arrow indicating the direction shall be placed in
every location where the direction of the travel to reach the nearest exit is not
immediately apparent.
3. Every exit sign shall have the world “KELUAR” in plainly legible letters not less than
150 meters high with the principal strokes of the letters not less than 18mm wide.
The lettering shall be in red against black background
4. All exits shall be illuminated continuously during periods of occupancy.

106
7.3P.4 Fire Elevator
Fireman's elevators (Fire Lift) are basically just a regular passenger or service/freight
elevators. However, they have the fireman's service mode which can be activated by a “key
switch” or a toggle switch. The switches are usually located in a small panel, installed on the
upper door frame or wall on the main entrance level. It is isolated by a layer of clear glass.
Figure 7.49: Fire Lift in Subang Parade
When there is fire, all elevators will return in sequence directly to the designated floor,
which is the LG Floor. The fire elevator can be manually operated by the firemen through
the fire lift switch. The lift will be controlled by the controls from inside the car, and the
doors would only open by pressing the open button from the inside. Despite having such
facilities provided, it is advised to not use the lift when an emergency occur.
1. In a building where the top occupied floor is over 18.5 meters above the fire
appliance access level, fire lift shall be provided.
2. A penthouse occupying not more than 50% of the area of the floor immediately
below shall be exempted from this measurement.
3. The fire lifts shall be located within a separate protected shaft if it opens into a
separated lobby.
4. Fire lifts shall be provided at the rate of one lift in every group of lifts which
discharge into the same protected enclosure or smoke lobby containing the rising
main, provided that the fire lifts are located not more than 61 meters of travel
distance from the furthermost point of the floor.

107
7.3P.5 Fire Shutter
Compartmentation of Building
Compartmentalization in buildings is the fundamental basis and aim of passive fire
protection. The idea basically is to divide a structure into several compartments. The
purpose of doing this is to limit the spread of fire, smoke and flue gases.
Figure 7.50: Position of the Compartmentation roller shutter (RED)
From the Basement up until the first floor, Subang Parade is compartmentalized into 3 parts.
This slows down process of the fire spreading to the other parts of the building.
Kitchen
As kitchens are more prone to catching fire, each kitchen are partitioned with a fire shutter
for themselves to prevent smoke from entering the building and to slow down the
distribution of fire to the building.
Figure 7.51: Fire shutter at McDonalds, Subang Parade

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