Amico CSA Triplex SCD Modular Stack Mount - Manual (Page 7)

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6.3.5 “Future Expansion” Compensation
The notion of adding capacity now for any future requirements is wise, but extreme cautions are also advised. It is
common to see very badly oversized air plants which were initially sized to accommodate an expansion that never
occurred or that was scaled back and was not compulsory after all. In addition to the waste of investment, it
generates problems associated with the operation of the system. The best method in preparing for an anticipated
expansion is to opt for a plant which is adequate for the present need in a duplex or triplex system but can also be
upsized for future need by simply adding additional compressors as required. When specifying for the unit, require
it be purchased in preparation for additional compressor(s) yet not populated with those compressors. A represen-
tative specification would read:
“provide duplex medical air plant with triplex controls and air treatment subsystem
ready for a future third compressor” . Such a system provides an effective method of expanding the system capacity;
is more capital-efficient, and yields better operating characteristics and reliability when it comes to air quality control.
Nevertheless, it is fundamentally important that the intake, electrical service, and system piping are correctly sized
for the entire expected capacity, so these larger values should be used in all calculations.
6.3.6 Plant Selection
1. Select a preferred technology (See Sec 6.3.9). More specific assistance in selecting a technology may be
obtained by contacting your local Amico Source representative.
2. Choose a Kilowatt (Horsepower) from the preferred technology with the capacity closest to (but typically
greater than) the Peak Calculated Demand (PCD).
3. Note that for some technologies, there is more than one plant architecture. Should one or more layout be
available for selection, choose the one best suited to the site condition. If in doubt as to which arrangement
is most suitable for a particular situation, contact your Local Amico Source representative for assistance.
4. Reference the Technology Comparison Chart for the particular system selected. This sheet entails all the
essential information regarding the system and should be utilized as a quick reference in all of the following
steps.
6.3.7 General Layout
1. Place the plant in scale on the plan drawings in the designated location. Ensure the plant has sufficient
space on all sides for maintenance access and proper ventilation. Amico Source recommends 24” (2ft)
clearance all around and 36” (3ft) in front of the control cabinet, but it is sometimes possible to reduce this
clearance with exact knowledge of maintenance access requirements. Consult with your Local
Amico Source representative if circumstances allow for less space.
2. Place the equipment in elevation views as appropriate.
3. On the plan, finalize the routing for the intake.
4. Size the intake piping. The sizing process is iterative:
a. Start with the total actual length of piping, and make an estimate for the line size.
b. By using your estimated size, add equivalent lengths for the fittings employed.
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