A building’s technological systems form an important foundation for the energy-efficient operation of real estate. Planning and execution must be correspondingly accurate and professionally implemented, particularly for heating, ventilation, and air-conditioning systems. In this context, WAGO offers not only suitable products and solutions for automation technology, but also supports the systems engineering process with application instructions and macros.
In addition to existing libraries and system macros for the CODESYS development environment, WAGO has now also developed templates and macros for TRIC planning software. TRIC is a powerful tool for planners and manufacturers of HVAC systems, which corresponds to the VOB [Construction Tendering and contract Regulations], VDI [Association of German Engineers], and DIN EN ISO guidelines, thus enabling unambiguous exchange of information for tendering, contracting, and billing. The new macros are available for download free of charge at www.wago.com, and can be integrated into Mervisoft’s I&C software with just a few mouse clicks.
Using macros like this provides numerous advantages for the planning process. The functionality is a decisive asset: instead of designing each individual HVAC system from scratch, there are pre-fabricated solutions to draw from, this provides significant improvements to the design process, because all of the individual components have already been tested for compatibility. This results in the generation of complete system plans such as bid specifications and part lists, as well as cable and data point lists that serve many purposes, including preparing quotations. TRIC also enables the engineered system to be output as a performance index and GAEB texts to be saved for quotes.
Extensive control and visualization programs must be created, particularly when executing planned HVAC systems. It is exactly for these cases that WAGO provides extensive libraries with ready-made macros, which are available, free of charge, on our homepage. A significant advantage in this case is that common building system applications are completely pre-programmed, so that the user only has to configure them — that is, assign data points and parameters — and then commission the system. In addition to simple CODESYS function blocks, (e.g., heating circuit control and hot water conditioning), even complex applications, such as cascade control using cross-flow heat exchangers and frequency regulated fans, are available. The library also contains additional function blocks, which allow easy expansion of the available system macros.
The success of energy-efficient building automation hinges on maximizing the use of modern, versatile automation systems that can oversee the greatest number of different building technologies from lighting to security. And the key to this approach is recognizing that HVAC systems play a central role relative to a building’s total energy consumption, providing the greatest potential for enhancing efficiency. Using WAGO’s components and systems for building automation and the appropriate, ready-made macros for planning and execution, users can implement an energy-efficient building automation system without excessive programming costs.
Text: Karl-Heinz Sanders, WAGO
Photo: © AP / Fotolia.com