Client Situation

A large university located in the South wanted to improve the effectiveness of air filters used on campus. Due to the humid environment, the pleated filters currently used would occasionally collapse, providing limited filtration capabilities. 

The Challenge

To implement an improved filtration system that would reduce product and maintenance cost, while improving air quality to the campus environment. 

SDI Solution

SDI personnel coordinated a survey of the campus air handlers. They worked with the University’s maintenance personnel, as well as SDI’s national supplier, to document the specific requirements of each air handler unit.  Due to the scope of the project, the survey took over 80 hours to complete. 

The filtration solution determined by the team was to provide a frame and pad, or a larger poly-media filter. With one filter unit replacing several pleated filters, the labor required for filter replacement could be reduced.  The larger filtration media was also better suited to the humid environment and would improve the filtration capabilities.

Results

The teamwork among the University, SDI’s national supplier, and SDI’s PROS team resulted in improvement in air filtration, while providing the University with cost reductions.  Annual consumption of 1-inch filters was reduced by nearly 40%, while 2-inch filter usage was reduced by 60%.  Labor savings of nearly $39,000 were realized as a result of increased efficiencies in installation, maintenance, and longer product life.  Total annual savings to the University with the new filter system was more than $70,000.