Understanding How an AHU Works
The way an air handling unit works is very simple: the unit draws in ambient air, treats it, and then recirculates it into the space. However, traditional systems (particularly dual-flow systems) can lead to biological contamination.
To address this issue, PhotoClean has developed independent and modular decontamination modules, as well as high-efficiency air handling units with built-in air purifiers.
How does an air handling unit work?
An air handling unit (AHU) draws air from the premises, passes it through various filters and cooling or heating coils, and then redistributes it through a distribution network (ducts, grilles, etc.).
Dual-flow AHUs incorporate an additional function: they recover thermal energy from the exhaust air before discharging it. This air exchange, which is theoretically beneficial, can be achieved in three ways:
- through complete recirculation of indoor air
- by recirculating a portion of the indoor air, supplemented by outdoor air
- by using only fresh air
The drawback of these systems stems from the need to bring the outside air up to temperature before introducing it into the building. This is achieved using thermal energy recovered by the AHU coils. The problem lies in the potential transmission of viruses—particularly the COVID virus—through the heat exchangers, which then disperse the microorganisms into the recirculated air released into the building.
Air Treatment Solutions Offered by PhotoClean
To address the issue mentioned above and combine air renewal with air decontamination, PhotoClean has developed a reliable and high-performance system. What sets our products apart is an innovative and exclusive technology: photolysis.
This process utilizes the germicidal properties of UV-C light, combined with a medium—unique in the world—that acts as a catalyst and optimizes the rays’ effectiveness. Unlike conventional filters found in air handling units, which merely trap pollutants, our modules completely destroy all undesirable microorganisms (whether of biological or chemical origin). Our systems guarantee decontamination rates of 95 to 97 percent, with reduced energy consumption.
PhotoClean products are available in several versions to meet the needs of professionals across all sectors (industrial, food industry, pharmaceutical, service, etc.):
- Two-in-one solutions consisting of an air handling unit (AHU) with an integrated air decontamination module: these energy-efficient systems allow you to extract stale air and reintroduce clean air without requiring bulky equipment
- Universal air purifiers: Fully compatible with existing air handling units and treatment systems, these units eliminate the need for costly modifications to your existing system
Much more than just an air-treatment unit…
Our core business is not limited to designing high-performance, innovative air handling units. We aim to provide all trades with turnkey solutions for their air decontamination needs.
That is why, before making any proposal, we conduct a comprehensive audit of your facilities. This audit takes into account all site-specific parameters: layout, volume of air to be treated, type of pollutants, presence of an air handling unit (AHU), etc. Following this, our design office in Lyon will provide you with a customized solution, including a layout plan and recommendations for the appropriate equipment.
Contact PhotoClean to learn more!