IMEG provided mechanical, electrical, and plumbing engineering design for a new Life Science building at Irvine Valley College. The project consisted of a new two-story building for the life and environmental sciences program. The building included pre-manufactured lecture halls, various scientific labs of differing disciplines, lab support, offices, a greenhouse, and meeting spaces. Together, the project supports the college’s greater mission to provide new, state-of-the-art science and technology facilities for the student body.

IMEG worked directly with the owner to provide innovative sustainability features, engineering designs, and construction administration support during the project’s conception and construction. IMEG designed an evaporated condenser for the 100 percent outside air unit that significantly improved its efficiency while decreasing energy costs. IMEG provided construction administration support services during the construction of the project, visiting the site periodically to answer requests for information and reviewing shop drawings.

A single package evaporative condenser unit with variable speed-driven fans was designed to supply only the amount of air needed at any moment to meet the temperature, exhaust air requirements, and heat load. A digital building control system will monitor and initiate the necessary commands to control all mechanical components in the building. Low-flow water closets and urinals were designed to reduce 30% below California Plumbing Code water usage. Highly energy-efficient lighting was designed to achieve further savings in energy consumption. The building is LEED Gold certified. Energy Pro program was used to calculate the total building energy consumption. The overall energy saving of 30% above required ASHRAE 90.1 was achieved.