SSOE was able to reorient the replacement so the conduit could be reused, resulting in a savings of $50,000. By reusing storage and surge tanks and suggesting an alternate insulation for piping, our team was able to save another $60,000. To date, total cost savings equal $110,000. The refrigeration system replacements are expected to produce an annual cost savings of $780,000.

The U.S. Army Corps of Engineers enlisted SSOE to replace outdated equipment that would decrease the environmental impact and reduce energy costs at the Aeropropulsion Systems Test Facility, part of the Arnold Engineering Development Center (AEDC). The AEDC is the world’s largest ground flight simulation complex, testing nearly all the Department of Defense and NASA systems since the 1950s. Work on this project showcases SSOE’s extensive capabilities to support state-of-the-art technology projects and leverages our experience in large-scale facilities and high-tech laboratory environments.

Known as the Turbine Engine Dry Air Capability (TEDAC) program, the goals of the project are to replace the existing 30-year-old refrigeration system, reduce the facility’s dependency on Trichloroethylene (TCE) and R-12 refrigerant, improving reliability and maintainability. These hazardous substances will be replaced by more environmentally friendly fluids.

Utilizing design-build project delivery, SSOE provided full engineering analysis and design for the demolition and replacement of two existing refrigerant systems. These systems supply 3,000 to 6,000 tons of brine to a cooler, measuring 150 feet in length and 42 feet in diameter, that dries and cools process air used for turbine altitude testing. Because simulating altitude conditions for testing these engines requires a climate controlled environment, the HVAC/R systems are a critical component of this facility.