TABLE OF CONTENTS As underfloor air distribution (UFAD) systems often represent a new approach for many contractors, it is important that members of the design and construction team recognize the differences from the conventional methods to which they are accustomed. In most projects, the implications of the raised floor system and the creation of an underfloor air supply plenum will represent the most significant change. This section presents a number of planning, coordination, and installation issues that should be considered from the beginning of the design phase, through construction, and into occupancy, including the commissioning process.
The raised access floor platform, which represents a good example of integrated building design, serves multiple functions. It helps create the air supply plenum, conceals and protects cabling and other services, and provides a stable and level walking surface. The physical dimensions of the raised floor system should be considered early in the design process. These include:
The existence of a 2 ft 2 ft (0.6 m 0.6 m) grid of pedestals (floor panel supports) across all areas of the underfloor plenum (grid dimensions may differ in raised floor installations outside the U.S.).
The finished floor height of the raised floor panels above the concrete slab (typically 12 18 in. [0.3 0.45 m] from top of slab to top of floor panel).
All members of the design team must understand the relationship between these dimensions of the underfloor plenum, the size of all building components that will be placed within the plenum, the placement...
