Ideal Conditions: Recent Episodes
Polygon
Welcome to Ideal Conditions, a Polygon Podcast. From controlling temperature and humidity in buildings and food plants to restoring critical documents like x-rays and rare books, we are here to explore the challenges and solutions for interior climate management and remediation.
In the evolving landscape of university infrastructure, the push towards integrating smart climate control technologies is reshaping renovation projects. This innovative approach not only preserves the historical essence of educational buildings but also aligns them with contemporary standards of efficiency and sustainability. A standout example of this trend is the renovation of Baylor University's Ruth Collins Hall.
Adam Hammonds, the Superintendent at JE Dunn Construction, alongside his team, embarked on a collaborative journey with Polygon to introduce a cutting-edge climate control solution. This partnership was pivotal in propelling the Baylor University renovation project towards unprecedented levels of efficiency and cost-effectiveness. The initiative is a testament to the transformative power of smart climate control technologies in modernizing educational facilities while safeguarding their historical significance.
Hammonds lauded the smart sensor technology provided by Polygon for its flexibility and the substantial economic benefits it delivered.
"The smart sensor technology so far has been incredible in the fact that you can set your own parameters and monitor/manipulate from a computer. This sensor, even only being on for about a week, will save the project thousands of gallons of diesel which is money saved as well," Hammonds remarked.
Delving deeper into the technological advancements, Hammonds highlighted the efficiency of the smart controller. Its ability to make judicious decisions based on real-time data stood out as a hallmark of cost-effectiveness.
"The smart controller also is impressive in the fact that it has the capability to dictate if one or both of the units need to be running based on the parameters set on your dashboard, which also makes it even more cost-effective," he stated.
Reflecting on the overall experience with Polygon, Hammonds shared his appreciation for the partnership and the innovative solutions that were brought to the table.
"On behalf of the Collins Hall Renovation team, Polygon has been great to work with. Everything from the friendly service to the innovative equipment you have brought out here has been a very pleasant and pain-free experience," Hammond said.
In construction sites, Crumpton explains that during the building process, there is a risk of moisture penetration from various sources, such as rain or atmospheric conditions, due to incomplete structures. This moisture can impact materials like wood, casing work, sheet rock, and gypsum-based products. To mitigate potential long-term issues and premature failure of components, it is crucial to control humidity. Using equipment to maintain the proper relative humidity ensures adherence to project timelines and preserves the integrity of construction materials.
Similarly, in mission critical environments like data centers or industrial applications, maintaining the correct humidity levels is essential. Crumpton highlights the need for precision control through portable or permanently fixed equipment to ensure the ideal environment for tasks such as cabling and IT equipment installation. Excessive moisture in these settings can lead to operational challenges and potential equipment failures, underscoring the significance of humidity management for the long-term success of both construction projects and mission critical facilities.
Jon Pattrin, Operations Manager at ExactAire, sheds light on Polygon’s unique approach to data collection and analysis. Instead of just handing over data, they analyze it with their clients, offering tailored engineered solutions for their specific needs, be it in plant buildings or offices. These solutions could range from introducing smart controllers for efficient equipment management to saving on fuel and electricity costs. Such a collaborative approach not only benefits current clients but also paves the way for enhanced solutions for future customers.
Explore Polygon's impressive warehouse dehumidification, temperature control, and environmental monitoring solution in this walkthrough video. Marvel at the meticulous cable management, perfectly aligned components, and expertly organized controllers. Join us in acknowledging the dedication of our project manager and team, who ensure every detail is executed flawlessly. Experience the commitment to excellence that defines Polygon's comprehensive climate control solutions.
In this informative video, Guillermo Martinez, Applications Engineer at Polygon US, addresses a common question about system design and power requirements for desiccant dehumidifiers. He explains the challenges in estimating power needs before designing the system and highlights the flexibility to adjust power once the system is in place. Martinez overviews the R Series, specifically the tri-fuel desiccant dehumidifiers powered by propane, natural gas, or electricity.
Martinez emphasizes the importance of three-phase 460-volt power for most systems and illustrates how to determine the amps required based on the unit's specifications. He also showcases strategies to optimize energy usage, including using gas burners for reactivation cycles. Watch the video to learn more about maximizing energy efficiency in desiccant dehumidifiers.
Polygon's Rob Sullivan, aka Rob on the Job, gives a "day in the life" tour of a construction site in Allison, Maryland. As a part of his workday, Rob focuses on maintaining temperature and humidity control while installing finished material in a six-story building. Control achieved using four H.C.U.s (Hybrid Desiccate and Refrigerate Units) is particularly effective given the day's high relative humidity of about 90% and temperature of around 67 degrees. Rob checks the gear, provides a glimpse into installing ACU 6000 CFED units, and discusses on-site safety measures. He concludes his video by thanking viewers for joining him and promising future on-the-job adventures.
Data Centers and mission-critical construction projects often face challenges related to real-time data availability and proactive measures in terms of indoor air quality (IAQ.) Polygon’s ExactAire™ IAQ system overcomes these challenges. The system prevents leaks, condensation on electrical equipment, and dust or particulate matter accumulation on materials or gear, thereby avoiding significant losses and costs for project stakeholders. Additionally, the system contributes to the health and well-being of site workers by reducing the potential impact on their respiratory systems. Furthermore, the Polygon smart control feature allows efficient equipment run times, supporting sustainability efforts by reducing on-site carbon emissions. By implementing Polygon’s solutions, clients can enhance project outcomes while prioritizing environmental responsibility.
At Polygon, our role often extends beyond simply providing equipment like dehumidifiers or heaters. We take on a consultative approach, collaborating closely with clients to address their specific challenges. A prime example is a recent conversation we had with a client who suffered $42 million in water losses across their projects annually. They sought our guidance on detecting water flow and leaks within their structures. Through our advanced technology solutions, we were able to apply the right tools and provide them with a comprehensive view of data, empowering them with actionable insights to effectively control and mitigate risks associated with water damage.
Ensuring healthy construction sites and buildings requires maintaining good indoor air quality through effective monitoring and control. Polygon's Exact Aire solution utilizes long-range, low-power IoT communications to collect, transmit, and visualize data from sensors, including indoor air quality, leak detection, and toxic gas sensors. By leveraging IoT technology to monitor factors like particulate matter, temperature, and humidity levels, building managers gain essential insights to promptly address any issues that may arise, ensuring a healthy environment for employees and occupants.
Indoor air quality poses significant risks to occupant health, the environment, and business performance. With the built environment accounting for almost half of global CO2 emissions, addressing this issue is crucial. Polygon offers engineered solutions to address indoor air quality concerns and promote sustainability. By monitoring and controlling air quality during construction, implementing strategies like envelope protection and proper equipment selection, Polygon helps create healthier and more efficient buildings. With a consultative approach and a focus on people, technology, and knowledge, Polygon stands as a reliable partner in combating the challenges associated with indoor air quality and promoting sustainable building practices.
Polygon ExactAire is a real-time monitoring and control system for indoor environments. Using various indicators like temperature, humidity, and gas levels, it optimizes conditions for diverse sectors including construction, healthcare, and data centers. With instant alerts and reliable reporting, ExactAire is where real-time data meets smart climate control, promoting controlled conditions in a connected environment. For more information, visit www.polygongroup.us/exactaire.
Controlling moisture on a construction job site is essential in maintaining building material quality. Moisture mitigation for Mass Timber buildings is necessary to keep these elements warm and dry throughout the lifecycle from construction to occupancy.
Mass Timber is a growing trend in the construction industry as an alternative to concrete and steel. The durability, seismic performance, and fire resistance of these cross-laminated timbers (CLT) offer quality with the potential to reduce carbon emissions from construction.
Because more projects are considering Mass Timber, it’s essential to recognize the need for moisture mitigation to achieve optimal results. What risks are associated with excess moisture on Mass Timber, and what are the best mitigation strategies to ensure maximum results?
On Ideal Conditions, a Polygon Podcast, Deanna Talbot, Polygon’s Director of Marketing, checked in with Ryan Creagan, Director of Client Development for Polygon, to talk about the rise in Mass Timber projects, why they’re gaining in popularity, and what are some of the best methods to use for moisture mitigation.
Talbot and Creagan’s conversation includes:
•How moisture management for Mass Timber is different from other materials
•Tips and moisture control advice for people working on Mass Timber projects
•Moisture and humidity monitoring options
“After the building’s been enclosed, and in some cases during transport before the building’s enclosed, the general contractors, the owners, they want monitoring of that Mass Timber,” Creagan said. “Because there’s a lot of risk involved with that material.”
Ryan Creagan is passionate about building long-lasting customer relationships, understanding their goals, and engineering solutions that add value while limiting carbon footprint. He has over ten years’ experience working with Polygon in business and client development.
As the most widely used green building rating system, the LEED certification process has recently published updated credit standards that help buildings save money and improve efficiency. However, the LEED 4.1 process isn’t just about the end process, but how climate control strategies throughout the construction period can help guarantee the protection of materials in order to earn LEED-certification. So, why does maintaining indoor climate conditions matter?
In this episode of Ideal Conditions, a Polygon podcast series, host and Marketing Director for Polygon, Deanna Talbot, speaks with Polygon’s Director of Engineering and Technology, David Simkins, about the confluence of LEED 4.1 and climate control strategies.
The two discuss:
- What LEED standards are connected to IAQ and climate control
- How Polygon’s sensors provide early detection to allow for corrective action and the enhancement of indoor air quality
- Which climate control strategies could help clients earn credits for LEED certification
Simkins explained, “The other thing though, that we really want to get in place is basically a protection plan around the materials, and this is, in essence, moisture management, but we want to make sure that when the materials are coming into that building, we have the right climate for them so that we’re maintaining those warranties…”
David Simkins has over 30 years of experience in Engineering, Management, and Leadership. Simkins worked as an Engineer for six years before moving to Management, for a variety of companies, including Munters Corporation. He was a Member of the Board of Directors for Caption Data Limited and has been with Polygon for over 12 years. He is a graduate of Northeastern University with a B.S. in Mechanical Engineering and holds two MBAs in Leadership and Business Administration, respectively, from Boston University.
For a downloadable guide to these strategies, visit https://www.polygongroup.com/en-US/blog/5-interior-climate-control-strategies-for-achieving-leed-4.1-credits/
Ideal Conditions pointed its compass east for this episode. When the needle stopped spinning, it landed on two Polygon stalwarts, Larry Waltemire, Business Unit Manager, and Rich Shoemaker, Business Development Manager, helming out of the East Region. Waltemire and Shoemaker have over forty-six years of experience working at Polygon, and there aren’t too many situations they haven’t come across in all that time.
“From disasters to chicken plant needs, to everything imaginable, we’ve seen it all,” Waltemire said. “But every now and then, you get a curveball thrown at you, and you get a new twist on some of the things we’ve done in the past, and we’re able to take from that experience and come up with solutions,” Shoemaker added.
Coming up with those new solutions brought to mind a recent project of a customer with a seven million cubic foot warehouse full of dry products with no humidity control in the building. “It was our job to come up with a solution for that humidity problem,” Waltemire said. “Their main concern was that the product, which was coming in from all over the world, might have an insect larvae hatching that could be in the packing material. It was our job to solve that problem.
Keeping humidity consistently down to less than 50% in a seven million cubic foot building is no small feat. Polygon had to size the solution for a space not yet filled with the product. “Our solution was two, fifteen thousand CFM desiccant dehumidifiers, and those units have three supplies and three returns,” Shoemaker said. “So, we could take air through the unit and put it back into the space. We took six supply ducts, three from each unit, and we spidered those out into the space. We took one duct and ran it over to the loading dock doors because that was the only source of bad air infiltration.”
John O’Haver, business development specialist, and Kevin Lockard, national operations manager, both with Polygon US, joined Tyler Kern on Ideal Connections to discuss flat roof drying — a potential alternative to re-roofing a building.
Moisture saturation on a roof can be detrimental. “The degradation of the materials within that roof can really have a negative effect on the building,” said Lockard. “And then over the long term, you can start to have structural integrity issues.”
When moisture invades an enclosed area, mold and microbial growth will be a pervasive issue until treated properly. These issues can also impact the ability for heating and cooling systems to work within the house, ultimately increasing the costs for energy bills, too.
Typically, the solution to these types of problems is re-roofing, which can be extremely expensive, even up to $25-$27 per square foot. However, Polygon US proposes a different solution, which is simply drying the roof.
“If we can restore these roofs rather than rip them up, there’s going to be cost savings and several other positive impacts,” said Lockard. O’Haver also pointed out that the amount of work done on the roof can be a huge inconvenience for the people living, working or visiting underneath.
Another benefit of flat roof drying is risk association. There are quite a few potential problems associated with tearing up a roof that can hurt the building its housing. The current supply chain crisis has also made material scarcer, stalling many commercial roofing projects. Instead of re-roofing, companies can choose to dry their roofs.
“When it comes to flat roof drying, anyone listening to this or tuning into this should probably think of flat roof drying like you would a simple medical procedure instead of open
There is no better scenario to accelerate awareness for Indoor Air Quality, than a pandemic marked by the uncontrollable spread of an airborne pathogen. Parties ranging from policymakers to big box retail stores to residential complexes are faced with the growing concern of IAQ, specifically on how to maneuver their focus on this pressing issue. It is difficult to know, especially in such unchartered territories and unprecedented times, what investments make sense, what needs are true “needs”, and how this should inform larger strategies for safe facilities management.
To offer insights on this hot topic, host Daniel Litwin, the voice of B2B, is joined by Garret Freeman, National Sales Manager at Polygon on this episode of Ideal Conditions, a Polygon Podcast.
The two discuss the newfound focus on Indoor Air Quality in wake of the pandemic, starting with both the short and long-term effects of spending too much time inside on an individual's health and productivity. They then shift into how this directly intersects with the workloads and strategies of facilities managers.
They also talk about the relationship between IoT and IAQ and how IoT technology be properly utilized to improve air quality. Freeman dives into how Polygon is using IoT, including technology like ExactAire that monitors environmental conditions inside buildings, to improve IAQ.
Tune in for an insightful conversation!
As the demand for processed foods continues to grow, manufacturers feel the strain, and so does their equipment. As a result, ancillary equipment like HVACs and ventilation systems must keep up, too. However, many food processors run into issues here regarding climate control and air quality. Talking about how facilities can mitigate these risks, Polygon’s Nick Kline, director of client development, and Mart Wicker, business development specialist, joined Ideal Conditions host Tyler Kern.
“Manufacturers are under pressure, and that means adding equipment and infrastructure,” Kline said.
Wicker, who spent over a decade working in food processing facilities, concurred: “They need the plant to run at optimal performance, which means reengineer facilities for greater output. Over time, HVAC systems will struggle to keep up, and these smaller impacts, like increased temperatures and condensation, can cause problems.”
Wicker noted that such issues could extend sanitation time, delay starts, cause unsafe working conditions and lead to shutdowns due to unsanitary conditions.
Kline advised that Polygon works with its partners to evaluate the problems. “We’re a second set of eyes, making sure the equipment is working as it should without impacting the plant envelope.”
One of the best ways for plants to stay proactive and have greater input is leveraging the power of data from sensors to deliver insights.
Wicker shared a story to demonstrate how data drives optimization: “A customer had high gas levels, causing line stoppages. We installed a monitor to detect these, and they receive notifications when it goes outside their limits. They can then turn on exhaust fans to mitigate the high levels, keeping employees safe and avoiding downtime.”
Sustainable architecture and building practices are not new trends, but construction methods of the past thirty years continue to prioritize sustainability in materials, processes, equipment and technology. Frank Dobosz, president at Polygon US, spoke with Daniel J. Litwin about the market forces pushing the industry to embrace sustainability as a business model and set new standards.
Dobosz’s tenure with Polygon began more than fifteen years ago. One of the values he felt most aligned with was Polygon’s commitment to becoming a greener and more environmentally friendly business and helping drive the industry toward that common goal.
“In the built environment, you have a number of aspects of environmental impact,” Dobosz said. “You look at the past, and everybody has to make choices as to how to be successful. Sometimes the environment has been the third or last thought.”
He continued, “We must be profitable; we have to build strong buildings; the infrastructure must be lasting; these are all important steps. And it was a conversation early on that everyone was interested in how these steps were impacting the environment, but it’s now become common objectives.”
The ongoing challenge for the building industry is maintaining efficient and profitable practices sustainably for the benefit of people. Today’s methodologies and technology improvements make it easier for builders to deliver on all three.
“We have to have profitable projects; we have to take care of our people and put them in healthy environments,” Dobosz said. “And we have to take care of the planet. There are a ton of different technologies that are coming up.”
Dobosz further explained that the responsibility doesn’t lie in solely the building industry. Giving the example of zero carbon and carbon capture, he explained the reduction in the carbon that processes like these produce in the environment and how it can become a net-zero effect.
As our industry professionals know, the larger construction industry is evolving in many ways. New technologies, materials disruption, supply chain breakdowns, and reinvestments into infrastructure are all changing how the design, build, and maintenance process succeed.
On this episode of Ideal Conditions, a Polygon US podcast, Voice of B2B Daniel Litwin, talked with Tina York, Director of Client Development for the Southern Region, and Ryan Creagan, Director of Client Development for the Western Region. They break down what those evolutions and main risks are from start to finish and how this differs between the professional roles that bring a building to life. We'll connect the dots to some solutions that are sure to give you a more holistic look at risk mitigation.
According to an article in EY, there are a lot of these evolutions in the industry. "Construction companies will need to evolve, most notably by abandoning the linear and singularly focused business models they're used to in favor of more data-driven and circular models," the article stated. "Companies will especially want to understand and implement key technologies that help them keep pace with change, and accelerate the adoption of new processes, as well as customer and investor experiences."
The construction industry is dynamic and changes from day to day, according to Creagan, especially while managing on a project level. But, as you move up the food chain to the executive level, it is a bit broader with multi-project levels and in multiple industries.
"You've got to pivot very quickly in order to move in a positive direction from the industry trends," Creagan said
When the Cathedral Notre Dame in Paris experienced a near-catastrophic fire in April of 2019, it served as a stark reminder that important cultural documents and artifacts, such as original pieces of literature and priceless works of art, could be lost permanently in an instant. Even data preserved on hard drives at a university are potential casualties from an event such as a flood or fire in the server room. How likely is it that these crucial documents are at risk? And what should institutions do to build their facilities’ resiliency from both a proactive and reactive standpoint?
These are the questions Ideal Conditions host Daniel J. Litwin asked Polygon’s Matt DeCirce, National Product Manager, and Nick Kline, Director of Client Development. They shared their perspectives on document recovery and the factors making this challenge a priority for universities and libraries.
“Universities have a treasure trove of collections, both physical and in the digital world,” DeCirce said, “and a lot of these collections are unique and priceless. They go above and beyond to protect these items. The best way to protect items in the event of a disaster is to have a plan in place. That’s where the two sides of protection come into place.” DeCirce noted Polygon works with universities to develop a preparedness and emergency plan catered to their specific collections and needs.
“The other side of that from a planning and preparedness standpoint is monitoring,” Kline said. “If you can see that there’s been moisture ingress, or if the relative humidity in the space is too high, these are all things we can monitor. If you see this trending up through some air monitoring and control system or ground moisture sensing system, you can do something before it becomes problematic.”
To sign up for Polygon’s Code Blue service, request an application here: https://bit.ly/3BoMAmJ