Higher Education & K-12

University of Albany

The Renovation of Building 30 for Science project at the University at Albany represents a significant transformation effort that aims to repurpose the existing Earth Science and Mathematics building into a state-of-the-art teaching center dedicated to the Chemistry Department. This comprehensive renovation involves a complete gutting of the structure, paving the way for the creation of new, modern facilities to support various academic and administrative functions.

The scope of the project encompasses the development of new teaching laboratories for General and Organic Chemistry, as well as the inclusion of prep rooms to facilitate laboratory activities. In addition to these specialized spaces, the project includes provisions for high-power computer labs, general-purpose classrooms, offices, office cubicles, administrative support areas, breakout and collaboration spaces, and various facilities to meet the building’s support needs.

The project’s total gross square footage (GSF) amounts to approximately 93,000 GSF, with a net square footage (NSF) of approximately 40,000 NSF. DM Engineers, in collaboration with other consulting firms, is at the forefront of designing the MEP (Mechanical, Electrical, and Plumbing) disciplines for this complex undertaking. This project represents a significant investment in the university’s infrastructure, aiming to provide cutting-edge facilities that will support research, teaching, and collaboration within the Chemistry Department and the broader academic community.

NYC School Construction Authority

DM Engineers played a pivotal role in a comprehensive building renovation and fit-out project, providing MEP (Mechanical, Electrical, and Plumbing) design services. The project encompassed the transformation of an 18,000 square-foot space, which was slated to house eight classrooms, recreational areas, support spaces, and an all-electric MEP system.

In this ambitious undertaking, DM Engineers addressed various critical components of the MEP systems. The electrical service was upgraded to ensure the facility had a reliable and robust power supply, capable of supporting its diverse needs. Advanced lighting and controls were meticulously designed to create an efficient, well-lit environment while incorporating cutting-edge lighting controls to optimize energy usage.

Safety and security were paramount considerations in the project. DM Engineers implemented a state-of-the-art fire alarm system, low voltage systems for communication and security, sound intercommunication, and a teacher-activated security system. A synchronized clock system was installed to maintain a consistent schedule, and an intrusion alarm system further enhanced security. Auxiliary alarm systems were also incorporated as needed, and a comprehensive grounding system was put in place to ensure electrical safety.

In addition to the electrical systems, DM Engineers tackled the plumbing and fire protection systems to provide efficient and reliable services. The mechanical HVAC system was carefully designed, featuring a Dedicated Outside Air Unit (DOAS), exhaust fans, hot gas reheat coils, DX cooling coils, and an energy recovery wheel. The HVAC solution included local heat pump indoor dedicated units and exhaust systems.

Through their meticulous MEP design and implementation, DM Engineers successfully transformed the facility into a modern, functional, and energy-efficient space. This project exemplifies their expertise in delivering innovative MEP solutions tailored to the unique requirements of educational environments.

New York University

DM Engineers, in partnership with BR+A, undertook a critical task for NYU, involving visual MEP (Mechanical, Electrical, and Plumbing) inspections of a packaged plant constructed at Epsilon Industries Inc. in Canada. This packaged MEP plant was destined to serve NYU’s multipurpose facility located at 181 Mercer Street.

The scope of work entailed a meticulous examination of the packaged MEP Plant to assess its compliance with mechanical and plumbing codes applicable to New York City. This assessment was conducted in alignment with NYC building codes, ensuring that the plant met all the necessary regulatory requirements.

Subsequently, DM Engineers prepared a comprehensive technical report that documented the findings of the visual inspections. This report not only highlighted any deficiencies or areas where the plant did not meet NYC code parameters but also provided valuable guidance for Epsilon Industries, the manufacturer, on how to rectify these issues and bring the system into compliance with NYC building codes.

By performing these inspections and providing expert guidance, DM Engineers contributed to the successful implementation of the MEP plant, ensuring that it would effectively serve NYU’s multipurpose facility while adhering to the stringent regulatory standards of New York City.

KIPP Academy Elementary School /span>

DM Engineers PLLC was engaged by KIPP Academy Elementary School to provide construction documents for a critical project involving the replacement of all air handling units (AHU) serving this 35,000 square-foot educational facility.

The scope of mechanical design services included a meticulous verification of ventilation requirements, conducting heating and cooling load calculations, and carefully selecting the necessary heating elements for the AHUs serving various areas within the facility, including the cafeteria, offices, classrooms, and common spaces.

The plumbing design aspect of the project involved the re-routing of natural gas piping to ensure compliance with the current New York City building code. Additionally, DM Engineers collaborated with the architect to determine the appropriate rating for the natural gas piping, ensuring that safety standards were met. In total, approximately 100 tons of cooling capacity were replaced in the facility, significantly enhancing its HVAC infrastructure.

Throughout the construction phase, DM Engineers provided valuable support and oversight, ensuring that the project was executed smoothly and in accordance with the design specifications. This included working closely with the facility during construction execution and assisting with the New York City Department of Buildings (DOB) close-out process.

The successful completion of this project has undoubtedly improved the overall functionality and efficiency of the HVAC systems at KIPP Academy Elementary School, providing a conducive environment for learning and enhancing the comfort and well-being of students, faculty, and staff.

Columbia UniversityProyecto 4

Columbia University enlisted the services of DM Engineers as an owner’s project engineer to oversee a critical infrastructure project. This project involved the replacement of the condensate polisher and softener for the high-pressure boiler plant while ensuring the continuous operation of a sprawling 32-acre academic campus throughout the construction process.

The scope of work for this project was multifaceted and required meticulous planning and coordination. Initially, the project involved the installation of new condensate softeners, complete with all ancillary controls and electrical service. This step was crucial in preparing the system for the subsequent changes.

One of the significant challenges was modifying the chemical composition of the boiler water treatment to enable the switchover of equipment without negatively impacting the quality of steam generated. This required a careful adjustment of the water treatment process to ensure a seamless transition.

Subsequently, the project replicated a similar process for the replacement of the three condensate polisher tanks. Throughout all phases of the project, DM Engineers played a central role in leading the engineering and construction team. Their expertise and guidance were essential in ensuring the successful execution of this critical infrastructure project while maintaining the uninterrupted operation of Columbia University’s 32-acre academic campus.

Columbia UniversityProyecto 5

DM Engineers was entrusted by Columbia University with the responsibility of overseeing the implementation of the natural gas system for the Pupin Physics Building, specifically serving the teaching laboratories. This project involved a comprehensive scope of work, which encompassed both the design and execution of the construction project engineering.

The natural gas system installation was a pivotal component of this endeavor, designed to serve six floors of academic space within the Pupin Physics Building. A noteworthy challenge of the project was the need to carry out the installation and upgrades while maintaining the building’s occupancy, which required careful planning and execution to minimize disruptions to ongoing activities.

In addition to the main academic space, the project also included an upgrade to the facility’s gymnasium dryers’ natural gas service and the mechanical ventilation system. These enhancements aimed to improve the overall functionality and efficiency of the building while ensuring the safe and reliable delivery of natural gas to various areas within the facility.

DM Engineers’ role in leading the design and execution of this project played a crucial role in the successful implementation of the natural gas system and related upgrades for the Pupin Physics Building at Columbia University, contributing to the overall improvement of the facility’s infrastructure and functionality.

Columbia UniversityProyecto 3

Columbia University enlisted the expertise of DM Engineers as a project engineer to oversee a complex task: the replacement of the fuel oil control system, all while ensuring the uninterrupted operation of a sprawling 32-acre academic campus during the construction process. This endeavor was particularly challenging given the significant fuel system involved, totaling over 170,000 gallons of oil.

The controls upgrade was a critical aspect of this project and encompassed several key components. This included the replacement of all system control valves, the introduction of new Human-Machine Interface (HMI) panels, and the configuration of Programmable Logic Controller (PLC) software using ladder logic and function block programming. Furthermore, the project involved the development of new graphics and a sequence of operations tailored to the upgraded system.

DM Engineers played a central role in leading the construction team throughout the project’s execution. Their responsibilities included conducting design reviews, participating in controls development meetings, overseeing field installations, and managing the system commissioning process.

This project demanded a high level of expertise and precision, and DM Engineers’ leadership and coordination ensured the successful replacement of the fuel oil control system for Columbia University’s extensive academic campus, all while maintaining the critical functionality of the fuel system.

KIPP Charter Primary & Middle School

The KIPP School, a charter school serving grades 1 through 6, is part of the KIPP network of tuition-free schools operating independently of the city Department of Education. The project involved a complete fit-out of a 6-story building, covering approximately 34,240 gross square feet. The facility includes various spaces such as a cafeteria, exercise room, classrooms, computer rooms, specialized laboratory classrooms, and administrative areas.

DM Engineers played a crucial role in the commissioning of all Mechanical, Electrical, and Plumbing (MEP) disciplines for this project. The scope of commissioning encompassed a wide range of equipment and systems, including building exhaust fans, electric fine tube radiators, condensate pumps, electric duct heaters, Air Conditioning Units (VRF), dedicated outdoor air conditioning units (DOA), Computer Room Air Conditioning Units, heat recovery boxes, lighting and lighting controls, electrical panels, the domestic water system, sewage system, and building automation systems.

DM Engineers joined the project team prior to the construction phase and worked collaboratively to ensure the successful execution of the project within the planned six-month timeframe. This involvement included the development of a comprehensive commissioning plan, as well as the creation of pre-functional and functional checklists. During the construction phase, our team established construction checklists and pre-functional and functional testing forms, conducted equipment installation verification to align with design specifications, documented any construction issues using Facility Grid Software, and witnessed hydrostatic tests and duct leakage tests.

As the project moved into the turnover phase, DM Engineers facilitated training sessions and ensured that all required project documentation was delivered in accordance with the project owner’s specifications. This comprehensive approach to commissioning contributed to the successful implementation of the MEP systems at the KIPP School, ensuring that the facility operates efficiently and effectively to support the educational needs of its students and staff.

Columbia UniversityProyecto 1

NYC Local Law 87 (LL87) plays a crucial role in promoting energy efficiency in large buildings, and it mandates that structures exceeding 50,000 gross square feet undergo regular energy audits and retro-commissioning measures as part of the broader Greener, Greater Buildings Plan (GGBP). The primary objective of this law is to provide building owners with valuable insights into their energy consumption patterns through comprehensive energy audits, which involve thorough surveys and analyses of energy use. Additionally, retro-commissioning ensures that building equipment is correctly installed and performing optimally.

Following the implementation of corrective measures identified through these processes, building owners are required to submit an Energy Efficiency Report (EER) to the Department of Buildings (DOB). The audited and repaired systems encompass various energy-consuming systems, including the building envelope, HVAC systems, conveying systems, domestic hot water systems, and electrical/lighting systems.

Columbia University recognized the significance of complying with these mandates and enlisted the expertise of DM Engineers to manage the Retrocommissioning Measures (RCM) and Energy Conservation Measures (ECM) program, ensuring adherence to New York City Local Law requirements. The scope of this project encompassed energy audits, RCM and ECM field implementation, field verification, and DOB compliance submission for both phase II and the ongoing phase III of this comprehensive campus-wide initiative.

Phase II of the program involved 31 buildings, while phase III covered 10 additional buildings. Throughout these phases, the project team diligently implemented over 2,000 retro-commissioning measures and energy conservation measures to enhance the energy efficiency of the university’s infrastructure. One of the notable challenges faced during program execution was conducting audits and implementing measures in a campus that operates year-round. Despite this challenge, the DM Engineers team effectively managed the work and met client expectations, contributing to the university’s commitment to energy efficiency and sustainability.

Columbia UniversityProyecto 2

The Schapiro Center for Engineering and Physical Science Research (CEPSR) is a prominent research facility situated within the Columbia Morningside Campus. Constructed in 1991, CEPSR was equipped with state-of-the-art HVAC (Heating, Ventilation, and Air Conditioning) technology for its era.

CEPSR’s fourth, sixth, seventh, eighth, ninth, and tenth floors are dedicated to housing offices, as well as engineering and physics laboratories. Notably, the tenth floor is home to a Clean Room utilized by researchers from various disciplines. Additionally, the lower floors and the cellar of the building accommodate the campus’s high-pressure steam plant.

Columbia University enlisted the services of DM Engineers to spearhead a significant upgrade project focusing on Air Handling Units (AHUs) 7, 8, 9, 10, and 11 within the CEPSR building. The scope of work for this project was extensive and included a wide range of improvements. Key elements of the upgrade encompassed the replacement of chilled water and glycol recovery loops, steam pipe trims, coils, dampers/actuators, and the transition from pneumatic to Direct Digital Controls (DDC) for HVAC system control. The project also involved the installation of variable frequency drives (VFDs) and repairs to the AHU casings located in the penthouse machine room.

One notable achievement of this project was the management of a total volumetric flow exceeding 200,000 cubic feet per minute (CFM), which served the upper floors of the building. This complex task was executed meticulously and was fully balanced upon project completion. Furthermore, the construction process was carefully phased to ensure the uninterrupted operation of the CEPSR building, underscoring DM Engineers’ dedication to maintaining the facility’s functionality throughout the upgrade.