Optimization of mechanical ventilation operations for State Route 99 Tunnel

摘要

Ventilation operations optimization provides safe tunnel facilities while introducing environmentally sustainable energy cost savings. This research considers normal operation scenarios of the SR99 Tunnel ventilation system that is designed to maintain acceptable air quality and mitigate fire hazards. Acceptable air quality criteria are considered for the atmosphere within the tunnel and the nearby neighbourhood in proximity to the tunnel portals. Ventilation air demand is based on vehicle emissions calculated from traffic distribution and number of vehicles inside the tunnel as per PIARC guidelines and admissible SR99 project air quality standards. Analysis utilizing predicted traffic volume for 2015 and SES simulations showed that mechanical ventilation would not be required for free flow traffic conditions and exit portal emission concentration below a minimum threshold. However, zero exit portal emission criteria would require almost continuous mechanical ventilation.