AHU VCD Replacement – Natural History Museum, Tring

Location: Natural History Museum, Tring

We were commissioned by Vita Energi Utilities Ltd, acting as main contractor, to carry out the replacement of faulty Volume Control Dampers (VCDs) within an Air Handling Unit (AHU) located in the plant room at the Natural History Museum in Tring.

The project involved removing ageing, non-operational dampers and installing a new airflow control solution while working within a live museum environment, ensuring minimal disruption to building operations.

Project Overview

The existing rectangular VCDs within the AHU had reached the end of their service life and were no longer operational, preventing proper airflow regulation throughout the ventilation system. Our brief was to remove the defective components and install new dampers while adapting the surrounding ductwork to suit updated equipment dimensions.

All works were completed within an operational facility, requiring careful planning, safe working practices, and a clean, controlled approach throughout.

Removal & Ductwork Modifications

The original installation consisted of two large rectangular dampers installed within a confined ductwork section measuring approximately 1m x 3m. Due to the size and condition of the existing units, removal required careful dismantling within the restricted plant room space.

Replacement dampers were supplied in smaller sections, requiring modifications to the existing ductwork layout. Our team fabricated and installed new duct sections to accommodate the updated configuration, replacing the original two dampers with four new Volume Control Dampers to achieve improved airflow control and maintain system functionality.

Installation & Reinstatement Works

Following removal and modification works, the new VCDs were installed and securely integrated into the AHU ductwork system. As part of the installation process, insulation and lagging removed during access were fully reinstated to restore thermal performance and system protection.

All fabrication and installation work was completed to a professional standard suitable for a commercial mechanical services environment.

Working Within an Operational Museum Environment

The Natural History Museum remained fully operational throughout the project, requiring strict adherence to site procedures and careful coordination to minimise disruption.

Key project considerations included:

• Working safely within a live public building

• Supplying full RAMS documentation prior to works

• Maintaining a clean and controlled work area

• Completing works efficiently to reduce operational impact

Our team ensured all areas were thoroughly cleaned and returned to service condition upon completion.

Completed Result

The completed AHU VCD replacement restored effective airflow control within the ventilation system, replacing outdated and seized components with a modern, serviceable solution.

Project outcomes included:

• Restored ventilation control performance

• Updated and adaptable ductwork configuration

• Minimal disruption to museum operations

• Safe and compliant installation within a sensitive environment

The upgraded system now provides reliable airflow regulation, supporting continued building operation and occupant comfort.

AHU Maintenance & Ductwork Modifications

We carry out AHU modifications, ductwork alterations, and ventilation system upgrades for commercial, industrial, and public-sector buildings. Our services include VCD replacement, ductwork fabrication, plant room installations, and mechanical system alterations completed safely within live environments.

If you require professional support for AHU repairs, ductwork modifications, or ventilation upgrades, contact us to discuss your project.