Advanced HVAC Building Automation with KNX ClimaECO transforms Health Center in Germany

This innovative facility focuses on five core areas: rehabilitation, therapy, prevention, fitness, and water, and offers a wide range of courses and treatments to improve patient health.

In line with their holistic philosophy, the operators of vorum have prioritized both patient care, resident comfort and environmental responsibility for a better quality of life. When planning the new building, they sought an energy-efficient automation solution for the facility, alongside an appealing and modern design to ensure optimal patient surroundings. The choice of ABB's ClimaECO for heating, ventilation, and air conditioning (HVAC) based on the KNX standard demonstrates commitment to sustainability and is an innovative application of KNX technology. 

Advanced HVAC Building Automation with ABB i-bus® KNX ClimaECO 

ClimaECO is an integrated HVAC automation system based on ABB’s i-bus® KNX technology. It seamlessly integrates room automation with primary HVAC systems to monitor, control, and optimize energy generation, distribution, and consumption. The system delivers energy savings of up to 30 percent, ensuring compliance with Germany’s GEG2024 energy standards, derived from the European Energy Performance of Buildings Directive (EPBD).

At vorum, ABB’s KNX ClimaECO was deployed across all buildings, including treatment and consultation rooms, fitness areas, a café, the administrative building and a swimming pool area. Key features include:

• Room control systems: regulate flow temperatures for energy-efficient heating  
• ABB Tenton® room operating units enable intuitive control for users, utilizing KNX-based technology for lighting, blinds, and heating 
• Switches and sockets from the future® linear range  
• Lighting and blind control: Integrated KNX-based solutions enhance operational efficiency. 
• Visualization software: The EisBär SCADA V3 visualization software provides real-time insights into building functions for seamless management. 

The implementation of this advanced system at vorum was a collaborative effort. The planning was carried out by the engineering firm Projekt-HLS, while Harald Jakob Elektroanlagen was responsible for the implementation.  

Breaking new ground with KNX for the control of HVAC systems  

For both Projekt HLSand Harald Jakob Elektroanlagenthis was their first experience implementing ABB’s KNX system for HVAC applications. The intuitive design of ClimaECO eliminated the need for additional contractors for measurement and control technology. This streamlined approach reduced project costs while simplifying maintenance for the operators. Additionally, the user benefits during operation by not needing to contact multiple service providers for any questions. 

Maximilian Brunner, project manager at Projekt HLS, emphasized the importance of sustainability: “By opting for ABB’s holistic HVAC automation solution ClimaECO, the operators have made a valuable contribution to climate protection.” He noted: “Very complex processes are brought together in a simple system based on KNX. After a short briefing, the customer can control the entire building remotely and optimize data from anywhere.” 

A Model for Sustainable Building Automation 

The vorum  center exemplifies how modern automation can harmonize energy efficiency with operational simplicity. By leveraging ABB’s ClimaECO solution, the health center not only enhances user comfort but also actively contributes to environmental protection.  

Credits: Energieoptimierter Verbrauch: Gesundheitszentrum entscheidet sich für Clima Eco von ABB  by Laura Gehrlein