Since the 1990s, retrofitting laboratory spaces has meant anything from upgrading to more energy-efficient variable airflow control (VAV) to providing the most energy-efficient fume hoods and control logic. Through the years, laboratory design has gone through a tremendous transformation. Gone are the days of a simple laboratory with one or two constant volume fume hoods. University, research and healthcare science and technology require a much more thoughtful approach to space utilized by its staff and students.

Creating Sustainable Critical Spaces

Today, existing structures are moving toward sustainable design and operation, such as downtown office buildings that are transitioning to research spaces or older laboratories that are being upgraded. There is a significant movement that recognizes the impact of carbon emissions on buildings, and laboratories are notoriously the highest energy users in university science buildings and research facilities. Hence, laboratories are some of the most crucial areas of concern for decarbonization in the future.

Owners and engineers typically join in this essential discussion to ensure a proper direction for a sustainable future. Understanding the current and planned uses for these critical spaces’ is pertinent to meeting staff safety and comfort while attaining responsible energy goals.

Critical Space Airflow Control Solutions

The airflow valve utilized to control the laboratory space is one of the most critical choices an owner and engineer will make when designing and installing a sustainable airflow control system. Retrofitting previously installed systems and retrofitting existing building spaces into laboratories are not without higher costs. Owners see opportunities to switch to or engage with products that will give them more system flexibility, significant energy savings, and, in some cases, the ability to utilize their current BAS contractor for direct control. For these reasons and others, the airflow valve’s design matters greatly. Specifically designed to meet these demands is the award-winning AccuValve^® airflow control valve.

The Award-Winning AccuValve Airflow Control Valve

Installation: When the original venturi valve manufacturer replaces their own valve with a newer, lower-pressure alternative version, the valve size is increased. This increased valve size means more cost (and interruption) for ductwork transitions. In contrast, the AccuValve is nearly identical in dimension to older venturi valve installations, thereby simplifying replacement. This attention to sizing alleviates additional costs to the owner by allowing a one-for-one replacement without transitions in most cases. In addition, unlike venturi valves, the AccuValve can be mounted in any orientation and does not require straight duct runs before and after the valve. The orientation flexibility eliminates any potential field installation issues when there are complicated or tight areas. This is especially important when retrofitting spaces that will become critical operating environments.

The AccuValve — Mounting at Any Angle. No Straight Runs Required.

Energy Savings: Most older installations will have valves requiring an excessive operating pressure drop. The AccuValve’s design reduces the overall system pressure requirement, saving tremendous energy dollars. Another benefit of operating at lower pressures is reduced sound levels, making for a much quieter environment.

Owner Flexibility: The AccuValve is designed with the owner in mind when retrofitting their older critical environment control system with energy-efficient technology. The AccuValve offers owners maximum retrofit flexibility from a phased approach to replacing an entire system. In addition, the owner can also decide if they want to keep a stand-alone control system in their laboratories or have their own Building Automation System take direct control of the spaces.

For the Designer/Engineer

Simplified layout without the need to be concerned about the mounting position or duct layout
Ability to choose an airflow valve for either flow range or by operating pressure, which can maximize system static pressure savings
A product that can meet ASHRAE 90.1 standard for Demand Based Static Pressure Reset Control without the need for additional parts and pieces throughout the building ductwork
Peace of mind with the safety of true airflow measurement

For the Installer

Ease of installation without concern about duct mounting arrangement – can mount in any position

For the Owner

Flexibility of product allowing direct control by Building Automation System (BAS) or as a stand-alone critical environment airflow control system providing full communication (e.g., BACnet^®) to the primary building automation system
Simplified understanding and ability for independent owner change control of complicated fume hood control systems
No recalibration of the airflow valve is required
Peace of mind that they will always know the true airflow affecting the operation of their critical systems and the safety of staff and clients
Maximized sustainable energy savings for the life of the building
Capability for Demand Based Static Pressure Reset Control without the need for additional parts

Redesigning existing laboratories for sustainable energy reduction, updated usage, and repurposing commercial spaces into critical environment spaces requires thoughtful planning. Our experienced staff at Accuspec, Inc. is available to assist in providing application-specific cost-efficient energy-saving options such as the AccuValve for your next project. Please call us at 203-261-8100 or email us.

Kevin Stettnisch

Applications Engineer

As an Applications Engineer, Kevin assists the sales team in a variety of different areas, including product selection, submittal documentation and proposals. He also shadows job site visits with other sales engineers to expand his knowledge of project design, product troubleshooting and communicating with other engineers, contractors, owners and end users.

Kevin is competent in Spanish and holds a Bachelor of Science degree in Mechanical Engineering from Lafayette College in Pennsylvania.

Kris Hess

Project Manager

Kris has over 23 years of experience in the HVAC industry specializing in the design and installation of laboratory control systems. His solid systems and HVAC industry knowledge combined with his thorough and in-depth analytical skills allows him to deliver consistent, positive results for our clients. Kris has an aptitude for understanding new products and approaches and takes pride in establishing and maintaining long-term relationships with each customer he supports.

Kris’ control systems certifications include: Easy IO CPT, Niagara AX, Honeywell Excel 5000 CARE and Tek-Air Smart Lab Control Systems.

Nicole Tierney

Office Administrator

As an Office Administrator, Nicole handles office and service administration tasks in our Danbury, CT location.

She has experience as a customer service representative, a sales coordinator and a strong background in customer service and sales support.

Cathleen Rugulo

Office Administrator

Cathleen manages the administrative activities for Accuspec's NJ office. Her background includes managing business finances, back office operations and client relations.

She holds degrees in education and english, and taught kindergarten through 6 grade science and creative writing in private schools in New Jersey and California.

Toni Avallone

Office Manager

Toni joined the Accuspec team in 2019. She maintains and organizes administrative activities including AR/AP, customer and vendor support, and various other office operations and procedures. She has over 14 years of experience in handling a wide range of office management and executive assistant related responsibilities for both small and global businesses. Toni works closely with the Accuspec team members, assisting with the company’s diverse needs.

Toni holds a BA in Communications from Western Connecticut State University, as well as an MS in Education from the University of Bridgeport.

Ryan Katkocin

Assistant Project Manager

As Assistant Project Manager, Ryan reviews engineering documents, prepares submittals and works with mechanical contractors to drive projects to completion. He brings extensive experience as an operations manager, loan processor and underwriter to Accuspec. He has worked closely with government agencies, utility companies, design engineers, and financing agents.

Ryan holds a B.A. in Economics from Marist College, in Poughkeepsie, NY and an M.B.A. from the University of Connecticut.

Chris DeStefano

Service Manager

Chris has been with Accuspec since 2002 and oversees all service offerings including turnkey laboratory airflow control projects, ongoing testing, preventative maintenance and repair services. He also serves as an important technical advisor to Accuspec's sales staff.

Chris's formal training includes ACCA's (Air Conditioning Contractors of America) programs on heating and cooling loads and duct sizing. He has also participated in numerous training programs offered on airflow control systems and products.

Chris holds a Bachelors of Science Degree in Economics from Quinnipiac University.

Sam Hall

Sales Engineer

Sam spent three years in an Application Engineering role at Accuspec before moving into the Sales Engineer position. In that role, he worked closely with the sales team supporting projects at each phase: design, pre-sale, and post-sale.

Sam has extensive experience in analyzing, estimating, and submitting on laboratory projects, along with other markets Accuspec specializes in.

Sam holds a Bachelor of Science degree in Mechanical Engineering from Penn State University.

Lucas Rowe

Sales Engineer

Lucas Rowe holds a Bachelor of Science degree in Electrical Engineering from The University of Connecticut in Storrs. While earning his degree, Lucas worked summers for a plumbing and heating company in Albany, NY focusing on residential, commercial and public sectors.

As an application engineer with Accuspec, Lucas worked closely with the sales team on designing and supporting jobs on a pre-sale and post-sale basis. Lucas’ current responsibilities included reviewing design documents, generating submittal documentation and creating sequences of operations to meet design requirements. He has worked on over 50 laboratory projects including Amherst College New Science and Engineering Complex (a 6 story, 250,000 sq. ft. facility).

Kristen Marshall

Vice President Brand Engagement

With over 25 years in the marketing industry, Kristen is a motivated, high-performing leader with a proven track record in growing revenues, increasing operating profit, and leading teams to achieve corporate objectives.

In her latest role as VP, Brand Engagement for Accuspec, she leads both the Human Resources and Marketing disciplines to attract high caliber talent and create strategy that produces more effective execution, higher productivity, and disruptive innovation for the company. She ensures that both areas are focusing on the same objectives but applied to different audiences. This collaboration allows Accuspec to stand out in an already saturated market, by building its brand and increasing awareness with clients.

Education includes B.S. in Marketing from Clemson University, M.B.A. in International Business from Fairfield University and currently enrolled in the M.A. in Psychology program at New York University.

Bill Theel

Senior Sales Engineer

Bill works closely with the end-user, consulting, and contracting communities to specify and apply Accuspec's products over a wide array of facility types. He is well known and highly regarded in these communities, and is often viewed by his clients as a trusted advisor.

Bill had an excellent systems related background both on the end-user and provider sides of the business. He has overseen numerous projects to improve quality, efficiency and safety and was responsible for the construction of a major sterile-filling facility.

Bill holds a B.S. in Chemical Engineering from Rutgers University, and is currently an active member of the International Society for Pharmaceutical Engineering (ISPE).

Brian Simkins

Senior Sales Engineer

Brian's primary responsibility with Accuspec is to interface with consulting engineers and owners to assist them in designing, installing and commissioning critical HVAC and airflow control systems. Although Brian is a very well-rounded individual, he has particular expertise in the utilization of descant dehumidification for low-dewpoint and dedicated outside air applications.

Brian has been published in several magazines on topics such as make-up air and humidity control systems, arena commissioning, and energy efficient design. He has presented many times on desiccant technology topics including Part Load Dehumidifier Performance, Humidity Control for Cold Storage Load Docks, and Desiccant Based Make-up Air Systems for Ice Arenas.

Brian holds a Bachelor of Science degree in Mechanical Engineering from Northeastern University, Boston MA. Brian serves on the Board of the Long Island chapter of the American Society of Heating, Refrigerating and Air Conditioning Engineers (ASHRAE) and is an active member in the United States Green Building Council (USGBC).

Jonathan Savona

Senior Sales Engineer

Jon has been with Accuspec since 2001, specializing in critical airflow control design in the Pharmaceutical/Biotech, University, and Healthcare markets. His industry experience also includes project engineering, and project management for large critical environment projects.

Jon has built and maintains many strong relationships with consulting engineers, architects, facility owners, and contractors throughout the Northeast. He works closely with clients in Connecticut and Central/Western Massachusetts.

Jon is a Past President of the International Society for Pharmaceutical Engineering (ISPE) New England Chapter (now Boston Chapter) and also held positions as Co-Chair and Chair for ISPE International Student Development Council based out of Tampa, FL. He is also an active member of the American Society of Heating, Refrigerating and Air Conditioning Engineers (ASHRAE).

Jim Brech

Senior Sales Engineer

Jim has been with Accuspec since 1989. His primary responsibility has been to interface with consulting engineers, owners, and contractors to assist them in designing, installing and commissioning laboratory air flow control, desiccant dehumidification systems and exhaust air systems. Jim has a wealth of experience in laboratory exhaust systems in the research and education sectors and has also been involved with numerous projects for archival storage. He has been honored as the top producing representative in the country for Strobic Air.

Jim holds Associates Degrees in both Electronic Technology and in Marketing Management and is an active member in the American Society for Heating, Refrigerating and Air Conditioning Engineers (ASHRAE).

Jeff Siemasko

Vice President

Jeff joined Accuspec in 2019 and specializes in critical airflow control in the pharmaceutical/biotech, school/university, and healthcare markets. His background includes sales/application engineering, marketing, business development, direct sales, and sales management. He also has extensive experience managing employees and manufacturers’ representatives.

Jeff has designed a large number of HVAC systems to provide precise temperature and humidity control for many demanding applications. He has also contributed to numerous articles relating to the use of desiccant dehumidification in many different industries including food processing, pharmaceutical manufacturing, and health care. Jeff works with clients in Eastern and Central Massachusetts, New Hampshire, Maine, and Rhode Island.

Jeff received a Bachelor of Science in Mechanical Engineering from Worcester Polytechnic Institute and a Master’s in Business Administration from the University of New Hampshire. He is a member of the American Society for Heating, Refrigerating and Air Conditioning (ASHRAE).

Craig Marshall

Principal

Craig oversees the sales activities at Accuspec's Connecticut office, and directly serves clients in the consulting engineering, end-user, and contracting communities.

Craig has been with Accuspec for more than 20 years, first as a Project Engineer and then as Vice President. His primary responsibility has been to interface with consulting engineers and owners to assist them in designing, installing and commissioning laboratory air flow control and desiccant dehumidification systems. Craig has designed over 100 low humidity spaces for manufacturing areas, archival storage areas and hospital operating suites. He has also designed over 80 airflow control and pressurization systems for the R&D laboratory marketplace, hospital isolation rooms and pharmaceutical manufacturing areas.

Craig received a Bachelor of Science in Mechanical Engineering from the State University of New York at Buffalo, and is a licensed Professional Engineer in the State of Connecticut.

Retrofitting Laboratory Airflow Controls

Creating Sustainable Critical Spaces

Critical Space Airflow Control Solutions

For the Designer/Engineer

For the Installer

For the Owner

Products for HVAC Systems

HVAC Systems Solutions

HVAC Systems Project Profiles

HVAC Resources

About

Contact

Kevin Stettnisch

Kris Hess

Nicole Tierney

Cathleen Rugulo

Toni Avallone

Ryan Katkocin

Chris DeStefano

Sam Hall

Lucas Rowe

Kristen Marshall

Bill Theel

Brian Simkins

Jonathan Savona

Jim Brech

Jeff Siemasko

Craig Marshall