Colorado State University
CSU's New Facilities: Health and Innovation Centers
Discover CSU's new Health Education and Global Foods Innovation Centers, featuring specialized HVAC systems for energy efficiency and safety.





Project Overview
Colorado State University (CSU) undertook the construction of two new educational facilities in Fort Collins: the Health Education Center and the Global Foods Innovation Center. Both buildings demanded specialized HVAC systems that could balance energy efficiency with health and safety standards. The Global Foods Innovation Center required advanced filtration to protect food research environments, while the Health Education Center required quiet, vibration-free operation to support sensitive equipment and learning spaces.
Challenges
- Balancing varied requirements across multiple facilities — from advanced filtration to vibration control.
- Navigating space limitations while accommodating large-volume air handling units.
- Ensuring both energy efficiency and occupant comfort in highly utilized academic spaces.
Solutions
- Installed aluminum plate heat recovery systems with bypass to maximize energy efficiency.
- Designed dual VFD systems capable of adapting to large swings in airflow demand.
- Isolated exhaust fan motors from the airstream to reduce contamination risks.
- Applied specialized balancing and mounting methods to achieve strict vibration standards.

