The research and development building is an important building type with high demands for energy effectiveness and safety to be provided by the air-conditioning system. A simulation of different mechanical systems was made for a proposed 200,000 square foot. research building located in San Diego. The systems compared are variable volume with reheat, constant, volume with reheat, auxiliary air hoods, two fan variable air volume dual duct, and constant volume reheat with individual fume hood fans. The variable volume system with reheat was the best overall. This alternative is safe, reliable, and adaptable. The life cycle cost of this system was $11 million compared to the worst, alternative life cycle cost for constant volume reheat with individual fume hood fans of $18 million. The additional first cost of the variable volume reheat system is paid back in energy savings in less than six months.

Units: Dual