This was part of a multi-year “Journey with AUS” expansion project. The focus of the project was on delivering high-end and self-sufficient HVAC BIM systems to the newly constructed West Gate Expansion at Austin Bergstrom International Airport. BIM Services were involved in the critical phase of this program which involved designing, constructing, and integrating the Central Utility Plant (CUP) and the Thermal Energy Storage (TES).
Project Summary
- Advanced, independent HVAC infrastructure for the massive new West Gate Expansion
- New CUP (Central Utility Cup) constructed and commissioned to include efficient chillers, boilers, and related pumps
- Incorporation of a TES system for load reduction and increased efficiency
- BIM model for the overhead HVAC distribution, hydronic piping, and equipment layout
- Sustainability initiatives aimed at achieving a 3-star Austin Energy Green Building rating
Project Snapshot
| Scope | Heating, Ventilation, Air Conditioning (HVAC) |
| Location | Austin, Texas, USA |
| General Contractor | Whiting-Turner Contracting Company |
| Architect | Gensler |
Independent HVAC BIM Infrastructure for the West Gate Expansion
A terminal expansion of this scale needs HVAC infrastructure that can operate independently of the existing airport systems. Our BIM 3D modeling team engineered and coordinated:
- Comprehensive HVAC systems for the West Gate Expansion, ensuring independent operation and enhanced passenger comfort
- System layouts sized to support the full climate control demands of the expanded terminal
- HVAC infrastructure designed to align with the phased construction schedule of the broader Journey With AUS program
Central Utility Plant and Thermal Energy Storage Design
Efficient, resilient climate control at an airport terminal starts at the central plant. This work included:
- Design and commissioning of a new Central Utility Plant (CUP) with high-efficiency chillers, boilers, and associated pumps
- An extensive Thermal Energy Storage (TES) system integrated for peak-load shaving and operational efficiency
- CUP and TES infrastructure engineered to support resilient, efficient climate control across the terminal
BIM Coordination and Clash-Free HVAC BIM Modeling
Overhead HVAC ductwork and hydronic piping at an active airport terminal have to be resolved against structural and other trade systems well before installation. Our BIM coordination process paired detailed modeling with rigorous clash detection. Key outcomes included:
- BIM model and coordination for all overhead HVAC ductwork, hydronic piping, and equipment location
- BIM coordination of ductwork and piping layout against structure, electrical, and architectural prior to installation
- Field-ready documentation supporting a smooth installation sequence across the expanded terminal
Quality Control, Commissioning, and Green Building Sustainability
Delivering HVAC infrastructure for a high-traffic terminal environment required rigorous testing and an energy-focused approach. Our shop drawings supported a team that:
- Controlled the quality of all HVAC system testing and commissioning including Air Handling Unit (AHU) and Variable Air Volume (VAV)
- Assisted in making sustainability efforts towards getting Austin Energy Green Building 3-star rating
- Delivered energy-efficient systems supporting the airport’s long-term operational and environmental goals
Austin Airport West Gate Expansion is one such project that is a true reflection of how we use HVAC BIM Modeling, coordination, and energy-efficient central plant design to provide resilient infrastructure in the aviation domain. You can look at more projects in this category from our Transportation & Aviation Portfolio.