Corona-compliant events - state-of-the-art ventilation technology in the Grand Hall Zollverein

In the course of the pandemic, the highest demands are placed on the establishment and implementation of hygiene concepts. An essential component for the safe realisation of corona-compliant events is the supply and filtering of the breathing air in the location in order to prevent the spread of aerosols. Our technical operations manager Daniel Kölle informs us about the "ventilation and air-conditioning systems in the Grand Hall.

How suitable are the air handling units for holding events under Corona conditions?

In the course of the refurbishment, our air conditioning systems were designed with the future in mind so that extensions and optimisations are possible at any time. We are currently upgrading the air-conditioning systems with the latest technology - however, the efficiency and performance of the system are basically designed for more than 2,500 people present in the Grand Hall - so that a pleasant room climate and, above all, a virus-free supply of fresh air is guaranteed at all times. Since events may only be held under Corona conditions with a reduced number of participants, we tend to exceed the legal requirements for our air conditioning system at every event.

How is adaptation to changing weather conditions ensured in the fresh air supply?

Our air handling units are equipped with an automatic control system that adapts to the conditions independently and digitally controlled. In the colder seasons, for example, the ventilation works with sustainable heat recovery to save energy. In addition, the systems are coupled and networked with our underfloor heating - this enables cost-saving heating of the Grand Hall without long lead times. If the outside temperatures are very high in summer, it is also possible to connect cooling machines to the systems via a so-called cooling register in order to pre-cool the fresh air supplied.