Subway Station Ventilation and Air Conditioning System: A Comparative Analysis with Above-Ground Structures

Most railway stations are constructed underground, resulting in closed, poorly ventilated environments with high passenger traffic. This leads to notable disparities compared to above-ground structures. Firstly, subway stations rely solely on inlet/outlet entrances and ventilation shafts for fresh air, making the environment highly enclosed. Secondly, the high volume of commuters, lighting, and equipment generate significant heat and pollutants. Lastly, the thermal inertia of the station's soil covering makes it difficult to dissipate heat in a short time frame.

These distinct differences between above-ground and underground buildings necessitate unique approaches to ventilation and air conditioning systems. For instance, subway station systems must not only provide a comfortable passenger experience but also serve as smoke exhausts during emergencies. Additionally, subway stations have larger people and equipment loads, necessitating larger equipment selection. As internal heat sources are hard to dissipate quickly, subway stations do not require heating in winter and only need cooling in the summer. Finally, the water system pressure requirements for above-ground high-rise buildings are not a factor for subway station systems, which are primarily located two floors underground and are powered by pumps.