Building Management System (BMS) -Objective, Types and Features

A building management system (BMS) is a computer-based control system designed to manage and optimize energy consumption in buildings. It achieves this by monitoring and controlling the mechanical and electrical equipment used in modern buildings. 

In this blog post, we will explore the objectives, types, and features of BMS to understand its significance in intelligent building management.

Objective of BMS

The primary objective of a BMS is to ensure the safety of building operations while monitoring and optimizing the use and efficiency of its supervised subsystems. By implementing a BMS, buildings can achieve more efficient operations, leading to cost savings and reduced energy consumption.

Types of BMS

BMS caters to various facility subsystems and can be classified into different types based on their functionality. Some common types of BMS include:

1. Electric system management
2. Plumbing system management
3. Heating, ventilation, and air conditioning (HVAC) system management
4. Lighting system management
5. Fire alarm and firefighting system management
6. Security control system management
7. CCTV system management
8. Lift control system management
9. Pumping system management
10. Water tanks level management
11. Irrigation system management
12. Electrical meters monitoring
13. Water leak detection system management
14. Split units control
15. Variable frequency drives (VFD) management
16. Variable refrigerant flow/volume (VRF/VRV) control
17. Integration with other systems supporting BMS control and monitoring

Features of BMS

A comprehensive BMS consists of three main components:

1. BMS Hardware

The hardware components of a BMS include sensors, controllers, actuators, and communication devices that interface with the building's equipment.

2. BMS Software

The software component of a BMS is responsible for monitoring and controlling the connected equipment. It provides a user interface for operators to visualize the field equipment, set alarms for critical faults, and ensure efficient operation.

3. BMS Networking Protocols

Various protocols facilitate data transfer between devices in a BMS system, ensuring seamless communication and coordination.

Benefits of BMS

Implementing a BMS offers several benefits for building management

1. Energy Efficiency and Comfort

BMS enables automated control of energy consumption and occupant comfort through a centralized digital interface.

2. Centralized Control and Flexibility

BMS provides centralized control, flexibility, interactivity, and feedback, allowing efficient management of equipment and systems.

3. Enhanced Equipment Performance

BMS increases equipment productivity, extends equipment lifetime, and identifies system faults early, reducing maintenance costs.

4. Energy Optimization

BMS optimizes equipment cycles using pre-defined algorithms focused on energy efficiency, ensuring optimal energy utilization.

5. Maintenance and Diagnostics

A BMS implements diagnostics for HVAC components, detecting potential failures and minimizing maintenance costs.

6. Real-time Monitoring and Reporting

BMS enables real-time monitoring and optimization of occupant comfort, while also providing performance management and reporting capabilities to meet energy consumption targets.

Conclusion

Building Management Systems (BMS) are crucial for efficient and intelligent building operations. By leveraging BMS technology, building owners and facility managers can optimize energy consumption, improve equipment performance, and enhance occupant comfort. 

With centralized control, real-time monitoring, and reporting capabilities, BMS empowers businesses to achieve energy efficiency goals and maintain a high standard of building operations. Keep exploring the advancements in BMS technology to unlock its full potential for efficient building management and energy optimization.

Also Read: What is BIM?