An innovative, efficient air conditioning system has been chosen to provide cooling and comfort to guests at the Strand Palace Hotel in the heart of London.  The hotel, which is walking distance from some of London’s most famous theatres and has been welcoming guests since 1909, needed to modernize its heating and cooling systems to ensure a quality experience for guests. High levels of energy efficiency and minimal disruption to the hotel’s operation during installation were also key considerations.    Hybrid VRF system  The solution came in the form of the unique Hybrid VRF (Variable Refrigerant Flow) system from Mitsubishi Electric, which offers simultaneous heating and cooling with full heat recovery. The combination of refrigerant and water used in Hybrid VRF also delivers a much lower Global Warming Potential (GWP) than traditional VRF systems and saves around 30-40% in refrigerant use in comparison. The fit-out was designed by Elementa Consulting and installed by Working Environments and has seen units fitted across the hotel’s 790 rooms. The project started in September 2018 and is due for completion in April 2020, making the project the biggest of its kind in Europe.  With an occupancy of 96% every day of the year, it was crucial that the hotel remained fully operational during installation to minimize loss of revenue and disruption to guests. Refrigerant is only used between the outdoor condenser and a special Hybrid Branch Controller box Cost-saving benefits  Ted Connell, specifier and designer at Elementa said, “Many different systems were assessed, but the expertise of the Working Environment team combined with the modular installation of the Hybrid VRF made it stand out as the right option for The Strand." "It was possible to complete the installation floor by floor, even half a floor at a time where necessary, allowing the hotel to remain open during the process.”  The Hybrid VRF system also offers additional cost-saving benefits by removing the need for leak detection equipment. Refrigerant is only used between the outdoor condenser and a special Hybrid Branch Controller box (HBC). From here, water is used to transfer heating or cooling to each room, removing the need for additional equipment or additional annual maintenance regimes. 

A new multi-million pound MRI scanner facility at NHS University Hospital of Wales, Cardiff, is being cooled by high-efficiency chillers from Carrier. Carrier’s heating, ventilating and air conditioning (HVAC) business is a part of Carrier, a global provider of innovative HVAC, refrigeration, fire, security and building automation technologies.  Three Carrier AquaSnap 30 RBP air-cooled liquid chillers have been installed by mechanical and electrical contractor Whitehead Building Services for the project’s main contractor Kier, under the Designed for Life construction procurement and delivery frameworks set by the Welsh National Health Service.  Greenspeed intelligence  The chillers deliver a combined cooling capacity of 900kW, and provide the stable, reliable cooling required to maintain the high-tech diagnostic equipment in peak condition. Chilled water is supplied to the scanners at six degrees Celsius and returned at 12 degrees Celsius, to begin the cooling cycle again.  Equipped with Carrier’s Greenspeed intelligence, the chillers have variable-speed water pumps and condenser fans to precisely match cooling output to current load conditions. This enables the system to operate with outstanding part-load efficiency, ensuring low carbon emissions and reduced running costs over the life-time of the plant.  The new scanning facility provides an important diagnostic and therapeutic service to the hospital" “These units offer exceptional resilience as they have three separate refrigerant circuits, and are therefore ideal for use in such critical applications,” said Russ Tyrrell, senior sales engineer for Carrier. “In the unlikely event of one circuit going out of operation, the chiller can continue to operate and deliver up to 66% of cooling capacity, maintaining a high level of cooling.”  Enviroshield coil coating  Variable speed fans also deliver low noise, an important consideration given the hospital application, plus extended operational life due to reduced wear and tear on compressors, fan motors and other moving mechanical parts.  “The new scanning facility provides an important diagnostic and therapeutic service to the hospital, and it is vital the machines are kept operational,” said Martyn Brown, who led the project for Whitehead Building Services. “We selected Carrier chillers because of their reliability and the fact it is proven technology. There are three existing Carrier chillers in use at the hospital, and they have an established track-record.”  To safeguard the units from corrosion in the challenging coastal environment, condensing coils are protected by Carrier’s Enviroshield coil coating. This factory-applied flexible epoxy coating completely encapsulates and isolates the aluminum metal of heat exchangers from the surrounding environment. 

Fort Worth's historic downtown art-deco Sinclair building, now a Marriott Autograph Collection hotel, boasts its new variable refrigerant flow (VRF) HVAC system which raised the first-floor ceilings and cleared the roof for a new bar. Baird, Hampton & Brown (BHB) provided civil, electrical, and mechanical/plumbing engineering design services to make the building one of the most technologically advanced hotels in the world. Variable refrigerant flow (VRF) system As part of the renovation, BHB's mechanical engineers were tasked with replacing the building's traditional hydronic heating and cooling system with the increasingly popular variable refrigerant flow (VRF). VRF is a type of air-conditioning system that adjusts refrigerant flow to different areas of a building as needed, instead of distributing large quantities of refrigerant at all times. This technique creates practical zoning, giving occupants the ability to adjust their space temperature to their preferred comfort level. An added advantage is that VRF is one of the most sustainable systems on the market. "The VRF system helps The Sinclair be a more efficient and smarter building. A hotel room's AC unit will respond to the person who walks in and automatically know what set-point temperature they are looking for," stated Gibran Michel, BHB Associate and Senior Mechanical Designer. VRF outdoor units BHB's design of the hotel's VRF system was the firm's largest to date. Since VRF does not require as much ductwork and space as a traditional HVAC system, the team was able to raise the ceiling heights and bring in ornate windows on the lobby level. In addition, the VRF outdoor units were placed in the alleyway instead of the roof, which made room for a rooftop bar. The Sinclair held its grand opening in January 2020 and now offers a unique and modern experience while maintaining its stylish look and feel, thanks in part to its advanced VRF HVAC system.

A construction project in Calgary, Canada, called Cube, features several firsts. It’s the city’s first office-to-residential space conversion and real estate developer Strategic Group’s first re-purposing project. It’s also the first building in Canada to feature the latest advancement in condensing boiler heating technology from Weil-McLain. The Cube – a 52,000 square-foot, seven-story building in Calgary’s Beltline neighborhood –features 65 one and two bedroom residential rental units and is just a short walk from the city’s downtown area. Once the aging Stephenson office building, the 38-year-old building was converted to new residential and rental units in 2019. Latest Boiler Technology Cities like Calgary have seen office building vacancy rates as high as 27% in the past few years" The building’s developer, Ash Mahmoud, Managing Director of Calgary-based Strategic Builders Inc (SBI), the construction arm of Strategic Group, which owns, manages and develops office, retail and apartment properties across Canada, oversaw the conversion project. “Cities like Calgary have seen office building vacancy rates as high as 27% in the past few years,” said Mahmoud. “Rather than let downtown buildings go unused, it has been one of our core missions to convert them into residential.” In addition to incorporating contemporary designs and styling finishes, Mahmoud also sought the latest in boiler technology to heat the new development. High Efficiency Boiler System To conduct the HVAC overhaul, Mahmoud turned to Nu-Mun Contracting, a Calgary-based HVAC company offering commercial and residential plumbing, heating, and air-conditioning services. Working with SBI and the project engineer, David Muncaster, owner of Nu-Mun Contracting, devised a strategy to convert the building to a high efficiency boiler system and recommended specification of the latest advancement in condensing boiler technology: the Stainless Vertical Firetube (SVF) from Weil-McLain. Eric Cameron, project manager with Nu-Mun Contracting, oversaw the boiler installation at the building. “We have a long standing relationship with Weil-McLain, and we trust the quality of their boilers,” said Cameron. “The SVF boilers were the perfect match for the space.” Simplify Installation And Operation The SVF also meets all market-driven bid specifications, and is designed for most heating needsTo meet the building’s heating style and load, the team installed two SVF 1100 MBH high-efficiency condensing gas boilers in the building. The SVF boilers features thermal efficiencies up to 97.1%, a clover-shaped stainless steel fire tube heat exchanger for corrosion resistance, and the intuitive and user-friendly Unity™ control system to simplify installation and operation. “With superior thermal efficiencies, the SVF line offers cost savings and energy efficiencies that could allow owners to qualify for local utility rebates, if available,” said Craig Demaray, National Sales Manager with Weil-McLain Canada. “The SVF also meets all market-driven bid specifications, and is designed for most heating needs including applications in schools and other educational facilities, public institutions, healthcare buildings, offices, hotels, multi-family, churches and more.” Multiple Boiler System The high-water content design of SVF heat exchanger means a low loss header is not required providing cost savings so the boilers can simply be piped in a primary-secondary design. The on-board Unity™ control system allowed the boilers to communicate with each other in a Multiple Boiler System (MBS). A master boiler controls the modulation and sequencing of the boilers on the network In this configuration, a master boiler controls the modulation and sequencing of the boilers on the network to achieve the desired system supply temperature. “With the automatic sequencing feature, the boilers communicate directly with one another so they sequence themselves and rotate as needed,” said Cameron. “They operate to optimize energy use and efficiencies. When heat is required, the boilers will stage on as needed.” Time-Saving Installation The Cube conversion project was completed in 12 months and more than two-thirds of the building is already leased to residents. Mahmoud praised the experience with Nu-Mun Contracting. “Working together with Nu-Mun was a seamless operation,” said Mahmoud. “It was a really great relationship and, as a result, the job was a complete success.” The start-up and installation progressed smoothly in part due to the way these boilers are designed" “The start-up and installation progressed smoothly in part due to the way these boilers are designed,” said Cameron. “The SVF boilers offers time-saving installation features that include heavy-duty roller casters for improved maneuverability in confined spaces, industrial-grade leveling legs, and an end-shot burner design requiring only 18 inches overhead space.” Low Operating Costs Mahmoud appreciates the ease of maintenance that the boilers offer for the building staff “The boilers are really user friendly,” said Mahmoud. “We can even conduct the annual maintenance on the units ourselves to keep them in tip-top shape.” In addition to offering class leading serviceability, the new boilers also offer low operating costs and are expected to bring energy savings and a reduction in gas usage to the facility. But most important, Mahmoud reported that tenants are extremely pleased with the climate and comfort of the building.

Indoor comfort technologies from LG Electronics spotlighted at the 2020 AHR Expo, helped transform a 1920s art-deco office building into a brand-new luxury boutique hotel. The Sinclair, a Marriott Autograph Collection Hotel, is featured in a new case study debuting at the 2020 AHR Expo show (booth No. 6343). Future-Ready Technologies The Sinclair Hotel aims to create an unforgettable and luxurious experience for its guests in a classic 1929 building in downtown Fort Worth, Texas. The hotel’s owner and management team sought state-of-the-art technology to power, sustain and manage the entire property while maintaining the historic building’s unique design and architectural details. The Sinclair Hotel required individual control of its HVAC system throughout 164 guestrooms The hotel required individual control of its HVAC system throughout 164 guestrooms (featuring 50 different room types) and sufficient heating and cooling for the lobby bar, reception area and large basement restaurant. With this in mind, the hotel management team identified LG as a company that was not only able to fulfill a myriad HVAC needs, but also create a full building ecosystem with its range of cutting-edge technologies across an expansive portfolio. Powerful Air Conditioning Technologies In the hotel’s quest to be low-voltage, the management team has employed what is believed to be one of the world’s first applications of Power-Over-Ethernet (PoE) to a large array of end points, to help achieve many of energy-efficiency and forward-thinking goals for the Sinclair’s desired level of technological ability. With PoE installed throughout the property, a variety of LG’s award-winning products will provide a low-voltage and energy-efficient solution for this forward-thinking partner. LG’s award-winning Multi V IV Heat Recovery Units were selected for their ability to provide individual room comfort for each space within the larger property. The Multi V IV also contributes to the building’s energy efficiency, high performance and flexibility in design and installation options. Installation versatility was considered to a key factor as the historic building was restricted in regard to lower ceilings as well as limited space for out-door equipment. AC Smart controller Local HVAC and Variable Refrigerant Flow (VRF) experts, Texas Air Systems, recommend the installation of a variety of indoor solutions that ensure a quiet conditioned space, including LG’s Art Cool Mirror and Ceiling Cassettes, to accommodate the tight ceiling area within guest rooms. The unit’s quiet operation supports a tranquil guest room environment and contributed to the decision behind their selection for this property. The technology works unnoticed, contributing to the comfort and experience of a guest’s stay. LG’s AC Smart controller allowed for seamless handling of the HVAC system for the management team. This innovative control solution for a variety of applications offers a single LG platform that drives both variable-refrigerant-flow technology and energy efficiency. Property managers can now easily manage set and monitor the building’s heating and cooling performance with ease. Variable Refrigerant Flow (VRF) technology The LG connected outdoor units with slim, space-saving features were installed on the exterior of the building Prior to installing LG’s Variable Refrigerant Flow (VRF) technology, the building relied on an old chiller system to condition the entire building. The old chiller required a great deal of space in the building’s lower level. After switching to VRF, the hotel was able to gain a great deal of usable floor space for the large lower level restaurant. In turn, the LG connected outdoor units with slim, space-saving features were installed on the exterior of the building. LG has created industry-leading VRF technology to minimizes efficiency losses, provide sustainable energy savings and offer some of the lowest life cycle costs of any system on the market today. For similar costs as a traditional system, The Sinclair now has a highly reliable, energy-efficient HVAC solution that delivers comfort and convenience for its occupants. Stunning OLED TVs and Displays “Creating an unforgettable experience for my guests is of the utmost importance as a developer, and I work with some of the most innovative and forward-thinking partners around the globe when developing my properties,” said Farukh Aslam, Chief Executive Officer, Sinclair Holdings. He adds, “I am very sold on LG’s technologies and the results are quite impressive, thanks to its amazing energy-efficiency and quietness, contributing to the tranquil atmosphere throughout the property.” With an eye toward implementing cutting-edge technology, the developer also incorporated a stunning array of LG OLED hospitality TVs into every guest room – the first hotel to have OLED TVs in every guest room. LG OLED technology is a high-end category of displays that deliver a picture with incredible color LG OLED technology LG OLED technology is a high-end category of displays that deliver a picture with incredible color, even from wide viewing angles. It uses self-lighting pixels that can be individually turned on and off for exact control of image brightness and quality, delivering infinite contrast ratios optimized for high-dynamic range content. In addition to the guest room displays, a number of other LG commercial displays are also featured throughout the property’s public spaces – including the lobby, restaurants and bars. “Thanks to our strong relationship with Sinclair’s owner and building managers, there are multiple products across an array of LG business units installed throughout the property,” said Donald Decker, Director of Owner Sales, LG Air Conditioning Technologies. High efficiency AC technologies Donald adds, “Aligning with a partner like The Sinclair on our shared goals to power the building of the future, allowed an ecosystem that connects our industry-leading air conditioning technologies and other LG products to create a comfortable, elevated experience for guests across the entire property.”

Amid concerns about the increasing scope of the coronavirus (COVID 19), International Institute of Ammonia Refrigeration (IIAR) has announced the cancellation of its 2020 IIAR Natural Refrigeration Conference & Heavy Equipment Expo, a major industry event focused on natural refrigerants in the industrial and commercial sectors. IIAR Conference cancelled IIAR joins a growing list of HVAC&R organizations worldwide that have cancelled trade gatherings over the coronavirus. The IIAR Conference had been scheduled to take place March 15-18 at the Rosen Shingle Rosen Shingle Creek Hotel and Convention Center in Orlando, Florida (U.S.). Last year’s conference in Phoenix, Arizona (U.S.) had over 1,700 in attendance, according to the IIAR website. IIAR joins a growing list of HVAC&R firms worldwide that have cancelled trade events over the coronavirus IIAR had indicated its intention this week to proceed with the event, but changed course on March 11 after the World Health Organization (WHO) declared that the coronavirus was a worldwide pandemic. “Given this significant announcement from the World Health Organization, we have made the difficult decision to cancel the conference this year,” said Dave Rule, President, IIAR in a message emailed to registered conference attendees. “The health and safety of the conference attendees remains our primary concern.” Coronavirus pandemic threat “We trust that all of you will understand this decision and support your IIAR organization as the Executive Committee and Board of Directors begins to deal with this dramatic event,” he added. IIAR’s Executive Committee had begun developing plans “to address appropriate measures moving forward,” said Rule. “Further information concerning the cancellation of the IIAR Conference will be available over the course of the next few weeks”, Rule said, adding, “We request your patience and support as the IIAR Staff and management deal with these issues.” Global HVACR events cancelled Elsewhere in the world, two other HVAC&R industry trade shows scheduled in March were canceled, Mostra Convegno Expocomfort (rescheduled to September 8-11) in Italy and HVAC&R Japan. HVACR Live, scheduled to take place April 20-22 in London, was postponed till the spring of 2021. In addition, the ARBS (Air Conditioning, Refrigeration Building Services) 2020 exhibition in Melbourne, Australia, scheduled for May 19‐21, has been postponed.

Air conditioning professionals attending this year's AHR Expo had the opportunity to preview Danfoss' extensive portfolio of rooftop components that unite to help OEMs tackle seasonal efficiency and refrigerant changes—including innovations like the Interlaced Micro Channel Heat Exchanger (iMCHE). Designers of rooftop units are facing a pair of environmental challenges: the US Department of Energy's 2023 energy efficiency standards requirement of a 15% increase in integrated energy efficiency ratio (IEER), and the introduction of regulations by a growing number of states to replace HFC refrigerants like R-410A with lower-GWP alternatives. Part-Load Efficiency And Switch Refrigerants At AHR Expo 2020, Danfoss showcased a substantial portfolio of components that solve these challenges by helping manufacturers improve part-load efficiency and switch refrigerants, often with minimal redesign costs, and shared with visitors the system-level benefits revealed in laboratory tests. Danfoss iMCHE enables several circuits to share the heat transfer area in a single coil Several of the innovations and solutions combine to give OEMs an immediate boost in part-load efficiency. Some of the components can achieve savings of more than 15% on their own, helping OEMs meet the more stringent 2023 IEER regulations. Heat-Transfer Efficiency The Danfoss iMCHE enables several circuits to share the heat transfer area in a single coil, improving part-load efficiency by more than 20%, maximizing heat-transfer efficiency, and reducing refrigerant charge in a compact shape which minimizes weight. The third-generation VZH variable-speed inverter scroll has a higher part-load performance and wider operating map than ever before. The scrolls range from 4 to 26 TR, which can be further expanded to 52 TR in a hybrid tandem, and, like all Danfoss inverter scrolls, now include Intermediate Discharge Valve (IDV) technology for maximum part-load efficiency. Compressor Control Logic The powerful new MCX15B2 and MCX20B2 controllers are ideal for use in rooftop units. As enhanced versions of the popular MCX-B-series units, they offer best-in-class connectivity and safety, along with new compressor control logic for industry-leading Danfoss VZH inverter scrolls, enabling system designers to get the biggest possible benefit from variable-speed compression in any conditions. Danfoss manifolds are designed to minimize OEMs’ system losses, and are assembled in Danfoss facilities Pre-assembled tandem and trio manifolds enable OEMs to improve their system’s seasonal efficiency while reducing complexity in the supply chain and manufacturing processes. Danfoss manifolds are designed to minimize OEMs’ system losses, and are assembled in Danfoss facilities using the highest quality manufacturing techniques to ensure reliability. They include multiple combinations in even and uneven tandems and trios, and hybrid tandem configurations—and all feature patented Organ Pipe technology for optimized oil management under part-load conditions. Multi-Refrigerant DSH Scrolls With more than half the US population living in a state included in the United States Climate Alliance, many manufacturers are working on two or more rooftop configurations in parallel—one using R-410A, and one using refrigerants with a GWP rating of 750 or less, such as R-452B, R-454B, or R-32. As there is no single, clear R-410A replacement, visitors to AHR Expo 2020 were able to discuss with Danfoss experts the ways to maximize refrigerant flexibility. Multi-refrigerant DSH scrolls are qualified for use with refrigerants R-454B, R-452B, R-410A, enabling multi-refrigerant drop-in support while minimizing inventory and redesign requirements. Like Danfoss VZH scrolls, they include IDV technology to improve IEER. Danfoss Colibri® Electric Expansion Valves DSH scrolls are just one part of Danfoss' extensive range of multi-refrigerant components qualified for use with low-GWP A2L refrigerants. For example, Danfoss Colibri® electric expansion valves are qualified for use with more than 30 refrigerants—including R-410A, R-32, R-452B, R-454B, and R-1234yf. This flexibility enables manufacturers to benefit from precise liquid injection in a light, easy-to-install format, without a need to redesign their system for each refrigerant. ETS Colibri will also benefit from its own power back module, the EKE2U, to be released later in 2020, to enhance system reliability in case of unplanned system shutdowns. Victor Marinich, Global Marketing Director—Air Conditioning at Danfoss, said: "The need to protect our environment means rooftop manufacturers are responding to a fast-moving regulatory landscape.The best part is, these components all work together perfectly. That means you can use them to create a big, cumulative impact on part-load efficiency, while also maximizing reliability."

At the 2020 IIAR Natural Refrigeration Expo on March 15–18, 2020, Danfoss will introduce three new innovations: the complete integrated evaporator control panel, semi-welded plate heat exchanger, and digital gas detector. These products are the newest, most advanced components from Danfoss' industrial refrigeration solutions, which blend reliable hardware with intuitive software to create customizable intelligent, energy efficient, and cost-effective systems. These components, along with the rest of Danfoss' broad industrial refrigeration portfolio will be on display and available for live demonstration at Booth 827. Danfoss’ advancements in innovative, custom integrated control solutions enable stronger, more intelligent distributed and central systems controls for industrial refrigeration systems. intelligent control and automation These technologies increase energy efficiency, ensure food safety, and help refrigeration systems transition to alternative, climate-friendly refrigerants. Available for new or retrofit projects, Danfoss' complete integrated evaporator control panels are factory-programmed and configured to the user's specific application and support multiple defrost methods, all while controlling flooded and DX evaporators. Its ammonia gas detection automatically closes hot gas and liquid feed valves and turns off evaporator fans. Lastly, the panel includes an evaporator microprocessor controller with either a door- or remote-mounted display and is packaged in a custom enclosure specific to its appropriate environment. Danfoss General Manager Art Marshall will discuss further developments in distributed and central systems control technologies during the company's Technomercial on Tuesday, March 17 from 12:00 to 12:30 pm. semi-welded plate heat exchangers The risk of contamination is reduced due to the barrier that will drain potential leaks outside the plate pack Danfoss is excited to introduce the new SW19-59 range of semi-welded plate heat exchangers, which are specifically designed, crafted, and tested to fit ammonia-based industrial refrigeration applications. The SW19-59 range offers outstanding thermal performance due to its optimized plate geometry that supports high turbulent flow, enabling a compact design and lower charge. Operational safety is essential in ammonia applications, so the company engineered a new gasket system to ensure high gasket stability and optimal plate alignment, enabling fast and easy installation, service, and maintenance while preventing gasket-blow out. Furthermore, the risk of contamination is reduced due to the glue-free, double-gasket barrier that will drain potential leaks outside the plate pack. Next generation gas detection Danfoss' digital gas detectors and sensors are precalibrated to match specific refrigerants, applications, and safety requirements, ensuring a safe and regulation-compliant system. With a comprehensive set of safety features, basic to heavy duty Danfoss digital gas detector models offer improved accuracy, simplified operator handling, automatic self-diagnostics, password-protected alarms, and a smart calibration process that rejects sensors with low life-expectancy. Collectively, these features minimize risks based on system settings, calibration, and service errors for continuous safety. For the first time ever, the digital gas detectors will be on display in a harsh weather habitat to demonstrate their durability and environmentally-resistant performance.

With sustainability, energy efficiency and flexibility forming the basis of modern HVACR solutions, Eurovent Middle East announces the next three events under its ‘HVACR Leadership Workshop’ banner, namely Building Retrofits, Reducing the Energy Bill: Cold Storage and Data Centre Cooling, taking place in Dubai and Abu Dhabi in the coming months. Building Retrofit Building Retrofit will happen on 4 March 2020, 18:00 to 21:00h at the Falcon Ballroom, Le Meridien Dubai Hotel and Conference Centre. Retrofitting of HVACR systems have proven to be cost-effective alternatives to improve reliability, energy efficiency and flexibility of the systems to the benefit of the building owner through cost savings, Return-On-Investment (ROI) and improved comfort for the building occupants. The seminars aim to deliver an understanding of the principles behind the technologies which can be utilized to achieve these benefits. Reducing the Energy Bill: Cold Storage Reducing the Energy Bill: Cold Storage will happen on 9 March 2020, 13:00 to 16:00h at the Cold Chain Pavilion, Abu Dhabi National Exhibition Centre. This workshop is organized as a side event to the first Cold Chain Middle East Expo. In a region such as the GCC where most fresh food items are imported, it is of vital importance to ensure that the food cold chain remains uncompromised in a sustainable, cost-effective manner to the benefit of both stakeholders and consumers. Industry experts will provide insight on technologies and strategies to reduce energy consumption in the food cold chain. Effective Data Centre Cooling Strategies Effective Data Centre Cooling Strategies will happen on 13 April 2020, 8:45 to 12:00h at the Dubai World Trade Centre. In cooperation with the Building Industry Consulting Service International (BICSI), this workshop forms part of a Pre-Event Masterclass to the BICSI EMEA Conference and Exhibition. The seminars aim to deliver an understanding of the technology behind data centers to enable exact specifications and mechanisms for increasing reliability and improving energy efficiency which are key aspects in effective Data Centre Cooling strategies. 'HVACR Leadership Workshops' is a seminar series by Eurovent Middle East, tailor-made for engineering and MEP consultants, investors and planners in the UAE, with the core aim of informing them about standards and industry recommendations in the field of ventilation, air conditioning, and refrigeration. The non-commercial, free-of-charge seminars are spread across multiple workshops.

Professionals from across HVACR descended upon the Orange County Convention Center in Orlando, Florida, February 3-5 for the 2020 AHR Expo. Attendees and exhibitors engaged in three full days of innovation and learning and took an exciting look into the future of HVACR. Spread across 506,090 sq. ft., exhibitors on the Show floor delivered new and never-before seen products and tech, live demonstrations, networking opportunities and a revitalized energy for the future of the industry. In every education session, council talk, podcast broadcast, exhibitor event and long walk across the Show floor, one thing was abundantly clear —the HVACR revolution has arrived in full force. alive and thriving It is truly an exciting time to be a part of the HVACR community and, if 2020 is any indication, it is just getting started" “The energy on the Show floor this year was hard to miss. From corner to corner, in every booth, education session, event program, everywhere, it’s clear that this industry is alive and thriving,” said Mark Stevens, Show Manager. "Leading in to this Show we knew there were some big changes happening across the industry and we saw that reflected in Orlando. It is truly an exciting time to be a part of the HVACR community and, if 2020 is any indication, it is just getting started.” The 2020 Show welcomed over 50,000 attendees, 1,900+ exhibiting companies —577 of which were international as well as 295 who were first time exhibitors. Victor Grasso (@apprenticegrasso19 on Instagram), an HVAC Service Technician from New Jersey says of his first AHR Expo, “The videos of this Show online don’t do it justice. When you’re here you get to pick up the tool and feel how it actually works. It really assures me that if I purchase the tool in the future, I’ll know that I’m getting the right tool for the job.” integrated and automated products “For a young person like me who is new to the trade, the Show introduced me to a whole other aspect of the industry. I found so many products and companies I would have never known existed. This definitely won’t be my last Show— I’ll be here for Chicago, Vegas, I’ll be here for life.” Our booth this year included fully integrated and automated products from our subsidiaries" “We have received incredible traffic at the Show this year. We’re excited to be here!” said Joe Oberle, Vice President of Corporate Development for Delta Electronics. “Our booth this year included fully integrated and automated products from our subsidiaries Delta Controls, LOYTEC, VIVOTEK and Amerlux, as well as Delta Electronics’ Industrial Automation and Fan business groups, under the theme ‘Smarter Buildings, Smarter Cities.’” The 2020 Education Program The 2020 Show featured more than 200 sessions in the Education Program. This year featured new sessions inspired by trends happening currently across HVACR, as well as those forecasted for the near future. Below is a summary of some of the topics discussed throughout the Show: Private Equity 101: What HVACR Founders Need to Know This session provided insight into private equity at a basic level understanding. Private equity is currently investing millions into small-to-medium sized founder-led HVAC companies. A panel of investors discussed the varying types of investor opportunities, how a company is valued and how the partnership process typically works. Attendees were left with an understanding of the options available through partnership in order to make decisions that best fit their business. Skilled Labor! Overcome the Shortage to Protect Your Business This session discussed the current state of the industry and the skilled labor shortage. Eighty-two percent (82%) of CEOs report that the skilled labor shortage is a significant business issue. Melissa Boutwell, President at Automation Strategy and Performance, presented attendees with a discussion of why this is happening, how we can prepare as an industry and what some organizations are currently doing to secure current and future market positions.   state-of-the-art controls systems Building for a Climate Emergency Ken Sinclair of AutomationBuildings.com led a discussion titled Building for a Climate Emergency. In it, he discussed the declaration of a “Climate Emergency” by over 400 global cities and how it relates to an enormous opportunity for the automation industry as local governments gear up to tackle this challenge. With recent legislation from municipal governments targeting residential and commercial buildings, both new and existing, with aggressive greenhouse gas (GHG) emissions targets, the widespread deployment of state-of-the-art controls systems will be essential to achieving these targets.  I’ve found the educational sessions to be extremely beneficial for my professional growth" “This is my first time attending the show and I’ve found the educational sessions to be extremely beneficial for my professional growth,” said Aaron Byers, Product Engineer. “As a young engineer just starting out in the industry, it’s an outstanding place for me to build my professional network, gain input on what’s going on in the industry, and learn from specialists in my field.  I’ll definitely be attending Chicago in 2021!” Highlights of the Council Talks 2020 was the first year the Show hosted education sessions led by members of the AHR Expo Expert Council. The Council is a collaboration of HVACR experts and thought leaders launched by the AHR Expo in 2019 to educate and stimulate discussion concerning the biggest issues impacting the industry. Their sessions covered a wide range of industry topics addressing what’s next for HVACR professionals in the coming year. Highlights included:   Obstacles and Opportunities for HVACR in the Next Decade Panel speakers in this session took an in-depth look at what obstacles and opportunities lie ahead for the next decade of HVACR. Speakers shared different perspectives on speeding up time to value creation, increased focus on well-being and productivity, and the skill-shortage gap in the industry. Panel moderator Nicolas Waern, the Nordic “Building Whisperer,” also provided insight on HVACR in Europe, specifically the Nordics and Sweden.  effects mitigating climate change 2020 - Pivoting Towards a Post Carbon World and Impacts to the HVAC Industry This session covered the pivotal effects mitigating climate change has made to the industry and how the 2020 roadmap will look going forward. As more progressive cities and outspoken younger generations across the world continue to focus on climate change, HVACR is adapting for a 2050 carbon neutral world that’s 1.5 degrees Celsius warmer than pre-industrial times, and outlined how 2020 marks a significant year in this adaptation. This session was led by Luke Leung, PE, LEED Fellow and Director of Sustainable Engineering at Skidmore, Owings and Merrill LLP. Update on Refrigerants: Past, Present and Future This session, led by Eckhard Groll, William E. and Florence E. Perry Head of Mechanical Engineering and Reilly Professor of Mechanical Engineering at Purdue College of Engineering, provided a detailed review of current and past refrigeration technology and how it can inform refrigerant technologies of the future. Due to the phase-out of ozone-depleting CFC and HCFC refrigerants, refrigeration and air conditioning sciences have been in a state of flux, and environmental concerns have sparked industrywide interest in using substances that are naturally occurring in the biosphere as refrigerants. Many natural working fluids were commonly used in refrigeration in the late 1800’s Many of these natural working fluids were commonly used in refrigeration technology in the late 1800’s, and this session emphasized that when looking at the refrigerants of the future, it is essential to understand which substances have been used in the past. key aspect of business management Applying Emotional Intelligence (EQ) to Strengthen Your Business Model and Customer Relationships Karine Leblanc led a discussion of emotional intelligence and how it has emerged as a key aspect of business management and employee relations. This session explained the importance of EQ, covering key concepts such as connecting with others by discovering common ground, using simple communication, capturing interests, inspiring others and staying authentic in relationships. Attendees left this session with an understanding of how EQ can affect relationships across company, distribution and sales channels. “It’s all about connection and being in the room. If you don’t show up, you will not meet people, you will not learn and you cannot exchange expertise with people that are working in either the same or different role as you,” said Karine Leblanc, Sales Engineer with US Air Conditioning Distributors and founding member of the AHR Expo Expert Council.   commitment to innovation It was an honor to win Product of the Year for our Danfoss CALM at the AHR Expo" The 2020 Product of the Year honor went to Danfoss for the Danfoss CO2 Adaptive Liquid Management Solution. Danfoss was also recognized as an Innovation Awards winner for the Cooling, Green Building and Refrigeration categories. Winners were selected in a total of 10 industry categories along with an overall Product of the Year winner and honored in a ceremony hosted during the AHR Expo. “It was an honor to win Product of the Year for our Danfoss CO2 Adaptive Liquid Management (CALM) at the AHR Expo in Orlando considering all of the other category winners,” said Peter Dee, Sales Director Food Retail, North America at Danfoss. “It exemplifies the Danfoss culture, people, and commitment to innovation. We continue to strive through innovation to help our customers and the industry meet their sustainability requirements and it is an honor to be recognized by the industry for these achievements.” developing a phenomenal Product The Innovation Awards received the most entries ever this year since the program began 17 years ago. What’s more, the innovation featured by the winners, finalists and entrants is a true indication that the industry is in a season of change. “The Innovation Awards is always an exciting time for us at the Show because we get to pause and give recognition to those in the industry who are challenging themselves to make HVACR better,” said Stevens. This year really delivered, not only in the awards ceremony but also out on the Show floor" “This year really delivered, not only in the awards ceremony but also out on the Show floor. We congratulate all our winners —and Danfoss for developing a phenomenal Product of the Year with the CO2 Adaptive Liquid Management Solution— and challenge everyone in the industry to keep innovating, taking risks and working to better the industry.” “Additionally, the Innovation Awards gives us the opportunity to leave a mark on the communities we visit through the donation of entry fees,” continued Stevens. “This year we were fortunate to give back the largest donation ever —$26,300 — to the Orange County Police Athletic League (P.A.L.) serving the Orlando/Apopka area. We are delighted to be able to support the strong youth program they have developed.” Podcast Pavilion For the first time ever, the AHR Expo introduced the Podcast Pavilion, hosting some of the industry’s most prominent podcasters*. This year Bryan Orr of HVAC School (@hvacschool on Instagram); The HVAC Jerks (@thehvacjerks on Instagram); Tersh Blissett with Service Business Mastery (@tershblissett on Instagram); Mike Mayberry, the HVAC Refer Guy (@hvac_refer_guy on Instagram); Matt Nelson with HVAC 360 (@hvac360 on Instagram); and Gil Cavey of HVAC Uncensored (@hvacuncensored on Instagram) welcomed guests in two podcast stations all three days of the Show. As a pilot year for the AHR Expo, the Podcast Pavilion quickly became an attendee favorite As a pilot year for the AHR Expo, the Podcast Pavilion quickly became an attendee favorite. Guests included representatives from endorsing organizations, such as Danielle Putnam and Colleen Keyworth from Women in HVACR and Stephen Yurek, AHRI President, as well as industry experts and personalities like HVAC YouTuber AK Greaves (@akhvac on Instagram) and Richard Trethewey, from the PBS show This Old House. staying involved and relevant “When I heard that AHR Expo was going to include us in a podcast pavilion at the 2020 Show I was really excited. The reality far exceeded all of my expectations,” said Bryan Orr of HVAC School. “The space was a great way for us to share and connect and it shows a real commitment by AHR to staying involved and relevant in the new media age. Well done!” If the 2020 AHR Expo is any indication of where HVACR is headed, this industry is on the path to exciting things" The HVAC Jerks added, “The Podcast Pavilion that AHR Expo created this year was a huge success!  We had such a positive response from our existing fans that came out to see us, and so many new ones who found us at the Show. The HVAC Jerks would like to thank the AHR Expo for their drive to stay on the cutting edge of the HVAC industry. See you in Chicago!” Brent Ridley with Tool Pros Podcast (@toolprospodcast on Instagram) was also slated to participate but was unable to attend due to injury. Product and Technology Presentations The 2020 Show also featured more 100 Product and Technology presentations given by exhibitors. The twenty-minute presentations were spread out over the three days and drew crowds into three theaters just off the exhibitor floor. Much like the Innovation Awards program, the products and technologies featured showcased real progress in HVACR and gave a preview to some exciting things ahead for HVACR. Between the exhibitor booths, education sessions and product and technology presentations, this year presented a number of changes and immense growth within the HVACR industry. The trends exhibited at this year’s Show point towards an equally successful year for the 2021 AHR Expo. “If the 2020 AHR Expo is any indication of where HVACR is headed, this industry is on the path to exciting things,” concluded Stevens. “We look forward to following along as we head into the 2021 Show in Chicago!”