2LA flammable refrigerants

Johnson Controls, the pioneer for smart, healthy and sustainable buildings and architect of OpenBlue connected solutions, is expanding its Tyco DS Dry Sprinkler product family to include the DS-8 8.0K (K 115) Dry Pendent Sprinkler. The enhanced features of the DS-8 Sprinkler make it ideal for protecting commercial freezers and outdoor spaces like balconies, breezeways, loading docks and parking garages. The DS-8 Dry Sprinkler provides more flexibility for designers and offers the possibility for lower design pressure compared to other dry sprinklers. Unique building projects The DS-8 is available in both quick response and standard response and is cULus listed It connects seamlessly with the entire Tyco DS product portfolio, including the DSB-2 Dry Sprinkler Boot, to provide a single-source solution and ease of installation. The DS-8 is available in both quick response and standard response and is cULus listed. “With the addition of the DS-8, the Tyco DS portfolio represents the ultimate in dry sprinklers for customers, both in function and finish,” said Bob Cordell, global product manager, Johnson Controls. “The complete DS line supports our goal of enhancing building safety and increasing occupant satisfaction through innovative fire protection technology.” The DS-8 Dry Pendent Sprinkler features a 3 mm or 5 mm thermo sensitive glass bulb that can be used in cold environments, specifically in sprinkler systems that are exposed to freezing temperatures. With a variety of escutcheons (recessed, deep, standard or none), escutcheon finishes (including stainless steel) and custom piping lengths available, the DS-8 provides end users with the increased design flexibility and installation options to meet customers’ unique building project needs.

Armstrong Fluid Technology announces that Wi-Fi Connectivity Kits will be provided at no extra cost with all new orders of Design Envelope pumps where the Pump Manager subscription service is also purchased. “Adding Pump Manager to a Design Envelope pump installation helps to support safe distancing in the workplace during the COVID-19 pandemic.” said Tunji Asiwaju, Global Manager, Cloud Services. Remote performance tracking “To make the connection process easier, we’re now adding the Connectivity Kit to new Pump Manager orders as a way to help customers connect pumps to our Pump Manager service via the internet. With the Connectivity Kit and Pump Manager, customers get all the benefits and added safety of remote performance tracking, reports and alerts, without having to use an existing internet connection or pay for a new data plan.” The Connectivity Kit allows intelligent Design Envelope pumps to be easily connected Consisting of a router and built-in SIM card, plus a training video, the Connectivity Kit allows intelligent Design Envelope pumps to be easily connected, enabling the remote performance tracking capabilities of Pump Manager. Remote asset management Pump Manager is a highly secure, IoT-enabled remote asset management and analytics service. Pump performance information is viewable from any location using a mobile device. Pump Manager provides real-time trending and analysis to ensure optimum performance. It identifies issues and sends alerts to experts who have the right skills and the right parts to maximize asset availability. The service also includes built-in asset management capabilities to enable complete asset lifecycle management. While helping to manage the energy performance of the pump, Pump Manager also provides system-level insights as a baseline for future commissioning or upgrades. “We want to make it as easy as possible for HVAC professionals to benefit from remote performance tracking, especially during these difficult times,” Asiwaju concluded.

Nidec Leroy-Somer (Nidec Leroy-Somer Holding), the world specialist with a wealth of experience in drive solutions for industrial refrigeration, has for more than 40 years provided refrigeration professionals with its state-of-the-art and energy efficient motors, and speed drives to effectively enhance productivity of industrial refrigeration applications. IE5 synchronous PM motors Nidec Leroy-Somer’s latest development, the Dyneo+ range of IE5 synchronous reluctance permanent magnet (PM) motors, with rare earth free rotor, offer multiple advantages for driving screw compressors, piston compressors, circulation pumps and condensers, be it in terms of energy efficiency, performance or reliability. Companies that use industrial refrigeration equipment have long been aware of the impact that the power consumption of a refrigeration installation can have on both the energy bills and on the environment as a whole. Energy-saving electric motors The cold compressor, at the heart of the system, remains the most energy-hungry element The cold compressor, at the heart of the system, remains the most energy-hungry element, and can represent up to 80% of total power consumption. Electric motors, which are ubiquitous in the cold chain, constitute the main source of potential energy savings. Thanks to its expertise in the design and manufacture of industrial drive systems, Nidec Leroy-Somer offers a wide range of drive solutions at fixed or variable speed, providing significant energy savings on the refrigeration market. Dyneo+ synchronous reluctance PM motor In addition to these complete and well-established ranges for this sector, Nidec Leroy-Somer has just launched its new Dyneo+ synchronous reluctance PM motor, ranging from 11 to 500 kW, for speeds of up to 4500 rpm. Specially designed for variable speed, this motor offers an economic and ecological solution for the requirements of industrial refrigeration. To address the energy transition challenges, the European Parliament recently voted, on 8 October 2020, in favor of a new ambitious climate law targeting 60% reduction of greenhouse gas emissions by 2030, and climate neutrality by 2040. European Commission Regulation (EU) 2019/1781 As part of this approach, the latest Commission Regulation (EU) 2019/1781, applicable to electric motors and variable speed drives, defines and schedules increasingly stringent efficiency levels for machines sold in the European market. Every industry  and in particular, the most energy-intensive ones are affected by these developments, designed to help protect the environment, not least considering that the cost of electricity is likely to climb significantly in the years to come. IE5 Ultra-Premium efficiency level With its IE5 Ultra-Premium efficiency level, Dyneo+ has all it takes to rise to this energy challenge With its IE5 Ultra-Premium efficiency level, Dyneo+ from Nidec Leroy-Somer has all it takes to rise to this energy challenge, offering as it does substantive energy savings in real conditions of use over the course of the cycle, at variable speed and load, as is typical with industrial refrigeration, where needs fluctuate considerably according to season and production level. Thanks to its energy performance, the Dyneo+ solution makes it possible to significantly increase the COP (‘Coefficient of Performance’, expressed by the ratio between refrigeration capacity produced and power consumption) of a refrigeration unit. As well as helping to reduce the carbon footprint, the range offers a TCO (Total Cost of Ownership) among the lowest on the market, and for rapid return on investment, generally in less than one year. Optimization of the number of compressors Dyneo+ motors are designed to operate exclusively with a variable frequency drive, allowing them to adapt to the speed of the machine being run and improve its performance when operating in over speed. This provides the benefit of additional refrigeration capacity for a given device, thereby avoiding having to start up another compressor during a production peak. Moreover, the Dyneo+ solution enables optimization of the number of compressors for a given installation. Delivering precise speed and torque control in sensorless mode, it guarantees constant torque over extensive speed ranges, with no derating or forced ventilation. Based on magnetic synchronous reluctance technology Nidec Leroy-Somer has developed the Dyneo+ range based on the mechanical platform of its IMfinity induction motors, known for their robustness and reliability. The use of proven components makes these new motors extremely robust and long-lived by design, thereby limiting the risk of refrigeration system failure. What is more, Dyneo+ has been designed for ease of installation, simple setup and easy maintenance. Generating low rotor losses, the magnetic synchronous reluctance technology reduces maintenance costs Generating low rotor losses, the magnetic synchronous reluctance technology reduces maintenance costs, in particular by extending the lubrication intervals. Whether compact or IEC interchangeable, with aluminum or cast-iron housing, or in IP55 or IP23 version, these motors are as easy to fit in new machines as they are to retrofit in existing installations as part of an energy optimization project. Connected to Systemiz interactive app Dyneo+ is connected to the Systemiz interactive application, which provides a wide variety of digital services, including instantaneous access to all the product literature, and easy and intuitive drive setup by simply scanning the QR code on the nameplate. With its ‘Made in Europe’ and low carbon footprint credentials, the Dyneo+ motor is eligible for Energy Savings Certificates, also known as White Certificates, generating government aid through the energy savings made. This makes for easy financing, meaning considerably faster return on investment, on top of the accrued energy savings Optimized productivity of industrial refrigeration Environmental compliance, energy performance and top-notch reliability are some of the key features that ensure Dyneo+ motors represent a drive solution that are perfectly suited to the optimized productivity needs of industrial refrigeration processes.

The Federation of German Heating Industry (BDH) has expanded its organizational structure to include the new Energy Management Systems (EMS) department. On the agenda is the support of technological and market-relevant developments, as well as the political framework conditions in this topic area. “The expansion reflects the dynamic growth of networked systems, especially in single and two-family houses, but also in neighborhood solutions. The BDH member companies have been intensively involved in these areas for a number of years,” said BDH General Manager Andreas Lücke. Energy Management Systems department The EMS department is a specialist department that deals with the energetic networking of energy producers, storage, and consumers. The topic is the linking of systems both inside the building and with the energy system outside the building. One focus will be on the discussion of use cases for scenarios of energetic networking. In our energy system, the networking of products right into the building is playing an increasingly important role" “In our energy system, the networking of products right into the building is playing an increasingly important role. This creates new interfaces between products from very different domains. Therefore, the BDH will organize a manufacturer and cross-sector discussion,” emphasizes the Head of the Specialist Department at BDH, Dieter Kehren. The result will be industry requirements for energy networking, which will help to use the contribution made by networked buildings to the energy transition.    Digitization of the building sector The digitization of the building sector plays a central role in achieving ambitious climate protection goals. There is great potential here that has not yet been exhausted. The digitally optimized operation of all energetically relevant generators and consumers in the building can directly achieve CO2 reductions and energy savings. In addition, decentralized structures and system-friendly optimized energy management help to compensate for peak loads and reduce the cost of expanding power grids and generating plants. With a view to increasing e-mobility and the advancing market penetration of heat pumps, such solutions are becoming increasingly important.

BioZone Scientific's residential, commercial, and healthcare products were independently tested for effectiveness against SARS-CoV-2 by a third-party lab. In the test report titled, ‘SARS-CoV-2 Surrogate Inactivation by Ultraviolet Disinfection System from BioZone Scientific,’ the systems repeatedly delivered greater than 5-log inactivation (>99.999%) of the SARS-CoV-2 virus in less than one second of exposure to BioZone Scientific ultraviolet disinfection systems. The testing was conducted by BCS Laboratories, an ISO/IEC 17025 certified Florida, USA-based lab which is also accredited by the US Centers for Disease Control, US Environmental Protection Agency, US Department of Agriculture, and Florida Department of Health. UV light solutions The test was designed to model exposure time comparative to inactivating the SARS-CoV-2 virus in the moving airstream within HVAC systems. A manufacturer in HVAC UV light solutions for the disinfection of air and surfaces, BioZone Scientific technology has been used by thousands of people around the world for safe disinfection of homes, restrooms, transport, and businesses. This study joins others, including those published in the Journal of Clinical Virology, that demonstrate that BioZone Scientific's advanced ultraviolet disinfection systems are effective at inactivating viruses and other infectious diseases. Biological defense systems These accredited test results are the latest in a long line of groundbreaking and independently verified test programs" Paul Morris, BioZone Scientific's Senior Vice President for Global Business Development, stated, "This is more welcome evidence that BioZone Scientific's long experience of delivering innovative and effective Biological Defense systems for our clients is based on several critical philosophies - innovation, responsiveness to our clients' needs, and sound, certified, scientific data.” “These accredited test results are the latest in a long line of groundbreaking and independently verified test programs that have been undertaken by BioZone Scientific, including research on the effectiveness of our technology against viruses by the French Centre for National Virology Research and papers published in the Journal of Clinical Virology. This long term and consistent approach gives BioZone Scientific's partners the confidence that they are working with technology that is always ahead of the field in terms of reliability, quality, and effectiveness. We believe this approach is at the center of our success, and the success of our clients." Ultraviolet disinfection systems Ari Ahola, CEO of BioZone Scientific, stated, "These third-party test results show that BioZone Scientific systems are essential in delivering virus-free environments and are critical components of return to work protocols. In less than a second, BioZone solutions are capable of disinfection rates almost below the levels of detection.” “We're immensely proud of these findings, which are well in line with other scientific tests of BioZone Scientific technologies. Our mission is to limit the spread of COVID-19 and help people to return to work safely." BioZone Scientific is a pioneer in ultraviolet disinfection systems and has been at the forefront of UV technology for decades. It has a proven track record of innovation in disinfection technologies, which are designed, manufactured, and installed in line with the highest safety standards.

Goettl Air Conditioning and Plumbing, a provider of HVAC and plumbing services in the Southwest part of the country, has promoted its Chief Financial Officer (CFO) Kim Miramontes to Chief Operations Officer (COO). Miramontes’ experience will be a beneficial asset to Goettl’s predominately female executive team, a unique differentiator in the HVAC and plumbing industry. “Kim’s skills far outweigh those of seasoned executives I’ve have worked with in the past,” said Ken Goodrich, CEO of Goettl Air Conditioning and Plumbing. Customer engagement systems “She understands operations, sales and customer service in a way that few executives hope to and has a proven track record of maximizing the growth potential of a range of business. She’s leading an already successful team at the perfect time to spearhead operational expansion.” Miramontes is charged with growing the efforts to care about the customer experience and fostering a team of salespeople who are motivated by what inspires them. In this role, she will continue to define the Goettl point of difference and improve upon existing customer engagement systems.  Several expansion opportunities Miramontes joined the Goettl executive leadership team at their Las Vegas headquarters in May of 2019 Miramontes joined the Goettl executive leadership team at their Las Vegas headquarters in May of 2019. Since then, Miramontes has successfully exceeded in her role as CFO and worked closely with other Goettl executives to grow and expand the company into other markets. Since she came on board, Miramontes financially supervised several expansion opportunities for Goettl including acquisitions in Simi Valley, California and San Antonio, Texas. Miramontes has vast experience in financial and operational leadership with some of the gaming and resort brands including Wyndham, MGM Grand and SHFL Entertainment, a $300-million multi-national gaming supplier. As an entrepreneur and business owner, Miramontes has driven growth in the positions she has attained throughout her career. Remarkable growth trajectory “Goettl has grown with remarkable trajectory under Kim’s financial guidance. She is a great fit for our team as she continues to evolve and elevate our methodologies and services,” said Goodrich. “I look forward to collaborating with Kim in her new role as she continues to push our team to do things the right way, not the easy.” Miramontes earned her MBA from the University of Nevada Las Vegas as well as Bachelor of Science degrees in Business Administration and Finance from UNLV. In addition, Miramontes is an Associate Certified Coach from the International Coach Federation and a Certified Professional Coach from the Institute for Professional Excellence in Coaching. As an active member of the Las Vegas community, Miramontes continues to volunteer with the UNLV Alumni Association, Nevada Women’s Philanthropy group and the National Association of Women Business Owners (NAWBO) in Southern Nevada.

The past six months have been busy for those in HVAC as offices are updated and made safe for people to return. In addition to the various standard checks that need to be carried out, more care is being taken in relation to air movement and filtration to prevent the spread of disease. There is evidence that at least some of the COVID-19 virus can remain suspended in the air and infectious for up to 3 hours. While this is not the main form of transmission, it is vitally important, especially as we are seeing a second increase in infections, that all measures are taken to prevent the spread of the disease. Sick building syndrome In addition to the fundamental elements of HVAC in public buildings, the sector should be looking to the future of technological use; whether COVID-19 is completely wiped out or lingers in the population, we may be at risk of more new diseases in the future. Although maintenance is one of the least visible of building services, it has long played an important role in ensuring the health of buildings. Decades ago, the concept of sick building syndrome was first introduced, showing quite how important our environment is to health. Now, we are being reminded of this on a daily basis in ways that have never been under such scrutiny. We are suddenly hyperaware of what we have touched and who else is breathing our air. In many ways, this new awareness of the unseen is a boon for the sector that has so long been behind-the-scenes, but it also puts it to the test. Potentially stagnant pockets There are numerous recommendations from experts on how to increase safety Governmental guidelines have not specifically required that ventilation and air conditioning be increased in the workplace. Yet, there are numerous recommendations from experts on how to increase safety. At the low-tech end of the spectrum, the use of ceiling and table fans to increase movement in potentially stagnant pockets of air has been suggested. At the other end, technologies that have long been growing in popularity, such as remote monitoring, will really come into their own in the coming months. A particular challenge for the industry as workers return to the office under social distancing guidelines will be accessing certain areas for maintenance. For as long as the virus remains in the population, risk assessments for work will be more complex and non-essential jobs will likely be put on hold where possible. Optical remote sensors Intelligent technology and monitoring systems are already driving the market and will play a role in minimizing contact with others when visiting a site. There is already a great range of tools available: wired sensors, wireless sensors, and optical remote sensors. These allow organizations to monitor vibration, temperature, acoustics, and the power of numerous assets remotely and in real-time. Any issues can be addressed as soon as they arise, minimizing the cost and time that an engineer may need to be in the building. Installing these technologies while buildings are still unoccupied or only partially occupied will also reduce the risk of exposure of engineers to the virus and will improve the efficiency and prolong the life of important assets. Whether a second lockdown takes place or not, these tools will protect building services. Motion-Activated air conditioning Other sensor-based features such as motion-activated air conditioning also have great potential Other sensor-based features such as motion-activated air conditioning also have great potential. These can manage the new hygiene anxiety which pervades public places at the moment. In the longer term, they can be a means of building sustainability practices into the workplace, using power only when needed. Internet of Things (IoT) features such as occupancy sensors have long been growing in popularity to create buildings which are more energy-efficient and promote productivity. Many of these features are demonstrating added value during the pandemic. Occupancy sensors, for example, can be used to ensure that buildings do not exceed safe numbers for social distancing. HVAC systems will be integrated ever further into the IoT approach. Some features of virus reduction, however, have posed a challenge for systems. Air conditioning systems Air conditioning systems, for example, can best reduce the risk of viral transmission through increasing the amount of air which is brought in from the outside into the systems. This will reduce the amount of recycled air but will also increase the temperature fluctuations within the buildings. Other recommendations have included reviewing ventilation strategies, increasing ventilation operating times, deep cleaning filters, and replacing filters more often. Cutting corners on anything which reduces the risk of virus spread will only be a greater loss to the client All of these can potentially see an increase in time and cost required by the client at a time where many companies have been stretched financially. Cutting corners on anything which reduces the risk of virus spread will only be a greater loss to the client in the long run if their employees lose time to illness but it still may be a temptation. Strong working partnership FM providers must work closely with clients to understand their individual fears and needs in such turbulent times. For Anabas, we believe demonstrating expertise and experience is a means of reassuring organizations that they are in safe hands. The future of the pandemic is still unpredictable. While its elimination is hopeful, it is still well worth the investment for many organizations to install the tools which minimize the risk of infection of COVID-19 - or any future infections. Clients are looking for certainty in an uncertain world and data-driven insights and real-time monitoring are ideal ways to provide this. However, the reassurance that comes with a strong working partnership will also be more important than ever. Communicating developments and what they mean for the client, as well as assuring them their priorities are understood can set a provider apart.

Sustainability and environmental impact are core issues of the HVAC market in 2020 or any year. During the last year, HVACinformed.com has addressed multiple facets of sustainability in some of our most popular articles. This retrospective will highlight some of the sustainability articles published during 2020 at HVACInformed.com. An HVACInformed.com Expert Panel Roundtable commented on various aspects of sustainability, including the responsibility of HVAC manufacturers to develop more sustainable, energy-efficient products that can reduce a building’s reliance on fossil fuels. Energy consumption pattern Honeywell has launched a platform that incorporates newer technology. Combining self-learning algorithms with building automation, Honeywell Forge Energy Optimization is a cloud-based system that analyzes a building’s energy consumption pattern and adjusts its settings. Heat networks, or district heating, are becoming an ever-greater part of the industry’s involvement Pete Mills of Bosch Commercial & Industrial outlines how cities are using ‘heat networks’ to achieve carbon emission targets in the United Kingdom. Heat networks, or district heating, are becoming an ever-greater part of the industry’s involvement in larger-scale schemes. The ability to help the decarbonization of heat both now and in the future has made them an attractive solution to the new-build sector, as well as those undergoing deep renovation works. Centralized heat generator Generally, heat networks are defined as a system of supply pipes with a centralized heat generator (Energy Center) that serves multiple domestic or non-domestic dwellings. These are usually in different buildings, but sometimes within a single large building like an apartment block or a university campus. Some U.S. cities are taking the lead to make building performance standards mandatory, thus providing additional incentive for customers to invest in new, more efficient and climate-friendly HVAC technologies. New York City has deployed its Carbon Mobilization Act, which will cut six million tons of CO2 annually by 2020. Washington D.C. adopted the first Building Energy Performance Standard, which will reduce energy use in buildings by more than 20%, thereby lowering carbon dioxide emissions by a million tons annually. Improving environmental performance Newer buildings tend to be designed to be ‘green’, but what about older existing buildings, which still represent the largest share of environmental impact? There is more work to be done in the retrofit sector; and improving environmental performance of older buildings often involves ‘deep retrofits’ that are costly and impact multiple factors inside a building. In the COVID-19 era, there is also growing concern about needs such as circulating outside air, increasing humidity, and improving filtration systems even as older buildings seek to become greener. The consistent theme is a need to work toward better-designed, more energy efficient and healthier buildings The consistent theme is a need to work toward better-designed, more energy efficient and healthier buildings. The California Air Resources Board (CARB) is moving forward with rulemaking that sets limits and deadlines to decrease the use of refrigerants with global warming potential (GWP) in the commercial refrigeration market and in the residential and commercial stationary air conditioning equipment markets. Air conditioning systems California regulations are widely expected to influence the direction of other states seeking to regulate GWP of refrigerants. The addition of biodiesel lowers the carbon content (and thus the environmental impact) of heating oil. The U.S. Environmental Protection Agency says biodiesel reduces greenhouse gas emissions, including nitrogen oxide. The process of making biodiesel from renewable and organic sources also boosts the environmental profile. The Wyss Institute at Harvard University has developed an evaporative cooling system that uses a specially coated ceramic to cool air without adding humidity. Researchers say the approach can yield more affordable and environmentally friendly air conditioning systems for the future.

The impact of HVAC systems on the spread of the novel coronavirus has been a hot topic since the beginning of the pandemic. However, it is striking that, even given all the discussions and guidance, there is still a lot that we do not know. Vaguely speaking, we know that crowded spaces with poor ventilation and/or low humidity levels tend to promote virus spread that filtration can help to remove the virus, and that measures such as UV-C radiation can help to disinfect indoor air. But even those suggestions are far from definitive and may be undermined by future study. In general, we ‘think’ that HVAC systems are a factor in spreading the virus, but we are not sure. Air flow Obviously, because the coronavirus is new, much information about the relationship between HVAC and virus spread is based on studies that were carried out in previous years related to other germs, such as SARS-CoV and MERS-CoV, which are similar to SARS-CoV-2, the virus that causes COVID-19. But can this previous testing and studies really be extrapolated to apply to the new disease? The answer is that no one really knows; therefore, such information basically amounts to educated guesses. There have been some studies since the pandemic began about how HVAC and air flow impact disease spread, some of them in China. However, these studies involve smaller sample sizes and come with caveats, disclaimers, and fine print contained in footnotes about the limitations of the conclusions. Hypotheses are often formulated, but typically the authors have not conducted aerodynamic testing or used other techniques to confirm them. HVAC and the transmission of pathogens A rush to provide useful (if flawed) information is understandable in the midst of an emergency More study is needed, and more time is needed to complete those studies and expand our base of knowledge on this important subject. A rush to provide useful (if flawed) information is understandable in the midst of an emergency. Acting on imperfect information has likely saved thousands of lives. But that success does not diminish the need to pursue more detailed and accurate information. Those pursuits will likely extend years into the future and well past the aftermath of the pandemic. Studies are needed in specific areas to round out the knowledge base and prepare us to better understand the impact of HVAC on disease spread in the next pandemic. There are no clear answers, and the role of a building’s HVAC systems in transmission of pathogens requires more attention. Further areas of study Among other areas, we need studies to cover: Epidemiologic factors to measure the role of ventilation, recirculated air, and to adequately quantify ventilation rates Use of computer simulations to more accurately track the spread of fine-exhaled droplets. More robust examination of the direct role of HVAC in transmitting and removing viable viruses within respiratory droplets or short-range aerosols. More research by multi-disciplinary teams that include HVAC engineers, epidemiologists, virologists, infectious disease experts, and other experts working together. Broader studies should cover the fields of epidemiology, engineering and aerodynamics/aerobiology. More partnerships between building facilities management departments and those tasked with preventing infection.   Will the pandemic change HVAC? The pandemic has impacted the HVAC market in many ways. As more of us spend time at home, we become more concerned about issues of air quality and indoor comfort. Some of the changes in our work-life patterns will likely be permanent, which will have a lasting impact on how office buildings are used – and how they are heated and cooled. It may be that the global pandemic changes the HVAC market for good, both challenging us to expand our technologies and providing opportunities to enhance our businesses. In the future, 2020 may become a pivotal date in the history of the HVAC market – a date after which nothing is ever quite the same. Establishing a sound scientific basis to direct the changing role of HVAC ‘after Covid’ will enable the industry to invest in safer technologies and innovative approaches to drive the future of the industry – and of the world.

The Wyss Institute at Harvard University has developed an evaporative cooling system that uses a specially coated ceramic to cool air without adding humidity. Researchers say the approach can yield more affordable and environmentally friendly air conditioning systems for the future. ‘cold-SNAP’ system The ‘cold-SNAP’ system uses a water-repellent nano-scale surface coating that is applied selectively to surfaces of a 3D-printed ceramic heat exchange. The result is much cooler buildings with less humidity. ‘cold-SNAP’ is short for cold superhydrophobic nano-architecture process. The invention uses evaporative cooling, which happens when hot air is put in contact with water. As the water evaporates, it cools the air but adds moisture. Use of the water-repellent coating separates the moisture from the cool air to provide an inexpensive source of cooler, dryer air that can cool a building in lieu of traditional air conditioners. Evaporative Cooling technology The hydrophobic coating is selectively applied to components that will manage the flow of dry air The approach is a union of old and new – combining ceramic, one of the oldest, cheapest and most widely available building materials, with the novel hydrophobic surface coating developed by Wyss Institute. Because ceramic is malleable, the heating exchange unit can be produced via extrusion or 3D printing of a single piece, with its shape adjusted to maximize surface area available for heat transfer and evaporation. The hydrophobic coating is selectively applied to components that will manage the flow of dry air. Variation on indirect evaporative cooling (IEC) systems The specialized coating separates incoming hot air from outgoing wet air, allowing the hot air to be cooled by circulating water without adding humidity to the inside of a building. ‘cold-SNAP’ is a variation on indirect evaporative cooling (IEC) systems, which use complex heat exchange units that make them difficult and expensive to manufacture.  Researchers say the approach can create low-cost, efficient air-cooling units to meet the world’s increasing demand while using 75% less energy. The system can be up to four times more efficient than conventional air conditioners as measured by the coefficient of performance (COP), the ratio of cooling to required energy. ‘cold-SNAP’ was designed by a multi-disciplinary team of scientists and designers from the Wyss Institute’s Adaptive Material Technologies Platform, Harvard’s Graduate School of Design (GSD), and the Harvard Center for Green Buildings and Cities (HCGBC). Integration into evaporative cooling systems The new technology could be integrated into existing evaporative cooling systems and sold as environmentally friendly air conditioners in a variety of climate zones. It could even be manufactured into the facades of buildings, thus cooling the space within, using only the energy needed to pump water to the system. With global warming causing a rise in the Earth’s average temperature, worldwide demand for air conditioning systems that do not contribute to that climate change increasingly will be in demand. A growing middle class throughout the world is also contributing to demand. No humidity added to the air ‘cold-SNAP’ does not add humidity to the air and works well in humid, tropical climates, as well as dry, hot climates Because ‘cold-SNAP’ does not add humidity to the air, it works well in humid, tropical climates (where it is sorely needed) as well as in dry, hot climates like the Middle East.  Traditional electric air conditioners use mechanical vapor compression to convert a chemical refrigerant back and forth between its liquid and vapor forms, absorbing heat during vaporization and then removing moisture during condensation. Traditional systems use a large amount of energy to cycle the refrigerant, which increases costs, not to mention the refrigerants contribute to global warming. Historically, the environmental impact of such systems was a hidden cost that was not considered. Wyss Institute Validation Project In 2019, ‘cold-SNAP’ was named a Wyss Institute Validation Project, which puts it on track to become commercialized. The validation program seeks to ‘de-risk' technologies and demonstrate that they can be scaled up for commercialization. The Wyss Institute for Biologically Inspired Engineering at Harvard University emulates Nature’s design principles to engineer new, ‘bio-inspired’ materials and devices with high-impact applications in healthcare, manufacturing, robotics, energy, and sustainable architecture. The cross-disciplinary faculty, technical staff, students, and fellows undertake high-risk research and technology development. 

Thermo King® customer Bottomley Enterprises greens up the holidays for millions of people across the United States each year. For many people, the holidays are simply not complete without a traditional tree, wreath, garland, swag, or some type of tabletop greenery – the fresh evergreen smells are often that final touch that make gatherings with family and friends memorable. And while millions flock to their local box stores for these holiday treasures, the odds are good that the products originated from the Blue Ridge Mountains and were delivered with love by Thermo King Customer Bottomley Enterprises. Producing exceptional quality “Our farm ships to large box retailers, the who’s who of retailers,” said Ken Kaelin, president of Bottomley Enterprises, the transportation arm for Bottomley Evergreens and Farms, which has been producing exceptional quality and service for nearly 30 years. What started out as a small family farming business in the hills of North Carolina has grown to produce a large variety of vegetables – think cabbage, corn, cilantro, collards, sweetcorn, pumpkins, green beans, and more, that feed consumers throughout the U.S. It also became one of the largest suppliers of holiday greenery in the eastern United States. The farming business led to the creation of Bottomley Enterprises in 2004 as founder Mitchell Bottomley fulfilled his dream of owning his own trucking company. While the businesses operate separately, Bottomley Enterprises still hauls the farm’s products. Home-Grown products Bottomley has depended on Thermo King refrigeration units to preserve the quality of the home-grown products From its beginning, Bottomley Enterprises has depended on Thermo King refrigeration units to preserve the quality of the home-grown products it transports. “The company started with just a couple tractors and trailers. Today, we are running a fleet of 70 tractors and 120 refrigerated trailers – all with Thermo King Precedent® S-600 units and a few legacy units that are used at the farm,” said Ken. “That number represents 40 percent growth within the past 15 months alone. Our trucking arm has enjoyed fast growth through our great culture, solid customer base and dedicated employees who understand that service is everything. All of this has really allowed for an exciting evolution for our companies.” Remote setting control Indeed, service is king for the Bottomley businesses, “And that’s a big reason why we have always chosen Thermo King to protect our products,” said Mitchell, who owns the company with his mother, Martha. “We are proud Thermo King users – it’s the only unit we have because we can depend on them. We love our Thermo King units.” The company not only depends on the refrigeration capacity of the units but also the telematics technology built into each unit. “We count on the TracKing® telematics,” said Ken. “The scrutiny of food safety and the ability to have visibility throughout the supply chain is like quenching a thirst for shippers. It helps us keep insurance and liability costs down. It offers remote setting control. It helps us track each load. It’s essential these days.” Keeping products safe Thermo King Central Carolinas also takes care of our reefer service work" Beyond the product is the service Bottomley receives from its home dealer Thermo King Central Carolinas and the entire Thermo King dealer network. “The partnership we get from Ben Cox, our service representative, is outstanding – he really is an extension of our employee team. He helps us manage our equipment and maintenance needs, and he provides our drivers with the product and operational information they need to run the unit efficiently – and keep our products safe.” “Thermo King Central Carolinas also takes care of our reefer service work, ensuring the equipment is tuned up and ready to go – this is wildly helpful to us. And if service is needed when our 120 team drivers are out on the road, we have an entire network to call on – that is added peace of mind,” said Ken. Refrigerated transport business Peace of mind is particularly important this time of year, when so many are depending on a fresh selection of trees and greenery at their local stores so they can decorate their homes with traditional holiday décor. The Bottomley family is poised to continue delivering for the long haul having recently opened a 33,000 square foot new trucking terminal in Mount Airy, North Carolina, that will accommodate many years of growth and create new jobs. “They have built a legacy – in both their farming business and the long-haul refrigerated transport business, and it truly is a pleasure to partner with them and see their continued successful growth,” said Ben.

Welsh plumbing, heating and green energy company, Heatforce, has entered into a two-year sponsorship of Glamorgan Cricket Club in association with Viessmann. The spectator terrace at Glamorgan Cricket’s Sophia Gardens Stadium, Cardiff, will be renamed ‘The Heatforce/Viessmann Terrace.’ Heatforce’s close relationship with Viessmann has led to the decision to explore a new audience, and to provide support for the Club. Local installation partner Sophia Gardens will host the World Cup champions when England take on Pakistan “As a Glamorgan Cricket supporter myself, I’m delighted that we are joining forces with Viessmann, to support the Club and to raise our brand awareness in the local area. We have big ambitions – just like the cricketing side – and we are very pleased to be able to back a Welsh sporting side, especially in these challenging times,” said Paul Maddocks, CEO of Heatforce, which has been serving homeowners in Wales for 35 years. Graham Russell, Viessmann’s Managing Director, said: “Viessmann is very happy to sponsor Glamorgan Cricket, together with our longstanding local installation partner, Heatforce. Having supported Welsh rugby in recent years, we’re looking forward to having a presence at Sophia Gardens and introducing our heating products to a new sporting family.” “Like many others, we can’t wait to get back to spectator sports and some decent cricket weather, and we don’t have to wait too long to be able to support Glamorgan from the new ‘Heatforce/Viessmann Terrace’.” Sophia Gardens will host the World Cup champions when England take on Pakistan, on Thursday 8th July 2021.

Mitsubishi Electric Trane HVAC US (METUS), the exclusive provider of Zoned Comfort Solutions® and a supplier of Variable Refrigerant Flow (VRF) heating and cooling systems, is pleased to support METUS distributor, S. G. Torrice Company, in its donation of Mitsubishi Electric equipment to Homes For Our Troops, a nonprofit organization that builds and donates specially adapted custom homes nationwide for severely injured post-9/11 veterans, to enable them to rebuild their lives. S. G. Torrice Company supplied equipment to outfit Homes For Our Troops’ control/equipment room in their Taunton, Massachusetts office. Specially adapted homes The new equipment replaces a malfunctioning 8-year-old system. The donated Mitsubishi Electric equipment included: (1) A/C Outdoor unit (PUYA12NKA7) (1) Wall-mounted Indoor Unit (PKAA12HA7) (1) Low Ambient Wind Baffle (WB-PA4) (1) Wall-mounted Remote Controller (PAR-40MAAU) “Homes For Our Troops does incredible work for injured veterans by building specially adapted homes so they can rebuild their lives,” says Stephen Torrice, president, S. G. Torrice Company. “We’re honored to support an organization whose focus is to support those who have sacrificed their previous way of life for our country.” Financial planning services Since 2004, Homes For Our Troops has been building and donating custom homes nationwide for injured post-9/11 veterans so they can rebuild their lives. These specially adapted custom homes enable veterans to focus on their recovery in a safe environment, and regain their freedom and independence. Veterans also receive financial planning services for long-term success after the home is built. S. G. Torrice Company is a full-service, family-owned HVAC distributor founded in 1958 by veteran Samuel G. Torrice. The company is headquartered in Wilmington, Massachusetts and has 12 locations serving residential and commercial HVAC dealers in Eastern Massachusetts, Maine, New Hampshire, Rhode Island and Vermont.

Global thermal and energy management supplier Hanon Systems announces the company is supplying their innovative R744 heat pump components to the Volkswagen Group for its global MEB platform. Designed specifically for battery-powered and electric vehicles, the first to market R744 heat pump components enable a single solution that delivers cabin comfort in cold or warm conditions with low power consumption. Heat pump systems "Based on our own market insight and engagement with global vehicle manufacturers, electric vehicle driving range is a known important consideration," said Nurdal Kücükkaya, president of Hanon Systems. "Our solutions for R744 heat pump systems demonstrate Hanon Systems is actively developing and bringing to market solutions to address these challenges in automotive electrification." The solution designed with Volkswagen uses R744 refrigerant (also known as carbon dioxide or CO2), which is widely known for its heat transfer properties and operates at higher pressure levels compared to other refrigerants. Improving energy consumption The solutions supplied by Hanon Systems, in combination with the refrigerant characteristics of R744, improves energy consumption compared to conventional refrigerants while meeting the desired cabin temperature, even in challenging sub-zero temperatures. Hanon Systems supplies the electric compressor, refrigerant valves, internal heat exchanger and accumulator as part of the R744 heat pump system equipped on various models based on the Volkswagen MEB platform.

Carrier Air-conditioning Sales & Service (Shanghai) Co., Ltd. (Carrier China) was selected by Guangzhou Respiratory Center to provide advanced heating, ventilating and air conditioning (HVAC) solutions to help protect the health and safety of patients and medical staff. Carrier China will provide solutions available through Carrier’s Healthy Buildings Program to help improve indoor air quality in the center. Carrier China will also install high-efficiency chillers and heat pumps to complement the Healthy Buildings solutions. Carrier China is a part of Carrier Global Corporation, a global provider of healthy, safe and sustainable building and cold chain solutions. Improving indoor air quality Guangzhou Respiratory Center is a multi-functional medical center planned to open in summer 2021. It will be equipped with 1,200 beds and will be the site of clinical trials, scientific research and education. The project covers nearly 85,000 square meters, with a total construction area of more than 193,000 square meters and a total investment of nearly RMB 2 billion. It is jointly funded and constructed by Guangdong Province and Guangzhou City. Carrier China will provide thousands of advanced airside products with UV light Carrier China will provide thousands of advanced airside products with UV light, which can greatly improve indoor air quality. Also, In order to meet the customer’s needs for high efficiency and energy savings, Carrier will provide comprehensive solutions for the project, including water-cooled and air-cooled chillers to significantly increase the system’s overall efficiency, and cooling-only and heat pump technology that can achieve both cooling and heating. Protecting staff wellness “Medical institutions are being increasingly designed as a space that can provide care for patients and protect staff wellness,” said Cissy Wang, General Manager, Commercial HVAC Equipment Distribution, Carrier China. “We’re glad that Carrier was selected to provide our Healthy Building Solutions to the Guangzhou Respiratory Center and we’re contributing to such a meaningful project." "2020 is a challenging year. The outbreak of COVID-19 puts forward stricter requirements for hospital design," said Titus Yu, Managing Director, Carrier HVAC North Asia, Carrier. "We’re committed to helping to improve occupant health and safety with our Healthy Buildings solutions and services for the medical industry."

Accommodating significant fleet growth and modernization, one of North America’s renowned refrigerated trucking companies, KLLM Transport Services, is adding 1,400 new Utility trailers refrigerated by Carrier Transicold units, equipped with the eSolutions telematics platform and TRU-Mount solar charging systems. Carrier Transicold is a part of Carrier Global Corporation, a globally renowned provider of healthy, safe and sustainable building and cold chain solutions.  “Thanks to continued investments to replace and upgrade our equipment and technology, we are, today, a 57-year-old company with one of the youngest, most advanced fleets on the highway,” said Jim Richards, President of KLLM, a Top-3 refrigerated carrier, headquartered in Richland, Mississippi. Carrier Transicold refrigeration units “As a premier service provider, with more than 6,000 refrigerated trailers and domestic intermodal containers serving 48 states and Mexico, it is vital that we continuously renew our fleet,” said Richards, adding “This latest investment helps us keep our fleet new and modern for improved service, less downtime and to provide our customers with the advantage of the most current technology.” The new Carrier Transicold systems include 1,325 X4 7500 single-temperature trailer refrigeration units to be deployed by KLLM, and 75 Vector 8600MT multi-temperature units to be used by KLLM’s Dallas-based Frozen Foods Express (FFE) business. All refrigeration systems will be installed on 53-foot Utility 3000R insulated trailers by Carrier Transicold and Utility Trailer dealer, Southern States Utility Trailer Sales Inc., also located in Richland. eSolutions telematics platform Carrier Transicold’s eSolutions platform helps refrigerated transporters operate more efficiently by improving visibility of their cold chain assets and intelligently providing a centralized data stream about their transport refrigeration units (TRUs) and cargo. In addition to supplying critical data, such as temperatures, location and movement, the eSolutions platform will provide two-way control as well as analytic and diagnostic information about its refrigeration units. TRU-Mount solar charging system Carrier’s TRU-Mount solar charging system helps maintain the charge of the refrigeration unit battery Carrier’s high-performance TRU-Mount solar charging system helps maintain the charge of the refrigeration unit battery, which supports the eSolutions telematics system, even when the refrigeration unit is off. “The fact that the eSolutions system is integrated with the Carrier Transicold units is very important to us,” stated Jim Richards, adding “It will give us new abilities to download data and upgrade over the air, including our IntelliSet profiles, something we are certainly excited about.” IntelliSet feature software application The IntelliSet feature is a software application included with Carrier Transicold’s APX refrigeration unit controllers that allows custom configuration of multiple refrigeration parameters to create profiles based on specific commodities or customer preferences. With the eSolutions system, IntelliSet configurations can be selected remotely, and parameter updates can be done over the air rather than manually, saving time and resources. For additional details about Carrier Transicold’s transport refrigeration units, eSolutions platform and solar charging options, turn to the experts in Carrier Transicold’s North America dealer network.