International standards

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.

Today, GE Appliances, a Haier company, opened the first new logistics center in northwest Georgia near the Appalachian Regional Port, adding momentum to the expansion of the Port of Savannah and its Georgia ports. The new center, referred to as the Southern Logistics Center, accelerates GE Appliances’ supply chain, enabling the company to provide materials and components to its U.S. manufacturing plants. GE Appliances (GEA) builds more than 2,300 appliances per hour in nine U.S. plants, which requires the purchase, storage and distribution of more than two billion parts and components. With the opening of the $32 million Southern Logistics Center, the fulfillment of those parts became easier. More efficient supply chain The 504,000 square foot center is the largest investment and first fulfillment and distribution warehouse at the Appalachian Regional Port (ARP), located in Murray County, an inland extension of the Port of Savannah. “The Southern Logistics Center is integral to GE Appliances’ future because it will reduce lead time on components and enable a more efficient supply chain,” said Bill Good, vice president of supply chain for GE Appliances. “This will help ensure that our manufacturing plants have the materials they need to serve our customers without delay. The support from the State of Georgia, the Georgia Ports Authority and Murray County helped make the Southern Logistics Center a reality.” Materials transportation efficiency The Southern Logistics Center will improve GEA’s inbound parts and materials transportation efficiency by 30% “We appreciate GE Appliances investing $32 million for the Southern Logistics Center and supporting the further economic development of Murray County and the State of Georgia,” said Governor Brian P. Kemp. “Their strategic view of fulfillment has led to the creation of 100 new jobs in our community. We look forward to our continued partnership.” The Southern Logistics Center will improve GEA’s inbound parts and materials transportation efficiency by 30% and eliminate more than three million long-haul trucking miles. The center is a strategic link for the supply chain, allowing GEA to serve customers better. Warehouse management processes It also represents another step forward in the journey to become the pioneer appliances company in the U.S., backed by GEA’s unprecedented investments of more than half a billion dollars in the entire product supply chain, including $130 million in Georgia over the past year. Comprehensive Logistics Co., Inc. (CLI), a third-party logistics company, operates the Southern Logistics Center under an agreement with and on behalf of GE Appliances. CLI is an innovator of material flow visibility technologies and warehouse management processes. More than 50 people are currently employed at the state-of-the-art facility, with the number expected to grow to 100 within a year.

The Built In America television show is taking viewers deep inside one of the nation’s massive, new industrial facilities to witness how a $417 million investment in United States manufacturing is creating Goodman brand air conditioners and furnaces, along with up to 7,000 jobs. Within the doors of the world’s largest tilt wall building at the Texas Technology Park, the Built In America documentary, led by host John McCalmont, demonstrates the manufacturing magic of morphing hefty 15,000-pound coils of steel, aluminum and copper into Goodman brand heating and air conditioning units. Roving the sprawling 4 million-plus square-foot facility, McCalmont – in tow with Goodman Vice President of Manufacturing Joseph Campbell – follows the entire Goodman production process from stamping, brazing, assembly, painting, testing and more testing. McCalmont even chips in to help assemble several products. revolutionize heating and air conditioning industry The technological prowess showcased at the Texas Technology Park demonstrates how far Harold V. Goodman’s dream has come since he created his namesake company 43 years ago. Back then, Goodman said he wanted to “revolutionize the heating and air conditioning industry,” but even he might have found the scope of manufacturing capabilities at Texas Technology Park beyond his imagination. Built In America television celebrates cutting-edge companies that manufacture and assemble products in the United States. Goodman designs, engineers and assembles all of its indoor comfort products in the United States. According to Built In America, the series focuses on the history, job creation, education, business model, pride in workmanship and positive community impact of top companies and their hometowns. The show airs on The Fox Business Network (FBN) as sponsored segments to over 230 million viewers internationally.

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."

Brivo, the global provider of cloud-based physical security, has acquired Parakeet Technologies, a provider of smart building solutions which include sensors, thermostats, wireless locks, and lighting controls. The acquisition accelerates Brivo’s ongoing push to enhance its in-building capabilities beyond its current access control, video, and security. The companies had already been working together as partners, and now plan a deeper integration between their products, including a common user interface, unified billing, and bundled services. Highly reliable remote management “We saw Parakeet’s IoT platform as an ideal way to quickly bring Smart Office capabilities to our channel partners and end users,” said Steve Van Till, President & CEO of Brivo. “Parakeet has a great track record of providing highly reliable remote management to widely dispersed properties, and they share our core values around customer service, cybersecurity, and innovation.” The Parakeet product leverages cloud services, cellphone apps, and an on-premise IoT gateway. The gateway provides connectivity to Z-wave sensors, locks, thermostats, lighting and other devices. Internet connectivity to the gateway is supported via WiFi, Ethernet or an integrated cellular modem with a built-in service plan. Manage smart building infrastructure We uncovered a need for a remotely managed IoT service that would boost productivity and save money" Parakeet’s responsively designed web app enables property managers and security personnel to manage smart building infrastructure from one central dashboard, while collecting data to track, monitor and manage staff. Parakeet launched its product in 2015 in the Vacation Rental market. According to Brad Huber, Founder and CEO of Parakeet, “Among property managers who cover large geographic territories for dozens or hundreds of clients, we uncovered a need for a remotely managed IoT service that would boost productivity and save money.” Professional installation and ongoing service Commenting on the installation challenges across large regions, he added that “being able to provide our products through Brivo’s international base of security dealers will give our customers the convenience of professional installation and ongoing service.” The Parakeet platform will continue to be offered as a stand-alone solution for the Vacation Rental Market under the new name, Brivo Vacation Rental, and will be unified with Brivo’s billing system. All current Parakeet customers will continue to be supported on the existing product, with options to add Brivo offerings to their current service plans.

Reliable Controls is pleased to announce the official release of the SS3 Deep Backplate. The SS3 Deep Backplate is an accessory that facilitates surface mounting without the need to cut an opening in the wall. In support of this objective, the backplate has a knockout that is sized perfectly for Wiremold, or it can be ordered with an optional conduit coupler for use with wiring enclosed in ½” electrical metallic tubing. This accessory is ideal for gas-sensing or wireless models or mounting on an exterior wall where thermal bridging could influence sensor readings. It is designed to fit and cover single-device electrical boxes and is compatible with any device with the SS3 or SST3 form factor.

Hybrid heating systems are becoming more and more common today as building owners, engineers and facility managers seek ways to reduce heating costs in both current facilities and new builds. Combining a large mass, non-condensing boiler with a high efficiency-condensing boiler – or “hybrid system” – ensures that a heating system is running at optimum efficiency to minimize operating costs over the course of a heating season. Why do condensing and non-condensing boilers make such a good pair? Non-condensing boilers are ideal for the core heating season months of December through February. That’s because these boilers are designed to run at higher return water temperatures above 130 degrees to maximize longevity. The average efficiencies of non-condensing boilers, such as cast iron boilers, range from 80-85 percent thermal efficiency. Condensing and non-condensing boilers  Running condensing boilers in high return temperature applications reduces their operating efficiency In comparison, condensing boilers reach their maximum efficiency – upwards of 95 percent –when the return water temperature is below dew point and are ideal for operation during the milder heating season shoulder months of October, November, March and April. Running condensing boilers in high return temperature applications reduces their operating efficiency to marginally higher than non-condensing boiler designs. By combining non-condensing and condensing boilers in a hybrid system boiler plant, users can reset building set points, reduce fuel consumption to lower operating costs and create comfortable, consistent building temperatures throughout the heating season. Hybrid boiler systems So why not just use an all high efficiency boiler plant? Consider the following benefits of a hybrid boiler system: Boiler Replacement Applications: Installing a hybrid system makes sense in existing, non-condensing replacement boiler applications. Most often, there are at least two high mass, non-condensing boilers in older boiler plants. Installing a high efficiency, condensing boiler in place of one of the failing high mass boilers now enables the efficiency benefits of the hybrid system. Further, this approach enables an incremental step in financing the overall boiler replacement capital outlay over time. New Build Applications: In short, condensing boilers cost more - upwards of 30-40 percent more than non-condensing boiler systems because of the non-corrosive heat exchanger materials required. Installing a hybrid system is more cost effective to purchase upfront and often achieves the greater portion of the energy savings of replacing an entire boiler plant with high-efficiency condensing boilers.  Product Life / Longevity: Inherent to their design, non-condensing boilers have a longer product life, up to two times that of condensing boiler designs because of their thicker cast iron design and wider water pathways. Installing a hybrid system ensures a longer life of the boiler plant dedicated to the coldest heating season months. Hybrid heating systems are becoming more and more common today Multiple industries Consider an elementary school with two large cast iron boilers – one of which needs to be replaced after many years of dependable operation. In this scenario, the cast iron boiler is replaced with a new, high efficiency condensing boiler to match the heating requirement. A hybrid system can be utilized in many facilities across multiple industriesOnce installed, the condensing boiler controller allows for the assignment of an alternating, lead/lag boiler plant so that it serves as the primary boiler over the milder heating season months and the existing non-condensing boiler is operational more for colder days. A hybrid system can be utilized in many facilities across multiple industries. More frequently, commercial buildings such as medical facilities, apartment complexes, churches, schools, colleges, nursing homes and corporate campuses, are standardizing on hybrid system boiler designs. Combining a durable cast iron boiler with a high efficiency condensing boiler can reduce wasted energy, lower utility costs and protect the environment with a smaller carbon footprint, while extending the life of the existing heating system at a lower acquisition cost.

Small airborne particles contribute to the spread of infectious diseases of all sorts, and current concerns about the novel coronavirus COVID-19 are highlighting the role of HVAC systems to minimize airborne disease transmission and to ensure better indoor air quality in general. Because small particles can remain airborne for some period of time, HVAC systems can play a positive role in minimizing disease transmission, specifically by: Supplying clean air to susceptible occupants. Containing contaminated air and/or exhausting it to the outdoors. Diluting the air in a space with cleaner air from outdoors and/or by filtering the air. Cleaning air within the room. Developing resources ASHRAE has developed resources to help maximize how HVAC systems can have a positive impact as the coronavirus spreads. The society recommends strategies such dilution ventilation, laminar and other in-room flow regimes, differential room pressurization, personalized ventilation, source capture ventilation, filtration (central or unitary), and ultraviolet germicidal irradiation (UVGI) (upper room, in-room and in the airstream).  ASHRAE suggests that owners, operators and engineers should collaborate with infection prevention specialists knowledgeable about transmission of infection in the community and the workplace and about strategies for prevention and risk mitigation. “The recent escalation in the spread of coronavirus disease 2019 is alarming on a global scale,” said ASHRAE President Darryl K. Boyce. “While [we support] expanded research to fully understand how coronavirus is transmitted, we know that healthy buildings are a part of the solution." ASHRAE offers guidance to building owners, operators, and engineers on how to best protect occupants from exposure to the virus and specifically how airborne particles might be circulated by HVAC systems. Practical standards and guidelines For example, ASHRAE’s recently approved position document on Airborne Infectious Diseases summarizes practical standards and guidelines that all types of facilities should follow. ASHRAE Standards that can have a positive impact on the spread of COVID-19 include those covering ventilation for acceptable indoor air quality, testing methods for general ventilation air-cleaning devices, thermal environmental conditions for human occupancy, and air quality within commercial aircraft. Another ASHRAE standard covers a method for testing UV lamps for use in HVAC units or air ducts to inactivate microorganisms on irradiated surfaces. ASHRAE also advises that new and existing healthcare intake and waiting areas, crowded shelters and similar facilities should go beyond minimum requirements. The virus Since the first notification on Dec 31, 2019, of more than 40 cases of an unusual viral pneumonia of unknown origin in Wuhan, China, the infection has spread to all of mainland China and later throughout the world, according to Healix International. The coronavirus, later designated COVID-19, infects the lungs, causing a viral pneumonia, and causes initial symptoms of fever with cough and sore throat. It can progress to shortness of breath and breathing difficulties leading to pneumonia. There is currently no vaccine or specific treatment. Among the available ASHRAE resources are a full position document, standards, publication, technical committees, research projects and material to prepare for COVID-19. ASHRAE is a global society advancing human well-being through sustainable technology for the built environment.

HARDI, an organization of wholesale distributors in the HVACR market, is curating and publishing videos on various aspects of the industry. Heating, Air-Conditioning, and Refrigeration Distributors International (HARDI) has launched HARDI Hub, a platform with educational and informative videos that allow viewers to learn something new. As the Hub evolves, the hope is to see an increased contribution of content from members, allowing them to be able to teach their peers information they are the expert in. Video types include interviews, webinars, full conference sessions, and more. HARDI is also working with Supplier/Manufacturer and Service Vendor members to provide educational videos about their products and services, educating viewers about how to successfully use the product, or the benefits of implementing it into their business. These videos will be chosen similarly to their proven vendor program, verified by HARDI. Educating the HVACR market HARDI has full access to all aspects of the HVACR industry, says Emily Frost, Content Manager. “We can easily find out what is important to our members and then create or source the resources to provide the education and knowledge they are looking for.” The addition of Tim Fisher, Team Leader of Market Intelligence; and Brian Loftus, Market Research and Benchmarking Analyst, positions HARDI to create the content members are asking for.The video hub has content that anyone in business can use to grow their skills HARDI’s primary audience is HVACR Wholesaler Distributors. However, the video hub has content that anyone in business can use to grow their skills, says Frost. “While we are HVACR-focused, there are many skills and qualities that transfer over into general business needs.”  For example, the video “Perfect Your Facebook Marketing Strategy” with Antoine Dupont covers a topic that anyone can learn from and use to grow their business skillset. There are also Government Affairs videos with content that directly relates to HVACR Distribution, such as the "HFC Phasedown" video, discussing how the introduction of new refrigerants will affect members’ businesses. HARDI Hub videos come from a trusted source, and the association seeks to provide valuable content that will help members succeed Trusted source of information “Our members have always asked for a library of resources, and video is increasingly becoming the method of choice for how people wish to view content,” says Frost. “The industry needs a collective place they can go, to get reliable information they can use to grow their skills and their businesses.” HARDI Hub videos come from a trusted source, and the association seeks to provide valuable content that will help members succeed, resulting in increased awareness of wholesale distribution as a whole.Anyone can submit a video proposal to HARDI Currently, content providers include HARDI staff, industry experts from councils, and members or partners who are experts in a specific field. Anyone can submit a video proposal to HARDI, which will work together to determine if it is something valuable that members want to engage with. Videos from HVACR experts Currently, there are feature videos from Jason Bader, a known HVACR industry expert; Alan Beaulieu, a world-renowned Economist; and Alex Ayers, HARDI’s Government Affairs expert. The councils source experts in their designated fields to provide general content on topics such as Sales, Marketing, HR, and Supply Chain, or more industry-specific, like the Controls Council and their webinar on controls distribution.HARDI Hub is also frequently featured on social media pages when new videos are published To find HARDI Hub, members can go to the website, hardinet.org, and click the HARDI Hub tab at the top right of the screen in the menu bar. HARDI Hub is also frequently featured on social media pages when new videos are published. “We have also included videos in our association newsletters like the Thermostatus and Data Driven Newsletter (DDN) to reference content that relates to the featured article and in our blog,” says Frost. “Videos can be embedded on other websites, allowing the video contributor to share the video on their website. There are social media share buttons on each video as well, allowing anyone to share a video to their page. We also encourage members to subscribe to HARDI Hub, so they get an email notification when new content is published.”

There was plenty to see and appreciate at AHR Expo in Orlando. And there is good news to report: Innovation is alive and well in the HVAC market. Some new products on display demonstrated genuine ingenuity. Exhibitors had enthusiasm to spare as they shared what’s new in the market with this first-time visitor to the show. HVAC is not a new market, but it is changing and, in some regards, re-inventing itself. The vibrancy, variety and sheer size of AHR Expo showed off the newest and best the industry has to offer.  ‘Better Way to Heat and Cool’ Electronics highlighted the benefits of inverter systems -- "a better way to heat and cool" -- at their press event at AHR Expo. Despite the advantages, HVAC contractors are pushing back at the new, less familiar systems. The industry is at a "crossroads." Inverter systems have variable-frequency drives that control the speed of the compressor motor, enabling lower power consumption – operating at a partial load as Innovation is alive and well in the HVAC marketLG opposed to a full load. For example, an inverter system may use only 20 amps compared to 90 amps for traditional systems. The systems are quieter, too. There are also now inverter systems for ducted systems – "the space in between that nobody is talking about". New "hydro kits" can also extend the benefits of the systems, providing radiant floor heat or the ability to melt snow from a driveway. LG Electronics also introduced a new line of IP-based controls, aimed at the 97% of commercial buildings that are 100,000 square feet or less, many of which don't have building automation systems. The controller can be used in lieu of integrating with third party systems, which can add costs. They also are introducing predictive analytics that can consider multiple conditions over time and then predict things that may happen, such as maintenance requirements. The company also emphasized the benefit of LG as part of a range of products the company provides for the home, from OLED televisions to appliances to robotic vacuum cleaners. There is an opportunity for all the devices to be connected to an LG panel and "drive the experience." Monitoring Indoor Air Quality Airthings was a new exhibitor at AHR Expo, located off the beaten path among the high-numbered booths. Even so, the company had a great show with “enormous interest,” said Oyvind Birkenes, CEO. Airthings has an indoor air quality monitoring system, with a battery-operated, wireless sensor as the main component. There Some new products on display demonstrated genuine ingenuityare actually seven sensors inside the device, monitoring radon gas, CO2 level, temperature, humidity, VOC levels, pressure and ambient light. The device can be easily mounted on the wall and provides data every 5 minutes, which is sent to the cloud to be analyzed. The cloud system provides an overview of data, which is customizable. Users can set notification levels and/or download air quality reports. The system can also be integrated with building management systems (BMS) or other dashboard displays. A hub can manage up to 50 of the sensors for larger systems, in effect, a fully independent local network. Birkenes said the device provides a “disruptive” upsell opportunity for various platforms. Cooling Towers Making a Comeback A new era of cooling towers includes products that are modular and built on a smaller scale for tighter locations, says Neal Walsh, HVAC Business Manager, Baltimore Aircoil Company. “We’re turning the concept of cooling towers on its head,” said Walsh. The new concept leverages the energy efficiency advantages of cooling towers, while opening new applications to the technology. The modules of the product can be put in place by a forklift, and it is less than half the size of a traditional cooling tower. Up to six of the devices can be installed in A new era of cooling towers includes products that are modular and built on a smaller scale for tighter locationsa row with a control panel. Low water usage enables the system to be flushed and refilled once a day – no expensive water treatment needed. In all, it is less expensive to install and maintain, and could be installed inside a building, on a roof or anywhere there is space. The product is popular with school districts, which seek to avoid refrigerants. The new design is driving a “resurgence in popularity” in the market, said Walsh. Plastic Pipes with Easy Waterproof Sealing Uponor displayed pipe systems made of PEXA (cross-linked polyethylene) plastic, featuring “crosslinking thermal memory.” The pipe returns to its original shape when heated. It is available in ½-in. to 4-in diameters for residential or commercial installations. A special tool can be used to expand the pipe to accept a fitting, and then the pipe returns to its original shape when heated to create a water-tight seal without glue or solvents. The pipes can be used for radiant heating applications, and Uponor offers “roll-out” mats (pre-assembled configurations of pipes) for easy installation.  Through a partnership with a Serbian company, the company also now offers polypropylene pipe for larger applications. There was plenty to see and appreciate at AHR Expo in Orlando SPVU Systems with Greater Efficiency Bard offers “single-package vertical units” for commercial applications in space-confined systems, whether the application is equipment cooling or “creature Many products demonstrated at AHR are also big in the education marketcomfort,” said Paul Quigley, Senior Vice President, Sales and Marketing. The factory-sealed systems ensure greater durability for mission-critical applications, such as telecommunications, data centers, etc. Bard’s products are also big in the education market (especially portable classrooms). Their line has been completely redesigned and reconfigured by Bard’s engineers; they have replaced nine major product families (and 10 million product iterations) with just two categories. The new models meet the Department of Energy’s 11EER minimum energy conservation standards for Single Package Vertical Unit (SPVU) air conditioners and heat pumps – a 22 percent increase in efficiency. They can also remove 35% more humidity than other units. The new systems use recycled denim for insulation (instead of fiberglass).  Leveraging the Benefits of UV-C UV Resources highlighted the use of UV-C spectrum light for HVAC applications. They have a germicidal lamp system that uses UV-C to penetrate the HVAC coil to eliminate microbial buildup. It keeps coil surfaces, drain pans, air filters and ducts free of organic buildup and works better than pressure washing or chemical treatment. The company also displayed a germicidal UV fixture that can be wall-mounted at 7 feet or higher in a room. Special louvers direct “germicidal irradiation” at an upward and outward angle and create a zone of UV-C to kill germs and minimizes the dosage in the lower area of the room. It's useful in doctors’ offices, public buildings, etc. LG Components’ New Compressor LG Components launched a new product – a fusion compressor (hybrid) that merges the best of rotary systems and of scroll technology. Durability-improving innovations include a more sensitive vacuum prevention device and a stronger, stress-tested discharge reed valve that withstands the harsh operating conditions posed by refrigeration applications and limits excessive sound levels. It is compatible with multiple refrigerants, including R-404A, R-507, R-407A, R-407C, R-448A and R-449A; the compressor has a capacity range of 1-6 HP Catch up on our Day One Review here. or our Day Two Review here.

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.”

The University of Texas at Austin first opened its doors in 1883 with eight professors, 221 students and a goal of creating quality higher education in the state of Texas. Throughout the last 135 plus years, UT Austin has grown to over 3,000 professors, 51,000 students and has garnered an impressive global reputation. Regardless of growth, the university takes pride in its active attention to pursuing sustainable energy solutions. In the interest of reducing the impact the university has on the local grid and environment, the Carl J. Eckhardt Combined Heating and Power Complex was built to provide energy for the campus. Energy Production Efficiency The system uses the same amount of fuel today as in 1976 with double the amount of served space This power plant has achieved an efficiency of more than 85%, meaning very little energy is lost in the form of heat. This is more than twice the efficiency of a typical power plant. With all of the advancements in efficiency, the system uses the same amount of fuel today as in 1976 with double the amount of served space. Because the energy production efficiency is more than 85%, annual savings opportunities are now on the demand side. In 2010, the Energy Management & Optimization (EMO) team at University of Texas at Austin began a 20-year plan to reduce the average energy use intensity (EUI) on the main campus by 20%. The goal was met early in 2018, so a new goal was set for at least 2% annually. This reduction in energy consumption has been taking place even while the university continues to grow. Achieving Higher Levels Of Sustainability Through initiatives, such as replacing halogen lamps with LEDs in the Texas Memorial Museum and behavioral programs encouraging students to turn off lights, UT Austin has been consistently meeting their goal of optimizing energy consumption. This allows UT Austin to reduce operating costs and achieve higher levels of sustainability. With UT Austin’s continuous growth comes an ever-evolving need for facilities With UT Austin’s continuous growth comes an ever-evolving need for facilities. Recently, UT Austin converted an old technology incubator facility with dense equipment cooling loads, known as the West Pickle Research Center, into new office spaces for faculty. Because the offices do not require as much cooling as the lab, the two constant-speed, oil-lubricated, centrifugal chillers that had previously supported the building were no longer appropriate. There was a 650 ton (2,285 kW) chiller that provided too much cooling, and a 200 ton (703 kW) unit that did not provide enough. Highly Efficient And Optimized Solution The chillers were installed in 1983 and ran on R-11, an ozone depleting refrigerant that is now banned for use in new equipment via Montreal Protocol. The chillers were past due for an upgrade and operating them wasted a lot of energy. Johnson Controls offered a highly efficient and optimized solution with a 300 ton (1,055 kW) YORK® YZ Magnetic Bearing Centrifugal Chiller. Installed in 2018, the chiller provided a perfect middle ground between the two previous chillers and was fondly nicknamed the ‘Goldilocks Chiller’ because it was just the right size for the new building load. With the flexible control options that the variable speed drive offers to meet a shifting building load, unnecessary energy consumption was curbed. Additionally, the magnetic bearing technology in the YORK® YZ dramatically increases reliability, decreases downtime and decreases the need for maintenance. Low Tower Water Temperatures The high efficiency of the YZ makes an appreciable difference in energy costs The UT Austin EMO Team appreciates the independence of the YZ chiller, saying, “We never have to worry about changing filters or checking oil levels, which allows us to focus our energy on saving initiatives rather than the upkeep of equipment.” While operating the YZ Chiller, UT Austin realized an estimated 330,000 kWh or $23,000 annual savings. The high efficiency of the YZ makes an appreciable difference in energy costs over the year compared to the old chillers previously in the building. One of the reasons the YZ chiller can save energy throughout the year is its ability to run at exceptionally low tower water temperatures, thanks to its wide operating map. Reducing Energy Consumption “We used to have to hold the entering condenser water temperature at 65°F (18.3°C) to run our chillers during the winter months, but the YZ Chiller is able to take advantage of our entering condenser water temperatures down to 45°F (7.2°C), greatly reducing the energy consumption.” The YZ is designed for real-world efficiency and operates efficiently at off-design conditions Utilizing magnetic bearings eliminates minimum speeds and lubrication systems that previously limited chillers from operating at extra low lift conditions. The YZ is designed for real-world efficiency and operates efficiently at off-design conditions, which is where chillers operate 98% of the time. Even in a warmer climate like Austin, Texas, there are still plenty of hours where the temperature is cool enough to take advantage of lower entering condenser water temperature. Sophisticated Building Technology While the chiller has been operating, exceptional efficiencies as low as 0.15 kW/ton (23 COP) have been observed. An impressive feature of the YORK® YZ Chiller is its ability to easily integrate into any building setting and run efficiently. In this retrofit to an old lab facility, an immediate efficiency improvement of 15% over UT Austin’s other fully optimized plants was noted soon after starting up the YZ Chiller. Juan Ontiveros concludes, “It can support anyone in any system of any age. You don’t need the most sophisticated building technology to run the YZ and realize awesome efficiencies!”