Refrigerants

Latest statistics indicate that the almost 64.6% out of 96,800 residential buildings in Germany are completed with heat pumps in 2023. The share of heat pumps has risen by 8%, when compared to 2022 and has doubled since 2014. Heat pumps were used in 68.9% of all single- and two-family houses completed in 2023, but were much less common in multi-family households (41.1%). Rise in heat pumps Over 400,000 heat pumps were manufactured in Germany alone in 2023 Over 400,000 heat pumps were manufactured in Germany alone in 2023. This dynamic shows great amount of potential for the heat pump industry in the world. The trend shows rising tendency due to an increase of up to 14%, when compared to 2023 (350,900 per year units). Besides, EU tendency demonstrates that renewable sources energy systems are going to rise up to 69% till 2030 year. The most popular HVAC solution compatible with renewable energy sources systems is heat pumps. So, the rise of heating pump units is expected as per analysis, in particular, air-to-water heat pumps and air-to-air heat pumps. Heat pumps on ultra-efficient refrigerant - R290 Cooper&Hunter are not oblivious of this tendency. Moreover, the company’s R&D departments have developed the heat pumps on ultra-efficient refrigerant - R290. The latest ultra-efficient refrigerant R290 is the most eco-friendly and the most cost-effective cooling/heating heat pump source. Cooper&Hunter are continuously working on updating its products in line with modern energy-efficient, cost-effective solutions and products. They aim to make the environment eco-friendly and energy-innovative!

Vetter GmbH, a pioneer in safety solutions, is proud to unveil its latest innovative product: MAGNASEAL. This groundbreaking magnetic urethane sheet redefines how first responders and industry professionals handle hazardous material leaks. The Vetter MAGNASEAL Magnetic Sealing Patch instantly stops hazardous leaks. The patches are a highly safe and effective way to control liquids and gaseous substances leaking out of magnetic objects. Thanks to its unique self-adhesive, patented sealing solution, MAGNSEAL is easy to use and can be applied in seconds. This revolutionary product redefines how first responders, hazmat technicians, and industry professionals handle hazardous material leaks. Key Features Magnetic Properties: Magnaseal adheres securely to metal surfaces, allowing for quick and reliable leak sealing for various applications. Flexibility and Strength: The flexible yet robust design of Magnaseal allows it to be applied to stress cracks, ruptures, and tears to metallic vessels. Cost-Effective Solution: By preventing leaks and minimizing damage, Magnaseal saves both time and resources. Its efficiency translates to cost savings for emergency response teams and industrial facilities. Safety and Environmental Impact: Magnaseal enhances safety by swiftly containing leaks, protecting personnel, and preventing hazardous material spills. Its use contributes to a cleaner environment. Emergency kit for industry  "We're really excited to be bringing such a revolutionary product to the market," said Karina Wendler, product manager for Vetter. "There's nothing quite like Magnaseal. Ideally, it would be in the emergency kit of any industry that stores in metal containers or any other industry for which leakages would be a problem." MAGNASEAL is available worldwide except USA, CA, and PL from members of the Vetter dealer network.

Kingsdown Compressed Air Systems Limited (Kingsdown), a distributor of compressed air and other equipment in the UK has become part of Atlas Copco Group. Kingsdown was founded in 1996 and is located in Wrotham, Kent, England. The company has a wide range of customers in all types of manufacturing industries, such as food & drinks, textiles, printing, and advanced manufacturing. strong sales and service "Kingsdown is well renowned with strong sales and service and has an impressive market presence in its region," said Philippe Ernens, Business Area President of Compressor Technique, adding "This acquisition is fully in line with our strategy to further enhance geographical presence and will help us serve present and future customers even better." The company has 13 employees and revenues of 2.4 MGBP in 2023 (31 MSEK). The purchase price is not disclosed. The company will become part of the service division within the Compressor Technique Business Area.

DRI-STEEM Corporation (DriSteem), the globally renowned manufacturer of humidity control, evaporative cooling, and water treatment products, is excited to announce that Jake Wegner has joined DriSteem as Director of Sales, Americas. In his new position, Jake will be responsible for all aspects of DriSteem sales operations in North America plus Central and South America. This includes overseeing the regional sales management team, inside sales support, and OEM sales. Sales and marketing teams Jake has a proven track record of leading sales teams and driving growth in various industries. Most recently, he was with Hiniker Co., a manufacturer of snow removal and agricultural equipment, where he led both outside and inside sales and marketing teams for both divisions. "Jake Wegner brings a wealth of experience and a proven track record of driving sales growth," said David Pflum, President of DriSteem, adding "We are thrilled to welcome him to DriSteem and are confident that his leadership will further strengthen our position in the market."

As the Paris Olympics 2024 is about to get underway, millions of fans will travel to the French capital city to attend one of the world's largest sporting events.  Due to the latest technology from Johnson Controls, they will enjoy a more comfortable experience at some of the smartest and most energy-efficient stadiums on the continent. energy-efficient and sustainable By integrating advanced building automation systems, HVAC, and fire suppression technologies across eight venues, the company not only is helping the International Olympic Committee prioritize safety and operational efficiency, but also is contributing to the Committee's ambitious goal of reducing the event's carbon footprint by 50% compared to previous Games. Achieving this goal required making the building infrastructure behind the games' venues more energy-efficient and sustainable.  York 3.3 MW industrial chillers This equipment provides sustainable and energy-efficient cooling at one of the flagship sites For example, two of the latest innovations of Johnson Controls' York 3.3 MW industrial chillers are in operation at the new cooling production plant, the La Chapelle plant, located in the Adidas Arena sports and cultural complex. As the twelfth power plant in the city of Paris' cooling network, it meets the cooling needs of the Adidas Arena and the surrounding area. This equipment provides sustainable and energy-efficient cooling at one of the flagship sites of the Olympic Games. sustainable cooling technology "With temperatures rising year on year and heatwaves becoming the norm, the need for sustainable cooling technology is critical to ensure optimal conditions in venues, while minimizing the impact on the planet," said Marc Vandiepenbeeck, CFO and EMEALA President for Johnson Controls. He adds, "Chillers are one of the most energy-consuming pieces of equipment in a building and represent an important opportunity to cut energy use and cost, while minimizing carbon footprint and delivering a healthier indoor environment."    Metasys building automation system Facility managers can identify potential issues, make adjustments, and ensure the stadium is running efficiently A further example is a renowned tennis stadium where the Johnson Controls Metasys building automation system links the most vital building equipment including HVAC, lighting control, and energy management. The system controls and monitors performance and provides real-time data so facility managers can identify potential issues, make adjustments, and ensure the stadium is running as efficiently and sustainably as possible.   safety, security, and building management Marc Vandiepenbeeck continues, "We are proud to work with these prestigious venues and help our customers achieve their desired outcomes in energy efficiency, carbon reduction emissions, safety, security, and building management." "Our expertise in smart stadiums and large venues has made Johnson Controls the partner of choice for stadiums across the world and we continue to innovate in this space to further elevate the fan experience," he adds. operational efficiency Johnson Controls drives fan engagement, operational efficiency, and sustainability with innovative building technology at sports and entertainment venues across the globe. The company provides smart building solutions to Intaleq in Doha, Fiserv Forum in Milwaukee, O2 Arena in London,  Allegiant Stadium in Las Vegas, Chase Centre in San Francisco, Borussia Dortmund at SIGNAL IDUNA PARK, and more. It offers its full range of technologies for this sector, including its OpenBlue digital platform, building automation system, HVAC, fire detection and suppression.

Dedicated support from the MHI Projects team has helped provide a major climate control upgrade for the UK home of global glass processing specialist - LiSEC.   Lizzy Holmes, Sales Engineer for MHI Projects, worked closely with Matt Everall, Engineering Manager at Contractor and MHI 3 Diamond Dealer Modo Cooling, to ensure smooth delivery of a high-efficiency VRF solution.  air conditioning system Austrian-based manufacturer, LiSEC has been in its UK premises in Telford since 2008 and was initially looking to improve the efficiency of its office operations by moving to an LED lighting system. Service Manager - Vinney Kirkland contacted Modo Lighting regarding an energy survey, and it was suggested that the air conditioning system should also be considered for replacement.  40% cost savings A significant advantage of the 3-pipe system was the capability to provide simultaneous heating and cooling Sister company - Modo Cooling was able to demonstrate a potential saving of 40% in running costs compared to the existing system using the Mitsubishi Heavy Industries (MHI) flexible 3-pipe heat recovery VRF solution, with a predicted return on investment (ROI) for 3 years. Another significant advantage of the 3-pipe system was the capability to provide simultaneous heating and cooling when required, something which had not been possible with the previous system. This allows different offices, and areas within an office, to be cooled or heated at the same time.  MHI KXZ2 VRF outdoor units These projections, coupled with the poor reliability record of the old equipment, led to the project being given the go-ahead, with MHI Projects, Modo, and LiSEC working to identify the best possible combination of equipment and the preferred location for the outdoor units.  Two MHI KXZ2 VRF outdoor units were selected, one for each floor of the building,  along with 11 indoor four-way cassettes. Installation took four weeks, two weeks for each floor, with Lizzy Holmes and MHI Projects able to support the process every step of the way.  easy to set up and reliable When asked why MHI equipment was chosen, Matt Everall said, "I just like the kit. I know how to use it, it’s easy to set up and is very reliable."  He also feels that MHI offers the best balance of ‘cost v quality’ compared to other high-end brands, adding, "In my experience as a service engineer, I’ve only ever been to one MHI breakdown, whereas other ‘premium’ products have proved far more unreliable.’"  MHI warranty and performance Vinney Kirkland said the extended MHI warranty, providing peace of mind for up to seven years, had been a factor in getting the project over the line, and said that the system was already exceeding expectations in terms of performance.  Vinney Kirkland stated, "Overall, the system provides all that was expected and the reduction in power usage will enable a return on investment sooner than predicted. The cassettes blend in with the surrounding tiling and the neat appearance of the external units is a definite upgrade from our old system." easy access Vinney Kirkland continues, "The controllers for each unit are neat and modern with a system that allows for easy access to the major control requirements and access through password for additional information. This ease of use allows for individual sections to have the desired temperature without affecting other users. Modo offered a convincing solution to our needs and the team worked diligently and showed a great work ethic."  MHI Projects offers support through the Beijer Ref branch network of DW, HRP, RW, and DWG. 

How can UK businesses effectively tackle the challenge of cooling commercial and industrial buildings? Cooling commercial and industrial buildings can be a challenge for UK businesses. In recent years, the spiraling energy costs have put pressure on businesses with regard to finding new and innovative ways to achieve the same result with less capital outlay and less maintenance. New system installs have sometimes been put on hold and maintenance schedules squeezed, leaving many businesses with the challenge of managing aging HVAC assets and deciding when and where to invest. Systems without regular maintenance can experience unpredictable downtime and parts availability is not always guaranteed. Evaporative Cooling Evaporative cooling is an alternative cooling method that not only offers higher energy efficiency Business owners will always wonder how they can improve the cost-effectiveness, ease of maintenance, and sustainability of systems their business needs. When it comes to cooling business premises, there’s a solution that not enough people know: Evaporative Cooling.  Evaporative cooling is an alternative cooling method that not only offers higher energy efficiency than alternative HVAC solutions but also has cheaper running costs. Since then, it has been our mission to develop and use this technology to tackle the cooling challenges in industrial processes. Cooling Challenges in Industrial Processes With regard to cooling, many industrial processes have a high heat gain, whereby the process itself generates heat which must be managed. There are numerous sectors where this is occurring, two prime examples from our customer experience are industrial-scale bakeries and plastic molding facilities. The production line may be operational 24 hours a day, seven days a week In an industrial-scale bakery using modern production methods, the production line may be operational 24 hours a day, seven days a week. The constant production of heat and steam from large ovens working to high temperatures must be managed carefully, especially given the health and safety requirements for food production areas. Heat gain from the industrial processes Plastic molding facilities manufacture a variety of end products from everyday items such as plastic bottles for household goods to more specialist storage and packaging products. In a plastic molding facility heat is used to mold the liquid plastic but chemical particles may also need extraction to maintain a safe working environment. Production in any of these facilities may be adversely affected by the heat gain in the process itself. Unplanned and unmanaged heat in any manufacturing facility has the potential to stop production resulting in a cascade of business interruption, lost revenues, damaged stock, and missed productivity targets. All potentially severe impacts for any business to consider. Plastic molding facilities manufacture a variety of end products. In addition to heat gain from the industrial processes, we should also note that UK air temperatures are rising, the top 10 warmest years for the UK since records began in 1884 have all occurred since 2002. As the UK continues to experience temperature rises and more seasonal fluctuations we need to look to those more experienced with warmer climates to optimize and improve our own approach to cooling these spaces. So, let’s consider the choices to cool large commercial and industrial spaces. Conventional air conditioning (AC) systems Cotton mills and textile plants were among the early adopters of the technological advancement Most of us will be familiar with conventional air conditioning (AC) systems but let’s review how they work: The first “modern” air conditioning unit was built by the American inventor Willis Carrier in 1902 and was used to control the temperature in the Sackett-Wilhelms Lithographing & Publishing Company in Brooklyn, New York. This innovation helped to control the paper dimension and ink alignment. Cotton mills and textile plants were among the early adopters with the technological advancement soon spreading across the world. Today a conventional AC unit removes heat and moisture from the air. It uses a chemical refrigerant to cool the air which is then re-circulated in the building. The same air is then filtered as it returns to the unit. Key Facts of Conventional Air Conditioning Temperature can be controlled. Air is mostly recirculated within the space or building. The resultant energy performance of the system can be negatively impacted by high external temperatures, i.e., the hotter the external temperature the greater the amount of energy needed to run the unit and maintain the desired temperature. Complete systems are expensive to install and maintain due to the more complex requirements associated with the refrigerants used within the units. The cost to run large systems is expensive resulting in high and unpredictable energy bills. Chemical refrigerants are used ultimately negatively contributing to climate change. Conventional air conditioning cannot be said to be a bad choice however, in our experience, it is more suited to smaller spaces with a defined use. Office spaces would be a good example of where air conditioning systems can still be a good solution albeit without the benefit of reduced running costs. A fantastic sustainable alternative to conventional air conditioning is an evaporative cooling system. Historically championed in warmer climate countries, the technology delivers several benefits over and above conventional and familiar air conditioning. Evaporative Cooling Solutions Fresh, filtered air enters the system and is pulled through a cooling pad Reflecting on global history, examples of evaporative cooling can be seen as far back as 1350AD. One case describes how in Cairo, Egypt, a building was purposely situated up-wind, to catch the air and let it flow down the building and across a fountain which increased the relative humidity and lowered the temperature of the surrounding air. A fascinating early adoption of the evaporative cooling effect. Evaporative cooling systems as the name suggests use evaporation to cool the air; surprisingly no chemical refrigerants are involved in this process. Fresh, filtered air enters the system and is pulled through a cooling pad where the heat is absorbed. The resultant cooled air is distributed throughout the space via ducts. Key Facts of Evaporative Cooling Temperature and humidity can be accurately controlled. Indoor Air Quality (IAQ) is improved because of the introduction of 100% fresh outside air this in turn improves employee comfort, health, and well-being and supports good productivity. Cooling performance is improved with increasing external temperatures–efficiency rises along with the temperature. Initial capital outlay costs are relatively low, in comparison to a like-for-like conventional air conditioning system. Running costs are low, lowering energy bills and energy dependence. Based on the evaporation principle and using only water to cool, combined with the lack of chemical refrigerant make evaporative cooling a responsible, energy-efficient, and sustainable choice for cooling your industrial or commercial workplace. Lowering Carbon Footprint with Evaporative Cooling The carbon footprint is a method of determining environmental impact Lower your business carbon footprint with an evaporative cooling system. When measuring a carbon footprint, it’s the amount of carbon dioxide directly or indirectly produced. The carbon footprint is a method of determining environmental impact. If an industry appliance uses a low level of electricity, it minimizes the environmental impact. Evaporative cooling systems can contribute to lowering the carbon footprint of your factory and warehouse in the following ways: Evaporative cooling products can use up to 82% less energy compared with conventional air conditioning. This is a huge saving both initially and across a lifespan of more than 15 years. Evaporative coolers also consume up to 30% less water than conventional AC systems despite relying on water to provide evaporation for the cooling effect!  Addressing Industrial Hotspots In addition, industrial manufacturing workplaces often have hot spots that are uncomfortable to work in and those spaces are not just hotter than the rest of the building, but hotter than external ambient conditions. Evaporative cooling may be used to “spot cool” these hot spots and therefore reduce the need for the multiple units that would be needed to cool the entire space. Evaporative cooling is a proven technology perfect for all kinds of HVAC applications across multiple industries, this includes manufacturing plants and commercial warehouses. When cooling these large areas, evaporative cooling is repeatedly more cost-effective than traditional air conditioning. The primary benefit being the initial capital outlay to design and install the system is lower than conventional air conditioning. Secondly, the day-to-day running costs are again less owing to the reduced energy demand by the sophisticated technology used in these coolers. Unusually, these cost savings are also underpinned by the eco-friendly credentials of the technology, potentially contributing to reducing the carbon footprint of your business. This can be further enhanced by installing supportive clean energy technology such as solar power.

From temperate climates that reach mid-90 F in June and mild winters allowing people to be outdoors without jackets to the “May flowers” that bloom in early March, it’s evident that society is experiencing World Refrigeration Day’s 2024 theme: “Temperature matters.” In addition to driving climate change, global warming is driving changes in how people live and how industries adapt and innovate to support new dynamics. This is especially true for the HVACR Industry. Over the past several years, contractors have been busy installing and servicing cooling systems in climate zones that historically haven’t needed them. There’s a major focus on achieving more energy efficiency and lower water consumption in cooling the world’s escalating number of data centers.  Impact on HVACR Industry There’s also increased demand to conserve water in cooling towers and/or adiabatic condensers and for elevated indoor environmental quality (IEQ) to improve health and productivity. A few examples show how rising global temperatures are impacting the HVACR industry These few examples demonstrate how rising global temperatures are impacting the HVACR industry. Sharing a huge part of the spotlight of industry solutions are refrigerants, which now need to work harder than ever to keep people comfortable and foods, beverages, and pharmaceuticals at proper temperatures. And they must do so without contributing to global warming and other environmental concerns. Refrigerant priority #1: lower GWP Assessing refrigerants for their ability to address climate change concerns starts with their global warming potential (GWP). That’s why attention has turned to A2Ls, which offer significantly lower GWP than legacy refrigerants. The three “big players” in the A2L arena—R-454A, R-454B, and R-454C—are now being selected for new-generation equipment solutions in various HVACR applications. A look at GWP reduction in a sampling of these applications tells the story: R-454A and R-454C can provide a 94% to 96% reduction in GWP as an alternative for R-404A, while offering similar performance Applications that historically would use a new R-410A unit can transition to R-454B, resulting in a 77% reduction in GWP. The industry is also choosing HFO-1234yf, an A2L currently used in air conditioners in 95 million vehicles on U.S. roads. HFO-1234yf has an AR4 GWP of 4 and is also used as a blend component in Chemours A1 and A2L products. Although A2Ls are for new equipment only, lower-GWP A1 refrigerant solutions can help in retrofits. For most applications using a higher-GWP HFC in an existing system, there’s likely a lower-GWP HFC/HFO blend for retrofit applications Other refrigerant priorities Of course, the value of a refrigerant is based on more than just low GWP Of course, the value of a refrigerant is based on more than just low GWP. The true innovation in refrigerant development lies in striking the optimal balance between environmental impact and performance for a diversity of applications. For example, after developing what are now considered three major players in the future of refrigerants—Chemours Opteon™ XL40 (R-454A), Opteon™ XL41 (R-454B), and Opteon™ XL20 (R-454C)—our chemists remain in the labs and work with pioneering industry partners to lower GWP even more, without compromising other properties. It’s important to consider how well a refrigerant addresses several key factors: Low GWP and zero ozone depletion potential (ODP) Reduced energy consumption Circularity—the ability to be recovered, recycled, and reclaimed Lower operating costs over the lifetime of equipment Safety—for everyone from technicians to end users Overall performance—measured by capacity, reliability, and efficiency Can be serviced by a large existing workforce of trained technicians Responsible manufacturing focused on reducing carbon emissions Availability and supply chain strength A2L refrigerants have been designed with these factors in mind, raising the bar in terms of performance and support for environmental priorities. Addressing climate zone challenges In addition to solutions designed for today’s many residential, commercial, and industrial cooling and refrigeration applications, the industry needs a full toolbox of systems, components, and refrigerants to meet—in a highly efficient manner—the challenges of cooling and heating in various climate zones. These range from Zone 1, which is very hot, humid, and dry, to the subarctic Zone 8 ASHRAE divides the U.S. into eight major climate zones. These range from Zone 1, which is very hot, humid, and dry, to the subarctic Zone 8. In between these two extremes, we find various levels of heat/cold, humidity, and dryness. These climate zones provide system engineers with guidance for choosing the best designs—including refrigerant selection—so that each zone can be equipped with the appropriate system, optimized for year-round capacity, efficiency, reliability, and more. New-generation heat pumps For example, the high heat and humidity of a tropical climate put heavy demand on cooling equipment—from air conditioners to refrigeration systems. These cooling systems are likely to run most of the year, so choosing a highly energy-efficient option is paramount. By contrast, we have zones with overall colder ambient temperatures. Heat pumps must be properly sized to ensure occupant comfort. Cooling systems in these climates have limited use during the year, but they must perform reliably when needed. In climates where heating buildings take priority over cooling them, we’re finding a significant transition from traditional AC-only units to new-generation heat pumps. Heat pumps must be properly sized to ensure occupant comfort and keep the heat pump from “struggling” to control humidity when operated in AC mode. Choosing refrigerant solutions There is no question the world’s temperature is on the rise. According to the National Oceanic and Atmospheric Administration, since 1982, the rate of the Earth’s warming has risen approximately 0.36 F (0.20°C) per decade—more than three times the average rate of all previous decades measured. The 10 warmest years on record all occurred in the past decade. And 2023 was the warmest year on record for North America, South America, and Africa, as well as the second warmest for Europe. As climate change continues to warm up winters and heat up summers, refrigerants will play an increasingly important role in “cooling down” people and products and helping to reduce the impact that industry and society have on “heating up” the planet. Everyone can do their part by understanding that temperature matters, then choosing refrigerant solutions that have lower GWP, support other environmental needs, and offer the right combination of performance attributes for a given climate zone.

Advanced heating, ventilation, air-conditioning, and refrigeration (HVACR) systems have always been essential to healthcare. However, the need for clean, fresh air at the right temperature and humidity within clinical settings has never been made clearer during the COVID-19 pandemic. It illustrated the importance of effective HVACR systems in healthcare due to their ability to improve air quality, patient outcomes, and infection control measures.  The need for change  Many current HVACR systems are outdated. Their reliance on direct on-line motor connection and mechanical methods to regulate fans, pumps, and compressors leads to inefficient energy use, generating higher costs. However, switching from manual methods to variable speed drives (VSDs) to regulate motor speeds can save as much as 25% in HVACR energy use, reducing operational costs in the process, and improving air quality control. The adoption of advanced ultra-low harmonic VSDs also improves power network reliability and efficiency.  variable speed drives (VSDs) There’s the added benefit that the facility can save on the capital costs of the equipment and space VSDs also play a pivotal role in expanding the design capabilities of HVACR. One key advantage is their ability to over-speed fans within the system to cover higher loads than the system was designed for. This flexibility allows them to operate in extreme conditions and still meet the needs of the facility, without installing significantly oversized systems to cover these rare peak loads. There’s the added benefit that the facility can save on the capital costs of the equipment and space where it is installed.  The challenge of harmonic distortion While newer healthcare facilities may already be equipped with HVACR systems controlled by VSDs, older facilities may require significant upgrades. Some VSDs can introduce unwanted electrical disturbances to the facility network, called harmonics, which affect the performance of electrical equipment and lead to higher energy losses. Harmonics increase line current, meaning that when fitting VSDs, power cables, and other components might need to be re-sized to be able to accommodate it. Filtering and control mechanisms Advanced ultra-low harmonic VSDs are designed to mitigate the impact of harmonics on electrical systems To address this issue, advanced ultra-low harmonic VSDs are designed to mitigate the impact of harmonics on electrical systems. Ultra-low harmonic VSDs incorporate sophisticated filtering and control mechanisms to reduce harmonic distortion, ensuring the reliability and efficiency of electrical infrastructure within healthcare facilities, including medical equipment used to treat patients. They also mitigate the need for a larger refit and higher maintenance costs, while ensuring compliance with regulatory standards governing harmonics and electrical quality.  Understanding the crucial role of air quality  Maintaining high air quality standards within hospitals is essential to minimize the risk of healthcare-associated infections (HAIs) and ensure the safety of both patients and medical staff. Poor air quality can lead to higher concentrations of bacteria, viruses, and fungi in the air, significantly increasing the risk of HAIs. These infections can lead to prolonged hospital stays, compromising patient safety, and further increasing healthcare costs for patients and providers. This is exactly what the COVID-19 pandemic highlighted. Regulatory standards and guidelines Only advanced ventilation systems controlled by VSDs can fully deliver what’s required Given these significant risks associated with poor air quality, healthcare facilities are subject to stringent regulatory standards and guidelines governing indoor air quality. Compliance with these standards is essential, and only advanced ventilation systems controlled by VSDs can fully deliver what’s required.  Breathing easier In conclusion, advanced HVACR systems controlled by ultra-low harmonic VSDs are essential for healthcare facilities seeking to improve air quality and provide a healthier environment for patients and staff. They also enhance energy efficiency and optimize associated costs, while ensuring compliance with regulatory standards. Adopting these advanced drives offers improved medical equipment reliability, as they take care of power quality and minimize electrical disturbances in the facility's power network. Ultimately that leads to better patient outcomes and hospital operational efficiency.

SNAP Rule 26 marks an important milestone in the transition from commercial refrigeration to new refrigerants. The rule lists refrigerant substitutes that provide a spectrum of technological solutions to meet required performance, global warming potential (GWP), safety, and environmental standards.  SNAP stands for Significant New Alternatives Policy, a program by the U.S. EPA (Environmental Protection Agency) under the Clean Air Act. In general, the program aims to evaluate and regulate substitutes for ozone-depleting substances, considering their overall risks to both human health and the environment. Impact of SNAP Rule 26 Final SNAP Rule 26, Protection of Stratospheric Ozone, lists acceptable substitutes in commercial and industrial refrigeration. SNAP Rule 26 will be effective July 15, 2024. The incorporation by reference of certain material listed in the rule is approved by the Director of the Federal Register as of July 15, 2024. The incorporation by reference of certain material listed in the rule is approved by the Director of the Federal Register “To date, the SNAP program has provided a very effective framework for evaluation and approval in support of innovation and the transition to new technology,” says Andrew Pansulla, Technical Service Engineer, The Chemours Company, a global chemistry company that provides a range of refrigerant products. We asked Pansulla to elaborate further on the impact of SNAP Rule 26 and what lies ahead. Q: How will the Rule’s finalization impact various commercial refrigeration sectors? Pansulla: The rule’s finalization will impact commercial refrigeration in several ways. Areas, where impact will likely be seen, include providing more acceptable refrigerant options, adherence to updated standards, new equipment design standards, and the exemption of propane from the venting prohibition for refrigerated food processing and dispensing equipment. These impacts could trigger changes in operational, manufacturing, and environmental compliance strategies in the commercial refrigeration sectors. SNAP Rule 26 will enable the adoption of the listed substitutes, including Chemours Opteon™ refrigerants, with global warming potential (GWP) lower than existing refrigerants. This rule does not require any changes to existing equipment and will impact only new equipment that uses the specific substances referenced in the SNAP rule. Q: What is the outlook for additional requirements for safe handling and use of alternative refrigerants? What specific safety standards are expected or appropriate? Pansulla: As part of the comparative risk framework used by the EPA to assess new alternatives, the EPA considers and implements use conditions that will ensure the safe use of products. These use conditions rely upon existing safety standards (e.g., UL and ASHRAE) which are available at the time the rule is finalized. In the case of SNAP Rule 26, many of the use conditions require adherence to UL 60335-2-89 and ASHRAE-15-2022. These standards are reviewed and updated periodically to maintain relevance with the products subject to the standards. Q: What are any limitations of the use of A2L refrigerants under SNAP Rule 26? Pansulla: There are two main categories of limitations under SNAP Rule 26. The first, as mentioned above, is the adherence to specific safety standards that apply to refrigerants that are designated as mildly flammable (A2L). The second is based on the GWP of the refrigerant. In the case of the A2L refrigerants subject to SNAP Rule 26, the EPA imposed conditions on the type of equipment and specific circumstances in which the substitute may be used. For example, the EPA is permitting the use of R-454A in supermarket systems, but only on the high side of a cascade system, or when the refrigerant charge capacity is less than 200 pounds. Q: Which new-generation A2L refrigerants are fit for which commercial refrigeration applications? Pansulla: Under SNAP Rule 26, the EPA deems R-1234yf, R-1234ze(E), R-454C, R-455A, R-457A, and R-516A as acceptable subject-to-use conditions for various commercial refrigeration applications. This selection is primarily driven by these refrigerants having GWPs under 150. However, certain applications necessitate refrigerants with higher GWPs due to unique performance characteristics. For example, R-454B and R-32 were listed for industrial process refrigeration with exiting fluid temperatures below minus 30 degree Celsius because these two specific refrigerants have lower boiling points than the other six less-than-150-GWP alternatives. However, it is critically important to consider the additional use conditions when designing equipment with refrigerants that have a GWP greater than 150. Q: So various equipment needs different refrigerants? Pansulla: The EPA purposefully lists several different refrigerants in each application to allow for equipment manufacturers to consider a variety of different factors that go into refrigerant selection, such as energy efficiency, capacity, normal boiling point, temperature glide, cost, safety, and use conditions. There is no one-size-fits-all solution for the entire commercial refrigeration industry. Q: How can commercial refrigeration businesses achieve a smooth transition to A2Ls? Pansulla: Keys to a smooth transition to A2Ls include understanding what refrigerants the EPA has approved as acceptable substitutes under the SNAP program, the sector-based GWP limits imposed by the Technology Transitions Program under the American Innovation and Manufacturing (AIM) Act, and which refrigerants provide the best combination of technical performance and environmental characteristics. Many resources are available to navigate the regulatory landscape and select the best low-GWP refrigerants to meet the needs of this industry. Working with companies like Chemours, who has nearly a century of refrigerant innovation and experience, is a great first step in the transition process. Q: What is the “staying power” of A2Ls — based on their chemistry, sustainability, and other attributes, combined with regulations such as SNAP Rule 26? Pansulla: The identification, selection, and development of new refrigerants that deliver required performance while meeting increasingly stringent environmental standards is a challenging process. With the identification of certain hydrofluoroolefin-based (HFO) refrigerants as an alternative to meet these criteria came a new safety classification. These HFO-based refrigerants are classified as A2Ls. While slightly more flammable than existing hydrofluorocarbon-base (HFC) refrigerants, HFOs are much less flammable than hydrocarbons, which are classified as A3 (two categories higher on the ASHRAE flammability spectrum). Moreover, such refrigerants offer an excellent alternative to substances with higher toxicity, such as R-717. The listing of A2L refrigerants in SNAP Rule 26 clearly indicates that such refrigerants can be used safely in commercial refrigeration as well as many other applications, which are subject to the SNAP Program, when adhering to the applicable safety standards.

It takes a proliferation of data centers to serve the growing computing needs of the Internet, and all those servers churning away create plenty of heat. Might some of that heat be harnessed and used for residential or commercial heating? The emergence of district heating systems, which provide thermal energy to multiple buildings from a single source, demonstrates the approach has broad possibilities. Air-cooled chillers and air-handling units used to cool data centers are like the technologies that cool residences and businesses. They just operate on a larger scale and require a higher degree of resilience and redundancy to ensure data center servers operate without interruption. District heating system The law of physics dictates that the energy you put into a data server will come out as heat, and heat is a byproduct of data center cooling systems. Rather than exhaust that heat into the outside environment, how can it be captured and channeled into a district heating system to heat water and/or to provide warmth to homes and businesses in the same neighborhood as the data center? Law of physics dictates that the energy you put into a data server will come out as heat  Mitsubishi Electric designs engineered solutions that both cool data centers and generate heat output that can be captured for district heating applications. “We want to capture the heat and repurpose it for someone else to use,” says Simon Prichard, Product Strategy Manager for Engineered Solutions for Mitsubishi Electric. Reusing wasted heat from data centers can help to decarbonize heating. United Kingdom's Energy Act 2023 An additional heat pump can be used to increase the “low-grade heat” generated by a data center to the temperature needed for district heating. Alternatively, district heating systems might be upgraded to accommodate the lower-temperature heat from data centers. Additional heat pump can be used to increase the “low-grade heat” generated by a data center. The United Kingdom and other governments globally are promoting the creation of district heating networks. Legislation such as the United Kingdom's Energy Act 2023 identifies areas within England where certain new and existing buildings will be required to connect into district heating networks. Legislation is pushing developers toward district heating and away from the use of fossil fuels. District heating applications Water cooling is a developing technology for data centers, which mostly use air-cooling systems In November 2023, the UK government awarded £36 million to a district heating system in West London that will share data center waste heat with up to 10,000 new homes. Hot air from a data center can provide some of the energy needed for a district heating system, and water-cooling systems can provide even more. Water cooling is a developing technology for data centers, which mostly use air cooling systems. Cooperation is needed to realize the scenario of capturing the heat from data centers for district heating applications. Government legislation can drive requirements to embrace the approach, but the multiple involved parties, including data center operators and the architects and engineers creating nearby communities, must also cooperate. Greater ESG goals Energy must be reused in the geographic area immediately surrounding the data center for the scenario to be financially viable. In an industrial estate, for example, the excess heat could be used for nearby farming; the reuse is not restricted to domestic or residential applications. The various parties tend to be “siloed,” so a concerted effort of “joined-up thinking” is needed to bring all the parties to the table to enable such a system. Construction of new data centers is accelerating, and the centers are getting larger. Construction of new data centers is accelerating, and the centers are getting larger. Currently, 4 or 5% of total electricity output is used by data centers, and ways to reuse that energy are a growing priority for ethical companies in the data center market. Large companies that use data centers are drawn to the district heating scenario to achieve greater ESG (Environmental, Social, and Governance) goals. Moving forward, it behooves everyone to think of data centers as not just generating data but as energy centers generating sustainable energy. Mitsubishi Electric’s products MEWALL mixes high version with energy efficiency, space optimization, and cost-effectiveness “We live in a connected world, and we need data centers,” says Prichard. “The world won’t work without them, but many people don’t know what a data center is and how much we rely on them. Society doesn’t realize how embedded they are.” Among Mitsubishi Electric’s products for the data center market is the MEWALL air handling unit, a “wall” of fans with built-in controls, valves, and filters that are mounted alongside a suite of data servers. MEWALL combines high performance with energy efficiency, space optimization, and cost-effectiveness. Water circulates inside the fans, using cold water produced by a chiller. View of the MEWALL system Smaller data center needs can be addressed using technology such as Mitsubishi Electric’s indoor s-MEXT high-precision air conditioner connected to a Mr. Slim R32 Power Inverter outdoor unit. The indoor unit is customized to the client’s requirements for use in a data center.  At the Data Center World trade show in London in March, Mitsubishi Electric used virtual reality (VR) to provide attendees with a simulated view of the MEWALL system. Given the dimensions of 4 by 2.3 meters, transporting the system to the show presented prohibitive cost and logistical challenges.

Recently, nine states pledged to accelerate the transition to clean buildings in their states, including a goal of deploying heat pumps to make up 65% of residential heating, cooling, and water heating by 2030. California, Colorado, Maine, Maryland, Massachusetts, New Jersey, New York, Oregon, and Rhode Island signed a memorandum of understanding in February outlining their collective efforts to accelerate the deployment of clean technologies such as heat pumps in new and existing homes.  Benefits of heat pumps Fifteen percent of the world’s greenhouse gas emissions come from the heating and cooling of buildings and homes, and accelerating the use of heat pumps advances the goal of a cleaner, healthier environment.   “The door is closing on reasons to shy away from heat pumps because the technology is here, and the incentives and support from government programs are on the rise,” says Katie Davis, VP of Engineering and Technology at Trane Residential. “There is no better time than now to make the change for a more sustainable future.”  portfolio of residential heat pumps The new portfolio yields an emissions reduction of over 35% (compared to 2019), and the new 15 SEER heat pump Beginning this month, Trane Residential launches its new portfolio of residential heat pumps that achieve new levels of emissions reduction. The new portfolio yields an emissions reduction of over 35% (compared to 2019), and the new 15 SEER heat pump will meet Energy Star requirements.   “We saw the change in refrigerant regulation as an opportunity to propel us forward in technology toward a better environment,” says Davis.   Heat pump technology Heat pump technology has been around since the mid-1800s, and it has evolved significantly since that time. Within the last 10 years, improvements have been made in efficiency, in both the heating and cooling cycles. The use of vapor injection technology in the heating cycle has greatly improved the capacity and efficiency of heating with heat pumps.   Comfort mode Comfort mode provides a level of comfort similar to that of fossil fuel-burning furnaces Trane heat pumps also can deliver very warm air at the register through Comfort mode, which provides a level of comfort similar to that of fossil fuel-burning furnaces, says Davis. Homeowners who prefer furnaces due to the temperature of the discharge air have similar capabilities with Trane heat pumps.  Sustainability and efficiency Trane Technologies seeks to challenge what’s possible for a sustainable world, says Davis. “Sustainability is the foundation of how we design our products for the future of HVAC,” she says. Improvements in the efficiency of Trane Heat Pumps have a direct correlation to reduced emissions, which translates to energy savings on a homeowner’s utility bill.   Trane Link systems Other factors that assist in driving the transition to the electrification of heating are utility rebates The Trane Link systems provide up to an additional 5% energy savings to the homeowner using smart technology that efficiently manages the home load environment. Other factors that assist in driving the transition to the electrification of heating are utility rebates and a program that assists homeowners in making the shift.  Of course, "indirect emissions" and the greening of the grid have an impact on emissions as the industry moves toward the use of heat pumps and away from fossil fuel-burning systems. emissions reduction by design Trane is achieving industry-pioneering emissions reduction by design, and as the grid becomes greener, it will accelerate the impact the Trane portfolio will have on the industry and the environment, says Davis.  “At Trane, we utilize a multi-variable approach to reducing emissions in our product portfolio,” says Davis. “While a greener grid can help to accelerate the reduction in emissions, our systems utilize smart technology, lower global warming potential refrigerants, and improved efficiency in heating design to achieve industry-pioneering emissions reduction for our systems.”  alternative energy sources When designing for sustainability, several levers can be pulled to yield the best results Heat pumps play a role in encouraging more efficient energy sources. HVAC accounts for over 40% of the energy usage in a home. There is an opportunity for the development of capabilities in alternative energy sources for heating and cooling as well as improved energy management for the home. When designing for sustainability, several levers can be pulled to yield the best results. One of those levers is related to digital controls and smart systems.  Trane Link Variable Speed Trane Link Variable Speed Systems provide over 700 speeds to provide a pinpoint match to a homeowner’s load demand in a home. The system provides temperature control within 0.5 degrees F, humidity control to the exact setpoint defined by the homeowner, and provides up to 5% energy savings on utility bills.   By utilizing the digital technology within the control system, the heat pump manages comfort as well as efficiency to provide the best for the homeowner and the environment. For dealers, Trane provides Dealer Diagnostics that give precise information on runtime and system performance, in real time, to ensure the most optimal operating parameters for the best system performance and efficiency.  heat pump heating capability Two obstacles are cost and the customer perception of heat pump heating capability Two obstacles remain in the transition journey. They are cost and the customer perception of heat pump heating capability. “As we accelerate this transition, the time is now for utilities and government programs to step up and assist homeowners in electrification of heating,” says Davis. Inflation Reduction Act (IRA) funding is a step toward this assistance, but more is needed across the industry to ensure a rapid transition to cleaner equipment.   Consumer concerns In addition to cost, homeowners have not been properly educated on the advancement of heat pump technology over the last decade, and heating with heat pumps has improved significantly.  “The cost to convert from furnaces to heat pumps can be prohibitive, but with government incentives, like the IRA rebates, this becomes less of an issue,” says Davis. “Other concerns from consumers are energy bills and the concern that energy costs will rise with the use of heat pumps. While it is true that electric energy bills may rise, homeowners should see a reduced cost of use of other energy sources,” says Davis. “In the end, we move closer to parity.” 

Nearly Bergamo, Italy, there is a weather station that collects meteorological data and monitors air quality. Its operation requires professional equipment that, however, works without a permanent power supply or the presence of staff. Such conditions put the equipment and other assets at risk. In fact, the station had already suffered from several intrusion attempts and needed a security system to be put in place. Challenge Protect a remote object without a permanent power supply Like many remote objects, the weather station does not have a permanent power supply and cannot afford a full-time presence of staff members on the site. After several intrusion attempts, the client needed to secure an area of 600 square meters, prevent equipment theft, and put an end to the damage made to the agricultural produce growing on the site. They looked for a professional security system that could operate outdoors without mains power and was easy to manage remotely.  Solution Wireless outdoor security system with flexible power options and remote control The implemented security system consists of 11 Ajax devices, coupled with a third-party solar panel, battery, and case In response to the challenge, Von Wunster Next s.r.l. configured a solution for securing the object that has no permanent power source or staff on-site but has extensive sun exposure. The implemented security system consists of 11 Ajax devices, coupled with a third-party solar panel, battery, and case. At the core of the system, there is a Hub 2 (2G) Jeweller control panel with a low-voltage PSU 6V. The latter allows the hub to operate from an external 7 A h battery for years. The battery, in turn, is charged via the 25 W solar panel (10 A). If the external power supply fails, the hub switches to a built-in battery and continues to protect the object for up to 16 hours or even 60 hours if the Battery Power Saver feature is enabled. The client and central monitoring station of the security company instantly receive a notification about the power issue to be fixed. The company has enough time to get to the remote object for restoring power without compromising its security. A SIM card (2G) ensures connection with the network, so Von Wunster Next s.r.l. won’t miss a thing. StreetSiren DoubleDeck Other elements of the security system are wireless outdoor Ajax devices that operate with pre-installed batteries for up to 3 years. Several MotionCam Outdoor Jeweller cover the perimeter and detect movement within seconds. The device’s photo-by-alarm feature allows minimizing expensive patrol dispatches to false alarms and gives the client peace of mind. StreetSiren DoubleDeck activates the sound of up to 113 dB and bright LED indicators in response to an alarm to deter and expose intruders. Communication with the wireless devices is provided via Ajax proprietary radio protocols Jeweler and Wings at a distance of up to 2,000 m. It’s perfect for covering large areas such as that of the station. Ajax SpaceControl Jeweller key fobs Dealing with the security system is as easy as it gets for both the client and the security company The client can control security modes effortlessly. There are four end users with different rights, and they can manage the system in the Ajax app on their phones and with wireless Ajax SpaceControl Jeweller key fobs. Von Wunster Next s.r.l., which installed the system and conducts monitoring, can track the devices’ status and take care of their configuration and maintenance remotely in the majority of cases.  Dealing with the security system is as easy as it gets for both the client and the security company. All the devices are either weather-resistant or reliably hidden in the case to withstand the impacts of the environment. Constant exposure to rain or sun does not affect the security system. Why Ajax Flexible power supply options. Ajax's product portfolio includes PSUs designed to connect the system to a low-voltage power supply even when no permanent power source is available. Wireless Ajax devices operate with pre-installed batteries for up to 3 years. Visual alarm verification. With photo verification, system users and monitoring company operators can promptly verify whether an alarm is real and save costs on patrol dispatches. It is a particularly important feature for remote objects. Remote system management. The system can be managed, configured, and maintained through Ajax apps with no people present on-site, which is a cost-effective solution for a remote object. Products Hub 2 (2G) Jeweller - Security system control panel with support for photo verification MotionCam Outdoor Jeweller - Wireless outdoor motion detector with a photo camera to verify alarms 6V PSU for Hub 2/Hub 2 Plus/ReX 2 - Power supply unit for operation of the device from portable battery StreetSiren DoubleDeck Jeweller - Wireless outdoor siren with a clip lock for a branded faceplate Ajax SpaceControl Jeweller - A key fob for controlling security modes

When Harry Lau, Administrator for Facilities and Operations for the Livonia Public Schools, joined the district in 2013, he identified a significant need to improve the HVAC equipment throughout the entire school system. All 25 buildings, including schools and administration offices, had significant inefficiencies with their HVAC systems. The infrastructure was outdated and the horizontal unit ventilators that were in use were from the 1950s and 60s and were well beyond their life expectancy. The old units were prone to freezing, and there were control issues that further exacerbated the problem. Poor indoor air quality (IAQ) and inefficient temperature controls led to discomfort among staff and students, impacting the overall learning environment. His primary goal was to reduce the number of environmental air quality concerns, reduce district utility and maintenance costs, and improve the overall comfort and air quality throughout the system. The Solution To address these issues, Livonia Public Schools secured funds via a successful bond measure To address these issues, Livonia Public Schools secured funds through a successful bond measure. There were multiple contractors and manufacturers involved for the entire system upgrade, but for the classrooms specifically, the district chose to upgrade to Airedale by Modine Classmate® vertical units. Looking at the specifications of these units, Harry was certain the Classmate® would meet their needs.  The previous units had structural and design issues that led to multiple repairs, and Harry knew that they would have fewer maintenance issues with the Classmate® because of the way they are designed. They also chose to modernize control of the system by implementing a building management system allowing for real-time monitoring and centralized management of the HVAC systems across all buildings. The Results The HVAC system upgrades have resulted in dramatic improvements in IAQ and energy efficiency. The new systems have provided better temperature control, faster cooling, and heating, and have reduced energy consumption by 20%. The upgraded systems also led to a quieter environment, enhancing the learning experience. The ability to monitor and manage the HVAC systems in real time has allowed for proactive maintenance and further cost savings. Harry said he wanted the classroom instructors to have some anonymity with temperature control. While the set points follow ASHRAE recommendations, the units are equipped to give the teachers some control to bump the temperature up or down a few degrees to suit their comfort level and those of the students.  "With partners like Modine, they opened our eyes on ways of doing things," said Harry Lau, adding "It has been refreshing to actually be heard by the professionals." Implementation of HVAC upgrades Livonia Public Schools has been recognized by the U.S. DOE’s Efficient and Healthy Schools Program Because of their commitment to improving IAQ and energy efficiency, Livonia Public Schools has been recognized by the U.S. Department of Energy’s Efficient and Healthy Schools Program. This program recognizes and assists school districts seeking to implement high-impact indoor air quality and efficiency improvements. They were honored for optimizing their operations to improve building performance. The district was also recognized by the city as a green energy partner. Harry said that the classroom learning environments have been dramatically updated and they have seen a significant improvement. The consistent modulation of the fresh air has been greatly noticed. Livonia Public Schools’ proactive approach to HVAC upgrades A huge point of pride for the district was being able to confidently inform their staff and parents that they were ahead of the curve in ensuring quality indoor air once students and staff were able to return to indoor classroom learning during the COVID-19 pandemic.  Livonia Public Schools’ proactive approach and successful implementation of HVAC upgrades have set a benchmark for other districts aiming to improve their learning environments through better air quality and energy efficiency.

To offset the cost of tenants’ monthly electric bills and provide prospective residents with high-quality HVAC upgrades that prioritize comfort and performance, Samuels Associates, owner of the Fenway Triangle luxury apartments, sought a new, building-wide heating solution that was not only cost-effective but also added a modern touch to the building’s extravagance. QMark® MUH-Pro+ and CU900 electric heaters with SmartSeries® Plus (SSP) digital BACnet thermostats from Goodyear HVAC Sales proved to be the ideal solution. Heat in a contemporary design “From their energy efficiency, quiet operation and low maintenance to the fact that they can be controlled individually for personalized comfort, electric heaters offer several benefits in apartment buildings,” explained Andrew Martin, Manager of Product Management with Marley Engineered Products® (MEP). “Delivering supplemental comfort heat in a contemporary design, these heaters are ideal for a variety of spaces including school hallways, church vestibules, transportation terminals, stairwells, entrances, lobbies, mechanical rooms and more.”  Installing Heaters while Maintaining esthetics Buildings boast modern frills and discreet and esthetically good HVAC plans that act quietly Steps away from the iconic Fenway Park, the Fenway Triangle is an 891,000-square-foot complex comprising more than 570 luxury apartment units, as well as an eclectic mix of national and local retailers, restaurants, shops and green spaces. Since opening in 2006, the building needed to address issues with its HVAC systems and controls, which were leading to high monthly electric bills. The culprit? More than 50 outdated competitor electric terminal heaters, which offered only on/off controls and needed to be operated manually. If the maintenance team forgot to shut off the heaters, "The Fenway" would incur the cost of each heater running at full capacity at a rate of about 27 cents per kilowatt-hour. Another challenge facing Fenway Triangle: The emergence of new luxury apartment complexes. These buildings boast modern amenities and discreet and esthetically pleasing HVAC systems that operate quietly. They pose significant competition for “The Fenway”, as tenants increasingly prioritize indoor air quality (IAQ) and HVAC performance when selecting their luxury residences. To remain competitive in the luxury apartment market, investing in HVAC upgrades to replace outdated equipment is imperative. QMark MUH-Pro+ and CU900 electric heaters  Heaters were installed in elevator banks, stairwells, worker lounges, hallways, and facility To combat the rising cost of heating each unit within the building, MEP’s local Sales Representative, Goodyear HVAC Sales, worked with HVAC distributor Equipment Direct Sales, Inc. (EDSI) to provide the client with energy-efficient QMark MUH-Pro+ and CU900 electric heaters from Marley Engineered Products. Designed to maintain occupant comfort and a comfortable environment, the heaters were installed in various elevator banks, stairwells, employee lounges, hallways and inside the building’s recently upgraded building management system (BMS) room.  “Equipped with SSP digital thermostats that provide connections to BACnet MS/TP BMS for easy control and monitoring, the MUH-Pro+ and CU900 units only run when directed by the internal schedule of the BMS,” said Matthew Goodrich, President of Goodyear HVAC Sales. “Use of the BMS saves time and reduces personnel costs by eliminating the need to travel to the heater site. And, if a BMS is not available, the maintenance team can simply use the built in seven-day programmable scheduling feature.”  New electric heating units Cost-Effective Heat for Unmatched Comfort and Lower Monthly Bills In tandem with EDSI, Goodrich and his team installed several brand-new electric heating units in The Fenway’s BMS room to provide cost-effective warmth without taking up floor space or creating a tripping hazard.  “Innovation and collaboration converged as we tailored a custom heating solution, seamlessly blending functionality and aesthetics,” explained Goodrich. “In fabricating this solution for the client, our dedicated team and the coordination of skilled contractors transformed this building into a space that harmonizes comfort and elegance and exemplifies the blending of form and function.”  Full control of the entire heating system The thermostats include features that allow the building’s maintenance team to monitor each heater The success of the project resulted in an extremely satisfied customer. Already, the SSP thermostats have provided cost savings by turning on the heaters only when needed, resulting in less electricity usage throughout The Fenway. Additionally, the thermostats include features that allow the building’s maintenance team to monitor each heater individually from within the BMS room, granting them full control of the entire heating system and eliminating the daily trips previously needed to turn each heater on and off.  “We’re already seeing the savings associated with the upgraded controls,” said John Belmonte, Head of Trilogy Operations for the Fenway Triangle. “Being able to control over 40 heaters locally allows our team to focus on tenant needs without being bogged down by the time it takes to touch each individual unit. We’re eager to work further with the Goodyear team on other buildings in the neighborhood.” Innovative approach and exceptional achievements To acknowledge the innovative approach and exceptional achievements demonstrated by the Goodyear team in overcoming the challenges faced during this project, Marley Engineered Products awarded Goodrich the 2024 Jim Herring Memorial Silver Fox Award at its recent national sales meeting. “This award for excellence in solution design embodies the spirit of Herring, who left a lasting legacy of designing creative solutions for specialized applications, was always up for a challenge and most happy when solving a unique heating or ventilation problem,” said Sean Pesce, Director of Sales for Marley Engineered Products. “Matthew and his team at Goodyear perfectly captured Jim’s talent for finding creative solutions to the most complex issues and left a lasting impression on the client.”

Mulberry’s of Beaconsfield is a prestigious salon spa set in the stunning Chiltern Hills. It is known for its high-end bespoke treatments and faced a significant HVAC challenge during a peak summer heatwave. The compressor on the multi-split air conditioning condenser supplying numerous treatment areas failed, risking the comfort and satisfaction of their discerning clients. SFE Services, a Buckinghamshire-based HVAC service provider, stepped in to offer an efficient and time-critical repair. Installation and compressor challenges Mulberry's internal fit-out, had included the installation of the air conditioning system before SFE Services' involvement. When the compressor failure occurred, it was crucial to address it promptly to maintain the business’s operational standards. SFE Services responded the same day, showcasing its commitment to customer service. The team provided knowledgeable advice. They suggested repairing the existing unit instead of opting for a new and costly re-installation. While new installations are sometimes necessary, SFE Services demonstrated that repairs can be a more sustainable and economical choice when feasible. seamless and efficient services  SFE Services sourced the necessary equipment within the same week and conducted the repairs SFE Services sourced the necessary equipment within the same week and conducted the repairs out of regular business hours to avoid any disruption. Mulberry’s operates from 9 am to 8 pm so the work needed to be done without affecting trading hours. The SFE Services team’s dedication was evident as they arrived on site at 6:00 am and even provided key management to open the premises early in the morning, ensuring the work was completed seamlessly and efficiently. air conditioning and air quality In a spa setting, air conditioning and air quality are vital for ambiance, client comfort, and product efficacy. Mulberry needed a working system to create a tailored atmosphere for various treatments. For instance, when clients relax body temperature decreases so it is often preferred to have a warm environment during massages. For waxing, cooler air is essential to obtain the best treatment results. ventilation Also, proper ventilation is necessary to remove unpleasant fumes in the air while using certain products such as acetone. The ability to control the air quality and temperature not only enhances the client's experience but also serves as a unique selling point for the business. The presence of air conditioning & ventilation becomes especially noticeable when it is absent, underlining its importance. benefits of air conditioning system Clients can enjoy a comfortable setting for treatments like body massages, which might otherwise be unappealing Mulberry highlighted the benefits of having a reliable air conditioning system. It can offer a perfect environment tailored to each client's needs, even during a summer heatwave. This capability sets them apart from competitors, as clients can enjoy a comfortable setting for treatments like body massages, which might otherwise be unappealing in hot weather. customer-focused HVAC solutions SFE Services intervention at Mulberry’s of Beaconsfield exemplifies their commitment to providing timely, knowledgeable, and customer-focused HVAC solutions. SFE Services' ability to work around the salon’s long hours, coupled with their expertise in offering economical options, highlights their position as a trusted service provider in the HVAC industry.

To adequately heat the 111 Murray Street residential skyscraper in New York, the owner sought an effective way to maintain the aesthetic of the mostly glass building without being obtrusive to its design. Custom convection style heaters, mounted in the building’s millwork by Faber Industrial Technologies, proved to be the game-changing resolution. “Convection heaters provide warmth and heat to a specific area or room by circulating air and heating it using a highly efficient electric element,” explained Andrew Martin, Manager of Product Management with Marley Engineered Products. He adds, “Designed for quiet, controlled comfort, they are ideal for both residential and commercial applications, including living rooms and bedrooms, offices, hallways, lobbies, conference rooms, retail stores and buildings with floor-to-ceiling windows.” Installing heaters while maintaining aesthetics 111 Murray Street is a 792-foot-tall residential skyscraper with 156 luxury condominiums Located in the Financial District and Tribeca neighborhoods in Lower Manhattan, 111 Murray Street is a 792-foot-tall residential skyscraper with 156 luxury condominiums and 2,100 square feet of retail space on the ground floor. Due to mechanical constraints exacerbated by the building’s slim design, hot water was not available in most of the upper residences, rendering hydronic heating systems impractical. Therefore, the client requested Berko ASL3 convector heaters from Marley Engineered Products to be installed for elegant, supplemental comfort for heat loss, condensation prevention and continuous warmth throughout each condo. The challenge, however, came from their preference to keep the heaters hidden for aesthetic reasons. “The varying heights and angles of the millwork in each condo limited our ability to install the heaters directly where we wanted them,” said Christopher Smith, a Heater Manufacturing Representative with Faber Industrial Technologies, adding “Therefore, we needed a custom design that enabled us to mount the heaters properly while also keeping them out of sight.” Hidden Heat for Unmatched Comfort and Elegance The solution involved fabricating and supplying custom dual inlet convector heaters, which were then mounted within the millwork of each condominium unit. Using a thermocouple array, the engineering team at Marley tested the Berko ASL3 convectors – at 125 watts per foot and 120V – inside a customer-supplied demo millwork section sent from New York City. After making some adjustments to the design, thermal couplers were utilized on both the heaters and their enclosures to ensure their surface temperatures were within Marley Engineered Products’ limits to pass a UL site inspection. Berko ASL3 convector heaters The result was an ‘invisible solution’ in which none of the controls or heaters could be seen in the residential units Next, Smith coordinated with the electrical and mechanical contractors on-site to fit the heaters into each condo’s temperature control system using power relays. The result was an ‘invisible solution’ in which none of the controls or heaters could be seen in the residential units. “Innovation and collaboration converged as we tailored a custom heating solution, seamlessly blending functionality and aesthetics,” explained Christopher Smith, adding “In fabricating this ‘invisible solution’ for the client, our dedicated team and the coordination of skilled contractors transformed these condos into spaces that harmonize comfort and elegance and exemplify the blending of form and function.” Berko ASL3 convector heaters The success of the project not only resulted in an extremely satisfied customer, but also left the contractors pleased with the uninterrupted delivery and installation of the heaters. They were further impressed when the custom heater and millwork system passed the UL site inspector’s test after just one evaluation. To acknowledge the innovative approach and exceptional achievements demonstrated by the Faber team in overcoming the challenges faced during this project, Marley Engineered Products awarded Smith the 2023 Jim Herring Memorial Silver Fox Award at its recent national sales meeting. Solving unique heating or ventilation problems “This award for excellence in solution design embodies the spirit of Herring, who was always up for a challenge and most happy when solving a unique heating or ventilation problem,” said Sean Pesce, Acting Director of Sales for Marley Engineered Products. He adds, “Chris and his team perfectly captured Jim’s talent for finding creative solutions to the most complex issues and left a lasting impression on the client.”

When the Florida Keys Aqueduct Authority opens its upgraded desalination plant on Stock Island, Danfoss high-pressure pumps and energy recovery devices will radically improve the energy efficiency of a SWRO plant that plays a central role in the Florida Keys water supply strategy.   The Florida Keys Aqueduct Authority (FKAA) supplies 20 million gallons of potable water per day (75.7k m3/d) to its nearly 80,000 customers in the Florida Keys. While most of the water is normally sourced in aquifers, FKAA also operates two seawater reverse osmosis (SWRO) plants for emergency purposes and as a supplemental supply in periods of high demand. FKAA initiated the SWRO plant upgrade FKAA initiated the upgrade of one of these plants, the Kermit H. Lewin Water Treatment Plant located on Stock Island, to increase its capacity, make it more resilient to hurricanes and rising flood levels, and improve its energy efficiency. Since opening in 1980, not only have guidelines for storm protection of such critical infrastructure changed significantly, so has the potential to save on the energy required by desalination. Designed to withstand future floods and hurricanes With sustained winds above 157 mph, such storms can cause severe damage to everything in their path To improve resiliency to extreme weather events in the low-lying Florida Keys, the entire site and facility have now been upgraded to withstand Category 5 hurricanes, the most dangerous level of tropical storms. With sustained winds above 157 mph (252 kph), such storms can cause severe damage to everything in their path. Accordingly, the refurbished facility lifts all electrical and mechanical equipment above the base flood elevation and the expected sea-level rise anticipated by 2060, effectively placing the plant’s desalination operations on stilts to mitigate the risk of severe flooding. improve the plant’s energy efficiency Another key goal of the upgrade was to improve the plant’s energy efficiency at the same time as doubling its production capacity from 2 MGD (7,500 m3/d) to 4 MGD (15,000 m3/d). To bring the refurbished plant up to date and reduce its financial and environmental costs, Carollo, a major U.S. engineering firm specializing in water and wastewater facilities, specified the latest axial-piston high-pressure pumps to replace legacy centrifugal pumps and swapped out old turbines for the newest active isobaric energy recovery technology. Upgraded plant to consist of four RO trains This innovative high-pressure setup dramatically reduces the plant’s energy needs This innovative high-pressure setup dramatically reduces the plant’s energy needs. In the new Kermit H. Lewin Water Treatment Plant being built by Biwater, a world pioneer in water treatment, the RO process-specific energy consumption will be slashed from 25.6 kW/kgal (6.77 kWh/m3) to 8.6 kW/kgal (2.27 kWh/m3). With this improvement, the new plant will be among the most energy-efficient in its class, with significantly reduced electricity bills and greenhouse gas emissions. The upgraded plant will consist of four RO trains, each of which includes two Danfoss APP 86 high-pressure pumps and three Danfoss iSave 70 ERDs. Improvement in energy efficiency In addition to the dramatic improvement in energy efficiency, configuring each train with parallel high-pressure pumps provides additional resilience and other benefits: the smaller pumps are easier to lift and work on, and it is now affordable to keep a spare pump in stock. The new improved plant will come online in Q4 2024. The new Kermit H. Lewin Water Treatment Plant is located just north of the existing plant. Construction began in Q3 2021 and will be completed by Q2 2024. The plant is expected to be fully operational by Q4 2024.

The HVAC market is a rapidly changing environment on a variety of fronts, from the introduction of new refrigerants to the increasing use of artificial intelligence to the embrace of interconnected systems in the Internet of Things (IoT) environment. We asked our Expert Panel Roundtable: How will the HVAC market change in the next five years?

For schools, improving indoor air quality (IAQ) is a basic function of HVAC systems, which also ensures a high comfort level for students, teachers and staff. Schools can be a lucrative market for HVAC systems, but there are challenges, such as long sales cycles and the lingering impact of the COVID-19 pandemic. We asked our Expert Panel Roundtable: What are the challenges for HVAC in serving the education/schools market?

A long list of regulatory and environmental trends is determining the future of the HVAC industry. Some trends will have an immediate impact, while others will come in force years from now, although the complexity of the industry requires that manufacturers and installers start planning now. We asked our Expert Panel Roundtable: What regulatory or environmental trend will have the greatest impact on the HVAC market?