Safety standards

The LSAH 44.3 incorporates an optimized heat recovery system directly connected to the heating circuit, enabling it to reach leading electrical and thermal efficiency values. The LSAH 44.3 has been designed to be packaged into small natural gas generator sets built for combined production of heat and electricity. The main application of these gensets are residential and public buildings central heating. In order to maximize the heat recovery process, the LSAH 44.3 has been designed with a high-performance liquid cooling circuit that connects directly to the heating piping system. The LSAH 44.3 has therefore also been optimized and qualified to operate at high temperature, with a maximum operating temperature set at 80° C. The LSAH 44.3 delivers a rated power between 50 and 94 kVA at 50 Hz in continuous service (from 62 to 117 kVA at 60 Hz). heat recovery system The alternator is fitted as standard with an AREP excitation system and a D350 regulator The alternator is fitted as standard with an AREP excitation system and a D350 regulator. Paralleling with the public network for the resale of electricity production surplus is also possible. Thanks to its cooling and heat recovery system, the LSAH 44.3 offers top performance, especially in situations of intensive use: The electrical efficiency reaches 97% and generally remains above 95%. These high values allow optimized operation and quicker profitability. Thanks to the optimized cooling system, the lifespan of the machine is increased and allows intensive operation of the system without any risk of failure due to hotspots. Water cooling also allows the use of the LSAH 44.3 in non-ventilated - and silent - generator sets, making their integration in buildings much easier with and without noise pollution for the neighborhood. limit generated vibrations From a mechanical point of view, the LSAH 44.3 offers two-bearing or single-bearing coupling and regreasable bearings. The machine structure has also been strengthened and stiffened for better resistance to vibrations caused by gas engines, and the machine itself has been optimized to limit generated vibrations. Other alternators using the same technologies will be gradually introduced by Nidec Leroy-Somer, fleshing out a complete range covering all market requirements. "This alternator is a real innovation" said Franck Broussard, Project Manager "We really focused our design efforts on the integration of the alternator as a component in a system, thinking about ways to optimize the global thermal and electrical performance. The result is a product that fully meets market expectations." efficient power solutions The LSAH 44.3 offers compatibility with the most demanding Grid Codes or network requirements The LSAH 44.3 also offers great versatility. As a synchronous machine, it allows both network paralleling and island modes. This is an additional advantage compared to asynchronous products traditionally used on this market. The LSAH 44.3 offers compatibility with the most demanding Grid Codes or network requirements. Leroy-Somer Electric Power Generation Europe and Asia Pacific (EPGE), a business unit of the Nidec Group, is one of the leaders in industrial alternators with power ranging from 10kW to 25MW, focusing on Europe, Asia and Africa markets. With its two renowned brands, Leroy-Somer and Kato Engineering, EPGE works with generator set manufacturers and electric power producers in these areas to help the industry provide reliable and efficient power solutions. comprehensive motor manufacturer EPGE has over 2,000 employees, 7 production sites worldwide and a global service network. Nidec, the parent company of Nidec Leroy-Somer Holding, was established in Kyoto, Japan in 1973 by its Chairman and CEO Shigenobu Nagamori. In 1979, Nidec became the first company in the world to successfully commercialize a direct drive spindle motor for HDDs based on a brushless DC motor. Since then, the company has grown into a renowned comprehensive motor manufacturer encompassing more than 300 subsidiaries employing over 100,000 people throughout the world and with annual sales exceeding €11B. Nidec's motors, drives, generators and related products are found in a diverse range of applications including computers, smartphones, home appliances, automobiles, manufacturing plants, robots and more.

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

Consumer advise experts at The Heating Hub have warned consumers not to get ‘hooked’ on the latest technologies in the drive to reduce carbon emissions, stating that they should focus on selecting the most appropriate system for their household requirements. The UK Government recently announced ambitious plans to install 600,000 heat pumps per year by 2028 and has committed to phasing out natural gas boilers in new build homes by 2025. Decarbonizing homes Decarbonizing homes is a top priority and heat pumps and hydrogen could be significant breakthroughs" Jo Alsop, Founder of The Heating Hub, said “Decarbonizing homes is a top priority and advancements such as heat pumps and hydrogen could be significant breakthroughs. However, such technologies will not be appropriate for every property. Consumers need to be very careful not to buy into the latest ‘trend’ but rather to get a clear specification on what will be the most efficient and effective solution for their homes and to ensure that whatever the heat source, it runs at its peak efficiency.” Jo adds, “It doesn’t matter how good the technology is on paper; if the installation is inadequate the heating system won’t operate at peak efficiency and the potential economic and environmental benefits will never be fully realized. Many air source heat pump owners have suffered high fuel bills because the technology was unsuitable for their home and/or it was poorly specified.” Strategy to decarbonize heating According to the National Grid, heating accounts for 20% of UK emissions, making it imperative that the UK finds low carbon sources of fuel in order to meet net zero targets by 2050. Jo continued, stating “Specifying regulations for new build properties is just the tip of the iceberg. We urgently need a strategy to decarbonize heating for the 27.5 million homes with existing gas boilers. While heat pumps are incredibly efficient, they are not suitable for many smaller or older properties, which will struggle to find space for air source heat pumps and the larger radiators they require.” Hydrogen boilers The next ten years will need to see a huge, national program of whole-house retro-fitting Hydrogen boilers are also being considered as a viable option, but as hydrogen uses fossil fuels or electricity in its production, its long-term viability is far from proven. The next ten years will need to see a huge, national program of whole-house retro-fitting, whereby homes will need to be highly insulated to reduce their heat requirement to a minimum. This is sure to open up more opportunities for low carbon technologies to heat homes as energy requirements will be lower. The Heating Hub believes the key is bringing in renewable heating technologies at a natural point of replacement and to concentrate on reducing heat requirement and making homes more energy efficient. Transitioning to zero carbon boilers The consumer website has analyzed the heating options available for a variety of property types and set out a roadmap for how each property could transition to zero carbon boilers. 2-3 bed mid-terrace Victorian house – 2020-2030: 300mm loft insulation, floor insulation, double or triple glazing and sealing doors/windows from drafts. Correctly set-up (hydrogen- ready) gas boiler with load or weather compensation controls to run at A-rated efficiencies. 2025-2035: External wall insulation for the whole terrace with mechanical heat recovery ventilation to prevent overheating. Solar PV panels (to create electricity) with battery storage and/or solar thermal panels either of which can be used to heat the home. 2035-2040: Replacement of gas boiler at the end of its natural life with standalone air source heat pump (space permitting) or a fully hydrogen boiler should the technology prove viable. 3-4 bed 1930s-1950s semi - 2020-2030: 300mm loft insulation, cavity wall insulation or external wall insulation with mechanical heat recovery ventilation, floor insulation (where the property has suspended timber floors), double or triple glazing and sealing doors/ windows from drafts. Correctly set-up (hydrogen ready) gas boiler with load or weather compensation controls to run at A-rated efficiencies. 2025-2035: Replacement of gas boiler at the end of its natural life with air source heat pump, solar PV panels (to create electricity) and/or solar thermal panels (to generate hot water). 4-5 bed detached or semi 2000 onwards - 2020-2030: Retrofit as necessary (some homes not built to A-rated standards), 300mm loft insulation, cavity wall insulation or external insulation, mechanical heat recovery ventilation and double or triple glazed windows and doors. 2025-2035: Air source heat pump, solar PV and/or solar thermal panels. Blocks of flats - Flats will require a whole-block approach to insulation, with the costs most likely split between the freeholder and flat owner. Combined heat and power units that produce heating and electricity are a great option for decarbonizing heat. Alternatively, electric boilers can be used in some circumstances. While they are not classed as renewable, they do have the potential to run on 100% renewable electricity. Solar panels with back-up electric immersion One option to reduce emissions in the short term is to add hydrogen to our gas supplies and this is being tested" For small UK homes, Jo hopes there is a simpler solution. He states, “I would hope that the heat requirement for smaller and older properties could be reduced sufficiently that an array of solar panels with a back-up electric immersion that uses renewably generated electricity. The reality is that the ‘silver bullet’ technology may not have been invented yet.” Jo continues, “One option to reduce emissions in the short term is to add hydrogen to our gas supplies and this is being tested. New gas boilers that are setup to run efficiently on hydrogen mixes are a good short-term step to decarbonizing small, older homes, delivering net emissions reductions of around 10%. Furthermore, the existing gas grid can also be utilized for distribution, reducing expenditure on new infrastructure.” Using hydrogen gas and renewable energy sources Hydrogen gas is made by splitting water into hydrogen and oxygen, and renewable energy sources can be used to further reduce emissions. The gas can be mixed with natural gas and burnt in a similar way, releasing water without greenhouse gas emissions. However, generating hydrogen is currently an energy intensive process and should be limited to homes that cannot accommodate a heat pump in the future. Heat pumps Heat pumps offer many advantages over conventional gas boilers, as they work at high efficiencies and, if set up correctly, can generate 3-4 units of energy for every one unit of electricity they use. However, they are expensive to install and require space in the home for the heat pump unit and a hot water tank. The environmental cost of production of the heat pumps and shipping across the world must be factored into decision making. Jo concludes, “New technologies will play a big part in reducing the UK’s emissions, but it is vital that the specification for any new boiler is appropriate to the household’s heating requirements. The options available to consumers are going to change dramatically over the coming years, as new technologies become more mainstream and widely deployed, and it is important that householders understand which option would best meet their requirements.”

Johnson Controls, the global front-runner for smart and sustainable buildings and the architect of OpenBlue connected solutions, has opened its new, state-of-the-art Ducted Systems Academy in Oklahoma City, OK, offering world-class commercial and residential HVAC training. The first-of-its-kind 30,000 square-foot training facility features two large classrooms and two extensive training labs, offering remote and hands-on classes, including virtual reality training. Real-Life Experience The virtual reality training places students in real-life field conditions, such as on a roof servicing a large commercial rooftop unit, or in a residential home installing a gas furnace or air conditioning system. This simulates real-life experiences without having to be in close physical contact with the instructor. Training The Next Generation “It’s estimated that by 2028, 4.6 million manufacturing jobs will be left unfilled, with more than half due to retirements,” said Scott Nelmark, Director, Ducted Systems Learning & Development, Johnson Controls. “In order to help fill this gap, Johnson Controls remains dedicated to training the next generation of the HVAC workforce, which the Ducted Systems Academy will help fuel through cutting-edge training.” Finest Practices & Tools For Success At the Academy, training is provided for technical, sales, leadership, and professional development disciplines. Participants learn the finest practices and tools for success in the HVAC industry, including how to: Partner with customers and understand their needs to best position products and services to win their business Properly select and apply Ducted Systems products Efficiently install, set up, and service Ducted Systems equipment from 1.5 to 150 tons of capacity Manage their schedule and their team of employees Work through difficult situations, such as disruptions related to COVID-19 Virtual Courses Due To COVID-19 Johnson Controls increased the number of remote courses offered and launched LabStreaming courses Due to COVID-19 restrictions, Johnson Controls increased the number of remote courses offered and launched LabStreaming courses. During these live virtual classes attended by hundreds of customers each session, distance learners are provided instruction as if they were present in the lab. For technical courses, procedures are demonstrated on live residential and commercial equipment, with participants able to ask questions and engage with the instructor in real-time. Recommendation “I have never seen competitors' equipment unless it was installed already in a home. Being able to stack them up side-by-side and compare the pros and cons made me feel much better about the competition that’s out there,” said Shannon Easton, Comfort Specialist, B. Carlson Heating Cooling and Plumbing, when discussing a Ducted Systems Academy equipment course. “I believe in Johnson Controls and this course solidified it for me. I would recommend this to any salesperson in the industry.” Training Labs And Classrooms In-person classes, which are limited to nine students each, are also provided in the two large training labs and classrooms, where masks and social distancing are required. The training labs feature all residential and commercial equipment that is manufactured at Johnson Controls facilities in Norman, OK, and Wichita, KS, for YORK®, Luxaire®, Coleman®, Champion®, TempMaster®, and Fraser-Johnston®. For residential, this includes all gas furnaces, air handlers, heat pumps, air conditioning systems, and packaged equipment. The commercial systems used in the training center range from smaller 3-6 ton packaged rooftop units to the newly expanded 25-80-ton Premier platform. Fully Functional Equipment’s All equipment is fully functional for hands-on training. This is a unique industry differentiator, that allows learners to conduct product start-ups, practice diagnostic procedures, and become comfortable with all facets of product operation in a safe, controlled environment.

Semco Maritime has won a study to identify the break-even point of HVDC and HVAC transmission for a large-scale offshore wind farm. Large-scale offshore wind farms are trending up in size as well as distance from connection onshore these days. A key technological aspect that is heavily influenced by this change is the transmission system, i.e. the technology used to transmit the generated wind power to the connection point onshore. This topic is the backbone of the study that Semco Maritime has won. The scope of the study is to evaluate the break-even point of an alternating current (HVAC) transmission design versus that of a direct current (HVDC) transmission design in two dimensions. The first dimension is the size of the wind farm (power output) and the second dimension is the distance to the connection point onshore. The output of the study will be technical concepts and life cycle costs for both solutions, i.e. capital investment needed and operational expenditures for the life time of the asset. wind transmission systems Semco Maritime has been part of the offshore wind transmission industry since the early 2000s Semco Maritime has been part of the offshore wind transmission industry since the early 2000s through engineer-procure-construct (EPC) projects with long-term partners Bladt Industries and ISC Consulting Engineers, as well as through offshore engineering studies related to high-voltage transmission, offshore foundation, substation structures, geotechnical assessments and high-voltage sea cabling. “We are very proud to have been selected for this exciting study as we recognize the increased need for performing these crucial evaluations at the very early concept stage of large-scale offshore wind farms located far off the coast”, says Tommy Flindt, Director of Engineering & Technology, Offshore Wind, Semco Maritime. “Given our 18+ years of experience within offshore wind transmission systems, we are confident that we can deliver this study with the needed accuracy, providing the input required for the right business decision-making for our client.”

Carrier Global Corporation, a global provider of healthy, safe and sustainable building and cold chain solutions, is proud to announce that Wabash Plastics has joined the Carrier Alliance program and signed a strategic long-term agreement with Carrier. Wabash will supply a wide array of injection molded components and assemblies for use across Carrier's Residential HVAC portfolio. Rapidly changing requirements "We are excited to expand our strategic relationship and collaboration with Wabash and welcome them to the Carrier Alliance program," said Ed Dunn, Vice President, Supply Chain, Carrier. "We've worked together for decades, and Wabash has always had an unrelenting focus on quality, service and cost excellence. Wabash's consistent quality and on-time delivery remains best-in-class, helping Carrier to deliver for our customers and adapt to rapidly changing requirements." Wabash has been a supplier to Carrier for more than 20 years in North America Wabash has been a supplier to Carrier for more than 20 years in North America. Wabash manufactures assemblies and other components which are critical to Carrier's 90% high-efficiency gas furnaces and heating systems produced in Indianapolis. These energy-efficient heating units offer great appeal to homeowners interested in advanced technology for reducing energy costs and environmental impact. Carrier Alliance program Designed to optimize and strengthen the supply chain and help drive cost savings, Carrier launched the Carrier Alliance program to help provide certainty, security and growth opportunities for Carrier and its key suppliers. Joining the Carrier Alliance program is a win-win for Carrier and Wabash as it solidifies Wabash's position as a key supplier. "Joining the Carrier Alliance allows Wabash to further strengthen our long-standing relationship with Carrier and we look forward to the opportunity to grow and expand our presence in Carrier's portfolio of products," said Scott Schroeder, Executive Vice President, Wabash.

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

Our world plunged into a new set of uncomfortable norms in 2020. Mere months ago, life for much of the planet chugged along at its customary monotonous pace. Then, without forewarning, an insidious health threat thrust upon us. COVID-19, colloquial for SARS-CoV-2, is a novel coronavirus that originated in China in late 2019. It quickly burned around the globe like a dry brush fire. Not since a hundred years ago has humanity confronted mask wearing and social distancing in efforts to prevent suffering on a pandemic scale. A single COVID-19 viral particle is extremely small at 0.06 microns. This pure form of COVID-19 is not found outside a laboratory and would not survive even if it made its way into the environment. A single sneeze can eject 200 million COVID-19 particles into the airInstead, SARS-CoV-2, when expelled by infected human hosts, is encapsulated by mucus material. Hosts shed airborne viral particles in two modalities: droplets and aerosols. Droplets are about 1 micron while aerosols approximate 0.5 microns. Millions of viral droplets and aerosols are sloughed-off by talking, laughing, coughing, sneezing, singing or simply by breathing. A single sneeze can eject 200 million COVID-19 particles into the air. Portable air purifiers provide a potent tool in the fight to reduce the spread of COVID-19. The selection and deployment of an appropriate purifier are instrumental in lessening airborne viral droplets and aerosols. Advanced purification units can sterilize air as well as trap pathogens. This best-of-both-worlds approach to disease prevention is vitally important. HEPA Filtration An air purifier must have a medical-grade HEPA filter if the goal is trapping airborne pathogens. HEPA filters remove 99.97% of particles down to 0.3 microns in size. HEPA has different levels. The H-values of HEPA range from H10 through H14. Medical-grade HEPA is H13 or higher and provides filtration efficiencies of 99.95% of 0.1 micron-size particles per liter of air. As a result, medical-grade HEPA is highly effective in COVID-19 droplet and aerosol elimination. Clear Air Delivery Rate Clean Air Delivery Rate (CADR) is a critical metric of a purifier's ability to remove particles of a given size and is measured in Cubic Feet per Minute (CFM.) This drastically differs from a CFM metric alone. CFM as a standalone value demonstrates only the volume of air moved through a system without regard to particle removal. CADR is a compulsory and precise method of comparing air purifiers in a standardized manner. Choosing a purifier with the highest CADR is always preferable. Experts recommend devices with a CADR that moves the total air volume of a room through the purifier 5 to 6 times per hour. Portable air purifiers provide a potent tool in the fight to reduce the spread of COVID-19 Ultraviolent Light Ultraviolent Light (UV) is a powerful sterilization strategy. UV is used in medical settings worldwide for this purpose. While utilizing UV in a purifier is advantageous, selecting a device with UV in 254 nm wavelength is paramount. UV outside of this wavelength can excite oxygen into creating harmful ozone molecules consisting of 3 oxygen atoms. Cutting-edge air purifiers have 254 nm UV bulbs formulated with doped quartz. Such doping precludes secondary harmonic UV wavelengths from radiating from the bulb. UV is an invaluable element of air decontamination if ensured UV is 254 nm and doped bulbs are utilized. Photocatalysis Some air purifiers employ photocatalytic Titanium Dioxide (TiO2) membranes to complement their UV. The resulting photocatalysis dramatically enhances the sanitizing effects of UV. A TiO2 photocatalytic reaction under UV radiation provides additional disinfection pathways in addition to UV directly acting upon pathogens. Thus, both direct UV and photocatalysis provide exceedingly effective methods of microorganism degradation and destruction. Other Technologies Other technologies are found in purifiers, such as sophisticated filters to thwart VOC/TVOC compounds and negative ion generation. Negative ions have antibacterial properties, including marked reductions of acinetobacter transmission. Also, negative ions have the beneficial capacity to precipitate airborne PM1.0 and PM2.5 particulate matter, which are impurities that affects health. Advanced purification units can sterilize air as well as trap pathogens With the COVID-19 age upon us, portable air purifiers provide enormously powerful weapons in protecting the health of persons inside enclosed spaces. Air purification coupled with other air quality measures -- such as ensuring a suitable amount of outside air exchange, air agitation with fans and upgrading existing HVAC filters with MERV-13 -- present an effective and comprehensive approach to health and safety.

Having spent the last few months working from our sofas, dining tables and ironing boards, many of us have become accustomed to the world of remote working. But we’ve now arrived at a point where many businesses are starting to reopen their doors or have plans to do so in the near-future. Employers will be hoping that a return to work will prove productive, reinvigorating the workforce and driving growth. To this end, however, they will need to instill confidence by demonstrating how they can keep employees safe and comfortable. Bringing employees back to work will be complex. For a start, businesses have had to implement a large number of new safety measures in response to COVID-19. However, ensuring safety in the workplace goes beyond adhering to social distancing measures and anti-bacterial cleaning stations. Behind the scenes, heating, ventilation and air conditioning (HVAC) play a crucial role in facilitating a safe workspace. Whether it’s the systems implemented to limit the spread of the virus, the ongoing servicing of these systems or their wider environmental impact, HVAC solutions and facilities managers (FMs) rest at the heart of a safer return to work. Embracing new strategies for clean air Walking in the building through a new automatic door, most office workers will be greeted with a queue for the lifts and plenty of signage reminding you to sanitise your hands and keep your distance. Some may have their body temperature scanned by a thermal detection camera on entry, which could also count how many people enter to ensure numbers are safe. Others could be met with an anti-virus access point that scans your face using facial recognition rather than a pass, and enforces hand hygiene by dispensing sanitiser before the lifts will open.  Behind the scenes, heating, ventilation and air conditioning (HVAC) play a crucial role in facilitating a safe workspace All of these measures, however strict, are part of the new normal: ‘contactless’ buildings. Designed to limit the potential spread of COVID-19, facilities managers have plenty of options when it comes to keeping people safe. But not all of them are so apparent when entering a building. Some of the most important measures are those we can’t see. A healthy and safe working environment has always relied on a building’s HVAC infrastructure – temperature control, good air flow, and a reliable level of comfort are top of most office workers’ priority lists. But the pandemic has taken this to a new level of importance. As a critical part of their wider health and safety plan, facilities managers can look to identify strategies to increase clean air levels further. This could include increasing outdoor air circulation to decrease pathogen exposure, with smart air handling units. These will enable managers to bring in more outside air to displace potentially contaminated air, by increasing ventilation and air change rates.  Improving Filtration Methods Improving filtration methods is another possibility, by adding additional filters including high efficiency filters and HEPA filters, to trap more particles and increase the percentage of clean air in a building. Portable HEPA solutions are also an option for those who need more flexibility. In addition to air filtration and circulation, it is also possible to use UV-C lighting to effectively ‘disinfect’ the air or surfaces, using ultraviolet germicidal irradiation (UVGI) to inactivate viral microorganisms. These can be installed brand new or retrofitted into existing facilities, to reduce costs for FMs and speed up implementation. These innovative uses of HVAC to limit the spread of infection could have a huge impact on the health and safety of occupants in any building – and this is by no means limited to offices. Within healthcare and laboratory facilities, for example, solutions like room pressurisation, air change rates, humidity and temperature controls are all critical to reduce contamination in the air and on surfaces. A healthy and safe working environment has always relied on a building’s HVAC infrastructure Safety is an ongoing process No matter which HVAC solutions a facilities manager chooses, it’s not a case of installing them and then waving goodbye. As with any good health and safety strategy, constant monitoring is crucial to ensure building occupants are well looked-after – and this also ensures you can get the most out of HVAC investments. For some this means keeping a close eye on how your HVAC equipment runs, to ensure that they’re reaching optimum performance and delivering the best ROI. Working with a partner who can provide continuous service and monitoring is critical, so that the pressure is off FMs themselves. Especially now, having remote monitoring capabilities is an added bonus, so that minor issues can be fixed without an engineer having to visit the site.  For those with smart technologies in place, such as smart connected chillers, FMs may rather be reliant on predictive maintenance and monitoring tools, which use AI and automation to predict issues before they arise, and ensure equipment runs reliably and downtime can be minimised. Whether in person or remotely, good quality service and maintenance of HVAC equipment goes a long way – both to get the best return on investment, and to keep buildings as safe and comfortable as possible. Enabling a smarter and more sustainable workplace HVAC has always been critical to keeping employees happy and healthy at work – but for a long time this has had a negative impact on the planet. Inefficient HVAC systems can give a building a much bigger carbon footprint than it would ideally have.  75% of organizations plan to increase their investment in energy efficiency and smart building technologies Last year, our Energy Efficiency Indicator survey found that 75% of organizations plan to increase their investment in energy efficiency and smart building technologies. The opportunity, then, to overhaul HVAC systems in order to limit the spread of COVID-19 is also an opportunity to invest in more efficient, greener HVAC technologies, built for the future. Taking a holistic approach to your HVAC equipment is the best way to do this, to ensure efficiency gains can be made across an entire building or estate, by connecting intelligent systems. Chillers, for example, with efficiency and intelligence built in as standard can reduce energy use and carbon emissions for a building, or collection of buildings, helping FMs meet energy targets and keeping costs low. Choosing the optimal HVAC system Under current circumstances, the decisions made by FMs are pivotal in enabling business continuity and will ultimately impact building occupants’ comfort and safety. It should therefore come as no surprise that businesses are paying close attention to every move FMs make. Choosing the optimal HVAC system for your building and ensuring regular servicing and maintenance will prove cost-effective and energy efficient. Not only this, but smart HVAC technologies go a long way in enabling a safer, productive and more sustainable working environment. By picking the right tools for the job, businesses of every type can position themselves for growth while remaining as safe and secure as possible.

Data is playing an increasingly important role in smart buildings. Analysis of building system data is guiding an expansion of capabilities in the smart building environment, making building systems - including HVAC - more efficient, effective and smarter. The growth of intelligence in the HVAC market was among the more prominent industry trends in 2020. This article will revisit some of the year’s most popular articles on HVACinformed.com that focused on the trend toward more intelligent systems. "I don’t think many would disagree that the most talked about trend in the HVAC market is smart technology,” says Chris Windass of Incentiv Tec in an HVACinformed.com Expert Panel Roundtable article. “Smart technology like mobile apps allow building managers to control HVAC technology from one centralized point. With this smart technology, HVAC will be able to identify and alert building managers when maintenance is needed or assets have failed to operate.” smarter building technology A Johnson Controls survey found that 77% of organizations planned to make investments in energy efficiency and smarter building technology in 2020. “A complete overhaul of legacy systems is not necessary as small investments today can help position a facility to more easily adopt technologies at scale in the future,” says Lisa Brown, Senior National Director of Municipal Infrastructure and Smart Cities at Johnson Controls. More Intelligence in Home Systems Google’s Nest smart thermostat is offering a new capability that will alert homeowners of problems “As a first step, it’s important for building owners to conduct an assessment and establish a strategy that defines a comprehensive set of requirements and prioritizes use-cases and implementations. From there, incremental investments and updates can be made over a realistic timeline.” Smart systems are also a big part of residential HVAC systems. For example, Google’s Nest smart thermostat is offering a new capability that will alert homeowners of problems with the operation of their HVAC systems based on artificial intelligence (AI) algorithms that analyze system performance. The technology will empower Nest Learning thermostats to provide “early warning” of HVAC problems and even direct homeowners to a repair company. Remote Troubleshooting Emerges Sensors are another element of smart buildings. The Internet of Things (IoT) has enabled more sensors of different types to be deployed in more locations throughout the building easier than ever before. The point of installing and using IoT sensors is to gain deeper insight into how buildings are performing, and ensure buildings are healthier, more productive for people to work in, more effective to run and more energy efficient. In-room sensors, such as temperature, air quality and occupancy, work with the IoT to improve building performance. The benefits of IoT sensors are that they are easy to install, both physically and from a commissioning perspective. Remote troubleshooting is another smart capability that is generating interest. CoolAutomation’s Remote HVAC Service Solution enables HVAC service providers to remotely troubleshoot issues by analyzing real-time and historic data trends and analysis. Communicating in Smart Buildings They receive automatic error and anomaly notifications in their office or on their mobile phones They receive automatic error and anomaly notifications in their office or on their mobile phones. “The remote service solution provides the tools that HVAC service providers need to offer remote services to their existing clients while attracting new customers who understand the value of remote service for their business,” says Roy Muchtar, VP of Products at CoolAutomation. Communication is a central aspect of smart building systems, and now there’s a better option: a high-speed wireline communication standard called HD-PLC that is developed specifically for today’s industrial IoT and smart building applications. In 2017, after careful evaluation of various technologies, LonMark International adopted HD-PLC as its new channel standard. smart home standards And last October, the Consumer Technology Association (CTA) approved ANSI/CTA 709.8 LON HD-PLC (High Definition Power Line Communication) as a new standard by the American National Standards Institute (ANSI). Also related to communication, the Zigbee Alliance seeks to promote collaboration in the Internet of Things by creating, evolving, and promoting universal open standards that enable all objects to connect and interact. A quick search also provides a manual, wiring diagram and video training content for that specific unit Their effort took off when Amazon, Apple, Google and the Zigbee Alliance announced an industry working group in December 2019 to take the “best of market” technologies from leading smart home standards, portfolios and ecosystems and to develop a “super spec” that will be open, inclusive and a significant industry shift in the smart home market. The Project Connected Home over IP (CHIP) is looking to unify the environment, under one technology, one certification program and one logo. Training Technicians Using Technology Technology is also helping to fill the skills gap in the HVAC market. The XOi Vision platform helps on-site HVAC technicians in three ways. One is to “capture” images and videos. A technician can take a picture (with a smart phone or tablet), and the system’s machine learning can extract the text from the nameplate of a unit in the field, interpret the type of name plate, and provide full model number, serial number and other information about the unit, which is relayed automatically to the technician in a text message. A quick search also provides a manual, wiring diagram and video training content for that specific unit.

The year 2020 will forever be remembered for the global pandemic that transformed almost every aspect of our lives. COVID-19 impacted the HVAC market, as it did most other business sectors. However, HVAC also rose to a new level of prominence at the center of the pandemic, both as a potential cause of virus spread and as a source of solutions to fight the virus. This article will highlight the intersection of HVAC and COVID-19 based on articles published during 2020 at HVACinformed.com. Impact Of COVID On HVAC In an HVACInformed.com Expert Roundtable Discussion, several industry experts weighed in on the impact of the coronavirus pandemic on the HVAC market. Contractors were either not allowed to or were reluctant to enter people’s homes for sales and installation purposes, resulting in decreased demand and, ultimately, decreased sales. However, during extraordinary times, it was encouraging to see a renewed focus on something the HVAC industry has been delivering for years – comfort. Survey By Air Conditioning Contractors of America (ACCA) A survey by the Air Conditioning Contractors of America (ACCA) gathered insights on the effect the coronavirus pandemic is having on the HVAC industry. The survey in March indicated 65% of respondents expected COVID-19 to translate into long-term business viability concerns; 9% were concerned their businesses may not survive. HVAC industry employees were included among “Essential Critical Infrastructure Workers as designated by the U.S. Department of Homeland Security (DHS). Roles Of Ventilation HVAC technicians and companies have risen to the challenges of social distancing and wearing masks There was increasing awareness of the role of air ventilation in fighting the virus. There has been renewed interest in air filtration, not to mention the benefits of UV-C to mitigate to mitigate germs circulating in the air. Furthermore, HVAC technicians and companies have risen to the challenges of social distancing and wearing masks as they are invited into customers’ homes and businesses during the pandemic. Resources To Maximize HVAC Systems ASHRAE developed resources to help maximize how HVAC systems can have a positive impact as the coronavirus spreads. The society recommends strategies such as 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). Ultraviolet Light 2020 saw an unprecedented surge in demand for germicidal solutions. UV-C light is a short-wavelength, ultraviolet light that kills germs by inactivating a microorganism’s DNA. Although UV-C is effective in killing other varieties of coronaviruses, such as SARS and MERS, scientists do not yet know about the impact of UV-C on COVID-19. The Tennessee Valley Authority (TVA), the power provider in the United States, is offering incentives to businesses and schools to install UV-C germicidal lights to fight germs in indoor air. Role Of HVAC In Virus Spread Whether HVAC could contribute to virus spread was a repeated topic of interest. One theory goes that air conditioning, by removing humidity from the air, may enable infectious droplets to linger longer than they would outdoors or in another space where humidity is higher. More humidity can weigh down viral droplets as they float through the air. Minimize The Spread Of The Virus ASHRAE opposes the advice and asserts that keeping air conditioners on during this time can help control the spread of the virus Does it make sense, therefore, to turn the AC off to minimize the spread of the virus? according to ASHRAE, which officially opposes the advice not to run residential or commercial HVAC systems. In fact, ASHRAE asserts that keeping air conditioners on during this time can help control the spread of the virus. Also related to virus spread, the Centers for Disease Control and Prevention (CDC) reported on a case under the title “COVID-19 Outbreak Associated with Air Conditioning in a Restaurant, Guangzhou, China, 2020.” Research Trends And The Future The need for more research will continue after the pandemic. Broadly speaking, we know that crowded spaces with poor ventilation and/or low humidity levels tend to promote virus spread, that filtration can help to remove the virus, and that measures such as UV-C radiation can help to disinfect indoor air. More study is needed, and more time is needed to complete those studies and expand our base of knowledge on this important subject.  Preventing COVID Panasonic has conducted research that verifies that hydroxyl radicals contained in water can inhibit the novel coronavirus (SARS-CoV-2). The nano-sized electrostatic atomized water particles are generated by applying a high voltage to moisture in the air. Here is a statement from the company, "While Panasonic makes a wide range of products that generate these types of free radicals, none of these products has been tested for efficacy in the inhibition of the SARS-CoV-2 virus on surfaces or in the air.” Innovative approaches to fighting COVID include HVAC-equipped smart, glass-paneled bus stop shelters that that help to prevent pandemic spread in the Seongdong district in northeastern Seoul, South Korea. Ventilation And Air Filtration As schools worked to reopen safely in the midst of a global pandemic, HVAC was at the center of the mission. Adequate ventilation and effective air filtration are critical elements to ensure safe indoor air quality for educational institutions. Many schools are housed in older buildings that may not have been adequately maintained. Transforming them to address the new challenges of minimizing exposure to the novel coronavirus is that much more difficult.

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

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

The State of Texas has taken a proactive approach to health and wellness in preparation for the 2021 congressional session to begin. After a process of analyzing various purification technologies, the State of Texas selected Eagle Disinfection Group to provide its university validated technology as an enhanced layer of protection for elected officials in the Senate, House, staff and the local Austin community from the harmful effects of COVID-19 and other dangerous pathogens. Commercially licensed HVAC The Eagle Puradigm Technology was fully vetted and deemed effective and safe for use by state Epidemiologists and Virologists. Eagle Disinfection Group is supplying over 1,000 Puradigm HVAC and in-room units to the State of Texas to fully outfit the Capitol complex before the 2021 session officially begins on January 12th. Puradigm units vary in size and functionality giving Eagle Disinfection Group the ability to optimize continuous air and surface purification coverage throughout the Capitol complex. Eagle's commercially licensed HVAC and electrical service partner, Mako Industries, installed Puradigm HVAC specific units covering the House chamber, Senate chamber, and Capitol Extension. Volatile organic compounds Puradigm Technology was specifically tested and validated to eliminate SARS-CoV-2 The Eagle Puradigm Technology has been extensively tested and validated by American universities and health organizations worldwide to be effective against a wide range of viruses, bacteria, mold, fungus, mildew, odors, volatile organic compounds and other harmful pathogens. In June of 2020, Puradigm Technology was specifically tested and validated to eliminate SARS-CoV-2, the virus that causes COVID-19, by the University of Florida's Biosafety Level-3 laboratory under strict FDA guidelines. The technology is also proven to deactivate Coronavirus 229E, one of the main causes of the common cold. Surface purification system The patented technology creates advanced purification by proactively dispersing pathogen fighting High Energy Molecule Clusters resulting in purified air and surfaces throughout indoor spaces and transit vehicles 24/7, while leaving no harmful residue behind. The High Energy Molecule Clusters are 100% eco-friendly and replicate Earth's natural purification process indoors. All products are registered with the EPA and certified to be safe for use in populated spaces under OSHA and FDA standards. The Eagle Puradigm Technology is a Buy American compliant Proactive Air and Surface Purification system that qualifies for CARES Act funding. The technology is extensively proven to be safe, scalable and provides 24/7 protection to all indoor environments.

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

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

The nationwide lockdown in November, which was necessary due to the high number of infections in the second corona wave, has been accompanied by considerable restrictions. It is therefore all the more important to continue to secure the indispensable work in public institutions and especially, teaching in schools. In order to provide a decisive solution to the problem, Viessmann has developed a new air ventilation unit, the Vitovent 200-P. This is a unique hybrid ventilation unit that provides rooms with a continuous supply of fresh air and simultaneously cleans the air. Continuous air circulation Constant air circulation reduces aerosols and supplies closed rooms with fresh outside air again and again, so that pupils and teachers are best protected against the virus and learning performance is improved. "As a 103-year-old family business, we are committed to designing living spaces for generations to come," says Viessmann Co-CEO Maximilian Viessmann. A direct and continuous air circulation is guaranteed with a fresh air supply at floor level “Right now it is crucial that we quickly and pragmatically safeguard our children to maintain a part of their social life and access to education in these challenging times.” Vitovent 200-P uses the so-called displacement ventilation principle: A direct and continuous air circulation is guaranteed with a fresh air supply at floor level which then rises due to heat exchange with the occupants’ bodies. Comfortable learning atmosphere Consequently, used air rises to the top and travels into the units and is cleaned there, before being returned into the room as fresh air at floor level. The permanent supply of fresh air with heat and moisture recovery ensures a comfortable learning atmosphere and good air quality, even without window ventilation. Vitovent 200-P units have already been successfully tested in a pilot project at the Hans-Viessmann Vocational School in Frankenberg, North Hesse. The feedback from students and teachers has been overwhelmingly positive. In particular, it was positively highlighted that the unit runs very quietly and creates a comfortable indoor climate- it was also noted how in the prior absence of frequent ventilation, an additional health risk in winter when outside temperatures are very low, not only did the indoor air dry out excessively, but the schools' energy consumption and CO2 emissions were driven up too. Short term development Viessmann successfully demonstrated that the company was prepared to fulfill its social responsibility The devices can be retrofitted easily and at low cost by replacing a window pane with an isopanel. Thus, they offer the possibility to keep heavily occupied lounges and public facilities open despite a generally high risk of infection. The Viessmann Group together with the Viessmann Foundation announces that it will donate the first 50 Vitovent 200-P air cleaning units worth a six-figure sum to schools and social institutions, and will assume the full cost of installation. The company is thus fulfilling its purpose ‘We create living spaces for generations to come’ to a great extent. Already at the beginning of the outbreak of the pandemic, Viessmann successfully demonstrated that the company was prepared to fulfill its social responsibility and made a tangible contribution to the community through the short term development and provision of respiratory ventilators, mouth and nose masks and disinfectant - all of which are summarized as ‘ViAid’.

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

Sustainability has been a core concept in the HVAC industry for decades. Environmental concerns often drive product innovation, for example. However, environmental challenges persist and there is ongoing pressure on the industry to respond responsibly. We asked our Expert Panel Roundtable: What steps is the HVAC industry taking to address climate change and sustainability?

Welcome to our Expert Panel Roundtable, a new feature of HVACInformed.com. We will be asking timely questions about the HVAC market and seeking out experts in the field to provide responses. Our goal is to promote a useful exchange of information on a variety of topics and to create a forum for discussion of important issues facing the industry. Launching this new feature in the middle of a global pandemic made choosing our first question quite easy. We asked our Expert Panel Roundtable: What has been the impact of the coronavirus pandemic on the HVAC market?