ISSN 2058-4407
VOLUME 3 No6
Essential Information for the Air Conditioning and Refrigeration Industry
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02
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04
CONT E NTS
16 Essential Information for the Air Conditioning and Refrigeration Industry
Refrigerant focus continues to grow
Such is the focus of this industry that it’s easy to forget that the vast majority of people out there in the real world have only the vaguest notion of what a refrigerant is. But it’s clear from conversations, backed up by statistics from the ACR Journal website and social media, that refrigerants are THE burning subject of debate for a large number of our readers. So it will be interesting to see the reaction to news that A-Gas is launching its Rapid Recovery service in the UK from this month, promising rates up to 10 times faster than traditional methods. Continuing the theme, Ben Bartle-Ross of Mitsubishi Electric talks about the importance of preparing for R32 and Ed Whinyates of Stonegrove warns that doing nothing is not an option when it comes to the phase out of high GWP refrigerants. In other news… we look at the potential bene�ts of retro�tting with ECEX, a prestige project for Fujitsu at King’s Cross, and the driving force behind Hitachi’s plans for a bigger slice of the UK air conditioning market. Mans�eld Pollard explains how to strike the right balance between IAQ and energy e�ciency and Dearman outlines its clean cooling credentials.
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Enjoy the magazine. PS: Don’t forget that the deadline for entries to the ACR Trainee of the Year Awards is 31st July. If your business has someone who deserves to be recognised, please don’t miss this chance to support the next generation of engineers. You can find details of how to enter on Page 47.
10
R EG U L A RS
06 News 12 IOR update
Closer ASHREA links and a new logo
14
Mitsubishi Electric Tooling up for R32
Enjoy the magazine.
18
David
Co�ee Break Win a hotel break for two with Refcom
David
Tools Talk Game-changer from Javac
Editor
36 Women in ACR
Helen Jewell of Accent Services
44
Todd 01778 392094 FOR YOUR SMARTPHONE OR TABLET PC david.todd@warnersgroup.co.uk
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46
What’s New? The latest products and solutions
48 Chilly Chatter & Chilly Van 50 Changing Faces
Who’s new and who’s moved
JUNE 2017
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05
CO N T EN TS
VOLUME 3 No6
ISSN 2058-4407
Essential Information for the Air Conditioning and Refrigeration Industry
dean&wood
available from...
and
aircreation JUNE 2017
20
R32 is here! acrjournal.uk JUN17 Cover.indd 1
40
11/05/2017 16:07
About our front cover: www.dean-wood.co.uk www.air-creation.co.uk
ACR Mitsi Electric.indd 1
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Multimedia Account Manager
James Knight 01778 395029 jamesk@warnersgroup.co.uk
What's New
38 F E AT U R E S
Theresa Geeson 01778 392046 theresag@warnersgroup.co.uk
Editorial Design
Development Design
Advertising Design Natalie Reynolds
Production
Refrigerants
Refrigeration
recovery revolution
Stonegrove: When doing nothing is not an option
10 How A-Gas aims to lead a Case Study
16 Fujitsu goes the extra mile at
King’s Cross
28 30
Dearman has the power to be clean and cool Training
34
Out & About
Sharing knowledge a key strategy for Toshiba
Hitachi growth
Case Study
20 Femi determined to drive Air Movement
22 Striking the right balance with
Mansfield Pollard
Retrofitting
24 ECEX explores cost-effective
efficiencies
38 Greenway the natural choice Heat Pumps
40
New government must increase support
42
Heat pumps need an efficient partner
Sue Ward 01778 392405 production@warnersgroup.co.uk
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06
NE W S
AIREDALE LAUNCHES COIL PROTECTION TREATMENT
Airedale International has launched an additional after sales service to extend the life of heat exchangers in HVAC equipment. Airedale now provides long lasting anti-corrosion treatment to maximise the e�ciency and performance of air conditioning systems such as heat exchangers, evaporator coils, condenser coils in external chillers, condensers, dry coolers and more. Corrosion is the number one cause of e�ciency loss in heat exchangers, typically when exposed to extreme weather conditions and pollution. Airedale o�ers three corrosion treatment plans that promise to protect, refresh and renew coils in heat exchangers that are between 3 to 8+ years old. www.airedale.com
DAIKIN UK OPENS NEW LONDON OFFICE Daikin UK has opened a new o�ce in central London and restructured its sales team. Based in Harp Lane, close to London Bridge, Monument and Tower Hill stations, the o�ces feature an open ceiling showcasing the latest in Daikin VRV technology. Daikin UK is bringing together its contractor sales, speci�cation, applied systems, application and quotation teams under a single Area Sales Manager in each region. Simon Chapman, Area Sales Manager for Central London at Daikin UK, said: “This new development highlights our continued commitment to invest in both our customers and sta� within the UK. “We encourage all of our customers and clients to meet with us in our new o�ces, and to think of our facilities as their own facilities, which they are welcome to use for meetings and client brie�ngs.” www.daikin.co.uk
NIBE INTRODUCES NEW INVERTER DRIVEN PUMPS
Heat pump system manufacturer NIBE has added the latest products to its range, the F1155 and F1255 inverter driven ground source heat pumps, both of which have been awarded MCS certi�cation. Two sizes are available (1.5 – 6kW and 3 – 12kW) to suit a range of properties. Both operate at high e�ciency levels – SCOP 5.2 at 35°C and both have been attributed A+++ energy label rating. In addition, the new range bene�ts from an intuitive user interface. It o�ers an automatically activated guide for quick and easy set-up, a help function for more information and a problemsolving alarm. Furthermore the F1155 can be combined with the existing range of NIBE VPB cylinders and accessories, whilst the F1255 contains an integrated 180L cylinder www.nibe.co.uk
‘AIR QUALITY POLLUTION PRESENTS A VERY REAL THREAT’
Xpelair is reminding of the importance of ensuring adequate ventilation in the wake of new research into the e�ects of air quality pollution. According to a new study entitled Can Clean Air Make You Happy? From the University of York, exposure to nitrogen dioxide can have the same negative impact on the human body as major life events, such as losing a job or partner. Lee Stones, Category Manager for Xpelair, said: “The results of this report are shocking. As a nation, we are generally well versed when it comes to the physical health implications that exposure to unhealthy levels of air pollution can pose, but for it to be put into the context of losing a job or the death of a partner clearly shows the sheer gravity of the situation.” Most recently, Xpelair launched Natural Air 180 – a new Mechanical Ventilation with Heat Recovery Unit (MVHR) designed to improve the nation’s air quality. It features a carbon �lter ancillary which �lters outdoor air, giving a method of exchanging air in the building whilst �ltering out the harmful nitrogen dioxide. www.xpelair.co.uk
JUNE 2017
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17/08/2016 12:27 15/05/2017 15:23:21
08
NE W S
WANDER TER KUILE
Tributes have been paid to Wander ter Kuile, Group Technical Manager at Waterloo Air Products, who has died at the age of 57 after a twoyear battle with cancer.
Wander was born in the Netherlands and moved to Britain aged 11. He joined Waterloo in 2006 after previously working for Vokes and Altair, using his extensive experience of air movement to developing Waterloo’s range of air terminal devices. Rick Edmondson, Chairman at Waterloo, said: “Without doubt, Wander has been a major contributor to our success. He guided our technical requirements, met with customers and generously shared his unbelievably wide and deep knowledge. He was also good fun to work with – witty, kind and supportive, and an excellent friend and colleague. We will all miss him.” Donations to Pancreatic Cancer Action can be made at https://www. justgiving.com/fundraising/ter-Kuile
CARRIER RENTAL SYSTEMS SUPPORTING ENERGY-FROM-WASTE GROWTH
Carrier Rental Systems is supplying temporary cooling and heating equipment to support the UK’s growing energy-from-waste facilities. Biodigester plants harness natural biological processes using bacteria to break down organic matter to produce methane. The gas is then used as a fuel source to generate electricity. The benefit is that food and agricultural waste that would otherwise be sent to landfill can be used to produce clean energy. When new plants are commissioned, an external energy source is required to warm the organic feed stock within the biodigester, to initiate biological activity. Once this process becomes established, it produces its own heat as a result of the biological activity and becomes self-perpetuating. A temporary heating source, therefore, is required during the start-up phase to prime the system. Carrier Rental Systems is supplying packaged boiler plant, buffer tanks and associated pipework on a hire basis for this purpose to several new energy-from-waste plants around the country. It is also providing packaged Carrier AquaForce 30XA air-cooled screw chiller on a hire basis for use in biodigester facilities undergoing maintenance. Here, in a reverse of the above process, a chiller is used to cool the contents of the biodigester in order to arrest biological activity. In a recent example, it supplied a high efficiency 100kW AquaForce chiller to an energy-from-waste plant in Reading, which was due for major maintenance work. www.carrierrentalsystems.co.uk
TF SOLUTIONS ACQUIRED BY TRAVIS PERKINS GROUP
Air conditioning and refrigeration distributor TF Solutions has been acquired by the Travis Perkins Group. TF will operate within the BSS part of the Contract Merchanting Division. Andrew Cherrill is the new Managing Director at TF Solutions. He said: “Joining the largest specialist supplier of mechanical services in the UK and having the backing and support of the BSS umbrella means that not only can we continue with our first class service ethos, we can now implement our growth strategy in the AC marketplace, increasing our presence and our support to customers. “We fully intend to continue operating as we have always done, giving our customers a service level which is second to none in the industry. The acquisition deal will allow us to grow as a company and expand that service, East Anglia-based heat and we very much look forward to working with BSS to achieve this.” pump installer Finn Frank Elkins, Divisional CEO of Contract Merchanting, said: “TF Solutions Geotherm has become has an extremely strong identity within the air conditioning and refrigeration Carbon Trust accredited. market which perfectly complements those which in which BSS already Guy Ransom, commercial operates. In terms of product, the TF director at Finn Geotherm, said: “The accreditation not Solutions range will enhance BSS’s only recognises our expertise in ground and air source product offering and support us to offer a heat pumps, but it also gives us the opportunity to one-stop shop for our HVAC customers.’’ further help small and medium sized businesses who are TF Solutions, established in considering installing renewable energy systems and may 2001, employs 48 people at three benefit from the Carbon Trust Green Business Fund.” branches in Stockport, Dunstable and Burton upon Trent. www.finn-geotherm.co.uk
CARBON TRUST BOOST FOR FINN GEOTHERM
JUNE 2017
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N EW S
ADCOCK BACK ON THE FARM Adcock Refrigeration and Air Conditioning has replaced three chillers originally �tted by the company two decades ago at a Norfolk poultry farm.
The chillers provide chilled water to the hatchery machinery at Banham Poultry of Attleborough. The hatchery contains around 2,000,000 eggs at any one time and the chilled water supply can only be interrupted for a maximum of one hour. A temporary chiller was used to allow the installation of three Daikin EWAD chillers in a new configuration with a revised mechanical pipework layout and new central controls.
KLIMA-THERM AND
LH SET SAFETY STANDARD
Klima-Therm has joined sister company LH plc in being awarded Safecontractor accreditation. The two companies are leading chiller and air conditioning specialists, supplying, installing and servicing high performance, innovative low carbon solutions for some of the biggest names on the high street as well as global Blue Chip financial organisations. Safecontractor is the UK’s leading independent accreditation scheme, and recognises the highest standards in health and safety management among contractors working in construction and related fields.
Tim Mitchell, right, Sales Director of Klima-Therm, said: “This is a valuable and visible stamp of approval for our approach to health and safety, which has been part of the Klima-Therm / LH philosophy from the beginning. We pride ourselves on our safe working as much as in the innovation and impeccable environmental credentials of our technology.” John Kinge of Safecontractor said: “Companies need to understand the importance of adopting good risk-management in the way that Klima-Therm has done.’’ www.klima-therm.co.uk
09
TOSHIBA ROLLS OUT NEW ONLINE
COMMISSIONING AND WARRANTY SYSTEM Toshiba has developed a new online commissioning and warranty system which it believes will revolutionise the management of air conditioning warranty claims.
The tool is designed to deliver significant cost and time benefits to end users, installers and service companies. It also gives end users instant access to key F-Gas charge data for plant and equipment on their estates, centralising record keeping and assisting legal compliance. Customers and installers can log onto the system from a smart phone, tablet or PC and access comprehensive data on installed equipment. Toshiba’s Vince Rodgers, who is heading up the initiative, says: “Toshiba has led the industry with the first seven-year warranty. Now the online system provides a powerful new way of managing and implementing claims, and sourcing and ordering any related spare parts required.” David Dunn, director and general manager of Toshiba and CIAT Ozonair, said: “We believe the new systems will dramatically reduce the time it takes to process warranty claims, and streamline the whole process for everyone.”
STAR TO THE RESCUE AT CHEMICAL PLANT
Star Refrigeration came up with a swift solution when the failure of a heat exchanger threatened a costly break in production for AGC Chemicals Europe. The problem at the plant in Thornton Cleveleys, near Blackpool, meant that AGC could not operate its Methyl Chloride process line. The process fluid needed to be cooled to -33C which required specialist equipment. A team of senior engineers from Star’s local branch were on site within half an hour of the call-out and, thanks to a business partnership with Aggreko, Star was able to deliver a specialist temporary temperature controlled solution. Aggreko provided two VLTC chillers for approximately 150kW of cooling at -33C, 2 heat rejection air cooled chillers, a low temperature heat exchanger which was connected into the process line, circulation pumps, a buffer tank and generators. The temporary solution provided turned out to be more efficient that the equipment which failed, delivering a more effective cooling process and allowing for a larger output. The specialist chillers on site at the AGC Chemicals Europe plant in Lancashire
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R E FR I GE RA N TS
NEW RAPID REFRIGERANT RECOVERY SERVICE FOR THE UK A-Gas Managing Director John Ormerod explains how a new refrigerant recovery service will make a big difference to the way contractors operate.
John Ormerod
A-Gas Rapid Recovery is a bespoke recovery service with very high recovery rates – approximately ten times faster than traditional recovery units. The main benefit to contractors is that they are able to outsource this work to someone who is a specialist in the field of recovery.
Wasted time
R
efrigerant recovery is growing in importance across refrigeration and air conditioning and the pace of change has increased signi�cantly as the F-Gas Regulations have tightened their grip on the way the industry goes about its business.
Recovering refrigerants and giving them a new lease of life is a key plank to support the push towards a more environmentally friendly and holistic approach to how we operate. Restrictions on the production of virgin refrigerants leave the industry with little alternative but to recycle much of what’s already out there.
But to recycle you first have to recover and that’s why A-Gas is unveiling a new service to help engineers and end-users to transform the way they handle this part of the job. A-Gas Rapid Recovery will be available to customers across the UK from this month and will make recovery quicker and easier. Rapid Recovery is a business which began life in the US to provide an outsourced refrigerant recovery service to contractors. A-Gas bought the company last year after it recognised that by offering a similar service in other areas of the world, it could make a big difference to the way engineers operate.
CONTRACTORS CAN OUTSOURCE THIS WORK TO SOMEONE WHO IS A SPECIALIST IN THE FIELD”
Most engineers will tell you that the recovery process can take a great deal of time and anything that speeds it up is welcome. A lot of time is wasted moving recovery cylinders to and from refrigeration and air conditioning equipment – A-Gas Rapid Recovery brings cylinders to the job. The equipment is independent of services like power, is portable and with 200ft hoses can get to RAC units wherever they are. As contractors will recognise, if you are working on a big system situated on the top of a multi-storey building the process is tough enough without the recovery side holding you up. Depending on how much refrigerant is in the system it can sometimes take days to complete such a task. Using a specialist will allow you to get on with other more productive, money making activities with the A-Gas Rapid Recovery service being a pass-through cost. Increased productivity is something we all strive for and efficient refrigerant recovery can contribute to this. Recovery is a task that has to be carried out to meet our environmental laws, so there is no escaping it even if you want to. The real value in a job,
JUNE 2017
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R EF R I G ERA N TS
as most contractors will tell you, is using specialist skills to repair equipment, carry out retrofits or install new equipment. That’s what the customer wants you to get on with when you are onsite. How the engineer removes the gas from the system is not important to the client as long as the job is completed on time and within budget.
Recovery vehicles
A-Gas Rapid Recovery is launching with a network of recovery vehicles and engineers in place across the UK to give contractors national coverage from day one. This taskforce will be available to go onsite at short notice and handle recovery work of all sizes. The contractor will not have to worry about providing recovery cylinders to store the refrigerant – the recovery team will take care of this and all aspects of the job from start to finish including hazardous waste documentation.
In cases where the contractor wants the refrigerant removed from a system to allow them to carry out a repair, and then return the gas to the system, the recovery team will be able to help here too. We are able to remove the gas quickly to allow the repair to be completed and the refrigerant returned to the system without delay. If the refrigerant is no longer required – and needs to be disposed of – we can take it away and clean it for future use. If the challenge of the F-Gas phasedown is to be met, there is a great deal of recovery work to be undertaken in the UK and the bonus will be that fast recovery systems will allow engineers the
11
opportunity to handle a greater number of jobs in a shorter period of time. Rapid Recovery has been highly successful in the US where it is based at 40 locations. It has made a significant difference to the workload of contractors and has become an accepted service which they can depend on. In the UK and Europe the F-Gas Regulations, and with them the phasedown of HFC refrigerants, are driving the industry to move from high GWP refrigerants to low GWP alternatives and we believe that fast recovery systems are a perfect fit for this programme. www.agas.com
A-Gas Rapid Recovery has made a significant difference to the workload of engineers in the US
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I OR NE W S
FORGING closer links
The IOR and ASHRAE will build on more than a century of working together by forging even closer links in the future.
A
new Memorandum of Understanding signed at the CIBSE ASHRAE Technical Symposium outlines how the two groups will combine to continue furthering and promoting the advancements of cooling and heating related technologies, including joint conferences and meetings, training and education programmes, publication distribution and chapter collaboration.
IOR President Steve Gill said: “I am proud that we have refreshed the IOR and ASHRAE long-standing relationship through the signing of a new MoU, approved recently by both of our boards. This will underpin future collaborative work for both organisations.
Research
“ASHRAE and the IOR already share much of common interest in that both organisations represent a network of dedicated individuals who have a strong commitment to the advancement of our industry. We look forward to continuing to work closely together in the future, particularly in areas such as improving education and skills, disseminating technical publications and encouragement of improved standards – especially in refrigeration, air conditioning and heat pump areas of expertise.” ASHRAE President Tim Wentz said: “Strengthening our relationship with the IOR is a natural and obvious decision. Both organisations are committed to harnessing and adapting new technologies and research to create a future where the built environment is healthier, more comfortable and more energy e�cient. “The strides our organisations are making to produce a more sustainable world are exciting, and both ASHRAE and the IOR are well poised to support each other’s objectives immediately and moving into the future. We are pleased to formalise our relationship with this MoU
and look forward to continuing a long association with IOR.” As part of the agreement, ASHRAE and the IOR will explore ways to make technical information more accessible to both memberships. The MoU additionally places special focus on continuing to build and strengthen the organisations’ global networks.
Tim Wentz and Steve Gill sign the Memorandum of Understanding
New logo for a new era
The IOR has updated its logo to re�ect the growing range of services and relevance to all aspects of refrigeration, air conditioning and heat pumps. The new logo also marks the �rst stage in the updating of the IOR website, with the intention to make the site easier to use and more modern in appearance over the coming months. The emphasis of the website will continue to be on technical information, latest news, education and regional networking. Having a well-used website is a key part of the IOR’s objectives to support the advancement of science and practice for the public bene�t. Alongside this change, the policy on the use of the IOR logo is changing. Members have said that they want to be able to show their on-going support for the IOR and encourage more people in the industry to become involved, and so a special version of the new logo “we support IOR” is now available for use on members’ websites, with a link back to www.ior.org.uk . Members will need to obtain prior agreement before using the logo and accept the terms of usage set by the IOR. To get prior agreement and add this to your site please contact membership@ior.org.uk to be sent the “we support” image and guidance.
JUNE 2017
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The future is in your hands Define the future of A/C
Introducing the new Sky Air A-series with ultra-efficient Bluevolution R32 technology, available in three models: the world-class Alpha, Advance and Active. The new Sky Air with R32 delivers future-proofed, best-in-class climate control for your business and customers. Design flexibility. More compact. Quieter. With an extended operating range in all climate conditions. Help is at hand. Quicker and easier installation and usability, even for replacement systems. Daikin at the heart of the system. Exceptionally low running costs. Even lower environmental impact. All thanks to Daikin’s tried, tested and trusted technology. Geared for comfort. Optimal remote control, geared to your customers’ individual needs.
R32 is an industry revolution. Be part of it. Get ahead of the competition. Talk to Daikin about Sky Air today. www.daikin.co.uk/leadtheway
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14
M I TS U BI S H I ELECT R I C
TOOLING UP FOR R32 I was pleased to get some comments on the ACR Journal website in response to my previous post about R32.
However, I am not going to answer them here because I think the subject of R32 and safety is more than adequately covered by the F-Gas Regulations, which are in place for a reason. It’s also why you have to qualify to handle refrigerants. Like just about anything in modern life there are dangers involved, but with correct training and handling, we seek to mitigate the risks and minimise the danger. All refrigerants have the potential to be dangerous if mishandled but R32 is now the chosen refrigerant globally because it has a much lower global warming potential (GWP) of 675, compared with the current ‘favourite’ of the industry – R410A which has a GWP of 2,088. R32 is therefore set to become a big part of the future in air conditioning, especially for split systems, and as an installer you need to be aware of the changes that this will mean to your business. The new refrigerant has excellent thermal properties, so is a good replacement for R410A in small systems. The equipment used has a smaller footprint and the cooling capacity is higher. A high volumetric capacity also means less gas in a system for the same cooling results from R410A, making R32 more efficient.
The running pressure is fairly similar to R410A so there should be no real difference in operating pressures when checked with gauges. In terms of transportation, the ‘mildly flammable’ R32 is no different to moving others such as Propane or Isobutane and professionally qualified engineers are used to carrying flammables in their vans already so general good practice applies here. We the manufacturers are also doing our utmost to minimise the changes necessary in terms of gauge and hose connections. However, you will need an R32 compliant recovery unit, an R32 specific vacuum pump, a torque wrench set to the manufacturer’s recommendations on your flare joints and for pipework, stick to material that is R410A rated, as this also suitable for R32. I’d always recommend you talk to your wholesaler, supplier, or even the manufacturer, and get advice to make sure you get the equipment that suits you and your business.
Ben Bartle-Ross is a trainer at Mitsubishi Electric. Ben.Bartle-Ross@meuk.mee.com
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15/05/2017 16:52
Think green, choose blue. GEA Compressors for natural refrigerants
GEA Bock HG compressors for supermarket applications Discover our compressors and learn more about the use of natural refrigerants. In supermarkets nothing should be left to chance: Customers always want to fill their shopping carts with fresh produce and optimally cooled food. GEA compressors are used in various areas of the cooling chain and always ensure the right temperature of the food. The main focus is on compressors, which have been specially developed for natural refrigerants. For use with the refrigerant CO2, GEA offers compressors, optimally suited for the application with CO2, not only in terms of pressures, but in many other respects as highest efficiency in the market. Furthermore, the compressors of the hydrocarbon series GEA Bock HG HC as well as the series GEA Bock HG CO2 (T) fulfill all the requirements of the F-gases regulation. GEA offers compressor solutions for the entire cold chain – starting from the food production to transport, food processing and storage in the cold store, to cooling in the supermarket.
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AI R CONDI TI O N I N G
FUJITSU GOES THE EXTRA MILE
AT KING’S CROSS How a critical cooling project put the ‘extra’ into extraordinary at prestige development
F
ujitsu Air Conditioning (UK) has supplied VRF Heat Pump systems for the prestigious new office building of global communications giant, Havas Media Group, at 3 Pancras Square, King’s Cross, London.
King’s Cross is an extraordinary part of the extraordinary global city that is London. It is a whole new piece of London with a brand new postcode, N1C. After 150 years of industrial use, the area to the north of King’s Cross station is being transformed into a vibrant new city quarter. It is one of the largest and most exciting redevelopments in London, as well as one of the largest regeneration projects in the UK right now. 3 Pancras Square is an imposing building, designed by Porphyrios Associates, standing at the north east corner of Pancras Square at the very heart of the spectacular new development. The building comprises 11 storeys including three private roof terraces, with Fujitsu wall-mounted fan coil units being chosen by the consultant Troup Bywaters +
Anders London to provide the critical cooling to the UPS, SER and AV rooms. The consultant designed a 2N Resilience arrangement which entailed doubling up on the required number of fan coil units in each respective room. At any one time only 50% of the fan coil units will be operating. The other 50%t would be energised in the event of a change-over of circuits or in the event of failure.
Resilience
Fujitsu also supplied their latest ‘state of the art’ central touch panel controller which has been interfaced to the building’s BMS system and is capable of remote internet access providing the maintenance contractor with the ability to change temperature settings, alternate the use of circuits and provide full fault alert and remote diagnostic capability. Asim Naseer, Senior Mechanical Engineer at Troup Bywaters + Anders, said: “We needed an equipment selection which would be easy to install and easy
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proceeded well and technical back-up and commissioning assistance by Fujitsu has been very good.” Havas has moved to King’s Cross to consolidate its UK presence. Havas was reportedly drawn to King’s Cross because of its high-quality office offering coupled with excellent infrastructure and facilities for its staff. Havas’s new building will offer a fantastic workplace in London’s most successful urban quarter, with unrivalled transport services and staff amenities.
Unique
to operate, provide the critical cooling capability and resilience according to our design specification and satisfy our client’s most stringent requirements. “It was also important that the procurement of the equipment was cost effective and that the extended warranty by the manufacturer would protect Havas (our client). Backed up by outstanding technical support throughout the project, we feel that Fujitsu have provided excellent value overall. “During the design phase we consulted various manufacturers and built a comparison schedule. Fujitsu’s solution ticked all our boxes including reliability, compliance and energy efficiency. As someone has said, the difference between ordinary and extraordinary is just this little ‘extra’. Fujitsu met all of our considerations plus this little ‘extra’; an excellent back-up on site.”
Support
Mark Derriman, Fujitsu’s VRF Business Development Manager, said: “Consultants are crucial to the success of many projects, from the iconic to the everyday. Their specialist expertise is critical for refurbishment projects, and vital for those projects involving creative digital media such as this one. The consultant ensures that the project is designed and efficiently delivered for their clients. Fujitsu understands this and works with them at every stage of the process, starting with the design stage, and equally importantly,
continuing this support throughout the project’s installation programme with technical back-up and observations. Every project must be treated with the utmost care to ensure that the consultant and their clients are delivered exactly what was intended, on time, and crucially, on budget. It is great to work closely with vibrant consultancies such as Troup Bywaters + Anders, whose professional involvement guaranteed the success of this project.” The building was completed in Summer 2016 with the fit-out following on. The main contractor appointed for the project was Structure Tone Ltd, who specialise in high-quality fit-out and refurbishment projects, and their appointed mechanical contractor was Michael J Lonsdale, a leading services contractor. Kaz Glander, Contracts Manager for MJL, said: “Fujitsu have supplied the equipment in an organised and timely manner. The equipment installation has
Mark Derriman added: “We are delighted to have been involved in such a prestigious project. Cooling is critical to the operation of the media group Havas and we are pleased to have been selected for such a high-profile and important element. We are proud to have contributed to the success of the project, and to the ongoing success of Havas. “The redevelopment site has a rich history and a unique setting. It is being transformed into a new part of the city with homes, shops, offices, galleries, bars, restaurants, schools and even a university. Something special is happening here: an extraordinary part of London is taking shape and Fujitsu are now a part of making this happen for future generations.” Fujitsu Air Conditioning (UK) is part of the Fujitsu Group, one of the best known and most successful engineering and electronics organisations in the world. Fujitsu Air Conditioning is a world-leading provider of innovative, reliable and energy efficient air conditioning products. For more details about Fujitsu’s range of products, visit www.fujitsu-general.co.uk/aircon
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COM PE T I T I O N
MAY WINNER & RUNNER-UP
Winner of the Bannatyne spa day for two with afternoon tea was Leeane Mace from AMP. Paul Sharp of Epta won the three-course meal for two restaurant voucher.
Welcome to our word search competition, sponsored by Refcom,
the UK’s leading F-Gas company certi�cation scheme. Find out how to apply for your company certi�cation, or renew your existing certi�cation, online at www.refcom.org.uk/f-gas. To demonstrate best practice, Refcom also operates Refcom Elite. To �nd out more visit www.refcom.org.uk/refcom-elite. There are some BRILLIANT competition prizes this month from Refcom, the UK’s leading F-Gas register.
Simply find the 10 words we’ve hidden in the word search for your chance to win. L
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RETREAT
The winner of this month’s competition will win: An overnight getaway with dinner for two.
One runner-up will win : A three-course meal and a glass of wine for two at Zizzi.
CLOSING DATE IS 23RD JUNE
*Prizes may vary from those pictured.
Send your entry to: Competitions Department, ACR Journal, Warners Group Publications, The Maltings, West Street Bourne, Lincs, PE10 9PH or complete online: www.w2u.en/RefcomComp Name ...................................................................................................................................... Company ..........................................................................................................................
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A DV ERTO R I A L
NEW ARMAFIX PIPE SUPPORT from
Press information
NOW WITH ECO-FRIENDLY, LIGHTWEIGHT PET CORE New Armafix pipe support from Armacell: now with ecofriendly, light-weight PET core
Armacell Mars Street, Oldham OL9 6LY Tel: 0161 287 7000 Email: info.uk@armacell.com www.armacell.com/uk
The Armafix pipe support range now offers specifiersTheand installers better load capacity due to a new 100% recycled Armafix pipe support range now offers specifiers and installers PET honeycomb core structure. The PET core achieves excellent load-bearing prevents thermal bridging better load capacity due to a newperformance, 100% recycled PET honeycomb core lifespan. structure. The PET core achieves excellent load-bearing and delivers excellent material durability for maximum
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he enhanced pipe supports are made from an environmentally-friendly PET core, which comprises 100 percent recycled material. PET is lightweight and has a high mechanical strength in combination with residual �exibility and a maximum service life.
100% Upcycling:
The new PET (polyethylene terephthalate) core is made from 100% recycled PET bottles, whilst 100% of production scrap flows back into the manufacturing of new PET blocks. Armacell PET products can be completely recycled at the end of their service life. Utilising recycled PET is part of Armacell’s commitment to the ‘cradle-to-cradle’ principle for its product solutions. This concept is aimed at avoiding waste by recycling materials in a closed loop process. PET has an excellent environmental performance and, unlike some materials, can be recycled any number of times without losing any of its performance benefits. The material requires over 60% less energy for its production than PUR and releases over 80% less CO2. Manufacture of Armacell PET products also consumes 40% less energy and results in 30% less CO2 emissions than conventional PET foams.
Excellent technical and mechanical properties
The closed-cell structure and low thermal conductivity (λ23°C ≤ 0.034 W/m • K) means that Armacell’s Armafix PET pipe supports offer excellent insulative properties. With a density of 100 kg/m³, PET is lighter weight than PUR cores (140 - 145 kg/m³). PET also displays higher pres¬sure
performance, prevents thermal bridging and delivers excellent material durability for maximum lifespan.
The enhanced pipe supports are made from an environmentallyfriendly PET core, which comprises 100 percent recycled material. PET is light-weight and has a high mechanical strength in combination with residual flexibility and a maximum service life. 100% Upcycling: The new PET (polyethylene terephthalate) core is made from 100% recycled PET bottles, whilst 100% of production scrap flows back into the manufacturing of new PET blocks. Armacell PET products can be completely recycled at the end of their service life. Utilising recycled PET is part of Armacell’s commitment to the ‘cradle-tocradle’ principle for its product solutions. This concept is aimed at
Thewaste new Armafi x pipe support: moreinenvironment-friendly and even more efficient (illustration: Armacell) avoiding by recycling materials a closed loop process.
resistance than PUR and is resistant to Cost effective and easy to install PET has an excellent environmental performance and, unlike some aging. A further benefi t of the new PET Comparative calculations carried out by materials, can be recycled any number of times without losing any of its material is the residual fl exibility which shown performance benefits. The material requiresArmacell over 60% have less energy forthat its Armafix not only greatly minimises the risk of the material provides maximum reliability, but can also production than PUR and releases over 80% less CO2. Manufacture of breaking onArmacell large pipe diameters. be installed more eas-ily, neater and quicker PET products also consumes 40% less energy and results in than standard clamps and pipe supports. 30% less CO2 emissions than conventional PET foams. Plumbers and installers sim¬ply snap Avoids condensation and heat loss the Pipe brackets in hot and cold installations Excellent technical and mechanical propertiesone-piece pipe support around the pipe and(λfi23°C x it≤in0.034 place using the selfrepresent aThe potential weak point inlow thermal conductivity closed-cell structure and W/m adhe¬sive closure. Glue a pipework •insulation system. If cold K) means that Armacell’s Armafix PET pipe supports offer excellent is then applied to the butt ends of the pipe support to the pipework isinsulative not thermally isolated from properties. tube material using Armacell adhesive. the pipe bracket, thermal bridging occurs, The new Armafix pipe support brackets resulting in condensation and subsequent are available as Armafix AF, in the corrosion of the fittings. halogen-free Armafix NH version and This thermal bridging results in increased as the low-smoke Armafix Ultima pipe energy losses in both hot and cold support. In addition, Armacell offers the installations, whilst condensation in cold Armafix AF duct support for installing systems can cause expensive secondary air ducts. As a system with Armaflex damage to other fixtures and fittings. The Armafix pipe sup¬port brackets are Ultima, the pipe support achieves the fire class BL-s1,d0, the best fire class for highly effective at thermally isolating the elasto¬meric insulation materials. pipework from the bracket, avoiding all For more information on the lightthese issues. Together with the adjoining weight PET core Armafix pipe support Armaflex material it forms a highly range from Armacell, visit effective, long term insulation system for hot and cold applications. www.armacell.com/uk CMYKCMYK / .ai / .ai CMYK / .ai
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AI R CONDI TI O N I N G
out & about
FEMI DETERMINED TO DRIVE The man tasked with building Hitachi’s presence in the UK air conditioning market outlines his strategy for growth to ACR Journal Editor David Todd. Femi with Technical Support Engineer Mark Hancock
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ven a cursory glance at the comments on Gboyega Obafemi’s LinkedIn profile is enough to recognise a trend. Almost every post features either the word ‘drive’ or ‘driven’ and there is no doubting his focus when we meet at Hitachi’s UK base in Maidenhead.
“The drive for me is growth and always has been,’’ says Femi (‘the G on Gboyega is silent but don’t worry, everyone calls me Femi”). “What’s my management style? To drive the business forward aggressively, using the experience I have gained from previous roles.’’ That experience helped him land the job of Managing Director – Hitachi Air Conditioning Europe (UK & IRL). He had spent three years as Managing Director of both Carrier Corporation and Toshiba Carrier between 2007 and 2010, then
a similar amount of time as Executive Director – Europe HVAC and Control Products with Johnson Controls. Before taking over at Hitachi in October last year (a position which renewed his links with Johnson Controls following the merger of the two companies) he was Vice-President and Managing Director – Emerging Markets, for valve specialist Watts Water Technologies.
Excited
Femi had been in position for a little over six months when we met and believes there has already been a fundamental
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O UT A N D A BO UT
HITACHI FORWARD shift in the business. “We need the right people and the right culture,’’ he says. Progress has been such that that he firmly believes that Hitachi can be ‘where it should be’ in the marketplace within the next six months. There is a school of thought that Hitachi has not been very vocal about its innovative products in the past. Femi is understandably reluctant to get involved in that debate but you get the impression that his way of doing things may be quite different. “I am excited by the fact that we have great products to take to the market. I am excited by innovation and quality engineering. After a period of consolidation for Hitachi, now is the time to drive this business forward.’’
FEMI HAS A THREE-POINT PLAN TO ACHIEVE THIS: 1 Drive specification “We need to be proactive and take the initiative whenever possible. We are investing in our Specifying Sales Engineers. Three new Area Sales Managers have also arrived in recent weeks, covering London and South East, Scotland, and the North West and Wales.” 2 Develop relationships with M&E sector “To be involved from the beginning of the cycle we need to grow our relationships with the Mechanical & Engineering people. They design and build, and we need them to know what Hitachi can offer across our product range.” 3 Build a solid distribution network “Training is a vital part of building and improving our distribution network. I want to know that when someone contacts a distributor, Hitachi is the solution they will recommend.”
‘I AM EXCITED BY INNOVATION AND QUALITY ENGINEERING’
Set Free VRF with CS Net Control Hitachi was the first manufacturer to provide off coil temperature control as standard. Available across the Set Free VRF range managed with CS Net control systems, the cold draught prevention is designed to improve the working conditions and productivity of staff, reduce customer complaints and cut call-outs for engineers. In standard VRF systems the control is only on the Return Air Temperature, so when the heat load demand is low the discharge air temperature could be reduced, sometimes below a comfortable level, creating a cold draught. Staff will invariably adjust the room thermostat to increase the room air temperature to compensate.
The CS Net central controller with off coil protection works in conjunction with the System Free indoor units which each have an Air On Thermistor, Air Off Thermistor, Liquid Thermistor, Gas Thermistor and Electronic Expansion Valve. Via CS Net it is possible to set a minimum Air Off temperature in cooling mode for the indoor units to avoid cold draughts when the discharge air temperature is below the desired one, resetting the unit to Thermo-On once it is back inside the comfort range. Hitachi’s Technical Sales team can help customers specify and design a system, or the HiToolKit software along with an effective Schedule tool can be used to plan, select and design a complete VRF system in minutes. Expanded Yutakiheat pump line-up Redesigned to meet the needs of specifiers, installers and homeowners, Hitachi’s expanded Yutaki air source heat pump range is one of the widest on the market. The extended line-up comprises 70 new models which are more compact for small installation spaces and are lighter weight for easier handling. The Yutaki-S has three 4.3kW, 6.0kW and 7.5kW indoor units with dimensions of 600 x 792 x 300mm to fit a standard kitchen cupboard space. Efficiency has also been improved with COPs up to 5.25 and with an Energy Class Rating up to A+++. Yutaki-S is suitable for the heating and domestic hot water requirements of small to large properties, and is ideal for both new build and renovation projects. The all-in-one Yutaki-SCombi integrated solution has been designed specifically for the UK market. The indoor unit has a built-in 200 or 260L stainless steel hot water cylinder, as well as the main hydraulic components such as the pump, filter and back up heater, plus a newly-designed controller. The indoor unit is pre-plumbed and pre-wired, making the installation simpler with less internal space needed. The high temperature Yutaki-S80, which generates domestic hot water at up to 80C, has been completely redesigned with easier connections at the top of the indoor unit for simpler installation. Utilising Hitachi’s unique ‘smart cascade’ design, the Yutaki-S80 can be used as a replacement for inefficient boilers without changing radiator sizes or any existing hot water tank. The compact monobloc Yutaki-M requires no refrigeration pipework or internal unit. With a new controller, reduced noise levels, greater outputs up to 16kW and improved efficiencies, with COPs up to 5.0 and an Energy Class Rating of up to A++, Yutaki-M has been redesigned to meet the needs of the UK market. CMYKCMYK / .ai / .ai CMYK / .ai
All Yutaki models can now be supplied with a Cooling Kit accessory to enable both heating and cooling modes. For more information on the full range of Hitachi products, visit www.hitachiaircon.com
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AI R MOV E M EN T
Every day we eat 1kg OF FOOD consume 2kg OF LIQUID and breathe 25kg OF AIR‌
Nick Baldwin, of air management specialists Mansfield Pollard, looks at the challenge of striking the right balance between Indoor Air Quality and energy efficiency.
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utdoor air pollution levels and energy efficiency are frequently talked about in the media and , most recently, the topic of Indoor Air Quality (IAQ) has been making the headlines. But the fundamental principles of energy efficiency and good IAQ are at odds. Energy efficiency requires a tightly sealed building to minimise the escape of heated or cooled air, reduce outdoor air infiltration, and restricted use of HVAC systems; good IAQ calls for sufficient quantities of clean air to enable a sense of wellness without toxic pollutants and for carefully controlled temperature and humidity.
To successfully improve energy efficiency and good indoor environmental quality, a balanced approach is required. Since most people will spend nearly 90% of their time living or working in a built environment it is not appropriate to expose human health to large quantities of harmful particulates (and gases) in the name of protecting the environment. Neither is it appropriate to act in a reckless way with regards to the use of our limited natural resources. An essential factor in providing adequate fresh air efficiently is that the HVAC systems must be fitted with effective filtration to prevent the majority of particles (and gases) in the outdoor air from making their way indoors.
Concern
A poorly/incorrectly ventilated working environment can affect your business in a variety of costly ways. These can include low employee morale, computer downtime, damaged interiors and high capital expenditure to replace prematurely
Experience
deteriorated air conditioning systems. In addition, indoor air quality has a huge bearing on human performance. As IAQ reduces there is a direct correlation with productivity and an increase in sickness levels. A recent Healthvent EU research project reported that almost two thirds of the burden of disease traced back to poor IAQ was a result of pollutants coming into a building. The reducing quality of outdoor air, especially in major conurbations is a cause for concern. However, this risk can be significant mitigated via effective prefiltration prior to air entering the building. The global introduction of ISO 16890 filter classification, based on particulate classes, means that filter specification can be aligned to the real condition of the desired application. An essential factor in maintaining efficiency is regular maintenance. It has been shown that PREVENTATIVE rather than reactive maintenance can reduce energy consumption cost by 5%-40% depending on the system or equipment involved, and improve equipment life and uptime.
Likewise, the space being supplied by the HVAC equipment should be evaluated regularly for changes in occupancy and use, as activities conducted in a space also contributes heavily to indoor air pollution. Mansfield Pollard has extensive experience of working closely with a variety of sectors to provide ventilation solutions which minimise operating costs whilst meeting with the appropriate regulations. Our customers are looking for a company that can deliver on its promises and understand the importance of regulatory compliance and the provision of safe and comfortable environments.
Solutions
It is crucial that we can understand exactly what the customer requires and work with them, and any other stakeholders, to develop a solution which provides the best overall outcome in terms of capital outlay and operating costs. It is also vital to have a good understanding of the current regulatory framework and a strong sense of how that is likely to develop over time. Many of the companies that we work with have outdated ventilation systems which require updating to meet regulatory requirements and to take advantage of new more efficient technologies which, in turn, leads to a reduction in operating costs. Our aim is to provide innovative ventilation solutions, with a focus on energy efficiency whilst working with our customers to minimise any operational disruption. The success we have experienced demonstrates that our customers value the solutions which we design and deliver and the way that we manage projects.
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BESPOKE AHU FOR NUFFIELD HEALTH Mans�eld Pollard was appointed by Nu�eld Health to upgrade the swimming pool air handling units at its Fitness & Wellbeing Crawley Central Club in West Sussex.
The Bradford-based manufacturer replaced the existing Calorex units – which were in a poor state of repair – with a single combined AHU to serve both pool areas and increase energy efficiency with a more easily maintainable unit. The project required meticulous planning and coordination between the specialist engineers and designers as the units were situated in a small rooftop plantroom with limited access. The new AHU had to be flat packed and built within the plantroom to reduce crane lift operations and overcome the difficult access to the building. Mansfield Pollard designed the AHU, ductwork, attenuators and controls, and also carried out the mechanical and electrical installation before finally commissioning the trend control system; all fully completed in a two week period. To allow the pool to remain operational, the existing supply and return air ducts were connected to temporary fans and a small LPHW coil was connected to the heating services so a suitable environment could be maintained for the gym members whilst the work continued.
Challenges
John Watkins, Technical Services Manager for Nuffield Health, said: “This project had a very strict time schedule so it was extremely important for us to partner with a company that shared our work ethic. “We were impressed with Mansfield Pollard’s flexible approach and with the way that they worked with us to overcome the challenges that we faced. Everyone worked extremely well together, and under some very restrictive conditions. We were delighted that the project was delivered on time.” Paul Dresser, Commercial Director for Mansfield Pollard, said: “We were thrilled to work with Nuffield Health once again. Our team of experts also provide the Health Technical Memorandum (HTM) specification hospital air handling units within Nuffield Health’s hospital business, and we are proud to support and work with Nuffield Health in maintaining its estate. This on-going relationship is another example of how our air management experts can recommend solutions that not only tackle the problem but exceed expectations.” www.mansfieldpollard.co.uk CMYKCMYK / .ai / .ai CMYK / .ai
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R ET ROFI T T I N G
RETROFITTING
a cost-effective way to boost efficiency
A shaky economic climate has led many people to adopt a ‘make do and mend’ approach to HVAC plant rather than investing in new equipment. In fact, says John Grenville, Managing Director of ECEX, there is a useful halfway house – retrofitting – which offers an ideal opportunity to improve a building’s efficiency relatively inexpensively.
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he UK has the most advanced environmental legislation in the world in the Climate Change Act 2008. This places a legal obligation on the country to cut emissions by a challenging 26% by 2020 and by 80% by 2050.
Further evidence that we are in the vanguard of countries committed to reducing carbon emissions is evident in the government’s recently published industrial strategy, which sets out a positive framework for the low-carbon economy we need. And delivering affordable, sustainable energy is a central pillar in this.
Energy performance
The complete replacement of an AHU is not always the best option
However, pledges are worthless unless they inspire positive action. And there is a pressing need for us to act – there are, according to some estimates, 26 million existing homes and around two million non-domestic buildings in the UK that make a significant impact on the carbon footprint of our built environment. Most of these buildings will still be standing in 2050. They will need to be improved significantly if we are to meet our stringent carbon-cutting targets. The question is: How?
One important answer is retrofitting. Essentially, this means adding a component or accessory to something that didn’t have it when manufactured, but which improves its performance. Retrofitting and refurbishment of existing buildings are an excellent opportunity to upgrade their energy performance. The retrofit might involve modifications to existing buildings to improve energy efficiency or decrease energy demand. Done properly, a retrofit can significantly cut operational costs, particularly in older buildings, as well as improve the comfort of occupants. Non-domestic buildings account for 18% of the UK’s carbon emissions and the Carbon Trust has estimated that cutting 2005’s carbon dioxide (CO2) emissions from non-domestic buildings by 35% could save the UK £4.5 billion a year by 2020. So there is a financial as well as an environmental imperative for retrofitting. The Empire State building in New York offers a perfect example of effective retrofitting.
ECEX Air Intake Screens being fitted
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R ET RO F I T T I N G
Retrofitting can be more environmentally friendly because parts are reused
A $20-million modernisation programme – which included everything from cleaning and re-insulating more than 6,000 windows to caulking leaks in the facade – has reduced energy use in the 102-storey building by nearly 40%. But retrofit projects don’t always involve a large investment like this. And you don’t have to take on a high risk or unproven technology in order to complete a low carbon refurbishment.
Simple measure
Air conditioning manufacturers are well used to retrofitting as a concept. After all, they are obliged to employ refrigerants that meet strict environmental requirements and this can involve replacing them with alternatives as the regulations change. An alternative refrigerant capable of being retrofitted is, of course, less expensive and less disruptive than having to change the entire air conditioning system because the new refrigerant is not compatible with the system. So, ‘drop-in’ refrigerants for air conditioning systems can be problematic. However, a simple measure that can boost the energy efficiency of ac systems and reduce their environmental impact is to fit ECEX Air Intake Screens. These are long lasting, weatherresistant filters designed specifically for high velocity airflow applications such as chillers, dry air
coolers, air handling units (AHUs), cooling towers and air conditioning units. They are designed to prevent airborne debris from entering the air conditioning or ventilation system and cause irreparable damage to coils or internal filters. Lasting up to 15 years and cleaned simply using a soft brush, hose or vacuum, ECEX Air Intake Screens are the ideal first line of defence for air intake systems, reducing maintenance time by up to an impressive 70%, extending the service life of equipment, prolonging internal air filter life by up to 60%, and maximising airflow to save energy. However, retrofitting is not the only answer to improving a building’s performance. Repair and maintenance also have a part to play.
Compelling reasons
The complete replacement of an AHU, for example, is not always the best option, especially if it is on a building in a built-up area or located in a position where access is limited. Refurbishment and repair will extend their lifespan, increase their operating efficiency, save energy, boost performance, and reduce running costs.
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But there are also many other compelling reasons to choose maintenance and repair. For example, it is less expensive than replacing an AHU (typically just 35 to 50% of the cost of a new unit) and offers the opportunity to upgrade the existing specification by taking advantage of the latest energy efficient EC plug fans and components. It also minimises disruption by increasing installation flexibility, reduces downtime, overcomes the transport and access difficulties associated with replacing a unit, and is more environmentally friendly because it re-uses existing equipment. Furthermore, repair or refurbishment can extend the service life of an AHU by 15 to 20 years, it leaves existing services such as ductwork, pipework and wiring unaltered, and it can reduce energy consumption dramatically.
Right people
The best engineering businesses will offer a maintenance and repair service. Our own, for example, covers the repair and replacement of all types of coils, belt drives, motors, fans, bearings and spares. This service joins ECEX’s existing services, which include access safety and metalwork fabrication; mechanical engineering (from replacing pipework and valves to upgrading or downsizing water storage tanks); and energy saving and building compliance solutions. The Carbon Trust has said: “Although there has been much recent focus on measures to reduce the emissions from new buildings, the existing building stock remains largely untouched and many refurbishment projects miss opportunities to reduce emissions and deliver low carbon buildings.” The key to a successful retrofitting or maintenance project is to get the right people on board before you start ruling out options, and even before you set a final budget. And, of course, the right people include experts in retrofitting, repair and refurbishment of HVAC systems.
ECEX delivers AHU refurbishment services and is the sole European distributor of ECEX Air Intake Screens. For more information, visit www.ecex.co.uk
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MINI SPLIT CONDENSER SUPPORT FRAME
THE INSTALL GUIDE
Big Foot Systems’ new Lock ‘N’ Load Frame offers an alternative AC support solution for engineers, removing the need to fabricate time consuming and costly DIY strut supports. Simple to fit, the Lock ‘N’ Load boasts an easy push and lock system speeding up on site assembly, saving valuable time on an AC installation. Conveniently available from local distributor branches
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Fit all four legs onto corner pieces.
3
Fit legs into feet by pushing directly down through corner pieces, being careful not to twist or bend the corner piece.
boxed and ready to use on site, this lightweight pre-fabricated solution allows engineers to collect and carry the frame to the project site and construct it easily and simply, saving time and hassle. One Box. Over the counter. Built in 15 minutes. This guide explains how to build the new Lock ‘N’ Load frame in 7 easy to follow steps.
2
Secure all four legs loosely with M6x40 bolts. (Supplied)
4
Fit the crossbars and slide to required position.
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AS P EN P UM PS A DV ERTO R I A L
5
6
Locate M6 nut in captive area under crossbar. Thread bolt through from outside using nylon spacer between plastic faces and tighten to 15Nm using a 10mm socket with short extension.
Using a level, raise the corner connectors in legs and tighten leg bolts to 25Nm using a 10mm socket and 10mm spanner.
Nylon Spacer
7
FIXING KIT (SUPPLIED) x4 M10 Fixing Bolts x8 M6 Fixings x4 Rubber Washers x4 Nylon Spacer REQUIRED ASSEMBLY KIT 10mm socket with short extension 10mm spanner 17mm spanner
Attach rubber washers to four fixing bolts and push and twist into crossbars. Mount unit and tighten nuts to no more than10Nm using a 17mm spanner.
For more information, please contact Big Foot Systems on: bigfootsupport.com
enquiry@bigfootsupport.com
ONE BOX. OVER THE COUNTER. BUILT IN 15 MINUTES.* CMYKCMYK / .ai / .ai CMYK / .ai
www.bigfootsupport.com
*Based on an average of x3 installs under laboratory conditions.
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R E F R I G E R AT I O N
DOING NOTHING IS N Ed Whinyates of Stonegrove Refrigeration Services asks whether everyone is ready for the continued phase out of high GWP refrigerants.
W
ith over two years still to go before the next refrigerant ban on high GWP (Global Warming Potential) refrigerants – European regulation 517/2014 – the warning levels from manufacturers (and to a lesser extent refrigeration and air conditioning installation companies) about the need for customers to change existing systems impacted by the regulation has been high. With ongoing price rises and refrigerant manufacturers’ quotas being significantly cut in 2018, a number of issues need to be considered.
Is there a supply disaster looming?
This all depends on how seriously clients are taking the warnings. With equipment for some of the phase out refrigerants still being produced, there are fears that
end users are ignoring the concerns and warnings of refrigerant scarcity and redundant equipment. There are a number of high GWP refrigerants affected by the ‘cull’ in 2020. Due to being the most widely used, the refrigerant that is being impacted the most is R404A. Because of this, R404A is being used as the ‘phase out poster boy’ and the one most referenced when talking about the problems that are being predicted.
What is happening and being said about R404A?
All of the leading refrigerant manufacturers have applied price increases. For example, in April refrigerant manufacturer Chemours increased the price of R404A by 25%, and a further 30% in May, with continued price rises anticipated throughout the year. It has been reported that the refrigerant
Low GWP Solutions for 404A Refrigerant
Ashrae classification
GWP AR4
Type of Technology
R404A
A1
3922
Banned 2020 Banned 2020
R507
A1
3985
R407A
A1
2107
R407F
A1
1825
R452A
A1
2140
R449A
A1
1397
R448A
A1
1387
R454A
A2L
239
R454C
A2L
148
R455A
A2L
148
CO2
A1
1
Ammonia
B2L
0
Hydrocarbons
A3
2-7
HFC Blends, R404A replacements
HFO Blends, R404A replacements
Non-Fluorinated Low GWP Refrigerants New Equipment only
FOR NEW EQUIPMENT THE MANUFACTURER WILL CHOOSE
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S NOT AN OPTION manufacturer Honeywell have even gone as far as announcing they will stop sales of R404A in 2018. This does not bode well for any company who are reliant on an R404A refrigeration system. A leading UK supplier has warned that the F-Gas “honeymoon” is over and there may be limitations on supply. Next year it won’t be about pricing, it will be about availability.
Why is this happening?
Unlike the R22 phase out leading up to 2015, the phase out of the high GWP refrigerants isn’t just a timeline where one day you can add it to a system and the next day you cannot. There is a forced reduction of the amount of refrigerant being manufactured. This is due to the 37% cut in CO2e required next year under the European F-gas regulations being implemented on 1st January 2018. (CO2e is the abbreviation for carbon dioxide equivalent. It is a standard unit for measuring carbon footprints. The idea is to express the impact of each different greenhouse gas in terms of the amount of CO2 that would create the same amount of warming). This means the European industry will have a maximum of 115Mt (Mega tonnes) CO2e – a little over twothirds of the 168Mt CO2e consumed in 2015. Crucially, 2020 also sees the imposition of a service ban being applied to all systems with a charge size of more than 40Tonnes CO2e, which is around 10kg. It is also important to note that R507 and R422D will also be impacted by this service ban.
What can be done to avoid short term problems?
The most obvious thing would be to try and negate the need to top up a system by reducing or preventing the possibility of a system leak. A wellmaintained system with regular leak checks is advisable. A client’s refrigeration maintenance provider can offer sensible and suitable advice on the best way of achieving this. If practical, the installation
of a leak detection system would also be of benefit in catching a leak before too much refrigerant is lost.
What are the longer term options?
Due to the service ban for any system with a charge of 40TCO2e for R404A, R507 & R422D, the options are limited to two choices. Either look at a replacement refrigerant to retrofit to an existing system, or replace the system all together. As with the phase out of R22, there are a number of benefits for both options. A retrofit would be less capital expenditure. Refrigerant manufacturers have produced alternatives to the high GWP refrigerants that are being phased out. For example, a number of lower GWP alternatives are also available to retrofit existing R404A equipment. However, there is no guarantee that at some point in the future the new alternatives will not be affected by further changes to regulation. Installing a new system could future proof a client against any potential refrigerant GWP law changes, and offer the most up to date technology and better energy efficiency. This, however, will be a more costly option.
In conclusion: are you ready for the continued phase out of high GWP refrigerants?
There is no getting away from the enormous impact that is already being felt. This will only get worse if inactivity is not replaced by action. It is not just the end user who needs to take responsibility for taking action. Refrigeration companies also need to start working with their affected clients now on how to manage the phase out impact and come up with sensible solutions. Burying our heads in the sand is not an option. For further information about how Stonegrove can help you with your refrigeration and air conditioning requirements, please visit our website www.stonegroverefrigeration.co.uk or contact us on 01279 408690 ed@stonegroverefrigeration.co.uk
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THE POWER TO BE
CLEAN AND COOL David Sanders, Commercial Director of Dearman, explains the challenge of delivering cleaner cooling for the future.
W
hether it’s refrigeration in homes and transport, or cooling industrial datacentres and supermarkets, society depends on cooling. However, with more recognition of the environmental impacts created by our need to keep people and things cool, there is a greater onus upon industry to develop cleaner and greener technologies and practices.
This scrutiny could pose a serious challenge for companies and players in the sector; but it’s also a chance to discover and adopt new, innovative technologies that can make cooling more competitive and more sustainable. The cooling sector is a core part of the UK’s economy and society. We depend on it in a number of ways across our healthcare system, food and drink delivery, air-conditioning, cooling and refrigerated storage.
Without our cold chain, levels of waste, bacteria and ill-health would be higher and harder to control.
Inefficient
But to maintain delivery and meet consumer satisfaction across the cold sector, companies across the UK have over 80,000 refrigerated transportation vehicles in use. Indeed, supermarkets run fleets of up to 3,500 refrigerated vehicles each, while the large logistics firms delivering goods to restaurants and delicatessens tend to have between 2,000 and 6,000 vehicles each. Many are powered by a significantly inefficient, polluting diesel engine, which can emit 29 times as much particulate matter and six times as much nitrogen oxide as a modern truck engine. To put this into context, all the transport refrigeration units in the UK
produce the same amount of pollution as four million diesel cars, and when we consider that around 40,000 people in the UK die early every year from exposure to pollutants such as nitrogen oxide and particulate matter, it is no surprise that authorities are putting the pressure on businesses and local authorities to reduce pollution levels. And the public are noticing too. According to recent research, more than three-quarters (76%) of people in the UK want clean air zones to bring Britain’s cities into line with European standards. Respondents also showed strong support for action on air quality to be taken, with 76% backing the introduction of Clean Air Zones or Ultra Low Emission Zones in their city. This shows a real need for those running parts of the cold chain to listen to the views of public concern.
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The Dearman engine offer the opportunity to slash pollution levels
Options
Increasing political pressure and a growing range of environmentally friendly technologies are causing some of the leading businesses in mobile refrigeration to take the lead and adopt next generation cooling technology. Companies such as Daikin, Air Liquide and Linde are all entering the market. One option comes in the form of liquid nitrogen, or thin air, invented and developed by British engine technology start-up Dearman. We are developing a piston engine transport refrigeration system that uses liquid nitrogen as a source of both emission free power and cooling. By cooling air to around -196 degrees using standard industrial equipment powered by wrong-time energy, the liquid can be stored (in an unpressurised insulated vessel) – and transported by road tanker. When heat is reintroduced to liquid air it expands 700 times and turns back into a gas to drive a piston engine – producing power and significant amounts of zero-emission cold. This means that the Dearman engine eliminates all of a TRU’s nitrogen oxide and particulate matter emissions. Our technology, originally discovered and developed by Peter Dearman, replaces diesel with cryogenic technology, offering operators of refrigerated vehicle fleets an alternative power source and opportunity. By using liquid nitrogen-powered vehicle engines in transport refrigeration vehicles, we have the opportunity to slash pollution levels. It doesn’t stop there. Dearman’s technology could also replace existing air conditioning units on buses in hot countries, where 40pc of the diesel in the vehicle is used to cool passengers. This is an exciting opportunity for the cold and cooling sector which so far has struggled to find a ‘perfect’ alternative to dieselpowered cooling on public transport.
Potential
The Dearman engine can also replace highly polluting diesel gensets to provide zero-emission back-up power and cooling for cold stores, data centres and commercial buildings. This combination of cold and power is particularly valuable in countries where peak electricity demand is driven by air conditioning, which often causes power cuts. Liquid air is an effective means of storing off-peak energy to supply peak time cooling loads, which could be made even more cost effective by the integration of LNG waste cold. For many, the reality of the Dearman engine is a much-awaited victory in the sustainable community. From a garden shed to a prosperous technology
company with over £40m worth of public and private investment, there is an opportunity for fleet managers, facilities managers and engineers to take on a new way of powering the cold and cooling sector that is both affordable and effective. Whilst the developments made by companies such as Dearman are huge and have the potential to advance the debate on how we tackle the challenges posed by climate change, unless companies take up the new ways to provide sustainable and energy efficient refrigeration, air conditioning and chilled transportation, there will be little impact on the air pollution challenges that we face. dearman.co.uk
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ADV E RTOR I A L
NO PRICE INCREASE FOR ADDED BENEFITS OF R32 With the launch of the new R32 Mr Slim Power Inverter range, Mitsubishi Electric is sending a big signal to the market that it’s time to choose the next generation of innovative and versatile air conditioning.
“
Anyone who uses air conditioning, commissions it, designs it, installs or maintains it needs to understand the rami�cations of the F-Gas Regulations and what this means for them, their clients and their buildings,” explains Carl Dickinson on behalf of the company.
In March 2014, the European Parliament passed the 2014 EU F-Gas Regulation legislation with the sole objective of reducing F-Gas emissions by 79% between 2015 and 2030, by cutting the availability of hydrofluorocarbons (HFCs) with a high Global Warming Potential (GWP). Any option for the next generation of refrigerant gas must be able to meet the demands of this stringent legislation in reducing the environmental impact of HFCs – and that’s where the R32 Mr Slim Power Inverter range comes in. The chosen solution – R32 refrigerant, has a GWP of 675 compared to R410A refrigerant which has a GWP of 2,088 and Dickinson sees this as an important reason why the market is expected to move quickly to the new refrigerant: “Not only will this help businesses demonstrate what they are doing to help the environment, the use of R32 also allows the Mr Slim units to offer efficiency increases compared to equivalent R410A models.” With a comprehensive range of R32 indoor units, Mitsubishi Electric is bringing familiarity to the market.
Comprehensive line-up
Mitsubishi Electric is first to the UK market with such an expansive line-up and the new R32 Mr Slim Power Inverter “We’ve kept the price exactly the same as our current R410A models have been Mr Slim Power Inverters to built specifically for encourage the adoption of R32.” Carl Dickinson. the new refrigerant. The range includes ten outdoor units offering single-phase and 3-phase options, with a capacity range from 3.5 to 14kW and full heating capacity down to -3°C. 25 individual indoor units are also available as ceiling cassettes, ceiling concealed ducted, wall mounted and ceiling suspended models. Mr Slim Power Inverters are also available in twin and triple multi-split configurations delivering complete flexibility for system designers. The Mr Slim R32 Power Inverter models bring together the latest technology, whilst maintaining the familiarity of the current Mr Slim Power Inverter range as Dickinson explains: “The size, look, feel and controls for the new R32 models remain the same as existing R410A Power Inverter models, so that changing over to R32 will be as easy as possible for building owners.
“We have recognised that familiarity is important for global brands, such as high street retailers that need to ensure consistency of design, whatever size of building they operate,” he adds, “this should make it easier for companies that want to embrace R32 to show how they are helping combat global warming.
Longer pipe runs
Not only do the systems offer better performance at the same price, they also offer longer pipe runs with 100 metres available on the 10kW, 12.5kW and 14kW models – 25 metres longer than the equivalent R410A versions and the longest currently available on the market. This includes a 30 metre lift that is unique in the UK. The longer pipe runs are designed to make Mr Slim R32 even more flexible and allow systems to be installed where previous site restrictions would not allow. “We have also kept the price exactly the same as our current R410A Mr Slim Power Inverter line up as we see this eliminating a big hurdle in the adoption of this new refrigerant, which is an important change to help combat global warming,” explains Dickinson. The new R32 Mr Slim line-up is available from July 2017 and further information is available on the dedicated website www.timeforr32.co.uk/adv12 Mr Slim R32 Power Inverter models are available in twin and triple split configurations with extended 100m pipe runs including a 30m lift.
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PEACE OF MIND DOES EXIST. IT’S CALLED CERTIFICATION.
ENJOY CERTIFIED QUALITY IN YOUR EVAPORATIVE COOLING SYSTEM. Third-party certified performance data is instrumental to enable transparency, allow fair comparison, and highlight the true energy costs. The COOLING TOWER certification programme “Eurovent Certified Performance” helps eliminate over-sizing and expensive customer verification tests due to underperforming uncertainty, while keeping operating costs under control. This programme responds to the Ecodesign regulations.
Check performances on line www.eurovent-certification.com
The COOLING TOWER certification is actively supported by the participating manufacturers:
By Eurovent Certita Certification, a leading Third-Party certification body in Indoor climate - Ventilation & Air quality Process cooling & Food cold chain. Getty Images © Hans Neleman
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T RAI NI NG
Toshiba takes lead
ON TRAINING
Toshiba has a network of training facilities
Toshiba is now one of the largest providers of air conditioning training in the country, with nearly 5000 people attending its courses over the past three years. ACR Journal reports on the company’s practical approach and the latest initiatives in development.
centres in 2014, it has established a network of facilities across the UK. The centres are equipped with examples of fully functioning residential, light commercial and the latest VRF systems for hands-on training and diagnostic practice. They also have a range of control systems to enable engineers to familiarise themselves with set-up, commissioning and servicing procedures.
Quality
THE RANGE OF INITIATIVES WE ARE PIONEERING WILL HOPEFULLY STIMULATE PROGRESS”
The major air conditioning manufacturers have a responsibility to take a lead on training. It is in everyone’s interests to improve skills and the level of professionalism and competence across the industry.”
So says David Dunn, Director and General Manager of Toshiba Air Conditioning and CIAT Ozonair, who has made training one of the key strategic priorities for the company. It is not just lip service; the manufacturer has invested significant sums in training infrastructure and initiatives, and this continues with a number of fresh initiatives that put training and skills at the centre of its approach to the market. Since the company announced its intention to set up a series of training
Some 4723 people have attended courses at Toshiba training centres since 2014, making the company one of, if not the largest provider of air conditioning training in the country. And the pace is quickening as the quality of training has become recognised and installers see the competitive and commercial benefits. There are currently 13 training centres, located at Toshiba’s own offices and distributor locations across the country. A new dedicated CIAT training facility focussing on its own technology is opening shortly at Leatherhead. The three most popular courses are Air Conditioning Installation and Service, VRF Installation, and Service and Controls. This has been driven to a large degree by Toshiba’s fresh approach to warranty cover, which is now linked to installer skills and competence rather than of size of spend.
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A Toshiba training and test rig for SkillFRIDGE
David Dunn said: “The industry’s approach to warranty cover over many years has traditionally been based on how much a customer spends with the manufacturer. This is unhelpful and illogical, as in practical terms what matters for warranty purposes is the technical proficiency of the installer, and how competent they are in carrying out installation, commissioning and on-going servicing of the equipment.” The Toshiba scheme recognises this, and gives due weight to the level of technical training and competence of installers, translating this into a commensurate level of warranty cover.
Hands-on
Under the scheme, to achieve the highest level of cover, a seven-year enhanced warranty, installers must be F-Gas registered, have successfully completed three relevant Toshiba training courses, and file commissioning and maintenance reports for a project online. Alongside theoretical and handson training, the company also offers a programme of CPD modules. These are aimed primarily at consultants and system designers wishing to keep abreast of the latest technology and changes in legislation, but are open to all. In addition to courses on the fundamentals of air conditioning, there are modules on the application of aircooled VRF systems, and the use of mechanical and natural cooling systems.
Skills
There is a session dedicated to understanding how refrigerant leak detection pump down systems work, and how to ensure they comply with current legislation regarding refrigerant in occupied spaces. It explains how designers and installers can demonstrate compliance in relation to BREEAM credits, as well as conformity with British Standard EN378. In line with the increasing attention being given to energy performance, there is a module dedicated to the practical aspects of applying SEER and COP calculations to VRF systems (in line with Part L of the Building Regulations, 2nd tier document). It also covers the application of the Simplified Building Energy Model (SBEM).
Looking to the future, the company has a number of initiatives underway to extend its training offering. It is developing a programme of online courses, to give people the opportunity to update their skills at a time, place and pace to suit them and their business. These should be rolled out later this year. It will allow people to log onto an online training portal and complete selected courses at their own speed.
Excellence
It is also establishing three mobile training facilities, with working air conditioning rigs, that can be transported to customers’ locations around the country, to give hands-on experience in installation, commissioning and servicing. These are expected to be operational soon. The mobile units are based on Toshiba air conditioning training rigs used to train and test SkillFRIDGE candidates. Toshiba is lead sponsor of SkillFRIDGE, the national skills competition designed to reward excellence and drive up standards across the ACR industry. David added: “SkillFRIDGE is a fantastic initiative. It incentivises and rewards trainees, the industry’s life-blood and potential leaders of tomorrow, in pursuit of excellence. It is very much in line with our own focus and priorities as a company. “Improving skill levels is a key strategic issue for the industry. As a leading manufacturer we are committed to playing
our part to help achieve this. It is obviously in our interests as a manufacturer to raise the level of technical proficiency among contractors, but also opens up new opportunities for installers while delivering major benefits to end users. The range of initiatives we are pioneering will hopefully stimulate progress in this area and raise the bar for the industry as a whole, to the benefit of all.” For more details and to book courses, contact Toshiba Training Administrator Nathan Ormson: Nathan.Ormson@toshiba-ac.com or call 0870 843 0333 (Option 7).
Around 5000 people have attended Toshiba training courses over the past three years
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WOME N I N ACR
WOMEN in the
ACR industry
HELEN JEWELL
This month, the ACR Journal interviewed Helen Jewell, Service Operations Manager at Accent Services (Air Conditioning), based in Sunbury-on-Thames. What do you specialise in now?
I manage the engineers and admin staff within the ever-expanding service department side of the business. When I joined Accent 10 years ago, there were only 8 engineers managed by myself and one of the directors. There are now 21 engineers and 6 of us managing this department. Our engineers are multi-skilled and are very talented individuals, who each offer their own particular expertise.
What excites/interests you about the industry?
Where did you study?
English Literature at the Open University.
What was your first job?
My first job ever was at 15 years and 3 months, when I started work in a local chemist. My lovely grandad found me this Saturday job and I absolutely loved it.
Where do you work now?
Accent Services (Air Conditioning) Limited. We design, install, service and maintain all types of a/c units and chillers. We are also largely involved in Cat A/B office refurbishments and all areas of HVAC.
What attracted you to the industry?
It was a total accident! Initially I was only temping but I found the job very engaging, even though I’m not technical. I was surprised by how much I picked up and enjoyed it. I’ve now been in the industry for over 15 years. I started as a co-ordinator and within 18 months I was promoted to Supervisor and then Service Manager. I’ve been able to implement many new systems and procedures which on the whole have gone down extremely well.
The diversity and variety – every client has different requirements, every building is different. We look after many prestigious new and historic buildings and air conditioning is essential for a comfortable working environment. There is also a lot of room for progression for people of all levels. We have an apprenticeship scheme here and I get a lot satisfaction out of seeing our apprentices’ progress to fully qualified senior chiller engineers. We invest heavily in training which stands us in good stead in our rapidly expanding business. Investment in people is key.
How do you see your career developing? I genuinely love my job and the company I work for, and have enjoyed how it has developed over the last decade. I would like to see our department flourish even further and this in turn will increase all of our career opportunities.
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WOM E N I N AC R
Refrigerants
Your low GWP solution for today & tomorrow! • Complies with F-Gas Regulations • Readily available for quick and easy retrofits, refits and new equipment • Designed for a wide range of RAC applications • Improved energy efficiency and reduced impact on the environment
What is the best piece of advice you were ever given?
That you can’t control other people’s behaviour, but you can change how you react to them. This is great advice when faced with a challenging situation.
“Our customers see Opteon™ low GWP refrigerants as the new industry standard” Mark Hughes Business Development Manager OpteonTM Refrigerants EMEA Chemours UK
What are the challenges of this industry? We’ve had a lot of challenges such as changes in legislation, competition, global warming, and now potentially Brexit which can often lead to opportunities. Companies need to adapt and grow with all of these changes, otherwise they will be left behind.
What are the benefits of being in your role?
Working with such friendly and skilled people, from suppliers, to staff, to customers. My role is extremely varied and no day is ever the same. It certainly keeps me on my toes!
What would you say to other women who are considering coming into the ACR industry?
To not be put off that this industry is currently predominantly staffed by men. It’s a fantastic career whatever your age or gender. Men and women think and work differently, and all ways are beneficial. At the end of the day, the start doesn’t matter, it’s how you finish.
Our distribution partners in the UK at:
www.opteon.com
Are you a candidate for our Women in ACR feature? Or do you know someone who is? Please contact David Todd, david.todd@warnersgroup.co.uk, 01778 392094.
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© 2016 The Chemours Company FC,LLC. Opteon™ and any associated logos are trademarks or copyrights of The Chemours Company FC,LLC. Chemours™ and the Chemours Logo are trademarks of The Chemours Company.
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CAS E ST U DY
GREENWAY THE NATURAL
CHOICE FOR GRIFFITHS Solar thermal solution at local school
Griffiths first used Greenway Neo, a plant-based heat transfer fluid from Climalife, on a solar thermal system which had lost its charge of mono propylene glycol (MPG) through a leak. The MPG alternative produced by the fermentation of natural (99.7%) purified glucose syrup is a good choice in these types of applications due to its higher temperature tolerances, when compared to MPG. Griffiths have first-hand knowledge of MPG degradation and also use Climalife’s SolRnett cleaning product when preparing systems for refilling. With Greenway Neo already in stock, Griffiths used it when they had a call to a solar thermal system at a local school. Once again this was a system where the MPG had degraded so SolRnett was used to clean the system prior to being re-charged.
Background Established in 1999, Griffiths Air Conditioning and Electrical Contractors provides a range of building engineering services to domestic, commercial and industrial clients. The business focusses on the installation of heat pumps and air conditioning and also carries out work involving electrics, gas, plumbing, solar panels, ventilation and underfloor heating. The service team also provides essential ongoing aftercare to ensure installed equipment is operating as efficiently as possible. Griffiths AC has shared some of its recent experiences using an environmentally friendly alternative to mono propylene glycol (MPG) and mono ethylene glycol (MEG), Greenway Neo, for solar thermal and ground source heat pump projects.
Solution for ground source heat pumps
Griffiths prefers to use Greenway Neo for ground source heat pumps too. One of the biggest factors in this decision is around concern over the suitability of mono ethylene glycol (MEG), especially near water courses, as it can be toxic for animals and fish. This concern is shared by the GSHP Association.
Ground source heat pump: orangery project
Griffiths has just completed a project where it installed a Daikin 8kW Altherma Monoblock air source heat pump system. Farmer Bill Groome built a 40m² orangery adjoining his farmhouse where Greenway Neo has been used throughout as the HTF. The heat pump is linked directly to a Polypipe ‘In-Screed’ system comprising of a 4 port manifold supplying 18mm underfloor heating pipe secured with castellated floor trays. The pipe was laid at 100mm spacing in a spiral pattern ensuring a comfortable even floor temperature and as low as possible HTF flow temperature whilst still satisfying the buildings heat loss demand. In this
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CAS E ST UDY
XP40
Refrigerant (R-449A)
case weather compensated between 35°C and 45°C. By running an air source heat pump at the lowest temperature possible, in turn the maximum operating efficiency (SPF) was ensured. One of the latest R32 Daikin heat pump AC units was also installed for the orangery by Griffiths.
Problem solved with low GWP Opteon™ XP40
An easy choice
Griffiths AC uses Greenway Neo as its standard heat transfer fluid for all installations, including solar thermal systems, ground and air source heat pumps, Monoblock systems and underfloor heating. Griffiths Technical Manager Matt Griffiths said: “The choice was easy. We only need one product, and we chose the most environmentally acceptable product on the market, which fits our company policy to use renewable products wherever possible.” Demand for environmentally friendly alternatives is increasing. Contact your local supplier for more information.
• Excellent efficiency and performance • Quick and easy replacement for R-404A • ASHRAE A1, non-flammable • One third the GWP of R-404A • Widely available and supported by component manufacturers A Daikin Altherma Monoblock air source heat pump and Daikin R32 heat pump AC unit were installed as part of farmer Bill Groome’s orangery project, with Greenway Neo used as the heat transfer fluid
“Opteon™ XP40 – the best solution for my customers” David Wilkinson General Manager GEA Refrigeration UK Ltd
www.opteon.com
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© 2016 The Chemours Company FC,LLC. Opteon™ and any associated logos are trademarks or copyrights of The Chemours Company FC,LLC. Chemours™ and the Chemours Logo are trademarks of The Chemours Company.
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H E AT P U M P S
WHY OUR NEW GOVERNMENT MUST INCREASE SUPPORT FOR HEAT PUMPS Christian Engelke, Technical Director at Viessmann UK, explains why our new government will have good reasons to enhance financial incentives for heat pump buyers.
budget demands a 50% reduction by 2025. We are not even close to being on course to meeting those targets. Indeed, when the Committee on Climate Change published a so-called ‘Progress Report’ last year, it mostly had to report on the lack of progress. Emissions have dropped in the power sector but progress has stalled in agriculture, industry, transport, and heating in buildings.
W
ith a newly elected government on its way, now is a good time for our industry to lobby for policies to boost heat pump sales. This might sound suspiciously like self-interest, but it’s as much for the government’s benefit as ours: if the UK is to meet legallybinding targets on cutting greenhouse gas emissions, heat pumps will have to play a much greater role in decarbonising space-heating, and soon. This can only be achieved with new government initiatives to encourage the take-up of heat pumps.
Ambitious objectives The UK’s ultimate obligation under the Climate Change Act - to reduce greenhouse gas emissions by 80% from 1990’s levels by 2050 - might seem too far ahead to worry about, but five-yearly carbon budgets have set more pressing targets along the way. The third carbon budget stipulates that emissions must fall by 35% by 2020 and the fourth carbon
Heat pumps should be made more appealing to the 3.6 million homes that are off-grid, such as Baythorne Mill, which has recently had two Viessmann Vitocal 300-G water source heat pumps installed, taking water from the River Stour
The Committee on Climate Change previously mapped-out a future which sees a 38% reduction in building sector emissions (compared to 1990’s levels) by 2030, with space-heating accounting for most of this. This envisions 4.6 million heat pumps in operation in the UK by 2030. To date, however, only about 200,000 units have been installed and annual sales are bumping along at about 20,000. To fulfil the Committee’s expectations would require a spectacular 12-fold increase to 315,000 sales every year between now and 2030. It’s easy to criticise such crystal ball gazing as unrealistic, and perhaps that’s why a more recent Climate Change Committee Report (‘Next Steps for UK Heat’, November 2016) has reduced official short-term expectations for heat pump adoption. This states Westminster’s desire to see 200,000 heat pumps installed
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between 2015 and 2020. Even this will mean installing about 37,500 units annually from 2017 to 2020 inclusive, an increase in volumes of about 50% at a time when sales remain stubbornly flat. How can the heat pump industry possibly achieve this short-term goal, and how do we begin to help government move towards its boldly ambitious longterm objectives?
Reality check
To answer that, we should first run a reality check by acknowledging the immovable obstacles that lie in the path to heat pump sales. Let’s remember that retrofitting heat pumps in older buildings is rarely worthwhile, because the building fabric is too poor and thermal energy performance too low; that air source heat pumps are unsuitable where living space is tight and ground source heat pumps are unfeasible where there’s not much ground around the house; and that heat pumps simply won’t replace significant numbers of gas-fired boilers because their users will stick with what they’ve got for financial reasons. This process of elimination leaves a clear picture of what we really have to deal with . . .
We have to look at making heat pumps more appealing to off-gas homes, whose occupants suffer the greater ongoing expense of fuelling their heating with oil or electricity. As many as 3.6 million dwellings are in these circumstances. One could conclude, because only 15% of heat pumps are registered through MCS (the large proportion of applications, from housing associations etc. buying them without RHI), that not many one-off end-users are currently considering a heat pump. We have to remember that heat pumps can do more than provide the sole source of heat energy. Many Viessmann installations have now demonstrated that heat pumps are also well-suited to hybrid solutions where they are combined with an oil or gas boiler and sometimes also with solar PV. When the heat pump delivers about 80% of the required heat-energy throughout the year and the boiler kicks-in only on occasions of peak demand, carbon emissions and energy costs fall dramatically.
Possible solution
We must also make heat pumps much more appealing to large-volume house builders. These businesses procure about 125,000 to 140,000 heating systems every
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year and are under increasing political pressure to build even greater numbers of homes to keep up with demand. Unfortunately, they currently have no commercial motivation to invest in heat pumps, seeing them only as an added cost. High upfront cost is the greatest challenge of all, of course. The Renewable Heat Incentive, although well-intentioned and welcome, is not enough by itself to overcome this. The RHI takes seven years to pay back, but because a heat pump can cost as much as a whole new kitchen many potential customers need financial help with the purchase. One possible solution could be for the government to make heat pump loans available at an ultra-low interest rate. Another solution could be to pay 50% of the RHI’s total seven-year sum straight away and the remaining 50% over a shorter period such as three-and-a-half years. No doubt other participants in our industry will have other suggestions and the Heat Pump Association would be pleased to hear them. Whatever we finally propose to government, some kind of policy change along these lines is vital if targets for cutting carbon emissions from buildings are to be anything other than a pipe dream.
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HEAT PUMPS WORK BEST
WITH AN EFFICIENT HEATING PARTNER Claire Owen, Managing Director at Jaga Heating Products UK, highlights why investing in heat pump technology is beneficial for building owners, and why it is important that existing heating solutions are upgraded when a retrofit occurs.
H
eat accounts for 45% of UK energy consumption and over 30% of carbon emissions1. Whilst heat pumps are likely to become a standard component in future new builds, the potential that they possess must also be explored in retro�t projects. It is expected that more than 85% of the UK’s existing housing will still be in use in 20502 – low-carbon heating solutions must be embraced. When considering the decarbonisation of the energy supply and the potential that heat pumps o�er, it is essential that building owners understand the importance of combining heat pump technology with a radiator upgrade.
renewable heat that it is estimated that their system can produce. Installing a renewable heating solution such as a heat pump and choosing to upgrade the radiators within a building isn’t a decision which should be taken lightly. It is important that matters such as compatibility, energy e�ciency, design and functionality are carefully considered to ensure that the right choice is made.
Compatibility
Heat pumps: the facts
Despite dwindling governmental support for the investment in renewable heating technologies following the decision to scrap the Zero-Carbon Homes and the Green Deal, it has been estimated that the number of renewable heating technologies deployed will continue to increase. By 2030, it has been predicted that there will be 6.8 million domestic heat pumps alone3 , not to mention biomass boilers and solar powered systems – as more and more building owners join the green revolution. The Renewable Heat Incentive (RHI) has helped to encourage a surge in renewable heating projects. Since its introduction in November 2011, over 15,000 Non-Domestic installations and over 54,000 Domestic installations have received payments4. By entering this scheme, building owners are able to receive quarterly payments for seven years for the amount of clean, green
Heat pumps and their installation can vary – it isn’t a case of one size �ts all. Before a heat pump is installed, it is crucial that the building is properly insulated so that the heat pump can work as designed. Because of the way that heat pumps work, they should only be installed after taking into consideration the comprehensive �tness of the building and its existing distribution network. Failing to take steps to improve the overall e�ciency of a building before installing a heat pump can have damaging consequences. In a report by the Department of Energy and Climate Change (DECC) it revealed that: “Recent reports on in-situ performance of heat pumps installed in the UK show a continued mixed picture of performance, with some heat systems operating at a level such that they are unlikely to be providing signi�cant bill savings to the users and are providing less renewable heat than expected5 .” Their general underperformance is likely to be symptomatic of energy ine�ciency within the building, which must be avoided. The ideal partner for a heat pump is a heating solution which has a low �ow temperature, usually at or below 45˚C. This means that they have traditionally been better suited for use with under�oor heating, rather than standard steel-panel radiators, due to the large surface area
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Building Research Establishment (BRE), have found that an installation with Low-H₂0 radiators consumes up to 16% less energy than steel panel radiators7 – irrespective of the construction method of the building, the climate, and the behaviour of the occupants. As energy bills are set to increase for homeowners and commercially, �tting a Low-H₂0 radiator which is compatible with a heat pump can mean that homeowners are able to save a signi�cant amount per annum on the costs of heating. required for e�ective heat distribution. However, new developments in technology have impacted this. Dynamic Boost E�ect (DBE) is a technology which can aid Low-H₂0 radiators in performing e�ciently at temperatures as low as 35˚C when twinned with heat pumps. A fan-assisted DBE radiator can signi�cantly improve air �ow and boost heat output levels, making it suitable for use with any heat pump technology – be it water, air or ground source – even at the lowest �ow temperatures.
Energy efficiency
It has been reported that UK customers spend in excess of £30 billion each year on energy for heating6 – �nding ways to minimise these bills is a priority for building owners. Around half of homes could reduce this cost through relatively simple and low-cost improvements in
energy e�ciency, such as investing in low-carbon heating technology. Current boiler-based heating technology is very responsive to peak heating demand, and delivers the appropriate levels of comfort for building occupants. For heat pumps to work e�ectively and e�ciently, radiators must be upgraded to meet the demands. The biggest area of improvement is in energy e�ciency. Conventional radiators have a high thermal mass which can make them quite slow to respond. A more responsive, and therefore more e�cient, method is the use of low-mass, Low-H₂0 heat emitters. These have less than 5% of the thermal mass of traditional radiators and can operate with 90% less water running through them – meaning they bu�er less heat and react at least three times faster to �uctuations in temperatures. Several studies including those by the
Design and functionality
Another bene�t to upgrading a traditional radiator in conjunction with the rest of the heat pump system are the di�erences in design, installation options and functionality that modern radiators o�er compared to that of conventional units. No longer do radiators have to be steel, bulky and obtrusive. With the introduction of DBE technology, radiators are now more attractive and take up less room whilst still o�ering powerful, responsive heating, and are able to distribute heat more e�ciently. Today’s market also o�ers spacesaving, modern alternatives to the limited ‘wall-mounted’ option conventional radiators present. Trench and perimeter heating options allow the maximisation of available �oor-space without losing valuable heat output, and are ideal for countering draughts from full height glazing. Alternatively, freestanding radiators o�er stylish, yet powerful, heating where wall space is at a minimum. It is a fact; the number of heat pumps that are being deployed in buildings are continuing to increase, as UK building owners are realising the potential of low-carbon heating. However, whilst building owners understand the e�ciency and economic bene�ts of heat pump technology, it is essential that the necessity to upgrade radiators within the building is not overlooked. 1 Gov.uk Carbon Action 2050 3 Equity 4 Gov.uk 5 DECC, The Renewable Heat Incentive: A reformed and refocused scheme, March 2016, para 5.39 6 Gov.uk 7 Tested by BRE (Building Research Establishment), Technical University of Eindhoven and the Russian Academy of Architecture.
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TO O L S TA L K
GAME-CHANGER! The Javac CC-231 high performance vacuum pump punches well above its weight
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ntroducing the Javac CC-231. At 9CFM it is the largest in the bestselling Javac-CC range of high performance vacuum pumps. Whether you are working on small A/C split systems or large commercial chillers, the CC-231 is the ideal choice for engineers.
Evacuation times are a constant headache for engineers. Dehydration is key and with its high volume displacement the CC-231 dramatically reduces the time spent evacuating systems and pipework. The inlet on the pump has a tri connector �tted which features a 3/8 SAE connection. For best results use with Refco’s 3/8 heavy duty vacuum hose which again helps to reduce those evacuation times. Tipping the scales at 15.5kg the Javac CC231 packs a punch well above its weight!
For more details please contact the Javac sales team sales@javac.co.uk 01642 232880 www.javac.co.uk
The CC-231 shares many of the great features as the other pumps in the range, such as the gas ballast valve to protect against condensation of moisture in the oil chamber, its double stage cartridge allowing for an ultimate vacuum of 12 Micron and its dual voltage 240/110v motor.
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PRODU CTS
The guide to what’s new for The ACR Journal readers, offering vital industry news including the latest products and services to be introduced.
Torin-Sifan unveils next generation of fans
UK-based Torin-Sifan launched its next generation of centrifugal 3-core electronically commutated (EC) motorised impellers and fans at ISH 2017 in Frankfurt. The Revolution 360 range offers a range of EC motorised impellers and fans with bestin-class levels of efficiency together with smooth, silent operation. Available in Torin-Sifan’s standard fan sizes, starting at 133 mm for backward-curved and 120 mm for forward-curved, the Revolution 360 range can also be adapted to offer customised solutions. They are available in two designs, one optimises performance in applications with higher pressures, the other excels where high airflows are required. The forward-curved impeller range is also available with the option of constant volume, helping to ensure installed performance levels are maintained. Designed for continuous operation across a temperature range of -20 ºC to +60 ºC and offering IP54 ingress protection, the range features non-contact, sealed for life bearings, a press-fit mechanical assembly with minimal components and a solder-free precision-wound 3-core stator, using the latest needle-winding technology. www.torin-sifan.com
Aspen launches MAX Hi-Flow best-in-class tank pump
Aspen Pumps has launched the MAX Hi-Flow tank pump, which offers best-in-class performance and build-quality as well as being the safest and quietest tank pump on the market. Making specification simple, the MAX Hi-Flow replaces all Aspen Pumps’ existing tank pumps, the 0.5l, 1l and 2l Hi-Flow, allowing distributors to hold less stock and AC contractors to stock fewer pumps in their vans. Boasting a low profile of only 134mm high, 144mm wide, by 285mm long the MAX Hi-Flow makes installation in shallow ceiling voids simple and so is ideal for use in cassette air conditioning applications. Perfect for buildings where noise is an issue, the MAX Hi-Flow is quieter than any tank pump currently on the market. Featuring market-leading design the pump’s motor and impellor system have been configured to achieve the quietest operating noise level, 44d(A). www.aspenpumps.com
Swegon’s Zeta Rev Heat Pump goes extreme!
Swegon’s new Blue Box Zeta Rev HP XT was designed from the outset to operate at the sort of extreme ambient temperature limits that conventional heat pump units simply wouldn’t be able to cope with, right down to -20°c ambient. With capacities ranging from 40 to 200kW, the Zeta Rev HP XT comes incorporated with the latest injection technology to help it withstand such punishing conditions the Zeta Rev HP XT. The Zeta Rev HP XT also uses the latest generation of Blue Think controls which has an integrated web server allowing easy remote monitoring, BMS integration and sequencing for multiple units. In addition, with optional Smartlink it can seamlessly communicate with Swegon’s popular Gold Air Handling units for further energy savings. Visit
www.swegon.co.uk today.
Johnson Controls tackles counterfeit oils threat
Johnson Controls is responding to concerns about a rise in counterfeit oils being placed on the market by offering a global range of uniquely branded, authentic York lubricants with highest quality standards and specification. Alpesh Trivedi, Product Manager, Johnson Controls IR & HVAC parts in Europe, said: “The problem is that low grade counterfeit oils, often have inferior ingredients and may contain contaminants, such as harmful additives, and generally do not adhere to the tight specification laid down by the original equipment manufacturer. “This can result in chemical breakdown within a chiller, resulting in acid build up which can have devastating consequences for chiller performance Johnson Controls is introducing a global range of uniquely branded and authenticated lubricants, YORK PureOil, which carry a “seal of authenticity”, to reassure contractors and end users. www.johnsoncontrols.com
To advertise your product in the ‘What’s New’ section please contact
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JUNE 2017
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Book your places and celebrate the future of our industry! This popular awards lunch is again being held at The Belfry, near Birmingham on
Thursday 7th December 2017 This not-for-profit event invests in the training companies to enable them to provide the best skills to trainees and apprentices in the Air Conditioning and Refrigeration sector.
www.acrtoty.uk To sponsor, enter or book please contact Juliet Loiselle on 07786 336606 julietl@warnersgroup.co.uk Sponsored by
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Another sold-out FETA lunch… another resounding success, writes David Todd. With more than 600 people at The Brewery in London’s Chiswell Street, it’s easy to understand why there was a waiting list for tickets. Those lucky enough to bag a place enjoyed a memorable afternoon, highlighted by the hugely entertaining recollections and opinions of journalist and broadcaster John Sergeant. Graham Wright welcomed guests for the final time as FETA Chairman and, with the general election looming, encouraged the Government to “proceed with caution and to consult fully with industry before changing any of the previously agreed legislation’’. On Brexit, he said: “At FETA we believe that in the post-EU landscape, trade associations can provide an even more vital line of communication with the rest of Europe on important issues such as energy use regulations and product design.’’ Graham introduced British Refrigeration Association Chairman John Smith, Group Technical Director at Beijer Ref UK and Ireland, as his successor as FETA Chairman. Guest speaker John Sergeant with John Smith (left) and Graham Wright
ENGLAND’S ‘VRIENDLY’
HOPES HIT FOR SIX
Viessmann installers from England and Germany recreated one of the world’s fiercest international football rivalries at Huddersfield Town’s training ground. But any hopes the English installers had of repeating the success of the 1966 World Cup team were dashed as the visitors stormed to an emphatic 6-1 victory. Viessmann is team sheet sponsor at Huddersfield and the ‘Vriendly’ match was organised by area business manager James Carter, who also played. He said: “The match was fought very professionally, albeit with some crunching tackles and a number of noticeable limps the next day! Without meaning to make excuses, the German team benefitted from a stand-out performance from its striker, who plays football at a high level in Germany.’’
COOL PROJECTS CELEBRATES 20th ANNIVERSARY Farnborough-based Cool Projects is celebrating 20 years in the industry and says it has built its success on a commitment to customer satisfaction. The family-owned business was established in 1996 and now works across the country for customers including Boots, The Co-op and Poundland. The firm currently employs 28 staff. Founder and Managing Director Adam Dyne said: “Even though the technology in our industry has advanced hugely, the most significant factor in our success has been delivering maximum customer satisfaction. This was a goal we set ourselves on day one and is just as important, two decades later. Cool Projects unveiled a new logo as part of the anniversary celebrations and recently held a conference followed by a party for staff, engineers and key customers. JUNE 2017
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C H I L L E R C H AT T E R
ADVANCED GOLF DAY RAISES £5,145
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A professional 41 piece socket wrench set from ITE (UK) with a Tweet Andy Harvey of Advanced Engineering presents the cheque to Simon Weston, watched by Barry Lea
Advanced Engineering was joined by Falklands War veteran and author Simon Weston for its annual golf day at Sherfield Oaks Golf Club in Hampshire. Andy Thomas from FSW won the tournament by 44 points, coming out ahead of a field of 60 golfers, while ACR Journal Account Manager James Knight was part of the victorious four-ball team. Now in its 23rd year, the event allows the specialist chemical manufacturer and brands distributor to thank its most valued customers. Barry Lea, Chairman of Advanced Engineering, said: “We are privileged to work with so many good people in our industry – particularly our customers, distributors and suppliers. Days like this allow us to thank them for their support, while also supporting the wider community that we work within” This year’s chosen charity is Changing Faces. Established in 1992, it helps those with visible disfigurements to reach their potential free from prejudice or abuse. Advanced Engineering manufacturer Precision presentedBritish Simon Weston with a cheque for Refrigeration £5,000, as wellis as an helping triathlete Francesca Hall with her aims additional £145 raised on the day by those attending the event. to win a gold medal at the 2024 Olympics, the company announced this week. The 21-year old already represents Team GB and she will Refrigeration be competingSociety’s in Austria30th in the European The Hampshire Annual Golf Middle Distance Championships, by the Tournament takes place at the Old Thornsfollowed Golf & Country Zell-am-See the Netherlands. That Club in Liphook on 20 Ironman July. Theinevent is sold out but there are triathlon covers over 70 miles including 1.9Gatsby km still places available for the evening dinner in the anew and 21 wishing km run. to invite additional guests Ballroomswim and anyone Francesca finished 5th in age group at the ITU should advise the society as soon asher possible. Duathlon World championships at Aviles in Spain. The cost of the 4-course dinner and presentation is said:For further information, please Christina £39.50 per She person. is helping me cover the cost of Taliadoros “Precision at hrsevents@outlook.com. competing in the events – it’s a huge help. Athletes like me just couldn’t afford to take part in these events without support from family, friends and sponsors. My aims are to compete asAir anConditioning elite/pro at The Birmingham Society of Refrigeration and 70.3Golf mileDay distance and, ultimately, to represent stages itsthe annual and Summer Ball at Hawkstone Great Britain aton the Olympics.” Park, near Shrewsbury, Wednesday 21 June. Francesca is no stranger to commercial It costs £55 to join the fun, with a Shotgun four-ball refrigeration and Precision. Her Dad, used competition on the championship course withJeremy, team and be theNon-golfers company’s sales director. individualtoprizes. can choose the dinner-only Shecosts concluded: option, which £25. “Here’s hoping I can repay them by winning few races.” To pre-register orafor more information, email Paul Singh
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For Foraachance chancetotowin winthe theITE ITEsocket socketset, set, all allyou youhave havetotodo doisisshare shareaaphoto photoofofyour yourvan van with withthe theACR ACRJournal Journal(@acrjournal) (@acrjournal)on onTwitter Twitter using usingthe thehashtag hashtag‘#ChillyVan’. ‘#ChillyVan’. Each Eachmonth, month,one onelucky luckywinner winnerwill willget getthe the ITE ITEsocket socketset. set.The TheACR ACRJournal Journalpicks picksthe thewinner winner randomly randomlyfrom fromthe theentries. entries. For workingon onan an Forinternational international readers, we are working alternative newstoto follow. alternative prize prize for you. More news follow. This Thismonth’s month’swinner winnerisisPCH HLAMechanical Services in Services, of Chatham Boldon, Tyne & Wear in UKKent. who Please tweetedsend usa photo your postal so we can get the socket of theirdetails van below. set to you! Get tweeting photos of your van for a chance to win! Get tweeting photoswith of your van for a chance to win! Share it on Twitter us. #ChillyVan Share it on Twitter with us. #ChillyVan We will need to contact winners to obtain a name We needaddress. to contact winners to obtain a name andwill postal and postal address.
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Let us know what you are up to and see your business featured on the Chilly Chatter pages. It could be a charity event, team bonding exercise or just something a bit out of the ordinary you’d like to share. CMYKCMYK / .ai / .ai CMYK / .ai
Please contact David Todd, david.todd@warnersgroup.co.uk, 01778 392094.
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C H ANG I NG FACES
JAN DE WAARD
DEARMAN VP FOR EUROPEAN SALES
Clean cold technology company Dearman has recruited a new Vice President for European Sales. Jan de Waard, who will be based in Brussels, will oversee Dearman’s sales operations and customer relationships across Europe, where the company expects to grow significantly. Jan comes with 33 years of Europewide sales experience and joins from Czech software firm Comprimato. His previous company, Prague-based computer science firm Cognitive Security, was acquired by Cisco. Before that, Jan worked for mobile software companies Ripcode Inc and 24access Solutions. Having developed a zero-emission transport refrigeration unit, which is set to begin commercial deployment in Europe soon Jan will lead customer engagement in target markets including France, Germany and the Benelux countries.
ANDREW PAKES
CHAIR OF NATIONAL ENERGY FOUNDATION
Andrew Pakes has been appointed Chair of the National Energy Foundation following John Walker’s decision to step down earlier this year. Andrew is currently Head of Communications, Organising and External Affairs at the science and engineering trade union, Prospect. John Walker was one of the founders of the charity and becomes its President, while Dame Mary Archer, who has been involved with the Foundation since it was established in 1988, moves from President to Patron. Andrew said: “Energy efficiency is hugely important if the UK is to reduce energy use and meet its carbon targets. The National Energy Foundation has always been at the forefront of championing new innovation and practical solutions to improve energy use in buildings.’’
www.nef.org.uk
www.dearman.co.uk
PAUL WILSON
REGIONAL SALES MANAGER FOR WATERLOO AIR PRODUCTS
Waterloo Air Products has appointed Paul Wilson as Regional Sales Manager for North East England. As owner of H&V Direct for the past 27 years, Paul has extensive knowledge of air movement products. He will work with customers in Northumberland, Tyne & Wear, Cumbria, Durham and Teeside, as well as other key accounts in the North of England, alongside Waterloo’s existing network of agents. Paul said: “Waterloo is a quality company with quality products. The company has invested a lot in the past year in its factory, so I’m really excited to be joining the company as it seeks to deliver an even broader range of air terminal devices to customers across the UK.”
NIGEL HAMMOND
FUJITSU DISTRIBUTION ACCOUNT MANAGER
Fujitsu has strengthened its support to distributors with the appointment of Nigel Hammond as Distribution Account Manager for the south. Nigel will be reporting to Nick Wilks to promote Fujitsu through its distributor network, covering southern England and parts of Wales. Nigel has 14 years’ experience in the refrigeration and air conditioning distribution industry, having previously worked at Climate Center, HRP and Kooltech. He said: “Working for Fujitsu is an opportunity that I am very excited about and I am looking forward to focusing on one manufacturer’s product range, especially as it is such a successful and high-quality brand.”
www.fujitsu-general.co.uk/aircon
www.waterloo.co.uk
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ULTIMATE COMFORT | ULTIMATE EFFICIENCY
Multi V 5 LG’s latest Variable Refrigerant Flow system is equipped with a host of technological advancements. These include ‘Dual Sensing Control’ which monitors both temperature and humidity levels. LG’s own designed and manufactured 5th generation Ultimate Inverter Compressor and Bio-mimetic fans offering Larger System Capacity. New 4 sided coil with ocean black-fin coating, with improved seasonal efficiencies. Making Multi V 5 the ultimate climate control and comfort solution.
www.lg.com/uk/business
This product contains Fluorinated Greenhouse Gases (R410A)
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