HVAC&R Nation October 2016 by AIRAH

THE SKILLS GAP HT UG O

TO YOU

GIVIN

CE 1920

Evaporative condenser safety

HVAC&R pressure-control settings and valves

SIN

FEATURE

Skills WORKSHOP

THE I ND

WHY ARE SKILLED HVAC&R APPRENTICES BECOMING HARDER TO FIND?

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ISSUE 096

HVAC&R Nation is published by the Australian Institute of Refrigeration, Air conditioning and Heating (Inc).

October 2016

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Mind the gap

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Magazine team Editor Boon Mark Souphanh boon@airah.org.au Tel: 03 8623 3011 Contributing writer Sean McGowan

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In another sign that our industry’s skills gap is widening, small and medium contractors in Queensland are finding it increasingly difficult to recruit and retain capable, qualified tradespeople. As Sean McGowan reports, the issue led to a recent forum that found support for licencing and pathway reform.

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The Toolshed

Skills Workshop 15

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HVAC&R controls and valves

8 Global Update industry news from around the world

Disclaimer HVAC&R Nation is an official publication of the Australian Institute of Refrigeration, Air Conditioning and Heating Inc. Statements expressed in HVAC&R Nation do not necessarily reflect the policy or views of AIRAH or its members. No responsibility is accepted by AIRAH, the Editor or HVAC&R Nation’s supply partners for the accuracy of information or for errors or omissions. HVAC&R Nation is distributed without charge to all financial members of AIRAH. The publisher reserves the right to alter or omit any article or advertisement submitted and requires indemnity from advertisers and contributors against damages or liabilities that may arise from material published. No part of this publication may be reproduced, stored in a retrieval system or transmitted in any form or by any means electronic, mechanical, photocopying, recording or otherwise, without permission of the Publisher.

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Pressure’s on! Australian work health and safety (WHS) authorities are warning buyers and owners of evaporative condensers to ensure their pressure equipment is design registered. Non-compliant plant is a risk to life, and could be shut down, with owners facing significant financial penalties. Sean McGowan reports.

Please consider the environment and recycle this magazine if you are not going to keep it.

October 2016 | www.hvacrnation.com.au | HVAC&R Nation | 3

➲ Editorial

LICENCE TO SKILL

Supporters of HVAC&R are a passionate bunch.

We all know how passionate are those who work within the HVAC&R industry. Looking out for their own and working towards the greater good of the industry – these are hallmarks of the current HVAC&R crop. Passion, of course, can sometimes lead to differences in opinion. A recurring theme within the industry is the subject of a national licensing scheme for refrigeration and air conditioning licence holders. And, in recent months, it has gathered momentum. Last month in HVAC&R nation, I talked about the widening skills gap that is plaguing the industry. And now, a strong wave of employer feedback is suggesting there’s a consensus for the establishment of a national licence to help address this issue. Further discussion on this also suggests that the occupational licence should be driven by skill, not refrigerant handling licences. I can imagine a number of you nodding your heads in agreement as you read this. At the same time, there’s going to be a strong contingent rolling their eyes with disagreement. After all, this has always been a divisive issue.

One train of thought regarding licensing has been put forward by Russell Rohde from Energy Skills Queensland. He is of the view that the RAC trade should be recognised as an occupational licence.

install, maintain, repair, and decommission refrigeration and air conditioning plant and components every day. A national licence has always been something the Institute has strived to achieve.

“A frank and honest assessment of what can be achieved by broad industry licensing and regulation is needed before determining if it will improve skills shortages,” says Rhode. “Again, because the industry is so fragmented, it is difficult to pin-point any one thing the industry is calling for.”

A whole-of-industry approach is needed if this is to one day become a reality – and AIRAH is always striving to bring everyone to the table. Whether a resolution materialises remains to be seen. One thing is for sure though – it’ll be one passionate conversation.

You can read more about it in this month’s cover feature on page 10.

Boon Mark Souphanh Editor

For AIRAH, a significant focus has always been the 20,000 VET-trained technicians who design,

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4 | HVAC&R Nation | www.hvacrnation.com.au | October 2016

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October 2016 | www.hvacrnation.com.au | HVAC&R Nation | 5

➲ Toolshed 01

Due to concerns around the potential explosive nature of R-32 and R-1234yf, on start-up the brushless fan runs for 30 seconds to ventilate the unit before starting the compressor.

Active and slim

Active Air Rentals has introduced slim-line chillers to its range.

Other features specific to this model include a low-pressure cut-out designed to stop the unit going into vacuum and drawing air or non-condensables into the unit and/or cylinder, which could otherwise create a potential bomb! The 3m lead keeps the potential ignition source further away.

Available in 140kW and 200kW cooling capacities, the new slim-line chillers are equipped with quick- connect Camlock fittings, enabling hook-up to existing pipework. “We recognised that the biggest hurdle with installing temporary chillers for our clients is their size, and the problems this presents in getting them into a position on site,” says Active Air Rentals director Brad Sweeny. “That’s why we’re excited about our slim-line chillers. With a narrow footprint of just 1200mm wide, they are easy to transport and manoeuvre into position.

The unit also features an override switch to allow it to be used with other refrigerants.

For more information, go to www.skyrefrig.com n

“Not only are the slim-line chillers easier to transport, but they operate much quieter than other chillers of like capacity on the market, making them the perfect solution for all applications, including HVAC maintenance, events, utilities and emergency relief.”

Air Solutions International has become the agent for a new Canadian product known as the Sewage Sharc. The Sewage Sharc is designed to heat domestic hot water, and heat and cool medium to large multi-unit residential developments, aged care residences, hospitals and commercial buildings.

For more information, go to activeair.com.au n

It is intended for use in wide spectrum of applications including district energy systems, and can also be used with geothermal equipment without the need for drilling holes. This removes potential project costs.

Ultra-compact fan tech

The Sharc will be manufactured in Australia under licence.

The PowerLine Ultra produces up to a 30 per cent more air-flow than current models, without generating higher noise levels, according to creators Fantech.

“The thermo-mechanical methods used in the system are efficient, cost effective, scalable and renewable,” says the company. “It also reduces CO2 and GHG emissions and is easy to install. The systems show energy savings in the 20–35 per cent range. When used to reject heat, it can eliminate the use of cooling towers and give equipment efficiencies increases of up to 25 per cent.”

The in-line fan uses an advanced, mixed-flow impeller design with high-performance blade geometry. “The ground-breaking design of our new Powerline Ultra offers continued savings to building occupants through reduced running costs and a quieter environment,” says Fantech’s engineering manager Kerry Dumicich, M.AIRAH. “They also feature a more compact design, so they are easier to transport and install.”

For more information, go to www.airsolutions.com.au n

The compact design of the PowerLine Ultra produces a higher volume of air-flow than existing PowerLine models of the same size. It is available in an AC configuration, or can be installed with an EC motor.

The new sizes – 500, 630 and 800 – were designed with high-performance evaporators and air coolers for the commercial and industrial cooling sectors. They are intended for use in large cold-storage facilities, as well as the refrigerated warehouses and production rooms used in the food processing and food industries. “All of the individual fan components are perfectly matched, enabling them to achieve maximum benefits when it comes to efficiency, output and noise,” says ebm-papst. “The result is an energy-efficient plug-and-play unit with low noise generation that is ready to install.”

Fantech says the Powerline Ultra is suitable for use in a wide range of commercial and industrial buildings such as shopping centres, office buildings, exhibition centres, hotels, health centres, schools and universities.

As the heat exchangers become iced over, fans must frequently work at a higher back pressure. This in turn, reduces the fan’s efficiency, and that of the entire refrigerating plant.

For more information, go to www.fantech.com.au n

However, the new AxiCool series looks to enable efficient cooling despite this. Its integrated diffuser and discharge vane combination is claimed to increase efficiency by over 30 per cent. This allows the air performance to increase by up to 12 per cent while reducing noise by up to 3 dB(A).

Leader of the reclaim game

US HVAC tools company Yellow Jacket has released the first reclaim unit designed specifically for R-32 and R-1234yf, and is also suitable for all class III, IV and V refrigerants. Developed, tested and built in the USA, the XLT2-AP is designed to meet the demands of the European F-Gas code while still having a high efficiency fan-forced condenser. 6 | HVAC&R Nation | www.hvacrnation.com.au | October 2016

All-new AxiCools

Ebm-papst has announced the release of new members of its AxiCool fan range for evaporators.

The EC motor features fully integrated, infinitely variable-speed control, which eliminates the need for external VSDs, current overloads and motor-phase protection. Optional matching sensors are also available, and are designed to monitor the ambient conditions and provide real-time feedback to the fan.

Sewage solution

The efficiency-boosting discharge vane is integrated in all AxiCool variants. All sizes are available in a high-end variant equipped with a fan-housing cover. 05

For more information, go to www.ebmpapst.com.au n

Toolshed 06

With its profiled 3D blade geometry, the Cpro produces up to 5 dB less tonal noise while in use. This means less acoustic insulating material is needed, helping the environment and saving money.

True flue analyser

Testo has unveiled the addition to its flue gas range – the Testo 330i flue gas analyser.

ZAmid in combination with the Cpro impeller geometry allows tip speeds of up to 70 m/s.

Operation and display of the measurement values take place by Bluetooth via the free testo 330i App. “Your smartphone/tablet becomes part of the testo 330i – wireless, convenient, and independent of the measurement location,” says Testo. “This means you always have all relevant values at your fingertips right where you need them. After finishing the measurement, you can insert comments or photos of the plant into your report, and send it to your customer or your office by e mail.”

Just as with a comparable steel impeller, Cpro is designed for operational temperatures from -20°C to above 80°C, without any restrictions.

The impeller is non-corroding and colour-stable. For more information, go to www.ziehl-abegg.com/au/en n

The optional testoFix holder allow the probe to be secured in the flue gas duct at all times.

The Climate Wizard CWP15 is Seeley International’s latest cooling solution, designed with a smaller footprint.

The Testo 330i allows continuous flue gas display while adjusting burner setup. It also comes equipped with long-life sensors with up to six years lifetime, exchangeable by the user.

Seeley says the CWP15 generates more cool air volume than refrigerated systems (1,100 litres/sec of airflow), and saves up to 80 per cent off for cooling when compared to conventional systems performing the same duty.

For more information, go to www.testoaus.com.au n 07

It has no hazardous or expensive refrigerants and delivers air indoors with no moisture added.

Actrol’s latest addition

“The cold air produced by Climate Wizard can be equivalent to that produced by refrigerated systems, with temperatures that approach the ambient dew-point temperature,” says Seeley. “The new model CWP15 has a UV proof polymer structure for a lifetime of protection, and provides flexible installation advantages, to optimise footprint and provide more install options.”

Actrol has announce the expansion of its Castel range to include high-performing liquid line filter driers. Castel filter driers are pressure-rated for R410A, the highest pressure HFC refrigerant currently in use. With a 100 per cent molecular sieve, the filter driers are designed for maximum moisture removal.

The design also allows the CWP15 to be retrofitted to existing refrigerated systems to extend life and gain lower running costs.

The solid core aims to ensure that the driers are more tolerant to impact. The fibreglass filter is rated to 40 micron – this removes any debris that would otherwise harm or block refrigeration components. Castel filter driers are available in flare and solder, and in all common sizes from 1/4” to 7/8”. Liquid line and bi-flow versions are available. They are now available in all Actrol branches.

Climate Wizard is designed, manufactured, and supported in Australia For more information, go to www.climatewizard.com n 08

For more information, go to www.actrol.com.au n

Innovative impeller

Cpro is made using a high-performance composite material called ZAmid, which is designed with unique material properties with bionic insights. 09

“The exceptional quality achieved is the result of a one-shot injection moulding process, so it does not have any welded seams or critical connections,” says the company. “The new shape alone produces higher efficiency, enabling performance which saves up to 15 per cent energy during operation.” ZAmid aims to combine the positive properties of both steel and composite material. As a result, the Cpro weighs 50 per cent less compared to a steel impeller, according to the company.

Dolphin doubles in strength

Dolphin Eveready has launched an updated version of its Dolphin LED Lantern. The new model features new technology, ergonomic design and four powerful LEDs offering 200 lumens of light output, which the company claims is twice as bright compared to the previous model.

Ziehl-Abegg will showcase the Cpro impeller at this month’s Chillventa Exhibition in Germany.

According to Ziehl-Abegg, the development of the high-performance ZAmid composite material made it possible to create the innovative shape of the new Cpro centrifugal fan.

Seeley’s new cooling wiz

“The new Dolphin LED lantern maintains the brand’s core features of being tough, waterproof and floats, and offers a lighting solution when working in areas where lighting is restricted,” says the company. “Aimed to make everyday life easier, the new Dolphin LED lantern design uses high-quality LEDs that deliver a light output of 200 lumens, with a beam distance of 250 metres, as well as a wider beam width. In addition, it offers a runtime of 65 hours. The design features a contoured-shaped base, which allows the torch to stand upright. The Dolphin LED lantern is power 6V battery. For more information, go to www.dolphintorches.com n

DO YOU HAVE A NEW PRODUCT TO GO IN THE TOOLSHED?

Email boon@airah.org.au All submissions received will be considered, though publication cannot be guaranteed.

October 2016 | www.hvacrnation.com.au | HVAC&R Nation | 7

➲ Global Update USA

CHINA

ALL-TIME LOW

GREE’S GOES GREEN

A group of scientists from the University of New Mexico (UNM) have used lasers to achieve the lowest temperature ever recorded for a cooled solid.

China’s largest air conditioning manufacturer Gree will be investing $2 billion (AU$ 2.6 billion) in shares to buy a Chinese company that builds electric buses, lithium batteries, and drivetrain components.

The UNM team, along with collaborators at Los Alamos National Labs, used a technique called optical refrigeration to reach the mark with an all-solid-state cryocooler – 91 kelvin or -182°C. That temperature was previously only able to be reached using liquid nitrogen or helium. Optical refrigeration involves using laser light to chill a special type of crystal, which can then be attached to a device that requires constant and reliable cooling. What sets optical refrigeration apart is the fact that it can achieve low cryogenic temperatures without any moving parts. n

The company says its making the purchase in order to support the Chinese government’s push to clean up the environment and promote greener technologies. “The decision was made with the premier’s work report target to have blue skies, green pastures and clear water,” says Gree’s chairman Dong Mingzhu. About 95 per cent of Gree’s revenue has been driven by air conditioning sales, and the company hopes that by investing in the PEV and hybrid market, it may provide a stronger financial footing. n

BRAZIL

JAPAN

NOT-SO-COOL SCHOOLS A report out of the UK revealed that high temperatures in the workplaces and schools are a major concern for trade union safety representatives. An earlier survey of almost 6,000 teachers, school and college leaders, as well as health and safety representatives, found that 94 per cent of respondents had worked in excessively high temperatures during the summer, with 42 per cent doing so regularly. Trade union representatives provided a large number of examples of where members were exposed to excessive heat. A survey by one union representative found that temperatures averaged 28.64°C, with some temperatures up to 36°C. In total, 76 per cent of the buildings were over recommended standards. n

INDIA

ATHLETES NOT COOL ON AC

OLYMPIC PLANS HEAT UP

AC EFFICIENCY QUESTIONED

Competitors at the recent Olympic Games in Rio were less than impressed with the air conditioning system at the badminton arena.

Officials in Tokyo are setting up monitoring devices around the city to determine the risk of heatstroke during the 2020 Olympic and Paralympic Games.

There has been calls in India for a revision of air conditioning energy consumption standards, after tests found significant inefficiencies at higher ambient temperatures.

The experiment will measure heat and humidity along the planned marathon route and at the new stadium site, as well as the strength of sunlight bouncing off the road and pavements.

A report by the Centre for Science and Environment (CSE), found that a number of AC units can drop nearly 30 per cent when the temperature reaches 40°C. Many of these units were marketed as “high efficiency” models.

Badminton players complained of wind “drifts” caused by strong AC and the humid air entering from open doors of the arena. Drifts can swirl in from the side, above and below, and they have the potential to throw the badminton shuttlecock in unexpected directions. Simply turning off the air conditioning was not a viable option due to the risk of sweat getting on competitors’ rackets, in eyes, and on the playing surface. “The drift made it harder for me,” says world number 45 Raul Must. “One side, it was slow. The other side was faster. So it can be one metre shorter than what you think on the slow side, and one meter longer on the other side.” n

The first monitors were installed near the Imperial Palace gardens, with more to be added next year. Tokyo last hosted the Olympics in 1964, but on that occasion the Games were held in midOctober. One day in July this year saw more than 800 people treated for heatstroke nationwide, with a temperature of 35.4°C recorded in Tokyo. The government says it's considering a number of options to keep people cool, including planting more trees, and installing sprinklers and misting systems. n

8 | HVAC&R Nation | www.hvacrnation.com.au | October 2016

The CSE study shows in the hottest days of Indian summers, when temperatures are in the 40°C to 50°C range, ACs ranked highest in India's classification system can consume 10 per cent to 28 per cent more power than their declared capacity. Energy efficiency further deteriorates when users lower the room temperature artificially to levels below 27°C. n

AIRAH 2017 Industry Directory – closing soon Don’t miss out on listing your company – get in early! Tick one item off your to-do list and organise your listing now for the 2017 Industry Directory, the definitive guide to the HVAC&R industry in Australia.

n Contractors

The AIRAH Industry Directory is published in hard copy and online. Published for the past decade, we invite you to participate in this low-cost, highly visible branding opportunity for your company.

n Mechanical services companies

18,000 copies will be distributed, with more than 9,000 copies direct mailed with the February issue of Ecolibrium magazine. Ecolibrium is the official journal of AIRAH, reaching more HVAC&R decision makers than any other publication. Recipients include:

The 2017 Industry Directory will be available at all AIRAH conferences, seminars, Trade Nights, forums and meetings Australia-wide throughout next year. It will also be distributed free to major industry wholesale outlets nationally.

n Consulting engineers

All advertisers in the print version will have the exclusive option of participating in the online version of the Directory for the year.

n Consultants n Building services engineers

n Project managers n Specifiers n CEOs n Facility managers.

n HVAC&R designers

Don’t delay. Go to: booking.airahindustrydirectory.com.au or contact Glenn or John on (03) 8623 3000 now!

October 2016 | www.hvacrnation.com.au | HVAC&R Nation | 9

➲ Cover feature

MIND THE GAP In another s ign that our industry’s sk and medium ills gap is wid contractors ening, small in Q ueensland a difficult to re re finding it inc cruit and reta reasingly in c a p a As Sean Mc ble, qualified Gowan rep tradespeop orts, the issu le. that found s e le d to a recent forum upport for li cencing and pathway refo rm.

For at least a decade, the HVAC&R industry has talked about a skills gap, or skills shortage. But for one reason or another, it has continued to widen to become not-so- much a gap, but a chasm. In South-East Queensland, a lack of capable and qualified tradespeople is affecting the ability of small and medium-sized RAC contractors to deliver their projects – particularly during peak summer periods. The latest Australian Government Department of Employment report on the state of the air conditioning and refrigeration mechanic labour market in Queensland reinforces this view.

The research shows a state-wide shortage of RAC mechanics, with 45 per cent of all vacancies remaining unfilled four weeks after advertising

The research shows a state-wide shortage of RAC mechanics, with 45 per cent of all vacancies remaining unfilled four weeks after advertising. There are reports of some employers taking over four months to fill vacancies. “On average there were 6.7 applicants per vacancy,” says the report. Perhaps more concerning is that an average of just 4.2 applicants were qualified for these positions. “Half of all employers did not fill their vacancies, and 40 per cent advised that their vacancies attracted no suitable applicants,” the report says. Even recruiters for medium and large-scale projects in Queensland are being forced to draft in experienced engineers and project managers from interstate, with their clients incurring relocation costs. But this is an issue that does not recognise state borders. In New South Wales, Department of Employment reports revealed an average of five applicants per vacancy in the RAC mechanic labour market. An average of 0.7 per vacancy were considered suitable by the employer. It can be up to three years or more before a HVAC&R apprentice becomes a financial asset for the business.

10 | HVAC&R Nation | www.hvacrnation.com.au | October 2016

The Victorian experience is similar, with employers receiving an average of 8.1 applicants per vacancy, of which an average of only 0.9 per vacancy were suitable.

Cover feature As the HVAC&R industry’s skills gap continues to widen, skilled apprentices are becoming harder to find.

“Metropolitan and regional employers both noted that online and newspaper-based recruitment avenues typically attracted low applicant numbers, and as a consequence multiple recruitment attempts, were frequently undertaken,” says the Department of Employment report. “Further to this, approximately a third of the surveyed employers reported that they had only been able to source suitable applicants via word-of-mouth and industry networking methods.” It lends credence to growing concerns that the HVAC&R industry is not only facing a skills gap, but is also suffering from an identity crisis in the broader community.

GRASS ROOTS Add Staff Recruitment specialises in recruitment and apprenticeships in the HVAC&R and electrical industries. It works closely with many HVAC&R contractors in South-East Queensland, as well as regional centres in the west and north of the state. According to managing director Melissa Stanford, at any given time Add Staff generally recruits between five and 10 refrigeration and air conditioning mechanics for its client base of contractors. But recruiting and retaining staff has become a major problem for her clients. “In our experiences engaging with a range of small, medium and large contractors, I would suggest it is most difficult to recruit and retain staff within the small and medium-sized HVAC contractors,” says Stanford. “And we have found this to be especially the case in regard to residential installation and service technicians.” Although some might expect to find a similar skills shortage across a number of other trades,

LOVE THE ONE YOU’RE WITH If you were selling the HVAC&R industry to a school leaver who was considering taking up a trade, what would be your message? Is it the high demand for labour within the sector, job security, generous hourly rates and remuneration packages at all levels or the opportunities for continual professional development? According to Melissa Stanford, managing director of Add Staff Recruitment and Apprenticeships,

Stanford says it is much more challenging to recruit suitably qualified and competent HVAC staff than electricians, for example. “As a comparison, we generally receive between five and 10 resumes for a refrigeration mechanic advertisement, but between 100 and 200 resumes for an electrician,” she says. “And quite often, the RAC applicants are not suitably qualified for the position they are applying.” Likewise, Stanford is surprised by the limited uptake in the employment of apprentices in the RAC industry – at least in Queensland. And she says the industry’s low profile within the broader community may be to blame.

all of these should be key selling points for the industry, as well as the diversity on offer. “I love that this industry is so diverse, and offers a broad spectrum of technical challenges along with long-term development opportunities,” she says. “From large industrial refrigeration plants, cold rooms and processing facilities, to cooling of commercial and data facilities, supermarket refrigeration, construction projects and residential installation – the industry has a lot to offer.”

INDUSTRY CONSULTATION FORUM Established in 2008, Energy Skills Queensland (ESQ) is an industry skills body operating in the energy, rail, telecommunication, and greater electrotechnology sectors of Queensland. It provides industry intelligence, engagement and development programs to support industry, government and the training sector. This includes producing labour market research targeted toward workforce skilling changes driven by industry and technological demand.

“There will always be a challenge with RAC not being one of the traditional trades,” she says.

So, when Add Staff approached ESQ about the problems it was having filling RAC vacancies for its clients, ESQ proposed an Industry Consultation Forum to identify the drivers behind the skills gap.

“Therefore, the industry is not at the forefront of aspiring tradespersons minds when they are deciding on their future. This in turn limits the potential apprentice candidate pool for employers in the sector.”

In preparation for the forum, ESQ’s industry skills adviser Russell Rohde carried out considerable research into what the current and historical state of the RAC trade.

October 2016 | www.hvacrnation.com.au | HVAC&R Nation | 11

➲ Cover feature He found the fragmented manner in which the industry is supported to be a major contributing factor to the ongoing skills shortage.

and medium employers to employ apprentices given it can be up to three years or more before an apprentice becomes a financial asset for the business.

But he also found many parties within the HVAC&R industry who openly appoint the blame towards other trades with a higher level of influence, primarily through union and employer associations support.

And he says the high seasonal fluctuations in RAC business-demand further compound such issues.

“Everyone, I think, will agree on some level that while making the RAC trade more attractive for potential apprentices is important, it is equally necessary to investigate how to make small and medium employers want to pass their trade onto a new worker,” Rohde says. Additionally, Rohde found historical support for a dual-trade pathway in both RAC and electrical qualifications, with pledges for over 100 dual-trade apprentice positions in Queensland. “At the same time however, the very strong polarised views of the electrical industry held by many within the HVAC&R industry became evident.”

It’s why he says appointing training courses as the only method to fill the skills shortage is an easy mistake to make. “It is also easy from a small-to-medium employer’s financial risk-assessment approach to seek only candidates who can demonstrate that they already fit the brands and scope of work performed by a business.”

LICENSING As well as industry employer feedback on the state of the current RAC labour market, the pre-forum survey conducted by ESQ also found strong consensus for the establishment of a national licence to help address the skills gap. “Further discussion on this has suggested that many in the RAC trade desire an occupational licence driven by skill, and not refrigerant handling licences,” says Rohde.

It is much more challenging to recruit suitably qualified and competent HVAC staff than electricians

CHICKEN OR THE EGG? To assist the forum outcomes, ESQ created a survey for industry stakeholders to complete prior to attending. Much of the feedback via the survey pointed to a gap in knowledge and training of the use of natural refrigerants, as well as a lack of fault-finding skills. These results are reflected in research conducted by the Department of Employment, which cites a lack of experience as the main reason for a potential employee being considered unsuitable. A lower than required proficiency in finding, diagnosing and fixing faults, as well as knowledge of specific manufacturers’ units, means many applicants are not considered for vacant positions. But with fault-finding and diagnosis covered in training courses, one has to wonder if it is the training by the registered training organisation (RTO), or apprentice on-the-job training with the employer, that is failing to address this vital skills gap? “It is important to remember that an apprenticeship includes training from both the RTO and from the employer,” says Rohde. “And it is also important for the employer to be able to provide a scope of work broad enough to build fundamental skills to be transportable across all aspects of the trade.” Having owned a small contracting business, Rohde understands the reluctance by some small

This will warm the hearts of many and at the same time dismay others, such is the polarity in views around licensing. While proponents on either side of the debate will argue how this might advantage or disadvantage the HVAC&R industry as a whole, Rohde is of the personal view that the RAC trade should be recognised as an occupational licence. “I do not think it is feasible to approach it in a traditional one-size-fits-all national licence handled and maintained by a single federal body,” he says. “A frank and honest assessment of what can be achieved by broad industry licensing and regulation is needed before determining if it will improve skills shortages. Again, because the industry is so fragmented, it is difficult to pin-point, any one thing the industry is calling for.” The introduction of “cross” or “dual trade” skill recognition may be just as an important driver to reducing the skills gap, with support growing for a dual electrical and RAC licence a possibility. But any dual- trade outcome will not only have to overcome the polarised views in the industry, but also solve potential licensing and industrial relations challenges. And then there is the small matter of just how much training is required before a license is awarded. “A minimal number of respondents stated that any second trade should take another minimum of four years, while others believe that a dual trade could reasonably be less than four years,” says Rohde. He says that in Queensland, any apprentice undertaking a dual trade incorporating an electrician outcome cannot be issued with a licence until the completion of the training contract. “This means that even after four years in a dual electrical and RAC trade, an apprentice cannot apply for the electrical licence while still undertaking training for the RAC outcome.” Such an outcome will therefore require recognition of prior learning, in much the same way current programs assess the skills of foreign workers against Australian trade outcomes.

12 | HVAC&R Nation | www.hvacrnation.com.au | October 2016

In such cases, those who can demonstrate through assessment that they meet the minimum benchmark level of skills directly relating to a particular qualification, work to fill the skills gap via a training plan developed with the assistance of an RTO. A similar program could be established in the development of any dual-trade pathway. “I think most people agree that recognition of prior learning (RPL) and recognition of work skills is an accepted part of undertaking a second trade,” says Rohde.

MOVING FORWARD Having existed for at least a decade, and perhaps longer, the skills gap impacting the HVAC&R industry is far too big an issue to be solved by a single industry forum. Rather, such forums involving industry leaders and training partners can help identify current trends and future demands – and become the first steps to solving the RAC skills gap by openly exploring such divisive issues as licensing and dual trade pathways. “I believe the HVAC&R industry needs to assess the manner in which it is currently fragmented and identify, through industry engagement and as a unified entity, what exactly is the desired outcome or goal of the industry,” says Rohde. To this end, he says there are a couple of things that need to be achieved. “The first is a united workforce that can engage the industry as a whole and represent the industry for what the employees and businesses themselves want. Second is a concise understanding and outline for the formation of an occupational licensing scheme, in whatever form it presents itself, by engaging with the broader HVAC&R industry.” AIRAH is constantly working to help consolidate the different sections of the industry. It continues to be goal that the Institute’s executive manager – external relations and technical services Phil Wilkinson, F.AIRAH, is passionate about. “We work in an amazing industry that is going through an exciting period of change, with lots of opportunity,” Wilkinson says. “We need to work together to create our own future – a future where we can make a good living, we are highly skilled, professional and environmentally effective. A future that sees our industry become one of choice, not one that people accidentally fall into – like I did.” n

JOIN THE CONVERSATION Help to improve the profile of the HVAC&R industry by joining the conversation with AIRAH on LinkedIn. Join the Making HVAC&R Visible group at www.linkedin.com.au/groups/7067055 and have your say in the creation of a strategy, plan and actions to make the air conditioning, refrigeration and heating industry visible.

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October 2016 | www.hvacrnation.com.au | HVAC&R Nation | 13

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14 | HVAC&R Nation | www.hvacrnation.com.au | October 2016 HVAC HP Be Impressed 220X150 NoBleed v1.indd 1

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HVAC&R Skills PRESSURE-CONTROL Workshop SETTINGS AND VALVES HVAC&R

MODULE

PULLOUT

PROUDLY SPONSORED BY

Understanding pressure control and the technology involved is a challenge that faces both apprentices and experienced technicians alike. Pressure-control valves are found in virtually every hydraulic system, and they assist in a variety of functions, from keeping system pressures safely below a desired upper limit to maintaining a set pressure in part of a circuit. In this month’s Skills Workshop, we will delve into low/high pressure-control settings, as well as the pros and cons of reversing and expansion valves.

LOW/HIGH PRESSURE-CONTROL SETTING Setting a pressure control requires you know the minimum and maximum design operating pressures of a system. Yet, this must be aligned to the correct refrigerant used. In a coolroom for example, on a 6K evaporator design, room temp at 2˚C – the 6K evaporator TD will give you a -4˚C saturated evaporator temperature. This means the room needs to be operating -4˚C. With head pressure, you will need to reference the condenser temperature difference chart. In short, should never exceed AS1677 on pressure testing, which states at a 43˚C ambient, you should not exceed 59˚C condensing temperature for air-cooled condensers at normal pressure testing. Setting your head pressure to 59˚C maximum is key, but lower than this is also OK, especially if operating a freezer room. The range of the control is the actual cut in pressure, the differential is the cut out, where range minus differential pressure equals cut-out pressure This too confusing for many, so look at it this way. If you need to cut in below -4˚C SET, set your pressure control range to a pressure before -4˚C SET for the type of refrigerant. Cut-out pressure has been so ignored over the years, especially with coolrooms.

Many set the cut-out close to 0kpa gauge or atmospheric pressure – this is not right. Assuming this is a pump-down arrangement, if you have a gas leak or low capacity, the unit can operate at such a low pressure that any refrigerant in the coil left will likely dehydrate foods in the room, even at partial capacity due to the wide evaporator temperature difference from a loss of refrigerant. It’s best not to exceed the minimum design saturated evaporator temperature. For example, at -4˚C SET, you cut it out at -10 ˚C SET.

REVERSING VALVES

Range pressure (cut in) differential pressure = cut out pressure. Therefore, the best way is to know how to set your cut-out pressure is to take your cut-out pressure from your design cut-in pressure. That leaves the required differential setting. Set the differential to that setting.

1 The pressure drop creates in the suction line and partially de-rates the unit’s total cooling capacity. This is why cooling-only units always seem to have more cooling capacity than the equivalent heat-pump alternative. (However, inverter models can ramp up frequency and compensate depending on the manufacturers limitations.)

Most high-pressure cut-outs have internal differential reset pressures. But please, just do not set a high pressure at 2500kpa as standard etc. For instance, R134a hits 59˚C at 1600Kpa.

Advantages 1 Reversing valves add heat of compression into the indoor unit, which increases the coefficient of performance. 2 In Australia's climate, they are the most effective for heating – for kW of energy in, to kW of refrigeration out. So puts out more heating energy than cooling.

Disadvantages

2 Defrosts are going to occur at 6˚C ambients or lower. Sub-zero climates may require electric heater boosting (not likely in Australia).

As a guide . . .

3 Higher condensing-temperature differences require capacity control. The unit accelerates performance over 19˚C air-on. Most splits terminate capacity at 65˚C condensing temperatures. Airflow is critical.

• Coolrooms should operate to a design SET of -4˚C unless they have been re-engineered for higher humidity.

Ironically, a reversing valve is controlled by a reversing valve – the pilot electrical valve is a mini reversing valve.

• freezer Rooms to -24˚C SET

In countries like Australia, we tend to energise the solenoid on heating. Whereas colder countries energise the solenoid for cooling. This is so we utilise the unit’s majority needs without adding extra wattage for a magnetic coil. Makes sense.

Always check your refrigerant pressure temperature charts.

• air conditioners to 4˚C to 0˚C SET. Head pressures should not exceed 59˚C based on HFC/HCFC refrigerants.

October 2016 | www.hvacrnation.com.au | HVAC&R Nation | 15

➲ HVAC&R Skills Worskhop What’s the difference? Well, 180 degrees of installation. So be careful how you install them after repairs. Never vapour charge a system with a reversing valve from evacuation. If you’re unlucky, the partial gas-pressure changeover will create small gate change and align suction and discharge ports in the valve. This creates unloading and impossible addition of further gas charge. Always liquid charge to near weight. Inverters will ramp up to minimum frequency speeds to allow positive higher pressure changeover of the gateway before changing modes.

Still, the market has forced hydrocarbon refrigerants, linear compressors, and inverter drive in an effort to reduce power consumption and refrigerant weight. Design has changed to reduce air-change loads by using smaller access doors in refrigerators, rather than op ening the main door.

Do domestic fridges still work on much higher superheats, but use less power than before? It all comes down to costs at the end of the day. The costs are based on economies of scale and what regulatory influences we have on the designs. People want more for less, and that is also in line with the current sustainability needs we look for with energy consumption.

Electronic expansion valve

Pipe sensor for discharge line leaving compressor

EEV opening degree will vary to the superheat control in normal operation.

One of the many functions for the sensor here is to set a target discharge pipe temperature (superheat control).

ELECTRONIC VS THERMOSTATIC EXPANSION DEVICES Well, the short answer is that the electronic stepper-type motorised valves win the efficiency dividends, with increased surface area of evaporator used by lower superheats and the ability to work with floating the head pressure much lower. Yet, they demand a logical driver system only as good as the logic embedded into the CPU. They use the pressure enthalpy characteristics of the refrigerant as an operating guide, which seems flawless (0 to 0.5K superheat).

Figure: 1. Electronic stepper valves have very little moving parts and a simple construction. They can bi-flow easily and work with very little port-pressure as long they have subcooled liquid. These have been a major factor in efficiency increases to domestic and commercial air-conditioning systems. They allow better COP/EER, through effecting good flow capacity and lower superheats at varying ambient conditions.

The thermostatic expansion valve can’t react as quickly and requires a larger index of superheat to prevent hunting. It also requires a balanced port arrangement, and sufficient pressure drop to operate correctly. Yet, you can’t ignore the fact that most feel more in control using these valves and being forced to set the ideal standard superheat conditions (4 to 6K superheat). Air conditioning is already at the top of the efficiency chain, with much lower compression ratios and greater mass-flow of refrigerant for the volume used. All because they work at the highest saturated evaporation temperatures. And, mostly all split systems now employ the use of electronic stepper motors to squeeze the performance even more, combined with inverter technology that sees savings in energy input at part-load conditions. This is logical, since from 2004, air conditioning sales in Australia doubled and we need to find more efficiency dividends for power input. Our refrigeration systems tend to only use electronic stepper control in larger systems with less volumetric efficiency. These work to float the head pressure and sometimes use liquid pumps to keep compression ratios much lower. Mostly, we are still using thermostatic expansion valves for nominal control, as most houses don’t have a coolroom or freezer room. Most condensing units are not inverter driven, however, we need ideal temperature differences in cool rooms to keep the humidity correct for stored product. Our domestic market, which in some cases could see more domestic-class fridges in a household than air conditioners, do not use stepper-type expansion. We are still using capillary tube systems with much higher superheats (25 to 30K superheat).

Figure: 2. Expansion valves are generally one of the industry's best-performing valves for both internal and external equalisation types. Stainless laser welding technology and stainless power elements/capillary/bulb have really extended valve life and performance.

16 | HVAC&R Nation | www.hvacrnation.com.au | October 2016

HVAC&R Skills Worskhop Currently we have found new ways to reduce the costs of producing energy both fiscally and environmentally, but have we really found the ways to use less of it? The expansion devices pictured below are different and produce very different efficiencies. They work so very differently but they have one thing in common – they work on superheat. Superheat has a direct impact on power consumption. The air conditioning industry is really a "hands-off" approach so that manufacturers can embed effective control in their systems that constantly self-adjust. They are always trying to reach the ideal EER and COP. Nothing is serviceable, just repairable. Refrigeration allows us to set and tune the devices according to design evaporator K TDs. Why? The air conditioning market is heavily regulated, with minimum energy performance conditions needed on classes of equipment. Maybe that explains the differences

ELECTRONIC EXPANSION VALVES Advantages

PULLOUT

1 Very precise low-superheat control. 2 Can work with less subcooled-liquid pressure at the valve port. 3 Less mechanical restriction and can bi-flow, which is handy for heat-pump air conditioner applications.

Disadvantages 1 Requires a complex driver system to control the valves opening/closing degree. 2 Loses memory on degree position on a power loss, so it requires resetting on every power-up. This is not an issue, just a fact. 3 Needs a power source to operate. It is not self-maintaining like a thermostaticexpansion valve. The driving magnetic motor is called a stepping motor. Actually, if you want to be precise, is it a four-phase linear pulse valve. It does not rotate (open and close) at speed, but by steps. These steps are pulsed and can set a full opening degree back to a full closing degree, in 1500 or even 2000 movements. This is how precise control can be maintained. Effectively, the driving motor pulses a forward/reverse magnetic field to a permanent magnet rotor. The rotor acts on a needle valve, which creates the pressure drop and flow. They typically in air conditioning, use a five or six-wire circuit with four winding taps for north-south polarity forward/reverse. They either use one or two common winding connections. Split-system AC units employ the expansion devices in the outdoor unit and provide a saturated liquid line to the indoor system. While this has been done with capillary tubes

PROUDLY SPONSORED BY

Figure: 3. Electronic expansion valve control panel for an air conditioning unit.

As previously mentioned, in 2004, sales of air conditioning in Australia doubled. The need for energy efficiency grew and the emergence of electronic expansion valves in very small air conditioning splits became forefront to effective design. The good news is that the refrigeration trade has caught up, with evaporators now fitted with linear pulse valves. Now with not as attractive compression ratios and volumetric efficiency as its air-conditioning equivalent, a freezer in a low to medium commercial application now has an advantage to maximise its capacity with low-head and low-load conditions. These are very exciting times for sustainability. n

previously, the electronic expansion valve (EEV) can be more effective at part-load conditions, both indoor and outdoor, and maintain low superheat. Controlling a successive pressure drop from the outdoor unit to the indoor unit by pre-expansion allows for smaller compressors to be used to pump liquid at volume and height/distance. This reduces both cost and power footprint. In the case of multi-split AC units (where you have more than one indoor unit connected to a single outdoor unit), each EEV on the outdoor supplying an indoor unit can attempt to unify the return vapour gas temperature to the compressor, which will assist in capacity control, especially at varying indoor loads.

MORE INFORMATION This month’s Skills Workshop was put together by lecturer Dennis Kenworthy from South Metropolitan TAFE in Western Australia. Passionate about training, Kenworthy has been working in the HVAC&R industry since 1985 and is a key member of TAFE’s refrigeration and air conditioning program.

Most faults with EEV valves come from two typical problems – contaminated systems or particulate blockages. EEV motorised head failure is rare given they are mostly 12Vdc. It usually is supply-based from the driver circuit PCB, inclusive of wiring faults and corrosion of terminations. Indirect failures are the result of logic malfunction or thermistor sensor damage/calibration. The permanent magnet wont fail, you have to really hit a magnet hard to weaken it. However, corrosion does play a major factor to valve failure. The motorised heads rust out when placed in corrosive environments, especially where they are subject to bore water. With that being said, there has not been many problems with EEV units over the years.

Dennis Kenworthy

For more training tips and guides, visit Kenworthy’s website www.whatwoulddennisdo.com

ACKNOWLEDGEMENT In August and September, HVAC&R Nation ran excerpts from the NSW Office of Environment and Heritage’s (OEH) Gas Management and Monitoring guide without proper acknowledgement. The Skills Workshop sponsor for those months did not contribute to the development of the OEH Gas Management and Monitoring guide. The full OEH Gas Management and Monitoring guide can be downloaded at www.environment.nsw.gov.au/business/gas-monitoring-guide.htm

Next month: Preventing refrigerant leaks October 2016 | www.hvacrnation.com.au | HVAC&R Nation | 17

CAPACITY RANGE

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AVAILABLE IN HEAT PUMP, COOLING ONLY AND HEAT RECOVERY - Standard, High COP or Space Saving type available to suit design priority - Refrigerant cooled inverter PCB for greater operational reliability - Variable Refrigerant Temperature “VRT” feature for improved energy efficiency and comfort - Heat Recovery Link technology for precise and efficient capacity control (only applicable to heat recovery series)

*Heat Recovery series available from 22.4kW to 168kW, Space Saving type not available.

Visit commercial.daikin.com.au or call us on 1300 368 300

18 | HVAC&R Nation | www.hvacrnation.com.au | October 2016

Green wedge The UK’s renewable answer is blowing in the wind.

households. At that size, the combined project will be generating roughly the same as a nuclear power plant. The project is scheduled to be up and running by the mid-2020s, but will first need to secure a subsidy contract from the government to guarantee Dong Energy financial support. The contract is reported to be worth billions. “Offshore wind is already on course to meet 10 per cent of the UK’s electricity demand by 2020,” says director of energy to the government’s asset management firm Huub den Rooijen. “Major developments of Hornsea Project Two’s scale will pave the way for its continued growth alongside driving down costs, creating high-value jobs, and supporting the UK’s transition to a low-carbon energy supply.”

GUSTY GREEN GAINS Approval has been given for the second phase of the world’s largest wind farm being built off the coast of northern England. The Hornsea Two project will consist of a whopping 300 wind turbines, generating up to 1.8 gigawatts – enough to power about 1.6 million homes. It will be built adjacent to Dong Energy’s 174-turbine

Hornsea One wind farm, which is slated to be the world’s biggest upon completion in 2020. In all, the 3 gigawatts provided by the two Hornsea farms will be enough to power 2.5 million average

The UK generated 25 per cent of its electricity from renewable resources in 2015, and the government has set targets for 30 per cent by 2020. Much of that is expected to come off the back of offshore wind. Scotland is the nation leading the way in UK. In fact, the country drew all of its electricity from wind on one blustery day in August. The country also closed its last coal-fired power plant in March – the rest of the region has pledged to follow suit and phase out coal by 2025. Amid the promising developments, the UK seems to be set on a promising path towards the adoption of renewables – now it’s time for others to catch wind. n

October 2016 | www.hvacrnation.com.au | HVAC&R Nation | 19

➲ Feature

Buyers and owners of evaporative condensers be warned! Operating pressure equipment that doesn’t comply with Australian recognised standards is risky business.

PRESSURE ON EVAPORATIVE CONDENSERS Australian w ork health a nd safety (W buyers and HS) authoriti owners of e es are warnin v a p o ra g tive conden pressure equ s ers to ensure ipment is de sign registere their is a risk to life d. Non-com , and could p liant plant be shut dow significant fi n, with own nancial pena ers facing lties. Sean M cGowan rep orts. Since the turn of the millennium, Australia has witnessed an exodus of local manufacturing. And in the vacuum, cheaper imported products have entered the Australian market.

Although imported products are not necessarily inferior to those designed and manufactured locally, the reality is that some products may not be built

20 | HVAC&R Nation | www.hvacrnation.com.au | October 2016

to the required standards. This impacts both safety and performance. Evaporative condensers and closed-circuit coolers, commonly found in commercial refrigeration and industrial cooling applications, are of particular concern. The pressure and contents can be dangerous and potentially fatal in the event of an accident. Pressure equipment that does not comply with Australian-recognised standards is a safety risk to building owners, occupants, end users, and the general public. For this reason, Australian work health and safety laws (WHS) are in place to protect the community. Is a late Saturday jam feasible? So, whether made in Australia or overseas – what do equipment specifiers, contractors, and building owners need to know about their evaporative condenser or closed-circuit cooler?

DESIGN REGISTRATION Evaporative condensers and closed-circuit coolers assessed to have a “Hazard Level” of A, B, C or D according to criteria set out in section 2.1 of AS/NZS 4343:2014 Pressure Equipment – Hazard Levels must have a design registration certificate. The certificate is issued by state or territory WHS authorities. A design registration certificate provides assurance that the plant has been designed to a recognised pressure standard. Any pressure equipment without design registration poses a risk to health and safety. According to SafeWork NSW’s director of specialist services Tony Robinson, whenever an immediate risk to health and safety is identified, plant and equipment can be prohibited from operating until it is demonstrated to be safe.

Feature It is also important to check that the design registration number and product model on the certificate is the same as that being purchased.

EXAMPLE NOTICE OF PLANT DESIGN REGISTRATION

“Customers need to be cautious of suppliers who won’t provide an official certificate or Notice of Plant Design Registration for each piece of pressure equipment in a system, including for an evaporative condenser,” says managing director of Colin Mongta Inspection Services (CMIS) Colin Mongta.

The following is an example of a Notice of Plant Design Registration issued by WorkSafe Victoria in relation to an evaporative condenser. Product information has been redacted for privacy purposes.

“In my experience, if a non-certified piece of equipment is supplied and installed, the cost to reverse-engineer to achieve design verification as per AS3920 Clause 2.6 (Pressure equipment – conformity assessment) can exceed 50 per cent of the equipment purchase price. “So, don’t be afraid to ask questions. Does the supplier have design registration for their product, and do they have the documentation to prove it?” Failure to prove design registration of installed evaporative condensers or closed-circuit coolers with a Hazard Level of A, B, C or D may lead to compliance action and financial penalties from the relevant WHS regulator. “Penalties apply should an incident occur that involves a high hazard-level pressure vessel,” says a WorkSafe Victoria spokeswoman. “Additional penalties apply if this registration requirement has not been complied with.” n

WORK, HEALTH AND SAFETY AUTHORITIES For further information, contact the Work, Health and Safety authority responsible for plant safety in your state or territory: New South Wales SafeWork NSW www.safework.nsw.gov.au Victoria WorkSafe Victoria www.worksafe.vic.gov.au “Where it can be demonstrated that the plant is safe and meets a relevant published design standard, then registration may be enforced on the person who supplies or owns the plant,” says Robinson. Design registration certificates are normally provided by the manufacturer or importer of the product prior to it being available to the market. This information should be requested by the purchaser and made available before they enter into a purchase agreement. “Buyers should confirm the design registration number for pressure vessels associated with the plant, plus any other information relevant to the safe operation of the plant during its design life,” Robinson says. Unfortunately, building owners are most at risk of non-complying equipment. Long after a project is completed and money has changed hands, non-complying evaporative condensers and closed-circuit coolers can still be

identified during the required inspections carried out to meet AS/NZS 3788:2006 Pressure Equipment – In-service Inspection. In such instances, the building owner will ultimately be responsible for obtaining design registration. And according to Robinson, the costs of retrospectively obtaining design registration can be high.

PROOF OF DESIGN REGISTRATION

Queensland WorkCover Queensland www.worksafe.qld.gov.au South Australia SafeWork SA www.safework.sa.gov.au Western Australia Department of Commerce – WorkSafe www.commerce.wa.gov.au/worksafe Tasmania WorkSafe Tasmania www.worksafe.tas.gov.au Australian Capital Territory (ACT) WorkSafe ACT www.worksafe.act.gov.au

Equipment that has been design registered will normally have the design registration number stamped on the manufacturer’s nameplate. Proof of design registration should also be made available in the form of a copy of the official certificate or Notice of Plant Design Registration issued by the relevant authority (see photo).

Northern Territory (NT) NT WorkSafe www.worksafe.nt.gov.au

October 2016 | www.hvacrnation.com.au | HVAC&R Nation | 21

➲ Fly Guy

4K GAME-CHANGER The ROG GX800 laptop is designed to be the ultimate hub for the hardcore gamer. It wouldn’t look out of place as a bit of kit in the latest edition of Halo or Starcraft, but the Asus ROG GX800 gaming laptop has more to it than just a sleek, futuristic exterior. Equipped with Windows 10 and an Intel Core i7 6820HK processor on board, the ROG GX800 system makes some big improvements over Asus’ previous gamer offerings. Most notably, the system marks a switch from a single NVIDIA GeForce GTX 980 graphics card, to a pair of GTX 1080 GPUs in an SLI setup. “The ROG GX800 features the latest NVIDIA SLI graphics cards to give you silky-smooth gameplay and detailed gaming environments,” says Asus. “ROG GX800 draws you into vast virtual worlds with the fastest frame-rates imaginable and visuals that are rendered down to the smallest detail.” Paramount to the gaming experience, the 18.4-inch 4K 3,840 x 2,160 display includes NVIDIA 's G-SYNC technology, which aims to eliminate screen tearing by matching the refresh rate of the screen. So yes, Asus says the laptop will give users the ability to game in 4K ultra HD.

However, the feature that will catch the eye of most will be the innovative liquid-cooling dock, which attaches to the back of the main laptop body and emits an attention-grabbing fluorescent glow. Using a “Hydro Overclocking System” to cool the CPU and graphics cards, the dock is designed to help release the heat generated by the twin graphics cards and system’s 660W power supply. The dock works by pumping and circulating coolant around the CPU and the two graphics cards. It then returns to the cooling module, where two radiators help to dissipate heat. The unique

connection between the cooling module and ROG GX800 ensures that the coolant flows smoothly between the two without leaking. For storage, Asus has opted for a RAID0 setup, with four 512 GB PCIe solid-state drives. There will also be two models available with either 32 or 64 GB DDR4 RAM. Gaming purists will be happy to learn the keyboard is also built with mechanical switches, fully equipped with customisable backlighting of course – a staple for most serious gamers. The GX800 is scheduled for launch next month. n

One directory

to rule them all

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Visit AIRAH’s redesigned and revamped Online Industry Directory, a free online guide to HVAC&R companies, products and services, and brands. With more than 280 companies, and more than 400 product and services categories, the new website is now easier to navigate and features additional HVAC&R resources.

Visit www.airahindustrydirectory.com.au 22 | HVAC&R Nation | www.hvacrnation.com.au | October 2016

Consult the cornerstone

Consult the DA manual The Design Application (DA) series of publications produced by AIRAH are best-practice guidelines to assist HVAC&R practitioners with their day-to-day tasks in the design, operation and maintenance of mechanical building services. THE G

THE AUSTRALIAN INSTITUTE OF REFRIGERATION, AIR CONDITIONING AND HEATING

DA01 •

CENTRIFUGAL PUMPS

Compensate for small deviations in alignment between the pump and pipework connection. Compensate for expansion and contraction of the pipework or pump due to temperature changes.

DA02 NOISE CONTROL

Using a flexible pad (neoprene, silicone or similar) between the full contact surface of the pump and the foundation.

•

Using a base isolation system such as rubber pads or inertia base with spring.

Very small in-line pumps (such as in-line canned rotor pumps) can be supported by the system piping but APPLICATION MANUALMany larger pumps need to be independently supported. in-line pumps are configured to make it easy to provide the additional support directly under the pump.

The piping installer should route the piping with flexibility designed into it, using the minimum amount of pipe, fittings, and expansion loops.

MPS

Pipework should be independently supported to ensure that no forces or moments due to pipe weights or thermal expansion will be imposed on the pump. Flexible connectors are never designed to carry loads. Similarly pump flanges and connections are not designed to carry the weight of system pipework and liquids. All pipework and accessories should be supported independently of the pump.

AL P

During the course of physical routing of any piping system, the installer should ensure the provision of high-point vent and low-point drain connections for the filling and draining of the piping system with water (for hydrostatic testing and operation) and for the purging of air entrapped within the system.

9.4.9. Valves

Long coupled type pumps will require realignment on site after installation and after any motor replacement. Install the motor on the base and, using a straight edge, perform THE AUSTRALIAN INSTITUTE OF REFRIGERATION, AIR CONDITIONING AND HEATING a preliminary shaft alignment. Shim the motor feet for the

•

Valves in acid and caustic services should be located below the plant operator’s eye level or in such a manner as to not present a safety hazard.

Note: Levels of piping insulation, required by regulation (NCC), have been increased over historical practice and designers/installers must allow sufficient clearance to accommodate this.

•

The location of valves, with consideration for operating accessibility, should be accomplished in the natural routing of the system from point to point.

9.4.11. Wiring

•

Valves in overhead piping with their spindles in the near horizontal position should be located so that the bottom of the hand wheel is no more than 2m above the floor. Only infrequently operated valves should be located above this elevation.

•

A minimum 100 mm of knuckle clearance should be provided around all valve hand wheels.

•

Space should be provided for the removal of all valve internals.

9.4.10. Insulation Pump isolation

The piping installer should be familiar with the installation and engineering of the thermal insulation materials specified and specifically with the method of fixing appropriate for the type and thickness of insulation. There must be spacing and clearance between the insulation of one pipe and any adjacent pipe and insulation, or other

Base isolation

Figure 9.1: Base mounted pumps

FANS

Valves should be installed with the spindles between the vertically upward and horizontal positions, to prevent the entrainment of air and debris in the valve.

PL IC

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Note: Refer AIRAH DA 27 for further information on the installation of control wiring.

(a)

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THE AUSTRALIAN INSTITUTE OF REFRIGERATION, AIR CONDITIONING AND HEATING

The provision of adequate access to the pump and its accessories for maintenance and service is essential and is a requirement of AS/NZS 3666.1 which is a regulated requirement in Australia through building and health regulations. Large centrifugal pumps are often supplied with access points. For larger pumps, the provision of lifting eyes and overhead lifting beams or davits should be considered to facilitate pump replacement or servicing in a safe manner.

DA15

N MA

Airfl

•••

All pumps and associated electrical equipment should be wired in accordance with AS/NZS 3000. Control and monitoring instrumentation should be wired in accordance with the manufacturer instructions and all relevant regulations.

9.4.12. Access

•••

A PPLI

DA16

AIR FILTERS

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possible interference such as structural steel. The piping installer should also recognise that in some applications insulation may not be required for the prevention of heat transfer but will be needed for personnel protection.

•

THE AUSTRALIAN INSTITUTE OF REFRIGERATION, AIR CONDITIONING AND HEATING

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AIR CONDITIONING LOAD ESTIMATION

APPLICATION MANUAL

Figure 9.2: Supporting pipework independently of pump connections

hammer. The following precautions should be taken during installation:

Improper application and placement of valves in the piping system can be detrimental to system function Valves shouldAND never be installed with the spindle facing THE AUSTRALIAN INSTITUTE OF REFRIGERATION, AIR•CONDITIONING HEATING and can result in malfunction of the valve and in water downwards.

Pump

DA13

APPLICATION MANUAL

9.4.8. Pipework

In all cases the method of isolation should be appropriate for the environmental conditions in service, including temperature, humidity and chemical degradation. Install the pump on the level base and make sure all mounting bolts are centred. Ensure that the pump is level and if not level shim the feet to level the shaft.

•••

AUSTRALIAN INSTITUTE OF REFRIGERATION, AIR CONDITIONING AND HEATING E OTHE F RE FRIG ER AT ION, AIR CO NDIT IONI NG AN D

DA09

HVAC&R AN INTRODUCTION

9.4.7. In-line pumps

Precision grouting is probably the most critical part of the installation. The surface beneath the base plate must be properly prepared for grouting, any concrete laitance (structurally weak layer) must be removed from the concrete and the aggregate exposed. All dirt and dust must be removed from the area prior to grouting. Properly grouting the base plate to the concrete slab lowers the natural frequency of the base plate and reduces resonant vibrations which can damage bearings and seals.

CEN

DA08

DUCT WORK FOR AIR CONDITIONING

Coordination of condensate trays and drains with pump mounts and inertia bases is an important aspect to consider for chilled water pumps.

Pumps should not be mounted directly on to springs as this provides no inertia to reduce vibration of the pumps and will impart all vibration to pipework. If pumps are in a noise critical area such as on a suspended floor or roof above or below an inhabited area then inertia bases should be used.

UG TRIF

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•

DA03

Modern equipment using laser alignment technology should be used where possible, especially for larger units. The advantages of high precision alignment include less noise and vibration, longer equipment life (bearings and drive components) and less energy wastage at the drive. Aligned pumps can be doweled to the base to prevent future misalignment.

9.4.6. Base mounted pumps

•

DA01

CENTRIFUGAL PUMPS

final alignment and align using a laser based system. This should normally be carried out by the pump manufacturer or supplier, and must be completed prior to running the pump.

Isolate the pump from the structural loads of the pipework system.

• •

The pump should be correctly levelled before securing to a stable base. Pumps should be well secured to the base in accordance with the manufacturers installation instructions and so that vibration transmission is minimised. Common installation methods used include:

APPLICATION MANUAL

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THE AUSTRALIAN INSTITUTE OF REFRIGERATION, AIR CONDITIONING AND HEATING

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THE AUSTRALIAN INSTITUTE OF REFRIGERATION, AIR CONDITIONING AND HEATING

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THE AUSTRALIAN INSTITUTE OF REFRIGERATION, AIR CONDITIONING AND HEATING

APPLICATION MANUAL

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HVAC&R

•

THE AUSTRALIAN INSTITUTE OF REFRIGERATION, AIR CONDITIONING AND HEATING

DA20 HUMID TROPICAL AIR CONDITIONING

APPLICATION MANUAL

THE AUSTRALIAN INSTITUTE OF REFRIGERATION, AIR CONDITIONING AND HEATING

DA21 AMMONIA REFRIGERATION

APPLICATION MANUAL

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HVAC&R MAINTENANCE

APPLICATION MANUAL

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•••

MAINT

Maintainab maintenancility of the system e strate and future • Locat gy, ion of and safe • Reliab Contractors le and appro access to the have a respo • Monit priate contro services, ongoing oring, meter nsibili maintenanc l system the future • Certifi ing and s, e requir ty to inform owne recording cation of ements rs of the with regardresponsibilities commission facilities, • Opera of system for the plant to that ting and and ing data maintenanc owners and result maintenanc and opera of • Detai Specific e. • repor s, led maint e inform requiremen tors t on the manuals ation for enance • Recom ts for opera maintenanc • are sched and system mendations ules and responsible ting e effect information the transfer instructions , iveness, of desig and maintenanc on maint for the plans and Designers constructio are required n , enance procedures periodic review to be met related HVAC&R e manageme n is unde maintenancare best positi . of maint regim if the buildi Successful nt. e. The AIRAH r a building 2.3.9 Ten oned enance e philos ng maintenanc rating or contains ophy for to develop the going comm ants accre particular HVAC&R system e mana a buildi design/ Designers Tenants and maint ng or system requiremen star rating ditation maintenanc itment of mana gement relies need have a legal enanc design tool the system to be instru ts or credit on . gers e fundin e inform respo will cted in g and user to maintenanc the onation. s for operaalso responsibili be safe to opera nsibility to ensur the correc to be engagand this shoul e plann education. ting d te and t e that 2.3.5 Sys ing, 2.3.7 Mai either by ty continues efficiency/s ed by the buildibe in lay terms operation of through maintain. This their the origin . Tenants tem com ng mana ustainability ntenan design the const if furthe Correct al desig need The maint ger on r desig mission ruction features commission ce Con Tenant enance proce undertaken n, or modi ners or by subse of the buildithe energy optimum tractor ers maintenanc fit-outs contractor fication quent desig ss system ing of a system . ng system can HVAC&R to the origin e needs of in accor perfo is a succe contract. s. systems impact on system dance with to supply ssful maint rmance and essential for al desig ners Designers fit-out activi may commission performan n, is the THE AUSTRALIAN INSTITUTE OF REFRIGERATION, AIR CONDITIONING AND HEATING INSTITUTE OF REFRIGERATION, AIR CONDITIONING AND HEATING THE AUSTRALIAN OF REFRIGERATION, AIR CONDITIONING AND HEATING need some INSTITUTE the maint system enance THE AUSTRALIAN ties. Rules the ongo have a responsibili program. implementation ce and ing data enance ensure redes The maint plan, the will ing maint that Becau ty form perso any negat or procedures ign as a result enance to inform se the proposals the basis enance overall maintenanc maintenanc nnel comm of need contractor ive impac their building of the ission e respo needs owners and of the futureor life cycle costs clients of ts of tenan to be in place and system should and licens e personnel nsibilities. ing the systemmaintenance and opera to of their t fit-outs responsibili ensure are appro to ensure that performan ed to carry Tenant Commission tors with design also that: appro priate ties systems ce is mitiga on the • Comm out the of system priate. regard to Particularly ing perso have can be base buildi work and ly trained, skilled issioning ted. maintenanc nnel ng system connected to are super procedures carried part I2 on with the provis e. considerable The maint or be separ vised as out appro s. They enanc can • Comm maint priately, for plant and access for energy efficient ions of the BCA ate be comp e contractor developme enance systems regarding issioning lex and from in them Tennant are should responsibilimaintenance, installations and require data is prope • System considered nts in all areas selves. there systems part J8 and advise keep abreast of commission that modi rly record law. Buildi are also maintenancty on the system is now an explic on econo desig cover the ed ficatio ng mic ing data and logge owne designer laws as n data, it ed by the advantage. n can be any tenan for adequ e regime for complies well as to deter legislated BCA and made to r when it is • Any the ate acces with system d, non-compl building make the t/owner contractuaother laws, do the plant Contractors maintenanc s to that system plant and mine the not recog to building iance is may also l arrang to desig repor Tenan of I2, there e to be perfo plant to allow repor nise owne ement but Specific n have ting ts and ted and r respo rmed the requir generally addressed. indicators of ongoing sustaia responsibility imperatives occupiers need nsible for plant with would have been . Even witho required manageme ements for for the ut associated nabili to be inform compliance commission for maint facilitate performan a designed requir a responsibili the provisions . are requir nt and comm with partic ty or performan formal enanc ing, comm ed ty to all ce. issioning ed perfo Modern ce ular system for maint reasonable requee and should be of the issioning under a ed to be met if rmance ensure that maintenanc enance. s. Green Star the buildi documentation maintains and the sts for acces encouraged Specific e is a partn HVAC&R maint ng const requiremen that accreditatio to s to HVAC ership system knowledge enance contr ruction manuals ts for opera n regim &R plant star rating requiremen is and loop, regard actor needsof stakeholders 2.3.10 e. The AIRAH ting system information the transfer tool also to ensur manageme ts for comm ing HVAC maintainers Occupi of desig and maintenanc contains must issioning n relate under a nt. er Occupants e and opera &R services, e that the and comm particular d HVAC building be met if the buildi between The maint tors is facilit &R a design issioning rating or the system need to unde Periodic enance ated. and accreditationg constructio rstand the recommissio contr • Inspe administrati constructio n is system on system and the influe n regim ction, testin actors’ role can n is also requir ning of a system nce that correct operation e. The BCA performan but their ve matters suchdocument and includ perfo their • g ed and of e: or Repair and ce. is rmance behaviour does not need is monitoring as maint Well inform (refer to for optimum long parts of a required implic replacemen contain can have enance , Clause 6.2). • Comp to be maint it in order term system manu t, to poten ed occupants liance activi ained and to know what als tial probl can alert 2.3.6 Bui • Purch ties and plant is when. future maintenanc records, ase and or furthe ems and also lding/Fa 2.3.4 HVA e mana installation identi r system The buildi • Purch gers cility man improveme fy opportunit of C&R Sys ase and Occupiers Regular manager ng manager, facilit ies for installation plant, nts. • Contr agers tem con inspe of spare knowledgeform part of the ol of onsite installation ctions shoul primary has a significant y manager or tractors s and consu role of the d be made • Energ stores and maintenanc maintenanc maintenanc loop between communications representa by HVAC&R system mables, and its y mana manager durin spares, e e system systems e. gement tives to is to ensur responsibili • Water contractors g system operation and are funct and repor ensure: • Adeq manageme ioning optim e that the ty. A and or their ting, Managers, uate and building • Super nt and repor ally. safe acces as well • Origin vision and as drivin s to plant • provid al specifi assessment ting, • Cost g the maint is provid cation for e the link complied control, s, Regulators: enance ed, betw materials building with, proce • Comp occupiers, een system Building • Equip and equip laint respo maintainers ss, also: • need ment instal ment is & OHS nse and to respo Owners and lation requir • As instal trouble Manufacturers nd to • ensur ements led drawi shooting. 2.3.8 Mai e the buildi complaints quick Designers are comp • Opera ngs suppl ly and efficie ng occup • often lied with, Installers ting and ied are ntenan ants are accurate, provid maintenanc ntly, • Comm ce satisfied, and contr e a super visory ••• service e manu ission actors, als are comp role for Occupiers appropriate ing procedures person It is essen • maint maintenanc 14 lete, tial are carrie ly, nel and ain docum • The e staff appropriate that maintenanc d out Tenants Manage entati operating installed e servic trained, APPLICATION APPLICATION APPLICATION MANUAL system MANUAL and maint on such as the undertaken lyMANUAL Operatorsrs Maintainers e • moni meets the enance asset regist . They needskilled and super personnel be tor, meter Auditor system manuals, design er and vised a good shoul , record intent. • comm Surveyorss understand for the work and repor the contro d operate and unicate t system ing l system in maintenanc • resolv performan Figure logic being particular fully of how each e issues e acces 2.4 HVAC& understand ce, Maintenanc applied s issues , R system , to the system knowledge and licenc e personnel . require loops a range on HVAC es to carry out of certifi the &R cations handling, systems partic required maint and electr boiler work, waterularly in respect enance work to refrig ical work. treatment, hydraulic erant Inadequate services maintenanc in unsat e of isfacto unexpected ry operation, mechanical plant higher costs will result breakdown and unne s. cessary

AMMONIA REFRIGERATION

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INDOOR AIR QUALITY

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THE AUSTRALIAN INSTITUTE OF REFRIGERATION, AIR CONDITIONING AND HEATING

DA27 BUILDING COMMISSIONING

APPLICATION MANUAL

2.4 Im plicat of inade ions mainten quate ance

••• 15

AIRAH technical publications Purchase online at www.airah.org.au

October 2016 | www.hvacrnation.com.au | HVAC&R Nation | 23

➲ Around the nation 3

FAIRWAYS AND FAIR PLAY

Fujitsu General recently held its 16th President’s Cup golf tournament in Noosa, Queensland. The annual event attracts delegates from Fujitsu’s retail, dealer, and commercial divisions, as well consultant partners across the country. Fujitsu General Limited president Etsuro Saito also flew in for the special occasion. “The popular Fujitsu General President’s Cup golf tournament is the perfect environment for friendly competition and strengthening our relationships with our valued partners along with our special guests,” says deputy managing director Philip Perham. There were also a number of special guests in attendance, including ambassador and former Australian test cricket captain Mark “Tubby” Taylor, and South Sydney NRL captain Sam Burgess. The winners of the President’s Cup were both from The Good Guys – Nick Nikas from Caringbah, NSW, and Streton Stojiljkovic from Erina, NSW.

Victorian Premier Daniel Andrews and Finance Minister Robin Scott made the announcement, stating that the program will inject $33 million into energy efficiency initiatives to upgrade heating and cooling systems, as well as install solar and LED lighting. The main projects will focus on an overhaul of heating systems and lighting to make hospitals more comfortable for patients. Proposed sites include Frankston Hospital, Rosebud Hospital, and the Mornington Centre. The Victorian government says the program will save $2 billion in energy and maintenance costs, and lower overall greenhouse gas emissions – a 25 per cent cut in emissions has been targeted. The program has the potential to create hundreds of skilled jobs in trades, engineering and energy efficiency products and services. There are also plans to upgrade 200 schools, as well as Gordon TAFE. n

Fujitsu General is an AIRAH company member. n

VICTORIA RE-ADOPTS GREEN APPROACH

Having been previously abolished, the Victorian government has reintroduced the Greener Government Buildings Program (GGB).

SAMSUNG REWARDING DEALERS

Samsung Air Solutions is introducing rewards opportunities to its dealers and contractors for selling eligible ducted split systems. By registering and lodging a successful claim, the applicant will be credited with “coolpoints”. The points can be used to redeem thousands of rewards, ranging from the latest Samsung products, flights, gift vouchers, merchandise, and more.

24 | HVAC&R Nation | www.hvacrnation.com.au | October 2016

The Coolpoints program will continue until February 2018 unless extended. For more information, go to see www.coolpoints.com.au n

DINNER WITH THE PREZ

AIRAH Tasmanian division committee and president Chris Fontana, M.AIRAH recently hosted the annual Tasmania President’s Dinner at Hadley’s Orient Hotel in Hobart. The night provided all 24 attendees with a chance to network and discuss the Tasmanian HVAC&R landscape in a casual setting. Aside from the three-course meal and drinks, attendees were also treated to a presentation from AIRAH president Ania Hampton, M.AIRAH, who provided an update on the Institute’s activities around the country and goals for the future. AIRAH thanks Major Air and Daikin for sponsoring the 2016 Tasmania President’s Dinner. n

ACTRON AIR ANNOUNCEMENT

Over the last year, ActronAir has been preparing for the implementation of a new ERP system (Microsoft Dynamics AX2012) to enable the business to both expand and provide better information and services to all stakeholders.

Around the nation 6

9 7

The company will go live with this new system early this month. “We strongly urge customers to bring forward any urgent deliveries prior to these dates,” says head of sales and marketing Jamie Mair, M.AIRAH. “We will take a number of actions to limit the disruption for exceptional circumstances during this transition period. We would appreciate if you could take into consideration when placing orders around this period, that there could be some delay.” For more information, go to www.actronair.com.au n

ALLAN’S GENTLEMAN’S RIDE

Last month Allan Heckenberg, Affil.AIRAH, donned his finest attire and joined men and women across the globe in the 2016 Distinguished Gentleman’s Ride to find a cure for Prostate Cancer and to help men’s mental health. “Over 1,300 men a day die of prostate cancer worldwide, and it’s time for that to end,” says Heckenberg, who is business manager for Airepure Australia. “Each of us are touched by cancer: friends, family, co-workers are hurt by this disease. The Distinguished Gentleman’s Ride is the bestdressed way to fight prostate cancer and help improve men’s mental health.”

STRONG BREEZE

Cool Breeze Rentals (CBR) is on the move in Victoria and Queensland following strong growth. The Victorian head office has moved to brand new premises in Hallam, having previously been located in nearby Dandenong South. The new Hallam head office includes 1800m² of warehousing to cater for the annual summer period and major events. The company has also moved its Queensland administration offices and warehouse from Slacks Creek to a larger 1000m² premises at nearby Meadowbrook. These relocations coincide with the company’s nationwide expansion. “Following tremendous growth over the last five to ten years, especially in mechanical services and major events, the increase and demand for equipment has been substantial,” says director Jeff Bernard. “From portable spot coolers, mobile evaporative coolers, mancooler fans, temporary rooftop packaged units, to chillers and air handlers, Cool Breeze Rentals is well placed to meet the demands of the summer season, with plenty more innovations to come.” n

ASSOCIATIONS’ GLOBAL WARNING

Combining motorcycle riding and dapper dressing, the Distinguished Gentleman’s Ride charity began in Melbourne and has spread globally.

With the move towards a phase-down of HFCs, AREMA has warned against using unapproved refrigerants in equipment not specifically designed for their use.

“Personally it combines the fun of classic motorcycles with a wonderful ‘father-daughter’ event,” Heckenberg says. “The event has a lot of humour and hope to it, and that’s the best way to fight cancer.”

The warnings are contained in an open letter signed by eight other associations representing 90 per cent of the world’s air conditioning and refrigeration manufacturers. They include ABRAVA (Brazil), AHRI (USA), CRAA (China), EPEE (Europe), Eurovent (Europe), HRAI (Canada), JRAIA (Japan) and KRAIA (Korea).

Go to www.gentlemansride.com/rider/ allanheckenberg n

The associations point out that equipment manufacturers need to choose refrigerants as part

of overall equipment design and the need to balance performance, energy efficiency, safety, longevity of equipment, ease of use, cost, environmental characteristics, and other attributes. AREMA’s technical and policy advisor Greg Picker says that inappropriate and potentially dangerous retrofits had been actively promoted in Australia, Africa, PNG, Indonesia and other parts of Asia. “There have been accidents in many of these jurisdictions,” says Picker. “We have also seen revitalised attempts to encourage retrofits in Europe, Canada, US and Japan – though to a much less degree than other places.” Some examples include a 2008 incident, where a fireman died and seven were injured in an explosion at a cold store in New Zealand. The officers were unaware that the R22 system had been retrofitted with a flammable hydrocarbon refrigerant. In 2010, also in New Zealand, an engineer received burns to his face and hands when working on a cold store evaporator that had similarly been retrofitted with a hydrocarbon. n

HEATER BLAMED FOR HOUSE FIRE

ACT fire crews extinguished a house fire in Braddon that caused an estimated $350,000 dollars of damage. Residents of a Braddon home had a lucky escape after a gas heater "exploded". Neither of the two occupants were hurt. Initial investigations suggest an electrical fault in a bedroom heater started the fire. Rural Fire Service chief officer Joe Murphy says firefighters put out the blaze shortly after arriving. "The owner woke up to a heater alight. [It was] actually burning improperly inside the house," says Murphy. "They self-evacuated, which is fantastic, then while they were outside, the heater — the term used was 'exploded'. It probably released some gas and then ignited, but caused some significant damage to the back-end of the house.” n

October 2016 | www.hvacrnation.com.au | HVAC&R Nation | 25

➲ AIRAH News

FUTURE TALK One of AIRAH’s marquee events, The Future of HVAC 2016 Conference showcased a stellar line-up of speakers and provided clarity on 2020 and beyond.

Over 140 delegates and speakers attended the Future of HVAC 2016 Conference. AIRAH CEO Tony Gleeson, M.AIRAH

“Now into its fourth incarnation, The Future of HVAC continues to grow and improve every year. 2016 was not different and will go down as the best to date,” says Gleeson. “The amount of technical information presented was second to none. On top of this, all the speakers delivered their presentations in a lively manner, which kept everyone in attendance intrigued. The program addressed issues of critical importance to all HVAC&R industry professionals – everything from climate change to the latest in cloud technology.” Now established as an annual gathering place for the industry’s great minds and trendsetters, The Future of HVAC 2016 Conference highlighted the industry’s shift towards a zero-energy future and more intuitive, leading-edge design practices. Held last month in Brisbane at QUT’s RoomThreeSixty, the fourth iteration of the conference attracted a record 145 delegates from all over Australia.

Supported by an outstanding program of speakers covering a broad swathe of topics, the two-day event gave delegates an insight into the industry’s future, the challenges faced, and latest technology shaping HVAC&R. AIRAH CEO Tony Gleeson, M.AIRAH, says the conference is an important part of AIRAH’s commitment to shape and promote an efficient, productive and resilient industry into the future.

All the presentations provided delegates with plenty of food for thought, and a clearer understanding of where the industry is headed going forward. AIRAH would like to thank gold sponsor Actron Air; silver sponsor Innotech; and bronze sponsors A.G. Coombs and Fantech for their support. The Future of HVAC 2017 Conference is scheduled to be held in Sydney. n

THE MSOs OF AIRAH AIRAH’s membership services officers gathered in Melbourne recently. They are at the frontline of contact with AIRAH members. If you attend a local division event you will very likely meet one, and if you neglect to pay your AIRAH member fees, you will definitely hear from them. They are AIRAH’s member services officers, or MSOs. The AIRAH MSOs – Alison Mattes from WA, Judy Armstrong (Vic/Tas/SA), Melanie Sibraa (NSW/ACT), and Liisa Hill (Qld) gathered together in Melbourne recently to talk strategy and process, and to workshop how things can be done better. AIRAH’s national membership manager Bettina May ran the sessions over two days. The exercise was aimed at streamlining, coordinating and improving processes between the states and AIRAH HQ. It also served as orientation for Liisa and Melanie, who are both new to their roles. n 26 | HVAC&R Nation | www.hvacrnation.com.au | October 2016

From left: Judy Armstrong (SA/Vic/Tas); Liisa Hill (Qld/NT); national membership manager Bettina May; Melanie Sibraa (ACT/NSW); Alison Mattes (WA).

Nominate now

for the HVAC&R industry’s most prestigious awards Denis Joseph Award for Innovative use of Solar Energy in HVAC&R

Product of the Year

Excellence in Sustainability

Future Leader

Student of the Year

Excellence in Innovation

Best HVAC&R Retrofit or Upgrade

Excellence in HVAC&R Research

James Harrison Medal

2016

W.R. Ahern Award

AWARDS

The 2016 AIRAH Awards will be in Sydney on November 10. Nominations are now open. For terms and conditions, go to www.airahawards.org.au — Awards sponsors — Event sponsor Mitsubishi Electric

Dinner sponsor ActronAir

After-dinner speaker sponsor Daikin

Future Leader A.G. Coombs

Excellence in Innovation Standards Australia

Excellence in Sustainability NABERS

October 2016 | www.hvacrnation.com.au | HVAC&R Nation | 27

➲ Smoko with . . .

“Boyley” Name: Gerrard Boyle AK A (M.A.C.T Pty Ltd) ditioning Technologies Pty Ltd Con Air l nica cha Me : any Comp er Occupation: Region manag Primarily HVAC&R industry do you work in? What par t of the HVAC &R nance and refurbishments as a Defence inte and mechanical ser vices ma industry contractor industry? The ut working in the HVAC &R opportunity at What’s the best thing abo and job a e hav ays alw l hnician wil ability to travel. A good tec love a drink or three. e-knit community and often clos a are s gie Frid . turn ry eve ody long! d in the industry? Too blo 30-plus years. How long have you worke for und aro n bee in 1986, so I’ve I started an apprenticeship Makita label, would say any thing with a Favourite tool? My techs . one they made right down to a stringline if do you think you HVAC &R industry, what If you didn’t work in the naire and probably illio still prefer to be a multi-m wo uld be doing? I would r the last 30 years! ove ure cult pub cially adept” in would be if I hadn’t been so “so We all go straight tion of HVAC &R Nation? sec ite our fav r you at’s Wh e amongst ourselves dodgy photos and often jok to the Lighter Side for the would have done o wh finally caught out – or as to who may have been t. something similar in the pas 3 as a collectable. d Falcon XY – GTHO Phase Dream car? A genuine For er Snake when d Mustang GT500 Shelby Sup Par tnered with the 2017 For they get released.

s Heather Locklear start? As a young bloke it wa Dream date? Where do I s it’s a Jessica Alba, would if I could. These day and Elle McPherson – still kins-type. Kate Hudson, or Jennifer Haw , and switch Hahn Super Dry by the gallon Drink of choice? I drink e made “Stones” hav I r, eve How d. I get bloate to Jack Daniels & Dry once al. loc rocks popular again at the (green ginger wine) on the or Bust” album listen to? AC/DC’s “Rock What song did you las t k. – any thing hard roc is get ting a good workout ? “Poor Gerrard!” Favourite quote or saying ldogs). a-Baa” Lamb (Canterbury Bul Sporting hero? Terry “Ba

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AIRAH and industry classifieds Annual members’ lunch – WA

EVENTS

Vic Golf Day Join AIRAH for an enjoyable day on the green at the Kew Golf Club on October 7. Date: Friday, October 7 Time: Registration at 12 noon, with briefing and commencement at 12.30pm Venue: The Kew Golf Club, 1 20 Belford Road, East Kew, Victoria

Bendigo Trade Night AIRAH Trade Nights are a great opportunity to broaden your networks and see the HVAC&R industry's latest innovations. Date: Thursday, October 13 Time: 4.00pm to 7.00pm Venue: All Seasons Hotel, 171/183 McIvor Rd, Bendigo

Qld Golf Day

AIRAH's WA division is proud to present the annual AIRAH WA Members' Lunch. This event will attract over 100 industry representatives, and includes canapés, two-course meal, drinks and networking. Date: Thursday, October 13 Time: 12 noon to 3.00pm Venue: Old Brewery, 173 Mounts Bay Road, Perth

NSW Golf Day Join AIRAH for an enjoyable day on the green at the Ryde-Parramatta Golf Club on October 20. Date: Thursday, October 20 Time: TBA Venue: Ryde/Parramatta Golf Club, West Ryde, NSW

Join AIRAH for an enjoyable day on the green at the Indooroopilly Golf Club on October 27. Date: Thursday, October 27 Time: TBA Venue: Meiers Rd, Indooroopilly, Qld

Adelaide Trade Night AIRAH Trade Nights are a great opportunity to broaden your networks and see the HVAC&R industry's latest innovations. Date: Thursday, October 27 Time: 4.00pm to 7.00pm Venue: Adelaide Entertainment Centre, 98 Port Rd, Hindmarsh, SA

TRAINING

Smoke Control and Fire Dampers – WA Smoke Control and Fire Dampers is a one-day course outlining how AS/NZS 1668.1 applies the principles of smoke control in multi-compartment buildings Date: Tuesday, October 25 Venue: City West Receptions, 45 Plaistowe Mews, Perth Cost: Members $700, non-members $900.

Whether you are looking, selling, trading or tendering – HVAC&R Nation classifieds is the best way to spread the word!

FREE Classified Ads

HVAC&R Nation is offering a free industry classified service! Send in your submissions, text only – no images or logos.

Send your submissions to: boon@airah.org.au or c/o AIRAH, Level 3, 1 Elizabeth St, Melbourne Vic 3000.

Where’s the AIRAH Trade Night?

October 13 Bendigo

VIC

October 27

Adelaide SA

Free entry – Doors open at 4pm • Exhibitors with the latest HVAC&R products and innovations. Drinks, food and more.

➲ The Lighter Side 1 WINNER

3 4

ICY RECEPTION Working on a roof, Michael from Victoria spotted this next door. Both outdoor fan blades were in pieces and unit still ticking away. “I dropped a business card at reception. They said they had the air cons serviced last week. Haven't heard back since,” he says. n

INVENTIVE OR INCOMPETENT? An interesting example of improvisation in this installation. As spotted by John from Victoria. n

TOO CLOSE FOR COMFORT When the concept of clearance distance goes out the window. Glenn from NSW

spotted this scene from a rooftop. He describes the installation as “poor”, but we think he’s being generous. n

WINDOW RATTLERS Mark from WA spotted these two units on a construction site. Customers were complaining of cooling issues – not hard to guess why. n

KITCHEN NIGHTMARES A restaurant in Victoria was having issues with its new freezer tripping the circuit breaker. When Andrew took the cover off the electrical control panel, he found the culprit. “The chef was very quiet afterwards,” says Andrew. “I won’t be eating there anytime soon.” n

HAVE YOU COME ACROSS SOMETHING SCARY, UGLY OR JUST PLAIN FUNNY? If your entry is deemed the monthly winner, a bottle of Jim Beam bourbon 750ml will be on its way to your door. Please include a postal address with your entry. Entrants must be aged 18 years or over. Send submissions to editor Boon Mark Souphanh at boon@airah.org.au. Also, remember to check out more Lighter Side submissions on the AIRAH Facebook page. 30 | HVAC&R Nation | www.hvacrnation.com.au | October 2016

Customers • Exhibitors • Volunteers • Staff

THANK YOU You made our show the best! A special mention to...

CRH AUSTRALIA

October 2016 | www.hvacrnation.com.au | HVAC&R Nation | 31

CHALLENGING REFRIGERANT CHOICE EASY CAPITAL SOLUTION

BITZER BACKS UP PRODUCT DEVELOPMENT WITH AN ARRAY OF TECHNICAL DOCUMENTATION In 2013 the HCFC phase down started in Asia. In 2015 the HFC phase down started in Europe. The EPA proposal to ban HFC’s in certain applications from 2016 in the USA is set. Therefore alternatives for R22 / R404A in new systems are needed. Different solutions are available depending on the application. No single solution for all countries and applications is available. Therefore BITZER offers an extended product range for compressors, systems and heat exchangers for many varying refrigerants. BITZER is constantly developing new, innovative component and system solutions. BITZER maintains development with the following key points; Energy efciency of new solutions, Technical and commercial feasibility. Make contact with your local BITZER ofce to see where BITZER can make your project easier.

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