Feature
New year’s evolution
Skills WORKSHOP
Summer season contingency planning
Where to flare
Installing wall-mounted split systems.
February 2018 / ISSUE 108
PRINT POST APPROVAL NUMBER PP 727272/60606
FREE
STATE-OF-THE-ART ENERGY SAVING TECHNOLOGY
DAIKIN VRV IV SYSTEMS NOW FEATURES VARIABLE REFRIGERANT TEMPERATURE TECHNOLOGY.
EXAMPLE DURING COOLING OPERATIONS 100% Cooling load and capacity
VARIABLE REFRIGERANT TEMPERATURE ‘VRT’ TECHNOLOGY
Capacity changes to match heat load
25% Outdoor Temp.
VRT automatically adjusts refrigerant temperature to individual buildings and climate requirements, further improving annual energy efficiency and maintaining occupant comfort.
30°C
High
VRT
Low
Evaporating temp. / Te(°C)
Outdoor Temp.
35°C
Automatic control to adjust temperature
Without VRT 20°C
25°C
30°C
35°C
Automatic control adjusts evaporating temperature to heat load change
VRT
High
HOW DOES VRT WORK?
Without VRT
Low
In Cooling mode operations, the VRT technology adjusts the evaporation temperature of the system to rise to 16 degrees or fall to 6 degrees as the load on the system changes. For example, in a low load situation, the ability to raise the evaporation temperature to 16 degrees reduces the risk of cold draughts and improves the energy efficiency of the system.
25°C
Cooling capacity changes in relation to heat load
Benefits achieved with VRT: - Reduced energy consumption - Improved occupant comfort - Faster pull down time
20°C
Outdoor Temp.
20°C
25°C
30°C
35°C
Energy efficiency is improved without sacrificing comfort
Note: VRT is only applicable to VRV IV Heat Pump, VRV IV Cooling Only, VRV IV Heat Recovery and VRV IV Water Cooled
Visit commercial.daikin.com.au or call us on 1300 368 300
2 | HVAC&R Nation | www.airah.org.au/nation | February 2018
February 2018 / ISSUE 108
Where to flare 20 HVAC&R Nation is published by the Australian Institute of Refrigeration, Air conditioning and Heating (Inc). AIRAH – National Office James Harrison Centre 3/1 Elizabeth Street, Melbourne VIC 3000, Australia. Tel: 03 8623 3000
Fax: 03 9614 8949
www.airah.org.au/nation
Magazine team Managing Editor Matthew Dillon matt.dillon@airah.org.au Tel: 03 8623 3000
Contributing writer Sean McGowan
The use of low-flammability refrigerants such as R32 in common air conditioning equipment is necessary if the HVAC&R industry is to successfully meet its obligations for the HFC phase-down under the Montreal Protocol. But there has been some confusion as to whether flare joints are allowed for connection indoors. We set the record straight.
Advertising sales HVAC&R Nation regulars
Glenn Douglas glenn.douglas@airah.org.au Ph: 03 8623 3018
John McGrath john.mcgrath@airah.org.au Ph: 03 8623 3007
8
The Toolshed
Skills Workshop 15
See what’s new in the ‘Shed
Summer season contingency planning
12 Global Update Industry news from around the world
ISSN 1834-9522 HVAC&R Nation is printed on paper sourced from well manned forests and other controlled sources.
14
Fuel your enviro cred
19
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.
Cool Tech Gadgets, gizmos and whatnot
22
Safety Corner Access hatches
24 Around the Nation Who’s in the news?
26 Legal Speak Paid on time, paid in full
28 Smoko with . . . Q&A with HVAC&R Nation
30 13,948
Exclusive to February
Green Wedge
Lighter Side The shonkier side of the nation
10
New year’s evolution While you were recovering from the festivities of the night before, a pretty significant moment came along on New Year’s Day – the beginning of Australia’s phase-down of HFCs. Sean McGowan breaks down what it means for you now, and in the future.
PLEASE CONSIDER THE ENVIRONMENT AND RECYCLE THIS MAGAZINE IF YOU ARE NOT GOING TO KEEP IT.
February 2018 | www.airah.org.au/nation | HVAC&R Nation | 3
apac High Efficiency Air Cooled Packaged and Split Ducted Units on R410A 012 to 230kW
4 | HVAC&R Nation | www.airah.org.au/nation | February 2018
For years, apac air conditioning has saved Australians from the melting heat of summer, not to mention all our other climate extremes. Now apac is back, bigger and better than ever. And with backing from Rinnai, Japan’s global leader in Hot Water,
The dawn of a new apac era.
Heating and Cooling, you can rest assured apac will measure up when the heat is on. Featuring next generation efficiency and super reliability, the latest Australian designed and built apac units are not only ready for new
developments, they’re also the perfect replacement for old apac units that are approaching the end of their operating life. So contact apac - before you start melting. Visit apacair.com.au.
February 2018 | www.airah.org.au/nation | HVAC&R Nation | 5
Editorial
DON’T BE TOO PHASED As the clock ticked over to mark the new year, something pretty important happened: Australia began its phase-down of bulk hydrofluorocarbon HFC gas imports.
This became known as the Kigali Amendment (the meeting was in Kigali, Rwanda).
The Amendment will see
The occasion was marked by spectacular fireworks displays all around the country, massive celebrations, and a day off work for everyone.
an 85 per cent phase-down
What’s that, you didn’t notice anything different? You would have been feeling a little worse for wear anyway?
developed countries by 2036.
in Australia and other
The Amendment will see an 85 per cent phase-down in Australia and other developed countries by 2036 – an 80 per cent phase-down by 2045 in most developing countries, including China. Bottom line: not a lot of change in the short term, but you do need to become familiar with the phase-down and what it means. A good place to start is the article on the phase-down that begins on p.10. n
Well, fact is, for most people – in or outside of the HVAC&R community – life will go on pretty much the same. That’s how the phase-down had been designed. It’s a “gently gently” approach. The phase-down that began on January 1 only applies to bulk imports, and not to HFCs in pre-charged equipment such as air conditioners and refrigerators. As you were, in other words. So, what’s this all about anyway, you ask? Why are HFCs in the cross-hairs of the regulatory authorities? When the harmful effects of chlorofluorocarbons (CFCs) on the ozone layer were discovered in
the mid-1980s, synthetic HFCs came to the rescue, providing an effective replacement in different applications, including refrigeration and air conditioning. There was a little problem, however. Eventually it was discovered that while HFCs were better for the ozone layer, they contribute to global warming – in a big way, in fact. In late 2016 Australia and 196 of the other parties to the CFC-eradicating Montreal Protocol agreed to gradually limit their production and use of HFCs.
@AIRAHnews
Matthew Dillon Managing Editor matt@airah.org.au
Want to connect with AIRAH? There are lots of ways to stay up to date with what we’re doing.
AIRAHAU
@AIRAHNews
6 | HVAC&R Nation | www.airah.org.au/nation | February 2018
AIRAHAustralia
@AIRAHConnect
www.airah.org.au
airah@airah.org.au
Reliable HVAC solutions you can rely on Window Units
Hi-Wall Split Systems
Chillers
DC Inverter Ducted Splits
Packaged Rooftop Units Multi Split Systems
Controls
Add-on Cooling Gas Furnaces
Your customers rely on you. You can rely on us. Heatcraft are working with you this summer to supply dependable products and dependable customer service you can rely on. Across our extensive wholesale network you have access to a complete range of Lennox equipment together with all the parts and accessories you need to complete your installation. Lennox combines industry leading product efficiency with smart design to deliver a range of intelligent air conditioning systems that will perform consistently over the lifespan of the unit. For access to parts we support you with a 24/7 access to parts service. Day or night, our team is available should an emergency spare part or replacement item be required.
February 2018 | www.airah.org.au/nation | HVAC&R Nation | 7
Toolshed 01
Changing the game in condensate pumps
04
Introducing two new universal condensate pumps, each capable, Actrol says, of handling anything from a small 1.75kW air conditioner to a massive 35kW unit with four selectable pump speeds.
All aboard Bitzer
Ship classification society DNV GL has certified the Bitzer screw compressors in the OS.A95 series for use in marine refrigeration systems.
“The Refco Combi and Gobi II pumps are full of custom features that are unique to the world market, including their digital water sensor, universal voltage, user-configurable flow and new pump technology,” Actrol says.
“Those responsible can now choose from a large range of certified Bitzer compressors for use in maritime applications,” Bitzer says. “To receive this certification, the specialist for refrigeration compressors had to verify the source and quality of the materials used, amongst other things.
01
“The digital water sensor eliminates the need for floats, ensuring block free operation. Further enhancements also make it the strongest, quietest condensate pump on the market today.
“With their high cooling capacity and the automatic Vi adjustment, they are suitable for a wide range of uses,” Bitzer says of its OS.A95 models.
“This is allowing installing contractors to stock and use a single product that fulfils all their requirements, rather than keeping an array of pumps in van stock.”
“Bitzer has optimised both the rotor profiles and the flow cross-sections, to ensure that OS.A95 models are just as suitable for air conditioning and for medium-temperature applications as they are for the low-temperature refrigeration range, or for heat pump applications.
Available at Actrol, Reece HVAC and Metalflex branches around the nation. Get in store and check them out for yourself. n
02
“One important part of the OS.A95 series is the built-in dual valve, which is used to control the compressor’s internal volume ratio and its cooling capacity over a wide range of applications – both smoothly and efficiently.”
Heez everything you need?
Carel’s control solution for beverage coolers Heez has been recognised as a finalist in the refrigeration category of the 2018 AHR Expo Innovation Awards Competition.
Go to www.bitzer.com.au n 02
05
The International Air Conditioning, Heating, Refrigerating Exposition was slated to take place last month in Chicago. “We are proud to acquire this industry recognition on our way to the AHR Expo, where Heez will be launched for North America,” says Carel’s Alessandro Greggio.
Mitsubishi Heavy Industries Air-Conditioners Australia (MHIAA) has launched the Q-ton, an air-to-water CO₂ heat pump. The WaterMark-certified product provides sanitary hot water outlet temperatures from 60°C to 90°C for commercial applications.
“We are sure that the Heez will bring amazing benefits to our customer base of OEMs and beverage companies in North America,” says Carel USA CEO Martino Manfrin. “The DOE’s strict energy- efficiency requirements can be matched and surpassed by leveraging on Carel’s technology. Heez includes a new generation of DC rotary compressors and Armilla, Carel’s cloud services offering.”
“The Q-ton utilises CO₂, a safe, natural and environmentally responsible refrigerant,” says MHIAA Air to Water (A2W) manager Trent Miller. “The combination of carbon dioxide as highly efficient, with natural accruing properties, enables the Q-ton to be far superior compared to conventional refrigerant heat pumps.”
Go to: www.carel.com n
Mitsubishi Heavy Industries Thermal Systems design team in Japan launched the air-source heat pump to allow for maximum efficiency with a minimal carbon footprint.
04
03
As Reliable as ever
“As an ideal system for meeting the hot water requirements in commercial buildings, Q-ton can be utilised in varying applications, such as hotels, apartment blocks, restaurants, fitness centres, universities, hospitals, care homes and commercial laundries,” MHIAA says.
“RC-WebView 3.8 from Reliable Controls is a browser-based, enterprise solution that meets or exceeds the BACnet Operator Workstation profile (B-OWS), allowing operators and administrators to manage any BACnet, internet-connected building configured with RC-Studio properties,” says Reliable Controls.
“Q-ton delivers outstanding performance. Q-ton supplies hot water from 60°C to 90°C at 100 per cent capacity at an outdoor temperature as low as -7°C, and will continue to produce hot water down to -25°C.”
“RC-WebView’s strength lies in its ability to connect multiple, independent control systems into a single-enterprise website, accessed by a single-sign-on (SSO). New features and improvements include: • After-hours services allows tenants to request and building managers to approve equipment operation outside of regularly scheduled periods. A report feature summarises after-hours activity and associated costs. • Improved object selection interface allows users to quickly scroll through object lists or filter objects on keyword selection. • Enhanced permissions service for Enterprise Schedules allows administrators to restrict access to selected schedules. • Improved and optimised overall performance.
Air-to-water heat pump
Engineered to meet a range of demands including the need for medium to large sanitary hot water generation, low electricity consumption and high environmental responsibility, MHIAA says Q-ton is the most efficient solution compared to boiler-type systems found in most commercial settings. MHIAA says that by utilising the modular configuration availability, up to 16 heat pumps can be connected, providing a 480kW capacity and approximately 100,000 litres of hot water.
“Designed to take full advantage of the latest web technologies and mobile platforms, RC-WebView is the ideal web solution for today’s progressive facility manager.”
“This capacity can be maintained even in low ambient temperatures, with no external heating source required,” MHIAA says. “Used as a direct replacement for boiler systems, Q-ton can produce hot water during the off-peak tariff electricity periods for cost-effectiveness whereby this water is then stored in a tank or tanks to control the water supply for the commercial space as required.”
Go to www.reliablecontrols.com n
Go to www.mhiaa.com.au n
8 | HVAC&R Nation | www.airah.org.au/nation | February 2018
05
Toolshed 06
A Pro move
07
Kenelec Solutions is now the exclusive supplier of TSI equipment in Australia. TSI, of course, is behind the AirPro Instruments range. “AirPro Instruments are revolutionary wireless velocity and pressure measurement solutions that maximise productivity by offering easier measurement access, unmatched accuracy, seamless multi-data reporting, and a user-friendly interface for fast, intuitive operation,” Kenelec Solution says. “They provide superior service through licence and probe management, extended service contracts, and advanced probe replacements that eliminate downtime.
Panasonic says its new air conditioner range offers performance at up to 4.50 EER for cooling and 5.19 COP for heating. “A high external static pressure of 35Pa ensures efficient air discharge, allowing better circulation and longer life,” says the company. “The units are demand-response ready, allowing energy suppliers to remotely lower device energy consumption when the community is experiencing peak electrical loads.” “The LE2 Series offers the compact size, performance and flexibility needed for today’s high-rise residential developments,” says Jack Tey, Panasonic’s product marketing manager, air conditioning. “The slim dimensions, high pressure and long pipe length of the outdoor unit ensures effective operation while still fitting unobtrusively into small spaces.”
06
“Communicate wirelessly in real time with the AirPro mobile app, which can be set up to run on your preferred mobile device. The AP800 and AP500 feature integrated displays, power and save buttons, and a rechargeable lithium-ion battery. In addition, both models provide internal storage for use in long- or shortterm unattended data-logging applications.”
Panasonic says the range blends with interior design, and includes both slim ducted and modern wall split units with a wall-mounted controller. Designed with Australian conditions in mind, the LE2 Series offers an anti-corrosion coating to counteract the effects of mist and salty air in coastal cities.
The AirPro mobile software supports both Android or iOS smart devices, and is available in three levels of performance, enabling you to select the set of features that suits your monitoring needs. Go to www.kenelec.com.au n
Panasonic is just the tonic
07
“The operating range of -10°C to +46°C DB in cooling and -20°C DB in heating meets the climate demands of the Australian market,” Panasonic says. The firm offers a five-year labour and parts warranty. Go to www.panasonic.com.au n
DO YOU HAVE A NEW PRODUCT TO GO IN THE TOOLSHED?
Email matt.dillon@airah.org.au All submissions received will be considered, though publication cannot be guaranteed.
February 2018 | www.airah.org.au/nation | HVAC&R Nation | 9
Feature
NEW YEAR’S EVOLUTION While you w ere recoverin g from the fe before, a pre stivities of th tty significan e night t moment c – the begin ame along o ning of Austr n New Year’ alia’s phase-d s Day breaks down own of HFC s. Sean McG what it mea ns for you n owan ow, and in th e future.
or refrigerators. Under the Montreal Protocol, HFCs contained in imported equipment are accounted for in the country of manufacture. The global HFC phase-down under the Montreal Protocol will lead to global emissions being reduced by 70 billion tonnes CO2e in the period to 2050.
WHAT IT MEANS ON THE GROUND Australia’s bulk HFC gas importers have already been allocated their import quota for 2018–2019, with 90 per cent of the quota allocated to those who imported HFCs and HCFCs between 2009 and 2014.
From January 1, 2018, Australia began to phase down the quantity of hydrofluorocarbon (HFC) bulk gas that can be imported into the country. As well as contributing significantly to Australia’s 2030 greenhouse gas emissions reduction target, the HFC phase-down will force the HVAC&R industry to move to alternative technologies using lower or zero global warming potential (GWP) gases.
There are no mandatory
The remaining 10 per cent is open to all applicants.
changes for owners
On the ground, there are no mandatory changes for owners of existing equipment using HFCs.
of existing equipment
These include low-GWP HFCs such as R32, natural refrigerants, and the new HFOs (hydrofluoroolefins).
using HFCs
Under Australia’s obligations to the Kigali Amendment as part of the Montreal Protocol – as agreed in October 2016 and ratified in October 2017 – the HFC phasedown will see a gradual reduction in the amount of HFCs permitted to be imported into Australia via an annual import quota that will reduce over 18 years.
This timeline mirrors the successful phase-out of HCFCs, which is now in its final phase.
The end-point of the phase-down – 15 per cent of the 8,000 megatonnes CO2e (carbon dioxide equivalent) baseline level – will be reached on January 1, 2036.
The HFC phase-down only applies to bulk imports of HFCs, and will not apply to gas imported in pre-charged equipment such as air conditioners
10 | HVAC&R Nation | www.airah.org.au/nation | February 2018
The overall pace of the phase-down has been designed to match current HFC demand, and end-of-life equipment replacement. Owners of existing equipment using HFCs will not have to replace existing equipment, nor will they have to retrofit existing equipment. HFC gas will continue to be available for maintenance purposes, but when considering equipment replacement owners should consider a number of factors such as the refrigerant type and its long-term availability, energy efficiency and maintenance costs.
Feature HFCs covered in the phase-down HFC-23
HFC-32
HFC-41
HFC-125
HFC-134
HFC-134a
HFC-143
HFC-143a
HFC-152
HFC-152a
HFC-227ea
HFC-236cb
HFC-236ea
HFC-236fa
HFC-245ca
HFC-245fa
HFC-365mfc
HFC-43-10mee
Other refrigerant blends may also be impacted if their constituents include any of the above. Source: Department of the Environment and Energy.
OTHER CHANGES YOU SHOULD KNOW A number of changes to the HCFC low volume import exemption have also been made recently: • From January 1, 2018, the importation of refrigeration and air conditioning (RAC) equipment under the exemption is banned unless importing replacement parts for existing RAC equipment.
New products using alternative technologies are already being developed, and will enter the market throughout the HFC phase-down, which will make such decisions easier. Should alternatives not be introduced in the Australian market at the expected rate, or if demand for bulk HFC outstrips supply, equipment bans may be considered by the Department of the Environment and Energy. Any future equipment bans, if adopted, would only apply to new equipment being imported or manufactured, and not to equipment already installed in Australia.
• From January 1, 2020, the HCFC exemption will cease and import of all pre-charged equipment containing HCFC is banned unless: – Eligible for personal/household goods exemption; or – Importing replacement parts and deemed eligible for an equipment licence. Source: Department of the Environment and Energy.
HFCs gas will continue to be available to technicians for maintenance purposes from their refrigerant supplier. However, technicians should keep up to date with alternative technologies, and seek training (where appropriate) in the use of low-GWP HFCs such as R32, natural refrigerants such as ammonia, carbon dioxide and hydrocarbons, and the new HFOs (hydrofluoroolefins). You should also be aware of the flammability and toxicity of alternative gases before working with them. New or alternative gases may have different chemical properties and can be flammable, toxic, or both. AIRAH’s Flammable Refrigerant Safety Guide provides an excellent starting point, and is available free for download from AIRAH’s website. The Australian Standards for safety and design also provide guidance on how to manage safety and management risks. Technicians should also be aware of their compliance obligations associated with the handling and use of refrigerants, with infringement notices and on-the-spot fines able to be issued by the Department.
Existing holders of handling licences and trading authorisations will be able to renew their licences rather than having to re-apply, as has been the case until now. To renew your licence, you will need to provide any updates since you last applied (for example, any additional training undertaken) and verify that the information you had previously provided is still accurate.
Existing holders of handling licences and trading authorisations will be able to renew their licences rather than having to re-apply
“The aim is to make it quicker and easier for licence holders to renew and maintain their licence,” says the Department. “The changes will reduce the amount of time that you need to spend pulling supporting information together and applying for a licence.” n
Need more information
But the Department says any ban would only be implemented following a review and further consultation with industry.
FOR TECHNICIANS
LICENCE RENEWALS
Ignorance is not a defence.
A STREAMLINED APPROACH
Become familiar with the details of Australia’s HFC phase-down by visiting the Department of the Environment and Energy’s website at:
Measures are also being introduced to streamline the Department’s Ozone Protection and Synthetic Greenhouse Gas Management Program, and reduce the burden on business.
www. environment.gov.au/protection/ ozone/hfc-phase-down
Two key measures to affect refrigeration, air conditioning and fire-protection businesses came into effect on January 1. One is longer licence period, the other affects licence renewals.
LONGER LICENCE PERIODS The duration of all handling licences and trading authorisations has been lengthened to a standard period of three years, except for one-year trainee licences. According to the Department, 2018 will be a transition year during which applicants can choose whether they want a permit for the standard duration or a three-year duration. Three years will then be the new standard from January 1, 2019.
And download AIRAH’s Flammable Refrigerant Safety Guide at www.airah.org.au/technical resources
Fees per year will not change. February 2018 | www.airah.org.au/nation | HVAC&R Nation | 11
Global Update
US
CAPITAL HEAT The new US$60 million headquarters for DC Water in Washington DC, will showcase the future in sustainable design and construction. Located on the banks of the Anacostia River in Southeast Washington DC, the building is constructed over two pump stations that two-thirds of the metro area’s sewer outflow passes through. The building’s unique location over the two operating pump stations provide an uninterruptible, limitless supply of thermal energy. Through the heat exchange system and other energy saving strategies, it will be one of the most energy-efficient buildings in the region. “Constructing a cutting-edge … head office building directly over a pumping station would normally be viewed as improbable,” says project engineer Don Posson. “But by doing so DC Water will be able to repurpose the station’s wastewater to provide sufficient power to heat and cool this large building.” n
FRANCE
RUSSIA
TRÈS BIEN GEOTHERMAL
RUSSIAN TO THE COLD
The green light has been given for a new geothermal district heating system in Dammarie-lès-Lys, a municipality in the southeast of Paris. The system was slated to be put into service at the end of last year, pending final tests.
Researchers from Russia’s Far Eastern Federal University and Japanese counterparts from Hokkaido have cooperated to develop new technologies for building roads and port infrastructure in regions with severe climates, including the Arctic.
The distribution network required major construction works, connecting schools, a fire station, the city hall and a shopping centre. Pumped at 2,000m depth, water is extracted at 71°C. A device for heat exchange feeds the network in a closed circuit. “This pumping station is connected with the gas boiler … and allows us to make a supplement in heating in cases of extreme cold,” says operations manager Jean-Christophe Gabrielli. The goal is to supply 85 per cent of the local heating demand using geothermal energy. n
JAPAN
UK
The university has signed an agreement with the Civil Engineering Research Institute for Cold Region on Japan’s Hokkaido Island. “The Japanese institute's experts have grown interested in our Arctic research and off-shore construction projects,” says Alexander Becker, director of the Far Eastern University’s School of Engineering, located in Vladivostok, in Russia’s south-east. “We already have joint research experience of using ice and snow energy in heating, ventilation and air conditioning systems. n
USA
FUJITSU’S ITALIAN JOB
CHEQUERED FLAG FOR SAINSBURY’S
HOUSEHOLD HYDROCARBONS
Japanese manufacturer Fujitsu and Italian group GI Holding (GIH) have announced a collaboration to develop and sell commercial air conditioners. The deal is described as a comprehensive tie-up of products for overseas markets, including Europe.
UK retailer Sainsbury’s will adopt aerofoil technology for in-store refrigeration across all its cold aisles in all shops. The cooling technology, developed by Aerofoil Energy in collaboration with F1 specialist Williams Advanced Engineering, is expected to increase the energy efficiency of the stores significantly. Aerofoil technology will be used in aisles stocking meat and dairy products, with the aim of curbing energy use equivalent to over 320 million kettles boiling.
The US Environmental Protection Agency (EPA) has cleared the way for hydrocarbon refrigerants to be used in new household refrigerators and freezers.
The companies say they will jointly develop efficient and comfortable air conditioning units by combining technologies in which both of them excel. The plan is to sell the products under the brand names of both companies. Established in 2000, GI Holding produces and distributes a wide range of equipment, including chillers, air-handling units, fan coils, rooftop units and close-control equipment. Brands include CLINT, KTK Klimatechnik, Montair and Novair. n
The fridges will remain at the same temperature to keep food cool and fresh; however, the aisles will be warmer for customers by up to 4°C. The technology is designed to prevent cold air from escaping into the store aisles. It works by making use of aerofoils to steer cold air back into the unit, based on principles from racing car engineering. n
12 | HVAC&R Nation | www.airah.org.au/nation | February 2018
EPA administrator Scott Pruitt has signed the document allowing isobutane, propane and R441A to be used in new household refrigerators, freezers, and combination refrigerators and freezers under the USA’s Significant New Alternatives Policy (SNAP) program. R441A is a blend of the hydrocarbons ethane (R170), isobutane (R600a), propane (R290) and butane (R600). A new standard published earlier this year – UL 60335-2-24 – updated the safety requirements for hydrocarbon fridges in the country, increasing the charge up to 150g, and bringing them in line with international standards. n
8 - 10 May 2018 ICC Sydney, Darling Harbour
R E T S I G RE INE ONL NOW
SOURCE PRODUCT SHARE SOLUTIONS CONNECT @ARBS Visit Australia’s only international HVAC+R & building services trade exhibition featuring the highly anticipated Speaker Series and Industry Awards
February 2018 | www.airah.org.au/nation | HVAC&R Nation | 13
Green Wedge
NO BUTTS: NEW TECH IS STREETS AHEAD Exciting research may have found a use for old cigarette butts – a huge waste problem. An estimated six trillion cigarette filters are produced every year, leading to 1.2 million tonnes of waste globally. Lots of these litter our streets, parks and public places. Research from RMIT University now shows how to reuse cigarettes for a new road material while ridding the environment of a waste problem. “I have been trying for many years to find methods for solving the problem of cigarette butt pollution,” says Dr Abbas Mohajerani, Senior Lecturer at the School of Engineering at RMIT University. Mohajerani and his team are focused on dealing with the problem waste stream of cigarette butts, the toxic chemicals from which can leach into waterways. In Australia alone, about 25 to 30 billion filtered cigarettes are smoked annually. Of these, about seven billion end up as litter.
FROM LITTERING STREETS TO PAVING STREETS As a specialist in recycling cigarettes for building materials, Mohajerani and his team recently presented a new solution for our roads. The material he proposes consists of a mixture of asphalt and cigarette butts. The optimal concentration was found to be 15kg of cigarette butts per m3 of asphalt. Initial tests have shown that this material can not only handle vehicle traffic, but also contribute to reducing the urban heat island effect by lowering thermal conductivity.
14 | HVAC&R Nation | www.airah.org.au/nation | February 2018
In his experiments, Mohajerani and his colleagues encapsulated cigarette butts with bitumen or paraffin wax to prevent leaching, and then mixed this with hot asphalt. The researchers were able to show that the material encapsulated with bitumen not only met the requirements of heavy traffic, but even reduced bulk and increased porosity, lowering thermal conductivity – meaning cooler streets. “Cigarette filters are designed to trap hundreds of toxic chemicals,” Mohajerani says. “And the only ways to control these are either by effective encapsulation for the production of new lightweight aggregates or by incorporation in clay-fire bricks.” In 2015 he gained international recognition for his research, showing how to incorporate cigarette butts in clay-fire bricks. According to the recycling expert, the new road material could, in fact, be used in various applications and lightweight composite products. The findings of his research have been published in the journal Construction and Building Materials. n
SUMMER SEASON Skills CONTINGENCY Workshop PLANNING HVAC&R
MODULE
108
PROUDLY SPONSORED BY
AIRAH
Skills summary n What? An overview of how to assess a site for temporary cooling during planned and unplanned air conditioning shut-downs.
n Who?
PULLOUT
HVAC&R apprentices, teachers, lecturers, facility managers, contractors, installers, mechanics/technicians and maintainers.
CONDENSER AIR DISCHARGE Exhausting warm condenser air is one of the fundamental issues of operating temporary coolers inside your building. Operating outdoor temporary air conditioning equipment is often too difficult due to site restrictions, so there are different products available to combat these associated issues, and even products that offer different exhaust duct sizes depending on your requirements. A common 4.5kW spot cooler produces: • Evaporator (high) 800m3/hr (222L/s) – discharged horizontally out of the front of the cooler. • Condenser 1500m3/hr (417L/s) – discharged vertically out of the top of the cooler.
Effective temporary air conditioning solutions are based on satisfying your occupants and even your equipment’s needs while working with the available resources, restrictions and opportunities. Planned shut-downs and upgrades obviously have the benefit of time for planning but conversely, breakdowns during summer require fast response and smart solutions based on evaluating those resources, restrictions and opportunities. Evaluating your site for the right temporary air conditioning solution is critical to reduce frustration from your clients, save perishable stock, maintain equipment and keep businesses and essential services up and running. This Skills Workshop will identify the core opportunities to capitalise on in order to ensure you get the right solution for your situation.
Ceiling spaces are the most commonly used exhaust opportunity and are accessible by ceiling tiles, man holes and even penetrating plasterboard ceilings. Some common issues with this method are non-ducted return-air systems that draw air from the ceiling space, data rooms with firewalls that trap the hot condenser air in that roof cavity, and sites such as service stations with very low ceiling spaces.
Restrictions and associated issues relating to exhaust ducting and airflow can be solved by using the right cooler that offers the right duct size for your site and its restrictions as shown. Extraction fan/duct combinations allow the extension of condenser exhaust ducts, and the temporary split hose packs allow you to position your exhaust condenser air up to 25m away from the mobile head unit.
Unused internal spaces, stairwells and functioning windows are also commonly used. Windows can on occasion be removed and replaced by board, allowing for duct cuts and the mounting of spigots. On occasion where possible (usually with the removal of windows or door access), you can bring cold air into the building via an external temporary air condition, which will exhaust directly into the atmosphere. Depending on your site, security needs to be assessed for this option.
Factors such as security, ducted and non-ducted return-air systems, data room firewalls, volume of containment and the flow-on into affected areas all need to be considered and taken into account.
EQUIPMENT If you’ve been in the industry for a little while, chances are you’ve heard about or used a “Robbie the Robot”. That’s the colloquial term
• Condenser air temp is approximately 10°C > ambient. A common 4.5kW portable split system produces: • Evaporator (high) 750m3/hr (208L/s) – discharged horizontally out of the front of the cooler. • Condenser 1900m /hr (528L/s) – discharged horizontally out of the remote condenser. 3
• Condenser air temp is approximately 10°C > ambient. As you can see from these specifications, when generating more hot air than cold air in an environment that doesn’t allow for the exhausting of that hot air, managing exhaust air is paramount. Site restrictions are always plentiful, but conversely, there are also opportunities of which you can take advantage.
Portable A/C type
Capacity
Exhaust duct size
• Reverse-cycle spot cooler
4.4kW
150mm
• Air- cooled spot cooler
4.5kW
200mm
• Spot cooler
4.5kW
300mm
• Spot cooler
4.9kW
350mm and 400mm
• Spot cooler
7.3kW
400mm
• Spot cooler
17.5kW
400mm
• 20kW portable indoor packaged unit
20kW
500mm
• Water-cooled split
4.5kW
45mm x 65mm hose pack
• Water-cooled split
7kW
45mm x 65mm hose pack Table one: Matching cooling with sites.
February 2018 | www.airah.org.au/nation | HVAC&R Nation | 15
HVAC&R Skills Workshop assistance for stairs. The indoor portable packaged units can’t negotiate stairs. Air-handling units (that are part of the building air conditioning) can be a great resource for air distribution and increased airflow. If it’s possible to supply enough cooling capacity into a building AHU, you can alleviate the need for multiple portable air conditioning units internally, avoid exhausting several condenser air ducts internally and avoid struggling to get multiple portable air conditioning units into the exact locations in which the air conditioning is required. If your building is located on the ground or first floor with sufficient access and floor space, or has an accessible roof with enough space and weight capacity to take large air conditioning plant, then there’s a chance you can use outdoor temporary cooling equipment. This opens up the opportunity to use high-capacity temporary packaged units or chiller systems.
Two “Robbie the Robot” options.
Temporary packaged units, chillers and AHUs are all available in differing sizes ready to crane or fork, catering for differing size, weight and power needs. Custom hose and duct configurations are all available, depending on your requirements.
SIZING UP YOUR SITE When it’s done by the occupants, sizing up areas such as offices, retail spaces and many more for temporary cooling is often done incorrectly. for a standard two-arm spot cooler, which has been in the industry standard for decades. While temporary coolers have progressed with demand and technology, Robbie now has a complete family, each catering to differing situations. These key products might include temporary splits, spot coolers, portable indoor packaged units, reverse-cycle packaged units, chillers and AHUs.
SITE CONSIDERATIONS AND ACCESSORIES Spot cooler duct arms allow for direction of air and dampers; spot cooler louvre grilles allow for diffusion and are great for sites with limited room and also eliminate accidents and duct arm breakages on high foot traffic sites such as retail stores and reception areas. Note: 150mm supply-air ducts fitted to spot cooler duct arms can be run through ceiling spaces and into the room requiring the air conditioning. This allows the spot cooler to be located in a neighbouring room, saving space, keeping noise to a minimum (an average spot cooler runs at 64dB(A)@1m) and distributing the air exactly where it’s needed from above.
Operational noise levels for portable coolers can vary from 56dB(A)@1m to 69dB(A)@1m, and can sometimes cause problems in small offices or noise-sensitive environments such as call centres, etc. This is where equipment sizing from the selection of spot coolers and/or position of the equipment becomes important. Supply-air ducts on spot coolers also allow cold air to be run under and into raised floors in data rooms, getting the cold air to where it’s needed. This can be assisted (when available) by letting the CRAC units’ fan capacity distribute that cold air.
Temporary coolers are an excellent effective and critical piece of equipment when the number of coolers has been estimated correctly. They produce warm condenser air, draw reasonable amounts of power supply, and take up a small amount of floor space. These factors are fine for each site, but the numbers should and need to be kept to a minimum on every application.
Condensation pumps allow temporary coolers to run 24/7, with no bucket interference. This is critical for sites that require cooling 24/7. The days of technicians having to attend site and empty condensation buckets every eight hours or so are well over. Lift motor rooms, data rooms, comms rooms and telco huts and exchanges all need to be cooled 24/7, making pumps essential. Even some hospitals and healthcare facilities use pumps to avoid the risk of spilt water from traditional condensation bucket water removal. Regular condensation pumps are reasonably quiet in operation at 47dB(A)@1m, and they offer a maximum discharge head of 5.4m. In a common room with a ceiling of 2.4m, you can run up the hose line vertically into the ceiling space and then horizontally for up to 30m and then down to your drainage point. Toilets, kitchens, existing air conditioning drains and windows are all great options for drainage. Stairs, raised floors and ramps also need to be taken into consideration. The variety of temporary cooling equipment available brings with it a range of differing weights and accessibility issues. From the entry into a building, loading bay, internal stairs and even raised floors in data rooms, these need to be known when weighing up what equipment will be best suited to your site. Some equipment is suitable for a one-person lift, but most require
Model
Rather than getting the total floor m2 or the building air conditioning capacity for that area, you should be looking for critical areas that require cooling. Actual work areas, clusters of desks, high- foot-traffic areas, service counters, stock/equipment that needs to be kept cool, reducing room numbers and even moving staff members into adjacent offices or open-plan work areas that can be cooled with fewer units. Spot coolers have coverage approximations to make sizing easy (as shown below). And remember, portables can usually be located exactly where you need them, so the air conditioning capacities required can vary significantly to the capacity allocated to that area from the building air conditioning. Data centres, communications rooms and telco sites are different. With constant heat loads, peak strain times and ideal conditions of around 20–22°C and 40–55%RH, these sites require exact sizing with consideration to mains air conditioning, heat loads and extraction of hot air.
Capacity
Airflow
Coverage (approx.)
Spot cooler
4.4kW
450m3/hr
(125L/s)
27m2
Spot cooler
4.9kW
780m3/hr
(217L/s)
50m2
Spot cooler
7.3kW
980m3/hr
(272L/s)
75m2
16 | HVAC&R Nation | www.airah.org.au/nation | February 2018
Table 2: Spot cooler capacity and coverage.
HVAC&R Skills Workshop
There is a range of options for spot cooling.
PULLOUT
Breaker size
as data room hot aisles, comms rooms and telco exchanges, which can be critical during summer. Please see Table 4.
Air conditioning options
• 1 x 16a 240v
1 x 4.5kW (800m3/hr) spot cooler
• 1 x 20a 240v
2 x 4.5kW (800m3/hr) spot coolers
• 1 x 20a 240v
1 x 7.3kW (960m3/hr) spot cooler
• 1 x 32a 415v
1 x 20kW (6,200m3/hr) 415v portable indoor packaged unit
• 1 x 32a 415v
6 x 7.3kW (960m3/hr) spot coolers/(43.8kW) (6,720m3/hr) collectively
• 1 x 32a 415v
1 x 35kW (6000m3/hr) outdoor temporary packaged unit
• 1 x 50a 415v
1 x 64kW (12999m3/hr) outdoor temporary packaged unit
CLASSIC MISTAKES TO AVOID
Table 3: Matching equipment with available power supply.
THE POWER FACTOR (NOT .8!) AND EQUIPMENT EVALUATION
Factors such as effective coverage of air flow in an open space (e.g., covering all data room cold aisles), concentrated cooling of a specific area (feeding cold air into an AHU), site space and the amount of allowable condenser exhaust air are all important factors when weighing up what equipment to use on the available power supply.
An important and often overlooked consideration when supplying temporary air conditioning is the amount of available power. People tend to size up a site in kWs before ensuring there’s enough power to support their plan. The considered GPOs should be identified on their circuits and circuit breaker sizes. From here you need to look at how to best utilise that power to maximise your air flow and cooling capacity, especially when three-phase power is available.
Some examples below (depending on power outlets and distribution board types). Most portable fans offer low power draw, and are often overlooked when it comes to temporary cooling accessories. You can boost airflow and or extract heat load very effectively with the right equipment. Mancooler fans provide high-volume airflow anywhere it’s required. Extraction fans provide heat-load extraction from situations such
Equipment type and capacity
Power draw
• 300mm extraction fan (300mm flex duct) 4,600m3/hr (1278L/s)
2.4a 240v
• 500mm extraction fan (500mm flex duct) 8,700.00m /hr (2417L/s)
4.5a 240v
• 500mm mancooler blower Fan 8,700m3/hr (2417L/s)
4.5a 240v
• 600mm mancooler blower Fan 14,400m /hr (4000L/s)
8.3a 240v
3
3
One common error is to attempt to replace 100 per cent or as close to as possible of the building air conditioning capacity. Building air conditioning accounts for loss and non-essentials like hallways, store rooms, etc., and this needs to be taken into account because temporary air conditioning should be kept to a minimum to reduce and alleviate any site interference. Sizing off the building air conditioning is fine for essential services such as data rooms with minimal built-in contingency. But most sites can be effectively cooled just by looking at the localised areas. Clusters of desks, main service counters, adjacent workspaces and alike can all be supplied efficiently with portable CB4900 spot coolers. CB4900 spot coolers can usually be located close to where they’re required, and they’re right there on the floor so there’s no performance loss like there is with ductwork. This greatly reduces the temporary air conditioning capacity required, and feeds the essential areas only. You can then look at industrial pedestal fans and like for anything else if needed. n
MORE INFORMATION This month’s Skills Workshop was supplied by Cool Breeze Rentals, with the text prepared by Jeff Bernard and Heath Taylor. Go to www.coolbreeze.net.au
Table 4: Equipment, specifications and power draw.
PROUDLY SPONSORED BY
AIRAH
Next month: Testing for electrical faults February 2018 | www.airah.org.au/nation | HVAC&R Nation | 17
Clean Air Home & Office™ HVAC & Duct System Protectant, Cleaner / Freshener Clean Air Home & Office™ is a simple and economical way to clean and freshen HVAC systems and ductwork from large central systems to small wall units. A full treatment takes only minutes, requires no tools and has immediate and long lasting results. Clean Air Home & Office™ cleans away the residue in evaporators and drain pans which is the cause of odours and the growth of bacteria, algae, fungi and moulds. The Clean Air Home & Office™ freshens the entire system leaving behind a durable, invisible, protective coating which is leach-resistant and non-migrating. It protects from broad spectrum biostatic activity on many surfaces and lasts approximately three months in HVAC systems. Heat transfer loss is not compromised due to the microscopic coating. In fact, it can increase efficiency as it breaks down surface tension of condensate water, allowing it to drain out of coils. Clean Air Home & Office™ has little degradation up to 170° C and contains no phenols, tin, heavy metals, lead or formaldehyde. It is non-toxic, water based and provides long term protection. One 250gm can of Clean Air Home & Office™ can treat a five to six tonne unit (approximately 5,000 sq ft of building area), or two to four typical wall units (15,000BTU). For ducted systems, locate the return air grille and remove the filter, with the system ON spray the contents of the can into the duct, the product will then be pulled into your system where it goes to work. You will immediately smell a light fragrance coming from the air vents in every room as the product travels through the entire system. The fragrance should disappear within 24 hours leaving the coating behind to continue its work.
18 | HVAC&R Nation | www.airah.org.au/nation | February 2018
Cool Tech
TIME FOR DIRTY DEEDS The G-Shock Mudmaster Triple Sensor Mud-Resistant Watch takes a licking and keeps on ticking. Made from stainless steel and hardened mineral glass, this special version of the G-Shock Mudmaster was created especially for those who work where piles of rubble, dirt and debris are present. A special vibrationresistant construction lets them stand up to wear while operating cutters, crushers, drills and other heavy machinery. “This is Casio’s first analog watch to come with Mud Resist construction, which helps to ensure that nothing gets into the watch when down-and-dirty work takes you deep into the dirt and sludge,” the company says.
With a 200m water resistance it also suitable for outdoor adventure activities such as climbing or diving. A triple sensor provides plenty of information. With one press the seconds hand swings free to point to magnetic north. The barometer function provides a guide to the air pressure, temperature and coming weather conditions. The altimeter indicates altitude above or below sea level. Illuminated by a double LED light, the watch is protected by sapphire crystal glass to ensure high visibility under virtually any conditions imaginable.
It also features a Multi Band 6 Radio receiver, and so-called “home hand correction”. This function ensures the watch continuously displays the correct time and automatically adjusts the hands when they’ve been knocked out of place, or suffered minor exposure to magnetism. Every 24 hours, the watch will automatically sync to the local time. Solar technology powers the watch, so the battery does not ever need to be replaced. n Go to www.gshock.com/watches/master-of-g/gwg1000-1a3
Refrigeration innovation Refrigeration 2018 March 26–27 • Sydney AIRAH’s Refrigeration 2018 Conference will be held March 26–27 in Sydney. The conference will include sessions reviewing the latest developments regarding legislation, technologies, and a multitude of industry-specific case studies. The conference trade display will give participants the opportunity during the breaks and cocktail functions to interact with leading industry suppliers on the latest refrigeration technology offerings. If you work in refrigeration, you cannot afford to miss the Refrigeration 2018 Conference. Major Sponsor – Heatcraft
For more information, go to www.airah.org.au/conferences February 2018 | www.airah.org.au/nation | HVAC&R Nation | 19
Cover Feature
WHERE TO FLARE The use of lo w-flammab ility refrigera air condition nts such as R ing equipm 32 in comm e n t is on necessary if is to success the HVAC&R fully meet it industry s obligation under the M s for the HFC ontreal Proto p hase-down col. But there as to wheth has been so er flare joints me confusio are allowed n fo r connection HVAC&R Na indoors. tion sets the record straig ht.
THE ISSUE Some confusion exists as to whether flare joints are suitable for use indoors on wall-mounted split systems charged with R32 (classified as a Class 2L lower flammability refrigerant) or any other flammable refrigerant. The alternative, a permanent connection such as a brazed joint, can only be achieved with an open flame. This contradicts flammable refrigerant safety advice.
THE BACKGROUND The standards that refer to the use of permanent joints indoors (between pipes,
fittings and plant) for refrigeration and air conditioning systems that you should be familiar with are AS/NZS 60335.2.40 (2006 and 2015) and AS/NZS 5149.2:2016. Then there is the international standard ISO 14903 Refrigerating systems and heat pumps – Qualification of tightness of components and joints (referred to in AS/NZS 60335.2.40:2015) and the advice of the AIRAH Flammable Refrigerant Safety Guide Clause 4.8. Like other parts of the Australian standards, full comprehension of the entire standard and subsequent interpretation, is required.
20 | HVAC&R Nation | www.airah.org.au/nation | February 2018
WHAT DO THE STANDARDS SAY?
Here’s an abbreviated version of the standards as they relate to connections, and our take on what they mean.
AS/NZS 60335.2.40:2006 Household and similar electrical appliances – Safety Part 2.40: Particular requirements for electrical heat pumps, air-conditioners and dehumidifiers
22.118 When a flammable refrigerant is used, all appliances shall be charged with refrigerant at the manufacturing location or charged on site as recommended by the manufacturer. A part of an appliance that is charged on site, which requires brazing or welding in the installation, shall not be shipped with a flammable refrigerant charge. Joints made in the installation between parts of the refrigerating system, with at least one part charged, shall be made in accordance with the following. • A brazed, welded or mechanical connection shall be made before opening the valves to permit refrigerant to flow between the refrigerating systems parts. A vacuum valve shall be provided to evacuate the interconnecting pipe and/or any uncharged refrigerating system part.
Cover Feature • Reusable mechanical connectors and flared joints are not allowed indoors. • Refrigerant tubing shall be protected or enclosed to avoid damage. Flexible refrigerant connectors (such as connecting lines between the indoor and outdoor unit) that may be displaced during normal operations shall be protected against mechanical damage. Compliance is checked according to the manufacturer’s installation instructions and a trial installation if necessary.
AS/NZS 5149.2:2016
FREQUENTLY ASKED QUESTIONS
Refrigerating systems and heat pumps – Safety and environmental requirements
Part 2: Design, construction, testing, marking and documentation 5.2.3.7 Specific requirements for the installation of piping for equipment intended to use A2, A3, B2 or B3 refrigerants. Note: This clause is modified by Appendix ZZ.
OUR VERDICT
Piping and joints of a split system shall be made with permanent joints when inside an occupied space, except joints directly connecting the piping to indoor units.
Flare joint is allowed indoors.
Components shall be shipped without refrigerant charge.
Both the indoor unit and the interconnecting pipe of wall-mounted split systems are not charged with refrigerant.
Refrigerant piping shall be protected to avoid damage.
OUR VERDICT AS/NZS 60335.2.40:2015 Household and similar electrical appliances – Safety
Part 2.40: Particular requirements for electrical heat pumps, air-conditioners and dehumidifiers
Flare joint is allowed indoors. The standard says permanent joints are to be used inside an occupied space “except joints directly connecting the piping to indoor units.”
A part of an appliance that is charged on site, which requires brazing or welding in the installation, shall not be shipped with a flammable refrigerant charge. Joints made in the installation between parts of the refrigerating system, with at least one part charged, shall be made in accordance with the following. • A brazed, welded or mechanical connection shall be made before opening the valves to permit refrigerant to flow between the refrigerating systems parts. A vacuum valve shall be provided to evacuate the interconnecting pipe and/or any uncharged refrigerating system part. • Mechanical connectors used indoors shall comply with ISO 14903. When mechanical connectors are reused indoors, sealing parts shall be renewed. When flared joints are reused indoors, the flare part shall be re-fabricated. • Refrigerant tubing shall be protected or enclosed to avoid damage. Flexible refrigerant connectors (such as connecting lines between the indoor and outdoor unit) that may be displaced during normal operations shall be protected against mechanical damage. Compliance is checked according to the manufacturer’s installation instructions and a trial installation if necessary.
OUR VERDICT Flare joint is allowed indoors. AS/NZS 60335.2.40 was changed in 2015, with the addition of the reference to ISO 14903 compliance for mechanical connectors used indoors. The standard requires re-fabrication of a flare joint when reused indoors.
propagation) refrigerant. (Reference AS/NZS/ ISO 817-2016)
Q: How easy is R32 to ignite? is difficult to ignite. For ignition to occur A: Rits32concentration in air must be between
14% (300g/m³) and 29%, the concentration must be relatively still and there must be a sufficient energy source present at the same time to cause ignition. Sparks generated by relays or switches in household appliances as well as common static electricity do not have sufficient energy to ignite R32.
Q: Why use a flare connection indoors? here is no requirement to use a special A: Tmechanical connector indoors when the
piping and indoor unit is not pre-charged with refrigerant. Installers already have the appropriate tools and are skilled in making flare connections, so … this will produce the most reliable connection. Source: Daikin R32 Pocket Guide.
“For flammable refrigerants, Clause 22.118 of AS/NZS 60335.2.40:2006 includes the sentence ‘Reusable mechanical connectors and flared joints are not allowed indoors’,” says Knox.
22.118 When a flammable refrigerant is used, all appliances shall be charged with refrigerant at the manufacturing location or charged on site as recommended by the manufacturer.
hat is the main difference Q: Wbetween R32 and R410A? R32 is a Class 2L (lower flammability) A: refrigerant and R410A is a Class 1 (no flame
AIRAH Flammable Refrigerant Safety Guide Clause 4.8 System jointing and construction standards The joining of refrigerant piping and components should, where possible, use permanent mechanical joints or be brazed. The use of serviceable-type joints such as flare nuts must not be used in the occupied space or in any area where leaked refrigerant could pool. Note: Serviceable-type joints are permissible on the outside of outdoor units as long as they are in an area with good ventilation and no risk of leaked refrigerant pooling. Refrigerant piping should be enclosed or protected to avoid mechanical damage during transport, installation and use.
OUR VERDICT Flare joint is allowed indoors. While this would appear to conflict with both of the above Australian Standards, the AIRAH Flammable Refrigerant Safety Guide was prepared in 2013, prior to the AS/NZS 60335.2.40:2015 update. Additionally, Australian standards take precedence over any industry Safety Guide.
THE MANUFACTURER’S TAKE ON THINGS According to Daikin’s engineering manager, Gary Knox, M.AIRAH, the misunderstanding around the use of flare joints with split systems charged with R32 relates to the complicated phrasing of international standards (which has been adopted into Australian standards).
But he points to a sentence immediately preceding this, which states that “Joints made in the installation between parts of the refrigerating system, with at least one part charged, shall be made in accordance.” “Wall-mounted split systems comprise of three parts – the indoor unit, interconnecting piping and the outdoor unit,” says Knox. “The indoor joining parts are the indoor unit and the interconnecting piping. Neither part is pre-charged with refrigerant, so it follows that indoor flared joints are permitted. This was later confirmed when the 2015 edition of AS/NZS 60335.2.40 was revised, and states that ‘When flared joints are reused indoors, the flare part shall be re-fabricated’”. Knox says that when installers are in doubt, the best source of information is usually the manufacturers’ installation instructions. Beyond that, installers should ask the manufacturer for help. “Brazing is not required to install our R32 wallmounted split systems, and our recommended installation method is the flare joint,” Knox says. Daikin considers the flare joint to be the best method of installation for wall-mounted split systems, giving consideration to industry practice, cost and reliability. “Our recommended installation for wall-mounted split systems fully conforms to AS/NZS 60335.2.40:2015.”
ONE LAST PIECE OF ADVICE We can’t say it enough – good practice is required when replacing refrigeration parts. Remove the part by a pipe cutter and never by a brazing torch. Please refer to SafeWork NSW Safety Alert | 07/11/2016 – Servicing Refrigerant Systems at www.safework. nsw.gov.au/news/safety-alert/servicing-of-refrigerantsystems for more information. n
February 2018 | www.airah.org.au/nation | HVAC&R Nation | 21
Safety Corner
THE DANGERS AROUND ACCESS HATCHES
Access hatches can be a hidden danger. Typically installed in HVAC-type ducting, fire extraction systems and suspended ceilings, sometimes you don’t know they’re there until it’s too late.
Access hatches are typically installed in HVAC type ducting, fire extraction systems and suspended ceilings to allow access for cleaning and maintenance. Since they were not designed to support body weight, they give way when someone accidently steps on them – resulting in injury or death.
ACCIDENTS There are several contributing factors when it comes to access hatch accidents: • Be aware the latches used to secure the panel against the frame of the opening may only be designed to compress the “air-tight” rubber seal and cannot support a body. • They’re completely removable and able to fall from the underside of the opening – i.e., the duct frame does not provide any support of the panel to prevent it from falling once the latches are released • They’re not easily identified by people inside the duct. For example: – no obvious components (latches or hinges) on the inside of the duct to indicate the panel is a removable access hatch. – no obvious signage or warnings within the duct area to identify the access hatch itself or to warn that it is not suitable for the support of people. – dust and debris on the floor of the duct may obscure workers’ view of any difference between the access hatch and the surrounding duct surfaces.
– reduced lighting may require time for a worker’s eyes to adjust to the lighting level in the duct. Permanent lighting is not normally installed inside ducting.
PREVENT ACCIDENTS
BUSINESS OWNERS
First, a ducting system designer should evaluate the duct to see whether a worker can get inside safely.
To eliminate the danger of access hatches, businesses should consider using specialist equipment to eliminate or minimise the need for workers to access the inside of the ducting for maintenance, cleaning or repair.
It’s also important to establish whether or not the access hatch adheres to the Australian Standard Structural design actions – Permanent, imposed and other actions, as referenced in the National Construction Code (NCC). Ducting system designers should also consider the following points: • Alternative designs that would eliminate or minimise the need for workers to access the ducting.
Prior to commencing work, duty holders must identify and manage all risks, including those associated with working at heights and falling objects. The risk assessment must include consideration of the manufacturer’s information regarding proper use, maintenance and repair of the ducting and associated equipment.
• Environmental vibration and temperature fluctuations (e.g. from operating plant) associated with the duct. This may cause fixings that rely on friction, to self-loosen over time and inadvertently release the access hatch. A falling access hatch has the potential to cause serious injuries when they are located above areas accessed by others.
Some areas of plant and structures accessible via access hatches may also be considered a confined space under the Work Health and Safety Regulation 2011. If so, duty holders must comply with the requirements for confined spaces under Part 4.3 of the regulation.
• Access hatches should not be able to fall when released. Upward opening panels are more likely to be supported by the frame of the opening in the event the latches fail.
Before commencing work in an area that may contain access panels at height, ensure:
• Access hatches should be prevented from falling during normal use by being hinged or secured to the duct structure i.e. with a chain that will withstand any shock loads applied. • Fixings on access hatches should be robust and remain serviceable for the life of the access hatch. • Avoid placing access hatches in areas where they can be jumped on, such as directly below another access hatch. • Design the ducting so that workers accessing them are less likely to place their body weight on the access hatch (e.g. locate the access hatch on the side of ducting). • Any access hatch accessible from inside ducting should be easily identifiable by being clearly marked with ‘Access hatch’ and its ‘Rated capacity’; or similar. These markings and/or the surface of the access hatch may also be bright contrasting colours to the surrounding surfaces of the duct to improve identification of the access hatch. • Do not rely solely on administrative controls to prevent workers from standing or crawling over them.
22 | HVAC&R Nation | www.airah.org.au/nation | February 2018
• All access hatch locations are identified, visually inspected and checked to ensure they are secure and that those accessible from within a duct are designed to support people. • Safe work procedures are developed based on the specific site location and type of work to be carried out. • Control measures are in place to prevent workers from inadvertently falling through the opened or unlatched access hatch when entering an access hatch. • There is an adequate level of lighting for tasks to be carried out safely. • All workers are trained in the task to be carried out and have the necessary experience and qualifications or licences required for any equipment to be used, such as industrial rope access equipment or elevating work platforms. n View the full Worksafe’s Safety guide to access hatches at www.worksafe.qld.gov.au/injury-prevention-safety/ safety-alerts/whsq/2017/access-hatches
Our wide product range ensures we have the missing piece for many situations. When it comes to air conditioning we know that every environment is unique, with its own specific requirements and challenges. That’s why our award-winning product range is so extensive, spanning from 2.6kW wall hung splits to 196kW packaged units and everything in between, which makes selecting the right choice easy. And whenever you do choose an ActronAir product, you can rest assured it comes with our well-earned reputation for energy efficient and reliable performance, backed up by the best service and support in the industry.
Wall Hung Split
Multi Split
Cassette
Low Profile Ducted
Split Ducted
Packaged
2.6kW – 8.2kW
5.2kW – 13.5kW
5.3kW – 13.75kW
7kW – 12.5kW
9kW – 71kW
15kW – 196kW
That’s better. That’s Actron.
February 2018 | www.airah.org.au/nation | HVAC&R Nation | 23
Around the Nation 1
Buying an air con?
2
More and more people are turning to the eskimo
3
for independent residential air conditioning advice for consumers
4
Four questions to ask before you buy. This quick reference guide provides you with important information to discuss with your retail sales person. This will help ensure you select the right air conditioner for your needs, and that it is installed legally and correctly.
1
CONNECTING INDUSTRY TO CUSTOMERS
This year’s Australian Refrigeration Council’s (ARC) summer campaign promotes the business directory website www.lookforthetick.com.au “Connecting refrigeration and air conditioning businesses with customers has been a big part of ARC’s operations for many years,” says ARC CEO Glenn Evans. “Businesses and technicians that do the right thing and get themselves qualified, licensed and authorised deserve to be held up on a pedestal as the highest standard of professionalism in the industry.” The 2017–18 summer advertising campaign uses a variety of cost-effective marketing strategies, including search engine marketing, online advertising, regional paper advertising, Google AdWords and Facebook advertising. The ARC is aiming to educate consumers on the importance of using qualified and licensed ARC technicians for refrigeration and air conditioning work, and ensuring consumers find the right person for the job. “For eight years, the ARC has invested in advertising the benefits of using ARC-licensed businesses and technicians – both in the stationary and automotive sectors – to the Australian community,” Evans says. “Last year 250,000 people visited our business directory website, looking to connect with businesses in their area.” Go to www.lookforthetick.com.au n
2
NATHAN’S SKILLS THAT THRILL
The performances of the 2017 participants at the 44th WorldSkills International competition in Abu Dhabi late last year have propelled Australia into the top 10 skill nations.
Refrigeration competitor Nathan McHugh, Stud.AIRAH, came seventh out of 23, and was awarded a Medallion of Excellence. A former student at TAFE Qld SkillsTech, McHugh works for DTM Air Services in Queensland. The four-day competition covered brazing, equipment knowledge, installation, commissioning and adjustment, fault-finding, and component replacement. The main task was to install and commission an ice tank system with heat recovery. To prepare for the competition, McHugh trained with WorldSkills Expert Carl Balke and his fellow teachers at TAFE Qld SkillsTech in Brisbane. Overall results for Australia’s 18 competitors saw it rank 10th out of 77 countries. McHugh, who was named Student of the Year – Trade at the 2017 AIRAH Awards, received support from Australia’s refrigeration and air conditioning industry, especially from sponsors Refrigerant Reclaim Australia, the ARBS Exhibition, Heatcraft, LuVe Contardo Pacific, Danfoss, and Rothenberger. The next national refrigeration WorldSkills competition will be held at the ARBS Exhibition in Sydney over May 8–10. Go to www.worldskills.org.au n
3
SOME FAIRAIR CARE
When you come across consumers looking for independent residential air conditioning advice, direct them to www.fairair.com.au As the blurb on the independent website says, “the right advice means the right choice.” “The aim of this website is to provide in-depth, unbiased information to consumers about home cooling options and products,” says AIRAH CEO Tony Gleeson, M.AIRAH.
24 | HVAC&R Nation | www.airah.org.au/nation | February 2018
Fairair is built and maintained by AIRAH, the Australian Institute of Refrigeration, Air Conditioning and Heating. Established in 1920, AIRAH is recognised by government and industry bodies for its expertise across a wide range of issues in the area of engineering services for the built environment. As the leading specialist membership association for HVAC&R professionals, AIRAH represents over 10,000 professionals across Australia. www.fairair.com.au n
4
HVAC&R’S OSCARS
The winners of the AIRAH Awards 2017 were announced at a glittering black-tie gala held at Sydney’s Doltone House late last year. The AIRAH Awards honour the outstanding individuals, projects, and products of the past year. Representing all facets of the industry, this year’s winners included a PhD student researching the effects of IEQ on the elderly; a world-leading, net-zero-carbon building in Sydney; a high-density, multi-story data centre; an innovative low dew-point dehumidifier, and an initiative aimed at “turning the dial” on gender inclusion. “Once again, 2017 raised standards higher; an impressive array of nominations was received across the categories, and presented judges with the difficult task of picking the crème de la crème,” says AIRAH CEO Tony Gleeson, M.AIRAH. “Indeed, the calibre of nominations for the AIRAH Awards has been astonishing. Collectively they have set a brilliant standard when it comes to innovation, leadership, and performance.” Among the winners of the AIRAH Awards 2017 were Student of the Year – Higher Education and Research Federico Tartarini, Stud.AIRAH; and Student of the Year – Trade: Nathan McHugh, Stud.AIRAH. Go to www.airah.org.au/awards n
Around the Nation 5
6
5
DARING DIGITAL DISRUPTERS
Nominations for the 2018 ARBS Industry Awards close by February 5; the biennial awards are hosted alongside the ARBS Exhibition in Sydney in May. The awards recognise excellence in the Australian HVAC&R industry across a range of areas, including Young Achiever, Product Excellence, Project Excellence, Industry Education and Training, Outstanding Service & Maintenance Provider, Hall of Fame, and a new category, Software/Digital Excellence. “The ARBS Awards are an opportunity for young achievers to showcase their skills, products and performance across all sectors of the HVAC&R and building services industry,” says ARBS exhibition organiser Sue Falcke. “It allows us to identify, promote and congratulate the talent and vision that sustains the industry.” A panel of industry experts will evaluate the nominations based on various criteria such as leadership, sustainability, performance and innovation. The ARBS Industry Award winners will be honoured at a gala dinner to be held during the ARBS 2018. Go to www.arbs.com.au n
6
SEELEY EXPANDS AGAIN
Seeley International’s expansion continues following the acquisition of California-based Integrated Comfort Inc. (ICI), a manufacturer of evaporative pre-cooling products. “This is a perfect fit for both organisations, strengthening our presence in the US market and supporting our trajectory growth to become a $1bn company,” Seeley International group managing director Jon Seeley says. “We are always looking at opportunities to invest in innovative companies and offer efficient products that complement our own solutions. We have been very impressed by ICI and its DualCool commercial and industrial cooling technology.” The DualCool product acquisition includes delivery, a warranty service program, and a controls integration system designed to maximise energy savings. ICI installed DualCool evaporative pre-coolers in more than 380 Walmart and Sam’s Club stores across the US, which equates to more than 2,570 units.
7
8
ICI’s DualCool product will become part of Seeley International Group’s portfolio, which includes the brands Breezair, Climate Wizard, Coolerado, Convair, Coolair and Braemar. Go to www.seeleyinternational.com n
7
CYCLING AGAINST THE BLACK DOG
Getting to see the Australian West Coast and raising money for a good cause were enough incentives for Trafalgar's owner John Rakic to take part in TourXOz, an eight-day cycling event from Perth to Broome late last year. Trafalgar is an Australian manufacturer and distributor of passive fire protection products and systems, based in Western Sydney. Rakic joined around 60 riders and completed the scenic ride in hot and blustery conditions on rough road surfaces. He exceeded his fundraising target of $10,000, and he and his friends raised over $320,000 for this event. The money goes to the Black Dog Institute to support research of mental health. Rakic says that creating awareness for this cause and talking with others who have won their personal battles against “the Black Dog” (mental health issues) was the highlight of this tour. Go to www.tourxoz.com n
8
HEATCRAFT’S R22 REPLACEMENT
Heatcraft Australia has commenced with the distribution of R422D, developed to replace R22 as a “drop in” solution. Targeted for users who wish to retain their existing equipment, it offers a financial advantage over the alternate “drop in” R438A, with a 40 per cent lower list price. “R422D is suited to low and medium-temperature refrigeration systems, and can be used in most commercial systems with mineral oil (MO) or alkyl benzene (AB),” Heatcraft says. “However, changing to polyester lubricants (POE) is recommended, and POE must be used for scroll compressors.” The capacity and energy efficiency at low and medium temperature tends to be lower than R22.
Heatcraft suggest that if an R22 system was running at maximum capacity, additional capacity may need to be achieved by upsizing the compressor. The R422D mass flow is also higher than R22. Existing TX valves may be acceptable in many cases; however, if the existing valve is near capacity for the R22 system, a larger valve may be needed. R422D is non-ozone depleting and A1 ASHRAE classified. Applications include supermarket display cases, food preservation and processing, ice machines, as well as unitary air conditioning and chillers without flooded heat exchangers. Heatcraft offers cylinders in 12kg and 60kg sizes. Go to www.heatcraft.com.au n
9
GOVERNMENT’S 10-DAY IMPROVEMENT
From July, the federal government will be required to pay invoices for contracts worth up to $1 million within 20 calendar days – an improvement from the current policy of 30 days. “Small business is big business for the built environment and the Australian economy,” says Consult Australia CEO Megan Motto. “Making it easier to manage cash flows is critical for industry confidence, our country’s competitiveness, and subsequently economic growth.” As part of the government’s response to the Australian Small Business and Family Enterprise Ombudsman’s report, the government also announced it will increase the transparency and accountability of Commonwealth agencies and entities, and create the right environment for the development, innovation and adoption of technological solutions. “The government spends billions each year on infrastructure, and while many of our large firms have the resource to work with the system, too many small firms feel they have to work against it,” Motto says. “For sole-trader and small-practice engineers, architects, and planners, time is money, and their level of administrative burden, be it through contracts or managing debts, can be the difference between thriving or surviving.” Go to www.consultaustralia.com.au n
February 2018 | www.airah.org.au/nation | HVAC&R Nation | 25
Legal Speak
PAID ON TIME, PAID IN FULL ADJUDICATION
In this month’s instalment of our legal advice column, Frank Gambera talks about your right to get your hard-earned faster. One of the biggest challenges facing contractors in today’s building industry is getting paid on time. The Building Construction Industry Security of Payment Act 2002 (Vic) (“Building and Construction Act”) is designed to enable contractors to get paid faster and to resolve conflict without going to court. The legislation covers all types of construction work within Victoria, including plumbers and mechanics specialising in air conditioning and heating. It is not possible to contract out of these provisions, no matter how cleverly an individual agreement has been worded. One thing is clear, the legislation offers protection to all contractors in the building industry.
HOW DOES IT WORK? Contractors can claim progress payments for construction materials, labour and/or consulting services once work has commenced. It is not necessary
In the event of a dispute between the parties, the contractor may apply for adjudication. This process involves an adjudicator being nominated by the Authorised Nominating Authority to make a final decision on the amount payable.
WHAT SHOULD YOU DO? Contractors should ensure they submit regular payment claims, especially prior to holiday periods, to ensure timely payment of claims.
Frank Gambera
to wait until the job is complete. A claim can be made every 20 business days after work has started for goods or services provided to date. The claim must state the amount due, the relevant work that has been performed, and show that it was made under the legislation.
FYI Although this article refers to Victorian legislation, the other states and territories have corresponding legislation. This article also refers to non-government contracts in the private sector, and the legislation is – and will continue to be – the applicable law in the industry.
WHEN SHOULD YOU BE PAID? Contractors must receive payment within 10 working days under the legislation, unless a payment schedule has been lodged by the builder/ developer or head contractor. The payment schedule outlines the proposed payment amount claimed and the reasons why it is less than the full amount. Failure to provide a payment schedule within 10 days will result in the full amount claimed becoming payable.
The item in “Around the Nation” on p.25 refers to government contracts. n Frank Gambera is a director for McMahon Fearnley Lawyers. Contact him at fmg@mcmahonfearnley.com.au or (03) 9670 0966.
SAFETY FIRST
FLAMMABLE REFRIGERANTS Safety Guide
SAFETY
GUIDE
GUIDE
SAFETY
FLAM
MABL E REFRI GERA NTS HEATING E OF INST ITUT ONI NG AND DITI TRA LIAN , AIR CON THE AUS Enclosed RAT ION vehicles includ REFRIGE e:
SAFETY
GUIDE
FLAMMA BLE
Enclosed vehicles
REFRIGE RANTS
CONSIDER
include:
cylinders in a
vehicle that is
an enclosed
transport is to be used to Is the vehicle that an enclosed vehicle? open to the gas cylinder(s) the vehicle is not as: luggage area of such vehicles That is to say the air) and includes the elements (open
over the tray
vehicle
without windows) • A van (with or • A panel van ge • A station wagon the tray or luggage/stora a canopy over • A utility with area over the tray a torneau cover ge • A utility with the luggage/stora vehicle whereby • Other type of part of the inside of the vehicle is compartment
Utility with a canopy
transported, less
Enclosed trailer This self-assess of all gas cylinders water capacity Is the gas cylinders ment document is for the transport 250L? up to a quantity than Flammab
vehicle is deemed are down, the an enclosed vehicle
66
of of 250L of le gases in Division 2.1 enclosedcabinet(s) wagons, and in a vehicles such shouldstored as cylinders be Section the gas Are 12 of this guide. read in conjunction vans and with the the vehicle? inside For quantities greater than gases, the 250L of Division full the Transport requirements of thegas escape2.1 Flammable any Australian Code ofsealed Dangerou whereby (ADG s Goods by vehicle? for apply and Is the7)cabinet of the enclosed Road reference forcannot enter the inside requireme must be made and Rail nts. to the ADG 7 or tube in the Is there a pipe to the outside?
cabinet, which
is vented
NTS
SAFETY
2 dangerous
MANDATO
RY ACTION
GUIDE
goods
ITEM
CONSIDER SATISFAC
Utility with
a cover over
TORY Transport of gas cylinder s in a vehicle Transport that is an of gas cylinder enclosed vehicle in an enclose d vehicle s Yes No Action required
the tray
Is the vehicle that is to be the gas cylinder(s) used an enclosed to transport vehicle? That is to say the elements the luggage area of the vehicle (open air) and includes such is not open to • A van (with vehicles as: or without windows) • A panel van • A station wagon • A utility with a canopy over area the tray or luggage/storage • A utility with a torneau cover • Other type over the tray of vehicle whereby the compartm ent is part of the inside luggage/storage of the vehicle Is the water capacity of than 250L? all gas cylinders transporte d, less
an enclosed vehicle
No Yes When cylinders the covers Transport of gas vehicle are down, the vehicle is deemed in an enclosed Utility with a cover enclosed compartment
E REFRI GERA
Traffic light in a “tool assessment system of trade” for the transp vehicle ort of Class
GUIDE
Y SATISFACTOR
Transport of gas
When the covers
SAFETY
us goods t of Class 2 dangero for the transpor ent system Utility with an enclosed Traffic light assessmvehicle compartm ent ACTION ITEM in a “tool of trade” MANDATORY
REFRIGE RANTS
Utility with an
FLAM MABL
ble Flammearants Refrig FLAMMA BLE
Action required
is YES, to this question If the answer with an open consider a vehiclespace such as a trayUtility with a canopy luggage/storage truck.
the tray a canopy over aids the For vehicles with install a vent that the of the vehicle, which will negate the in circulation of air flammable gases build-up of any the vehicle. storage area of
Are the gas cylinders stored inside the in a cabinet(s) vehicle?
is NO, to this question for a If the answer conditions apply. then the (relaxed) vehicle do not “Tool of Trade”
Is the cabinet cannot enter sealed whereby any gas the inside of the enclosedescape vehicle? Is there a pipe to the outside?or tube in the cabinet,
the door the seal around to a As an example, should be similar The of the cabinet refrigerator. door on a household is held cold air in the refrigerator seal. in by the door
which is vented
If the answer to this question consider a is YES, vehicle with luggage/s torage space an open truck. such as a tray For vehicles of the vehicle,with a canopy over the tray install a vent circulation that aids of build-up of air which will negate the any flammable the storage area of the vehicle. gases in the
If the answer to this question then the (relaxed) is NO, condition “Tool of Trade” vehicle do s for a not apply.
As an example, of the cabinet the seal around the door should be door on a similar to household refrigerato a cold air in r. The the in by the door refrigerator is held seal. The pipe or tube to be discharged allows any leaking gases to outside atmosphe re.
gases allows any leaking The pipe or tube to outside atmosphere. to be discharged
Are there appropriat e markings door of the on the cabinet, to indicate its contents?
Enclosed trailer
markings on the Are there appropriateto indicate its contents? door of the cabinet,
of for the transport nt document is 2.1 This self-assessme a quantity of 250L of Division to such as vans and gas cylinders up in enclosed vehicles the Flammable gases be read in conjunction with wagons, and should guide. 2.1 Flammable Section 12 of this than 250L of Division Code for For quantities greater of the Australian Rail gases, the full requirements Goods by Road and ADG 7 Dangerous the Transport of reference must be made to the and (ADG 7) apply . for requirements
66
www.ai rah.org
.au www.ai rah.org
.au 67
67
www.airah .org.au
INDUST
3 DE 201
www.airah .org.au
RY GUI
FREE ONLINE PUBLICATION AIRAH has released its Flammable Refrigerants Safety Guide, which is now available for FREE download. Believed to be the first of its kind in Australia, the guide was developed by independent organisations and stakeholders. AIRAH’s Flammable Refrigerants Safety Guide covers the health and safety risks involved in the design, manufacture, supply, installation, conversion, commissioning, operation, maintenance, decommissioning, dismantling and disposal of HVAC&R equipment and systems that contain a flammable refrigerant.
The guide is available to download FREE from www.airah.org.au Select the “Resources” tab then click “Technical Resources” on the drop-down menu.
26 | HVAC&R Nation | www.airah.org.au/nation | February 2018
Stop getting stuck installing fans. Request your free AHU Guide now.
The new ebm-papst EC Plug Fan Guide provides HVAC mechanics with the installation procedure and recommended practices for the use of EC plug fans in air-handling units (AHUs). It covers the topics of availability, installation and wiring, commissioning and troubleshooting. Fold-out wiring diagrams will give you detailed information while on site, and the compact format will fit easily into your shirt pocket. To receive your free hard copy of the ebm-papst Best Practice AHU Guide, call us on 03 9360 6400, email sales@ebmpapst.com.au or request it online: www.ebmpapst.com.au/AHUGuide.
2018_EC Guide_fullpage.indd 1
6/12/17 3:04 pm
February 2018 | www.airah.org.au/nation | HVAC&R Nation | 27
Smoko with . . .
. Name: Sophie Decottignies Technical Ser vices. Company : Veolia Energy inistrator. Occupation: Contract adm Air conditioning. industry do you work in? What par t of the HVAC &R &R industry? ut working in the HVAC What’s the bes t thing abo e multiple skills hav to d nee you industry where The technical par t; it is an w being a contract ks on an everyday basis. No to per form a diversity of tas e of the business, sid able to work on a different administrator means being . which is ver y interesting too ut 27 years. d in the industry? For abo How long have you worke Ver y useful tools l that made my life easier. Favourite tool? Every too and ratchet e were my ratchet wrench that followed me everywher spanner combination. do HVAC &R industry, what If you didn’t work in the toration. res e itur furn e doing? Antiqu you think you would be tion of HVAC &R Nation? What’s your favourite sec The new technologies. i Atlantic/1961 Dream car ? 1938 Bugatt Mustang Shelby GT 500. d For MG-MGA 160 0/1967 e the Lead. o Banderas in the movie Tak Dream date? With Antoni surrounding islands. Dream holiday? Tahiti and es traminer Vendanges Tardiv Drink of choice? Gewürz . – French wine from Alsace
– Nat King Cole listen to? “Unforgettable” What song did you las t is still to think ? “The most courageous act Favourite quote or saying win life”. l wil you Chanel. “Stand firm and for yourself. Aloud.” Coco Luke 21:19, Bible colate with brioche. Homemade creamy hot cho Favourite smoko snack? r Christophe. Sporting hero? My brothe h my family, . . I love spending time wit When I’m not working . and travelling. reading, listening to music,
Advertise in HVAC&R Nation in 2018
Contact: Glenn or John 03 8623 3000
28 | HVAC&R Nation | www.airah.org.au/nation | February 2018
AIRAH and Industry classifieds West Australia – Members’ Golf Day
EVENTS
Date: March 15 Venue: Maylands Peninsula Golf Club
Hobart Trade Night
AIRAH Trade Nights are a great opportunity to broaden your networks and see the HVAC&R industry's latest innovations. Date: February 22 Time: 4–7pm Venue: Wrest Point Casino 410 Sandy Bay Road Sandy Bay, Tasmania Cost: Free, upon registration
Tasmania – Members’ Golf Day Date: February 23 Venue: Claremont Golf Club
Coffs Harbour Trade Night
AIRAH Trade Nights are a great opportunity to broaden your networks and see the HVAC&R industry's latest innovations. Date: February 28 Time: 4–7pm Venue: C.ex Coffs International Stadium Stadium Drive Coffs Harbour, NSW Cost: Free, upon registration
Albury Trade Night
AIRAH Trade Nights are a great opportunity to broaden your networks and see the HVAC&R industry's latest innovations. Date: March 22 Time: 4–7pm Venue: Commercial Club Albury 618 Dean Street Albury, NSW 2640 Cost: Free, upon registration
AIRAH Refrigeration Conference 2018
The conference will include sessions reviewing the latest developments regarding legislation, technologies, and a multitude of industryspecific case studies. The conference trade display will give participants the opportunity to interact with leading industry suppliers on the latest refrigeration technology offerings. Date: March 26–27 Venue: Endeavour Grand Ballroom Novotel Sydney, Brighton Beach Cnr The Grand Parade and Princess Street Brighton-Le-Sands, NSW Cost: $660 for AIRAH members $770 for non-members
Free Classified Ads
ARBS 2018
ARBS 2018 will host over 350 exhibitors displaying the latest HVAC&R and building services products and technologies, and includes a seminar program. Date: May 8–10 Venue: ICC Sydney 14 Darling Drive Sydney NSW
The Future of HVAC Conference 2018
This leading conference for HVAC&R professionals and related industry experts attracts a broad range of stakeholders. Date: September 12–13 Venue: Etihad Stadium Docklands, Victoria Cost: for early-bird registration (closes on August 1, 2018): $660 for members, $880 for non-members
TRAINING Essential Safety Measures Courses
In this one-day course learn about the equipment and systems used for HVAC-based fire and smoke control in buildings, as well as the legislated performance requirements
for these systems. Find out what is necessary for maintenance to the requirements of state and territory legislation and the Australian Standard AS 1851-2012: Routine service of fire protection systems and equipment. Cost: $595 for members, $795 for non-members
Hobart, Tas Date: February 20 Venue: RACV Hotel 154–156 Collins Street Hobart, Tasmania
Melbourne, Vic Date: February 22 Venue: Telstra Conference Centre Level 1, 242 Exhibition Street Melbourne, Victoria
Brisbane, Qld Date: February 27 Venue: Watermark Hotel 551 Wickham Terrace Spring Hill Brisbane, Queensland 4000
Sydney, NSW Date: March 2 Venue: Primus Hotel 339 Pitt Street Sydney, NSW 2000 For a full listing of events, go to www.airah.org.au/events
Whether you are looking, selling, trading or tendering – HVAC&R Nation classifieds is the best way to spread the word! HVAC&R Nation is offering a free industry classified service! Send in your submissions, text only – no images or logos. Send your submissions to: matt.dillon@airah.org.au or c/o AIRAH, Level 3, 1 Elizabeth St, Melbourne 3000.
Be Impressed with Zetco Full range 15-50mm Press x press, press x female, press x male
IAPMO WM-000110 AS 5830.1
Phone 1300 659 639
Email enquiries@zetco.com.au
www.zetco.com.au
February 2018 | www.airah.org.au/nation | HVAC&R Nation | 29 HVAC HP Be Impressed 220X150 NoBleed v1.indd 1
19/10/2015 12:23 pm
The Lighter Side This month’s Lighter Side is brought to you by
www.actrol.com.au Actrol is Australia’s largest wholesaler of parts to the refrigeration, air conditioning and allied industries. Check out more Lighter Side submissions on the AIRAH Facebook page @AIRAHconnect.
2
1 WINNER
3 Brought to you by
5
4
1
AND ADAPT IWhile MPROVISE delivering some condensers, Daniel found this cracker of a temporary fix in Sydney. “Despite the induced-draft coil being changed to a forced-draft coil with a pedestal fan, the fast-food proprietor assured me that the cool room temperature was as good as ever,” Daniel says. “I purchased my lunch elsewhere that day.” n
2
3
Sunshine Coast. And yes, they are hooked up and running. n
4
UNDERGROUND MOVEMENT
Mick found this in Rockhampton on his way to fix a slushy machine. “Apparently when you have a business underneath a shopping centre this is how the air-con runs,” says office manager Tammy. n
IN THE GAME SIanKIN found this fella in Canowindra, NSW. “It made me look twice, but the customer ran a mile,” Ian says. “The unit was still running but she isn’t interested in keeping it for some reason.” n
ANGING AROUND HLaurie came across this installation on the
5
ONDON CALLING LBrendan encountered this set-up while on holiday. 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 Managing Editor, Matthew Dillon at matt@airah.org.au
30 | HVAC&R Nation | www.airah.org.au/nation | February 2018
The multi-feature powerhouse
Universal Condensate Pump 1.75 - 35 kW Integrated replaceable 10 A fuse Factory-installed replaceable 5 Ă— 20mm 10 A glass fuse
COMBI
Universal application
Digital sensor Unique digital water level sensor
6,000 Btu/H up to 120,000 Btu/H (1.75kW to 35kW)
GOBI II
Quiet mode
Diagnostic LED
Configure pump performance to AC unit capacity
Ensures correct initial installation and assists in diagnostics
USB connection View operational pump history
Available at
J3843_Refco_Flyer_210x297_061117_V2.indd 1
hvac
6/11/2017 5:16 PM
February 2018 | www.airah.org.au/nation | HVAC&R Nation | 31
Drama-free workdays
The Haier air conditioning range is reliable, reputable and designed for Aussie conditions. They’re quick and easy to install and offer 24/7 customer support, meaning faster turnaround for you. Haier is the world’s #1 for connected air conditioners. 24/7 Customer Care: 1300 729 948 Source Euromonitor International Limited. Claim issued on 1 Feb 2017. Haier is the number one brand of connected air conditioner (including smart air conditioner) in the world, with a market share of 23.6% in terms of volume sales in 2016.
HAIER_AC_HAM_FPC_HVAC.indd 1
7/11/2017 11:17 AM