HVACR Nation March 2019 by AIRAH

Skills WORKSHOP

Air filtration theory and fundamentals

Missing piece of the puzzle Residential AC standard AS 5141 has landed

Fish tales A world-leading approach to aquaculture

March 2019 / ISSUE 119â&#x20AC;&#x192;

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2 | HVAC&R Nation | www.airah.org.au/nation | March 2019

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17/1/19 4:21 pm

March 2019 / ISSUE 119

Fish Tales 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 Communications Manager Matthew Dillon matt.dillon@airah.org.au Tel: 03 8623 3000

Editor Mark Vender mark.vender@airah.org.au Tel: 03 8623 3022

Contributing writer

Where in Australia would you go looking for barramundi? We went to Melbourne’s western suburbs and found one of the most advanced aquaculture facilities in the world.

Sean McGowan

Advertising sales

HVAC&R Nation regulars

Glenn Douglas glenn.douglas@airah.org.au Ph: 03 8623 3018

The Toolshed

Skills Workshop 15

See what’s new in the ‘Shed

John McGrath john.mcgrath@airah.org.au Ph: 03 8623 3007

8 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.

Air filtration theory and fundamentals

Exclusive to this issue

14 Green Wedge Put on your helmet and fasten your seatbelt – we’re going e-racing!

19 Safety Matters A clear perspective on eye protection

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.

24 AIRAH News The Flammable Refrigerant Safety Guide is now online

25 Refrigeration 2019 AIRAH’s annual conference is set to be massive

26 Around the Nation Who’s in the news?

28 Cool Tech Is the Suunto Core the ultimate adventure watch?

29 Smoko with . . . Q&A with Jesse St John

13,159 September 2018

Lighter Side

Missing piece of the puzzle The long-awaited Australian standard for residential air conditioning has arrived. Sean McGowan looks at what it means for HVAC&R professionals around the country.

The shonkier side of the nation

PLEASE CONSIDER THE ENVIRONMENT AND RECYCLE THIS MAGAZINE IF YOU ARE NOT GOING TO KEEP IT.

March 2019 | www.airah.org.au/nation | HVAC&R Nation | 3

Ed’s letter

GONE FISHING I love my job. Working with words has always been my thing, so the idea of spending hours a day in front of a computer just writing and editing is heaven to me.

Mainstream Aquaculture’s Matt Mangan (pictured) generously gave up a couple of hours of his time to take me and Dr Michael Riese from refrigeration contractor Cold Logic around the facility and explain in detail how it works. There was the high-tech fish sorter (like a wet-and-wild ride for barramundi) and the massive tanks with thousands of fish rippling the water. Then it was on to the amazing array of water-filtering equipment, and of course the ice slurry system that Cold Logic installed.

Obviously it’s very different to working in the field as a fridgie. But I reckon there are similarities. The same satisfaction that some of you might get from fixing a real head-scratcher of a fault or nailing a flare joint, I get from reorganising a jumbled sentence or coming up with a cracking headline.

But what wowed me the most was the enthusiasm and the passion that Matt exuded. Here was another guy who clearly loved his job. And hats off to him and the team. With dedication, ingenuity and a can-do attitude they have created a world-leading facility that deserves to be celebrated. Check out our feature on page 20 to see what I mean.

That said, sitting at a desk all day can leave you craving a bit more action. So when our contributing writer Sean McGowan rang to say that he couldn’t make it to the site visit for his story on a barramundi farm in Melbourne’s western suburbs, and would I like to go instead, I was all over it like barra on live bait.

It’s another example of the amazing applications of HVAC&R, something we always try to shout about in The Nation. Anyway, best get back to it. Got a couple of other stories to investigate about a gelato factory and a brewery . . .

Straightaway I started imagining what this site visit would entail. Probably a fishing session, right? And we could finish it off with some freshly caught and cooked barramundi. Well, you know, writers have active imaginations. In the end it wasn’t like that at all, but it was also better in ways I never expected.

@AIRAHnews

Mark Vender Editor mark.vender@airah.org.au

Advertise in HVAC&R Nation HVAC&R Nation, has the highest distribution and readership of any HVAC&R publication in Australia. Targeted distribution Circulation 13,170 Readership 32,925 HVAC&R Nation is distributed free over the counter at more than 260 outlets Australia-wide including: Actrol, Heatcraft, Airefrig Australia, Beijer Ref, Cold Chain Group, Polyaire, Reece, Totaline, Tradeline Plumbing and TAFE colleges.

Contact: Glenn Douglas – glenn.douglas@airah.org.au or John McGrath – john.mcgrath@airah.org.au 03 8623 3000 4 | HVAC&R Nation | www.airah.org.au/nation | March 2019

Welcome to the family. ActronAir are proud to introduce the Variable Capacity Commercial series into our extensive, award-winning product line-up.

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That’s better. That’s Actron.

March 2019 | www.airah.org.au/nation | HVAC&R Nation | 5

Toolshed 01

Don’t get scammed on spares

and efficient refrigerant recovery in any application. With the increasing use of R32 refrigerant in air conditioning, have peace of mind as the RECO250-R32 is designed to handle flammable refrigerant.”

Compressor specialist Bitzer is fighting back against product pirates by adding QR codes to the packaging of its original spare parts. Users can now scan a code to check the authenticity of their products and access other relevant information.

Features include fast liquid and vapour recovery with a 0.5hp oil-less compressor, heavy-duty condenser and fan, high-pressure safety shut-off, and a filter/drier to remove moisture and acid from refrigerant. It has been designed to be easy to carry and use and comes with a two-year warranty.

According to the company, product pirates not only sell counterfeit compressors, but also fake oils and fake spare parts. Each QR code is linked to the specific part and the package it comes in. It also links customers to a description and picture of the part, its number, protection data, as well as direct access to the relevant documentation in Bitzer’s spare parts software, EParts.

Shop online and use the code HVACRN20 to purchase the RECO250-R32 at the discounted price of $939.20 including GST. This includes free shipping Australia-wide. Go to www.aitcool.com.au n

“The devil is in the details,” says Bitzer. “First signs of counterfeits are often already visible in the packaging. These first hints may include poor alignment of the logo print, different colour schemes of the Bitzer logo or a lower-quality cardboard box. Fake spare parts themselves show risks of low performance due to wrong dimensions as well as poor materials, machining and finish.”

04 02

Johnson Controls has extended the capacity range of its York YZ Magnetic Bearing Centrifugal Chiller to include chillers beyond 3,516kW, now up to 4,747kW of refrigeration. The unit has already won the 2019 AHR Innovation Award in the Cooling Category, and Johnson Controls hopes to raise the bar even higher by expanding the chiller’s capacity.

Customers are advised to contact their nearest Bitzer office if they doubt the originality of their spare parts. Go to www.bitzer.de n

Looking for a bigger chiller?

The York YZ Chiller uses an integral, variable speed drive and advanced magnetic bearing technology with a single moving assembly suspended in a magnetic field. According to Johnson Controls, this technology requires 80 per cent fewer moving parts than traditional oil or refrigerant-lubricated drivelines, delivering enhanced reliability, reduced maintenance and improved efficiency.

Power+ protection

Carel has introduced PSD2, the new Power+ family series of speed drives for DC compressors. PSD2 comes with integrated and certified compressor protection to guarantee unit safety. External protection devices such as thermal overload devices, circuit breakers and electromechanical devices are no longer required, meaning lower costs, less space requirements and simplified wiring.

“The PSD2 series speed drives guarantee compliance with IEC and UL 60335-1, where applicable, as well as IEC and UL 60730-1 thanks to integrated compressor protection,” says Carel. “Compliance with these standards, as well as guaranteeing safety and protection for users, is a legal requirement for all manufacturers.

“The YZ Chiller is a groundbreaking advancement in engineering that was built on decades of industry-leading chiller experience,” says Johnson Control’s Laura Wand. “Our engineers challenged themselves to re-imagine what a next-generation chiller could be, and the result was a system that is fully optimised for ultimate performance. We’re thrilled to build on the success of the chiller and expand the line’s capacity.” Go to www.johnsoncontrols.com n

Triple treat

“In addition, the ‘safe torque off’ (STO) input is certified according to EN13849-1 for use with safety devices, such as high-pressure switches.

Panasonic has launched its new 3 Pipe FSVEX Heat Recovery range.

“Compliance with these standards simplifies the procedure for certification of the unit and avoids the need to install and calibrate the various additional protection devices.”

The simultaneous cooling and heating solution boasts an energy efficiency ratio (EER) of 4.87 (cooling) and a coefficient of performance (COP) of 5.09 (heating).

Certified class B software provides compressor protection through redundancy measures and plausibility checks. These can prevent dangerous situations arising and limit major failures.

Units range from 22.4kW to 135kW, making them suitable for commercial environments such as hospitals, aged care facilities, retailers and schools.

The PSD2 is suitable for refrigerated showcases in supermarkets, HVAC and heat pumps.

The new range can be controlled centrally (up to 256 indoor units) and has a smart cloud-control option. It is compatible with existing building management systems.

Go to www.carel.com n

“Energy-efficient solutions remain a strong focus for the industry, as we build more economical and sustainable office and living environments,” says Panasonic’s product marketing manager Jack Tey. “Panasonic’s 3 Pipe FSVEX Heat Recovery range is the market-leading solution, helping companies to achieve this ambition.”

A cool deal

Aitcool Australia specialises in researching, developing, manufacturing and selling refrigeration tools for HVAC&R, including vacuum pumps, refrigerant recovery units, charging scales, manifold gauge sets, tube-cutters and flaring tools. And this month Aitcool has a special deal for HVAC&R Nation readers. “We are proud to showcase one of our most popular products, the RECO250-R32 recovery unit,” the company says. “Built to perform, this compact and robust unit will ensure safe 6 | HVAC&R Nation | www.airah.org.au/nation | March 2019

Other features include 100 per cent rated capacity operation up to 43°C during cooling, cooling operating range up to 52°C and heating operation down to -20°C. The units also have 150 per cent indoor connectivity ratio, all invertor compressors, an intelligent oil management system, variable evaporation temperature (VET) and variable condensation temperature (VCT), and blue fin condensers. Go to aircon.panasonic.com.au n

Toolshed 06

Kings of fire safety

Lately we’ve seen a big focus on fire performance in the building sector, so Kingspan is happy to announce that its Kooltherm K17 insulated plasterboard has achieved a Group 1 fire rating.

Reliable Controls has released a new version of RC-Hospitality. Reliable says it is a simple, flexible, and sustainable guest-room integration solution. RC-Hospitality automatically assigns the HVAC/lighting occupancy setting for any room upon guest check-in. This enables the MACH-System to improve guest-room comfort and operational efficiency, while delivering analytics for the entire facility.

The product was put through the rigorous AS ISO 9705 full-room-scale fire test, and both components – the plasterboard and the rigid foam insulation – achieved a Group 1 result. The National Construction Code (NCC) requires a group number to be determined in accordance with AS 5637.1, where a full-scale test is conducted. Although plasterboard products are only required to undergo small-scale testing (AS/NZS 3837), Kingspan chose to test its Kooltherm K17 insulated plasterboard to the full-scale AS ISO 9705 test to ensure its performance.

Room service

RC-Hospitality integrates into property management systems (PMS) via TCP/IP (ethernet). It provides custom integration with the Opera PMS and can accommodate up to 2,000 rooms.

The “set and forget” configuration involves just editing two files through Notepad. And an intuitive interface incorporates a room list screen that shows the current configuration of rooms and their occupancy status according to the PMS.

“We wanted to confirm our product was still fit to be used in all areas of all building classes and would perform as required,” says Kingspan Insulation’s technical R&D and accreditation manager, Keith Anderson, M.AIRAH. “As a company we are focused on ensuring our products are up to standard and can provide the results we promise.”

The system supports the international standard BACnet protocol and integrates with existing BACnet HVAC and lighting controllers.

Go to www.kingspaninsulation.com.au n

“With RC-Hospitality and the MACH-System, integrating guestroom control, saving energy, and demonstrating greenhouse gas reductions has never been easier,” says Reliable Controls.

Finally, users can access flexible functions such as log clearing, test communications and resynchronise room status.

Go to www.reliablecontrols.com n

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

ECODUCT is an environmentally friendly low-profile duct system that is specifically designed for high-rise apartment applications where limited ceiling spaces are common. ECODUCT is the premium Green Star and Best Practice PVC product on the market. With these credentials and up to 50% recycled PVC incorporated you can rest assured you are using the best product in the ever-growing green star building industry. ECODUCT together with its vast range of fittings is perfectly suited for bathroom, laundry and range-hood ventilation systems where it will efficiently exhaust airflow rates up to 180l/s. With most bathrooms requiring exhaust rates of 50l/s, ECODUCT enables you to combine systems (such as bathrooms, ensuites and laundries) that can run off one inline fan and an integrated lighting circuit. This saves the client money at the same time as increasing installer efficiency.

Tel: (03) 5278 5573

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

ECODUCT has been designed, developed and made in Australia. Our manufacturing facility is one of the first in Australia to incorporate technology whereby we can utilise up to 50% recycled PVC specifically formulated to exceed industry standards. End product is 100% recyclable. ECODUCT is the lightweight alternative to sheet metal ductwork. With no risk of corrosion, it has a longer lifespan which ensures there’s no need to ever have the ductwork replaced. ECODUCT Ventilation systems can be fully sealed using a fire seal mastic type sealant which is the preferred method of sealing by most contractors. By using ECODUCT you will eliminate the need for forecasting quantities, early ordering and storage costs associated with purchasing imported products.

The duct is available Australia wide and can be delivered anywhere in the country within a week.

Email: sales@ecoduct.com.au

www.ecoduct.com.au

March 2019 | www.airah.org.au/nation | HVAC&R Nation | 7

Global Update

NETHERLANDS

ISRAEL

CRYO-CRIMINAL

AC GETS TOP STAR RATING

They say revenge is a dish best served cold, but a 48-year-old Netherlands man may have taken it too far when he hacked into the refrigeration systems of a Plus supermarket branch and a medicines warehouse to get back at his ex-employer. Three months after losing his job with refrigeration company Nijmeijer Koeltechniek, the man hacked into a former client’s systems, changing the temperature settings and putting stock at risk. The passwords had not been changed since he finished working at the company, giving him easy access. Fortunately, damage to stock – including medical supplies such as blood and insulin – was limited because the change was detected quickly. The man carried out the cyber-attack from Norway, where he is living. The Dutch court imposed a four-month prison sentence. n

We’ve seen big-name Aussie sportsmen as brand ambassadors for air conditioning companies – Tubby Taylor and Mark Winterbottom come to mind. Israeli air conditioner manufacturer Tadiran has taken the star factor to another level by employing Oscar-winning US actor Morgan Freeman for its new campaign. The 81-year-old was in Israel last November to film his National Geographic program The Story of God. The Taridan commercial riffs on the God theme in that show, as well as in Freeman’s 2003 movie Bruce Almighty. “From the time I played God in the movies, people seem to confuse me with Him,” says Freeman in the humorous ad. The punchline is that his air conditioner at least gives him godlike control over the weather in his own home. The campaign includes television, billboard, newspaper and online ads to be released throughout 2019. n

FRANCE

CHINA

‘BREAKTHROUGH’ HFC TAX

REEFER REVOLUTION?

France has adopted an HFC tax that will enter into force in 2021. The measure uses a 40 per cent income tax discount to encourage companies to make the transition away from HFCs. It will also support the adoption of alternative refrigerants from now until December 31, 2022. “The implementation of a tax on hydrofluorocarbons in 2021 . . . is a real breakthrough on a key theme,” says MP Matthieu Orphelin, one of the early and strongest advocates of the HFC tax in the French parliament. “It responds to the commitment of the government taken in the July 2017 Climate Plan to limit the use of HFCs, which are powerful greenhouse gases with a global warming potential more than 15,000 times greater than carbon dioxide – and are at the origin of just over 5 per cent of France’s greenhouse gas emissions.” n

8 | HVAC&R Nation | www.airah.org.au/nation | March 2019

The world of refrigerated containers – or reefers – is set for a shake-up with the development of a container that uses a phase-change material (PCM) rather than a traditional refrigeration system to keep its contents cool. Experts at the University of Birmingham have worked with China’s biggest rolling stock company, CRRC Shijiazhuang, to develop the new reefer. It uses an organic-based PCM designed to keep the temperature inside the container between 5–12˚C for up to 120 hours. Commercial trials have already seen real goods carried for 35,000km of road and 1,000km of rail transport across different climate zones. Several cold chain logistics companies in China have expressed interest in the container, which provides a more stable temperature than mechanical units. It does not need a power supply during its journey either, making transfer between road and rail easier. n

AIRAH Industry Nights

TRADES • INNOVATIONS • ENGINEERING AIRAH Industry Nights are a great opportunity to broaden your networks and see the HVAC&R industry’s latest innovations. Whether you’re looking for the latest technology to improve your business, or extending your networks, there will be plenty on offer. March 20

GEELONG, Vic

Sphinx Hotel

April 10

WAGGA WAGGA, NSW

Rules Club

May 15

MELBOURNE, Vic

Caulfield Racecourse

May 23

BRISBANE, Qld

Royal International Convention Centre

May 30

TAMWORTH, NSW

Wests Tamworth

June 13

PERTH, WA

HBF Stadium

June 26

DARWIN, NT

Sky City Casino

July 03

WESTERN SYDNEY, NSW

Rosehill Gardens

July 25

CENTRAL SYDNEY, NSW

Luna Park

August 21

CENTRAL COAST, NSW

The Entrance Leagues

August 27

CAIRNS, Qld

Pullman Casino

August 29

TOWNSVILLE, Qld

The Ville Resort Casino

September 4

SHEPPARTON, Vic

Parklake Hotel

September 25

CANBERRA, ACT

Exhibition Park

October 10

ROCKHAMPTON, Qld

Leagues Club

October 17

ADELAIDE, SA

Adelaide Entertainment Centre

October 31

GOLD COAST, Qld

Southport Sharks

Free entry – Doors open at 4pm

www.airah.org.au/industrynights March 2019 | www.airah.org.au/nation | HVAC&R Nation | 9

Feature

MISSING PIECE OF THE PUZZLE In late November last year, a new standard for residential heating and cooling systems came into being following the publication of AS/NZS 5141:2018. As Sean McGowan reports, the new standard focuses on best-practice installation and design to ensure energy efficiency is realised in the sector. The culmination of almost nine years of work and advocacy by industry organisations including AIRAH, AREMA, the ARC and RACCA, the new Australian Standard AS/NZS 5141:2018 Residential heating and cooling systems – Minimum applications and requirements for energy efficiency, performance and comfort criteria has now been published.

For those installers taking

The standard outlines the specific requirements for design, selection, installation, commissioning and maintenance of residential heating and cooling climate control systems.

them out

It is considered by many as a missing piece of the puzzle in the HVAC&R industry’s efforts to reduce its impact on global warming. “There are countless schemes in place to guide energy-efficient products in our homes, but none look at the installation and design of air conditioning and its impact on overall energy efficiency,” says Dr Bronwyn Evans, CEO of Standards Australia. Over the past two decades, the introduction of equipment energy efficiency programs including energy star labelling and MEPS (Minimum Energy Performance Standards) has driven air conditioning equipment manufacturers to dramatically improve their products’ energy efficiency.

shortcuts, the introduction of the standard will find

But these efficiency gains – coming at a cost to the manufacturer and ultimately the consumer – are often negated when equipment is subject to poor design and installation practices. AS/NZS 5141:2018 now introduces minimum requirements for the selection and installation of this equipment – and system components. This ensures that the final, installed system is able to operate at its optimum efficiency, as designed by the manufacturer. Robert Beggs is general manager at Temperzone Australia and Chair of the Standards Australia Technical Committee responsible for AS/NZS 5141:2018. He says the standard has long been needed.

10 | HVAC&R Nation | www.airah.org.au/nation | March 2019

“As a representative of an air conditioning equipment manufacturer, my impression of the residential AC installation sector was that the majority of installations were carried out by competent tradespersons in a quality manner in order to provide the consumer with an effective, efficient, quiet and trouble-free comfort solution,” he says. “However, I did see cases where shortcuts were taken and inappropriate equipment and components were applied, with a consequential poor outcome for the consumer. This was really disappointing knowing all the effort and design changes that manufacturers have applied over the past 20 years to improve the energy efficiency of their products.” He says that for the majority of residential designers and installers, the requirements of AS/NZS 5141:2018 will be “a piece of cake” and most likely confirm what they are already doing. But for those installers taking shortcuts, the introduction of the standard will find them out.

NINE YEARS LATER The new standard was first proposed in early 2010. At the time industry bodies such as AIRAH cited the oversizing and misapplication of residential air conditioning units as one of the barriers to improving operating efficiency in the sector. These issues were among those identified in the recently released Cold Hard Facts 3 report, authored by The Expert Group. “The key issues in the residential air conditioning sector are mostly field-practice issues,” says The Expert Group managing director Peter Brodribb, M.AIRAH. “They mostly occur where contractors do not follow the ‘golden rules’.”

Feature

Ultimately, the final property owner is the loser. It can take years before the true extent of issues comes to light These rules include the undertaking of heat load calculations, preparation of a duct plan, and following good-practice installation, commissioning and maintenance guidelines. Brodribb says price is also often a big factor, resulting in good contractors being undercut by those prepared to cut corners and use inexperienced sub-contractors to meet the developer’s price. “Ultimately, the final property owner is the loser,” he says. “It can take years before the true extent of issues comes to light.” Having experienced compound annual growth rates of about 5 per cent from 2012 to 2016, the residential air conditioning market shows no signs of reaching saturation. Even if just a small percentage of systems are poorly installed and maintained, the impacts on comfort performance and energy efficiency are significant.

Demand for residential cooling keeps on growing, so strong standards are vital.

“Over the years, we have had countless phone calls from home owners experiencing problems with the comfort performance of their installed air conditioners,” says AIRAH’s Phil Wilkinson, F.AIRAH. In response, AIRAH developed the FairAir website to provide consumers with some guidance on these issues. “But as residential air conditioning has continued to grow in popularity in Australia,” says Wilkinson,

“there has never been an authoritative guide to point consumers to, for their peace of mind.” Wilkinson says the publication of AS/NZS 5141:2018 now gives consumers something to rely on to ensure a comfortable, cost effective and safe outcome is delivered. “The creation of the standard was one of the top 10 priorities of PRIME. And importantly, it brings together the best collective knowledge from the industry into one document.”

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March 2019 | www.airah.org.au/nation | HVAC&R Nation | 11

Feature Under AS/NZS 5141:2018, the customer must receive a copy of heat load calculations.

The design conditions set out by AS/NZS 5141:2018 include winter indoor temperatures of 21°C dry bulb at outdoor design temperature, and a summer indoor temperature of 24°C dry bulb for refrigerated cooling at 50 per cent relative humidity. “Some owners want a system to cool to 16°C when it is 35°C outside,” Knox says. “This standard provides a reference that will help installers explain that an indoor condition of 24°C is a reasonable benchmark.” The standard also requires a “consumer handover” at the completion of an installation. The installer must provide the homeowner with all operation manuals and warranty documents and conduct a briefing including an explanation of system operation and maintenance. All documentation pertaining to statutory requirements, including Certificates of Compliance (where applicable) must also be provided, as well as design documentation including the heat load assessment.

CALCULATING HEAT LOADS The requirement for proper heat load calculations to be completed prior to system supply and installation is something AIRAH is satisfied the new standard addresses. Beau Logue, M.AIRAH, is mechanical project engineer and member of the technical committee behind the standard. He says this requirement should lead to less variance in what is offered to consumers. “The standard outlines how to size a system appropriately,” Logue says. “It also requires that heat load assessments be completed and given to the consumer.

STANDARDS WITHIN THE STANDARD Like most Australian standards, AS/NZS 5141:2018 refers to a number of other standards – many of which are a requirement of existing regulations, codes and licensing. These include AS/NZS 3000, AS/NZS 3500, AS/NZS 1668.2, AS/NZS 4254 and the new refrigeration safety standard AS/NZS 5149.

A simple ‘watts per square metre’ assessment is not enough, and this will make it difficult for the showroom salesperson to size a system without details of the house.” But he says the impact on designers and sales staff doesn’t end there. “The temperature sensor location must also be identified in the design, and duct-sizing parameters are included in the standard. Dump zones into ceiling voids are also not permitted.” The standard also requires that air balancing be completed, and that a record of the refrigerant quantity be made.

SETTING EXPECTATIONS According to Daikin Australia engineering manager Gary Knox, F.AIRAH, poor quality installations have been a long-term issue for the industry. He says AS/NZS 5141:2018 addresses this by benchmarking the minimum quality of an installation. “Poor-quality installations damage the good work done by the majority of installers, and can dramatically increase energy consumption,” Knox says. “But an installation to AS/NZS 5141 should benefit the homeowner with better cooling, heating and energy performance, lower energy bills and system longevity.” As well as improving installation quality, Knox says the new standard may also assist suppliers, designers and installers in setting realistic performance expectations for the homeowner.

“As with most technical tradespeople – be it an electrician, plumber, carpenter or your average fridgie – there are some basic compliance requirements that their work is required to meet,” says Beggs. “Generally these requirements are specified in standards or codes, and knowledge of the requirements is part of being a competent tradesperson.” AIRAH encourages members to remain up-to-date with compliance requirements by obtaining a copy of all relevant Australian standards from Standards Australia.

The standard could also help temper Australians’ thermal expectations.

12 | HVAC&R Nation | www.airah.org.au/nation | March 2019

And in the event of complaint, the new standard provides both installers and consumers with an instrument to lean on. Brodribb says AS/NZS 5141:2018 provides both direction for industry participants (i.e., suppliers, contractors, designers) and an up-to-date instrument for end-users to engage a suitably qualified and experienced independent engineer to provide an Expert Witness Report. “This provides both parties with guidance on a path forward – whether that be through rectification via the installing contractor, or arbitration to reach a financial agreement or legal action via the courts,” he says.

A RESIDENTIAL REVOLUTION Although some in the industry are already calling for the new standard to be called in the National Construction Code (NCC) as well as state regulations, it will – for the time being at least – remain a voluntary code. To this end, Beggs would like to see the industry self-regulate and embrace the standard. “I would expect that the parts of the residential air conditioning sector that provide quality installations will use compliance with the standard in their proposals to differentiate themselves from the not-so-good installers,” says Beggs. “And I would expect the standard to generate a greater focus on the up-front selection of quality equipment and components.” Copies of AS/NZS 5141:2018 are now available for purchase from Standards Australia. n

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March 2019 | www.airah.org.au/nation | HVAC&R Nation | 13

Green Wedge

CHARGING FOR GLORY

Acceleration has also improved – the Gen2 goes from zero to 100kmh in just 2.84 seconds. Most importantly, a larger battery means drivers can now complete the full race distance of 45 minutes plus one lap. Previously, they had to swap cars. Another new feature is the Attack Mode, which gives drivers a 25kW boost if they drive over a special part of the track. If you think that sounds a bit Mario Kart, well, you’re not alone. Formula E has already attracted scorn from the purists for the FanBoost feature, which lets you vote for your favourite driver over social media. The winner gets extra power during the race. They are gimmicks, but they’ve given fans skin in the game, and engaged viewers all over the world.

NO EARPLUGS REQUIRED BMW driver António Félix da Costa during the E-prix at Parque O'Higgins Circuit, Santiago, Chile. Photo: Sam Bloxham / LAT Images.

For the first time this year we will see official electric world series for car and motorcycle racing. Welcome to the future. Although electric vehicles (EVs) are still a rare sight on Australian roads, the global battle between petrol and electric – if there ever was one – is over. EVs are here to stay. One sign of this is the introduction of official world series for both electric car and electric motorcycle racing. This month we look at Formula E. Next month we’ll check out its two-wheeled equivalent, MotoE.

LET THE SPARKS FLY! The FIA-sanctioned series began in 2014, so it already has some momentum. But this fifth season, which started in December 2018, has brought major changes. First, a new car. The Spark-Renault SRT 01E has been replaced by the Gen2. Maximum power has risen from 200kW to 250kW, as has top speed, from about 225kmh to 280kmh.

But what about the noise, or rather the quiet? The lack of roaring petrol engines might take away from the aural experience, but the more neighbourly noise levels allow races to be held in cosmopolitan city locations: New York, Paris, London, Berlin. The fact that the events have a “green” tick also helps. Another selling point has been the calibre of manufacturers. Jaguar, Audi, Nissan and BMW are all involved in some way, and Mercedes-Benz and Porsche have confirmed they will join next season. Given that they’re all using the same car produced by a third party, you could question how involved they really are. And certainly, Formula E at this stage seems to present them with a commercial opportunity more than a technological one. “Win on Sunday, sell on Monday” still holds true, even if you’re not selling the actual race car. Until now the series organisers have been careful to restrict changes to keep the level of R&D and spending down – and to avoid a situation where one maker comes in and dominates, a la Formula 1. But that is changing. And once they are allowed to start developing in earnest, the gloves will really be off. n

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Join Australia’s leading HVAC&R directory www.hvacrsearch.com.au 14 | HVAC&R Nation | www.airah.org.au/nation | March 2019

AIR FILTRATION Skills THEORY AND Workshop FUNDAMENTALS HVAC&R

MODULE

119

PROUDLY SPONSORED BY

Skills summary n What? A guide to the concepts and principals of air filtration.

n Who?

PULLOUT

Relevant for equipment manufacturers/ suppliers, designers and installers and maintenance contractors.

The mechanisms for the separation of particles and gaseous contaminants from the air are fundamentally different. Particles are separated by mechanical or electromechanical effects, whereas gases are generally separated by adsorption or absorption.

Cleaning indoor air and removing pollutants from the airstream is a recognised indoor air quality strategy. This is one of the significant advantages that mechanical ventilation can provide over natural ventilation systems, where air cleaning is more difficult. Cleaning the air also maintains clean internal HVAC surfaces, retaining system operating efficiency and avoiding HVAC hygiene issues. This Skills Workshop provides an overview of the theory and fundamentals of the science of particulate air filtration.

hence lower the resistance. Initial resistances of 180Pa or higher are experienced when such air filters are operating in their normal air velocity range.

Despite obvious limitations to theories, some consideration has been given to assessing single fibre capture ability and calculation of mean fibre diameter from pressure drop measurements. From this information an assessment of efficiency is possible.

Particle capture theory

For removal of relatively low concentrations of particles, larger than a few microns in diameter, filters composed of coarser fibres are used in the form of a loose mat with larger inter-fibre distances. Air velocities are high to make use of inertial effects and initial resistances are usually lower than 150Pa.

Theories of filtration are generally based on particulate trajectories around an isolated cylinder (a fibre) and particulate deposits due to inertia, interception and diffusion onto fibrous strands.

Initial resistance, for both sub-micron and larger than 1 micron filters, at normal air velocity range, varies from 10pa to 300pa and more, due to a wide range of factors.

Particle capture by a particulate air filter fibre involves two different mechanisms:

Industrial filters are typically made from woven fabrics and, when new, operate inefficiently against low particulate concentrations. With high particulate concentrations, deposits will build to form a cake on the fabric, causing the filter to act like a sieve with a consequential rapid rise in resistance. When the resistance increases to a pre-determined value, the cake is removed by mechanical action, after which the filter is ready for a further cycle starting at low efficiency followed by deposition of a fresh cake of dirt.

• Electrostatic attraction (attracted to fibre)

Theories relating to particulate trajectories around an isolated cylinder lying transverse to the airflow are difficult to correlate with actual filter performance due to the following:

Inertia

PARTICLE CAPTURE FUNDAMENTALS

• The probability that one of the dust particles will collide with one of the media fibres, (deposition) • The probability that the particle, once contacting the filter fibre, will continue to adhere to it (adherence). Fibrous filters consist of a maze of fine fibres, with a large bed depth in comparison to the dimensions of the particles to be filtered. The diameters of the fibres must be small relative to the inter-fibre distances or the filter will clog with a consequent rapid rise in air resistance. Filter construction depends on the duty for which it is designed. The media of a filter designed for sub-micron particles is usually composed of fine fibres, many of which will be less than one micron in diameter. Air velocity is restricted to a few centimetres per second allowing diffusion to take place. Initial resistances for these types of air filters are usually high. Pleating of the filter media is used to increase the surface area and

• Aerodynamic interference between neighbouring fibres • Fibres do not lie transverse to airflow in the media material • Fibres are not all of the same diameter • Finer fibres often twist around larger fibres • Not all fibres are circular in cross-section.

Particle capture methods There are five ways in which particles can be deposited on, or be captured by, the fibres of an air filter media. As shown in Figure 1, these are: • Straining (sieved by fibres) • Inertia (impingement) • Interception (being caught) • Diffusion (dispersal)

These particle-capture processes all occur simultaneously within the filter media and each contributes, to some extent, to the overall filter efficiency. Straining The particle is larger than the gap between the fibres. It cannot pass through and is captured. Straining effects are typically only applicable to relatively large particles or very fine media. Larger particles do not move around the fibres (with the airstream); they are carried straight into the fibre by their own inertia and are captured by this impact. The effectiveness of particle collection by inertia forces increases with increasing particle mass (i.e., increasing particle size) and increasing particle (air) velocity. For the typical air velocity used in HVAC systems the impingement effect becomes dominant for particles with diameters greater than 1.0μm.

March 2019 | www.airah.org.au/nation | HVAC&R Nation | 15

HVAC&R Skills Workshop Capture efficiency and air velocity

Dust particle

The relationship between air velocity and the efficiency of the interception impingement and diffusion processes are shown in Figure 2. Although this is a simplistic view, a relationship between efficiency and velocity has been demonstrated experimentally.

Fibre

Airstream

Fibre

The diffusion effect decreases with increased air velocity while the impingement effect increases with increased air velocity (up to a point) and the interception effect is relatively constant, i.e., it is independent of air velocity.

Straining

Dust particle Fibre

Diffusion

Efficiency

Airstream

Inertia

Airstream

Interception

Impingement

Fibre Dust particle

Interception

Velocity Figure 2: Air velocity and the impingement, interception and diffusion processes.

Dust particle

Capture efficiency and particle size

Fibre Airstream

The relationship between particle size and the efficiency of the interception and diffusion processes are shown in Figure 3.

Airstream Dust particle

Charged Fibre

Electrostatic attraction

Filtration efficiency

Diffusion

Diffusion Interception Total

Figure 1: Straining, inertia, interception, diffusion and electrostatic effects.

Interception Midsize particles do move along the airstream lines and these also contact fibres and are captured by the fibre. The probability of a particle hitting a fibre due to interception increases with increasing particle size and fibre size. Interception dominates arrestance for particles with diameters between 0.5 and 1.0μm.

0.010

0.10

1.0

Particle diameter (μm) Figure 3: Particle size and the interception and diffusion processes.

Diffusion The smaller particles move randomly across the airstream lines and contact fibres by Brownian motion. This random movement, outside of airstream lines, causes the particle to contact the fibre and be captured. The effectiveness of particle collection by diffusion increases with decreasing particle size and decreasing air velocity. Where there is no predominant electrostatic interaction, particles with a diameter of less than 100nm are deposited almost exclusively by diffusion. Electrostatic interaction Under the electrostatic interaction mechanism the particles are pulled toward the fibre due to an electrostatic charge that is imposed on the fibre. The effectiveness of particle collection by electrostatic interaction increases with decreasing air velocity and particle size and increases with charge on fibre or particle. Electrostatically charged fibres may lose their charge over time resulting in rapid and permanent reduction in arrestance. 16 | HVAC&R Nation | www.airah.org.au/nation | March 2019

Diffusion is the dominant effect for the smaller particle sizes (≤0.1µm), and interception is the dominant effect for the larger particle sizes (≥ 10.0µm). Diffusion and interception effects equally influence particle sizes between 0.1µm and 1.0µm, see Figure 4.

Penetration of sub-micron particles The particle size that most greatly penetrates a filter is a function of filter media construction, particulate challenge density, and air velocity. This size is called the most penetrating particle size (MPPS) for that filter. Figure 5 shows a typical particle size-penetration distribution curve for a hypothetical filter media, indicating the MPPS. The MPPS for this filter lies between 0.2 and 0.3 micron and this performance characteristic can be modified by changing the media filter fibre diameter and packing density and by adding electrostatic charges onto fibres. MPPS can be any particle size in the range (not necessarily 0.3 micron), dependent on flow, velocity and fibre packing/diameter.

Fractional collection efficiency

HVAC&R Skills Workshop • Surface tension due to films of moisture on particles or nearby surfaces. Relative humidity is significant in the retention of particles larger than one micron and in the cohesion of aggregates. Capture efficiency usually decreases as relative humidity of the air decreases. This, however, is not true for high-efficiency filters removing sub-micron particles.

1.0 0.8 0.6 0.4 0.2 0

Inertial impaction and interception regime

Diffusion and interception regime

Diffusion regime

0.01

0.1

1.0

Particle diameter (microns)

MPPS

Air velocity 0.04m/s

• Duration of contact. The forces of adhesion between a filter surface and particles larger than 10 microns increase with time.

FIBRE COATING ENHANCEMENT EFFECTS Impingement filters can be treated with adhesives or gel coatings that coat the fibres and create a bond between them and any dust particles that may impinge upon the fibre, increasing the adhesion.

Percentage penetration (%)

• Size of particles, shape and filter surface roughness, which influence areas of contact.

• Temperature. By altering surface tension forces, temperature can influence adhesion.

Figure 4: Relationship between particle size and capture method.

PULLOUT

• Surface contaminants such as soluble materials or very small particles that affect the closeness of contact between the filter surface and particle.

This coating helps prevent the particle from being dislodged, due to air velocity or fibre vibration by increasing the adhesion between the particles and the filter fibres.

MPPS 0

0.2

0.4

0.6

0.8

1.0

Particle size (μm) Figure 5: Typical filter relationship between penetration and particle size.

Filters are tested in the MPPS range (e.g. HEPA filters tested at 0.3 micron) in the knowledge that if an efficiency rating is established at this particle size range then the efficiency at all other size ranges would be better.

Figure 6: Particles adhere to fibres.

Adhesion The second mechanism needed for particle filtration theory is the adhesion of the particle to the fibre. For the filter to be effective, particles must adhere (stick) to the fibre surfaces they come into contact with. See Figure 6. In general, it is assumed that particles adhere to surfaces when they come into contact. Particles can fail to adhere when there is high relative velocities between the particle and filter fibre surface, resulting in re-entrainment of dust in the airstream. All air filtration devices depend on adhesive forces. Factors contributing to adhesion include: • Electrical forces between particle and filter surface. The force between two molecules is inversely proportional to the seventh power of their distance apart. These forces, called Van der Waals forces, are of greater importance in adherence of small particles than for large particles. • Electrostatic forces. The attraction of particles because of their electric charge.

PROUDLY SPONSORED BY

TRA THE AUS

TITU LIAN INS

REFRIG TE OF

N, ERATIO

DIT AIR CON

IONING

TING AND HEA

DA15 S AIR FILTER

TIO N APPLI CA

MA NU

This month’s Skills Workshop has been taken from the newly updated DA15 – Air Filters and Cleaning Devices – Selection and Application.

Next month: Safety with A2L, A2 and A3 refrigerants March 2019 | www.airah.org.au/nation | HVAC&R Nation | 17

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18 | HVAC&R Nation | www.airah.org.au/nation | March 2019

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Safety Matters

THE EYES HAVE IT The construction, mining, agriculture, forestry and fishing industries . . . account for 60 per cent of all eye injuries in Australia high or extra high-impact eye protection and when to use safety glasses, safety goggles, face shields or a combination of these.

CHOOSING YOUR IMPACT RATING Eye protection impact ratings are determined by the ability of the personal protective equipment (PPE) to withstand an impact from a specifically weighted ball without cracking, detaching or dislodging, breaking or coming into contact with the eye or the head. Check your safety eyewear to see if it has the Australian Standards logo, which indicates it conforms to tests for impact resistance.

When a normal day’s work can include angle grinding, drilling, brazing and working with toxic refrigerants, protective eyewear is a must. Australians suffer around 50 000 eye injuries every year even though many of those injured were wearing eye protection at the time of their injury. Safety eyewear is often incorrectly fitted, is not rated appropriately for the task or does not provide adequate protection, according to a 2008 report from Safe Work Australia (SWA). Ordinary eyewear such as prescription glasses, sunglasses or contact lenses do not offer appropriate eye protection and can actually increase the severity of injuries in the event of an incident.

IMPACT RATING

GLASSES, GOGGLES AND FACE SHIELDS Although impact resistance is critical, you should also consider whether you need safety glasses, safety goggles, a face shield, or a combination of these.

Eye injuries can lead to permanent vision loss, contributing to depression and negatively affect work and social relationships, as described in a Comcare “Eye Health in the Workplace” guide. According to the stats, the most dangerous industries for the eyes are the construction, mining, agriculture, forestry and fishing industries. These account for 60 per cent of all eye injuries in Australia. It is therefore critical you have the appropriate eye protection. That means knowing when to usemedium,

RATING REQUIREMENT

In determining suitable safety eyewear, a risk assessment should be carried out by a competent person or an OHS professional to choose what suits your work environment. Also consider the type of lens, the shape of your head, and whether anti-fog lenses for are required for humid conditions.

SUITABLE TASKS

Can withstand impact from an object moving at 12m/s or 43kmh.

Chipping, riveting, spalling, hammering and managing a strap under tension. Choose safety glasses with a Standards mark.

Medium

Can withstand impact from an object moving up to 45m/s or 162kmh.

Scaling, grinding and machining metals, some woodworking tasks, stone dressing, wire handling and brick cutting. Choose safety glasses with a Standards mark “I or F”.

High (visor only)

Can withstand impact from an object moving up to 120m/s or 432kmh.

Metal chipping, hydraulic nailing or any mechanical procedure involving high-velocity machinery.

Extra High

Can withstand impact from an object moving up to 190m/s or 684kmh.

Any mechanical procedure involving very-high-velocity machinery.

Low

Safety glasses allow air in and around the eye area, whereas safety goggles fit tight against the face, offering protection against dust and splashes. Face shields provide further protection and can also be worn over spectacles or goggles.

If you are welding, it is recommended to wear protective eyewear under a welding mask, especially for applications when the shield is often raised, such as chipping and grinding. n

Thanks to ProChoice Safety Gear for providing the info in this article. Check out the company’s new Australian website at: au.prochoicesafetygear.com All ProChoice Safety Gear protective eyewear is rated medium impact or higher, has polycarbonate lenses; 99.9 per cent UV protection and is Certified to AS/NZS1337.1:2010 Standards. That certification means you have quality assurance that the product will perform as stated.

March 2019 | www.airah.org.au/nation | HVAC&R Nation | 19

Cover Feature

FISH TALES Melbourne may be an unlikely spot to find barramundi, but it is now home to the largest indoor fish farm of its type in the world, thanks to its proximity to market, a well-placed aquifer, and some leading-edge refrigeration technology. Sean McGowan reports. Think barramundi, and your mind is automatically taken to the Top End. This famed fighting fish thrives in the wetlands, rivers and coastlines of the Northern Territory, Queensland’s Cape York and Western Australia’s Kimberley region. Deriving its name from the indigenous language of the first Australians, barramundi (Lates calcarifer) means large-scaled river fish. But we can’t claim the “barra” all to ourselves. In the wild they can be found from the Persian Gulf to Southern China, Papua New Guinea and Australia’s north. And thanks to the eating qualities of the fish – its white, flaky flesh and mild flavour – the species has grown in commercial importance. Although wild-caught Barramundi is still much sought after and fished internationally, it is also being heavily farmed. Aquaculture facilities have sprung up across

Australia, Malaysia, India, Singapore, Indonesia, Israel, Thailand, Saudi Arabia, Vietnam and the United States of America. Said to be the fastest growing animal food producing sector in the world, aquaculture has grown at 8 per cent per annum for the past 50 years. It now produces almost 100 million tonnes of product per annum globally. In fact, the sector’s growth saw it surpass wild fisheries in 2014 as the world’s largest source of seafood products.

TAKING IT MAINSTREAM Australian company Mainstream Aquaculture was founded in 2001 with the vision of becoming the world’s leading provider of recirculating aquaculture seafood products.

20 | HVAC&R Nation | www.airah.org.au/nation | March 2019

The aquifer supplies hatcheryquality water to the facility at around 29°C – hot enough to sustain the growth of barramundi without the need for heating Through over a decade of research and development, the company has perfected its proprietary technology to enable the year-round production of barramundi from two facilities in Australia. One is an award-winning pond system and research facility located in Far North Queensland. The other is the largest recirculating aquaculture system in mainland Australia located in Werribee, Melbourne, a suburb 32km south-west of Melbourne’s CBD that is better known for its vegetable farms than anything of a piscatorial nature. The site was carefully selected by Mainstream in 2003 for its proximity to Melbourne’s wholesale fish markets. But even more important was the unique geographic feature that lies beneath the site: a pristine geothermal water source. Located some 300m below ground, the artesian aquifer is said to be five times the size of Port Phillip Bay and extends from Little River and Ballan in the west, to the Great Dividing Range in the north, and as far as Phillip Island to the south-east.

Cover Feature

Only part of the 4m deep tanks are visible at ground level – the rest can be accessed via a basement level.

The aquifer supplies hatchery-quality water to the facility at around 29°C – hot enough to sustain the growth of barramundi without the need for heating. “When we found the land, we ran a trial before we purchased it,” says Matthew Mangan, commercial project manager for Mainstream Aquaculture. “The former owner allowed us to drill pilot bore holes, deep and shallow, and then run some growth trials of the barramundi. We ran every combination we could and found that fish grown in the water sourced from the deep bore were growing exceptionally well.” Mainstream originally constructed a facility on the site capable of producing 50 tonne of fish per year, but further research and testing allowed them to scale the business fourfold by 2007. In 2012, the company began the development of a Melbournebased hatchery, designed to produce over 20 million commercial-grade barramundi fingerlings (juvenile fish) per year. This supported the acceleration of its selective breeding program. But the huge local and international demand for barramundi led them to think bigger. And in mid-2016, the company set about building the largest indoor production facility of its type in the world.

INSIDE AQUACULTURE The size of Mainstream Aquaculture’s Werribee operation is staggering. Designed across four levels, it features eight 4m deep tanks that hold approximately 600m3 (600,000L) of water sourced from the aquifer. This water is recirculated twice every hour via a complex system of pipes and pumps. To maintain a pristine growth environment, the water is filtered to remove all fish waste and other contaminants – the product of which is turned into a liquid fertiliser. “We really pride ourselves on being full cycle,” says Mangan. “We take the water from the ground, reuse it over and over again, and any waste by-products – liquid or solid – are turned into our fertiliser product.” In the industry, this is known as a grow-out facility. Fish enter the tanks at around 250g and spend 20–25 weeks growing to “plate size” – on average 700g.

Fish for the fillet market are grown to 3kg before being harvested. All fish feeding is automated, with silos using compressed air to send feed to each tank according to the size of stock within it. Over the course of its business, Mainstream has also developed technology to conduct a fully automated part-harvest of a tank. This means it can vary its production according to demand to keep the final product as fresh as possible. “There may be 60 tonnes of fish in a tank,” says Mangan, “but with this system we can take just 20 or 25 tonnes.” To do this, fish and water are pumped to the fish-handling facility on a mezzanine level of the building where they are automatically size-classed and laser-counted. This enables a single person to move fish around without damaging the product or causing stress to the fish. “It’s a bit like a water park,” says Mangan. “The fish just move along and end up in the destination we’ve predetermined.”

The systems used to grade the fish allow for them to be returned to the tanks for further growth. Harvestable fish are sent to a purging tank where they are given a high water exchange to prepare them for market. Those set for processing are chilled via a stateof-the-art ice slurry system imported from Canada. And this is where refrigeration comes into play.

DEEP CHILLING A bespoke ice slurry system was sourced, engineered and supplied to Mainstream Aquaculture’s by Cold Logic, as part of the Werribee facility’s construction. This type of system is used throughout the world, and also closer to home by operators in Tasmania’s salmon fishery. According to Cold Logic’s Dr Michael Riese, M.AIRAH, the cost-effective system was designed to drop the core temperature of the fish to 2°C without increasing the stress on the fish, and facilitate the chilling of batches of 5,000kg at a time during the harvesting process.

GOING THE METRIC MILE According to Cold Logic’s Dr Michael Riese, M.AIRAH, one of the unforeseen challenges arising from the installation of the ice slurry system at Mainstream Aquaculture was overcoming the differences in design standards between foreign-made equipment and Australian standards. “Even though the equipment was sourced from North America (Canada), it was all in metric piping,” he says. So what’s the problem, you might ask – we did!

Well, despite the metrication of Australia that began in 1966 with the conversion to decimal currency (and subsequently saw the conversion of measurements from imperial to metric under the direction of the Metric Conversion Board), many types of pipe and associated fittings used in Australia still use imperial measurements, or versions of. “Matching Australian pipework to Canada’s truly metric pipework specifications was a challenge,” says Riese, “and made it more difficult to interface the system.”

March 2019 | www.airah.org.au/nation | HVAC&R Nation | 21

Cover Feature “Ice slurry was of particular use in this application because it has a very large surface area and facilitates an increased heat transfer when compared with block or flake ice,” says Riese.

The saline slurry is noticeably colder to the touch than normal ice water.

“Additionally, the manufacturer – based in Canada – has an expansive track record in providing ice slurry systems to the Australian aquaculture industry, and they have been found to work reliably in Australian environmental conditions.” The ice slurry used at Mainstream is produced from saline water at a temperature of -1°C by a 15kW refrigeration system operating on R404a. The entire system was shipped from Canada to Australia on a skid, complete with reciprocating compressor, water-cooled condenser, pumping and control station, brine control unit, ice silo and slurry dispenser. During non-harvesting times the system grows a block of freshwater ice within an insulated silo. When ice slurry is required, an automated system removes ice crystals from the block and transfers them to a mixing tank. Here, saline water is added to achieve the pre-determined slurry mix ratio before it is pumped to a bulk vessel. The barramundi are then plunged into the ice slurry and immediately enveloped in spherical ice crystals that draw heat from the fish, reducing the core temperature of 5 tonnes of fish in 90 minutes. “The texture we’re looking for is almost like a slushy you get from a 7-Eleven store,” says Mangan. “Just liquid enough that when the fish come in, they sink in. “We have sensors on the vessels that monitor the temperature, so if it is telling us the slurry is warming up too much [barramundi are warm-blooded], the system will dump more slurry in to maintain the correct temperature.” For smaller orders, slurry can also be delivered to 1,000L bins. The cold temperature of the slurry not only maintains the quality of the fish flesh, but also manages bacterial growth.

According to Mangan, company trials have shown that this process chills the fish around twice as quickly as any other. “It’s a really great piece of equipment – well worth the investment,” he says. “At this scale, you’ve got to make it as easy as possible for the technicians working. So with this, they come in around 2am in the morning, turn the slurry machine on and have ice ready for the harvest.” And why 2am? “It’s the seafood market (in Melbourne),” Mangan says. “Their hours are generally 2am until lunchtime, and we service those guys. Unlike suppliers from the Top End, we are able to supply fish that were swimming just hours beforehand.” According to Riese, Cold Logic has a history of taking on different and interesting projects and this was no exception. The ice slurry system selected for this project was a first for Cold Logic, and it was therefore important that the team understood the constraints of the equipment and how it operated. A significant amount of time was invested in ensuring that the operators at Mainstream were familiar with its function and operation, which required additional training during the initial set-up. One of Cold Logic’s locally based refrigeration technicians was also engaged to provide routine service and maintenance and has become what Riese describes as “the company’s expert in all aspects of the system”. A representative from the Canadian manufacturer was also engaged to commission the unit onsite. Riese says that above all, it was also important to fully understand the usage pattern of the equipment by the client. As well as ensuring the equipment is appropriately sized, this knowledge can also lead to a reduction in capital costs and avoid additional problems resulting from not being able to accommodate required future growth.

Ice is held in this silo, ready for harvest and use.

“As the ice slurry system was only a small part of the larger, overall construction project at Mainstream Aquaculture, it was also important to coordinate with the head contractor and Mainstream,” says Riese.

22 | HVAC&R Nation | www.airah.org.au/nation | March 2019

“By establishing a good working relationship with Hutchison, everyone’s life was made much easier. And when delays occurred during construction, an open channel of communication allowed us to adapt quickly to changes in site access and delivery timelines.”

EXPORTING WORLDWIDE The Werribee facility has allowed Mainstream Aquaculture to cement itself as a leading supplier of both barramundi table fish and fingerlings, both in Australia and overseas. In fact, through its research and development arms, it is now the largest supplier of barramundi fingerlings in the world, distributing them to producers in 24 countries across five continents. Combined with advances in refrigeration technology, the scalability of sustainable aquaculture is significant. And its ability to meet global food demand is likely to become more important as wild fisheries are protected. n

PROJECT AT A GLANCE HVAC EQUIPMENT s Chillers: Sunwell s Compressors: Bitzer s Condensers: BAC s Controls: Sunwell / Cold Logic s Electrics: Sunwell / GPS Electrical

THE PERSONNEL s Client: Mainstream Aquaculture s Controls: Sunwell / GPS Electrical / Cold Logic s Mechanical Services Design: Cold Logic s Mechanical Services Contractor: Cold Logic

Refrigeration innovation Refrigeration 2019 March 25–26 • Melbourne • Four international keynote addresses • More than 30 expert speakers • Networking functions, and more. 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 2019 Conference. For more information, go to www.airah.org.au/conferences Major Sponsor:

Supporting Sponsor:

March 2019 | www.airah.org.au/nation | HVAC&R Nation | 23

AIRAH News

GETTING FAIR DINKUM WITH FLAMMABLES

We need to ensure that . . . our industry is properly equipped to work safely, efficiently and professionally with any refrigerant they encounter The online Flammable Refrigerants Safety Guide also incorporates audio and “test your knowledge” tasks. It has been updated to refer to standards AS/NZS ISO 817 and AS/NZS 5149 series, which have superseded AS/NZS 1677. It also incorporates revisions to regulations that impact the application of flammable refrigerants. The online resource is designed to raise awareness and refresh and complement existing knowledge. It is not a substitute for the detailed nationally endorsed technical training required to safely and productively work with flammable refrigerants. In conjunction with this effort, official training courses have also been developed for TAFE to ensure that new technicians arrive at the workforce with the skills they need. All this work is vital to make sure that as we strive for more sustainable HVAC&R systems we maintain the safety of the people who install and maintain them. n

AIRAH has released a free online version of its Flammable Refrigerants Safety Guide The HVAC&R industry is facing a challenge: how to switch to refrigerants that have a lower global warming potential (GWP). This is being driven broadly by Australia’s international commitments to reduce emissions as part of the Paris Climate Agreement, and more specifically by our signing of the Kigali Amendment, under which we’ve committed to reducing our HFC bulk imports by 85 per cent by 2036. Replacing the HFCs in many cases are either flammable refrigerants, such as hydrocarbons – used in fridges, vending machines and supermarket display cases – or “mildly flammable” synthetic refrigerants, such as R32, now used in many split system air conditioners and increasingly in other kit. Unfortunately, not all parts of our industry have the skills and knowledge to work safely with these gases. And that brings risks. Incidents such as the Rochester incident in Victoria, where two unqualified men died after an explosion involving flammable refrigerants, have signalled the need for better and more up-to-date training. To help address the situation, AIRAH has released an online, updated version of its Flammable Refrigerants Safety Guide. The resource – developed by independent organisations and stakeholders with support from the Department of the Environment and Energy – can help refrigeration technicians, apprentices and other stakeholders understand the range of skills and knowledge required to work safely with flammable refrigerants.

AIRAH has been raising awareness about the switch to flammable low-global-warming-potential (lowGWP) synthetic and natural refrigerants – and the need for industry professionals to be fully aware of the equipment that uses them, and the risks associated. “Many HVAC&R professionals are accustomed to working with the non-flammable refrigerants that were widely used in the past,” says AIRAH CEO Tony Gleeson, M.AIRAH. “We need to ensure that, as the use of alternative refrigerants picks up, our industry is properly equipped to work safely, efficiently and professionally with any refrigerant they encounter. And that’s where the Flammable Refrigerants Safety Guide has a crucial role to play.” The guide was originally published in 2013 in hard copy form. Over the past five years more than 700 people have received training at free seminars around Australia. But AIRAH also recognised the need to explore more innovative ways of delivering the information. “The face-to-face delivery model had its limits, so rather than them coming to us, we’re taking it to them,” says AIRAH’s Phil Wilkinson, F.AIRAH. “The new online format allows people to access the resource whenever they have time. We’ve broken the material down into ‘smoko-sized’ chunks of around 20 minutes, and users can leave it and pick it back up to make it as flexible as possible.”

24 | HVAC&R Nation | www.airah.org.au/nation | March 2019

The Flammable Refrigerants Safety Guide – Online Resource covers:  About flammable refrigerants  M anaging refrigerant flammability risk  H azardous areas and temporary flammable zones  Design rules for flammable refrigerants  I nstallation rules for flammable refrigerants  System conversion rules  M aintenance with flammable refrigerants  Handling flammable refrigerants. To access the resource, go to www.pointsbuild.com.au/airah/flammablerefrigerants-safety-guide-online-resource

AIRAH News

COOLEST CONFERENCE EVER Interest in refrigeration is at an all-time high, judging from the response to AIRAH’s Refrigeration 2019 conference.

Refrigeration 2019 March 25–26 • Melbourne

Four international keynote speakers, more than 30 expert speakers, and over 100 early registrations – AIRAH’s Refrigeration 2019 conference is shaping up to be the biggest running of the event so far. It will be held at Melbourne’s Marvel Stadium from March 25–26, and there is still time to get your ticket.

And finally, Dutch refrigeration expert Jan Gerritsen will share a case study on the use of CO2 in mid-sized refrigeration systems, traditionally the grey area between commercial (HFC) and industrial (ammonia) refrigeration.

“AIRAH is thrilled to be able to offer a comprehensive program for Refrigeration 2019,” says AIRAH CEO Tony Gleeson, M.AIRAH. “We are poised at a critical moment in HVAC&R, and perhaps especially in refrigeration.”

Other speakers will address issues as diverse as HFC-free supermarkets, recent developments in desiccant technology, indirect evaporative air cooling, using data variation in testing refrigeration system performance, central NH3 refrigeration systems with dry expansion, and fire engineering in refrigerated cold storage occupancies.

In line with this, Germany’s Professor Dr Michael Kauffeld will talk about the HFC phase-down and what comes next. Since 2002, Kauffeld has been a professor for refrigeration at the Karlsruhe University of Applied Sciences, where he conducts research on natural refrigerants, mini-channel heat exchangers and ice slurry. From Colorado’s Rocky Mountain Institute comes Iain Campbell, who will discuss the Global Cooling Prize. Launched last November, the prize tasks designers with inventing a room air conditioner for a typical tropical or sub-tropical home that consumes five times less grid-supplied electricity, per unit of cooling, than a typical unit in operation today. A total of US$ 3 million in prize money is on offer. Andrew Pansulla is the global technical service engineer for Chemours Refrigerants. Over the past five years with Chemours/DuPont, he has worked on several different projects around refrigerant development. He’ll present case studies on HFO refrigerants from North America and Europe.

The foremost resource EDITION 05 EDITION 05

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The conference will also include two extra group activities. One will be a contractors’ panel session, the other a refrigerated warehouse case study and workshop. “This is the most comprehensive refrigeration conference AIRAH has put together in the past decade,” says AIRAH’s professional development manager Brendan Pejkovic. “Anyone who attends this conference is bound to come away informed and inspired.” n To register or to find out more about Refrigeration 2019, go to www.airah.org.au/conferences

Thanks to our sponsors Major sponsor: n Heatcraft / Supporting sponsor: n A-Gas

ONE STOP HVAC SOLUTIONS WATER • AIR • TEMPERATURE HUMIDITY • PRESSURE Contact us for full specs and data sheet

Australian Refrigeration and Air-conditioning Volumes 1 and 2 AIRAH is delighted to bring one of Australia’s foremost resources for training in the refrigeration and air conditioning industry to the education sector: Australian Refrigeration and Air-conditioning, Volumes 1 and 2, authored by Graham Boyle, F.AIRAH. 8 Hope St, Melrose Park, NSW 2114

(02) 9804 6366

sales@regulatoraustralia.com.au

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CC-HV&R-003

The completely revised fifth editions have brought a new dimension to this highly regarded resource, with a new full-colour format, hundreds of updated and upgraded images and improved text, which make for easier reading and understanding. For more information, go to www.airah.org.au/ARAC

March 2019 | www.airah.org.au/nation | HVAC&R Nation | 25

Around the Nation 1

5 2013

Handbook AIRAH Technical

(6)

Handbook AIRAH Technical

Heat

2013

hrough system or over the fan. ioning fan draw-t it passes through the airstream as gain from air condit heat gained by

An important system humidity temperature and and the internal within the activity of the people affect the temperature health according to the and sensible heat gains of a building vary on gender, age latent heat. The from the occupants sensible heat and people also depend Heat emissions emissions from heat emission comprises in the space. Heat conditions. Occupant affect the humidity design use. the latent gains normalised for space, whereas Table have been in the following and the values

Heat Gain from

Room Dry Bulb Degree of Activity

heat gain that should

Central station

Sens

Lat 21

28 42

Sens

Lat

Sens 50

Seated at rest Seated, very light work

Seated, standing walking slowly

60 70

90 98

105

70 120

105

100

115

135

165

150

140

125

110

125

156

188

172

170

155

130

145

190

110

220

204

242

170

188

286

276

260

154

Sedentary work Light bench work Moderate dancing Walking, 1.5 m/s

298

132

Heavy work

144

are Note: Values given

heat gain in watts.

heat gain (W).

Sens = Sensible

1600

400 gain (W)

Lat = Latent heat

DA09 Load Source: AIRAH

500

Estimation.

600

Fan motor in conditioned space or air

800 1000

7.6

7.9

13.5

H OK IARL A A ANDBO H NIC stream

(5)

1200

1400

1600

1800

2000

12.7

21.4

15.3

25.7

18.4

30.6

21.8

36.1

25.2

41.6

AIRAH Technical Handbook ©

Masonry walls

Concrete, dense, with indoor plaster

1 2 3 4

Overall heat transfe r

Construction

Resistance, R (m2. K/W)

1. Outdoor air film 2. 100 mm concrete (2400 kg/m³) 3. 20 mm cement:sand (1:4) plaster 4. Indoor air film

0.03 0.037

Concrete Block (200mm) indoor plaster

25 0

0.256

8.3

13.1 15.6 18.0

1. Outdoor air film 2. 110 mm brickwork 3. 50 mm airspace 4. 110 mm brickwork 5. 20 mm cement:sand 6. Indoor air·film

150

Cavity Concrete Block (100mm) indoor plaster

0.311

0.145 0.16 0.145

Total resistance, R = T U = 1/R = T Total resistance, R = T U = 1/R = T

25 0

2.5 W/m².K

1. Outdoor air film 2. 90 mm hollow concrete

0.04

1 2 3 456

Adobe

tute tralian Insti The Aus AIRAH

WITHOUT PLASTER

25 0

0.83

1.2 W/m².K

1. Outdoor air film 2. 300 mm adobe block

0.04

3. Indoor air film

1.6 W/m².K

0 211

0.12 0.589 1.7 W/m².K

ting (Inc) and Hea

ning Conditio Total resistance, R = ation, Air U = 1/R = of Refriger

0 300

0.24 Total resistance, R = T U = 1/R = T

0.6

0 211

0.116 0.16 0.116 0.037

Total resistance, R = T U = 1/R = T

0 192

0.403

block* 3. 50 mm airspace 4. 90 mm hollow concrete block* 5. 20 mm cement:sand (1:4) plaster 6. Indoor air film

0 192

N5 EDITIO 0.637

0 211

0.406 2.4 W/m².K

Total resistance, R = T U = 1/R = T

3 4

3.2 W/m².K

0.037

0.03 0.219 0.037 0.12

Total resistance, R = T U = 1/R = T

0.15

0.12

2013

Capacitance, C (kJ/m2. K)

WITHOUT PLASTER 0 20

0.12

(1:4) plaster

0.12

0.40 2.5 W/m².K

1.7 W/m².K

FORMALDEHYDE IN

CAVITY Total resistance, R = T U = 1/R = T

Resistance, R (m2. K/W)

1. Outdoor air film 2. 190 mm hollow

0.219 4.6 W/m².K 0.03 0.011

0.03

WITHOUT PLASTER

WITH PLASTER, UREA

AIRAH Technical Handbook ©

coefficients (u)

concrete block* 3. 20 mm cement:sand (1:4) plaster 4. Indoor air film

3.9 W/m².K

Total resistance, R = T U = 1/R = T 1. Outdoor air film 2. 12.5 mm ceramic tiles 3. 100 mm lightweight concrete (scoria, 1900 kg/m³) 4. Indoor air film

3 4

3 4 5 6

6.0

9.0 11.0

Construction

0 210

0.12

Total resistance, R = T U = 1/R = T

1 2

Masonry walls

Capacitance, C (kJ/m2. K)

0.069

WITHOUT PLASTER

Cavity brick with indoor plaster

4.9

11.7

19.3

coefficients (u)

Total resistance, R = T U = 1/R = T

Concrete, (Scoria), with ceramic tiles

1 2

values for bearing heat gain, typical apparatus room. (1) Exclude from are dissipated in losses, etc., which + velocity pressure = fan static pressure is approximately fan total pressure (2) Fan total pressure be calculated. Below 6m/s the at fan discharge. total pressure should Above 6m/s the = to fan static. assumed (3) 70% fan efficiency

TECH

2013

Overall heat transfe r

3.9

8.4

assumed (4) 50% fan efficiency assumed and drive efficiency (5) 80% motor is an addition to systems, this heat Heat. (6) For Draw-through and is added to the Room Sensible the supply air gain heat is added to systems this fan Sensible Heat times For Blow-through Heat, use the Room Heat. the Grand Total to the Grand Total listed and add the percentage

Notes:

2.9

6.8

7.5

10.5

17.8

5.4

14.0

5.6

1.8

4.0

9.1 11.4

4.0

5.6

9.5

0.9

2.5

6.8

3.2

4.6

1.2

4.2

2.6

3.6

6.0

2.0

1.9

2.6

4.5

300

1.1

1.6

2.6

200

0.5

0.7

1.2

100

15.0

21.0

35.3

2000

13.0

17.1

30.3

1800

7.1

10.9

15.0

25.3

5.2

9.0

12.4

20.9

1400

4.2

7.3

10.2

17.4

1200

3.3

7.1 10.1

16.7

6.1

8.4

14.3

1000

2.5

5.7

12.0

4.6

5.5

10.7

800

stream

Walking, seated standing, walking slowly

600

Fan Motor not in conditioned space or air

1.5

4.6

9.7

3.2

4.0

7.5

3.3

7.8

2.4

3.5

6.0

500

2.1

5.8

2.0

0.7

1.0

3.5

1.5

2.8

4.8

(1)

1.7

0.8

2.1

3.5

400

14 K

10 K

6K Sensible Heat

0.4

(4)

– Temperature difference Air) (Room - Supply

Air)

14 K

1.2

2.0

300

Unitary system

(3)

(Room - Supply

Percent of Room 0.6

1.0

200

Lat

system

10 K

Pa (2)

100

Sens

Lat

– Temperature difference

Fan total pressure

Fan location

20°C

22°C

24°C

26°C

28°C

Temperature

the design is the

be considered in

People

1.87

0.5 W/m².K

*This airspace

has been considered

not ventilated.

EFFICIENCY INCENTIVE FOR NSW

Households and small businesses in New South Wales could receive discounts of up to $1,000 when they install an energy-efficient air conditioning unit. The program is part of the Climate Change Fund initiative and is designed to encourage people to buy high-efficiency units. “The program is expected to return a state-wide power bill saving of around $20 million and reduce the generation load by 90,000 megawatt hours,” says Environment Minister Gabrielle Upton. A discount of between $200–1,000 off the installation price is available when households or small businesses buy a high-efficiency air conditioner through an approved installer. The systems can be new or replacement and must meet the eligibility criteria. Upton says they are expecting 15,000 households and small businesses to have done this by May 2020. Go to www.nsw.gov.au/news-and-events/ news/save-up-to-1000-on-a-new-air-conditioner n

HAPPY BIRTHDAY AIREPURE

Leading national air filtration company Airepure Australia recently celebrated 20 years of operation. To commemorate the milestone, the company has put together a timeline highlighting significant projects and moments over the years. It’s on the website and well worth a look to see how the company has grown – as has the whole industry in Australia. The company was founded in December 1998 by three friends and colleagues: Peter Wingfield, James (Jim) McIntosh and Roger Van Oosten, M.AIRAH. From humble beginnings – using one of their son’s bedrooms as an office space – Airepure has steadily grown to offer a range of core particulate and gaseous filtration products, stocked and supported nationally. These days the team also offers relevant, value-add support services such as product installation, routine maintenance and NATA-accredited onsite testing and certification.

“We consistently invest in resources to provide our clients with a reliable support team,” says Airepure CEO Roger Van Oosten. “This includes in-house engineering, dedicated product/project specialists, knowledgeable technical sales and experienced NATA-certified field service technicians.” Go to www.airepure.com.au n

TRAINING UNDER REVIEW

The Australian Industry and Skills Committee is currently reviewing the Electrotechnology Training Package – the basis for the certificate and diploma courses in refrigeration and air conditioning taught in TAFEs and other registered training organisations around Australia. A technical advisory committee (TAC) was formed last year to review three qualifications, review 52 associated units of competency, and develop up to two new units of competency to provide skills in the area of handling A2 (flammable) refrigerants. Since the start of this year, the TAC has been preparing draft materials and releasing them for review. The third and fourth phases of the project are taking place in March and April. The review is expected to be completed in June. Go to www.australianindustrystandards.org.au/projects n

DARE TO DISRUPT!

Energy management and automation specialist Schneider Electric is holding a free Innovation Day on Tuesday, April 2 at the Hilton Sydney. This will be followed by Expert Learning Sessions on Wednesday, April 3. “Innovation Day 2019 is Schneider Electric’s premier IT, data centre and built environment technology event experience in Australia” says the company. The event gives attendees the chance to learn from industry leaders and find out about cutting-edge innovation for computing, hybrid IT, IoT, software and services that “transform the world of data centres in the cloud and at the edge”.

26 | HVAC&R Nation | www.airah.org.au/nation | March 2019

It’s an opportunity to exchange ideas and best practices to help unlock efficiency for segments such as cloud and service providers, infrastructure, mining, retail, education and healthcare. Attendees will explore the Innovation Hub marketplace and get hands-on with the latest technologies. They will also hear real-life testimonials from leading brands on how they’re leveraging market trends to grow their business. Go to www.schneider-electric.com.au/en/work/ events/innovation-summit-2019.jsp n

UPDATING THE AIRAH BIBLE

AIRAH is embarking on a review of its Technical Handbook. The Handbook is a compendium of valuable information for all things HVAC&R and is considered by many to be a bible of HVAC&R design. Exclusively available to AIRAH members, it contains the “best of the best” of the Institute’s technical publications. It covers design data, heat transfer, thermal properties and insulation, air distribution systems, pipe systems, heating, ventilation and air conditioning, sustainability, electrical, energy and metering, noise and vibration and refrigeration data. Currently in its fifth edition, the updated version will include new technology, data and areas of interest. Old material that is no longer relevant will also be removed. And AIRAH will be looking closely at the Handbook’s format, too. “The AIRAH Technical Handbook is a very important resource for AIRAH as an organisation, but also for the industry,” says the Institute’s Phil Wilkinson, F.AIRAH. “For AIRAH, the Handbook is at the heart of what we do – robust, technical information related to HVAC&R. “For the industry as a whole and for the individuals working in it, the Handbook is an absolutely essential day-to-day tool.” The work ties in with AIRAH’s centenary, to be celebrated in 2020. n

Around the Nation 6

SKILLS SUPPORT FROM HEATCRAFT

WorldSkills Australia (WSA) partner Heatcraft has announced its major sponsorship of the Refrigeration category for both the 2019 round of regional competitions and the 2020 WSA National Refrigeration Competition. It marks a 23-year association between Heatcraft and WSA. “This is a long-established affiliation that aligns firmly with our core business and values, being a heritage of excellence in refrigeration and skill development,” says Heatcraft’s acting vice president and general manager Paul Campbell. “We are proud to continue to support and celebrate our industry’s future tradespeople through WorldSkills Australia.” Heatcraft also congratulated the 2018 WSA Refrigeration and Air Conditioning national champions Patrick Brennan, gold medallist (Tony Stephens Refrigeration, Qld) and Chris McNally, silver medallist (Freezetec, Qld). As reported in the February issue of HVAC&R Nation, Patrick is now training with the goal of qualifying for the Skillaroos Team that will compete at the 45th WorldSkills International Competition in Kazan, Russia. For further information on WorldSkills Australia or to register to compete, visit www.worldskills.org.au n

BETTER ACCESS TO STANDARDS

Standards Australia will look to improve access to standards after an arbitration decision that SAI Global will no longer have exclusive distribution rights. Chairman Richard Brooks (pictured) describes the development as an exciting step towards delivering greater value and improving access. “As the world of publishing changes, we must also change to continue our strong, positive contribution to the community and empower those who use our content,” he says. Exactly what this means for pricing of the standards remains to be seen. But Brooks’ comments certainly suggest that the format of the standards will be reviewed. Currently they are provided only in hard copy and in PDF, and many feel there should be more up-todate and user-friendly ways of accessing the information.

Standards Australia says it is exploring additional distribution channels as the first stage of its transition. The second stage will involve consultation with stakeholders to determine how to make the standards easier to access. Standards Australia will provide more details about this consultation over the coming months. n

“We are excited to welcome Peter,” says Sudevan Nallathamby, Managing Director, Pacific HVAC Engineering. “His leadership, experience and knowledge of the HVAC industry will be beneficial to all areas of our business, predominately our clients and team. Working alongside general manager Gavin Dunn (above left) with a team consisting of industry experts such as Frank Verde, Thida Kao, Bharat Tejpal, Michael Fazzalaro, Andrew Twisse, Affil.AIRAH, and Charles McKenzie, M.AIRAH, just to name a few, the combination of ventilation and major HVAC equipment experience and expertise reinforces that we provide the best packaged solutions in the industry.” Pacific HVAC Engineering manufacture and distribute specialised HVAC equipment to meet the ventilation equipment needs of customers in mining, manufacturing, construction and agriculture as well as retail end-users. Products are built in facilities in Melbourne, Sydney and Auckland under a companywide and audited quality system to ISO9001. Go to www.pacifichvac.com n

LOOK TO THE STARS

The Australian government is revising energy efficiency regulations for air conditioners up to 65kW in capacity.

Unlike the current rating system – which tests only at 35°C for cooling and 7°C for heating – SEER assesses efficiency across a range of temperatures, and then weights this against a climate file for a given location. The tests are done at both full and part loads and are extrapolated into a curve of performance.

GIBSON GETS GM GIG

Pacific HVAC Engineering has appointed Peter Gibson (above right) to the position of general manager. He brings over 25 years’ experience in the HVAC industry in both ventilation and chilled water products to the team.

The first major change is the introduction of a more sophisticated and accurate Seasonal Energy Efficiency Ratio Standard (SEER).

The adoption of the SEER standard will be supported by the replacement of the existing energy rating label with a Zoned Energy Rating Label (shown above). This shows the device’s energy efficiency and forecast energy consumption across three climate zones: hot, average and cold. It is proposed that the SEER rating and Zoned Energy Rating Label would be mandatory from April 1, 2020. New Zealand will adopt the same changes into its regulations, thereby aligning Australian and New Zealand Minimum Energy Performance Standards (MEPS). n

ARC PROMOTES FULL LICENCES

As part of its recent campaign, the Australian Refrigeration Council (ARC) released a video to educate consumers about different licence types, and encourage them to find and use fully licensed air conditioning technicians. The video seeks to raise awareness that fully licensed (or Certificate III) technicians are qualified to handle the complete range of tasks related to air conditioners. This includes installation, servicing, diagnostics and repair. Technicians with a restricted (or Certificate II) licence, are only permitted to install air conditioners – and in fact only single-head split system air conditioners of less than 18kW. Consumers who click on a link are taken to the ARC’s business search facility. Here they can enter their postcode and bring up a list of fully licensed technicians operating in their area. n

March 2019 | www.airah.org.au/nation | HVAC&R Nation | 27

Cool Tech

CORE CAPACITY

“The Core has something for everyone.” The Core links the altimeter and barometer functions, and calculates long-term pressure trends to provide a more accurate reading. The watch will hold an altitude log for up to seven days, so you can keep track of where you’ve been.

Anyone with a yen for outdoor sports such as mountain climbing, hiking, running or skiing would find the Suunto Core watch pretty damn useful.

Some watches just tell time. Here’s one that does so much more.

“This is the perfect watch or wrist computer for committed outdoor hikers, climbers and skiers, as well as anyone who works on the water or enjoys water sports,” says Jennifer Frazier of Runnerclick.com. “You can wear this watch every day all day and you will be glad it’s there with you.”

Let’s just check the features. Altimeter, barometer, thermometer, compass and weather info? Check.

Let’s face it: with the time everywhere these days – your phone, tablet and PC, for starters – most of us don’t actually need to wear a watch. Many don’t.

Storm alarm, sunrise/ sunset data for 400 global locations, depth meter for snorkelling? Yep, got that covered.

Others of us feel a bit weird not to have constant access to a horological wrist instrument (aka wristwatch).

RRP is about $350 from Australian retailers. n

There’s also a multilingual menu, stopwatch, three alarms, userreplaceable battery, and some nifty graphs on offer.

And then there’s another group that has particular demands of their watch, so the more functionality that can be packed into a device, the better.

“The Suunto Core is the most fully featured altimeter watch we tested,” says Outdoor Gear Lab.

Time for adventure with the Suunto Core.

BEST PRACTICE

HVAC Hygiene H VAC

TIN G TE OF AND HEA N INS TITU DIT ION ING TRA LIA CON THE AUS TIO N, AIR ERA REFRIG

1.8.4.

H VAC H YGIENE INES PRACT ICE GUIDEL AIR AH BEST H VAC H YGIENE sysTEM hygiEnE AccEpTABLE TABLE 2.3 MiniMuM t Classification. HVAC system (See 1.5)

or Componen HVAC System (See 1.6)

Air intakes and

general use systems

exhausts

level Minimum hygiene (See Table 2.1)

Clean

Moderate

Light

Evaporative coolers

Clean

AHU

Clean

– moisture Supply system producing equipment exhausts Air intakes and or Supply air system, or Return air system, Outside air system

Clean Light Pre filtration – – Clean Post Filtration Clean No Filtration – Moderate

Exhaust air system Non-ducted refrigerated

a/c

Clean

Evaporative coolers

have and the like may g operating theatres ng/processin such as clean rooms, bodies, manufacturi use applications other governing certain HVAC special hygiene determined by be noted that of HVAC Note: It should s for higher levels specific requirement and the like. and operators System owners activities, regulations within HVAC systems. are familiar with the regulatory that they component should ensure in which they operate. the jurisdiction ion in or on a system requirements of through visual If fungal contaminat

not readily identifiable be taken for is suspected, but should surface samples taking procedures for assessment, then Recommended are ion assessment laboratory analysis. for fungal contaminat surface samples D. detailed in Appendix by t has been confirmed,be , to If a system or componen or analytical assessment system or visual observation ed then the affected mould contaminat should be decontaminated. ts affected componen mould a system of or remediation if a thorough Decontamination only be undertaken undertaken and system should been has system the samples. assessment of based on limited not an assessment

mould or system due to ation of a HVAC activity that is Note: Decontamin n is a specialised State and Territory microbial contaminatio of this Guideline. s for the outside the scope have specific requirement n governments may contaminatio control of microbial reporting and

1.10. Be st pra damage hygiene ctice 2.5.7. Water and components subjected to surfaces to determine salvage All HVAC system manage In should be evaluated water damage restoration activity. ment for success of any ability and likely should be investigated1.10.1.

be sent to a analysis need to assessment, and Samples for fungal for testing and mycological laboratory growth site. Details of sample a fungal be analysis should identification as assessment and removal, transport, testing laboratory. the coordinated with be helpful to identification may Fungal species from the indoor there is a shift in determine whether This is needed concentration. . Clear to the outdoor a proper risk assessment owner and order to perform between the building in order communication be established should the HVAC cleaner level following acceptable fungal to determine an of the HVAC system. cleaning and remediation ated and cleaned 3. has been decontamin verified, see Section Once the system level should be the system hygiene

www.airah.org.au

AIR AH

Princip

BES T

PRACTIC

E GUI DEL

les

AIR AH

or lining materials HVAC insulation When internal traces of the deteriorated and within the system are found to be product found should be insulation or lining deteriorated surfaces of the system ts components, the affected componen restored and the system inspected and the entire should be cleaned cleaned as required. ts and for contaminan

damage

g or renovation 2.5.9. Buildin contamination t category

contaminan of subject to this Any HVAC system to determine the hygiene level ts found to have should be evaluated system or componen debris greater the system. Any dust and particulate be cleaned. accumulated general 2.3 should d, specified in Table ion encountere than the levels the type of contaminat Depending on

www.aira h.org

BES T

PRACTIC

E GUI DEL INE

S H VAC

1.11. HV AC sta and reg ndards ulations

2.2. Ac cess for inspe ction

listed in system hygiene Table 2.1, inspector determ provide ine the HVAC with the minim if cleaning is requir four hygien e levels ed when to in Table um acceptable assess 2.3. hygiene standards ed against as listed

Hygiene

Level

1. Clean 2. Light

3. Mode rate

4. Heavy

.au www.aira h.org

TABLE

Description

2.1 DEFI NITIO

Access is requir ed in order of all comp to onents internal and a represinspect the intern surfac 1.6.12. AS/NZ es of the HVAC entative portio al surfaces n of the systems S 3666 provision of access parts 1 and 2 bothas defined in for maint enance. require adequ ate Inspections and

N OF HYG

IENE LEVE

No visible LS dust, debris or other contam Only slightl ination. to no variatiy visible layer ons in densit of fine gener al dust Component y. consistent surface over the remains component visible benea surface th the fine of gener with little layer of al dust Component with varyin dust. surface g densit is still visible y and limited High levels in some areas of areas of beneath accumulated other contam visible dust, the fine debris fine debris ination dust but that cover , fibres or any . Component in isolate the comp d sectio surface ns may onent. is barely not be. if not at all visible beneath the contam ination. Refere Visible levels

nce image

.au

H YGI ENE

System and asseinspection ssment

2.1. Hy giene levels de The descri fined ptions

oration or 2.5.5. Deteri es non-porous surfac

s oration of porou 2.5.6. Deteri linings surfaces and

INE S

1.10.2. Record s

Best practi building ce HVAC hygien and system e mana operation gement requires and maint documentati system on includ good enanc drawings system showing e manuals, accuraing up to date commission access points te as install ing data. ed and origin The buildi al conductedng owner should with record HVAC Hygiene maintain record Inspection s of s of any system cleaning Repor ts any hygien along inspections. e verification or remedial works and carried Maintaining profile of any out as a these a buildi HVAC hygien ng or system records buildsresult of such up a hygien e mana gement. over time that e assists in In additi on, assessmentsany reports relating or any energ to indoo also be retained r air qualit y with these management y reports records. should

insulation growth. Best practi particular any internal logging or fungal through ce HVAC hygien evidence of water salvageable the manageme implementa e management ts or ducts deemed tion of a can nt practi Any system componencleaned and free from microbial few relativ be achieved ces. • Filter ely simple logged insulation should be thoroughly maintenanc affected or water against e – Filters growth. Any water replaced. dust be be regula and particulatesare the prima The prima products should ry defen ry design . System on within the accord rly inspected ce 1668.2 which standa filters and ance due to condensati of the deals with rds for HVAC and AIRAH with the requir maintained, at should outdoor Any water damage be assessed and the cause systems ventila to air, least in ements DA19 on are AS system and AS/NZ location of intake tion requir system also needs of AS/NZ HVAC&R mitigated. assessment S 3666.1 identified and S 3666.2 s and discha ements (minim maint filter condensation which deals um to be specification should includ enance. The rges, exhau AS/NZS initial with micro structure) need is optim e 1668.1 details (pipes, building al for the s to determine a review of the bial controst rates) any HVAC control Any water leaks undertaking type, if HVAC system filter applic requir l. associated filter repaired prior to ation asbestos , includ with mechements for fire identified and likely contarating, system system due to work. ing airflow The prima anical ventila and smoke ation of a HVAC is outside the cleaning or restoration and pressuthe filter of install minant profile ry stand Note: Decontamin n is a specialised activity that tion system ation and maint and re, ard for the enance contaminatio information s. maintenanc the general is AS/NZ HVAC system control qualit on the e. Comp scope of this Guideline. S 3666.2 s filters is of rehensive y are found . Its prima operation and provided selection and sp. in buildimicrobiological heat or smoke to ry containing materials down, applic in subjected • focus conta ts AIRAH ng asbestos Mana ation likely water and minants is the componen focuses DA15. geme of air integrity and should be shut If potentially friable such on gener All HVAC system air is critica to determine their andnt of moisture system, the system al HVAC handling system as Legionella all firel for be removed by within a HVAC In particular should be evaluated hygiene. minimising – moisture material should s but it The stand conta restoration activity. mounted heaters manageme insulation minat also any of the ard alternative the asbestos containing ion success poten duct and smoke contro covering the system removalists and and all electric accordance s or comp any spills, leakstial for fungal nt in maint includes the insulation licensed asbestos smoke dampers l features onents for fitness for purpose inspec or wettin in its place. This 1851. if it is of HVAC enance of the of ASted should as soon g AS/NZS electric heaters should be assessed maintenance protocols products installed fire systems as is practi be dried out of HVAC • Inspec duct mounted 1668.1 and is AS 1851. and 2 are called , AS1668.2 with the survey and cable. board surrounding withstand and assess totion and asbestos. unable be period ment – referenced up in the Buildin AS/NZS 3666 verified to contain ically ts or surfaces deemed with are beyond All part 1 and Any componen out in the recom inspected and HVAC system territories standards and g Code of Austra cleaning and restorationsurfaces part should be carried of Practice s should are mand mendations assessed lia as prima removal work proper mechanical be replaced. All• porous may be of Australia. Apart Clean, restor atory National Code of this Guidein accordance Note: All asbestos ry individ be evaluated NOHSC:2002 – from buildi in all states e and salvage and should smoke damage should safety legisla ual state or comp cleaning all other applicable accordance with line. and or ng specifi s. of Asbestos and theonents verify hygiene subjected to fire following and requirement that should tion and regula c occupationalegislation there have cleaning replaced level – once for the Safe Removal odour retention and restor been identi government regulations l health should be systems for friability and operation be complied tions relating state and local fied as ation assessed as friableimmediately to the to HVAC and with and maint ion has including work should contaminated, to impart odours process. Any areas enance. as they are releva hygiene materials likely of the restor be under verifying Any materials and contaminat be The ed asbestos resurfaced. all nt or taken system. the cleanl select to both Once system should • Good should be replaced. iness the entire HVAC verified. by AS 1324ion and applic housekeepin supply air stream been removed level should be ation of due to heat a comm g – HVAC e damage system hygiene filtration and minimum general on sense as asbestos-fre cleaned and the hygiene surface exhibiting t filters of condition labelled applic gener be ventila appro componen Any ation requir are covere ts should HEPA filters an acceptable ating activit residual tion ach to limitin also requir register updated. be restored to respogiven The componen d es ements are classifi systems are specifi g conta materials/asbestos be nding to any ies within exposure should on should of a ed in AS minant to any and the hazardous ed in AS for the surfaces Even It is not internal unusual building and 4260. everyd or replaced. Considerati on the 1668.2. intend remaindisinfe promp conta ay may highly that be ed that mination tly Guideline residue cantasks such as smoke residue the event. types of smoke cting)n, food affectedcleaning mandatoryconflict with therecommendations prepa copyin of the (vacuu the system. Certainto eventualand deterioratio beration and docum ming, of this lead unacceptabg may can also be inadve Commonwestandards or requirements corrosive and 12 ent printin rtently le conta or Some smoke residues smoke alth, State with the requir of any of these g by smoke, heatminants into introducing component surface. or Territo ements components are to surfaces affected of any the HVAC ry regula of non-porous toxic. Any metal or odours to competent persons tion. system. When the surface be evaluated by or effective. contributing particulates residue should affect the quality will be achievable deteriorated and or otherwise adversely restoration should determine if restoration the air stream, from fire suppression through the system, of all downstream 2.5.7. ts affected by water of the air moving cleaning Any componen accordance with and inspection/ be assessed in be performed activities should out as required. components carried

If contaminat If HVAC system be taken and analysed. the samples should ion is confirmed suspected then asbestos contaminat ated by competent the presence of be decontamin entire system should persons.

smoke 2.5.8. Fire and

Light

a/c Non-ducted refrigerated

ygiene HVAC H

of moisture presence and source system should In particular the in the mould growth supporting any prevented. be identified and World is covered in the more generally Air Mould in buildings (WHO) Guidelines for Indoor n Health Organisatio and Mould. Quality, Dampness

1.9. HV AC restor ation

2.5.4. Asbestos dust or fibres is ion by asbestos

Clean

Moderate Pre Filtration – – Light Post Filtration Light No Filtration –

or Supply air system, or Return air system, Outside air system Exhaust air system

special use systems

sTAnDArDs

Clean

AHU – moisture producing Supply system equipment

INES PRACT ICE GUIDEL AIR AH BEST

BEST TICE H YGIAC ENE PR DELINES

GUI Unu sua contam l ination eve

HVAC system any unusu s and comp onents should any renov al contaminat be inspec ion event events are ation/building ted after such as activit a fire assessed in accord ies. Unusual contaor flood or ance with 2.5 of this mination Guideline. Where HVAC adequately systems or comp cleaned they shouldonents canno be repair t be ed or replac ed.

GUIDELINES

s for the

four define

d hygien

e levels

are provid

ed in Appen

dix F.

www.airah.org.au

AIRAH’s HVAC Hygiene Best Practice Guidelines are available to purchase in hard copy. n Establishes the criteria for evaluating the internal cleanliness of HVAC system components n Clearly determines when cleaning is required, according to the building use n Describes the components of HVAC systems to be evaluated n Describes the types of contamination likely to be encountered and includes for post fire and flood damage assessments n Specifies minimum inspection frequencies for various HVAC systems and components for scheduled maintenance programs

Purchase online at www.airah.org.au/store 28 | HVAC&R Nation | www.airah.org.au/nation | March 2019

Smoko with . . .

ger. Chicken chilli strips or a ban

Name: Jesse St John Company : ColdZap Refrige

ration and Airconditioning

Occupation: Refrigeration

mechanic/technician

Favourite smoko snack?

. . I’m skinning tins and wit When I’m not working . se. or working around the hou

h my mates

industry do you work in? What par t of the HVAC &R er all grounds. cov but C HVA and on refrigerati I work mostly commercial &R industry? ut working in the HVAC What's the bes t thing abo ction after isfa sat The ha, just kidding. Shit stirring apprentices. Ha rk. wo gs making thin completing a quality job and years. d in the industry? Nine How long have you worke Favourite tool? Digital gau

ges.

do HVAC &R industry, what If you didn't work in the carpentry. or ing doing? Maybe plumb you think you would be tion of HVAC &R Nation? What's your favourite sec der of photos) (Ed – Jesse is a regular sen Got ta be The Lighter Side! Drink of choice? Any Favourite quote or saying

? Strew th almighty!

March 2019 | www.airah.org.au/nation | HVAC&R Nation | 29

The Lighter Side This month’s Lighter Side brought to you by:

The commercial and industrial air conditioning specialists across Australia

www.apacair.com.au 1 WINNER

OT A FAN OF THIS INSTALL N“Thought you may be interested to see this extraction system option that a restaurant owner has decided to use,” says Gavin from Adelaide. “Although it’s not being used for the kitchen extraction, the pictures tell the story.” n

HIS IMMORTAL COIL T“What can go wrong then?” says Rene. n

IE ME UP, TIE ME DOWN TStrap yourselves in (boom boom) for an ongoing series of tie-down installs.

This first one was screwed to the weatherboards and was falling off the wall, hence the extra support. Thanks to Nigel in Bendigo for the pic. n

IN THE TOWEL TRickHROWING found this beauty at a house in Brisbane. “Mate of a mate installed the fan motor,” he says. “Went back to replace the indoor board less than four months after. Turned it on and heard the fan vibrating its arse off, pulled the lid off to find a surprise! Can't trust anyone.” n

IG DEEP D“Came across this unit that must have been just a little bit hard for the concrete guys to move,” says Teejay from Bathurst. n

HAVE YOU COME ACROSS SOMETHING SCARY, UGLY OR JUST PLAIN FUNNY? If your entry is deemed the monthly winner, a 700ml bottle of Jim Beam will be on its way to your door. Please include a postal address with your entry. Entrants must be 18 or over. Send your hi-res (>500KB) photos to Editor, Mark Vender at mark.vender@airah.org.au

30 | HVAC&R Nation | www.airah.org.au/nation | March 2019

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March 2019 | www.airah.org.au/nation | HVAC&R Nation | 31

CAPACITY RANGE

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VRT SMART (VRT + AIRSIDE CONTROL) HOW DOES VRT SMART WORK? - Individual FCU calculates required capacity based on T, temperature trends - FCU regulates airflow according to load (i.e. variable air volume control) - If load cannot be met through Airside Control, condenser will regulate Te to meet load requirements BENEFITS OF VRT SMART - Better comfort levels for occupants FCU does not turn thermo off Fast response to load change - Improved energy performance across the year

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16.0kW 168kW - TO -