CCME October 2012

Perspective The value of hard data in building performance p62 Photo-feature: Round 2 of Refrigerants Review p30

State-of-the-industry report: Pumps p38

Ducting: Put

News Distech,

www.climatecontrolme.com Daikin acquires Goodman p6

a robot on the Samsung enter partnership p18 Canada: Energised by innovation p46 job! p28

Analysing Saudi energy use p8

Intl panel calls GEA cracks Chiller for safeguarding “Kuwait Challenge� future of CDM p20 p15

Case-in Point: New HVAC pool design solves IAQ issues p64 Plus: Marketplace, Comings&Goings

OCTOBER 2012

Perspective The value of hard data in building performance p62 Photo-feature: Round 2 of Refrigerants Review p30

State-of-the-industry report: Pumps p38

Ducting: Put

News Distech,

www.climatecontrolme.com Daikin acquires Goodman p6

a robot on the Samsung enter partnership p18 Canada: Energised by innovation p46 job! p28

Analysing Saudi energy use p8

Intl panel calls GEA cracks Chiller for safeguarding “Kuwait Challenge” future of CDM p20 p15

Case-in Point: New HVAC pool design solves IAQ issues p64 Plus: Marketplace, Comings&Goings

OCTOBER 2012 SEE US AT THE

MEDIA CENTER, ZABEEL HALL

STAND NO.47

SWEDENING THE PARTNERSHIP The key to Sweden’s success in the HVACR sector lies in its strict regulatory framework, which has encouraged the development and implementation of environmentally friendly and energyefficient products and systems – a model the GCC region could consider emulating.

PUBLICATION LICENSED BY IMPZ

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Vol. 7 No. 10 | October 2012 04 from the editor

Something to chew on

happenings

contents

06 The region 14 At large 24 Marketplace

28 D-Code

Put a robot on the job!

When it comes to cleaning and maintaining an HVAC ductwork system, often the best “person” for the job is a robot, says Billy Prewitt and explains why and how.

30 photo feature The climate In focus

Round 2 of Refrigerants Review saw participation from the world community of stakeholders. The event in pictures.

38 FOCUS Pumping energy

With the construction activity in the region showing signs of life, the pumps market has begun to breathe normally again. Pratibha Umashankar reports.

46 COUNTRY REPORT Canada — energised by innovation

Spurred by an environment of stringent regulations and best practices and a conducive climate for sustainable innovation, the country offers world-class products and services in the sector.

62 PERSPECTIVE

Manage to manage Michael Scriven highlights the value of hard data and how turning it into useful information will become increasingly important.

Spotlight 68 The need to quantify

In Part I or our series on air filtration, Dr Iyad Al-Attar argues that the science of air filtration is driven by its quest for perfection, which is why filter testing is critically important.

52

COVER STORY

SWEDENING

THE PARTNERSHIP The key to Sweden’s success in the HVACR sector lies in its strict regulatory framework, which has encouraged the development and implementation of environmentally friendly and energy-efficient products and systems – a model the GCC region could consider emulating. Pratibha Umashankar gives an overview of the scenario.

64

CASE-IN POINT

New HVAC pool design solves respiratory issues

Oklahoma High School pool’s IAQ has been graded the highest of nearly any pool in the United States at a recent Speedo Championship meet, thanks to a combination of its HVAC system and a Paddock Evacuator system that eliminates chloramines that cause Lifeguard Lung and other respiratory problems, claims Seresco. We bring you the case study.

October 2012

www.climatecontrolme.com

3

from the

editor

Publisher Dominic De Sousa Managing Director & Associate Publisher Frédéric Paillé | fred@cpi-industry.com Editorial Director & Associate Publisher B Surendar | surendar@cpi-industry.com

SOMETHING TO

chew on

COO Nadeem Hood | nadeem@cpidubai.com Contributing Editors Pratibha Umashankar prati@cpi-industry.com Anoop K Menon anoop@cpi-industry.com Business Development Consultant Stephanie McGuinness stephanie@cpi-industry.com

he UAE imports 85% of the food it consumes. This includes temperature-sensitive fruit juices and meat. Considering it is a free trade market, it is well nigh impossible to subsidise some of the commodities, so these products come into the country at a considerable expense.

Since 2007, the UAE has seen its imports bill go up for prepared food products and beverages. It has increased from Dh 8.76 billion to Dh 12.28 billion in 2011.

In view of that, food is a complex, socio-economic issue, involving the onerous task of ensuring food security and, at the same time, keeping a vigilant eye on the costs involved in procuring it.

Against this backdrop, it is quite alarming to note that an estimated 35% of the waste generated in the UAE consists of food that is discarded.

It is a moot point how much of the food wastage takes place owing to weak links in the cold chain during the farm/port-to-the-supermarket stage, as opposed to the waste generated by the consumer.

Hand in hand with strengthening the links is the need for behavioural change and a culture that frowns hard at those that bite more than they can chew, there is no doubt about that.

Food wastage is a crime, period! While the economic ramifications are severe, the environmental impact is no less so. While considerable fossil fuel is expended in transporting the food to the consumer, equally worrying is the decomposing that occurs after food that is wasted is dumped in landfills. The process of decomposition produces methane, which is considered to be 20 times more harmful a greenhouse gas than carbon dioxide.

It is interesting to view the emissions against the backdrop of Round 2 of Refrigerants Review, which concluded on September 25. Among other issues, the conference examined the vexing subject of global warming.

But going back to ‘food crime’, the global figures are equally alarming and evoke a sense of dismay.

According to the Food and Agriculture Organisation (FAO), 1.3 billion tonnes of food are lost or wasted every year. This translates to one third of all the food that is produced in the world for human consumption. Of the 1.3 billion tonnes, 20% is for oilseeds, meat and dairy products and 30% for fish.

According to FAO, 65% of the losses occur at the production, post-harvest and processing stages.

The challenges in front of the cold chain industry are of epic proportions.

Design Genesis Salao | getty@cpi-industry.com Ulysses Galgo | uly@cpi-industry.com Webmaster Troy Maagma | troy@cpidubai.com Database/ Subscriptions Manager Purwanti Srirejeki purwanti@cpi-industry.com Advertising Enquiries Frédéric Paillé: +971 50 7147204 fred@cpi-industry.com Stephanie McGuinness: +971 50 6679359 stephanie@cpi-industry.com USA and Canada Kanika Saxena Director (North America) 25 Kingsbridge Garden Cir Suite 919 Mississauga, ON, Canada L5R 4B1 kanika@cpi-industry.com Tel/fax: +1 905 890 5031 Euro Zone and UK Sicking Industrial Marketing Wilhelm Sicking 45130 Essen - Emmastrasse 44 Tel: +49 (0)201-779861 Fax: +49 (0)201-781741 Andreas Sicking 59872 Freienohl - Kurt-Schumacher-Str. 16 Tel: +49 (0)2903-3385-70 Fax: +49 (0)2903-3385-82 sicking-media@email.de • www.sicking.de China Sean Xiao Hui China Business Media Group Room 403, Block 17, Wuyimingzhu, No 6 Jinshan Road, Fuzhou, Fujian, 350008, China Tel: +86 591 8386 3000

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Perspective The value

Photo-feature: Round of Refrigerants Review 2 p30

of hard data in building

www.climatecontrolm

performance p62 News Daikin acquires Analysing e.com Goodman p6 energy use Saudi Ducting: Put p8 Distech, a robot on the Samsung Intl panel calls GEA by innovation p46 job! cracks enter for safeguardi p28 ng “Kuwait Chiller partnership

State-of-the-indu report: Pumps p38stry

Canada: Energised

Case-in Point: New

HVAC pool design solves

p18

future of CDM

p20

&Goings

SEE US AT THE MEDIA CENTER, ZABEEL HALL

OCTOBER 2012 STAND NO.47

SWEDENING

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PUBLICATION LICENSED BY IMPZ

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The key to Sweden’s success in has encouraged the developm the HVACR sector lies in its strict regulatory framework, which ent efficient products and systems and implementation of environmentally friendly and energy– a model the GCC region could consider emulating.

4

Challenge”

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happenings the region

Doha to hold electricity conference and exhibition

Event expected to attract policy-makers and manufacturers in the power sector

K

AHRAMA, the Qatar General Electricity & Water Corporation, has announced that the 4th Arab Union of Electricity Conference and Exhibition will be held in Doha from January 7 to 9, 2013. The event includes a seminar

on “The Investment Opportunities in the Electrical Industries in the Arab Countries” and the 7th Exhibition of Electrical Industries in the Arab World, which KAHRAMAA will be organising, along with the Energy Section in the Arab

League, in cooperation with Interactive Business Network. The conference, the seminar and the exhibition coincide with the celebration of the 25th anniversary of the establishment of the Arab Union of Electricity, as well as the transfer of chairmanship of the board of directors of the Union from the Tunisian Republic to the State of Qatar, the announcement added. Accordingly, the Arab Ministerial Electricity Council has decided to hold the periodic meeting of its Executive Office during the same period in Doha, such that Arab electricity ministers

will have the opportunity to attend all the above events as well as take part in the Silver Jubilee celebration of the Arab Union of Electricity, KAHRAMAA elaborated.

According to KAHRAMAA, the event is being held at a time of growing interest in the region in developing and upgrading the electricity sector through the application of the latest technologies in electric power production, transportation and distribution, the adoption of policies and strategies relating to alternative and renewable energy and improving the strategic management of electricity

Daikin acquires Goodman

Hopes to expands its geographic reach in North America

D

aikin Industries has announced acquiring Goodman Global Group, with the signing of a definitive agreement on August 29 by Daikin, Goodman, and Goodman’s major shareholder, Hellman & Friedman LLC (H&F).

According to the news release, Daikin will purchase 100% of Goodman’s stock with the total acquisition value pegged at $3.7 billion, and the transaction, pending regulatory approval, is expected to be completed during the fourth quarter of 2012 calendar year.

The announcement said that Goodman has a presence in the ducted-style residential unitary HVAC segment in North America, and Daikin is an HVAC manufacturer offering

6

Climate Control Middle East October 2012

products, including ductless air conditioning and heat pump systems for residential and commercial applications as well as large-sized HVAC systems for buildings and factories, and that through the acquisition, Daikin will fully enter the ducted-style air conditioning market for residential and commercial applications in North America.

On the occasion of the acquisition, Noriyuki Inoue, Chairman and CEO of Daikin, said: “Goodman and Daikin can enjoy a complementary relationship by having more channels in the market to offer Goodman’s market-leading ducted products and Daikin’s existing products. Daikin will also capitalise on Goodman’s lean management know-how to help

us improve the earning power of the entire Daikin Group and expand our business in emerging and high volume markets globally.”

David L Swift, President and CEO of Goodman, added: “This is an opportunity for Goodman to grow globally as well as in the North American market by leveraging Daikin Group’s technical expertise, environmental technologies, and North American commercial expertise. With complementary core businesses, we are in a very competitive position to grow all segments of Goodman’s and Daikin's business. We look forward to a successful future as a part of a winning team and are enthusiastic about creating more opportunities to excel.”

sectors in the region through advanced smart grid programmes and systems.

In light of the above, the organisers of the event have reportedly chosen the theme, “Renewable Energy and Smart Grids… Future Electric Power Solutions” to provide the framework for a discussion on its listed agenda, including adopting medium- and longterm national strategies to develop the structure of the Arab electricity sector, improving management and control of electric power networks and the use of smart grid applications for remote control of networks and promoting steps to expand the common Arab electricity grid in order to enhance the efficiency and load of country

networks. Finding practical solutions for expanding the use of alternative and renewable energy sources and expanding and promoting scientific research and training in electricity, and the importance of renewable energy for the environment and human, social and economic development will also be subjects of focus during the event, said KAHRAMAA. The organisers said that the event is expected to attract people from the public and private sectors in the Arab world and other countries, policy-makers in the power sector, global manufacturers of electrical equipment and smart grid solutions and experts in renewable energy.

comings &goings

Danfoss appoints new Sales and Marketing Director

Brings on board 18 years of experience in industrial and commercial refrigeration

A

ccording to a communiqué, Ziad Al-Bawaliz has joined Danfoss FZCO, as the Sales and Marketing Director for the Middle East region. He will be based in Dubai, from where he will oversee the sales and marketing of the company’s refrigeration and air conditioning products.

Ziad’s previous assignment was with GEA GRADE Refrigeration, where he worked as Marketing and Sales Manager for the Middle East and North Africa region, the communiqué said.

Al-Bawaliz reportedly has a Bachelor’s Degree in Electrical Engineering from Jordan University of Science and Technology and brings with him 18 years of experience in the field of industrial and commercial refrigeration.

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happenings the region

Hörmann to display Frost & Sullivan door solutions at analyses Saudi The Big 5 show

Will have an accent on security and energy efficiency

energy use

Outlines Kingdom’s initiatives towards sustainable energy

F

Photo: ccme Archives

H

örmann Middle East, the industrial, commercial and residential door manufacturer, will have one of the largest stands at The Big 5 this year, with a range of products that enhance security and energy efficiency. Announcing this, the company said that it will display Darius Khanloo the latest technology and designs in garage doors, entrance doors, internal doors, fire doors and smoketight door assemblies, industrial doors, loading technology, frames and windows. It will be present at Dubai World Trade Center, Zaabeel Hall, German Pavilion, Stand No L120 from November 5 to 8.

“We are excited to participate at Big 5 for the third consecutive year with one of the largest stands at the show this year,” said Darius Khanloo, Managing Director of Hörmann Middle East. “We will be showcasing many of our latest products at the show, especially new custommade solutions for logistics companies and food and dairy producing companies. Ever since we established a direct presence in the region in 2009, we have experienced a steady year on year growth. We are aiming to expand our operations with a new branch office in Qatar.”

According to the company, it has seen a remarkable demand in the region for its environment-friendly door solutions: Hörmann steel ThermoPro doors improve thermal insulation by up to 30% and come in a wide variety of styles and, despite being relatively inexpensive, provide great energy efficiency as a result of their thermal insulation.

Multi-point locking ensures high security as well to provide a perfect solution, the company added.

8

Climate Control Middle East October 2012

rost & Sullivan conducted an analysis on the new techniques being adopted by the Kingdom of Saudi Arabia to address rising energy consumption and improving energy efficiency. Announcing this, the company has shared the overview of the current situation of energy management in the Kingdom, outlining the country’s initiatives towards sustainable energy that will shape the future landscape of the sector.

The study highlights the construction boom and rising investments in real estate in the Kingdom, which has resulted in the phenomenal growth for building technologies and reflects the country’s energy-efficiency potential and the emerging market opportunities for HVAC, lighting, IBMS, waste to energy, MEP systems and performance contracting, said Frost & Sullivan.

Following are the salient points of the analysis: • Since all the sectors poised for growth operate on electricity, Saudi Arabia’s energy consumption has inevitably surged rapidly over the past few years.

Additionally, economic growth across sectors, such as petrochemicals and plastics, power, water and wastewater, infrastructure and metals and mining, have contributed to increased energy consumption.

• In 2011, the energy consumption pattern in Saudi Arabia was dominated by its residential sector, with 54% of total energy consumption, followed by commercial sector with 29%, and industrial sector with 17%.

• Saudi Arabia is projected to account for over 50% of the GCC’s district cooling operating capacity and 33% of overall revenue by 2016, at a compound annual growth rate (CAGR) of 21.7%.

• Saudi Arabia is the highest waste generator in the GCC, which was recorded at approximately 22 million tonnes in 2011. Availability of cheap fossil fuel and low landfill rates have been hindering growth of waste-to-energy and recycling market in the country.

• The rise in energy consumption must be addressed by developing new techniques for energy efficiency.

• Frost & Sullivan recommends upgrading existing systems, including controls, sensors, building Continued on Page 10

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happenings the region

Empower clears loan AED 83 million paid is part of syndicated facility from a consortium of banks

E

mirates Central Cooling Systems Corporation (Empower) has announced that it has recently cleared a half-yearly loan installment of AED 83 million as part of the syndicated loan facility from a consortium of banks, with Emirates NBD being the facility agent.

This loan, said Empower, was used to build its plants and networks in Dubai International Financial Centre (DIFC), Business Bay, Mirdif, TECOM C and Al Quoz projects.

Commenting on fulfilling its payment commitment, Ahmed Bin Shafar, CEO,

infrastructure driven by actual demand in specific projects. This has resulted in sustainable growth and avoided unproductive investments and financial losses. Our prudent and conservative strategy has also been acknowledged by the banks and financial institutions.”

Empower, said: “Our company has succeeded in positioning itself as a major player in the global district cooling industry through prudent management. Clearing our loans on schedule demonstrates the robustness and sustainability of Empower’s business model and effectiveness of its financial strategy. Empower had total loan of approximately AED 1.2 billion, of which the current outstanding balance stands at AED 580 million.

“Empower has adopted a business model that works on the strategy of investing in plants and network

Frost & Sullivan analyses Saudi energy use (from page 8) management systems, and performance contracting models, along with harnessing energyefficient products and systems to help rationalise energy consumption in the country.

• Some techniques that can support energy-efficiency measures are HVAC, lighting, integrated building management systems (IBMS), performance contracting and recycling. Phasing out inefficient lighting systems with energyefficient compact fluorescent lamp (CFL) and light-emitting diode (LED) lights is further expected to reduce annual electricity consumption by 3.2 Twh and CO2 emissions by 2.4 Mt. • Saudi Arabia is spearheading the region’s emerging trend towards adoption of alternative and renewable sources of energy. With a strong renewable energy resource base and constant technological developments, the country has plans to improve energy efficiency by using existing systems and encouraging use of energy-efficient products.

10

Climate Control Middle East October 2012

• In 2010, the Government of Saudi Arabia established the Saudi Energy Efficiency Board (SEEC), as energy efficiency was identified as a national priority. Amongst others, one objective of the SEEC was to propose a national energy-efficiency plan in order to rationalise energy usage in the country. Thus, Saudi Arabia’s first grid connected solar power plant was inaugurated in 2011.

• KSA offers over $1.35 billion of energy-saving potential and out of this about $1 billion is an immediate addressable market potential for energy efficiency. Currently, Saudi Arabia accounts for $1.44 billion of untapped energy-saving market, which translates to about 37.1 bn kWh of energy saved.

• A critical challenge to development of the Kingdom’s energy-efficiency market is lack of awareness amongst end users. To address this, Frost & Sullivan recommends that Saudi Arabia should implement mandatory regulations on energy management and incentives for energy-efficient investments, along

with efficiency standards for new air conditioning appliances and replace inefficient models and regulation on maintenance.

• Saudi Arabia needs to incentivise implementation of new technology to reduce energy consumption, provide more autonomy to energyrelated organisations and create awareness about conservation of energy with respect to increasing energy prices.

• As the ongoing industrial development in the Kingdom is expected to raise the energy demand further. A transparent building model, showcasing periodic reduction in operational costs for new constructions as well as existing buildings is recommended.

“If Saudi Arabia implements energyefficiency programmes as proposed by the electricity adviser, demand for products, such as programmable thermostats, energy-efficient HVAC equipment, and other associated services and solutions is expected to increase,” said Frost & Sullivan Environmental and Building Technologies Industry Manager, Kumar Ramesh.

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happenings the region

Shale gas a ‘game changer’

According to Chevron Phillips ME to be affected by the US ethylene capacity in 10 years

P

ointing out that Middle Eastern producers are at a stage in their development where pure ethane is difficult to secure and that the industry is moving towards heavier feedstocks, Chevron Phillips Chemical Company has revealed in a news release that the development of new shale gas resources in the United States will have a bearing on the region and that it needs to prepare to capitalise on potential

opportunities in its own petrochemical sector. Eli Andjelich, Vice President, Business Development, Middle East, Chevron Phillips, said that announcements have been made over the past year regarding the high probability that four to six new crackers will be constructed in the United States based on feed supply from the growth of shale gas production and that if these are actualised, the country would become a larger exporter of ethylene

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12

Engineering

Climate Control Middle East October 2012

Energy

Environment

and ethylene derivatives.

With the development of new shale gas resources, the US petrochemical industry is announcing significant expansions of US petrochemical capacity, and these new resources are a major driver for its new investments in the United States, Chevron Phillips claimed. It added that the company was on track to build a 1.5 million metric tonnes/year of ethane cracker at its Baytown, Texas plant and two polyethylene facilities, capable of producing 500,000 metric tonnes/year each, in Old Ocean, Texas near its Sweeny plant. The entire project called US Gulf Coast Petrochemical Project will cost an estimated $5 billion, Chevron Phillips said.

According to Dr Christian Günther, Partner at McKinsey and Company, the consultancy, this is unlikely to affect Middle East aspirations of growth in a major way – the US is estimated to add around nine to 11 million tonnes of ethylene capacity within the next 10 years, which can be absorbed by the forecasted global demand growth of around 50 million tonnes and still leave space for other players. Moreover, prices will remain set by liquids-based producers, as significant quantities of liquids-based ethylene will be needed to meet global demand.

“Cracking naphtha primarily produces

ethylene, propylene and butadiene,” said Dr Günther.

“If the US shifts to cracking ethane, the supply of propylene and butadiene may reduce and force prices to increase, making it an opportunity for producers with access to C3 and C4 to invest in.”

The real challenge for the petrochemical industry in the Middle East, says Chevron Phillips, will likely be the availability of advantageously priced ethane. From a country perspective, Dr Günther believes that the right feedstock allocation decisions by regional governments as well as enhanced education and capability building are required. And at the same time, chemical companies will have to accelerate their move towards functional excellence in operations, capex, procurement and marketing and explore opportunities beyond their traditional products to ensure the Middle East remains globally competitive.

Optima offers energy management package

Partnering with Priva to release Optimum Energy website link

O

ptima International has announced that it will release Optimum Energy website link in the UAE at the end of summer.

A collaboration between Optima International and Priva’s TC Energy, Optimum Energy is a cloud-based complete energy management package that allows any building to monitor and manage its energy usage online via its services, the announcement claimed.

Describing it as a low-cost cloud based online energy monitoring of any building within the UAE, Optima said that it would give access to all energy

information and usage to the relevant and interested parties and was a scalable solution suitable for single buildings to multiple site and multiple building complexes.

According to Optima, the package is at least 50% lower in cost than its competitors, but is a much more comprehensive service covering energy-saving advice, consultancy, implementation, optimisation of building services and supply of all meters/ hardware, along with clear intuitive interface.

Optima explained that Optimum

Energy was not reliant on a BMS system being in place, and if legacy BMS were present, it could easily interface to get the relevant information for the systems.

It is currently implementing two beta sites and will be ordering the web servers in the next few weeks, said Optima, and added that the energy management market in the UAE had a huge potential for itself and Priva.

Announcing the address: http://www. optimumenergy.moonfruit.com/, it said that the current address was a temporary location and that a final address would be released soon.

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happenings at large

Phased out refrigerant a smuggling commodity New York Times story highlights rising demand for contraband coolant gases

A

Chilling Effect, a Miami, September 7, 2012 datelined New York Times (NYT) story

by Elisabeth Rosenthal and Andrew W Lehren, starkly brings home the harsh truth: There is a thriving global market for phased out refrigerants.

Realising the damage it causes to the ozone layer and its harmful impact on global warming, HCFC-22 has been phased out of new equipment in the industrialised countries under an international treaty. Strict limits have been imposed on the quantity that can be imported or sold in the United States by American manufacturers. Despite this, or probably because of this, there appears to be a market for this refrigerant.

According to the NYT story, the contraband under question – half a million dollars worth of HCFC-22 – was purchased from China by Marcone, a

St Louis-based company, avowedly the largest authorised source for appliance parts in the United States. This reveals that the gas is still being produced in large quantities and sold illegally in developing countries and smuggled into the United States. Evidently, there is a huge profit to be made from such nefarious deals.

The incident dating back to 2009, says NYT, involved Carlos Garcia, the Marcone Vice President, who “generated big business for his company’s growing air conditioning operation by selling smuggled foreign gas to repairmen at rock bottom prices in a

Counterfeit refrigerants flooding the industry

Poses serious hazards and warrants stringent deterrents

A

n article in Refrigeration and Air Conditioning Magazine (Rac) titled “Industry Warned Over Counterfeit Refrigerants”, has reported that the threat of counterfeit refrigerants is on the rise, with fake products now sourced from the Far East and making inroads into Europe, according to the British Refrigeration Association (BRA).

The article quotes BRA as evidence: “At best, the counterfeit refrigerants

14

Climate Control Middle East October 2012

found in the EC contain a mixture of illegal HCFC and CFC products; at worst they may contain methyl chloride, which has already had deadly consequences in the Reefer industry.

Adulterated refrigerant has frequently caused poor equipment performance and mechanical breakdown.”

BRA’s statement apparently alludes to the explosions across several continents last year, especially the one in Cat Lai, Vietnam, where container

promotion called Freaky Freon Fridays, drawing on a brand name that many use as a synonym for coolants” (NYT). On June 26 this year, Garcia was sentenced to 13 months in federal prison, the story reported. International efforts to curb the use of HCFC-22 have been unsuccessful due to several reasons ranging from “loopholes in environmental treaties to the reluctance of manufacturers to step up development of more environmentally friendly machines,” the story added.

NOTE: This piece is based on The New York Times story “A Chilling Effect”, dated September 7, 2012, which was accessed from http://www.nytimes.com/2012/09/08/science/earth/ smugglers-sell-coolant-tied-to-global-warming.html?_r=3& nl=todaysheadlines&emc=edit_ According to NYT, articles in this series describe the impact of the rising demand for coolant gases, a growing contributor to global warming.

explosions resulted in two fatalities.

The cause of the incidents was most probably counterfeit refrigerant that contained methyl chloride, rather than pure HFC-134a, as per the conclusions drawn by Cambridge Refrigeration Technology, which investigated the explosions, Rac said.

BRA is reportedly concerned by the disturbing trend and, to quote Rac, is “urging all users of refrigerants to check with their supplier for EU laboratory analysis results and/or proof of conformity”.

In a classic case of expedience over ethics and price winning against quality, the low-cost counterfeit refrigerants are said to be often sold in cylinders with dubious labels.

Continued on Page 16

GEA cracks “Kuwait Chiller Challenge” Company claims its ATEX compressors helped successful project completion

G

EA Bock has announced overcoming what it terms “the Kuwait Chiller Challenge”. The company’s ATEX compressors were used to master the challenge, the announcement added.

The announcement gave the details: In 2011, GEA Refrigeration Technologies was asked to collaborate with HVAC & Refrigeration

Engineering (HVACR) Ltd to execute, what could be called a demanding contract in Kuwait. HVACR, based in Aberdeen, Great Britain, a solution provider for clients in the oil and gas, marine and petrochemical industries, was contracted to develop and manufacture 27 chiller units for the client in Kuwait.

HVACR Ltd reportedly placed its trust in GEA Bock

ATEX compressors for the challenging project. The chillers were required for use in a major petrochemical plant for climate control in container-type control centres that coordinate measurements in oil and gas fields in Kuwait,

October 2012

which, therefore, posed an explosion-risk area. Added to this was Kuwait’s high temperatures.

Keeping these in mind, the specific challenge was to design chillers capable of maintaining constant water temperatures in the range between 25°C and 30°C. An additional specification was to employ only equipment certified by ATEX for use.

The test chamber used simulated temperatures between – 40°C and +60°C to verify the durability of the HVAC systems under extreme climatic conditions.

The GEA Bock ATEXcompliant compressors passed the tests without difficulty and were successful in achieving full ATEX compliance for all the chiller units, GEA claimed.

www.climatecontrolme.com

15

happenings at large

GEA approves R407F for Bock HG and HA compressors Claims the low GWP refrigerant with GEA products also suitable for deep-freezing

G

EA Refrigeration Technologies has approved its semihermetic GEA Bock HG and HA compressors for the operation with the refrigerant R407F. Announcing this, the company said that the refrigerant was especially suitable for commercial refrigeration, because it had a higher efficiency than R404A and a 50% lower GWP (Global Warming Potential) and could be used as a dropin solution when it comes to retrofitting R22 systems.

According to GEA, laboratory tests showed that the use of R407F resulted in a significant increase of the energy efficiency of a system, compared to R404A. Even though tests with

R407F in deep freezing showed a lower refrigerating capacity than R404A of around 15%, the power input of the systems also decreased at the same time by about 22%. Only based on the compressor, this resulted in an increase at the relevant operating points of the COP (Coefficient of Performance) of five to 10% in deep freezing as well as seven to 12% in normal cooling, GEA explained.

The company claimed that the new hydrofluorocarbon (HFC) R407F can be compared to R22 in many respects, but requires less

system adaptations at retrofittings than other R22 alternatives and has a comparable higher energy efficiency at a significantly lower GWP (compared to other HFCs), as tests by GEA Refrigeration Technologies have reportedly

showed.

A disadvantage of R407F – and therefore a parallel to R22 – is the high discharge end temperatures that complicate the use of classic suction gascooled semi-hermetic compressors in deep freezing, and usually require the use of a cooling fan as well as liquid injection, the company pointed out. It added that an easier and, therefore, cheaper and more efficient solution was air-cooled GEA Bock HA compressors. Due to their design with an integrated external air cooling, they could easily be operated with R407F in deep freezing without any additional investment for cooling fans or complicated liquid injection, it claimed.

Until R407F was integrated into the GEA Bock compressor selection software VAP, the GEA Bock Application Engineering (bock@gea.com) would be available for queries, GEA revealed.

Counterfeit refrigerants flooding the industry (from page 14)

“Additionally where offers include an exchange for cylinders not owned by the supplying company, users need to be aware that they will remain liable for cylinder charges including the cost of the cylinder if it is not returned to the original refrigerant supplier,” said Rac, quoting BRA. According to the news story, closer home, DuPont Refrigerants recently succeeded in shutting down a suspected trader of counterfeit refrigerants in the UAE after a protracted tussle, with the trader having links to counterfeit refrigerant

16

Climate Control Middle East October 2012

gases in Egypt, Saudi Arabia and Jordan.

“In late 2007, a suspected trader of counterfeit refrigerants was identified in a market survey. In 2008, purchases were made on behalf of DuPont in the UAE, and DuPont confirmed the goods as counterfeits.

The counterfeits were found in cylinders of R-22 refrigerant gas that were illegally branded with the DuPont Freon trademark in a warehouse operated by the trader,” Rac said, giving details of the case.

DuPont evidently filed complaints

with law enforcement agencies and the police conducted raids and seized counterfeit refrigerant cylinders and other incriminating evidence. DuPont’s persistency appears to have paid off and resulted in the erring party’s warehouse being sealed and the owner being put behind bars.

Such prompt and decisive action by the big players in the industry, coupled with stringent punishment and wide media coverage will together, hopefully, act as a deterrent to the rampant sale of counterfeit refrigerants.

happenings at large

Markham selects Caterpillar equipment Cat CG260 generator sets to power district energy projects

C

aterpillar, manufacturer of construction and mining equipment, clean diesel, gas engines and industrial gas turbines, has announced that it has been selected to provide two cogeneration plants to Markham District Energy (MDE), an energy company owned by the City of Markham, Ontario, Canada. Local Cat dealer, Toromont will be supplying a CG260-12 generator set for the MDE Birchmount Energy Centre, a CG260-16 generator set for the Bur Oak Energy Centre and ancillary electrical and mechanical equipment for both sites, the announcement added.

According to Caterpillar, the generator sets will provide a combined 7 MW of electricity and 7MW of thermal energy to the Markham district

energy systems and the projects will be the first in North America to employ Caterpillar’s recently introduced CG260 Series.

MDE, which was established in 1999 to develop district energy systems for Markham’s developing urban centers, produces at its central plants heated and chilled water, which is distributed throughout the community via underground thermal distribution systems, with the aim of dramatically increasing efficiency and reduce emissions, the company claimed. It added that it has deployed a combinedheat-and-power (CHP) strategy using reciprocating engine generator set and heat recovery technology.

“We have successfully operated Cat power generation equipment for over a

decade now and Toromont has been an excellent local partner since our project was first commissioned,” said Bruce Ander, MDE President and CEO. “When Caterpillar offered the CG260 product in response to our recent request for proposals, we were very impressed and pleased that they won the competition. When we complete the new CHP projects, MDE will operate over 20 MW of Cat-powered generators at three locations that provide reliable and efficient power and heating to our Markham customers.”

Distech Controls and Samsung Techwin enter partnership

Samsung to strengthen its offering in building management solutions and energy efficiency consulting

D

istech Controls, which offers building automation and energy management solutions, and Samsung Techwin, which deals in energy and safety solutions, have announced a partnership to enhance Samsung Techwin’s smart building management solution offering. Under the terms of the agreement, Samsung Techwin will leverage Distech

18

Climate Control Middle East October 2012

Controls’ leading-edge technology – based on open standards – to provide a complete, fully integrated building management solution to its customers, the announcement added.

“Distech Controls’ line of featurerich HVAC control products was selected based on our stringent requirements for quality and performance,” said HS Park, General

Manager of Quality Assurance Team, Samsung Techwin, speaking about the partnership. “This partnership contributes to the differentiation of our total building solutions and to our commitment to technologies that promote energy efficiency.”

Etienne Veilleux, President and CEO of Distech Controls, added: “We are very pleased to enter this agreement with Samsung Techwin, and to have been selected as a partner in their delivery of building energy efficiency consulting and solutions “We look forward to continued collaboration with a company that shares our vision of performance, innovation and sustainability.”

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happenings at large

Panel urges nations to safeguard future of CDM

Offers recommendations to make carbon market effective tool to combat climate change

20

Climate Control Middle East October 2012

T

he independent panel established to take stock of the Kyoto Protocol’s Clean Development Mechanism (CDM) has released its recommendations by urging nations to intervene forcefully to address the crisis in the carbon market and substantially increase their level of ambition when it comes to reducing greenhouse gas emissions.

Conveying this in its news release, CDM, that allows emission-reduction projects in developing countries to earn certified emission reductions (CERs), each equivalent to one tonne of CO2, added that the ability under it to earn a saleable credit for each tonne of GHG emissions reduced has initiated more than 4,500 projects in 75 developing countries, which include everything from wind energy and efficient cookstove projects to land-fill gas and large industrial projects.

However, CDM, credited with creating the first global environmental currency, revealed that it is now under threat due to the current low prices paid for credits – the result of low demand and uncertainty over the timing and level of future demand – which is tied to countries’ emission-reduction commitments.

According to the highlevel panel, if nations permit the CDM mechanism to disintegrate, the political consensus for truly global carbon markets may evaporate. Therefore, the panel calls on nations to increase their mitigation ambition by strengthening the pledges that have been made under the United Nations

Framework Convention on Climate Change and by adopting corresponding domestic policies and measures.

“Nations must, as a high priority, restore faith in global carbon markets generally and in the CDM specifically,” said the panel’s Chair, Valli Moosa. “Although the CDM has been the subject of extensive criticism, it has improved markedly in recent years and has helped combat climate change by mobilising the private sector through markets.”

The CDM, on its part, emphasised that it was set up to do two things: give countries with a commitment under the Kyoto Protocol some flexibility in how they meet their commitments, and assist countries to achieve

their sustainable development goals. It pointed out that the mechanism has been criticised by some stakeholders for being too stringent and slow, and by others for not being stringent enough in ensuring that the emission reductions produced are additional, and would not have happened anyway, even without the CDM. To address shortcomings and improve the mechanism’s reputation and performance, CDM has recommended fundamental reforms of its operating procedures. More specifically, the panel calls for: • More systematic reporting, monitoring and verification of sustainable development impacts • Greater access for under-represented regions through simplified procedures • Revised criteria for the composition of the CDM Executive Board (CDM EB) to reflect not only regional distribution but also professional knowledge and experience • Implementation of standardised methods, such as performance benchmarks and positive lists, for assessing additionality In addition, the Panel urges nations to take measures to enhance the CDM’s role so that it adapts to new political and market conditions.

The wide-ranging research programme commissioned by the panel claimed that it had found that over the past decade, the CDM alone had helped nations mitigate approximately one billion tonnes of GHG emissions in a manner that realised US$3.6 billion in savings for developed countries. Over this same period, the CDM has mobilised more than US$215 billion in investments in developing countries, thereby accelerating economic growth and poverty alleviation, it said.

“New market-based mechanisms will take years to design and make operational, said the vice-chair of the panel, Joan MacNaughton. “For the balance of this decade, the CDM is likely to remain the world’s foremost means of gaining the benefits of a truly global carbon market.

The panel believes that a strong and robust CDM is necessary to support the political consensus and bring the benefits of carbon markets to developing countries.”

To make the CDM more effective,

the panel recommends 51 actions across 12 areas. Its recommendations cover issues, such as the crisis of demand, mitigation impact, linking of carbon markets, sustainable development, regional distribution and governance structure, additionality and stakeholder and public engagement as well as mechanisms for appeals and grievances.

The panel, which officially presented its report at the 69th meeting of the CDM Executive Board in Bangkok, urges that its recommendations be implemented fully and without delay with a timetable agreed, that will bring them into effect by the United Nations Climate Change Conference, scheduled for December 2013.

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October 2012

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21

happenings at large

NAFA announces 2012 Clean Air Award winners Twenty-five buildings recognised for fulfilling award criteria

T

he National Air Filtration Association (NAFA), the trade association for heating, ventilating and air conditioning air filter manufacturers and distributors around the world, has announced the names of recipients of its 2012 Clean Air Award.

The following is the list of recipients for the 2012 Award include: • MetroNational (Cobalt Center), Houston, Texas • Oxford Properties, Quinness Tower, Vancouver, BC, Canada • Galleria Plaza I (Transwestern), Houston, Texas • Banner Ironwood Medical Center, San Tan Valley, Arizona • University Medical Center, Tucson, Arizona • The Hospital of Central Connecticut, New Britain Campus, New Britain, Connecticut • Shaw Cable, Edmonton, AB, Canada

According to NAFA(r), recipients of the NAFA Clean Air Award receive a trophy that can be displayed in their facility and maintain the award through yearly inspections for renewal to confirm system performance to NAFA Clean Air Award specifications.

Explaining the eligibility and the awarding process, NAFA said that building owners and facility managers must increase the level of indoor air cleanliness with filtration and improve system hygiene in 10 categories, achieving a combined score for improvements of 52 points or more and have the work inspected and confirmed by a NAFA-certified Air Filter Specialist.

Signed documentation of all retrofit and upgrade work must accompany all applications, and confirmation with the on-site inspection is required. Businesses from across the world are eligible to submit their entries for the award,

and are nominated by NAFA member companies and a number of other HVAC organisations.

The award has been instituted to encourage and recognise building owners and facility managers to work to increase the indoor environment air cleanliness through higher levels of air filtration, said NAFA, and added that since its inception in 1998, it has awarded about 240 facilities across the world.

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Welded-female thread and

Climate Control Middle East October 2012

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marketplace

This section contains regional and international products information

Auma

Auma Actuators SQ.2

A

uma, the German-based supplier of modular electric actuators to the power industry, has announced extending its portfolio of modular electric actuators to include an SQ .2 part-turn range for butterfly and ball valve automation. Scheduled for launch in 2013, the actuators will replace the company’s SG.1 range, manufactured since 1998, the announcement added.

According to Auma, the new two-component powder coating has been incorporated into the SQ.2 design, ensuring improved corrosion protection, and the enclosure protection of the devices meets IP 68 - basic standards.

The manufacturer lists the following product features and advantages: • The actuator size included in the SQ.2 series more than

doubles the torque range previously offered by the SG.1. This represents a significant expansion now covering 50Nm to 2,400Nm. n It also comes with an SQR version for modulating duty which replaces the SGR. The SQR provides improved control characteristics with enhanced positioning accuracy and an increased number of permissible starts per hour. n Commissioning and operation of SQ actuators are identical to the SA .2 multi-turn type range, introduced by Auma in 2010. This includes the same control concept: the two ranges are without integral controls and are available with simple AM or micro-controller controlled AC. As a result, controls are interchangeable and, at plants where both product series are installed, on-site device management becomes simplified.

E+E Elektronik

Thermal flowmeters EE771, EE772 and EE776

S

aying that only with precise knowledge of compressed air and process gas costs can saving potential be understood, E+E Elektronik has introduced new thermal flowmeters – EE771, EE772 and EE776 – for compressed air and gases. The company claimed that during development, special attention was paid to simple, cost-effective and, above all, safe assembly of the flowmeters, and that in this respect, the patented non-return protection device of the EE776 sets new standards for safety.

The manufacturer lists additional product features and benefits: n The EE771, EE772 and EE776 flowmeters enable extremely precise evaluation throughout the pipe network from the compressor through to the end consumer. Even the smallest volume flows are recorded accurately, which is a prerequisite for charging consumers exactly or locating leaks. n They record the mass flow or corrected volume flow in supply networks with the highest possible precision, regardless of pressure or temperature, for example, consumption of compressed air, nitrogen, helium, CO2 or oxygen can be measured. n Measurements can be carried out in pipes of DN15 (1/2“) to DN300 (12“) and with an operating pressure of 16 or 40 bar. n The hot tap valve of the EE772 and the ball valve mounting fitting of the EE771 ensure that the flowmeters can be installed and removed very quickly in their operational state. This is a useful feature for periodic quality control and calibration. For pipes from DN40 (1 ½“) this can even be done without interrupting the flow in the supply pipeline. n It is easy for customers to adapt the flowmeter perfectly to their measurement task using the configuration software included in the delivery.

24

Climate Control Middle East October 2012

n Two signal outputs are available to output the measured values. Depending on the application, these can be configured as an analogue output (current or voltage), switching output or pulse output for consumption measuring. n The flowmeters are optionally available with an integrated bus output, M-bus or Modbus RTU.

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marketplace

This section contains regional and international products information

GEA Refrigeration Technologies

GEA Bock 8-cylinder model F18 at SMM 2012

S

aying that in industrial as well as maritime applications, system operators often use open-type piston compressors with an external drive when a high degree of reliability, flexibility and operational safety, GEA Refrigeration Technologies has introduced the new GEA Bock compressor models F18 of its GEA Bock F-series. With this, the company reportedly closes the gap between the product lines – GEA Bock and GEA Grasso.

According to GEA, the compressor is available for standard refrigerants with the start of the Chillventa, and a special version for the established refrigerant for industrial systems NH3 (Ammonia) will follow in 2013.

The manufacturer lists the following product features and benefits: n The new eight-cylinder compressor model combines the knowhow in the small and medium output range with the know-how in the higher output range.

n For the first time, the GEA Bock mexxFlow valve system is used in this compressor. n The mexxFlow system is a flow-optimised double-ring design of the valve plate in combination with a cylinder head especially designed for the valve plate. n A plasma-nitrocarburised crankshaft drives the eight pistons of the compressor. n Due to the use of the valve system, the company is able to increase the efficiency of the compressor by 15%, compared to the use of standard valve plate technology. n It is also significantly smaller than competitors in this capacity range. A fact, that makes the compressor much easier to handle, for instance, for transportation or when taking it into a machine room. n The compressor expands the programme of open-type GEA Bock piston compressors upwards with a displacement of up to 280 m³/h.

Lennox

Miniair Air to air heat recovery unit

C

laiming that it has been designed and developed for residential and commercial applications where fresh air management is required, Lennox has introduced Miniair+. Thanks to integrated high efficiency cross flow heat recovery, the unit transfers heat between fresh air and the room exhaust air, the company adds.

The manufacturer lists the following product features and advantages: n With an efficiency between 52% and 58%, the heat recovery system allows significant energy saving. n Being particularly compact, it can be installed horizontally or vertically and does not require large clearances for maintenance. n Access to filters and fans can be had from the side or from the underside in case of ceiling installation. n The airflow configurations are flexible and can be easily modified on site when required. n The units can be equipped with chilled water coil, hot water coil, electrical heater and with damper and three-ways mixing box. n The double inlet forward-curved fans with multi-speed directdriven motor can be supplied as an option with built-in frequency converter. n In terms of IAQ, the unit is delivered with G4 filter, but as an option, can be provided with F6, F7

26

Climate Control Middle East October 2012

and F8. A humidifier can be supplied as winter humidifier when fitted in supply or in summer as adiabatic cooler then fitted in return. n The range is available in several versions: n Miniair+ Air to air heat recovery unit n 10 sizes – 100 to 6000m3/h – Esp 100 to 200Pa n Miniair+ BP recovery unit with integrated by-pass for free-cooling n 6 sizes – 650 to 5500m3/h - Esp 100 to 200Pa n Miniair+ FORecovery unit with high-efficiency filters and built-in control n 7 sizes – 1400 to 6000m3/h n Miniair+ BF Recovery with integrated by-pass high efficiency filters and built-in control n 7 sizes – 1400 to 6000m3/h

D-Code

A Climate Control Middle East campaign on demystifying the world of ducting

PUT A ROBOT ON THE JOB! When it comes to cleaning and maintaining an HVAC ductwork system, often the best “person” for the job is a robot, says Billy Prewitt and explains why and how.

Any company that

truly wants to make a positive impact on energy efficiency and Indoor Air Quality should consider using a robotic system to clean and maintain its HVAC ductwork system. A robotic system typically consists of a robotic vehicle that can carry various payloads, allowing it to quickly and efficiently complete such tasks as cleaning, inspecting (by means of a video component), testing, and sealing. The robotic vehicle can be easily adapted to allow completion of specific tasks by the addition of specialised components, such as whips, brushes, sprayers, and filters.

A robotic system offers multiple advantages over manual cleaning, inspecting, and sealing. In addition to immediately saving on labour costs, a robotic system can spray sealant at very high pressure, reach very small spaces, perform at a consistent pace over several hours, and requires only two access points, thus eliminating the need to cut potentially damaging access points in ductwork every five to seven feet.

The efficiency of the robotic system in performing

28

cleaning, inspection and maintenance tasks can translate readily into better performance of an HVAC ductwork system, resulting in improved Indoor Air Quality. Air delivered by a clean, well-sealed HVAC system will, therefore, include a minimum of allergens, pollutants and unpleasant odours, and the temperature of the air delivered will be more consistent throughout the space. The latter benefit means less use of appliances, such as space heaters and fans in some areas of a

Climate Control Middle East October 2012

In addition to immediately saving on labour costs, a robotic system can spray sealant at very high pressure, reach very small spaces and perform at a consistent pace over several hours building. This minimising of “plug load” will result in an overall reduction in energy consumption.

A company implementing

the use of a robotic system to clean and maintain its HVAC ductwork system will realise multiple economic benefits.

According to Frank Forrest, Efficiency Solutions Product Manager at Carlisle HVAC, a robotic system can typically pay for itself within the first one to two jobs, if used in a larger commercial building.

A well-maintained robotic system can be expected to perform its tasks well for as long as 10 years. Routine maintenance of the robotic system is simple: It requires only a good cleaning following each use. The robotic system is designed to allow easy replacement of worn out parts, such as tyres, brushes, whips, drive belts, and even the video/camera components.

Most ductwork technicians can readily learn to perform any routine maintenance a robotic system might require.

A well-maintained ductwork system is the key to getting the right amount of clean, fresh, conditioned air right where it needs to go.

The writer is Marketing Manager, Carlisle HVAC. He can be contacted at Billy.Prewitt@ CarlisleHVAC.com

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event round-up

THE CLIMATE

IN FOCUS

Round 2 of Refrigerants Review, on September 24 and 25, at

the Jumeirah Beach Hotel, in Dubai, saw participation from the world community of stakeholders, in subjects as varied as phase-out schedules, the illegal trade in refrigerants and the containment of refrigerants in district cooling plants. Here, we bring to you pictures of the event that was‌

30

Climate Control Middle East October 2012

HVAC AT THE BIG 5 The Big 5, The Middle East’s biggest and best attended building and construction show dedicates Hall 3 and Zabeel Hall to HVAC. Exhibitors include: • Air Master • Alp Emirates Panels • Ductsox • Durkee

• Duro Dyne • Energy International • Eros • Faisal Al Jassim

Innovation & Sustainability in Construction

5 – 8 November 2012 Dubai World Trade Centre

• Fawaz Refrigeration • Gami • Gree • Leminar

• Primeco • Sat Group • System Air • TCL

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Climate Control Middle East October 2012

event round-up

Awards 2012 November 7, 2012 | Godolphin Ballroom Jumeirah Emirates Towers, Dubai, UAE

THEME:

Self-actualisation – aiming for the sublime in HVACR innovation and business practices 8 broad categories | 26 specific categories The HVACR community in the Middle East collectively aspires to evolve new approaches to engineering so as to overcome the region’s unique challenges. To capture and celebrate their efforts and what it takes to be in the forefront, Climate Control Middle East magazine presents the Climate Control Awards 2012.

The Climate Control Awards represents prestige, credibility and a celebration of the HVACR industry in the Middle East.

With key players from the industry attending here’s your chance to...

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TO BOOK A TABLE OR SEAT, Log on to www.climatecontrolme.com/awards Ensure your seats by booking early!

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Climate Control Middle East October 2012

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PUMPING

ENERGY Pumps are the prime movers of the HVACR sector, which in turn has a symbiotic relationship with real estate growth. With the construction activity in the region showing signs of life, the pumps market has begun to breathe normally again. Pratibha Umashankar reports.

A

pump is a simple and robust piece of machinery which performs a vital function. It is the heart of the HVACR sector. Come to think of it, our heart itself is a pump.

We are alive as long as this central pump keeps ticking.

The analogy doesn’t end there. Both pumps are sturdy, but demand maintenance and need to be treated with respect. Sarfraz H Dairkee, General Manager, Corp Dev & Engg, MAHY Khoory & Co, Dubai, UAE, endorses this view. “Pumps can operate in a wide range of head, flow conditions, handling a variety of fluids,” he says. “However, just like car engines, they operate efficiently only in a narrow band. Application and system engineering considers the entire pumping system with variances and transients to propose an optimum solution. In simple words, it is the solution rather than the product approach.”

the pump segment in the HVACR sector in the region regaining its balance after the recession hiccups is good news. “The basic pump sets would roughly constitute about one to 1.5%, and the entire pumping system that includes pipes, fittings and controls around two to four per cent of the total construction costs,” Dairkee estimates.

Nadir Ilmas, Division Manager, Faisal Jassim Trading Co, LLC, Dubai, UAE, admits that pump is a diversified product line, whereby it is difficult to size the entire market, but adds: “The market size of pump

THE REGIONAL OUTLOOK

Given that pumps perform a range of important functions, 38

New buildings in Doha, Qatar

Climate Control Middle East October 2012

What is Efficiency is 800-Pumps? likely to affect Nadir Ilmas, Division Manager, Jassim Trading Company, profitability more Faisal Dubai, speaks about his significantly, company’s initiative: “800-Pumps initiative is a as compared to service available to all pump users – a kind of pan-GCC the past. This pump service, irrespective of pump brands. We observed should open up situations where a lot of small vanish from the requirements for companies country and their customers energy audits and suffer, because they don’t know where to go for maintenance. retrofitting of Therefore, our company came with the initiative to offer systems to curtail uppump maintenance service at a rational price. the cost “Another need was felt for 800-Pumps, because there was quite a bit of merger activity in the GCC. And usually when a merger occurs, the mother company will often eradicate the product line of the company it is taking in, and so the product line is wiped out. We are here to offer a service to those who bought products prior to the merger and discover that they have nowhere to go for service.”

for the HVACR segment would be around $100 million. The construction industry size in the region is roughly one trillion US dollars. Out of this, Saudi Arabia holds 51%, UAE 25%, Qatar 13% and others 11%. The size of the market related to pumps in these countries (Saudi Arabia/ UAE/Qatar/Oman) is probably around $75 million.”

Rajat Mathur, Director - Sales & Business Development (Gulf Countries), Grundfos Gulf Distribution FZE, Dubai, pegs the present pumps market in the GCC region at $300 million and gives the breakup: Saudi Arabia – approximately $130 million; the UAE – approximately $75 million; and Qatar – approximately $35 million.

As with so many other things in the HVACR sector, Saudi Arabia and Qatar have become the focal points for the pumps segment for the main players, with huge government spending on housing and infrastructure in the Kingdom and massive construction activity in Qatar in preparation for the World Cup being the key market drivers.

“We see a big potential in Saudi, which currently has 50% of the total construction activities in the region,” says Ilmas, whose company has a presence in the Kingdom, Qatar and Oman. “The market size is around $550 billion in Saudi Arabia and in Qatar it is around $130 billion. We also see Oman as an emerging market with a potential of over $4 billion. Oman, in the last few years, has seen major growth with new state-of-the-art airports lined up in Muscat, Salalah and Sohar.”

Ilmas factors in Oman’s tourism potential and draws attention to hotels coming up in Qasab, Muscat and Salalah. “There is also a new seaport under construction in Duqm, Oman. Obviously, a new port would need infrastructural development, which includes hotels, housing and so on,” he adds.

Mathur, too, admits that Oman appears to hold “good prospects”, but hastens to add that the speed of execution of projects is the key to success and market growth.

His company, Grundfos, like many other major entities, has added dedicated resources to serve its customers’ needs from design stage till execution stage of projects, in Saudi Arabia and Qatar. “As of now, there is definitely a boom in Saudi Arabia, but market capacity for realisation of project execution is a challenge,” he

warns.

Dairkee, on his part, points out that pumps for air conditioning are generally specified for multi-storey buildings and dense development, while villas and smaller buildings rely on window and split air conditioners.

He, therefore, believes that the market outlook would depend on mega development plans and allocation of funds in the two countries.

The subtext to the Saudi-Qatar success story, therefore, is cautious optimism.

LIFE AFTER RECESSION

The three experts agree that the region did, indeed, sustain damage during the recession, and is slowly getting back on its feet, holding hope for the pumps market.

“There has been an impact on all segments of pumps business, but especially building service segment and HVAC sectors (district cooling plants) have been affected,” explains Mathur.

He thinks the market is now looking steady. He hopes that it will maintain a defined path.

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focus PUMPS

Ilmas, too, thinks that the post-recession recovery has been steady and that the pumps and HVACR market are recovering, with 5,045 building construction projects in progress. “Globalisation continues despite regional conflicts throughout the world, but friction in global markets caused by security concerns means that global growth averages around three to 3.5% throughout the period,” he points out, introducing another variable to the discussion. “Oil shocks and a lack of trust undermined international cooperation and trade integration, causing a global recession in 20102012, followed by slower growth thereafter. The global economy benefits from increasing globalisation and trade in a harmonious global environment and reaches growth rates of over four per cent,” he adds.

Dairkee believes that the post-global financial downturn is likely to put pressures on the investment

40

It is often the case of obese designs that cause system failures and draw the attention to the pumping system deficiency as well as operating costs.

“This would call for better utilisation of resources with improvement in efficiency and effectiveness of resources in general, and energy and water in particular,” he says.

“Efficiency, therefore, is likely to affect profitability more significantly, as compared to the past. This should open up requirements for energy audits and retrofitting of systems to curtail the cost.

Considering the increasing awareness and appreciation of environmental footprint, the sector providing effective

Climate Control Middle East October 2012

Nadir Ilmas

Rajat Mathur

turnkey services is likely to grow.”

MARKET TRENDS AND INNOVATIONS

In Dairkee’s opinion, there appears to be a growing preference for automation in pumping systems generally for monitoring BAMS. Mathur enumerates high-efficiency, energy-saving, long-life, reliable pumps which cost less, need less maintenance and give value for money as items on everyone’s wish list.

When it comes to trends, in terms of digital and electronic technologies, he believes the market is leaning towards variable frequency-driven pumps, digital dosing pumps, dedicated controls for HVAC and sewage pumps.

Ilmas invokes the sustainability mantra, which is on everyone’s lips. “With the world going greener, we can see more and more money being pumped into R&D and the pumps are getting more efficient, more installationfriendly,” he elaborates.

Ilmas goes into the finer points: “We are seeing more and more use of investment casting technologies in pumps, whereby we have far less rejections in final pump castings. Pumps have become leaner, which means, with investment casting, we can create a pump with the same hydraulic with much lesser weight. Obviously, this leads

Sarfraz H Dairkee

to savings on metals, foundry cost and so on.”

The experts agree that the region is responsive to new technologies and innovations.

Dairkee qualifies this: “The region is quite responsive in terms of specifying branded modern products. However, innovative applications and methodologies have yet to get the appreciation of their possibilities.”

Mathur, while seeing a growing acceptance towards innovation, sounds a caveat: “It (the market) is still on a learning curve about lifecycle cost of pumps and system, which means, when they get the latest technologies, the premium associated with initial buying should be combined with the benefit of the full running cost of the pump system for a better evaluation and acceptance of new technologies and innovations.”

With sustainability being top priority globally, the question is, how has the sector and the region’s market resonated with this?

“Very well,” believes Mathur and cites as evidence, UAE Green Building Compliances, Estidama Compliances (Abu Dhabi), Environmental Safety Compliances (Masdar, Abu Dhabi), which have come up with new regulations.

Dairkee, too, believes that there is now a greater inclination and effort discernible on the part

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focus

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PUMPS

Masdar City in Abu Dhabi

Most of the pumps run endlessly unless they breakdown.

We hardly find customers and end-users who regularly maintain their pumps of governments and municipalities in the region towards implementing sustainable practices.

However, to reap significant benefits, sustainability has to be adapted and closely integrated into the local environment, he specifies.

CHALLENGES

While the experts broadly agree that the pumps market

42

in the region is quality conscious, responsive to innovation and generally free from the malaise of incorrect selection and installation problems, which other segments suffer from, and which can impact energy efficiency, they concede that there is room for improvement in these and other key areas.

According to Dairkee, the main challenge and, therefore, huge potential areas for improvement is system optimisation and appreciation of lifecycle performance evaluation. “Energy efficiency is yet to be measured, and therefore, to be managed,” he says. “In fact, it is often the case of obese designs that cause system failures and draw attention to the pumping system deficiency.

Separate energy measurement for the pumping systems is seldom observed. It is, thus, not routinely checked and optimised. There’s always a

Climate Control Middle East October 2012

tendency to assume a high safety factor, resulting in pumps and systems much larger than actually required being used.

This obesity/over-sizing is due to consultants putting more safety margins while selecting pumps, Ilmas points out. “So, we see a lot of pumps running at 50 to 60% of the rated RPM, whereby they work on lower part-load efficiency, leading to the efficiency of a pump dropping substantially,” he says.

Mathur believes that improper installation practices and operation and lack of periodic maintenance are areas that need tightening in the region. “We are helping as much as we can in all the major projects,” he says.

Acknowledging the difficulty customers sometimes face in finding servicing facilities, especially for models and product lines that are no longer being manufactured/ when the dealer has stopped

operations, he says: “Our distribution partners across the Middle East keep sufficient stocks. As a policy, Grundfos maintains spare parts availability for almost 10 years after a particular model is discontinued.”

Dairkee concurs that prompt and satisfactory service and repairs catering to pumps irrespective of brands are much sought after. He believes that most customers/clients appreciate this only after facing a crisis at firsthand.

Ilmas is critical of the lack of a real service culture in the region, when it comes to maintenance. “Most of the pumps run endlessly unless they break down,” he points out. “We hardly find customers and end-users who regularly maintain their pumps. The contractor normally finishes the contract at the end of defect liability period. Once this period is over, the building is taken

over by the maintenance contractor, who hardly maintains the pump. I suppose there could be much better maintenance of prime movers in the region, which is currently not the case.” Going into specific issues, Ilmas makes the following observations: • Pumps need periodic greasing of the bearings along with realignment of pump coupling – we hardly see that happening in the region.

• Corrosion issues are not particularly common in the region, as pumps normally last 10 to 15 years in a typical HVAC application.

• There are installations, especially with cooling towers, where there are NPSH (Net Positive Suction Head) issues leading to cavitation. It has also to do with air getting mixed in water in cooling tower applications.

• The majority of cavity issues occur in condenser pumps, as they work in open circuit.

• We have started offering customers ceramic coating on pumps to extend its life span – we have supplied pumps with ceramic coating on three major contracts in Dubai, Muscat and Salalah International Airports.

Educating the customers/clients and offering the right product for specific applications and assisting them in the initial pre-sales stages in order to avoid future problems can go a long way in countering the challenges faced in the region, believes Mathur.

PRICE VERSUS QUALITY

An accusation commonly levelled against the region, in general, and the HVACR market, in particular, is that despite being open to the latest innovations and being environmentally aware, it is governed by price rather than by quality, reliability and sustainability. This is more so when the market goes through times of economic upheaval and uncertainties, such as the one we have been witnessing in the last few years. The HVACR sector is no exception. But when it comes to the pumps segment, the experts tend to adopt a less cynical view. “Yes to a certain extent,” Mathur says cautiously, regarding price dictating terms. Adds Dairkee: “The market is rather brand conscious and reliability is linked to the brand rather than better engineered

solutions. Appreciation for integrated design and that each application is unique is gradually sinking in, albeit at a very slow pace.” Ilmas, on his part, asserts that the market in the region is conscious about quality, reliability and sustainability. Speaking from his company’s perspective, he says, “Obviously, the customer today is looking for the best product with the most competitive price. We cannot outprice the product just because it has got inherent better quality.”

When it comes to pump design,

Dairkee stresses that since manufacturing has reached a certain level of maturity, there is little to differentiate between products in the same bracket. But he points out that much difference could be achieved with better application and system engineering.

Mathur highlights the importance of raising awareness to win the quality versus price battle. “We market our product features by educating customers on the value of quality, lifecycle cost, energy-saving through

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focus PUMPS

Salalah International Airport, Oman

one-on-one meetings, seminars and factory visits,” he says. “We work closely with all the stakeholders who drive this change. And we see an encouraging response.

Hope it will improve more in future.”

In the final analysis, if a product is known for its quality, reliability and sustainability, then customers do recognise and respect this, believes Mathur.

TESTING TIMES

The HVACR sector plays an important role in the region’s economy and comfort, given its construction activity and climatic conditions.

And the pumps segment forms a vital component of the sector. Therefore, pumps sold in the region, typically, need to withstand the harsh environment.

Testing normally involves parameters of flow, head, efficiency, NPSH value, power 44

consumption and materialworthiness conducted according to international standards ISO 9001, ISO 14001, UL/FM approved (fire pump norms). “Most of the American products are tested in accordance with Hydraulic Standard while all European counterparts do their testing in accordance with EN ISO 9006 Class 2 Standards,” Ilmas explains.

When it comes to quality, how relevant is region-specific testing, is a question often raised, now that GCC markets have been using HVACR equipment now for several decades, and will continue to use them in the foreseeable future. “SASO (Saudi Arabia) and KUCAS (Kuwait) are relevant testing norms for small range of pumps, and in large contexts, Grundfos globally takes care of the quality and testing of all our pumps,” says Mathur. He would advocate region-based

Climate Control Middle East October 2012

As long as prices of water, electricity and fuel are heavily subsidised and do not reflect the cost, it will be difficult to create a retrofit culture testing centres only at the pump manufacturer's facility.

“We, at Grundfos, have the same at our Dubai facility covering our Middle East customer base and are already operating in the region for more than 40 years along with our distribution partners, and we will continue to invest in the region,” he says,

indicating that region-specific testing is a feasible idea.

Citing the example of large facilities in Saudi Arabia which are doing testing for the process industry, Ilmas, too, emphasises the need for a regional testing centre. “The testing lab should be able to test pumps up to 50,000 gallons,” he says. “We, at Xylem (Bell & Gossett), do not have a local testing centre.

However, Xylem has already taken necessary initiatives to establish testing centers throughout the region. We should have a test pad to test the 20,000 gallon in the next one or two years.”

However, Dairkee points out that with limited manufacturing in the region, such facilities may have a limited role. “As such, it is pumping system engineering that offers a significant scope for improvement,” he says.

“Therefore, I would rather advocate a pumping system

training and optimisation centre.”

DOES RETROFIT HAVE A FUTURE?

The poser is seemingly an oxymoron, but as technology improves – as it must – retrofitting has become an ongoing process, driven, not only by natural wear and tear of products and systems, but also by considerations of energy efficiency and sustainability. In this regard, the region does have a promising retrofit market, the experts agree. “Pump system re-engineering and retrofitting offer very promising running cost optimisation and higher system reliability potential,” says Dairkee. “And yes,

there have been several occasions when our services have been sought. In all the cases, the pumping system engineering has resulted in energy reduction in the range of 50 to 70% and increase in reliability. The pumping systems which used to fail frequently are operating for years without any recall and with much lower operating costs after re-engineering.”

Ilmas reveals that his company has been called to replace pumps in cases of incorrect installment or selection, vis-à-vis application. “We have started a new initiative to address the retrofit market of late,” he highlights. “This is quite a profitable business. We see a lot of installation in the region which are not delivered in the desired effect. We get repeat requests from customer for upsizing/ downsizing of supplied equipments.”

Mathur adds that his company is

promoting the Energy Audit and Pump Audit programmes in the region. “Although, as long as prices of water, electricity and fuel are heavily subsidised and do not reflect the cost, it will be difficult to create such a culture,” he warns.

CONCLUSION

The post economic downturn phase has been a difficult one, but things have now stabilised, and with pumps playing a pivotal role in the HVACR industry, they continue to command a steady market. Working with the stakeholders to increase their market share, educating customers and consultants to help them keep pace with innovation, with an eye on sustainability and quality are strategies the big players have adopted to bring a level of standardisation in the market.

And it is not long before standards set in Europe come to the GCC region and get implemented, they believe.

“We have increased our efforts throughout the GCC region and have been able to maintain the growth story,” admits Ilmas. “The region is slowly

y t l e v No

adapting to IE-3 design of motors which are even more efficient than the earlier high-efficiency designs. The introduction of investment casting technology has made the pumps much more compact than before. They are much lighter in weight and environmentally friendly in comparison to older heavier designs.”

Mathur believes that the growing preference towards energy efficiency, smart design for easy installation and maintenance and environmental-friendly products is good news for the pumps segment.

In Dairkee’s opinion, pump specifications/ standards, materials and processes of manufacture are getting standardised with application. “There is discipline in manufacturing and commitment to ensure consistent quality of every pump being manufactured,” he says, and succinctly sums up: “Pumps are simple and robust machines, and with better understanding of the variances, the system dynamics and integrated approach, much higher reliability and system efficiencies are achievable.”

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October 2012

www.climatecontrolme.com

45

country report CANADA

Canada — energised by innovation Insulated from the global economic downturn, Canada’s HVACR market has continued to enjoy a steady growth. Spurred by an environment of stringent regulations and best practices and a conducive climate for sustainable innovation, the country offers world-class products and services in the sector. Pratibha Umashankar reports.

T

here is a kind of quiet confidence that comes with maturity and age, which young markets can only hope to cultivate over the years. Canada’s HVACR sector is in that self-assured 46

space. Relatively unruffled by the recent – and in some cases ongoing – global economic crisis, the Canadian market continues to grow. But it has its ear to the ground – alert to sudden upheavals. Mafna Air Technologies Inc; EnviraNorth Systems Ltd; Carlisle

Climate Control Middle East October 2012

HVAC; and SA Armstrong Limited from the HVACR industry endorse this view.

Describing the postrecession ethos, Sal Fasanella, Products General Manager, Carlisle HVAC, says, “The scenario is quite encouraging, particularly with regards

to HVAC.” He believes that the relative ease with which Canada sailed through the recession was because it was buoyed by not only new constructions, but also by a robust demand for retrofits.

Dean Wood, International Sales Manager, Envira-North

The global downturn provided the much-needed ‘kick’ for Canadian companies to look to other non-traditional markets, such as China, India and South East Asia

Sal Fasanella

as new build construction continued, albeit at a slightly lower rate. Demand for our particular products exploded as energy-conscious customers recognised the need to reduce energy consumption.”

Highlighting the positive impact of the downturn, he observes: “Traditionally, large markets in Europe and the United States (that consume Canadian products) contracted heavily in the global downturn. This provided the much-needed ‘kick’ for Canadian companies to look to other non-traditional markets, such as China, India and South East Asia. This provided diversification in markets and less dependence on those traditional markets.

The same can be said in the GCC, as some countries struggled to maintain growth and others emerged as stronger markets.”

Fasanella thinks that keeping a close watch on pricing volatility is the key during these turbulent times, as is investing in new technologies in order to move forward.

THE MIDDLE EAST CONNECT

Dean Wood Systems Ltd, adds: “We didn’t experience the major effects that larger markets (Europe/ USA) suffered. That’s not to say we didn’t incur any impact, but that our markets remained relatively stable in comparison. The HVACR market was very similar

Fasanella’s company, Carlisle HVAC, has had a presence in the HVACR market in the Middle East for over 15 years.

It primarily sells through distributors in the UAE and Lebanon. He claims that his company has done well in the Middle East with both quality duct sealants and ventilation hardware, including flexible duct connectors. According to him, usually, customers/ clients in the region do not ask for additional standards for Canadian HVACR products, although in some cases, he has seen requests for British standards on some products.

Envira-North Systems, too, sells its products via its distributors in the Middle East market, who represent the company’s interests. “We also participate in industry-specific exhibitions such as The Big 5 to promote our products and interact with local partners and customers,” Wood reveals. “Our specifications meet or exceed requirements in the GCC countries.”

Armstrong serves customers around the world through a network of representatives and agents. In the Middle East region, the company has supplied to Saudi Arabia, the UAE, Qatar, Bahrain, Kuwait, Oman, Iran, Jordan, Yemen, Lebanon, and Syria, and as far as Morocco and Turkey.

It has focused on pumps for fire suppression and has also

had success supplying HVACR products to large commercial office buildings.

What does massive government spending in countries like Saudi Arabia and Qatar translate into for Canada’s HVACR industry? Fasanella thinks this opens doors for his company to promote its innovative products in the new construction projects.

Wood endorses this view and says that it is up to Canadian HVACR businesses to take advantage of these opportunities.

Armstrong, speaking through its Communication Department, says that it certainly presents opportunities for companies to present high valueadded solutions and build

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country report CANADA

Warren Heeley, President,

Heating, Refrigeration and Air Conditioning Institute of Canada (HRAI), answers questions about the HVACR scenario in Canada…

What are the latest trends in the HVACR sector in Canada?

HVACR’s emerging technologies, such as geothermal, solar, and biomass are beginning to be introduced into the Canadian market and offered as options to HVACR customers by the industry. This trend is more mature in the geothermal area and only starting in the other emerging technology areas. Because of increasing energy efficiency requirements in our building codes (particularly in the residential sector), the industry is having to deal with a move towards lower-input heating products, because the heat load demands of new homes are significantly reduced.

We also participate in industry-specific exhibitions, such as The Big 5 to promote our products and interact with local partners and customers

innovation is the key business strategy that works in the postrecession world – an area where Canada scores. They attribute this to a highly encouraging milieu of best practices, customer service, logistics, a vibrant R&D culture, a pro-active government enforcing regulations for sustainable products and services and a highly educated customer base, aware of its societal and environmental obligations.

To this list Beltrame adds

What role has sustainability and environmental awareness played in reinforcing the culture of innovation in the industry?

Environmental issues in Canada that directly affect the industry, such as refrigerant use and disposal of surplus refrigerant stocks and end-of-life of HVACR products have caused the industry to establish environmental care programmes in response to government regulation in these areas, for example, Refrigerant Management Canada, Mercury Thermostat Recovery Program, End-ofLife Product Stewardship Program. The innovative solutions initiated by the Canadian industry have made us the leading proponent of environmental responsibility, and our programmes are used as examples by the government for other industries who need to meet similar obligations.

How has Canada fared in ensuring that all new buildings comply with strict energyefficiency measures?

Canada has strict national and provincial building codes that must be adhered to for all new construction in the country. These codes have been ramping up the minimum efficiency levels of the building envelope for more than 30 years. And most recently, new measures concerning energy efficiency of energy-consuming products installed in the buildings are being added to the codes. Canada is a world leader in new building energy efficiency requirements.

How about IAQ research and the implementation of good IAQ policies?

Similar to the comments in the previous section, Canada has responded for more than 30 years in the building codes, to the IAQ requirements as the buildings became more tightly constructed to improve energy efficiency. The codes contain specific sections on ventilation and other measures to ensure proper air change within residential and commercial buildings. Canada has been a world leader in regard to residential ventilation technology and subsequent code requirements, including the introduction of heat/energy recovery technology as a requirement in certain residential buildings.

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Climate Control Middle East October 2012

productive business relationships with stakeholders in the value chain within international markets. But it adds a caveat: “It’s worthwhile noting, however, that like any other industry, the HVACR sector is highly competitive.

Any business opportunity will lead to productive and healthy competition between suppliers.

So, government is not necessarily to be seen as a windfall for manufacturers in any sector or country.”

Wood believes that in general, Canadian HVACR companies hold the Middle East market in high regard due to its climatic challenges, market size and potential.

“We think this market is still price-driven and not technologydriven,” observes Andy Beltrame, Sales and Marketing coordinator, Mafna Air Technologies Inc.

ADVANTAGE CANADA

The industry insiders think that

immigration, which he points out attracts the best minds from the world over to Canada.

“And the rest is looked after by itself,” he says.

Needless to say, all these factors have had both a cumulative and incremental effect on the country’s HVACR sector.

CUSTOMER IS KING

Wood believes that of all the factors, best practices and excellent customer service top the list of priorities as a company’s reputation in the market dictates future sales.

Beltrame concurs and adds that customisation is vital, as customers in Canada tend to buy what they need and not what manufactures have. “Mafna is an R&D-based manufacturing firm, and is riding this trend,” he says.

Fasanella, too, stresses that

best practices and customer service are fundamental values in which his company continuously invests. “It’s all about longterm added value to the customer and investing in our people is also something we strongly believe in,” he says.

Armstrong elaborates on this: “The history of ‘change’ in Canada and elsewhere suggests that the most effective lever for effecting change is a mature consumer. It would seem that the business strategy of operating as a ‘fast follower’ has many proponents within North America. Businesses are conservative in their approach to un-met customer needs but are quick to innovate as required, to take advantage of an obvious, growing opportunity.

At the same time, perhaps, nothing is more motivating to a business operation than a sharp drop in sales, as customers ‘vote with their feet’ to purchase products and services that provide greater utility.”

The other experts echo this view.

Fasanella believes that energy efficiency, not only of the equipment, but also of the complete system is becoming a trend. “It is becoming a systems approach or even a building approach to energy efficiency,” he observes. “Sealing ductwork quickly and efficiently with little or no product waste is also a trend. Carlisle HVAC has introduced ISAAC – the Inspecting, Sealing and Advanced Cleaning Robotic Solution. It enables the efficient remediation of existing HVAC systems. ISAAC can inspect, clean and seal ductwork from the inside, reaching

hard-to-reach places that are otherwise inaccessible. Also, the Hardcast Mobile Sealant Delivery System and SpraySeal are specially formulated for spray applications on the job site and are the best method for sealing ductwork in new construction remediation projects.

Targeted precision equals uniform duct sealant coverage, no overspray or reduced job site trash and less product waste. Improving indoor air quality and decreasing heating and cooling costs are other top priorities.”

Armstrong on its part has focused on making its HVAC solutions more energy-efficient through the

SUSTAINABILITY – INNOVATION AND TRENDS

Sustainability and innovation, as always, thrive on each other. Canada has witnessed a two-pronged approach in this regard – the government's aggressive push for stringent regulations and enforcement and customer demand for cost and energy-efficient products. Therefore, as with nearly all developed markets, energy-efficient alternatives to traditional products and methods have become the growing trend in Canada. This has created a competitive landscape in the country’s HVACR sector. The industry has been quick to respond to this.

“Environmental awareness and sustainability have completely shifted the culture of the industry by bringing attention to historically atrocious energy consumption by end-users, both industrial and residential,” Wood confirms. “These are key components, as they lead to quality designed and developed products.

Our company is continually looking to enhance or complement our existing energy-efficient products while developing new technologies that can improve on existing techniques.”

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country report CANADA

A strategic collaboration between Enwave Corporation and the city of Toronto has enabled downtown Toronto to tap the renewable source of energy for district cooling from Lake Ontario, using 90% less electricity than chillers would consume.

A natural and excellent alternative to conventional, energy-intensive air conditioning, Enwave’s Deep Lake Water Cooling (DLWC), which uses icy water from the depth of the lake, is regarded as the world’s largest lake-source cooling system.

This is how the system works: In winter, the surface of Lake Ontario cools to about 4°C (41°F). The density of the cold water increases, causing it to sink. Conversely, during the summer, the surface water heats up and remains at the surface because it is warm, as it is not dense enough to sink.

Consequently, no matter how hot the summer, the water in the deep recesses of the lake remains very cold. Over millennia,

application of variable speed technology. “Initially, our product development efforts had been focused on the simplification of variable speed. More recently, Armstrong has focused on energy on leveraging all the capabilities of variable speed to maximise energy efficiency,” the company says.

Armstrong seconds the view that research and product information inevitably lead companies to create improved solutions with greater customer utility. “Regulation serves in many instances at the ‘trailing edge’ to ensure that customers embrace new solutions,” the company says, and adds: “In advance of the enactment of regulation, the responsibility lies with companies to promote their own innovations. Collectively, these activities drive business growth. The trajectory of that growth – steady or unsteady – depends on the spirit of entrepreneurialism that exists 50

Photo from http://vanishingpoint.ca/enwave

Deep lake water cooling – a new way of tapping nature

this natural phenomenon has created a permanent reservoir of cold water at the bottom of the lake.

Enwave has installed three high-density polyethylene (HDPE) pipes along the natural slope of the lake bottom, which pump water from a depth of 83 metres. This water is transported to the Toronto Island Filtration Plant. The cold water is processed there and

Perhaps, nothing is more motivating to a business operation than a sharp drop in sales, as customers ‘vote with their feet’ to purchase products and services that provide greater utility within the individuals serving customers and competing to serve more customers in more distant markets.”

Amidst the euphoria about innovation, Beltrame cautions

Climate Control Middle East October 2012

channelised to Enwave's Energy Transfer Station at its pumping station.

Heat exchangers then enable energy transfer between the cold lake water and Enwave’s closed chilled water supply loop.

When this process is complete, the lake water flows to the city’s potable water system. It is not the water itself, but its coldness which is harnessed.

View of Toronto on shore of Lake Ontario, Canada that innovation cannot be forced, but adds that when it emerges naturally, based on an existing need, there is generally a high level of support for it in the industry, as is the case with sustainability and environmental awareness spurring innovation. “Canada is working to be in the top level with respect to energy conservation,” he adds.

It is difficult to ascertain if the Canadian model

of energy-efficiency, sustainability and best practices and the specific measures the country has used have had a positive influence on the Middle East HVACR market. “The world, in general, has recognised the need to reduce energy consumption,” says Wood.

“The Middle East is no different from any other region (including Canada) in that it takes time for widespread acceptance.”

DISTRICT COOLING

Interestingly, district cooling, which found acceptance in the GCC states, but became an unwitting casualty of the double dip, appears to elicit a lukewarm response from the industry insiders in Canada.

District cooling/district heating is not a viable option, and, hence, there has not been much focus on it, Beltrame reveals.

Armstrong agrees and adds: “Despite the strength of the concept, district cooling has not grown as quickly as expected. Given the positive reviews and strong support for the technology within the HVAC industry, it seems inevitable that district cooling will grow, as more communities are made aware of the potential for energy efficiencies and cost savings.”

THE RETROFIT SCENE

By all accounts, renovating buildings to make them more energy efficient than before has now become the norm rather than a trend in Canada. Beltrame pegs the retrofit market in Canada at 50% – a healthy figure.

Wood explains why: “As our climate dictates, energyefficient heating has always been imperative. Government rebate programmes on new build construction and building retrofits provide incentives for building owners/operators to install energy-efficient equipment.

These financial incentives help offset the additional cost of high-efficiency products, while minimising the demand for energy.” Speaking about his company, he says, “As our technology is relatively new to the market (less than 15 years) and a vast majority of buildings being built before

that time, retrofitting makes up well over half of our projects in Canada.”

Retrofit proves to be a less expensive exercise than new constructions in most cases, says Fasanella “If you remediate correctly, the labour and material cost can pay for itself quickly by energy saved in old, leaky, outdated buildings,” he points out. “And LEED is becoming a standard for almost every building going up.”

Armstrong adds that in many instances, building owners and operators focus on the near-term competitive issues that demand attention in order to adequately serve customers and remain viable as a business. “In a small percentage of instances, building owners are more secure with their finances or their competitive stance and are willing to make investments in a retrofit installation that involves a longer payback term,” the company says.

everyday operations.” But the company adds, “Examining the practices we see in the HVAC industry reveals that as much as Canadians understand these requirements, we still have room for improvement.”

When it comes to the Middle East, like any vibrant economy operating in a globally connected market, it can be expected that the region will experience strong growth over the next five to seven years, driven by the opportunities created by a growing population, Armstrong predicts.

Since it was environmental concerns which led to societal pressure, which in turn spurred reduction in energy consumption in Canada, the same model might get replicated in the Middle East,

believes Wood. “‘Newer’ technology, acceptance in the Middle East has been relatively straightforward, as the customer base is wellversed and highly educated,” he says. “However, as with most markets, the higher capital cost to implement our products deters customers initially.”

In Fasanella’s view, in the final analysis, although regulation and enforcement can certainly help the cause, it is products that get bought and sold. It is their ability to demonstrate long-term added value to the customers which ultimately drives best practices.

It is therefore, a good product which can act as a harbinger of positive change.

CONCLUSION

Riding on the crest of worldclass products and best practices, aided by industry regulations, Canada is at the vanguard of nations driving sustainability in the HVACR sector. The market has responded favourably to both industry and governmentdriven initiatives. But it is work in progress, as the country believes in constantly striving to cut costs and energy consumption.

“Within the Canadian economy, the most frequently used vehicle is industry regulation,” says Armstrong.

“Organisations operating in the Canadian economy generally recognise the need to incorporate best practices, including focused research and development into their October 2012

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cover story SWEDEN

G N I N E D E E H W S T 52

Climate Control Middle East October 2012

P I H S R E N T R A P ict d r t s ts rage i in cou f s lie s en n o cient ion r o ha io effi reg an t t c a s ’ en CR se hich ment rgy- GCC ives d we HVA rk, w ple ene the kar g S to the ewo d im and del han y ke s in fram t an ndly mo mas e Th cces ory men frie s – a a U su ulat elop tally stem atibh reg e dev men d sy e. Pr ario. th viron ts an ulat scen en duc o em the pro eds t w of ne ervie ov

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cover story

R SWEDEN

Regulation, awareness, innovation and conservation form the firm foundation on which Sweden’s HVACR industry has been built, and built to weather occasional storms like the recent economic downturn.

The market’s optimism is palpable. Lars Hargö, Vice President International Operations, Capital Cooling Energy Service, Sweden; Jesper Olsen, Market Manager, Industrial Refrigeration, Alfa Laval; and LarsOlof Johansson,

Technical Manager and Director, DEWKylsystem, Dubai and Sweden, represent this spirit, which they believe has emerged from the carefully nurtured culture of best practices across the HVACR spectrum. Their companies have

54 54

a presence in the region, and juxtaposed against the Middle East conditions, they find the contrast, perhaps, hard to miss.

Johansson echoes this when he stresses that it is business as usual in the post-global downturn scenario in Sweden, as the HVACR market has emerged relatively unscathed, while the GCC states are still experiencing its aftershocks “The investors and the industry took the chance to retrofit and replace/upgrade the systems to more energysaving systems to reduce operating costs,” he explains, and adds that unfortunately, this was not the case in the Middle East. He also points to the fact that Sweden has had a 20-year head start in the production of green energy and wind power, which makes it one of the market leaders in sustainable solutions in the HVACR sector. However, he astutely observes that the spectrum for investment and energysaving concepts/installations in the EU and Sweden has a lifespan of 20 to 50 years, whereas in the UAE and the region, the stakeholders look at a very short investment span. “Since a lot of people/ decision makers are here only for a short time of three to eight years, there is no interest,” he says.

The condition in the Middle East is improving, says Hargö, both from the fiscal and environmental perspective. Things are looking up at least in the refrigeration sector, which his company is involved in, with its regional head

Climate ClimateControl ControlMiddle MiddleEast East October October2012 2012

office in Dubai, believes Olsen. But Johansson sounds less sanguine. His company has a full-fledged presence in the region in design, installation and service of HVACR installations, and specialises in sustainable products with low-energy consumption and low-carbon emissions.

THE SWEDISH CONNECTION – THE REGIONAL OUTLOOK

Sweden, with its long experience and knowledge in the district energy infrastructure systems and HVACR equipment, has made inroads into the region. Its HVACR products have found favour with regional distributors, installers, contractors and system builders and have a competitive edge. An added advantage is that almost all products from Sweden fulfill the GCC requirements and specifications. The demand is for new system design and cost-effective solutions.

Also, given the climatic conditions in the region, the emphasis is on preserving vegetables at different temperatures and relative humidity. Therefore, a lot of Swedish products have been developed with this focus, believes Johansson.

He lists a few of Sweden’s HVACR exports: “Plate exchangers, compressors for natural refrigerants like R717 (Ammonia) and CO2, air coolers with extra surface area for better heat transfer, air sock system in cold stores for natural air movement inside the areas, passive cooling systems with energy storage inside the building construction, smart

All the countries around the world with similar climatic conditions have developed the best know-how and technology for cold stores and buildings BMS systems to use natural cooling from ambient air and water for ‘free cooling’, products of high standard and regulation for pressure testing of refrigeration systems to prevent leakage of HFC/HCFC into the atmosphere... There’s a long list!”

The wide gulf: Hargö estimates that while the massive government spending in housing and infrastructure in Saudi Arabia and Qatar translate into a positive contribution to Sweden’s export industry, the HVACR segment in the region is still relatively small. Says Olsen, “I can only talk about Alfa Laval, and it is definitely very positive for our business.”

Johansson, looking beyond the products and with his gaze set on sustainability, rhetorically asks, “The main issue is, how much are the clients focused on new technology or being in the frontline with green and energy-saving solutions?”

He, then, goes on to answer it: “If it’s a ‘normal HVACinstallation’ without any kind of specified targets,

cover story SWEDEN

In Sweden, every public and office building needs to be energy-declared by authorised companies and built to fulfill the demands set by the authorities Jesper Olsen

SymbioCity – lessons in urban sustainability

Swedish greentech is promoted globally under the concept (and the trademarked term), SymbioCity (www.symbiocity. org). SymbioCity – a city in symbiosis – is about sustainable urban development, an area where Swedish environmental technology has set a new standard.

Combining urban demands and sustainability, it is a layered approach, which, for example, turns waste into energy instead of landfills, and treats household wastewater to produce drinking water using modern cleaning technology. Along with household biowaste, wastewater serve as a resource for biogas production and fertilisers, while also addressing the urban issues of water supply, sanitation and waste management. Established in 2008, the programme’s avowed goal is to export Sweden’s knowledge and experience in creating sustainable cities.

Lars Hargö credits SymbioCity’s efforts for having a positive impact on the Sweden’s HVACR sector. Jesper Olsen agrees that it has helped advance the country’s HVACR technology and that increasing energy demand will continue to spur such innovations and new technologies. “The R22-phase out in the beginning of 2000 was like a gift to the market – the fear went on to become a win-win situation,” he says.

Lars-Olof Johansson, on the other hand, believes that the impact is rather the other way round. “The HVACR sector has been approximately 10 years ahead, since the regulations started in 1989 in the HVACR industry, whereas, all other areas/industries/concepts started around 2000,” he says. “SymbioCity is a thinktank about what can be

done with different solutions/ideas in a virtual world with all that is best from different building concepts.

But the major energy savings/ideas like heat-pumps, solar chillers and heat recovery systems are initiated from the HVACR industry itself, starting in the 1970s.”

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Climate Control Middle East October 2012

Lars Hargö

the chances for business are 0, as then, only the price of the installations will be the benchmark. Therefore, sorry to say, but this is probably the fact, since there are no signals from any country to improve either regulations or standards for building design – a lot of talking but no action.”

This leads one to take a serious look at implementation of sustainable and energyefficient measures in the region. While Olsen concedes that the region has been slow to pick up the global green trends, he believes that the ever-soaring energy prices will have an impact on practice and policies. “So, we have to wait and see,” he says cryptically, and adds, “In the end, it is a matter of money.”

Johansson endorses this view, but with a caveat when he says that there has been an increase in awareness to “a moderate extent” in the last few years, and has kept pace with the energy prices. “The Project managers are always looking at the price today,” he says. “Nobody in the UAE will get a chance to present something with the lowest lifecycle costs (LCC). In the EU and Sweden, it’s the LCC that is the main factor for decision makers.” Strong though the criticism may sound, it once again underscores the general perception that the region will take sustainable solutions

Lars-Olof Johansson

seriously only when things begins to hurt financially.

On the other hand, Hargö takes a more charitable view when he says that the growing awareness about green issues globally is reflected in a willingness to accept sustainable policies by people in the region and in governmental regulations.

He cites the example of the implementation of different kinds of building code systems, such as LEED in the region.

Olsen believes that if Sweden is looking for a longterm presence in the region, it needs to co-opt the GCC states’ support in building awareness about Sweden’s HVACR products and create better channels of communication to strengthen the partnership.

“The heat exchangers we have in our installed base will always be a strong tool to use in discussions with consultants, end-users, contractors and installers,” he says, pointing to a possible business strategy.

SWEDEN’S SUSTAINABILITY MANTRA

The key factors that lead to best practices in Sweden’s HVACR sector are the right regulations, legislation enforcement, a mature consumer base, where people and the government are aware of their societal and

environmental obligations, leading to the country’s culture of awareness, innovation and conservation.

It is, indeed, an ongoing process. Olsen explains the basics: “Sweden is and has always been a very innovative nation and promotes any kind of

education that brings the country and the individual to a higher level.

And after World War II, this has been a natural part of daily life. As we all see the benefits [of conservation], it does not normally create any conflicts as the availability of raw material and energy

are very important for our existence and competitiveness.

In Sweden, every public and office building needs to be energy-declared by authorised companies and built to fulfill the demands set by the authorities.

It definitely helps bring the technology forward.”

Johansson adds: “The main initiative came after 1973 – the oil crisis –when energy prices were skyrocketing by 400% within a week. The government, the industry, end-users and owners of HVAC installations realised that something drastic

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cover story SWEDEN

DH and DC

Sweden is quite a world leader in district heating and cooling with 89% of Swedish district heating being based on energy that would otherwise have been wasted. How has it achieved this? Lars-Olof Johansson credits its success to the country’s limited energy resources, aided by nature and spurred by smart thinking and the 1973 oil crisis, which saw new ideas and innovations in system designs. “And the second oil crisis of 1978-‘79 reinforced the will to find smart energy saving solutions,” says Johansson. He goes into the specifics: • In the big cities, we use cold seawater as the “cold” source during part of the year.

• We use a lot of ammonia systems with a higher COP and lower operating costs.

• We design all the larger heat exchanger areas with smaller temperature difference to minimise energy consumption.

• We design systems in smaller sections with higher efficiency at partial loads.

• We design piping systems with smaller pressure drops and lower pump energy consumption.

• We design pipe insulation with a very low insulation loss to reduce energy losses in the system on the ground.

• We use DC systems in small areas as a condenser system for smaller DC cooling stations.

• We use two-stage or cascade systems for better efficiency and total lower energy consumption.

Photo from www.thermaxindia.com

“Crisis is the initiating point of many innovations and discoveries,” Johansson concludes philosophically. But ironically, the crisis caused by the recent recession has had an adverse effect on the GCC region’s district cooling industry.

Lars Hargö thinks that Sweden’s DH-DC sector is largely driven

by Swedish ambition of eliminating fossil fuel dependency.

Also, the sector continued to do well in Sweden despite the recession, as it was not as severe as in the Middle East. He believes that right pricing and the model of investing in a new capacity when the market is on an upsurge, instead of the other way round, is a better strategy, which, was, perhaps, not the case in the region.

Jesper Olsen, too, blames the region’s district cooling woes on incongruent strategy. “Unlike in rest of the world, the [region’s] investment budget is seldom synchronised with the budget for operation, and this is an obstacle in the way of green thinking,” he says. “Also, remember, the reason why DHDC in Sweden is still taking market share is because we need a lot of heating. So the cold water is a beneficial ‘waste’ product from heat pumps, often used for DH.”

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Climate Control Middle East October 2012

For the standard HVACR companies without any kind of R&D of their own or an innovative concept, it will be a hard lesson then, the average energy consumption for houses/ offices/buildings in kWh/ year/m2 has been reduced to less than 50% compared to 1970. The use of the total electrical energy is down to the rate per capita as it was in 1970 and still going down.

The target is to come down to the level of 1955.”

Sweden, through the right policies and practices, has ensured that all new buildings comply with strict energy-efficiency measures. “A detailed energy consumption plan and lifetime plan for the systems has to be presented for all new projects before any type of building permits are granted,” Johnson reveals.

“There are also different maximum standards for the annual energy consumption in kWh/m2, depending on the use of the building. It is called Energy Warranty.”

When it comes to HVACR equipment, Hargö says that Sweden follows all the EU directives and standards applicable to the Middle East region. “The reliable trends are service and products which are resulting

in economic growth with environmental concern; growth and sustainability go hand in hand,” Hargö adds.

Refrigeration: Sweden’s breakthrough in technology is predicated to energy saving and climatic conditions. With long and cold winters and a single harvest season, apart from warm interiors, the country needs and boasts of highquality cold stores. “We have to store food for 12 months in order to survive, as we cannot buy fresh vegetables and food on a daily basis,” Johansson explains.

“Therefore, we have tried to be the “ice breaker” of new technologies. As far back as 1981, we started to replace R12 with salt and water in food stores – 10 years before anybody else did.”

He lists the new technologies in refrigeration: • Natural refrigerants with a high COP with very low impact on greenhouse effect • Full indirect systems with a very low content of refrigerant charges • Cascade system with CO2 for food stores and supermarkets “All the countries around the world with similar climatic conditions have developed the best knowhow and technology for cold stores and buildings – the closer you come to the equator, the less is the technology for such knowhow,” Johansson quips.

IAQ: Research in IAQ is one of Sweden’s top priorities, reveals Olsen. “The government has put a high premium on indoor

cover coverstory story SWEDEN SWEDEN

temperatures, indoor humidity levels and air freshness by controlling the CO2 content in offices and public buildings,” he says.

“Speaking on behalf of his company, he adds: “For Alfa Laval, it is, and has always been, very important to invest a respectable part of the turnover into R&D and competence. Individual competence is very important, not only for the individual but also for the company. Every new product we launch should be either a trend-setter or a mirror of the current trends. Products which create a better day for everyone is on the top.”

District heating: Swedish district heating, considered one of the

60

best systems in the world, is based on energy that would otherwise have gone to waste. “The number of industries close to the city centres has made it possible from early days to take care of the waste heat in a positive way,” Olsen elucidates. “Low energy cost was a good way to make the country grow.”

Hargö believes that the world-class district heating in Sweden is also largely driven by the country’s ambitious goal of phasing out fossil fuel-dependency. (For details on district heating and cooling see side-bar, titled DH and DC.) Johansson believes that the climate of good regulations and best practices offer a tremendous opportunity

Climate Control Middle East October 2012

for the HVACR sector for innovations, especially for the HVACR installers, which are in the frontline with new green technology and know-how. “For the standard HVACR companies without any kind of R&D of their own or an innovative concept, it will be a hard lesson,” he warns.

Johansson bemoans the fact that the innovations and the culture of conservation have not percolated to the Middle East. “Sorry to say, but there is very little response to or awareness about what is going on in the world around,” he says.

“The most dangerous types of refrigerants are still being allowed to be used in new installations in the UAE. Those types were banned in

The region presents a golden opportunity for the retrofit industry, waiting to be tapped Sweden from 1991.”

He points out that India has been quick to adapt to new technology. “India has the basic know-how,” he highlights. In his opinion, the key drivers in the refrigeration industry in India have been shortage of energy leading to power cuts, a conducive education

system that generates a large pool of HVAC engineers, long-lasting and a wider investment horizon and the political will.

RETROFITTING Legislation in the European Union encourages retrofitting of existing buildings, just as it ensures that all new buildings comply with

strict energy-efficiency norms.

In Olsen’s view, Sweden has a good retrofit market, also because a lot of public

buildings and offices were built in the last half of the 20th century. “Now we need to freshen up those buildings for new use,” he says.

Hargö estimates the percentage of retrofit projects in Sweden to be about 50%, while Johansson pegs it at 50 to 60% retrofit and 40 to 50% new installations.

However, the experts do not see this reflected in the Middle East. The fact remains that the region and the market are still young and most buildings are relatively new compared to those in Europe. Johansson, speaking from experience, says that the region presents a golden opportunity for the retrofit industry, waiting to be tapped. “If there is a retrofit programme for all buildings, warehouses, shopping malls, with new energy regulations for the future energy consumption, then we can do it,” he offers enthusiastically.

CONCLUSION

Typically, the key factors that nurture best practices in any country are legislation and enforcement and a society acutely aware of its joint responsibility and societal obligations towards the country and the environment.

Sweden scores on all these counts. It is, therefore, hardly surprising that the HVACR equipment from the country meet the requirements in the GCC. Regulation, awareness, innovation and conservation are evidently interlinked and complement one another. Heightened awareness at both public

and governmental levels about rising energy and environmental costs has spurred sustainable innovations and strict product and market regulations in Sweden. The industry experts are unanimous in their opinion that these factors have, together, played a pivotal role in helping the sector weather the economic storm to emerge stronger.

They also agree that the GCC states lag behind in these very areas, and need to pursue them with the same rigour as Sweden has, if they hope to reinvigorate the market in the region.

Sweden, say the experts, has learnt its lessons the hard way. Increasing energy costs and decreasing energy production due to new environmental demands saw closing down of coal/fossil and nuclear power stations.

“We have been through oil/energy crisis – short of demands, skyrocketing prices, power breakdowns...

So, we are trying to build a sustainable system based on our experience,” says Johansson.

“We all know that we have to take care of the resources that we borrow from our children,” says Olsen.

Perhaps, it is time for the GCC region to take advantage of the received wisdom from Sweden. But, any positive transformation, if it has to be enduring, has to emerge from the groundswell of the native soil, rather than being transplanted. As Olsen points out, it would be better to see sustainability “grow in a more natural way and without specific demands from the governments”. He disarmingly asks: “It is always a pleasure to see a seed grow, isn’t it?”

perspective BUILDING MANAGEMENT SYSTEM

MANAGE TO MANAGE Michael Scriven highlights the value of hard data and how turning it into useful information will become increasingly important.

A

s we continue to face a challenging economy, the performance of buildings as a financial asset is rising up the priority list in the business agenda.

Property fund managers are leading the way in maximising the returns on their investment in buildings by making them more energy efficient and sustainable. And there are lessons to be learnt from their practices.

62 62

The 40% Symposium, held in the UK by BRE at the end of 2011, introduced speakers from leading financial investors such as PRUPIM and Aberdeen Asset Management. These fund managers oversee hundreds of buildings around the world. For example, the PRUPIM portfolio consists of 740 buildings worth £18.5 billion. These experts made it clear that understanding the performance of the buildings they manage is vital.

Reflecting this, Nina Jackson, Director of Sustainability and Environment at PRUPIM said at the conference: “Why measure environmental performance?

Because you can’t manage what you don’t measure.”

Endorsing this view, I believe that even with any level of property investment, information on individual buildings is a matter of great interest.

Collecting data has several

Climate ClimateControl ControlMiddle MiddleEast East October October2012 2012

functions at this level.

It allows fund managers to prioritise assets for improvement plans and enables the managers to identify good operational practice that can be implemented in other properties. Hard data has real value for them.

This is a message that all building owners, FMs and energy managers within the UAE should take to heart.

Here, it needs to be pointed out that fund managers are well aware of the pressures of local energy prices and international legislation.

This affects all building management professionals, no matter how small or large their portfolio. Collecting data, and understanding how to turn it into useful information will become increasingly important. In this regard, sub-metering is the key. But knowing how to get the most from a building energy management system is also vital.

I think building owners and end-users should make 2012 the year in which they focus on collecting useable data from their building about its energy

Knowing how to get the most from a building energy management system is vital use and other performance factors. It doesn’t have to be complicated, but it is a very worthwhile project that will bear dividends in the long term. If pension fund managers are interested in sub-metering, it’s time to pay close attention! 

The writer is Business Development Manager, Optima International.

He can be contacted at: michael@optimain.ae.

case-in case-inpoint point

New HVAC pool design solves respiratory issues Oklahoma High School pool's IAQ has been graded the highest of nearly any pool in the United States at a recent Speedo Championship meet, thanks to a combination of its HVAC system and a Paddock Evacuator system that eliminates chloramines that cause Lifeguard Lung and other respiratory problems, claims Seresco. We bring you the case study.

INTRODUCTION

Even in perfect environments of proper ventilation, temperature and relative humidity, chlorine molecules attach to ammonia and other organics introduced by swimmers, resulting in a heavy, noxious gas that congregates at the pool’s water surface, causing respiratory irritations.

Natatorium (a building housing a swimming pool) ventilation design strategies typically direct supply air towards the perimeter and down to breathing zones at 64

the deck surface, but very little on the pool surface.

Seresco Technologies, which specialises in indoor pool and IAQ dehumidification, used a new combination of HVAC and exhausting chloramines from the pool surface, which now promises to be the future solution for Lifeguard Lung – a respiratory disease endemic among lifeguards – and other respiratory ailments, which plague swimmers at many of the nation’s indoor pool facilities. The new $19 million Oklahoma High School natatorium has earned

Climate Control Middle East October 2012

appreciation for its Indoor Air Quality (IAQ) with its innovative HVAC design.

THE BACKGROUND The new 50,000-squarefoot Jenks Trojan Aquatic Center (JTAC) in the small Tulsa suburb of Jenks, Oklahoma, passed its first major IAQ test with plaudits last March, hosting 626 swimmers, 80 coaches, 60 volunteers, 30 referees and more than 1,000 spectators at the Speedo Championship Series Central Zone Senior Sectionals. Similar major

Each 46,500cfm unit was used to recover compressor heat for pool water heating swim meets across the nation are frequently marred by poor breathing conditions brought

two custom-manufactured Seresco NE Series 64-tonne energy recovery dehumidification systems combined with one of the first applications of a new chloramines source capture/ exhaust system manufactured

by Paddock Pool Equipment Inc, Rock Hill, South Carolina, a commercial pool equipment manufacturer.

The Seresco units heated or cooled the space to 82°F and dehumidified to 55% relative humidity. Installed by the project’s mechanical contractor, Mechanical Air Systems Inc (MASI), Broken Arrow, Oklahoma, each 46,500-cfm unit was used to recover compressor heat for pool water heating. They also used energy-saving direct drive plenum fans

with variable frequency drive control.

Indoor air comfort and system operation was streamlined with WebSentry, Seresco’s proprietary factory-based 24/7 remote monitoring/control service that communicates with each unit’s Command Center via the Internet. The WebSentry connection to the JTAC’s dehumidifiers Command Center systems allowed factory technicians or authorised service techs to monitor and control more than 100 operating parameters, including realtime refrigerant pressures – avowedly an HVAC industry first.

The ventilation specification added Paddock’s new Evacuator, a

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on by chloramines buildup not properly removed by the facility design and HVAC system. However, the JTAC and its 50-metre, 13,000-square-foot pool, say the event officials, proved that the school natatorium can act as a model for designs and retrofits.

CASE STUDY

Led by Ben Ferem, Jenks Public School’s District Executive Administrator, the design team included, consulting engineer firm SHW Group, Plano, Texas; architect, Mark Bragg, principal, KSQ Architects, Tulsa; Pool Consultant

Richard Scott, AIA, principal, Aquatics Excellence, Austin, Texas; and two manufacturer representatives for Georgiabased dehumidifier manufacturer, Seresco USA Inc –Engineered Equipment Inc (EEI), Tulsa, and Texas Air Systems, Irving, Texas.

More than 625,000 TR of installed capacity

Aim:

The aim of the project was to maximise indoor air comfort and system operation and minimise respiratory problems of those using the pool facilities. In order to achieve this, it was important to reduce chloramines.

Methods employed:

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JTAC gave specifications for

October 2012

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65

case-in point The WebSentry connection to the JTAC’s dehumidifiers Command Center systems allowed factory technicians or authorised service techs to monitor and control more than 100 operating parameters, including realtime refrigerant pressures – avowedly an HVAC industry first chloramines source capture/ exhaust plenum-type of device integrated into one width of the pool gutter system that draws and exhausts chloramines directly off the pool surface.

The exhaust air contribution from the chloramines source capture/exhaust system was factored into the building’s overall negative pressurisation, which is a critical design criterion in all natatoriums. While it can exhaust independently of the dehumidifiers, the project saved significant equipment 66

costs, because the chloramines source capture/exhaust system is ducted to fans in the Seresco units, which carefully monitor and control the entire building pressurisation status via their Command Center microprocessors.

Equally important was the positioning of the chloramines source capture/ exhaust system at the pool edge nearest the natatorium’s return air grille, which helps draw chloramines towards the evacuation system. Pool builder KC Gunite Inc, Belton, Missouri, installed the 174 x 75-foot pool, pool equipment, gutter system and the chloramines source capture/ exhaust system.

Even though chloramines’ reduction will extend the facility’s lifecycle longer than most indoor pools, KSQ Architects’ design team led

by Bragg still chose materials that withstand the hostile environments of natatoriums.

The entire pool surface was tiled instead of plastered, for example. And many square feet of wall surface use Kerlite, Sassuolo, Italy, porcelain wall coverings that resist corrosion and

Climate Control Middle East October 2012

coordinate with the pool tile texture.

SHW Group’s ventilation design was created to maintain a comfortable environment in the 1,200seat spectator section. The dehumidifiers were installed strategically to condition the area for typical daily use.

But in the event of heavily attended swimming meets, the HVAC system also activates an AAON, Tulsa, Oklahoma, conventional make-up air package unit that functions as a back-up when temperature or CO2 target levels can’t be maintained during full occupancy.

Another integral part of the ventilation design was white Sedona-Xm premium textile HVAC duct, which has an antimicrobial agent built

into the material to minimise the harboring of biological contaminants that commonly occur in natatorium metal ductwork. Manufactured by DuctSox, Peosta, Iowa, the main pool area has four runs of 54-inch-diameter duct each with two airflow devices for adjusting air distribution inside the duct.

The linear array of vents was installed to span the entire length to assure an even and gentle distribution.

The factory-engineered Comfort-Flow air dispersion porosity was integrated to allow a small percentage of air to flow through the fabric to eliminate dust buildup and condensation. The spectator area was fitted with a 42-inch-diameter duct from its dedicated HVAC system.

CONCLUSION

With a heavily attended meet such as the Speedo Championships, the JTAC proved that it was a role model with a design that should be considered in all new and retrofitted natatoriums.

The meet’s US swimming referee and 2012 Central Zone Officials’ Chairman, Stephen Potter, surveyed 100 participants on JTAC’S facility conditions and recorded a 3.9-rating (on a scale of 1 to 4) evaluation for IAQ. It was by far the highest recorded air quality rating in the last 10 major meets held in the seven-state region’s premier venues. The JTAC’S IAQ was rated the best the officials had seen at a major swimming

competition. There were no signs of coughing or burning eyes witnessed and the environment was regarded comfortable for swimmers and spectators alike.

Other positive outcomes: • The dehumidifiers’ heat recovery capability offers the district the opportunity to integrate free 80°F pool water heating in future.

• Besides the IAQ, the benefit of maintaining tight relative humidity and temperature tolerances, the units also save JTAC operating costs through energy efficiency.

• On days with ideal outdoor conditions, the system also shifts into economiser mode for

•

additional energy savings.

Unit operation, monitored daily by the factory, can detect operating trends or component failures that might affect the HVAC conditions in the natatorium. In the event of a performance alarm, the unit sends notifying emails to authorised Jenks employees. The vital statistics, and especially recorded trending information, gives Seresco factory technicians enough details to help support local HVAC service technicians on any issue that arises.

FEEDBACK

“Venues struggling with air quality should make a trip

to Jenks to see their unique set-up and the facility should be strongly considered for the next available Central Zone or Sectional Championships,” said Potter, a 45-year veteran of swimming competition.

“The success of this facility is really due to the foresight of the design team,” echoed George Villarreal, JTAC’s manager and a 20-year swimming industry veteran.

Note: This non-proprietary case study focuses on the architect and mechanical engineer’s design vision and mentions many architectural and HVAC brands such as DuctSox and Kerlite, as well as the pool builder and the mechanical contractor.

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67

Spotlight This is the first in a multi-part, in-depth series on air filtration

THE NEED TO

QUANTIFY After providing a broad sweep of the various issues involved in air filtration in his scientifically researched and highly acclaimed first series, Dr Iyad Al-Attar begins his new series, wherein he conducts an in-depth analysis of the subject and offers his erudite insights. In Part I, he argues that the science of air filtration is driven by its quest for perfection, which is why filter testing is critically important.

T The physics of the air movement is fundamental to the behaviour of suspended particles. MPPS (Most Penetrating Particle Size) shifts to a smaller particle size as the face velocity increases.

The real challenge lies in inculcating professional air filtration practices.

The important question we need to ask ourselves at this juncture is: By becoming acutely aware of the escalating energy costs, increasing frequency of sand storms, reoccurring volcanic

68

eruptions and the dynamics of environmental changes, could we orchestrate our techniques, approaches and attitudes to confront all these challenges?

THE DAILY DAYDREAM

I notice wet streets every day when I drive to work.

Presumably, this is a result of the early morning domestic car washing activity, which takes place on a daily basis.

It makes me wonder if it is possible to quantify the amount of water used per carwash. As a corollary, I think that it would be a fruitful exercise to obtain the figures for the amount of water wasted by subtracting the minimum amount of water required from the total amount of water actually used. A ballpark estimate

Climate Control Middle East October 2012

Performance assessment requires data acquisition about the relevant characteristics to serve the intended purpose, namely, appropriate filter selection tells me that the amount of water used per carwash is over three litres per day, which surely exceeds the daily water intake of an average adult per day1.

If we think of how much it costs governments to supply a litre of water to our homes through desalination plants,

piping networks and filtration systems, we will realise its value. And if we give a serious thought to people in the third world countries who thirst for a drop of water regardless of its potable quality, I am sure we will not be able to waste water with such impunity.

Using water provided by the municipality to excessively clean cars is, therefore, an avoidable luxury. Some may even argue that hard water could affect the car paint in the long run and advise treating the water to remove its hardness prior to treating the cars to the “softest-ever car washing spa experience�.

Typically, at this point, my daydreaming ends, as I arrive at my workplace.

However, no matter how much we make ourselves oblivious to the

environmental changes around us, the odious stench of the harsh reality will certainly remind us that facts will not cease to exist just because we ignore them – that our natural resources are limited and energy is not free and that this will eventually prove cataclysmic to our planet. It will not be long before we are compelled to change our perspective and shift our focus towards quantifying the impact of our actions on the resources we have.

QUANTIFICATION – A SACRED DUTY

In my early years of engineering, I was taught that engineers are born to quantify.

We were, therefore, instructed to describe physical quantities precisely. Expressions such as “The destination is very far/

very near; the mass is very heavy/very light; the volume is very large/very small” were no longer acceptable in the engineering context.

Precision was the aim. This was realised and facilitated by quantification using accurate units of measurement.

By the same token, in the field of air filtration, expressions, such as “This filter has good/very good/ excellent efficiency” do not amount to a valid statement, and in certain contexts, could be misleading or a major cause of confusion.

To assess the efficiency of a filter, we need to use the right engineering terms denoting the performance characteristics and numerical quantification in a manner that is universally accepted and referred to.

Figure 1: Typical fractional efficiency curve around the MPPS

Figure 2: Initial efficiency according to DIN 1822 versus particle size for different flow rates for a HEPA filter

THE QUEST FOR PRECISION

The science of air filtration is driven by its quest for precision and certainty, which makes filter testing critically important. Such testing requires facilities and applicable experimental methods to provide the desired data for filter performance assessment.

The precision and budgetary aspects are no less important to making the data available; the two aspects are usually directly proportional.

Performance assessment requires data acquisition about the relevant characteristics to serve the intended purpose, namely appropriate filter selection. Clearly, an engineering process such as filtration requires accurate quantification, which consequently presupposes a fundamental understanding of the physics involved. This prerequisite is absolutely essential. We, therefore, need to realise the importance of measurements and of describing a quantity in terms of precisely defined units.

When the filtration process is addressed, the physics of the particle motion is fundamental, as it defines the flow of air over and around the particle movement in relation to the air itself, and to a surface such as a filter fibre. It would also set the stage to establish the discussion of studying particle deposition and the corresponding mechanisms.

Further, the physics of particle motion is important not only in filtration but also in the process of sampling, as it would explain the fluid mechanics of air flow in the vicinity of the aerosol sampler2.

INITIAL FRACTIONAL EFFICIENCY, PARTICLE SIZE AND FACE VELOCITY

When the term “initial” is used in addressing the “efficiency and pressure drop”, it signifies assessing the filter performance prior to any dust loading. The filter efficiency is reported at the MPPS, which is the particle size that the filter scores its minimum efficiency at.

Let us review the basic concept before we examine the impact of face velocity variations on filter efficiency.

Figure 1 illustrates a typical efficiency-particle size relation, which shows that as the particle size increases, the efficiency decreases, until the MPPS is reached. Beyond the MPPS, the efficiency increases with increase of particle size. It also highlights the region where diffusion, interception and impaction dominate respectively, as well as the shaded region which represents uncollected particles by the air filter.

Therefore, the objective is to minimise the shaded region as much as possible.

At this point, we need to ask ourselves how face velocity variations affect the fractional efficiency.

The relationship between initial fractional efficiency versus the particle size and face velocity are illustrated in Figure 2. Filter efficiency decreases with the increase of the filter face velocity (flow rates: 500, 1,000 and 1,500 m3/h) for particle sizes surrounding the MPPS region. At finer particle size, Brownian motion increases with decreasing particle size and the diffusive deposition of particles increases as particle size decreases. At larger particle size beyond MPPS,

Spotlight

the effect of face velocity on the efficiency becomes increasingly negligible3.

Another observation in the same Figure concerns the shift of the MPPS to a smaller particle size as the face velocity increases. It is evident that the shaded region discussed earlier increases with the increase of face velocity, which represents lower overall filter efficiency.

Determining the MPPS is of vital importance, because the corresponding minimum efficiency is a dominant consideration in the design and operation of air filters.

Efficiency measurement for particle size range around the MPPS region is critically important for the following reasons: • It determines the particle size at which the filter scores its minimum efficiency, and consequently, this particle size becomes the MPPS of the filter at tested flow rate (face velocity). In other words, the filter efficiency is reported at the MPPS at the rated air flow.

• Any minor variation,

inconsistencies and/ or lack of precision in measuring fractional efficiency could misinform us of the data of the MPPS position on the efficiency curve. This would lead to reporting incorrect minimum efficiency, since the MPPS would also be incorrect.

It is important to note that operating the filter at higher face velocities than the rated one would lead to performance deviation from the associated test report.

70

By becoming acutely aware of the escalating energy costs, increasing frequency of sand storms, reoccurring volcanic eruptions and the dynamics of environmental changes, could we orchestrate our techniques, approaches and attitudes to confront all these challenges?

would shorten air residence time in the vicinity of fibre surface, which leads to lower likelihood of a particle to be captured by a fibre surface, thus reducing diffusive deposition.

margins while satisfying the overall purpose of air filtration, the real challenge lies in bringing to the transaction the added touch to serve humanity by inculcating professional air filtration practices through precise quantification. 

our attitude towards it in the first place – whether we regard it as a science that demands development or simply a business transaction driven by price reduction that requires marketing.

Unfortunately, many of us believe that any technology, regardless of its nature and application, will eventually get commercialised and marketed. Marketing air filters necessitates acquiring the requisite technical background knowledge to be able to appropriately recognise customers’ needs and competently identifying ways that would serve both the end-user and the application at hand. While filter manufacturers aim to strike a balance between maintaining sustainable profit

Standards, Instrumentation and Applications” John Wiley & Sons, Inc. 3 Pramod Kulkarni (Editor), Paul A. Baron (Editor), Klaus Willeke (Editor)., 2005. “Aerosol Measurement: Principles, Techniques, and Applications”.

Second Edition, John Wiley & Sons, Inc.

It is important to note that operating the filter THE HUMAN TOUCH at higher face velocities Air filtration is a science that the lives of humans References: than the rated one would touches on a daily basis. But before we 1 http://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/ lead to performance improve it and make it a more Drinking_water 2 deviation from the efficient tool at our disposal, Vincent, James H. 2007. it is important to determine “Aerosol Sampling: Science, associated test report Another aspect to be considered seriously is particle re-entrainment and the role face velocity elevation could play in it. Reentrainment of fine particles occurs as particles could get detached after they have attached themselves to the fibre surface. This could also alter the MPPS. Increasing the air flow rate (face velocity) could cause surface area losses and, consequently, reduce permeability. When the total effective surface area is reduced, it contributes further to the increase of air velocity.

This would simply suggest that in actuality, less filtration media is participating in the filtration action. Further, it

Climate Control Middle East October 2012

The writer is a renowned air filtration consultant.

He can be contacted at iyad@iyadalattar.com

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