Stephen Lisk President
CIBSE
The Latest Updates Finding the Right Fit: Flexible Duct Connectors that Will Suit Your Needs Advanced HVAC Solutions Put Users First Are You an Engineer with Leadership Aspirations? Six Reasons Why Executive and Professional Education Could Be Your Secret Weapon New Frontiers: Safe Berthing with Rubtech and its Marine Rubber Fenders
More Work, Less Time How Engineers Can Optimize Their Schedule For Maximum Productivity How Engineers Can Get More Done Without Extending Work Hours How Engineers Can Gain Credibility With Little to No Experience Should Engineers Adapt the 3-Hour Work Day?
JUNE 2018 ISSUE NO. 014
Publisher GineersNow Inc. Level 10-1 One Global Place, 5th Avenue & 25th Street, BGC, Taguig, Philippines Tel: +632 2242 000 Global Sales Office Lincoln Martin FZE Level 14, Boulevard Plaza Tower 1, MBR Boulevard, Emaar Square, Downtown Dubai. P.O. Box 334036 United Arab Emirates Tel: +971 50 4289684
Disclaimer: The publishers regret that they cannot accept liability for error or omissions contained in this publication, however caused. The opinions and views contained in this publication are not necessarily those of the publishers. Readers are advised to seek specialist advice before acting on information contained in this publication, which is provided for general use and may not be appropriate for the readers’ particular circumstances. The Copyright Law of the United States of America, Chapter 1, Subject 107, called the “Limitations on exclusive rights: Fair use” states that, “Notwithstanding the provisions of sections 106 and 106A, the fair use of a copyrighted work, including such use by reproduction in copies or phonorecords or by any other means specified by that section, for purposes such as criticism, comment, news reporting, teaching (including multiple copies for classroom use), scholarship, or research, is not an infringement of copyright. In determining whether the use made of a work in any particular case is a fair use the factors to be considered shall include— (1) the purpose and character of the use, including whether such use is of a commercial nature or is for nonprofit educational purposes; (2) the nature of the copyrighted work; (3) the amount and substantiality of the portion used in relation to the copyrighted work as a whole; and (4) the effect of the use upon the potential market for or value of the copyrighted work.”
GineersNow Team Ems Bagatsing
Robert Bagatsing
Director ems@gineersnow.com
Director editor@GineersNow.com
TV Alyssa Mae Gonzaga
Editors
Engr. Alice Hernandez
Afsana Alam
Senior Producer & TV Host
Senior Editor-At-Large
Guest Editor, United Arab Emirates
Hareem Khalid
John Vauden
Engr. Emmanuel Stalling
Asia-Pacific TV Host & Producer
Senior Editor, Asia-Pacific
Guest Editor, North America
Terence Mponjoli Africa TV Host & Producer
Charity Bagatsing
Patricia Eldridge
Senior Editor, North America
Guest Editor, United Kingdom
Engr. Mohammad Hisham
Hina Sapra
Engr. Mary Lucas
Middle East TV Host & Producer
Senior Editor, South Asia
Editor & Social Media Champion
Abdullah Askari
Raymond Gerard del Valle
Engr. Jennifer Marie Heyns
Middle East TV Host & Producer
Junior Editor
Editor & Social Media Champion
Emily Hussam
Engr. Dion Greg Reyes
Engr. Franklin Taylor
Russia & Europe TV Host
Junior Editor
Editor & Social Media Champion
Suad AlKhoury
Engr. Cielo Panda
Engr. Maryam Khalid
Middle East TV Host
Junior Editor
Editor & Social Media Champion
Earl Francis Pagdanganan
Therese Matheren
Engr. Mara Thomas
Asia-Pacific TV Host
Senior Editor, North America
Editor & Social Media Champion
Jen Rey Fernandez
Engr. Randy Williams
Engr. Malak Al Banna
Asia-Pacific TV Host
Guest Editor, North America
Editor & Social Media Champion
Khristoper Ayerdi Delgado
Amanda Pelletier
Engr. Rania Koury
Asia-Pacific TV Host
Guest Editor, North America
Editor & Social Media Champion
Sales Majah de Asis
Engr. Aaron Kesel
Engr. Kevin Facun
Guest Editor, North America
Guest Writer
Marketing Executive, Asia-Pacific Region
Margaret Banford
Engr. Francis Bautista
Giann Fanuga, RN
Guest Editor, United Kingdom
Guest Writer
Marketing Executive, EMEA Region
Distribution and Social Media Engr. Faye Barnes Digital Magazine & Social Media Champion
Engr. Nada Karam Print Magazine Champion
Engr. Dina Fares Blog & Social Media Champion
I.T Goran Ćulibrk Marketing and I.T Manager
Design Anthony Lucero Video Editor, Creative & Layout
Cris Lasmarias Graphic Designer & Video Editor
Kevin Candelaria Graphic Designer & Video Editor
In this month’s cover story for HVACR Leaders, we are featuring Chartered Institution of Building Services Engineers (CIBSE) and its new President, Stephen Lisk. CIBSE, a professional body with a global network, provides its members and the public with top quality information and education services while it promotes the career of building services engineers. CIBSE provides first-rate services that focus on maintaining and improving professional excellence throughout one’s career. In this exclusive feature prepared by its President, Mr. Lisk, for GineersNow, learn more about the institution’s vision, its programs and its membership. Aside from his role as President, get to know Mr. Lisk’s background as a lighting engineer and his CIBSE journey.
EDITOR’S NOTE
We have also included several special features on the magazine such as the following: • • • • •
Finding the Right Fit: Flexible Duct Connectors that Will Suit Your Needs Advanced HVAC Solutions Put Users First Are You an Engineer with Leadership Aspirations? Six Reasons Why Executive and Professional Education Could Be Your Secret Weapon New Frontiers: Safe Berthing with Rubtech and its Marine Rubber Fenders Global Demand for Air Conditioning Will Triple by 2050, New Research Says
We prepared helpful articles for engineers who want to get more work done without working overtime. Forget about extending work hours to beat the deadline. Learn how you can do your work in the least amount of time. Find out how you can optimize your schedule for maximum productivity! Read about our special feature on gaining credibility with little to no experience as well! Lastly, find out whether engineers should adapt the 3-hour work day or now. So go ahead, scroll through our pages and read the latest stories that put the spotlight on the HVACR industry. It’s that time of the month to sit back and relax. Get your monthly dose of engineering and technology news and stories with GineersNow: HVACR Leaders!
Engr. Alice Hernandez Senior Editor-at-Large
Regional Office: LG Electronics Gulf FZE, P.O Box 61445, Dubai. Tel: +971 4 279 9222, UAE, Mr. Dharmesh Sawant, Tel: +971 50 559 9361, email: dharmesh.sawant@lge.com; Fortune International Trading LLC, Mr. Wail Halbouni, Tel: +971 50 481 3570, email: fortintl@emirates.net.ae; Ghantoot Trading, Mr. Nour Haboush, Tel: +971 50 109 4109, email: nour.h@ghantootgroup.ae; District Cooling Company, Mr. Ahmed Henedi, Tel: +971 50 658 4832, email: ahmed@districtcoolingcompany.com; Al Yousuf Electronics, Mr. Moitra, Tel: +971 50 457 6170, email: pmoitra@alyousuf.com; Bahrain, AJM Kooheji and Sons, Mr. Jayachandran, Tel: +973 36888801, email: v.jayachandran@ajmkooheji.com: Kuwait, Al Babtain Air Conditioning & Refrigeration Co., Mr. Naji Kataya, Tel: +965 5 051 5771, email: nkataya@albabtaingroup.com kw; British Link Kuwait, Mr. Imad Rhayel, Tel: +965 5 157 1229, email: irhayel@blk.com.kw; Oman, Oman Gulf Enterprise, Mr. Narender Kumar, Tel: +968 9 747 4505, email: narenderk@otegroup.com; Aspire Projects and Service, Mr. Vivek Wagh, Tel: +968 99357694, email: vivekwagh@aspireoman.com; Qatar, Video Home Electronics Centre, Mr. Adharsh N Kumar, Tel: +974 5 019 0206, email: adharsh@jumboqatar.com; Mohammad Hayil Group, Mr. Yousif Rustom, Tel: +974 7 001 7067, email: yousif.rustom@alsarh-holding.com; Azerbaijan, NBC LLC., Mr. Elkhan Sadikhov, Tel: +994 50 216 3363, email: elkhan.sadikhov@nbc.com; Al-Con Maxiwell Group, Mr. Vagif Alexperov, Tel: + 994 50 216 2092, email: maxiwellbaku@inbox.ru; Armenia/Georgia, ARAY Gulf, Mr. Vilson Melikjanyan, Tel: +374 9 307 7755, email: vilson@aray.am; Yemen, Modern House Exhibition, Mr. Khaled Jabr, Tel: +967 71 172 0202, email: mail@mhe-yemen.com; Pakistan, Iceberg Industries (Lucky Goldstar), Mr. Imran Jamil Khan, Tel: +923 21 277 6100, email: ceo@icebergindustries.net
Contents Global Demand for Air Conditioning Will Triple by 2050, New Research Says
8
New Frontiers: Safe Berthing with Rubtech and its Marine Rubber Fenders
34
Atlas Copco Launches ZR 90-160 VSD+ Air Compressor With Up To 35% Less Energy Consumption
10
Al Salem Johnson Controls (YORK) Highlights Latest HVAC Technologies
36
Are You an Engineer with Leadership Aspirations? Six Reasons Why Executive and Professional Education Could Be Your Secret Weapon
12
Titus&Wayne Launched Luft Qi Filter-Free Air Purifier on Indiegogo
38
Finding the Right Fit: Flexible Duct Connectors that Will Suit Your Needs
40
How Engineers Can Get More Done Without Extending Work Hours
14
Should Engineers Adapt the 3-Hour Work Day?
42
How Engineers Can Gain Credibility With Little to No Experience
16
Schneider Electric, Danfoss and Somfy Join Forces to Create a Connectivity Ecosystem
44
How Engineers Can Do More In Less Time
18
48
CIBSE: To Improve Is To Change
20
Axiom Exergy Raises $7.6 Million for Thermal Energy Storage Technology Designed for Grocery Stores and Cold Storage Facilities
Advanced HVAC Solutions Put Users First
32
How Engineers Can Optimize Their Schedule For Maximum Productivity
50
Global Demand for Air Conditioning Will Triple by 2050, New Research Says As global temperatures continue to rise, the need for air conditioning will increase as well for more people to stay comfortable. Through the years, air conditioning has become a necessity in helping us stay cool in the midst of hot summer weathers and according to new research, the global demand for air conditioning will triple over the next 30 years. The International Energy Agency has released a new study that shows the fast increase of air conditioning systems around the globe. The study noted that around 1.6 billion buildings come equipped with air conditioning units. That number is expected to be 5.6 billion by 2050. That “amounts to 10 new ACs sold every second for the next 30 years,” the IEA report noted. According to the IEA’s executive director, Fatih Birol, “Growing electricity demand for air conditioning is one of the most critical blind spots in today’s energy debate. With rising incomes, air conditioner ownership will skyrocket, especially in the emerging world. While this will bring extra comfort and improve daily lives, it is essential that efficiency performance for ACs be prioritized. Standards for the bulk of these new ACs are much lower than where they should be.” The IEA study explained that one of the biggest drains on the air conditioning pull could come from India. Today, air conditioning in India 8
HVACR Leaders • June 2018
constitutes to around 10 percent of India’s entire electricity usage. However, the report has pointed out that it could increase to 45 percent air conditioning usage by 2050 given the population trends and economic growth of the country. As global temperatures continue to rise, the need for air conditioning will increase as well for more people to stay comfortable. The IEA’s solution is to encourage more efficient air conditioning units that uses less electricity to operate. Their study noted that the air conditioning units that are sold in Europe and Japan are often 25 percent more efficient that units that are sold throughout the United States and China. The study also warned that “large investments in new power plants to meet peak power demand at night” are needed. “Setting higher efficiency standards for cooling is one of the easiest steps governments can take to reduce the need for new power plants, and allow them at the same time to cut emissions and reduce costs,” Birol said. According to the IEA’s calculations, these mandatory standards could slash energy costs in half and could lead to roughly $2.9 trillion in savings in energy investments, fuel costs, and operating costs.
Atlas Copco Launches ZR 90-160 VSD+ Air Compressor With Up To 35% Less Energy Consumption lubricated bearings for a long maintenance-free lifetime. Moreover, all service parts are grouped together for ease of access for a minimal service time.” All components in the compressor element, such as the rotor profiles, smart inlet (patent pending) and rotor coating, have been redesigned for maximum efficiency and durability. The design and sealing of the venting chamber ensure physical separation between the oil and air circuits, eliminating any possibility of oil entering the compressed air chamber and thus guaranteeing Class 0 oil-free air.
The latest oil-free rotary screw air compressor from Atlas Copco, the ZR 90-160 VSD+, delivers up to 35% energy savings for a fast return on investment. Ideal for applications in the food & beverage, electronics, automotive, textile and pharmaceutical industries, the watercooled ZR 90-160 VSD+ is equipped with two high-efficiency permanent magnet motors, state-of-the-art compressor elements, a new cooler design and an improved monitoring system. This plug-and-play compressor is housed in a compact, soundproof enclosure. It’s the latest air compressor in Atlas Copco’s smart AIR solutions portfolio. The drive design of the ZR 90-160 VSD+ incorporates Atlas Copco’s most sophisticated Variable Speed Drive (VSD) technology: NEOS drives combined with permanent magnet motors. The dual motor concept with a smart control algorithm allows both elements to be run at different speeds, which optimizes efficiency. “By adjusting output to match actual needs, the ZR 90-160 VSD+ significantly cuts energy consumption, costs and environmental impact,” says Jeroen Hoen, Product Manager Oil-free compressors. “The internal IP66 water-cooled permanent magnet motors, designed for classleading efficiency and high reliability, contain oil10
HVACR Leaders • June 2018
The redesigned cooler incorporates a highly efficient water separator. Parallel water flow optimizes cooling of the motor, element and the cooler itself. Enlarged stainless steel surface coolers improve cooling efficiency and ensure top performance over a long lifetime. The NEOS drive communicates directly with the new, user-friendly Elektronikon® Mk5 Touch Controller to optimize system pressure and maximize energy efficiency. Mk5 Touch includes warning indications, maintenance scheduling and online visualization of the machine’s condition. The data monitoring program SMARTLINK is integrated as standard. This remote monitoring system provides analysis of the whole compressed air system on how you can reduce energy cost and plan your preventive maintenance. The ZR 90-160 VSD+ works together with the Atlas Copco’s new Optimizer 4.0 central controller. It enables a compressed air system to be optimized through selection of the most efficient combination of air compressors while assuring supply of required pressure and having balanced running hours. Air dryers can also be monitored through Optimizer 4.0. With the highly intuitive user interface, the end-user can view the performance and energy consumption of each machine as well as of the whole system. Optimizer 4.0 can also be monitored through a customer’s PC. The ZR 90-160 VSD+ can be included in a Total Responsibility Plan, in which Atlas Copco takes care of all compressor maintenance, upgrades, repairs and possible breakdowns.
220 Million Reach Advertise Now E: Ems@gineersnow.com M: +971 50 4289684
World’s first viral engineering magazine www.GineersNow.com
Are You an Engineer with Leadership Aspirations? Six Reasons Why Executive and Professional Education Could Be Your Secret Weapon Those who are successful in reaching the highest echelons of the engineering profession are often those who have allocated time and energy to their ongoing education. Rising to the top of one’s organization or industry is no easy feat. With an increasingly competitive workforce of ambitious contenders in the engineering sector, it comes as no surprise that navigating the ranks of middle management and then executive roles take hard work and commitment. Indeed, there are instances in which hard work and dedication alone are not enough to secure a top position. Those who are successful in reaching the highest echelons of the engineering profession are often those who have allocated time and energy to their ongoing education. Here, Dr. Ilias Visvikis, Director of the Center for Executive and Professional Education (CEPE) at American University of Sharjah, sets out six reasons why a commitment to 12
HVACR Leaders • June 2018
continuous learning can be the defining factor when it comes to standing out in a tightly held engineering workforce. 1. Undertaking a professional or executive education program keeps you up-to-date with the latest developments in your industry or profession. This is especially important for engineers, where rapid changes in technology mean that skills and knowledge to be renewed on an ongoing basis. Failing to keep up can lead to falling behind from a technical perspective, and becoming sidelined by new recruits possessing more recent education and training. 2. However, becoming a leader in the engineering sector relies on more than technical skills alone. You can be the very best
competitive among a group in a foreign country that you would not have otherwise had a good chance of succeeding in. 6. One of the most under-rated benefits of executive and professional education to a person’s career is the sense of confidence it gives them – confidence that is absolutely essential when it comes to convincing their employers that they are up to the task of leadership, and essential to effectively leading their team once they have won their new position.
Dr. Ilias Visvikis
engineer from a technical standpoint, but this far from assures your progression into higher management. Leaders need leadership skills, and often these are not the skills you learn during your degree. A professional or executive education program can help you gain confidence in new areas, such as communication and influencing skills, financial know-how, management ability, and a whole host of other capabilities that are essential to gaining – and maintaining – a leadership role. 3. One of the best ways you can secure your long-term career prospects is by developing an extensive professional network, full of other like-minded professionals. Joining an executive or professional education program is a great way to build your network, and establish meaningful relationships with people who one day could be the key to getting your dream job. 4. Importantly, completing professional and executive education programs evidence to future employers your commitment to your career progression. It shows you take your career seriously, verifying to those on interview panels that you have the drive and ambition to learn the skills and acquire the knowledge you need to move into a leadership position. 5. Executive and professional education courses also afford you the opportunity to broaden the geographical location in which you are seeking a promotion. Having a course under your belt from an institution that is known and respected internationally can help you break into a new overseas market, and make you
Of course, professional and executive education is not just beneficial to those undertaking it. Evidence shows that organizations that invest in ongoing training and development for their future leaders reap the rewards in the long-term. Organizations with a strong culture of investing in their people have higher rates of employee engagement and retention, with increased productivity and profitability. For engineering firms, identifying future leaders and then devoting the necessary time and energy to developing their leadership talent is one of the best ways to retain talent and build an effective succession plan. We have worked with a number of engineers and organizations with large engineering workforces, and have seen first-hand the positive impact such training and education has at an organization-wide level. If you have management or leadership aspirations, do not neglect your ongoing learning and development. The sooner you make a commitment to undertaking high quality, and well recognized professional and executive education, the sooner you will start to see your career take flight. CEPE offers custom programs and open enrollment courses, all designed to give participants the knowledge, skills and selfassurance to foster new ways of thinking, better ways of doing business and opportunities to secure the success of their organizations for years to come. CEPE has special expertise in the engineering sector, drawing on the knowledge and experience of faculty in the university’s College of Engineering. To find out more about CEPE, and the programs it offers for engineering professionals and organizations employing engineers, visit www.aus.edu/CEPE.
HVACR Leaders • June 2018
13
How Engineers Can Get More Done Without Extending Work Hours
Don’t want to work overtime? Do these instead. As an engineer, we all know how busy we can get. There’s just so many that needs to be done in so little time. Sure, we’re used to it ever since the first year of engineering school, but working in the engineering industry is a different world. In these moments, it’s tempting to work overtime. We know it isn’t good for our mental and physical health, but what can we do? Well, a lot, actually. Most of the time, the reason why we can’t get things done on time is are simple mistakes we’ve been doing all our lives. Well then, what are these mistakes, and how do we fix them? Well, here are 8 ways to make sure you can get more things done on time:
14
HVACR Leaders • June 2018
#1 Organize and plan everything Make sure every project, every venture, and every task is well thought out and planned for ahead of time. This’ll keep the flow of the task going whilst making sure you don’t run into problems that’ll slow you down. #2 Work with what you’re good at. Ask help for things you aren’t Working with things you’re good at is no problem at all. With the things you aren’t good at, however, you don’t have to struggle through it by yourself. Know what you can or cannot do, and ask for help from an expert at the task and learn how they do it.
What are your top priorities in this job? Which tasks are the ones you love to do? What do you want to contribute to the company? Make the tasks that answer these questions the top of your priority list, then it won’t even seem like you’re working at all.
lures us in by telling us “we can save that job for later” and provide us the temporary relief of not having to deal with it. That is, until it’s almost the deadline and we have to rush it in a day. There are several ways to combat procrastination, with one of the most effective being the 5-minute rule. You can easily find these methods by googling them.
#4 Build networks with people
#7 Turn technology from an enemy to a friend
If you want to be able to get help when you need it, you’d need a network of people you know. So build healthy business relationships with everyone. You never know when they could lend you a hand.
Sure, technology can be a major distraction, but it can also be the most helpful thing you could ever have. Use technology to automate things that take a lot of time. Use t to remind you of the tasks you need to do and their deadlines. Use it as a mode of communication with your boss or coworkers. Technology is supposed to make our lives easier, after all.
#3 Do what you love and love what you do
#5 Stop getting distracted This is easier said than done, but it’s one of the most vital parts of getting things done. If you keep on getting distracted by social media, coworkers chatting, or even other tasks you’d want to do at the same time as your current task, you’re never going to get it finished on time. So try to find a way to keep yourself focused on the single task at hand. #6 Don’t procrastinate Procrastination is the productivity killer. It
#8 Set your priorities This is not just about listing in which order to do the tasks at, but also about time management. De-prioritize everything that isn’t urgent, even if others insist it is. Make sure each task can be done in the amount of time you set it to be, otherwise leave it for another day and do another task that takes less time. This things are the main key to getting tasks done on time.
HVACR Leaders • June 2018
15
How Engineers Can Gain Credibility With Little to No Experience It’s been the dilemma of fresh engineering graduates or newly licensed engineers to get work but having no work experience at all. Here is what you can do. We are pretty sure you have come across an internet meme about a young man in a job interview which essentially tells that the company is looking for someone aged 21 to 25 with 30 years of experience. A funny one, but this reflects a reality that graduates experience today. It’s been the dilemma of fresh engineering graduates or newly licensed engineers to get work but having no work experience at all. Lucky for some they had good internships, which could be their edge in landing jobs later. But how about those who have zero experience to put in their resumes? Of course engineering companies want to hire those with an employment background. It’s a risk for them to take in engineers who have 16
HVACR Leaders • June 2018
not proven themselves yet or whose potentials have not been tapped. If you are one of those engineers who have just been in the field and looking for experience, note that you only need to have the credibility for at least one company to be interested about you. Want to get that opportunity? Show to them that you are worthy of their trust as an employee. So now the questions begs: how could you gain that credibility? According to an initiative at Brandeis University’s Perlmutter Institute for Global Business Leadership, there are five activities that you can do as a young professional to overcome that experience deficit:
Leverage your research skills
Communicate proactively
Know which specific knowledge and skills are now required in the fields and build your area of expertise around it. Having a grasp of engineering trends and industry technology will give you an advantage that you could put in your resume or mention during the job interview.
During the job interview, your job is to convince that you are the right engineer for the vacant job. One of the most important skills that you need in this regard is your communication skills. You have to sell yourself and prove to the hiring manager that there is no other better engineer than you for the job.
Identify and embrace your specific Build a network of close contribution relationships What are your strengths as an engineer anyway? Which areas are you good at? Work on that and seek for resources that might help in you that aspect. This will be your starting point as you find work.
Volunteer willingly Because you do not have work experience just yet, you should be willing to volunteer. And that could mean that you will not be paid. But do it anyway for it shows your power of grit and determination.
You should have done this way before – even as an engineering student – so that you could ask those very important people in your field if they could be placed as character references in your resume. Hiring managers contact them and ask about you. If you have a close and good working relationship with them, you should be able to get the job because that is how to cement your credibility.
HVACR Leaders • June 2018
17
How Engineers Can Do More In Less Time
Get things done in the least amount of time possible
Studies show that most people are unproductive at work. And when you’re an engineer trying to get to the top, that can be a very dangerous trap to fall in. But if there’s just so much to do in so little time, how do you handle it without the burnout? Well luckily, Science has given us a few ways to help: Some people are more energized in the morning, some in the afternoon, and some at night. Try to find out where you stand in the spectrum. If you tend to wake up early and do fine with the standard work hour, you’re likely to be a morning person. If you’re tired during the first half and get into full work mode on the second half, you’re an afternoon person. If you’re eternally exhausted throughout the workday but tend to stay up at night, you’re most likely a night owl. Find out when you’re at your peak and try to adjust your work schedule to it.
Get enough sleep
Research has shown that sleep allows the body to rest and repair itself for the grind the following day. So despite our culture’s tendency to pull all-nighters, just sleep in and set that work aside for tomorrow. Your body will thank you for it.
Take a break
Our bodies aren’t exactly designed to keep working and working for 8 hours straight. We get tired for a reason. Remember, Productivity is about excelling at the tasks that generate the highest value, not doing the most number of tasks. Our body can only focus for 90-120 minutes at a time. To help you through this, you need to take the “basic rest-activity cycle”, where after every 1-2 hours you take a 15-20 minute break throughout the day. It gives you enough time to rest and refocus and still get stuff done.
Get an office plant
Yes, I know, this is a bit odd. But science says it helps. Apparently, houseplants in the office helps workers become 15% more productive. Maybe it’s the fresh air and reconnection to nature where we belong.
24 Million Engagement Advertise Now E: Ems@gineersnow.com M: +971 50 4289684
World’s ďŹ rst viral engineering magazine www.GineersNow.com
CIBSE: To Improve Is To Change
by Stephen Lisk, CIBSE President 2018 - 2019 My name is Stephen Lisk. I am the new president of the Chartered Institution of Building Services Engineers (CIBSE). I’m new to this role, in fact, I’ve been in the 20
HVACR Leaders • June 2018
post for less than a month, so I’m glad of this opportunity to tell you about what I think makes CIBSE such an important institution in the global construction sector. I’ll also outline my ambitions for CIBSE in my presidential year (2018 -2019)..
It is important to say at the outset that I’m a ‘lighter’. This makes me very unusual as a CIBSE president, since most of my predecessors have come from a mainly engineering background. My appointment is a reflection of the way that CIBSE is evolving as an organization to focus on collaboration. It requires the combined expertise of many specialists to design the
high quality buildings that we aspire to live and work in, and I think it is a huge strength of the organization that we include so many specialist groups within our membership. Lighting has been a discipline at the heart of CIBSE since the beginning. The organization has its UK origins over a century ago, when technical solutions to building comfort were beginning to emerge. HVACR Leaders • June 2018
21
The era saw the formation of the Institution of Heating and Ventilating Engineers in 1897 and the Illuminating Engineering Society in 1909. These two institutions were amalgamated in 1976 to form the Chartered Institution of Building Services, and in 1985, “Engineers” was added to the name. What this potted history illustrates is that lighting and occupant comfort have been integral to the Institution from the outset. Today approximately 15% of CIBSE’s membership is made up of members of the Society of Light and Lighting (SLL). Alongside lighting, other sectors of the building services industry represented within the organisation include the Society of Public Health Engineers (SoPHE), the Society of Digital Engineers (SDE), the Society of Façade Engineering and the Institute of Local Exhaust Ventilation Engineers. It is a huge strength of CIBSE as an institution that these specialists can come together in a single organisation to talk and exchange ideas without the commercial pressures they
would be under in their day jobs. Pan-industry collaboration ensures that buildings meet the needs of the people who live and work in them, wherever they are in the world. CIBSE’s region in the UAE launched in 2016 and is led by a group of leading Building Services Engineers based in Dubai and Abu Dhabi. More information about CIBSE activities and events in UAE at cibse.org/UAE. While CIBSE has its origins in the UK, it is now a truly global organisation with members in 100 countries. These members are represented by regional groups in the United Arab Emirates, Qatar, Hong Kong, the Republic of Ireland and Australia and New Zealand, in addition to the UK. In fact, the man I succeeded as President of CIBSE Peter Y Wong was chair of the Hong Kong branch. In his term as president, Peter believed sharing information and knowledge is crucial for the future of the building services industry. In a fast-changing world where everyone seems to be trying to achieve more in less time, it is
essential for CIBSE to evolve fast. In response to this challenge CIBSE is developing new ways of engaging with its membership. Our online presence has developed fast and I am particularly proud of CIBSE’s Knowledge Portal. We were one of the first industry bodies to publish all of our guidance documents online, making the wealth of knowledge and expertise represented by our publications easily accessible to our members across the world. Producing the technical documents that serve as guidance to a global industry is a triumph of 24
HVACR Leaders • June 2018
collaboration achieved through the willingness for our expert members to get together to discuss, debate and argue in order to reach a consensus. It is in this interaction that the meaning of our institution emerges. One of the highlights from the last year for us was CIBSE’s first Build2Perform Live. This was a genuinely revolutionary approach to the traditional conference format. Instead of a handful of lecturers presenting to a passive audience we had 1,400 hundred people led in debate and discussion by 170 speakers. It was a vibrant, lively two days filled with people
maximizing the opportunity to exchange ideas and debate concepts that will no doubt impact on their thinking in the years to come.
lighting transport hubs and revised the CIBSE Lighting Commissioning Code L to reflect latest developments in LED technology.
Of the publications produced last year, perhaps the most significant were the two groundbreaking documents focused on residential buildings: TM60 on Housing Design and TM59 on designing to avoid overheating in homes.
For more about CIBSE publications cibse.org/ knowledge
Both of these highlighted the wealth of expertise within CIBSE that can and should be used to inform the design of high quality housing. We also published a new guide to
With a strong commitment to encouraging the next generation of professionals, CIBSE focuses on developing its Young Engineers Network and supporting its annual Young Engineers Awards. This latter programme recognizes and rewards exceptional student and newly qualified engineers, while also HVACR Leaders • June 2018
25
rewarding employers who support new entrants to the industry. In the middle of these endeavors stands the Building Performance Awards. At its heart, CIBSE is about creating the best built environments so it is no surprise that the annual Awards, framed to reward the very best examples of high quality buildings are a highlight of the CIBSE year. Last year’s event saw more entries than ever before, with a particularly pleasing number participating in our category for International projects. What is particularly important is that much of CIBSE’s activity has the objective of helping to share specialist knowledge across all specialisations that contribute to creating high performance buildings. CIBSE has 26
HVACR Leaders • June 2018
13,000 people in its special interest groups, of which half are not members of the Institution. Publication of documents on a wide range of subjects is essential to underpin CIBSE’s stated mission which is “to support the Science, Art and Practice of building services engineering, by providing our members and the public with first class information and education services and promoting the spirit of fellowship which guides our work” Change and the need to be able to adapt to change, is one of the themes I’ll be building on in my role as President because I believe that in this fast-changing world CIBSE needs to be agile and responsive to changing circumstances if it is to best serve the needs of its members.
It is an important mission because every one of our members has the power to change people’s lives and make the built environment better; whether that is through the projects they design, the products they make, the buildings they manage, operate, maintain and refurbish, the codes and guidance they write or the standards and regulations they contribute to help to improve.
About CIBSE CIBSE publishes Guidance and Codes which provide best practice advice and are internationally recognised as authoritative design guidance for building services. The CIBSE Knowledge Portal, which makes our Guidance available online to all CIBSE members, is the leading systematic engineering resource for the building services sector. For more information about CIBSE, go to www.CIBSE.org
HVACR Leaders • June 2018
27
Enough about CIBSE, what about me? I have been in the lighting industry for over 30 years and I’m as passionate now about good lighting as I was when I first started. I’m originally from New Zealand, which was where I studied illumination engineering and first became aware of the impact good lighting can have on people. I believe that light is a basic and determining factor in the configuration of architectural space. The right use of light can create more comfortable, more genuine, more human, more sustainable and more beautiful places to enjoy life. Light that is not just functional, but light that invigorates, lifts the spirit, and touches peoples’ lives every day. I emigrated to the UK in 1999, which is where my company One Eighty Light is based. It is an architectural lighting company so we get involved in both indoor and outdoor lighting for commercial projects such as offices and hotels, high end residential schemes and even expensive yachts - we design and supply to offer a full service to customers. I’m a fellow of the Society of Light and Lighting. It is a great organisation to be a part of for anyone with an interest in lighting. Its aims are: • • • • • • •
To promote the benefits of good lighting, especially in the built environment. To be at the forefront of developing lighting as an integral part of a low-energy and sustainable future. To provide professional recognition to those in light and lighting. To establish and promote good practice in lighting design and engineering in all their facets. To provide a forum where people interested in all aspects of light and lighting can come together. To set and maintain standards in education for light and lighting. To advise government and other authoritative bodies on the best use and application of light and lighting.
As a lighting engineer why be a member of CIBSE? For me it’s about being in a community of people who are like minded in their motivation to improve the built environment. Institutions and societies are about the members – that’s where the magic originates. Getting people together in a room to review an update to a technical guidance or piece of advice ensures debate around the concepts. This coming together is what it’s all about - enhancing the debate to ensure the most effective outcome. My journey at CIBSE started with volunteering for the SLL by joining the communications and marketing committee. It was an important step in enabling me to participate in events, meet new people and to play my part in a diverse, global organisation with an aim of ensuring that the buildings we design today meet the needs of the people who live and work in them. I’m looking forward to continuing my CIBSE journey in my year as President.
More information on SLL and CIBSE other Societies cibse.org/ networks/Societies or to find out more about membership 020 8772 3650 or membership@cibse.org HVACR Leaders • June 2018
29
From left to right: Ashley Bateson MSc, CEng, CEnv, FCIBSE, MEI - Vice President Lynne Jack CEng FCIBSE FSOPHE - President Elect Peter Y Wong BSc, LLB, LLM, FCIBSE, FHKIE, FIET, Chartered Engineer, R.P.E (Ell, Bss) - Immediate Past President Stephen Lisk FCIBSE FSLL – President Kevin Kelly CEng FlEl FCIBSE FSLL - Vice President Stuart MacPherson CEng FCIBSE - Vice President
Advanced HVAC Solutions Put Users First Intuitive Interfaces Combine with Powerful Components to Increase Comfort and Convenience for Building Occupants Upholding the phrase “The customer is always right” has long been a priority for business owners. This phrase is now truer than ever as the digital age has empowered every consumer to review their experience at every shop, café and restaurant. If these positive or negative reviews go viral, they have the ability to make or break a business. The increased power of consumers to shape their own destiny raises standards for business owners as they compete to increase satisfaction and performance. Now this culture of improved customer service is spreading to other industries including with landlords and building managers. It should come as little surprise that climate control is one of the key factors determining tenant satisfaction. There is a feeling of relief that comes with escaping inclement weather that anyone who has stepped into a warm room on a chilly day can instantly relate to. The same can be said for cooling off in the middle of the summer, a feeling that is difficult to describe but easy to understand. Most of us are lucky enough to live and work in climate controlled environments, but a quick reflection on the importance of these systems serves to remind us all how much we rely on climate control solutions in our everyday lives. 32
HVACR Leaders • June 2018
To most users, the ideal climate control system offers comfort, reliability and intuitive control at the same time. While the performance of LG’s inverter-powered HVAC solutions is well known, many are unaware that the entire system was designed from the ground up to prioritize end users. This puts the full potential of the MULTI V 5 fully in the user’s control, allowing them to modify any environment for maximum comfort quickly and easily. This is possible in part due to the innovative Dual Sensing Control which allows LG’s advanced Ultimate Inverter Compressor to operate as efficiently and effectively as possible. Harnessing the full potential of this advanced hardware results in stable temperature control that can be rapidly fine-tuned to meet the exact specifications of each individual user. At the same time, Dual Sensing Control manages and maintains to offer optimal user comfort based on both temperature and humidity. The full impact of Dual Sensing Control is enhanced through a range of other advanced features designed to offer benefits such as auto dust removal, delayed defrost, partial defrost and smart oil management. These all work in tandem
temperature within a set range. This precise control can be further extended to expand the temperature range whenever the room is unoccupied. Instead of turning the system completely off, this refined control prevents room temperature from becoming too high or too low, guaranteeing a comfortable indoor environment the moment the room is reoccupied.
with other advanced components to boost performance. The MULTI V 5 stands alone in its ability to provide continuous heating operation that creates a comfortable, stable indoor environment. Consumers worldwide have repeatedly indicated their preference for solutions that offer consistent climate control without interruption, leading to increased interest in the LG MULTI V 5. However, all of this performance means very little without the proper control interface. Many advanced solutions are unable to reconcile the complexity of their systems with the straightforward and intuitive control schemes that allow users to experience their full range of benefits. In contrast, the MULTI V 5 boasts a new standard individual control interface that offers simplified control inputs through a large 4.3-inch full color LCD screen. This control also features a seamless touch button and a simplified user-friendly interface which provides up to the minute climate and air quality updates. Using the latest in ergonomic design principles, both the control panel and its operational interface make operating the advanced HVAC system easier than ever before. The advanced Auto Changeover feature can be used to manage room temperature by automatically alternating between heating and cooling modes to keep room
This same control also provides easy access to relevant indoor data and also allowing users to check system cleanliness as well as monitor energy consumption in real time. This vastly improves energy management, with the accumulated running time report helping users evaluate operational patterns and discover the factors behind energy waste. This is just one more example of how the MULTI V 5 prioritizes the user experience. When not in use, the screen can be used to display the latest operational figures, ensuring that users are always up to date on the finer working of their climate control solutions. The improved consumer power of recent years can be traced to both increased connectivity and easier access to information. The MULTI V 5’s control panel places both of these at the user’s fingertips, ushering in a new era in usercentric solutions. With restaurants and retailers catering to them, consumers have never been better cared for than they are today. While many keep note of lackluster service, they know that it is equally important to reward the firms and individuals that go above and beyond to put customers first. Treating the customer with respect takes a massive commitment, down to even the smallest details like climate management. LG has always been dedicated to customer service, and the MULTI V 5 is a testament to its technical leadership. Its impressive combination of cutting-edge technology and intuitive controls allows the MULTI V 5 to deliver the climate control that today’s user’s demand. By prioritizing end users and placing an emphasis on accessible performance, LG is redefining customer service in an industry that typically deals in B2B transactions. Read more at: https://gineersnow.com/ industries/hvac-r/dvanced-hvac-solutions-putusers-first-lg HVACR Leaders • June 2018
33
New Frontiers: Safe Berthing with Rubtech and its Marine Rubber Fenders Today, Hira Rubtech marine fenders have evolved to a fifth generation thanks to improved design, engineering expertise and advanced manufacturing capability.
As vessels have grown larger and more diverse, so have the demands on fenders. A century ago, timber (first generation) was cheap and worked adequately for the small vessels of the day. Old tires (second generation) were abundant and softer but required expensive maintenance and absorbed little energy. Cylindrical (third generation) were the first purpose designed fenders, gaining popularity over 50 years ago, but inefficient use of rubber and low performance by today’s standards makes them costly. Arch and simple buckling fenders (fourth generation) had better performance and integrated the rubber with steel fixing plates. Today, Hira Rubtech marine fenders have evolved to a fifth generation thanks to improved design, engineering expertise and advanced manufacturing capability. Marine facilities 34
HVACR Leaders • June 2018
no longer need to ‘make do’ as the development of highly sophisticated computer designed fenders is helping ports to make certain that both safety and efficiency are maximized. Bringing a vessel into berth requires the vessel’s kinetic energy to be absorbed or dissipated in order to prevent structural or vessel damage. protecting modern ports and terminals, diverse vessels and high value cargo require a great deal of expertise and our design engineering in order to optimize significant investment made, reduce downtime and maintenance needs as well as maximizing the fender’s lifecycle, Hira Rubtech design and manufacturing Capabilities of fenders provided very suitable and efficient solutions for safe berthing of vessels. Fender systems are mission critical equipment and should
be designed and engineered according to the functional and operational requirements of the specific project, as well as site conditions, environment and other design criteria such as local standards, desired service life, maintenance cost and frequency. Hira Rubtech is fully engaged, not only in specification and design, but long after this stage, into the development of maintenance plans and audits for the equipment provided. Indeed, with a growing demand for offshore developments, as well as increasingly complex demands on onshore ports and terminals, it’s becoming increasingly important that developments are considered holistically from the conceptual engineering stage. Every business are like sea voyages that need careful preparation and calculated risk assumptions. But no journey can be succeeded all alone, shifting to a trusted company that can grant you ensured reliable protection through its renowned quality and standards can make the entire cruise worth it all. And while progress remains the leading vision of the marine industry, Rubtech will continuously strive to deliver the best products and services it so deserves. Insulating, safeguarding, and protecting with confidence.
700,000+ Followers and growing Advertise Now E: Ems@gineersnow.com M: +971 50 4289684
World’s ďŹ rst viral engineering magazine www.GineersNow.com
Al Salem Johnson Controls (YORK) Highlights Latest HVAC Technologies
In a step to shed the light on the importance of reliability and maintenance in the HVAC industry, “Eurasiayan”, specialized in structuring events and meetings, organized the 13th Annual Corporate Maintenance Forum, the Reliability & Maintenance Conference and Exhibition that was planned for Saudi Aramco and its Joint Ventures. The event, sponsored by Yanbu Refinery Department, was jointly endorsed by the Maintenance Council of Saudi Aramco and Reliability Community of Practice (RCoP) and hosted up to 200 Reliability & Maintenance Professionals over 3 days in private, to discuss the challenges, explore the latest trends, offer 36
HVACR Leaders • June 2018
insights, solutions and practical examples through in-depth discussions to improve the ground zero realities. Al Salem Johnson Controls (YORK), a leading provider of HVAC, fire and security systems, building management systems, controls systems, and aftermarket services contributed as a workshop sponsor of the Reliability and Maintenance conference and exhibition. Commenting on the event, Abdulatif Alshami, Manager Yanbu Refinery Department, Saudi Aramco said: “This event brought the latest insights from various solution providers’ experts
value to clients in terms of economic outlay and efficient operation to HVAC systems. On another hand, we provide world-class technician training, periodic safety orientation and special job site-training programs that show our commitment to developing local talents. These programs also help prevent accidents as well as lost man hours and company revenue.” During the conference, Al Salem Johnson Controls (YORK) addressed reliability, at several levels and the most effective technologies: the (YMC2) Chiller; operating with magnetic bearings that offer superior reliability and performance. This chiller’s oilfree design helps reduce system maintenance requirements and costs, because its magnetic bearing technology eliminates oil, mechanical seals, wear surfaces and gears for longer machine life, contributing to increased component and system reliability. The company also shed the light on component design, equipment fabrication, strict quality control and rigorous testing, matching right equipment with the application, system engineering and commissioning.
within our company, JVs and international experts too, on how they define reliability and successfully face it and develop the best technologies in today’s environment to achieve and sustain safe, reliable and efficient operations and maintenance.” Dr. Mohanad Al Shaikh, CEO of Al Salem Johnson Controls (YORK) said: “We are pleased to highlight latest technologies during this professional conference. Our team of qualified engineers highlighted the work with process proponents & consulting engineers offering Innovative approach with high added
A group of experienced engineers from Al Salem Johnson Controls (YORK), in their workshop presentation, highlighted Chiller solutions: a reliable component, equipment and systems, in addition to Air Cooled Screw Chiller: building reliability in chillers, the reliability of Variable Speed Air Cooled Screw Chiller, Semi-Industrial grade Screw compressors, the VSD Chiller: a technology leadership, as well as the Microchannel Condenser. Furthermore, the engineers discussed the importance of the Water Cooled Centrifugal Chillers, Custom Tailored Machines and other successful case studies that the company previously recorded. “We, as a key player in the HVAC industry are keen to develop technologies that best serve mega-companies as Saudi Aramco as well as other companies requiring our services in a step to contribute to the Saudi Vision 2030 in terms of reliability and energy efficiency. We are proud to have contributed to Saudi Aramco’s event: The Reliability and Maintenance conference and exhibition, and look forward to fruitful results”, concluded Dr. Al Shaikh.
HVACR Leaders • June 2018
37
Titus&Wayne Launched Luft Qi Filter-Free Air Purifier on Indiegogo Titus&Wayne, a Taiwanese startup founded in October 2016 and based on material science and chemical engineering as well as with the support from TYCommander Startup Hub developing new and innovative products for the future, excitedly announced their first product, the Luft Qi filter-free air purifier, officially launches a crowdfunding campaign on Indiegogo which started on April 24th. Pairing the engineering and development backgrounds between Titus Chang and Wayne Chein for a fully integrated LED experience using nano-photocatalysis technology, with Luft Qi, the two have created a totally new kind of air purifying experience. Luft means “Air” in German and used to describe space or breath. Qi (pronounced “chee”) - literally means “air, breath” in Mandarin Chinese. In traditional Chinese culture, “Qi” is described as “vital life force.” By balancing the flow of Qi, all the discomforts will be eliminated. Luft Qi is 38
HVACR Leaders • June 2018
designed in the spirit of Qi, offering fresh, clean air by eliminating airborne pollutants. “As our first innovative product, we are launching the release in accordance with a crowdfunding campaign to help spread the word,” said Chang, CoFounder of Titus&Wayne. “Luft Qi is a filter-free air purifier that utilizes the latest UV LED technology together with nanophotocatalyst through an IP protected reaction chamber. It’s never been done before. Simply plug the Luft Qi air purifier into a USB charger power port, and you’re all set.” Luft Qi has a 360-degree air intake, a patented nano-reactor, and comprehensive air cleaning at all times. It takes in the surrounding air and pollutants from every angle. A chemical reaction is created when the patented nano-reactor is activated by UV LED light. Pollutants are broken down into harmless molecules. Clean air is dispersed with only harmless molecules such
as water. It is the first compact air purifier of its kind using nanotechnology that destroys mold, airborne bacteria, formaldehyde, viruses, and toxic chemicals, using absolutely no filters. “Although traditional HEPA filters can trap bacteria and mold, they are also perfect places for these microorganisms to grow,” said Chein, CoFounder of Titus&Wayne. “No larger than a beverage can, this new air purifying concept will go unnoticed in any home or location.” “This air purifier is designed for anyone who suffers from allergies, fatigue, or dizziness, as well as those living in old homes, or homes with unwanted smells,” said Chang. “It’s an effective agent when battling the airborne illnesses that can cause significant harm to our loved ones today. Spread the word on the
official launch of our forthcoming campaign and consider investing in quality air.” The Indiegogo campaign officially launches at 8AM EST on April 24th with an MSRP at $169 and super early bird tickets at $79. $25,000 funding goal. Total 6 color variations available, Bright White + Silver Ring, Bright White + Maroon Ring, Bright White + Iron Black, Pink, Aqua, and Wood. Watch the video and learn how Luft Qi works: https://youtu.be/fN6T1E7ctU4 For more information about the crowdfunding campaign, visit: https://www.indiegogo.com/ projects/luft-qi-the-smallest-filterless-airpurifier/x
HVACR Leaders • June 2018
39
Finding the Right Fit: Flexible Duct Connectors that Will Suit Your Needs Composed of professionals with more than three decades of experience in HVAC, Hira Industries unceasingly proves to share a common vision with its customers by understanding their burdens and providing the right formulation that benefit their best interests. 40
HVACR Leaders • June 2018
Everyday, people all around the world share several universal experiences, and the most common one of them is making choices. And in particular fields like the HVAC Industry, finding the perfect fit means choosing the right partner that could provide the most suitable and desirable solutions designed to your needs. Composed of professionals with more than three decades of experience in HVAC, Hira Industries unceasingly proves to share a common vision with its customers by understanding their burdens and providing the right formulation that benefit their best interests. Knowing that all mechanical equipment like air handling units, ventilation fans and fan coil units generate noise and vibrations when used, they formed the Aeroduct Ducting Accessories Division targeted to manufacture specialized accessories like flexible duct connectors in order to reduce HVAC system noise without sacrificing energy efficiency.
Comprehensive Selection and Their Functions Eliminating noise and vibration from transmitting to the airducts requires the installation of an airtight flexible joint between the outlet of the equipment, and the inlet of the ducts. The said joint formed by attaching a layer of fabric to two strips of metal on either side is called a flexible duct connector. But the most critical part of the process is choosing the fabric which has to suit the typical requirements of each installation. Determining factors in the selection include application; whether it will be used indoors or outdoor, operating temperature, and chemical resistance. Fortunately, Aeroduct offers a variety of fabrics applicable to even the most intricate conditions. Vinyl is used on HVAC applications where an economical flexible connection is required. It is the most commonly used fabric for all duct installations especially for residential use due to its high tear strength, and its high abrasion resistance. Such is recommended for low to
medium pressure duct work system, airtight and waterproof construction. Neoprene, on the other hand, is the choice of most engineers. It is the industry standard, retaining its flexibility and aging characteristics over a long period of time. It is recommended for use in application where heavy mechanical strength is required. It also offers high resistance to a broad range of acids, alkalies, gasoline and toxic fumes. Meanwhile, Hypalon is the preferred material for outdoor applications such as connections to roof units where they may be exposed to direct strong sunlight. It boasts maximum resistance to ozone and can be used near electrostatic and UV air cleaners with complete confidence. Silicon, however, possesses a special silicon rubber coating which has excellent resistance to high and low temperatures. This material will not burn and emits minimal fumes when exposed to open flame. It is the product choice for high temperature applications in both indoor and outdoor installations. In addition to the list are Polyurathane Coated Fabrics and Canvas. The latter is the traditional choice used for general air conditioning and ventilating applications in airtight and waterproof constructions, while the former maybe fragile in construction but has a longer resistance period to high temperatures.
The Choice is Made We’re all confronted by countless choices each day. Some have minimal consequences, while other decisions can be life changing. But for construction companies, there is only one option to take—that is to pick the best there is. And picking Hira Industries wouldn’t be the decision to regret. Their Aeroduct products are all made in Dubai – United Arab Emirates, meeting all applicable international testing standards and are accepted all over the Middle East region, Africa, Russia and USA to ensure a lasting relationship where trust is built.
HVACR Leaders • June 2018
41
Should Engineers Adapt the 3-Hour Work Day? There’s a convincing case that this might just work. In 2016, a survey was conducted among 1,989 UK office workers and found that the average employee works for about 3 hours – or 2 hours and 53 minutes, to be more precise. And the rest of the time, as discovered, the workers just read the news, browse social media, eat food, socialize about non-work topics, take smoke breaks, and even search for new jobs. This study is supported by many others – one research concluded that people can only concentrate for about 20 minutes at a time, another said that people struggled to stay on task for more than 10 seconds – to say that an eight-hour workday may be five hours too long. Anders Ericsson, an expert on the psychology of work, believes so. “If you’re pushing people well beyond that time they can really concentrate maximally, you’re very likely to get them to acquire some bad habits,” he told Business Insider in 2016. In his career, Ericsson discovered that “practice makes perfect” indeed works, but if people engage in a certain kind of practice known as “deliberate practice.” This means that people do not need so many hours to focus on their craft, and even experts only 42
HVACR Leaders • June 2018
spend a few hours to improve their skills, and then they stop. While a three-hour work day makes this convincing case, another alternative, which is also shorter in terms of workweek, is already being explored by companies. From 40 work hours in a week, technology education company Treehouse has made it to 32. That’s broken down into four eight-hour days instead of the usual five. Ryan Carson, the CEO of the company, revealed that he saw his employees become happier and more productive after he implemented the 32-hour work week way back in 2006. He believes that forcing people to work 40 hours per week is “nearly inhumane,” as mentioned in his interview with the Atlantic in 2015. “It’s not about more family time, or more play time, or less work time — it’s about living a more balanced total life,” he said. “We basically take ridiculously good care of people because we think it’s the right thing to do.” Will this shortened work hours be in favor for engineers given the nature of the job and the demand to deliver? What do you think?
220,000 Subscribers Advertise Now E: Ems@gineersnow.com M: +971 50 4289684
World’s first viral engineering magazine www.GineersNow.com
Schneider Electric, Danfoss and Somfy Join Forces to Create a Connectivity Ecosystem Schneider Electric, Danfoss and Somfy have announced that they are partnering to create a Connectivity Ecosystem that aims to accelerate the adoption of connectivity in residential, midsize building and hotel markets. Committed to openness and interoperability, the three 44
HVACR Leaders • June 2018
companies combine 300 years of innovation and expertise with the largest global network of trusted installers in the industry. The partnership brings connectivity for smart homes and smart buildings to maturity by
The challenge is that connectivity is still widely perceived as lacking in simplicity, reliability, interoperability and after-sales support. Installation quality is also an issue, particularly when the installation process is left in the hands of the end users or unqualified installers. Schneider Electric, Danfoss, and Somfy believe it is time for major industrial players to come together to accelerate on connectivity and deliver efficient solutions that work simply together. Through the partnership, the three global leaders bring their own field of expertise in lighting, heating and shutter control that are supported by the expertise and proximity of professional network of installers.
Bringing together the best application expertise “Controlling lighting, heating and shutters together in one system is a real expertise that we can now jointly offer by combining more than 300 years of industry leadership - all backed by our extensive professional installer networks. In recent decades, we have also developed a high level of compatibility with other application leaders within HVAC equipment, access control, door entry systems and audio-video. We believe the time has come to further consolidate interaction among other players and to build seamless and simple integration of our applications,” said Lars Tveen, President Danfoss Heating Segment.
A large network of trained professional installers
delivering efficient solutions that are easy to integrate and that work simply together. The connectivity solutions are supported by qualified installers, making them simple and easy for customers to deploy. The global market for connectivity is growing fast, with an estimated 8.4 Billion* connected devices in 2020. In 2016, fewer than 17% of US homes had any kind of smart home system, and less than 4% in Europe**. Most of these are single-application devices.
“Over many years we have developed a massive network of over 300,000 installers from around the globe. Thanks to close, daily interaction, we have built up mutual trust and understanding with our installers. For them, our brands signify reliability, ease-of-use and effective technical support. In addition, our channel partner programs – Schneider Electric EcoXperts, Somfy Experts and Danfoss installers – are the perfect platforms for us to continue to build and develop connectivity expertise within our channels,” said Somfy CEO Jean-Guillaume Despature.
HVACR Leaders • June 2018
45
Commitment to openness and interoperability “We have already built established connectivity platforms based on our core applications and have experienced significant success with Schneider Electric’s Wiser, KNX, C-Bus, Danfoss’ Link™ and Somfy’s TaHoma. We believe in openness and interoperability. Connectivity protocols and platforms are still very diverse. We have built the technology know-how that incorporates all the major communication protocols and is compatible with all emerging user interfaces and voice controllers. And we are fully committed to long-term compatibility with our legacy platforms,” said Philippe Delorme, Schneider Electric Executive Vice President for Buildings & IT Business. Under the partnership, Schneider Electric, Danfoss, and Somfy will align their connectivity and technology strategies to develop an open ecosystem, making their products seamlessly interoperable at controller level, or at cloud level through APIs (Application Programming Interface).
Meeting customer expectations with real use cases delivering 46
HVACR Leaders • June 2018
tangible benefits Connectivity only makes sense if it meets targeted customer expectations within specific sectors of the market. To this end, the three companies have engaged with customers and partners across multiple markets, to review and create customized solutions aimed at developing use cases with simple and seamless integration of their different applications. These use cases bring real added value for installers and system integrators, as well as key benefits to end users including energy-efficiency, comfort and health, security and user-friendliness. The three companies are committed to train their installer network to ‘champion’ connectivity in their daily activities, helping customers and end-users to deploy solutions that meet their needs and requirements. The ecosystem’s first three use cases demonstrated at Light+Building 2018 trade fair in Germany are targeting: - Hotel with fully integrated guest room management - High-end residential segment with bestin-breed controls, combined in a seamless integrated system
- New housing, or comprehensive home renovation or upgrade, using a new smarthome-ready electrical panel - Illustration: Hotels will fully integrated guests room management The benefits for hotel operations are seamless integration of systems, providing a consistent and excellent guest experience, while optimizing energy use without impacting customer comfort and health. The solution also allows hotel facility managers to control everything through a single integrated system. For systems integrators, commissioning the Schneider Electric guest room solution together with Somfy and Danfoss solutions is easy. They have full compatibility with “out of the box” solutions that are tested, validated and documented.
promote connectivity and to create value for our customers. Our ambition is to become a leading enabler of global connectivity creating value for our customers. This will require close collaboration with fellow application leaders to develop solutions that work seamlessly together. We aim to attract new partners to join us in the Connectivity Ecosystem who share our vision as to the future of connectivity and to build on the momentum we have already created. Through expert, hands-on support in the preand post-sales journey, we are committed to provide an unparalleled customer experience, while improving efficient solutions for specific vertical markets and geographies. In a nutshell, our solutions work simply together” said Philippe Delorme.
An unparalleled customer experience “We believe now is the time for us, as major industrial players, to partner together to accelerate on connectivity. Our goal is to HVACR Leaders • June 2018
47
Axiom Exergy Raises $7.6 Million for Thermal Energy Storage Technology Designed for Grocery Stores and Cold Storage Facilities 48
HVACR Leaders • June 2018
Continuing to bring flexible energy storage solutions to grocery stores and cold storage facilities, Axiom Exergy has raised $7.6 million in Series A funding, for a total of $12.5 million raised to date. The round was co-led by GXP Investments and Shell Ventures, and it also included WorldQuant Ventures, SV Tech Ventures and Meson Capital. Previous investors in Axiom Exergy include Tesla CTO JB Straubel, Larry Mohr, Seabed VC, and the Stanford-StartX Fund. “Energy storage is a critical technology that enables the ongoing deployment of renewables on the grid,” said Dennis Odell, Vice President at GXP Investments. “Axiom Exergy has developed a unique, intelligent solution that provides unparalleled distributed energy benefits to supermarkets and cold storage facilities and delivers immediate value to these underserved markets.” “Axiom’s Refrigeration Battery platform transforms large, inflexible refrigeration systems into intelligent, flexible, longduration batteries,” said Vikas Gupta, Venture Principal of Shell Ventures. “This could position Axiom as the energy industry’s gateway to the cold chain. We are excited to be supporting a unique power management platform designed for refrigerated facilities.” Axiom Exergy’s Refrigeration Battery can increase profit margins for supermarkets and cold storage facilities by reducing peak energy demand by up to 40 percent and shifting electricity consumption to offpeak hours when it is less expensive. By leveraging the store’s existing refrigeration system, the Refrigeration Battery ‘stores cooling’ at night by freezing tanks of salt water when electricity costs are low. Then, during the day when electricity prices are high, the Refrigeration Battery ‘discharges’ by providing uninterrupted cooling services to the facility rather than running the powerhungry central refrigeration systems. Axiom Exergy offers the Refrigeration Battery to its customers via its Savingsas-a-Service contract, requiring no upfront capital or out-of-pocket expenses for the life of the project. It provides valuable energy services that more than cover the
ongoing service fees, enabling supermarket owners to reserve precious capital for revenue-generating investments. The technology has an estimated lifespan of 30 years. “The Axiom Exergy team has combined its cost-effective thermal energy storage system with its advanced predictive data analytics engine to provide valuable energy flexibility to the cold chain,” said Mark Danchak, Managing Director of WorldQuant Ventures. “This is a market where lowering energy costs and reducing operational risk have big impacts on the bottom line.” The funding positions Axiom Exergy to scale their thermal energy storage solution in large, multi-site rollouts at grocery stores and cold storage facilities. Additionally, Axiom plans to begin rolling out additional features of the Refrigeration Battery platform (such as grid services) and addressing new segments of the world’s cooling markets. “Refrigeration systems, which account for more than nine percent of commercial energy consumption, must operate around the clock to keep the food cold. As electricity grids and prices become increasingly unstable, inflexible refrigerated facilities find themselves in a difficult position,” said Amrit Robbins, CEO and cofounder of Axiom Exergy. “Utilities manage intermittent renewable generation and spiky electric vehicle charging loads through price signals to customers, and grocery stores are currently unable to respond to these price signals in a meaningful way. The Refrigeration Battery is the ideal solution to enable energy flexibility for the cold chain and it simultaneously helps enable more renewables on the grid. We’re excited to find so many food retailers, investors, and electrical utilities that share our vision of transforming refrigeration systems into flexible, intelligent energy storage assets.” Axiom Exergy’s Refrigeration Battery is currently installed at both Walmart and Amazon (Whole Foods) stores. In 2017, Axiom Exergy founders Amrit Robbins and Anthony Diamond were named in the Forbes list of 30 Under 30 for Energy.
HVACR Leaders • June 2018
49
How Engineers Can Optimize Their Schedule For Maximum Productivity Here are some tips for improving your schedule and increase your productivity at work. More often than not, we engineers have a lot of tasks on our to do list every day and it can be overwhelming. In the process, many find it a struggle to finish their tasks, or sometimes have a hard time to just get them started. The best solution for this is to have an effective routine that allows you to get a lot more tasks done in less time. Here are some tips for improving your schedule and increase your productivity at work: Plan Your Day In Advance Before you start any of your tasks for the day, spare some time to write down your to-do list for the day and what you need to accomplish. Plan out your schedule with the most important tasks as priority. You could also write your list at the end of each day in advance for the next work day. This will allow you to have organized thoughts and will allow you to get more things done.
Focus on the Important Tasks Sometimes with so much urgent or emergency matters throughout the day, we tend to overlook the big tasks that we are supposed to finish. Urgent matters are inevitable, so try to make it a point to set a number of big tasks you have to finish everyday. Try focusing on getting three big tasks done everyday. Write these goals at the top of your list and schedule your day around them. When you are working on these big tasks, avoid distractions. Don’t let anyone interrupt you while you are working on the big 3. Do the task you hate the most first We all have tasks that we hate, and we would do anything we can to avoid it. Unfortunately, these tasks will come one way or the other, so when it does–do it first. Do the task you hate the most first so that the rest of your tasks will seem easier in comparison. You’ll be able to focus better on your other tasks because you won’t be thinking about that certain task that you hate. Take Breaks Working hard is good, but don’t let it get the best of you. No one is perfectly productive 24/7. Remind yourself that you are still human and need to take a break. Let your brain rest so that you can go back to your work refreshed and ready to get your tasks done
220 Million Reach 24 Million Engagement 700,000+ Followers 220,000+ Subscribers Advertise Now E: Ems@gineersnow.com M: +971 50 4289684
World’s first viral engineering magazine www.GineersNow.com