19 minute read
Vans & Racking
from July/August 2021
by PHAM News
Charge up for urban and rural driving
The Proace medium duty van from Toyota is now available as a battery electric version, with 50 and 5kWh lithium-ion battery options and a driving range of up to 205 miles. For users working in urban areas, the extent of the driving range means daily recharging may not be necessary, minimising their vehicle’s downtime.
Proace Electric has three driving modes: Eco, Normal and Power. Driving in Power mode means maximum power output from the battery and top speed is electronically limited to 80mph. A 0 62mph acceleration can be accomplished in 12.1 seconds with the 50kW battery, 13.3 seconds with the 5kW unit. In Eco mode output is reduced to 81bhp/60kW with 190Nm of torque
Key customer concerns have been addressed, including charging times (fast charging to 80% in less than one hour with a 100kW fast charger) and battery quality (8-year/100,000-mile battery warranty as standard). This, says Toyota, makes Proace Electric an option for customers who need to access low/zero emission zones, giving them the opportunity to develop cost e cient business models that deliver environmental performance while maintaining service levels. ◼ phamnews.co.uk/721/
Real time monitoring alerts drivers to vehicle breaches
Guard Mode is Ford’s connectedvehicle security system that monitors vans in real time via a smartphone. It notifies drivers of potential breaches in security through Ford’s app for commercial vehicle operators, FordPass Pro.
When activated, for example after business hours or at the weekend, Guard Mode employs sensors to detect when someone enters the vehicle, opens the bonnet or load compartment, or starts the engine. It then sends a notification to the owner s smartphone using the vehicle’s FordPass Connect modem.
An alert will also be triggered if a vehicle is unlocked or started using a key – an action that would not activate a conventional vehicle alarm and may be useful in the event of a key being stolen or cloned. This builds on existing alarm notifications in FordPass Pro, including Trailer Theft Alert, which sends an alert if it detects a trailer is being unhooked.
The Guard Mode screens in the FordPass Pro app highlight the times the vehicle was accessed, the reason for alarms, when trigger actions happened and the vehicle’s last known location. ◼ phamnews.co.uk/721/
All-in package with inclusive aftercare
Installers driving a Volkswagen van between three and six years old can benefit from an all-inclusive aftercare plan. The package, named ‘All-in from Volkswagen Commercial Vehicles’, gives owners two services, two years Roadside Assistance, two MOTs, and two years of warranty.
The programme combines a range of services, bundled into a single package, and paid for either by 24 monthly installments or as a one-off payment. It represents a complete care package that covers main future servicing and repair costs. Compared with pay-as-you-go pricing, All-in provides average savings of 1558 over two years, while also offering the option of booking services and MOTs for a single visit to minimise vehicle downtime.
All-in is priced at £34.9 per month over 24 months or a oneoff payment of 839.30. Vehicles aged between three to six years are eligible, meaning that the support could be effective until the van is eight years old. ◼ phamnews.co.uk/721/
Protect against galvanic reaction
The 3m PipeTube carrier from Rhino is now available with a full-length PV lining to the tube. This will help to stop the galvanic reaction that can otherwise take place, discolouring the pipes stored inside. The design includes an integral locking system and an added rubber seal to reduce water entering the tube. In addition, the stylish design of PipeTube Pro offers a generous carrying capacity, twin openings and full professional crash testing and safety accreditation. ◼ phamnews.co.uk/721/ 7
ri n dition de i ers t e m st-have extras
ffering high levels of standard specification and value, auxhall has introduced new Gri n Edition’ models across its light commercial vehicle line, including Combo, Vivaro and Movano models.
On the exterior, the Combo Gri n dition features 16-inch alloy wheels, metallic paint and rear parking sensors. Inside, owners get a multimedia system with an 8-inch touchscreen, cruise control, and FlexCargo, which allows drivers to load through the bulkhead, as well as fold the passenger and centre seat to improve load space.
The ivaro Gri n dition features rear parking sensors, 1 -inch alloy wheels, highbeam assist as well as automatic windscreen wipers and body coloured bumpers. Inside, the ivaro Gri n dition comes as standard with Vauxhall’s Multimedia system with a -inch touchscreen, cruise control, and FlexCargo.
The large ovano Gri n Edition comes standard with rear parking sensors, cruise control, automatic windscreen wipers and automatic headlights. Drivers also get a digital radio with Bluetooth and a USB connection, as well as comfort seats with lumbar support and armrest. ◼ phamnews.co.uk/721/ 6
Large load area supported by powerful battery
Relay, Citroën’s biggest van, is now available in the UK with a choice of two all-electric drivetrains. The ë-Relay is offered exclusively in the well-appointed ‘Enterprise’ trim, and the panel van versions are available in L2 (5413mm), L3 (5998mm) and L4 (6363mm) lengths.
Customers have a choice of two lithium-ion battery packs: a 3 kWh battery connected to a 120hp (90kW) electric motor available in the L2 Panel Van, or a 0kWh battery unit connected to the same 120hp (90kW) motor for all other body types.
The 3 kWh battery provides a WLTP certified range of up to 3 miles in the L2 Panel Van, while the 0kWh battery increases range up to 139 miles under WLTP testing for L3 and L4 variants.
All Citroën ë-Relay models include a Type 2 charging cable, supporting charging up to 22kW. A full charge from a kW wallbox unit will take 6 and 12 hours respectively for the 3 kWh and 0kWh versions. Both battery packs support up to 50kW rapid charging. ◼ phamnews.co.uk/721/ 8
It pays to invest in an upgrade
When considering a boiler replacement for a light heat exchanger, pump and controls. Paul Martin from ATAG Commercial explains more.
Non- domestic buildings in the UK account for % of our energy consumption and % of greenhouse gas emissions. While there is a lot of excitement in the industry about enhancing new buildings, what about existing commercial properties still reliant on antiquated, for heating and hot water?
Replacing dated, wasteful boilers condensing models is a great method savings, as well as a reduction in CO and NOx emissions. In recent years, manufacturers have made vast strides in the design and engineering of modern boilers, particularly the latest light commercial wall hung units. Advances in boiler technology have resulted in improved levels of performance, especially in key components, such as the heat exchanger, pump and controls, which have key roles to play in maximising Maximum heat transfer Modern heat exchanger technology can maximise levels of heat transfer without compromising reliability. The key reasons for this are a combination of stainless steel construction, coupled with the multiple, specially-engineered pipes inside the component. The latter ensures high levels of heat transference, and condensation can be achieved. As a result, it is common for the latest boilers to achieve a %.
In order to achieve maximum have been designed to enhance transference of thermal energy from the burner into the system water. To achieve maximum absorbance of heat, both the water’s turbulence and the pump comes into play.
A modulating circulation pump
of the maximum output. further enhanced by controllability, with built-in cascade boiler controls now common in new commercial units. Incorporating these as part of the main boiler removes the need for additional, external controls, although it is important to consider enhanced connectivity options for easy integration with building management systems is used to keep the (BMS). Compatibility water inside the with common data heat exchanger in protocols used in building a turbulent state. automation, such as This turbulence BACNET, MODbus, LONbus is responsible for and KNX, aids integration agitating the water with BMS, further optimising overall system any insulating barrier between So, when considering the heated water improvement to existing and the wall of the light commercial heating systems, installers and contractors should turn ensuring rapid ensure they utilise the latest in condensing boiler technology. Modern Paul Martin transfer. units have now developed to a stage National sales manager at ATAG As the pump is where maximum performance and Commercial moving water around low NOx emissions are possible, inside a small closed system (between the boiler and the low loss header or heat exchanger, depending on the application), it does not expend a lot of energy, with helping to preserve the lifespan of the heat exchanger itself by reducing the build-up of any precipitates on the heat transfer surface. Exhaust gases When looking to replace aged commercial boilers, another key consideration is the exhaust gases Boilers with specially designed combustion zones inside the heat exchanger will minimise the formation of harmful NOx and CO emissions. Indeed, the NOx emissions for all the boilers in our XL-F range are below mg/kWh (EN ) and achieve the maximum BREEAM credits. Wider ratios Modulation is another key factor when it comes to saving energy, especially as the heat requirements for a boiler vary from season to season (with more heat naturally required during the winter months). Boilers with wide modulation ratios reduce wear and tear on components. This ratio is a boiler’s ability to reduce its maximum output to its minimum output, with a wider range being the preferred option. Units are considered to have an excellent modulation ratio when their minimum output is one tenth ( )
particularly in terms of light commercial wall- standing models. Utilising high quality boilers that are well managed and correctly maintained will ensure high many years. phamnews.co.uk
A new HIU design could help to save valuable space, speed up installation time, and also improve accessibility for future servicing and maintenance. Martin Lowe explains more.
Iam sure that most readers are aware that the HVAC industry is under great pressure to embrace change, both in terms of minimising energy costs and reducing its impact on the environment. In recent times our industry has generally only moved forward by adapting solutions from existing technologies from other industries or other countries. Some times ‘new’ products have also evolved from the combination of existing products, such as pumps, valves, fi ttings, etc, that have been creatively cobbled together on site by skilled craftsmen to solve any immediate problems they have in front of them.
This is a very reactionary approach to the design process, and I wonder if it would be better to use this demand for change as an opportunity to examine, not only energy usage and the supply method, but also how we install, fl ush, commission and maintain systems.
Should we not be taking this opportunity to design and install products that are accessible, serviceable and can be easily changed to meet an unknown future? I believe it is within our power to design in the service and maintenance and thereby minimise future problems rather than create them in the fi rst place. Back to basics
My particular focus at this time is on the development of a brand new HIU (heat interface unit) that will be designed proactively to tackle the challenges that I see ahead of us. To achieve this, I’ve taken a ‘back to basics’ approach on the design of HIUs. I have striven to
Primarily, I have put a focus on making the unit as compact as possible. This will make the HIU locatable not only in a smaller internal space or service cupboard within a dwelling, but also potentially within a ceiling void in a
Martin Lowe
Founder of Lowe Consulting
KEY BENEFITS
Potential to save on space within an apartment
Makes the unit easier to fl ush and commission
Service and maintenance can be performed without the need to schedule an appointment
Parts can be changed without any need to enter an apartment A modular design allows it to be easily adapted to meet changing requirements
The Ultra Compact Heat Interface Unit over a front door
The apartment’s service cupboard with washing machine and MVHR system
This view shows how the cupboard size has been reduced to save space
Typical example of a current HIU with a chilled interface unit
ensure compliance with BSRIA BG29 2021 recommendations and to optimise the HIU in terms of space saving, accessibility (for maintenance) and customisation to meet a wide range of system requirements. corridor. This last location off ers the most exciting benefi ts, because fi rstly it would allow architects and planners to design apartments that are more internally spacious for the eventual occupiers and, secondly, it would allow regular service and maintenance of the units from outside the dwelling without the di culty of disturbing the occupier to arrange access.
Modular design
The next important feature to note with this HIU design concept is its focus on standardised modular construction. This makes it not only easier to subassemble, test and build in the factory, but also makes it as simple as possible to install, service and maintain at point of use. So much so, it is potentially possible for even inexperienced plumbing and heating engineers to carry out the general service and maintenance with the minimum amount of prior training or support.
As it is modular in nature the individual component modules of the unit can be quickly and easily replaced with the minimum disruption to the system (or occupant). Imagine, if you will, that after installation a service and maintenance company pre-purchases spare modules (for both the heating and hot water applications) that could then be held on site (or within a mobile unit of some sort). Then, following a report of a failure and an inspection from a service engineer confi rming that one or more modules is indeed malfunctioning, they can almost instantly have access to the correct replacement parts to quickly change out any malfunctioning modules. This means that the heating and hot water services can be up and running again with the minimum amount of disruption. After that, the off ending unit modules can be sent away for inspection, repair or reconditioning and possible future reuse.
Looking ahead
Beyond these obvious benefi ts, this design also has a good amount of future proofi ng built in. Thanks to its modular and customisable nature it can easily be retrofi tted to meet changing regulations, new technology or adaptions to the system load or hot water supply. ◼ phamnews.co.uk/721/
Growth in demand for electric solutions
-phase electric heating solutions, with the largest increase attributed to commercial installations, says the Electric Heating Company (EHC).
Electric heating is an increasingly viable option for heating properties within social housing throughout the UK. New legislation heralds a change in how SAP determines a property’s ERP Rating – to almost the same as gas. This change allows widespread use of electric radiators and electric boilers, which are widely understood as having low installation maintenance, rapid heat up times
Electric heating systems typically have a lower upfront installation cost than gas, oil or LPG systems. Some may claim that the initial cost savings are higher cost per unit of electricity. However, price projections indicate that the cost of gas is expected to increase and the cost of low carbon alternatives, such as electric, is reducing as government support strengthens to meet climate change targets.
Electric boilers also last about % longer than oil or gas boilers alternatives because the lack of moving parts massively reduces the risk of a breakdown or wear and tear. There is also no mandatory annual service, thereby providing further cost savings.
An electric heating system is also very easy to install as there is absolutely no need for any electrical circuit, which means that the radiators and boilers can be installed almost anywhere in a property, without any restriction on building work or design.
Over the last 8 months there the demand for 3-phase electric heating solutions. While there has been more demand for large domestic dwellings, the largest increase is attributed to commercial installations such as schools, hotels, small-to-medium -phase Astro, Comet and Mercury combi boilers which are available from to kW depending on operation and, with the correct phamnews.co.uk/
Getting the air out of low temperature systems
Adding to its range of vacuum degassers, Spirotech has introduced the SpiroVent Superior S for smaller commercial closed heating and cooling systems. Suitable for locations such as schools, restaurants and larger domestic properties, it is designed to operate almost silently.
The S has been created in response to increased demand for low-temperature systems, such as where air can be released from. Air in a system leads to corrosion and destructive sludge, also creating noise from components such as pumps, which
Business director Rob Jacques says: “Unlike with higher temperature systems where you can predict where air will appear and then expel it with deaerators, in the new low-temperature systems it’s often impossible to determine where that would be. With a vacuum degasser, this is no longer an issue, improving service.” phamnews.co.uk/
Electric boilers pull their weight on site
The E-Tech electric boiler range from ACV is being used by Rapid Energy to supply customers with equipment for temporary plant rooms and boiler hire services. The ACV equipment is being used for trolley electric boiler models from kW output, single and three phase options, as well as combined heating and hot water models. -founder of Rapid Energy, says: “Their main use on construction sites is to reduce the drying time of screed. However, with the E-tech W kW boiler being available as a single phase, it makes it ideal for housing developments, so they’re also used for only intended to buy around units to create the trolley mounted systems, however demand for these products has been so popular we now have .” phamnews.co.uk/
Enhanced air source additions
Two new models have been added to Elco’s Aerotop range of air source heat pumps. The new Aerotop M is available in outputs from to kW, while the larger Aerotop L can deliver outputs from to kW. All models in the range are reversible and can manifolds for arrangements of up to four heat pumps, while units can be managed by a cascade controller.
This range has an A++ ErP Energy Rating, COPs up to , and SCOP up to . They also use R refrigerant circuits, boasting heating and cooling mode, as well as a % reduction in Global Warming Potential (GWP) compared to R A refrigerant.
Units are quiet running, with brushless DC inverter fans, inverter pump and anti-vibration mounts to limit sound levels. The models integrate with Elco’s condensing gas boilers. Such an arrangement allows systems to maximise the heat pumps’ COPs throughout the year, while boiler technology when outside temperatures drop. phamnews.co.uk/
As the UK looks to move towards its net zero target, hybrid systems
With approaching we would like, we need to consider all available options rather than a binary selection between heat pumps and hydrogen- many see heat pumps as the most readily available option applications, the original system design and building construction may require a Heat networks
Tackling our carbon emissions priority and so it’s essential we
Pete Mills
Commercial technical operations manager at Bosch Commercial & Industrial considered to be the primary developments, where heating and hot water are powered technology, however, comes at a cost that adds considerably to the initial capital investment,
An air source heat pump, outside air temperature and will On the other hand, a ground source heat pump tends to be -round temperature situations, but is not going to be the solution, increasingly likely that as we edge towards the net zero target, current boilers will be replaced by hydrogen-ready Hydrogen is also a carbon- energy source and combustion Hybrid approach
hybrid system is the reduced alterations needed to an To substitute a gas boiler or -based system totally with a heat pump is likely to require radiators and pipework suitably
This is why hybrid systems are looking to be introduced on a wider scale, as opposed to heat pumps only, as they can are likely to be replaced by hydrogen ones, when needed, and it looks like they could be mandatory when replacing rooms now, we will be able to low carbon heat sources more and small developments, to be
To conclude, hybrid systems could be a smarter approach could be even more important as we head towards phamnews.co.uk
