Climate Control News Nov 2017

Innovative Products 2018 Showcase NOVEMBER 2017 Focus on Training Ammonia safety

Climate Control News www.climatecontrolnews.com.au

Compressors, Condensers & Evaporators Feature

WATCH THE VIDEO

BITZER ECOSTAR + BUFFALO TRIDENT PS EVD-ICE: INTELLIGENT SOLUTIONS.

PS-EVD ICE EVAPORATOR

PRINT POST APPROVED 100005357

INTELLIGENT COMPRESSORS

EASY SETUP

EASY MONITORING

EASY ACCESS

DAIKIN VRV AHU AN INDUSTRY FIRST VRV AHU DESIGNED AND ENGINEERED BY DAIKIN, CREATES NEW OPPORTUNITIES FOR APPLYING VRV INTO RETAIL, OFFICES, CINEMAS AND COMMERCIAL APPLICATIONS WITH LARGE OPEN SPACESV IV Heat Pump offers greater design flexibility, improved energy with Variable Refrigerant Temperature -performance Available in two types, Standard Series or Outdoor Air Series control, superior comfort and reliability of - Daikin’s VRV AHU are paired with VRV IV Heat Pump operations, outdoor and with a &wide of product offerings to unitscomes for superior EER COP range performance the all needs ofofthe commercial building.

-meet Harnesses features VRVmodern IV Heat Pump including Variable Refrigerant Technology (VRT) , Daikin’s Inverter Technology and connection to BM systems *

NEW Available Now

STANDARD SERIES CAPACITY RANGE

AIRFLOW RANGE

- TO -

- TO -

15.4kW 900L/S

167.6kW 7,800L/S

- Optional EC Plug Fan for improved energy efficiency and precise airflow control

OUTDOOR AIR SERIES

- ESP of up to 500Pa enables flexible ductwork design and the use of bag filters where appropriate

25.7kW 566L/S

- Ultimate installation flexibility

202.6kW 4,550L/S

› Single skin or Double skin with either 25mm or 50mm thick PU insulated panels and Thermal Break options. It is also possible to enable outdoor installation of the VRV AHU

CAPACITY RANGE

AIRFLOW RANGE

- TO -

- TO -

› Long pipe runs of up to 165m › Custom configurations possible to suit site constraints

Visit commercial.daikin.com.au or call us on 1300 368 300

*Applies only to Standard Series models

Contents

Innovative Products

18

26

Climate Control News November 2017

In the news Training review

06

Submissions closed last week for the Federal Government’s HVACR training review.

Payment terms

08

Small Business Ombudsman recommends faster payment terms for subcontractors.

A 12-page feature showcasing the most innovative case studies and product releases both here and overseas. This is in addition to the latest engineering trends and the biggest corporate plans for 2018.

This month Record rating

36 Innovative Products 2018 Showcase NOVEMBER 2017 Focus on Training

26

Ammonia safety

Climate Control News www.climatecontrolnews.com.au

The B2 data centre has achieved the highest efficiency rating in Australia.

Honeywell restructure

Compressors, Condensers & Evaporators Feature

WATCH THE VIDEO

BITZER ECOSTAR + BUFFALO TRIDENT PS EVD-ICE: INTELLIGENT SOLUTIONS.

29

Honeywell has announced a major restructure for 2018.

PS-EVD ICE EVAPORATOR

Draft standard

10

Special report

30

World News

12

Intelligent engineering

32

A draft standard has been released for residential climate control systems.

Current and former US presidents have a lot to say about the HFC phasedown.

Ammonia safety

14

A special report from the Ammonia Safety Awareness and Training Forum.

Annual 10-page compressors, condensers and evaporators feature.

Bitzer’s new BDC Series condenser has been refined to meet even more capacity requirements.

Flammable refrigerants 40 How to make a safe transition to next generation refrigerants.

PRINT POST APPROVED 100005357

INTELLIGENT COMPRESSORS

EASY SETUP

EASY MONITORING

EASY ACCESS

Cover Beautifully designed and manufactured in Germany, the BITZER ECOSTAR is a quiet, efficient condensing unit that is easy to open, clean and maintain.

Integration with BITZER’s IQ module means it is set up for intelligent and wireless compressor monitoring with our BEST software. With a sound level of less than 45dBA in ‘eco’ or night mode, the ECOSTAR is quiet, efficient and intelligent. For further information, contact BITZER or visit www.bitzer.com.au.

CLIMATE CONTROL NEWS NOVEMBER 2017

3

Editorial

Climate Control News EDITOR Sandra Van Dijk Ph: (02) 9213 8277 sandravandijk@yaffa.com.au NATIONAL SALES MANAGER Michael Northcott Ph: 0420 403 044 michaelnorthcott@yaffa.com.au ADVERTISING PRODUCTION Michelle Carneiro Ph: (02) 9213 8219 michellecarneiro@yaffa.com.au SUBSCRIPTIONS GREATMAGAZINES.COM.AU CALL 1800 807 760 SUBSCRIPTIONS@YAFFA.COM.AU

Signs of change PROGRESS IN THIS INDUSTRY TENDS TO BE GRADUAL. LIKE SUCCESS, IT DOESN'T HAPPEN OVERNIGHT. Sandra Van Dijk – Editor

BUT AS 2017 draws to a close its fair to say that there are signs of big changes set to take place in the new year.

I need both hands to count all of the industry reviews that are currently underway.

There are reviews for everything from training to licensing (in several states), the National Construction Code (NCC), security of payment review, and many more.

We all know that reviews are carried out with the intention of instituting change.

With so many reviews underway its fair to say that we should be preparing for some big changes in the months ahead.

A review is pointless without a result or outcome, so I am looking forward to the final reports, recommendations and announcements (the great finale).

Hopefully, all of this activity will lead to industry-wide improvements we can all enjoy in 2018.

4

CLIMATECONTROLNEWS.COM.AU

I really don't expect any big announcements before Christmas but all the signs of change are there for all to see.

Thankfully, reviews tend to inspire optimism.

They hold the promise of a good outcome – its our chance to create change for the better.

We already know 2018 will be busy, its an ARBS year, and they are always hectic.

For the first time in many years the ARBS Exhibition returns to Sydney at the newly built International Convention Centre (ICC) in Darling Harbour.

To be held from May 8-10, I am betting readers are already preparing for the three day event. So what’s the verdict, are we on the verge of great things to come?

As adults we know that crossing our fingers or wishing on a star won't get the job done. We need to act. And that's exactly what TriTech Refrigeration has done with its new ammonia safety course, turn to page 14 for all the details.

Also in this issue is a three page report on how to make a safe transition to next generation (flammable) refrigerants.

And finally our annual compressors, condensers and evaporators feature begins on page 30.

What are your plans for 2018?

I would love to hear from you email sandravandijk@yaffa.com.au ✺

SUBSCRIPTION RATES 1 year $99.00 Overseas 1 year NZ A$110

ASIA A$125

ROW A$170 PUBLISHER Helen Davies CUSTOMER SERVICE MANAGER Martin Phillpott MARKETING MANAGER Sabarinah Elijah MARKETING EXECUTIVE Jasmine Gale PRODUCTION DIRECTOR Matthew Gunn ART DIRECTOR Ana Heraud STUDIO MANAGER Lauren Esdaile DESIGNER Bree Edgar YAFFA CUSTOM CONTENT DIRECTOR Matt Porter Ph: (02) 9213 8209 mattporter@yaffa.com.au CLIMATE CONTROL NEWS is published by Yaffa Media Pty Ltd ABN 54 002 699 354, 17-21 Bellevue Street, Surry Hills NSW 2010.

Ph: (02) 9281 2333 Fax: (02) 9281 2750 ALL MAIL TO: GPO Box 606, Sydney NSW 2001

ISSN 1446-6937.

Member Circulations Audit Board.

THE COMPLETE PACKAGE With the revolutionary Carel EVD Ice Superheat control factory fitted and optional Ultracap, Cabero Pro is a great deal better.

Available at

News

Training will focus on the essential knowledge and skills required for RAC technicians.

The secret is out

Trade training and skills for HVACR industry under review THE FEDERAL GOVERNMENT HAS ANNOUNCED A REVIEW OF HVACR TRADE TRAINING AND SKILLS. THE REVIEW RECOGNISES that current certifications and training for the trade are out of date and in need of a complete overhaul.

Current qualifications are based on the UEE06 Electrotechnology Training Package, which was first released in November 2006 and are based on industry requirements more than 15 years ago.

The Electrotechnology Industry Reference Council developed two cases for change for the UEE11 Electrotechnology Training Package and sought feedback which ended close of business October 20, 2017.

The changes involve the development of new training products in the following areas: 1. Certificate III in Refrigeration and Air Conditioning Trade Qualification and 50 Units of Competency ; 2. Certificate IV in Advanced Refrigeration and Air Conditioning Trade Qualification and 30 Units of Competency; 3. New Units of Competency in the handling A2 Flammable Refrigerants and the recovery of refrigerant from stationary self-contained end of life decommissioned equipment.

The council's case for change recommends training cover the essential knowledge and skills required for RAC technicians including the generic skills required to install, commis-

6

CLIMATECONTROLNEWS.COM.AU

sion, test, fault find, repair, replace components and maintain equipment.

This is instead of trying to cover too many specialisations in core units.

"It is currently very difficult for an apprentice to acquire all the required skills and work experience to be able to achieve competency in all of the specified specialisations," the council said.

"This new qualification will alleviate this problem because it will focus on providing the essential knowledge and skills required by all competent refrigeration and air conditioning technicians."

The new Certificate IV in Advanced Refrigeration and Air Conditioning will contain the Cert III core units and a choice of AQF 4 level specialisation electives covering higher level skills or more complicated equipment and systems.

Meanwhile the two new units of competency will provide skills in the handling of A2 flammable refrigerants as well as how to recover refrigerant from decommissioned equipment.

Many Class 2 refrigerants are new to the Australian market and this unit will also provide gap training for existing workers so they can safely use and handle flammable synthetic refrigerants that can't be released to the atmosphere.

The unit for refrigerant recovery was developed at the request of the Australian Refrigeration Council (ARC) to establish a national unit of competency to meet the training requirements of its Refrigerant Handling License.

At present the only training requirement is a knowledge assessment and a practical assessment by an approved assessor.

PSST, THE SECRET is out. HVACR really is a great trade but do we need to tell everyone?

According to readers, we certainly do.

Last week CCN invited readers to give HVACR a sexy makeover by suggesting ways to make the industry more appealing to school leavers.

It was a mixed response but most readers agreed it is all about the presentation and the need to give HVACR more of a slick and polished edge.

Koldpak general manager, Giles Waldock, said apprentices want to know they are entering a trade that is interesting and will also make them money.

"They need to know they will get to see and do interesting things," Waldock said. "Take a well known place like a football stadium, then show a fridgie working on an impressive refrigeration system."

"Then deliver the tagline: I keep the beer cold for 60,000 fans on grand final night."

Waldock said it could be similar to the Navy and Air Force recruitment advertisements which show "I learned this and now I work on this."

"There are so many aspects of the industry we could showcase with apprentices working everywhere from cruise liners to skyscrapers," he said.

BM Refrigeration Services owner, Brendan McDonagh, said a good start would be greater industrial representation and better recognition as a trade.

"The industry needs more prestige, similar to plumbers and the electrical trade," he said.

Have a great idea? Send it to sandravandijk@yaffa.com.au.

For more training news, turn to page 14.

MINI GAME CHANGER

Mini FSV from Panasonic Panasonic is delivering extraordinary energy efficiency, compact design and ultra-quiet operation for Australia’s modern apartment installations with its new Single Fan Mini-FSV LE2 Series.

(12.1kW, 14.0kW, 15.5kW)

High external static pressure

Class-leading energy saving

Ultra Quiet Operation

Extra-Long Piping Length

Up to 35Pa

EER: 4.50 COP: 5.19 (12.1kW model)

Only 45dB(A) (12.1kW model)

Up to 180m

To find out more about the new range of Panasonic Mini FSV Air Conditioners: Contact 1300 COMFORT (1300 266 367) or visit www.panasonic.com.au

2014, 2016, 2017

News

Ombudsman recommends prompt payment policies for subcontractors LEFT: Small Business Ombudsman, Kate Carnell.

THE AUSTRALIAN SMALL BUSINESS AND FAMILY ENTERPRISE OMBUDSMAN IS EXAMINING PAYMENT TERMS AND CONDITIONS FOR SUBCONTRACTORS WORKING ON GOVERNMENT PROJECTS.

OMBUDSMAN KATE CARNELL said small business "subbies" are vulnerable to delayed payments, which can have an adverse impact on their livelihoods and the broader economy.

"Most government departments pay their invoices within 30 days, but when a prime contractor is appointed to manage a project there are regularly delayed payments further down the chain," Carnell said.

"Government agencies and prime contractors should ensure that payment terms and conditions throughout the supply chain are no worse than those in the head contract.

"It's not good enough to leave responsibility with a head contractor and overlook small businesses who do much of the work."

Carnell said cashflow was vital to small business success.

"Cashflow is king," she said.

"A lack of cashflow is the leading cause of business insolvency and this underscores

the importance of prompt payments."

Carnell has written to seven government departments seeking information about their procurement and payment policies.

It follows her inquiry into payment times, which recommended the government pay invoices within 15 days. The inquiry also recommended: • The Australian Government require its head contractors to adopt the payment times and practices of the procurement policy through the supply chain; • The Australian Government extend its payment policies to all agencies and entities; • The Australian Government publish its payment times and policies, and for all its agencies and entities, with performance against best practice benchmarks; • The Australian Government procure from businesses which have supply-chain payment times and practices equal to or better than its practices.

The inquiry also recommended that all levels of government adopt the same promptpayment policies.

At the same time the Federal Government is reviewing security of payment laws in the building and construction industry.

The Airconditioning and Mechanical Contractors' Association (AMCA) has made a submission to the review highlighting the problem of different laws in each state across Australia which has a significant impact on the level of protection afforded to subcontractors.

In its submission, the AMCA said the review is critically important for subcontractors because insolvency in the building and construction industry is unacceptably high.

AMCA executive director, Sumit Oberoi, said competition is fierce among contractors.

"The situation is made worse because tenders are often selected based on the lowest price," he said.

"Security of payment is also a big concern because most subcontractors are small to medium sized enterprises, often they are family owned businesses."

A final report is being prepared for the government to consider by December 31, 2017.

Call to ban flammable cladding

FROM TOP: CFMEU's Dave Noonan; Assistant Industry Minister, Craig Laundy.

8

THE FEDERAL GOVERNMENT’S refusal to support a ban on the importation of the cladding material responsible for the deadly Grenfell Tower disaster is putting the lives of construction workers and residents in high rise units at risk, the Construction Forestry Mining and Energy Union (CFMEU) has warned.

The union welcomed the Opposition's commitment to ban the use of highly flammable polyethylene (PE) cladding products as a matter of urgency.

A Labor government would slap new penalties on builders and companies that knowingly used dangerous cladding and also establish an authority to regulate the building industry.

Federal Labor leader Bill Shorten has pledged to ban the import and use of aluminium composite cladding. The CFMEU said the deadly product continues to find its way onto Australian construction sites.

CFMEU Construction national secretary, Dave Noonan, said the union has been demanding action from

CLIMATECONTROLNEWS.COM.AU

the government for the past two years.

In the wake of the Grenfell fire, the union has advised members to refuse to install the cladding on commercial building sites.

"Fire authorities, unions and even property developers support a ban on these combustible cladding products entering Australian ports, which is the most effective way of ensuring they don't end up in Australian homes and workplaces," he said. But Assistant Industry Minister, Craig Laundy, said it is already illegal to use the cladding on high-rise buildings and this law just needs to be enforced.

"This product is actually also made by companies in Australia so a ban at the border would do nothing about those companies," he said.

"The cladding can be used legally in shop fronts and outdoor signage. There is no need to have an across the board ban for something that can be used legally in certain environments."

RECOGNISING

EXCELLENCE The ARBS Industry Awards recognise achievements and excellence in individual performance, projects, products, services and education categories within the HVAC&R and building services sector.

NOMINATIONS NOW OPEN www.arbs.com.au

Proudly sponsored by

Winners will be announced at the ARBS Industr y Awards Gala Dinner to be held on 9th May, 2018 in Sydney

News

3D modelling to transform urban planning THE CRC FOR Low Carbon Living (CRCLCL) recently held a special symposium discussing exciting new research into Precinct Information Modelling (PIM), a type of 3D digital prototyping that promises to be a game changer for planning future city precincts.

PIM is not a software tool, rather it is an open-source, public information modelling standard that, by its nature, cannot be commercialised. It is designed to provide a framework for representing the data required to achieve carbon neutrality of the urban assets that constitute a precinct.

"PIM entails a process that is supported by a digital database technology that can be used by a wide range of industry practitioners responsible for the planning, design, delivery and operational management of the built environment," explained CRCLCL project leader, Jim Plume.

The concept of PIM is an extension of the currently used Building Information Modelling (BIM), a 3D digital modelling process that is used widely within the building design, construction and facility management professions. According to Plume, adapting this current technology within an opensource PIM structure could make a serious difference in reducing carbon emissions and ensuring future city precincts are sustainable and carbon neutral.

"After three years of research looking at how this data can be structured and operated in an open source model, we are now at the threshold of putting it into practice," he said. "The next step is for industry and the community to start using PIM."

ABOVE: The PIM concept is an extension of Business Information Modelling (BIM).

10

CLIMATECONTROLNEWS.COM.AU

Draft standard for residential climate control systems THE AUSTRALIAN INSTITUTE OF REFRIGERATION, AIR CONDITIONING AND HEATING (AIRAH) AND STANDARDS AUSTRALIA HAVE RELEASED FOR PUBLIC COMMENT A DRAFT VERSION OF DR AS/NZS 5141: 201X, RESIDENTIAL CLIMATE CONTROL SYSTEMS – MINIMUM APPLICATIONS AND REQUIREMENTS FOR ENERGY EFFICIENCY, PERFORMANCE AND COMFORT CRITERIA. STANDARDS AUSTRALIA CEO, Dr Bronwyn Evans, said the standard was prepared by the Joint Standards Australia/Standards New Zealand Committee EE-001, Residential Air Conditioning.

"This standard sets out the requirements for the design, selection, installation, commissioning and maintenance of residential climate control heating, cooling and air conditioning systems," Dr Evans said.

"Maximising the energy efficiency of these systems was a key consideration by the committee, as well as the safety and comfort of building occupants."

AIRAH CEO, Tony Gleeson, said regulation aimed at improving the efficiency of residential climate control is overdue.

"There's been a tremendous amount of work over the past few years on improving the efficiency of HVAC in many building types. However, the residential sector just hasn't had the attention that's been focused on, for example, commercial, university, or public buildings," Gleeson said.

"At the same time, our intense summers mean the penetration of residential air conditioning to Australian households is understandably high and growing. For health and comfort reasons, more Australians than ever have seen the need to cool their homes. They've done this, however, at a time of ever-increasing utility costs and amid a general awareness that our country must reduce its emissions if it's to meet our Paris Agreement commitments.

"Given that a substantial percentage of a building's energy use is dedicated to HVAC, making residential comfort cooling as efficient as possible just makes sense. A residential climate control standard will go a long way towards making this happen."

AIRAH's executive manager for government and technical services, Phil Wilkinson, said setting minimum standards for energy efficiency for climate control systems will offer greater consumer protection.

"Another impact of having clearly defined minimum application requirements for residential climate control is that even greater rigour will be applied to our industry. The fly-by-nighters, cowboys and unscrupulous operators will hopefully be driven out of the industry for good," Wilkinson said.

"AIRAH first proposed a draft version of the residential air conditioning standard in 2011, and has worked tirelessly since then with Standards Australia to bring the standard to this point." âœş Deadline for comment is December 1, 2017.

LEFT: Phil Wilkinson

new release to the Australian market

latest

exclusive to

the in packaged cooling solutions

Optyma™ Slim Pack Refrigeration Units Lightweight Size. Heavyweight Performance.

Designed for medium and low-temperature refrigeration applications A new energy efficient option from Danfoss. The Optyma Slim Pack offers a reliable, compact & cost effective solution.

Call your local branch for full technical information & selection support.

1800 671 500 www.airefrig.com.au sales@airefrig.com.au

World News

PRESIDENTS JOIN HFC TUSSLE

THE BATTLE TO SUPPORT THE PHASEDOWN OF HFCS IN THE UNITED STATES ISN'T JUST BEING FOUGHT IN WASHINGTON. THE FIGHT IS CONTINUING IN THE COURTS.

Battle of corporate giants in US Court of Appeals CHEMOURS AND HONEYWELL have filed a petition appealing a recent US court decision to overturn restrictions on HFC refrigerants by the Environmental Protection Authority (EPA).

In August, the US Court of Appeals for the District of Columbia overturned EPA directives to ban high GWP refrigerants like R404A, R134a, R407C and R410A from use in certain applications from as early as January 1, 2021.

In the case, brought by refrigerant manufacturers Mexichem and Arkema, the Court decided 2-1 that the EPA could not use a section of the Clean Air Act to target HFCs. The court decision was a victory for HFC makers Mexichem and Arkema and a loss for Honeywell International and Chemours who believe the Court's ruling exceeded its jurisdiction.

The decision was a huge shock for industry with America's Air Conditioning, Heating and Refrigeration Institute (AHRI) the first to foreshadow an appeal by Honeywell and Chemours.

Just in case the appeal fails, the AHRI is researching other potential options and is working closely with the Government Affairs Committee to develop a formal industry position on how HFC and refrigerant regulation is best addressed.

Honeywell and Chemours maintain that the SNAP program is instrumental in supporting American innovation, manufacturing and global competitiveness in commercialising next-generation technologies.

As a result of this support, they argue that American companies have invested well over $1 billion in the development of the low GWP, fourth generation HFO solutions.

"This regulation is well supported by the law

12

CLIMATECONTROLNEWS.COM.AU

and we are confident that when this decision is reviewed that the original intent of fostering innovation while protecting human health and the environment will be restored," Honeywell said in its statement.

Fellow manufacturer Chemours said, "The view that the preservation of this rule is in the best interest of the public, the environment and US industry is shared by a growing number of states, academia and businesses. The world will continue to focus on safer and more energy efficient solutions. Chemours remains committed to continuing to support these market and societal needs."

It is also worth noting that Arkema and Honeywell have been engaged in legal wrangling in Europe for many years.

Earlier this year Arkema renewed its complaint with the European Commission over Honeywell International's refusal to license Arkema to produce the low-global-warming refrigerant hydrofluoroolefin (HFO)-1234yf. The French firm accuses Honeywell of dominating the HFO-1234yf market and preventing fair competition. ✺

ABOVE: Chemours and Honeywell have filed a petition appealing a US court decision to overturn restrictions on HFC refrigerants.

RIGHT TOP: US President Donald Trump has been busy signing executive orders repealing a host of climate regulations.

RIGHT BOTTOM LTO R: Former president Barack Obama supports the phasedown of HFCs; The Montreal Protocol was originally signed by former president Ronald Reagan in 1988.

America’s HVACR industry is hard at work lobbying the Trump administration in a bid to maintain the Kigali Amendment to phasedown hydrofluorocarbons (HFCs).

Since taking office, US President Donald Trump has signed a slew of executive orders repealing climate regulations he believes could potentially hurt American business.

However, corporate giants Honeywell and Chemours are defending regulations introduced during the Obama era to phaseout refrigerants that contribute to greenhouse emissions.

Former President Barack Obama led world leaders in 2016 to amend the Montreal Protocol to phasedown HFCs. Although Trump removed the US from the Paris Climate Agreement earlier this year, the HVACR industry want to ensure the Kigali amendment remains in place.

Honeywell and Chemours have invested millions of dollars in technology aimed at eliminating HFCs. Trying to appease Republicans, the Alliance for Responsible Atmospheric Policy pointed out that the Montreal Protocol was initially signed by former president Ronald Reagan in 1988.

The group’s executive director, Kevin Fay, said it is Reagan-era environmental policy done right. However, the Caesar Rodney Institute (CRI) said the rule Reagan signed is not the one that exists today.

CRI analyst, David Stevenson, said Obama expanded the policy to include global warming, requiring very expensive changes in the refrigerant market that most companies cannot afford.

“ THERE ARE TOUGH CHALLENGES ON ANY JOB – INSTALLING A HITACHI SYSTEM IS NEVER ONE OF THEM.” Global pioneers of cutting-edge air conditioning systems, Hitachi has been redefining climate control possibilities for over 30-years. smartphone control available

Call us on 1800 211 800 to find out more.

Temperzone

ask instore for details

Hitachi products are proudly distributed by Temperzone. Temperzone offer a complete range of air conditioning solutions from commercial to residential, ensuring you can meet all your customers needs.

Training

A GROWING INTEREST IN AMMONIA HAS LED TO THE CREATION OF A FULL DAY AMMONIA SAFETY AWARENESS AND TRAINING FORUM.

Ammonia safety forum gets top marks THE INAUGURAL EVENT which was held in Sydney recently was attended by more than 50 participants.

Organised by private RTO, the Superior Training Centre and leading industrial and commercial refrigeration specialists, Tri Tech Refrigeration, the course provides participants with a nationally recognised certificate.

Attendees sit for a test at the end of the day and those that pass receive a Statement of Attainment.

The aim of the course is to get participants comfortable with ammonia.

14

CLIMATECONTROLNEWS.COM.AU

More than 85 per cent of attendees at the training forum passed the test and were certified.

The course, which covers occupational health and safety issues as well as new standards, was presented by former TAFE teacher and Tri Tech engineer, Peter McQueen.

Tri Tech Refrigeration director, Greg Atkinson, said interest in ammonia is growing especially from end users.

“It is spoken about a lot more today with the phasedown of HFCs,” he said.

“The phasedown has provided industry with a window of opportunity.

“Change doesn't have to be a scary nightmare. Its actually a chance for technicians to upskill and make a higher income in a safe and environmentally responsible way.

“Its also a chance for industry to not only survive but f lourish over the next decade.”

Atkinson's optimism was shared by many of the attendees who talked about embracing change.

“The aim of the course is to get participants more comfortable with ammonia and to try to remove a lot of the fears that arise from being uninformed,” he said.

“Safety doesn't have to be a barrier to trade or innovation, with the right information it can open up new markets and opportunities.”

INTEREST IN AMMONIA GROWING WORLDWIDE Interest in ammonia isn’t just growing locally, it is on the rise worldwide.

International ammonia expert, Dr Dermot Cotter of Star Technical Solutions, said end users are the main beneficiaries of this trend.

“The global trend towards using natural refrigerants is growing and this holds great opportunities for end-users,” Cotter said.

“Innovative alternatives with extremely high efficiencies such as low charge ammonia refrigeration technology are now emerging and making it feasible to use ammonia, a highly efficient, non-patented refrigerant with zero GWP, in a variety of industrial and commercial applications- which had never been thought possible before.

“Fortunately, the growth in ammonia refrigeration systems brings improved technical guidelines and safety regulations which everyone needs to be aware of.

“Good practices need to be followed to minimise the risk of an ammonia release this includes protocols which should be in place for mechanical integrity inspections.”

Through advanced cooling solutions Temperzone offers occupants total control over their comfort.

97%

75%

50%

22.0°C

OCCUPANCY

HUMIDITY

TEMPERATURE°

OPTIMUM

COMFORT

Introducing the ever-expanding ECO Ultra range – it’s the technology for tomorrow, today.

Free call 1800 211 800 or email sales@temperzone.com.au for more information.

Giving you complete control

Training

“WHAT I LOVED MOST ABOUT THIS TRAINING FORUM WAS ITS HONESTY, THERE WAS NO MARKETING FLUFF OR FAKE, UNNECESSARY INFORMATION." - Superior Training Centre director, Richard Bencic.

TOP AND THIS IMAGE: Course organisers believe the HFC phasedown has provided industry with a window of opportunity.

16

CLIMATECONTROLNEWS.COM.AU

When the course was created Atkinson said it was important to ensure that it wasn't just another refrigerant talkfest.

“A good teacher inspires and that's what the industry needs so we got the experts together with the Superior Training Centre, who are passionate about training, and tried to make the forum informative but also fun and rewarding,” Atkinson said.

Superior Training Centre director, Richard Bencic, said the course content was direct and to the point.

“What I loved most about this training forum was its honesty, there was no marketing fluff or fake, unnecessary information,” he said.

“It got the point and that's where it stayed, there was no time-wasting.”

Atkinson said he is working hard to keep course costs to an absolute minimum.

“I have been in the industry a long time and it has been good to me so its important to give back,” he said.

“We are in the midst of an era of change and progress but we are not going to move forward if everyone just sits on their hands and waits for everyone else to do the heavy lifting.”

Industrial fire and risk engineering company, Blackie Mendham Pty Ltd (BMPL), also supported the forum.

BMPL technical director, Steve Sylvester, said changing a refrigeration or air conditioning system to natural refrigerants raises particular hazards and risks that must, by law, be identified and controlled within the system design.

“We can provide certified hazardous area solutions for standard or novel installations,” he said. ✺

TWO NEW STANDARDS PROPOSED International Institute of Ammonia Refrigeration (IIAR) is the world’s leading advocate for the safe, reliable and efficient use of ammonia and other natural refrigerants.

With more than 2,500 members the IIAR is actively involved in the development of standards. For example, the IIAR recently proposed two new standards.

The working title for IIAR 6 is Inspection, Testing, and Maintenance of Safe ClosedCircuit Ammonia Refrigeration Systems This proposed standard specifies minimum criteria for inspection, testing, and maintenance of closed-circuit ammonia mechanical refrigeration systems, including the ammonia side of a cascade refrigeration system.

The working title for IIAR 9 is the Recognized and Generally Accepted Good Engineering Practices (RAGAGEP) for Existing Closed-Circuit Ammonia Refrigeration Systems This proposed standard will help companies ascertain whether or not their existing systems should be updated to reflect new requirements from newly published and revised standards.

This standard provides a method of evaluating existing systems against requirements that should apply to all closed-circuit ammonia refrigeration systems regardless of age and will help determine what can or can’t be “grandfathered” in regard to system design.

Opticlean - The Invisible Air Diffuser Solution High induction radial air diffuser.

Integrates with commercially available perforated metal works ceiling systems.

• Armstrong • SAS International • Lindner • and more Creates a clean air layer to avoid unsightly ceiling smudging.

HIgH INduCtION CLeAN AIr LAyer

For thermal comfort with low indoor air velocities and even temperature gradients - the invisible Krantz Opticlean.

Get your key to Opticlean Design from Holyoake

Holyoake Industries is the appointed distribution partner for Krantz products & systems, Australia and New Zealand.

INduCed rOOm AIr

Innovative Products 2018

Smaller fans deliver

big payoff for iconic Riverside Centre THE RECENT MULTI-MILLIONDOLLAR UPGRADE OF ONE OF BRISBANE'S LARGEST BUILDINGS, RIVERSIDE CENTRE, OWNED AND OPERATED BY THE GPT GROUP, HAS SET A NEW BENCHMARK FOR INNOVATIVE HVAC REFURBISHMENT.

C

OMPACT EC PLUG fans were used to replace large and inefficient backward curved double-width double-inlet (DWDI) fans. The upgrade of the 30-year-old building aimed to elevate the Riverside Centre to a 5.5 star NABERS energy rating and has also delivered in maintaining its status as one of Brisbane's premium, iconic office towers.

The project is a strong example of successful collaboration between the four main parties involved in a building's HVAC upgrade – building manager, consultant, contractor and supplier.

Constructed in 1986, the 40-storey Riverside Centre was hailed as "Brisbane's first intelligent building", an approach Brett Saunders, CEO at Hiflow, pursues in his own work.

"When I saw the project come through I jumped at it. This is what I've been waiting for," he said.

After 30 years, the original DWDI fans were approaching their end of life.

Andrew Prentice, mechanical engineer at Interior Engineering and consultant on the project, said the fans displayed the usual issues of bearing failure, bearing lubrication issues, belt and pulley wear, as well as some signs of pitting corrosion on the fan wheels.

Riverside operations manager, Clint Francis, said other drives for the HVAC upgrade were increased energy efficiency and customer comfort.

He said logistical challenges also had to be considered as the building's location in Brisbane's CBD made refurbishment of the existing large fans difficult.

"From the sourcing of new components or entirely new fans, to the delivery of these into small areas that are not easily accessible, it seemed practical and feasible to replace the

18

CLIMATECONTROLNEWS.COM.AU

Innovative Products 2018

existing fans in favour of EC plug fan technolog," Francis said.

When the original design for the HVAC upgrade, consisting of the replacement of six air handling units, was put to tender, it specified fewer and larger EC plug fans.

But after reviewing the project, Thomas Heine, market manager at ebm-papst, put forward another option and that was to select a smaller individual fan size (500mm instead of 630mm).

This was due to logistics considerations as well as a reduction of actual available space because of the upgrade and enlargement of the coils.

According to Hiflow's Saunders, the aim was to minimise size while gaining efficiency.

"The project led to a breakthrough in installation, handling, efficiency and serviceability of the AHUs," Saunders said.

"THE PROJECT LED TO A BREAKTHROUGH IN INSTALLATION, AND SERVICEABILITY OF THE AHU’S,"

- Hiflow's Brett Saunders said.

Up to 10 500mm ebm-papst EC plug fans replaced one large DWDI fan. The plug fans are aligned in a five-by-two grid and mounted off the floor, removing the need to add floor mounts.

Hiflow's Josh Mitchell, project manager for the upgrade, said the new EC fans are fully integrated into the building's BMS via high level interface and part of the zone pressurisation in fire mode.

Mitchell said he approached the project with serviceability in mind.

"I know that with a smaller fan a technician and an apprentice can remove and replace it.

Once you start moving into the larger, heavier fans, the client gets more downtime, because you can't just send two people in to lift it," he said.

This view was shared by the consultant Andrew Prentice.

"Typically, the smaller and lighter the equipment, the easier it is to install," he said.

"Using a crane to get equipment into a building in Brisbane's CBD is just not realistic.

"Instead, the fans were simply delivered on pallet jacks via the goods lift." ✺ ABOVE: The team that delivered the HVAC upgrade (from left): Brett Saunders (Hiflow); Clint Francis, (The GPT Group); Thomas Heine, (ebm-papst A&NZ); Andrew Prentice, (Interior Engineering); Josh Mitchell, (Hiflow).

RIGHT: Brisbane’s iconic Riverside Centre.

MAIN: Heine inspects one of the air handling units after the upgrade.

FINANCIAL FEASIBILITY While installation and handling are important factors at the time of refurbishment, financial feasibility was also an important consideration.

CBD-based office buildings are typically premium properties due to their central location.

Building owners and operators, such as The GPT Group, who have owned and operated Riverside since the building’s inception, need to ensure their portfolio continually delivers value for tenants, with customer satisfaction at the forefront of their operations.

Riverside Centre's operations manager, Clint Francis, said whenever the Group undertake an upgrade the brief to consultants is usually 'best in class' which is why they chose ebm-papst EC plug fans.

While the savings couldn't be measured directly, Francis said anecdotal evidence suggests a reduction in fan power use by 15 per cent.

With the HVAC system accounting for about 60 per cent of the building’s energy consumption, any reduction in fan energy use can make a big difference to the bottom line for each tenant.

Air-movement is the heart of the air-conditioning system which is why continuity of service is an important consideration when selecting suppliers, according to Interior Engineering consultant, Andrew Prentice.

“A company that offers continued selection and technical advice in their local market should be given greater recognition because service and backup for ventilation equipment is just as important as it is for refrigeration equipment and ebm-papst certainly delivers in this regard,” he said.

As the largest supplier of EC plug fans into the Australian HVAC industry, ebm-papst delivered 4,450 units in 2015 alone and is in addition to the products installed in imported equipment.

Training sessions on EC technology were held to ensure tight timelines were met.

In the case of the Riverside upgrade, all HVAC units had to be back up and running by Monday morning, in time for office workers to return to their desks.

CLIMATE CONTROL NEWS NOVEMBER 2017

19

Innovative Products 2018

LEFT: The focus of the partnership has been energy efficiency.

BELOW: Infant food manufactured by Danone.

BOTTOM LEFT: Bledina has upgraded its refrigeration system.

Energy efficient fluids key to refrigeration upgrade BIO-BASED, SUSTAINABLE HEAT TRANSFER FLUIDS USING DUPONT TATE AND LYLE SUSTERRA PROPANEDIOL HAS REDUCED ENERGY CONSUMPTION AND ITS CARBON FOOTPRINT AT THE DANONE BLÉDINA'S BRIVE SITE IN EUROPE. THE SITE IS home to the food manufacturer's largest factory for infant food.

Climalife, Europe's specialist in cooling fluids and refrigeration, uses Susterra propanediol as the primary ingredient in their range of Greenway Neo heat-transfer fluids.

DuPont Tate and Lyle Bio Products work with leading heat transfer f luid manufacturers, such as Climalife, to leverage the company's bio-based glycol.

20

CLIMATECONTROLNEWS.COM.AU

As a leader in the food industry, Danone has a vested interest in contributing to the fight against global warming by helping to establish a carbon-free economy, according to Frédéric Lebas, director of the Danone Blédina site in Brive-la-Gaillarde, France.

"To bring health through food to as many people as possible, we are committed to achieving long-term zero net carbon through solutions cocreated with our partners," he said.

When replacing the refrigeration system on the Brive-la-Gaillarde site, Nicolas Tomaz, technical manager, for refrigeration at Blédina, had to look for an energy-efficient solution that could contribute to reducing the site's carbon footprint.

It also had to comply with ISO 14 001 (environmental management system) and 50 001 standards (energy management system).

Tomaz reached out to Climalife and quickly settled on Greenway Neo fluid for the secondary refrigerant circuit.

"Our goal was to replace R-22 with environmentally friendly and energy efficient f luids," Tomaz said. "The safety data sheet does not have any hazard warnings or symbols on the label."

Greenway Neo heat transfer f luid also is Borax-free as it has been specially formulated, leveraging a new generation of organic inhibitors.

Another key aspect of Climalife's heat transfer fluid that played a significant role in the selection was its performance.

The f luid's low viscosity profile allowed the site to opt for smaller KSB pumps, enabling significant energy savings. "A reduction in pressure loss of almost 30 per cent was impressive," explained Tomaz. "This was an excellent surprise and as a customer, we were delighted."

Susterra propanediol, the glycol used, is manufactured through a proprietary process that uses glucose from natural raw materials instead of petroleum-based feedstocks. The basic materials can be derived from renewable, farm-grown sources including corn, making the promise of carbon neutrality and independence from petroleum a real possibility.

From "cradle-to-gate", the production of DuPont Tate and Lyle Bio Products' bio-based 1,3-propanediol consumes 40 per cent less energy and reduces greenhouse gas emissions by more than 40 per cent versus petroleum-based 1,3-propanediol and propylene glycol. ✺ Visit http://www.duponttateandlyle.com

(in Japan)

Ceiling Cassette FDT Series

Precise airflow control for your maximum comfort NEW NEW

Draught Control Technology Motion Sensor

Favoured by Interior Designer and Television Presenter Tara Dennis.

1300 138 007 www.mhiaa.com.au Mitsubishi Heavy Industries Air-Conditioners Australia PTY. LTD

Innovative Products 2018

Class leading energy performance PANASONIC IS DELIVERING EXTRAORDINARY ENERGY EFFICIENCY, COMPACT DESIGN AND ULTRA-QUIET OPERATION FOR AUSTRALIA’S MODERN APARTMENT INSTALLATIONS WITH ITS NEW SINGLE FAN MINI-FSV LE2 SERIES. IMPORTANTLY, THE NEW air conditioner range offers class-leading energy saving performance at up to 4.50 EER for cooling and 5.19 COP for heating.

A high external static pressure of 35Pa ensures efficient air discharge, allowing better circulation and longer life. The units are demand-response ready, allowing energy suppliers to remotely lower device energy consumption when the community is experiencing peak electrical loads.

The company's product marketing manager for air conditioning, Jack Tey, said the LE2 Series offers the compact size, performance and flexibility needed for today's premium high rise residential developments.

“SUPER QUIET OPERATION IS A MUST FOR HIGH DENSITY LIVING.” - Product Manager, Jack Tey.

"The slim dimensions, high pressure and long pipe length of the outdoor unit ensures effective operation while still fitting unobtrusively into small spaces," he said.

"This means architects, consultants, contractors and builders have greater versatility when planning installation, and can retain the aesthetic appeal of their building design.

"In addition, super quiet operation is a must for comfortable high-density living and allows the developer to ensure compliance with any local noise regulations."

The range blends seamlessly with the latest interior design and includes both slim ducted and modern wall split units with a stylish wall-mounted controller.

Designed with Australian conditions in mind, the LE2 Series offers an anti-corrosion coating to counteract the effects of mist and salty air in coastal cities.

A wide operating range of -10C to +46C

22

CLIMATECONTROLNEWS.COM.AU

DB in cooling and -20C DB in heating meets the climate demands of Australian cities from the cold south to the dry west.

Two-pipe Single Fan Mini FSV LE2 Series Key Features • Capacity: 12.1kW, 14.0kW, 15.5kW • Dimensions: 996mm (H) x 980mm (W) x 370mm (D) • Extraordinary Energy Efficiency: EER 4.50 and COP 5.19i • Up to 35Pa external static pressure • Super quiet at 45dB (A)ii • Refrigerant chargeless up to 50m • Long piping up to 180m • Outdoor/indoor elevation: Up to 50m/40m (Up/Down) • Demand Response ready • Connect up to 9iii indoor units including models perfect for apartment applications - 200mm high slim ducted; modern wall split • Modern design controller (CZ-RTC5A) • Anti-Corrosion range in same capacity available The LE2 range is available from authorised Panasonic air conditioning distributors and dealers from November 2017. Panasonic offers a five-year labour and parts warranty. ✺ Visit www.panasonic.com.au.

Innovation slowed down in 2016 INNOVATION ACTIVITY SHOWED signs of falling in 2016, according to the latest global study from Clarivate Analytics.

The 2017 State of Innovation Report: The Relentless Desire to Advance, found that year-overyear research and patent activity across 12 key industries slowed in 2016.

Patent volume is still on an upward trajectory, with over 2.6 million published patents in 2016. This indicates that global corporations, universities, government agencies and research institutions are continuing to relentlessly contribute new solutions to address the world's biggest problems.

The eighth annual study from Clarivate Analytics, analysed global intellectual property data, including worldwide patent application activity and scientific literature publications, as a leading indicator of innovation. This year's study finds a growth in patent filings of eight per cent – down from 14 per cent last year. The State of Innovation study also tracks global scientific literature publications as a window into the scientific and scholarly research that typically precedes discovery and the protection of innovation rights. Total scientific literature production has again posted a year-over-year decline, reinforcing a potential future slowdown in innovation growth.

"While it is undeniable that innovation growth has slowed, it has not stalled out," according to Jay Nadler, CEO of Clarivate Analytics.

According to the Information Technology and Innovation Foundation (ITIF), innovation drives economic growth. Research and development (R&D) activities allow scientists and researchers to develop new knowledge, techniques and technologies that enable people to produce more.

An increase in productivity fuels economic growth – a one per cent increase in R&D spending grows the economy by 0.61 per cent. ✺

Drama-free workdays

The Haier air conditioning range is dependable, easy to install, and designed for Aussie conditions. This means fewer hassles for you and greater peace of mind for both you and your customers.

Haier is the world’s #1 for connected air conditioners.

24/7 Customer Care: 1300 729 948 Source Euromonitor International Limited. Claim issued on 1 Feb 2017. Haier is the number one brand of connected air conditioner (including smart air conditioner) in the world, with a market share of 23.6% in terms of volume sales in 2016.

Innovative Products for 2018

Built to impress with slim and versatile design TOSHIBA'S NEW SUPER SLIM DUCTED (SSD) PROVIDES SOLUTIONS TO A VARIETY OF APPLICATION CHALLENGES FACING TODAY'S RESIDENTIAL AND APARTMENT STYLE LIVING, INCLUDING COMMERCIAL, HOTEL AND AGED CARE INSTALLATIONS. THE SSD'S BUILT in features and control logic is a perfect fit with building management systems and Toshiba's network of VRF products boasting an impressive line-up of 12 capacities from 2.2kW up to 8.0kW. The SSD's low profile of only 210mm and 450mm depth makes bulkhead, and installations above wardrobe voids, a practical solution in today's space thirsty living areas.

With installation design ease and user comfort in mind, the SSD comes with its own built-in DC driven drain pump and optional left/right drain discharge ports.

The "Z-shaped" heat exchanger arrangement

and DC dynamo-operated centrifugal fan, air intake and discharge can be interchanged to either rear or bottom configuration, all combining to produce quieter operation for enhanced user comfort and installation simplicity.

Complementing the SSD is the new Single Fan MiNi VRF outdoor unit small in size and light in weight, making it ideal for the booming apartment developments right around the country.

This is where the Toshiba Single Fan MiNi VRF outdoor unit comes to the rescue.

Inspiration for this product was sourced from the end consumer's desire for an apartment that has style and plenty of balcony room. Of course, Toshiba Air Conditioning's technology is always on show with the product connecting up to five indoor units and including the super slim ducted Toshiba's remarkable twin rotary inverter compressor with generous energy efficiency delivers stable

ABOVE: Toshiba's new Super Slim Ducted (SSD) solution addresses a variety of application challenges for apartment style living.

performance with minimal friction making this an ideal team for the ultimate in design flexibility and sound-sensitive applications.

There are four models in the range, with capacity covering 8, 11.2, 14.0 and 15.5kW. All outdoor units have a space saving maximum height of only 900/910 per unit, which makes them ideal to place on a balcony.

The compact dimensions of the Single Fan Mini VRF also makes it a dream for transport and handling to site. As with all Toshiba Air Conditioning products, they are easy to install, feature low maintenance requirements and boast a five-year warranty, for year-round satisfaction and peace of mind. ✺ Visit www.toshiba-aircon.com.au.

AI to transform engineering services

AI will lead to organisational restructuring.

24

CLIMATECONTROLNEWS.COM.AU

A NEW REPORT has identified a number of industries, including engineering, that are set to be transformed by Artificial intelligence (AI).

Prepared by global HR think-tank, Reventure, the report said AI will cause organisational restructuring among firms in a range of professional services. The Industry Insights report finds organisations in the legal, accounting, management and engineering services are just some of the sectors that will be impacted by increased AI presence. Lead researcher at Reventure, Dr Lindsay McMillan, said AI will start by replacing entry level work in the professional services. However, millennials will not be the only ones affected. "The current pyramid structure of organisations is likely to face disruption because AI will begin taking over the repetitive,

mundane tasks from everyone's job," he said.

"There will also be changes to what organisations in the professional services look for in candidates and technological aptitude will be high on that list."

The report defines professional services as crossing many subcategories, including building and construction (e.g., architects, town planners, engineering consultants) and business (e.g., recruitment consultants, human resource management consultants). Dr McMillan said despite the inevitable technological changes, purpose and meaning remained the most pressing issue for workplaces. "It is a great detriment for both organisation and employee if a worker thinks their job has no purpose or meaning, and it is up to business leaders to address the issue.” ✺

At your service.

We all know that residential ducted systems can be challenging to service, with large parts of the system installed in places like the roof or outside the house.

Wouldn’t it be great if servicing residential air conditioners was made better?

We think so. That’s why our QUE product is the only control system on the market with a dedicated dashboard feature, which makes diagnosing potential problem areas a breeze.

Accessed via the QUE Touch master controller, the dashboard has an easy to read interface that allows you to view the status of the air conditioning system, providing easy access to information like fan speed, coil temperature, fan mode, superheat, gas pressures, compressor run/demand, and event history.

By having this information at your fingertips, QUE allows you to be more efficient with your time on-site.

And not only does it make your job easier, it makes it more comfortable too, with all of this information viewable from inside the house.

Just another way that our revolutionary QUE control platform delivers control without compromise.

Innovative Products for 2018

Carel celebration CAREL’S HEEZ, DESIGNED as top-efficiency and energy-saving solution for the control and management of beverage coolers, has been recognised as the best environmental sustainability product at the 2017 World Beverage Innovation Awards.

The 2017 World Beverage Innovation Awards celebrate excellence and innovation across every category of the global beverage industry recognising the most innovative products and technologies on the market.

"The fact that Heez won this award emphasises Carel's excellent reputation as long-standing company driver of innovation within the industry and validates our efforts and our approach towards a more responsible and sustainable industry," Alessandro Greggio, Carel's group head of refrigeration and retail, said. ✺ BELOW: Carel’s award winning Heez cooler was recognised for environmental sustainability.

Co-location facility utilises indirect free cooling system STULZ AUSTRALIA AND NEXTDC HAVE LAUNCHED THE COUNTRY'S FIRST AWARD WINNING CO-LOCATION FACILITY COOLED BY A DFC INDIRECT FREE COOLING SYSTEM. STULZ AUSTRALIA IS continuing its partnership with data centre company NEXTDC to launch the facility which uses a DFC indirect free cooling system, leading the charge in energy efficiency.

Located at NEXTDC's B2 Brisbane data centre, the Stulz CyberAir DFC uses a traditional floor mounted computer room complete with specially designed air-conditioning equipment that uses favourable ambient conditions to provide cooling.

The inherent design means the centre does not require energy-intensive refrigeration compressors, and is never impacted by external humidity.

B2 is the first data centre in Australia to receive Tier IV Certification of Constructed Facility (TCCF) from Uptime Institute, the world's leading independent data centre advisory and certification organisation. The data centre is built to withstand individual equipment failures, distribution path interruptions from an unexpected event or planned work activity while maintaining operations. Stulz Australia managing director, John Jakovcevic, said the accreditation confirms the exceptional resilience of the facility's critical infrastructure for NEXTDC customers. "NEXTDC was looking for a solution that allowed quick deployment, offered low initial capital investment, while providing maximum energy efficiency. Stulz's CyberAir DFC (indirect

26

CLIMATECONTROLNEWS.COM.AU

free cooling system) fit the bill," he said. "This system does not require a large and expensive central chiller plant as cooling is performed by a combination of a free cooling economy cycle using only fans and pumps, combined with water cooled efficient direct expansion (DX) for summer trim cooling. With the higher design return air temperatures, free cooling can be deployed even in Brisbane to achieve great efficiency results over the year." Stulz Australia has worked with NEXTDC since the outset of their national data centre rollout back in 2010. They have already worked on data centres B1, S1, M1, C1 and P1, and work will commence on the company's new S2 Sydney facility shortly. Head of engineering and design at NEXTDC, Jeff Van Zetten, said the company needed a modular, flexible and space efficient design, which was highly energy efficient.

He said the solution is using interconnected, closed-loop cooling towers to provide unparalleled Uptime Institute Tier IV fault-tolerant resilience, never before achieved in Australia.

"The capex for B2 is even less than that for our Tier III facilities in Perth, Melbourne and Sydney," Van Zetten said. "Onsite load test results have indicated B2 will operate at a NABERS five-star level of energy efficiency once it approaches its design load, the highest rating yet achieved in Australia." ✺

Innovative Products 2018

UTC committed to billion dollar R&D budget IN 2016, UNITED Technologies spent $3.7 billion on company and customer-funded research and development, supporting a variety of innovative new aerospace and building systems products including heating, cooling and refrigeration systems.

Now that's a lot of "cool" hard cash, according to Carrier Australia managing director, John Cherry.

And this commitment to innovation is set to continue in 2018.

He said Carrier continues to develop new solutions and push the boundaries of smart technology.

"Beyond keeping people cool and comfortable, Carrier solutions are among the most energy-efficient available today," Cherry said.

"Through persistence, world-class engineering and a relentless commitment to innovation, Carrier is cooler than ever and excited to deliver leading solutions to keep people in Australia comfortable well into the future."

Carrier’s air cooled AquaForce screw chiller.

Carrier Australia Pty Ltd is a part of Carrier, a world leader in high-technology heating, air-conditioning and refrigeration solutions, and part of UTC Climate, Controls and Security, a unit of United Technologies Corporation.

Carrier has been active in Australia since 1932 with landmark installations including Sydney's famous Art Deco-style City Mutual Building.

Some 80 years ago, Carrier installed the first air-conditioning and ventilation equipment to service the building.

Globally, since 2000, Carrier products have avoided more than 225 million metric tonnes of carbon dioxide through advancements in energy efficiency – the equivalent of removing more

ECOPRESS PRESSURISATION SYSTEM WITH AUTOMATIC WATER MAKE-UP AND DEAERATION The pump-controlled Duraflex EcoPress Pressurisation System offers a superior means of pressure monitoring and control for heating and cooling systems.

Its four main functions are: • to keep the system pressure within very restricted limits, • to deaerate the content water, • to make up water automatically and • to provide outputs to BMS systems.

EcoPress helps maintain the system pressure within 50kPa in mission critical water-based heating and cooling systems such as those servicing Data Centres and Hospitals.

than 47 million passenger vehicles from the road for one year.

Just recently in Australia, Sherry said the company launched the next generation AquaForce screw chiller and innovative AquaEdge 19DV centrifugal chiller with a low global warming potential refrigerant.

"These products demonstrate Carrier's ongoing commitment to sustainability leadership through the development of environmentallyresponsible solutions,“ he added. ✺

CALL US FOR A FREE HEATING UPGRADE ASSESSMENT & QUOTE

AD?

For a brief introduction to how EcoPress protects your system, watch the How It Works video animation via the QR Code below.

SCAN FOR VIDEO

To request Case Studies, please email sales@automaticheating.com.au

1800 337 959 automaticheating.com.au

CLIMATE CONTROL NEWS NOVEMBER 2017

27

Innovative Products 2018

Dream year for good design wizardry IN WHAT IS shaping up to be a dream year of award wins, the newly released Climate Wizard CW-P15 has been announced as the silver award winner in the Product Design - Commercial and Industry categories in both the Melbourne and Sydney Design Awards.

The latest recognition comes after the CWP15 was recently announced as winner in this year's Good Design Awards, as well as claiming victory in the New Product Innovation category in the Australian Business Awards 2017.

Seeley International founder and executive chair, Frank Seeley, said the string of recent accolades underlined the significant innovative difference offered by the revolutionary indirect evaporative air conditioner.

"The CW-P15 builds on the strong reputation of the multi-award winning Climate Wizard range,

and its ability to cool using 100 per cent fresh air. It achieves this with no added moisture by using a hyper-efficient counter-flow heat exchanger and in doing so, challenges all of the assumptions that people make when they think of an evaporative cooler," he said.

"The extraordinary CW-P15 transforms the performance of traditional evaporative air conditioning, and a growing number of savvy commercial and industrial consumers are opting to invest and take advantage of the 80 per cent energy savings on offer compared to refrigerated systems performing similar cooling functions.

"CW-P15 offers air conditioning cooling comfort which can achieve up to equivalence, or even superior performance to, conventional refrigerated air conditioning - whether in a retrofit, or new installation."

LEFT: The design features a UV-resistant lightweight polymer corrosion-free casing.

A number of exceptionally clever benefits have been integrated into the design, including a UVresistant lightweight polymer corrosion-free casing which better blends with existing roofs or building designs.

CW-P15 also takes advantage of environmentally friendly refrigerant R-718 (water) to achieve exceptional cooling at exceptionally high electrical efficencies, with no ozone depleting gases or chemicals employed in its operation.

Other key features include: • A new compact modular design which allows for easy side-by-side, rooftop installation • A twin fan design means CW-P15 features separate exhaust and supply channels • New axial propeller fans, with the sickle blade/ air-foil design ensuring added efficiency • Integrated air filtration systems. ✺

Don’t melt. Replace your old APAC unit with Specialized air conditioning.

Right now, roof top units everywhere are reaching their “use by” dates. But you can replace them quickly and easily with an exceptionally efficient solution from Specialized Engineering. In fact, Specialized systems are a perfect replacement for APAC units as they use exactly the same footprint, duct work, mains power and controls, so there are no expensive modification costs.

Find out more at specializedengineering.com.au

28

CLIMATECONTROLNEWS.COM.AU

Hyperflex™ High Efficiency Air Cooled Packaged Units on R410A 012 to 095kW

Innovative Products 2018

Honeywell restructures bigger focus on HVAC HONEYWELL HAS ANNOUNCED major changes to its corporate structure with a stronger focus on HVAC. The company is planning to spin-off parts of its business in order to create two new publiclytraded companies by the end of 2018.

After a full portfolio review, Honeywell decided to spin off its home and ADI global distribution unit, which pulls in $4.5 billion in annual revenues, and its transportation systems unit, which has about $3 billion in revenue.

The new, separate home business will focus on heating, ventilation and air-conditioning, and the distribution of security and fire protection products.

Honeywell president and CEO, Darius Adamczyk, said that the new companies will be "better positioned to maximise share-owner value

through focused strategic decision making and capital allocation tailored for their end markets".

Honeywell also announced that it would be keeping its aerospace technology business.

Effective immediately, Gary Michel will serve as president and CEO of Honeywell's Home and Building Technologies (HBT) strategic business group. Michel will report to Adamczyk and serve as a company officer. Michel succeeds Terrence Hahn, who will move to a leadership role reporting to Adamczyk and will help prepare the Homes and ADI businesses for the spin.

Michel joins Honeywell from Ingersoll-Rand Company, where he has held a series of large leadership roles over the past 32 years. Most recently, he served as senior vice president and president, Residential HVAC and Supply.

Honeywell Australia located in Sydney's North West.

Adamczyk said Michel has proven himself to be an innovative and energetic leader with a deep understanding of his customers and end markets.

In Australia, Honeywell has been delivering solutions to business, industry and consumers since 1962. Today, Honeywell employs around 2,000 people in more than 30 offices across the country and has a presence in every state and territory. âœş

AD?

CLIMATE CONTROL NEWS  NOVEMBER 2017

29

Compressors, Condensers & Evaporators

Compressor checklist to achieve energy savings

THIS FEATURE PROVIDES AN OVERVIEW OF HOW TO UNDERTAKE A SCREW COMPRESSOR DEGRADATION CHECK WHICH CAN GENERATE PLANT ENERGY SAVINGS OF UP TO 15 PER CENT.

30

CLIMATECONTROLNEWS.COM.AU

V

ARIOUS PLANT PARAMETERS are measured to determine the degree of compressor degradation and support a business case for replacing compressors.

The benefits include a reduction in overall plant operating and maintenance costs, as well as significant energy savings.

Implementation involves installing a gas flow meter on the plant suction line.

Industrial refrigeration plants either have screw compressors or reciprocating compressors. Generally, screw compressors have replaced reciprocating compressors due to lower maintenance costs and minimal requirement for regular refurbishment.

However, unlike reciprocating compressors, there is no simple compressor test that can be conducted to determine the condition of a screw compressor.

Compressors, Condensers & Evaporators

RIGHT: Unlike reciprocating compressors, screw compressors do not regain full efficiency after a rebuild.

This is because the tip clearances, the amount of oil, viscosity of oil and tip speed are all factors contributing to the sealing of compressed space within a screw compressor.

The efficiency of a screw compressor can be compromised by damage resulting from numerous factors including poor maintenance, excessive bearing wear and capacity slide damage and erosion.

The energy efficiency of a screw compressor depends on the integrity of a fine edge on the tip of the compressor rotors, and the clearance between this edge and the compressor bore.

While the reduction in efficiency resulting from this damage is not always readily identifiable, it can explain differences in performance results of compressors.

“THE ENERGY EFFICIENCY OF A SCREW COMPRESSOR DEPENDS ON THE INTEGRITY OF A FINE EDGE ON THE TIP OF THE COMPRESSOR ROTORS.”

CASE STUDY

SAVINGS The monitoring of compressor wear provides valuable information for the plant owner, and can help to determine when to replace a compressor so a required payback can be achieved or when to change compressor operating sequences to allow minimum operation of the worn compressor.

Also, system reliability will increase and the risk of compressor bearing failures will be reduced.

Achievable annual savings due to compressor replacement depend on the level of compressor wear, the make and model of the compressor, and operating hours and load factor of the compressor.

Given the scope of this technology, it is not possible to make a general estimate of savings achievable, costs associated, nor the payback period for such projects.

IMPLEMENTATION The most reliable and cost-effective way to identify the existence as well as the level of wear on a compressor (as a compression test is not possible for a screw compressor) is to install a mass flowmeter on the common suction line of the refrigeration plant.

The total mass f low on the suction line can be continuously monitored with the measured valve trended and converted into actual plant load.

This can be compared to a "theoretical" compressor capacity based on manufacturer's technical data, so the actual level of compressor wear can be quantified.

Unlike reciprocating compressors, screw compressors do not regain full efficiency after a rebuild. Only a complete compressor block replacement (new compressor) will reinstate original efficiency levels.

However, due to the considerably high capital cost involved in the compressor replacement, firm evidence of compressor wear is required before plant owners will opt for a full rebuild.

You need to know the make and model of the screw compressor, speed of the compressor motor if variable speed drives are available, suction line diameter and pipe thickness.

To monitor wear on a screw compressor, a suitable mass f lowmeter will need to be installed on the common suction line of the plant.

The flowmeter needs to be carefully selected so it is not only able to detect the expected variation of the mass flow but also minimise the pressure loss through the device.

You will also need discharge and suction pressure transmitters, screw compressor slide valve potentiometers connected to the main plant controller, sufficient control system hardware and software capability to convert mass flow into plant load. ✺ These tips were sourced from the "i am your industrial refrigeration guide" which is published by the NSW Office of Environment and Heritage and is available at: http://www.environment.nsw.gov.au/ resources/business/industrial-refrigerationguide-170149.pdf.

Food manufacturer, Simplot Australia, implemented screw compressor degradation testing to verify the return on investment of a compressor replacement project.

This resulted in 950 megawatt hours of electricity savings a year with a payback of less than four years.

Simplot Australia operates a potato processing plant in Tasmania and has approximately 190 equivalent full-time employees.

Simplot sources its potatoes from over 300 local growers. Over 250,000 tonnes of potato are processed each year to generate about 150,000 tonnes of frozen French fries.

The site contains five independent refrigeration plant rooms. Total electricity consumption by the refrigeration systems is approximately 11 gigawatt hours a year.

One of the plant rooms houses four lowstage and four high-stage screw compressors serving several freezing tunnels.

Due to the age of the compressors, Simplot speculated that several compressors might be severely degraded and require replacement. However, there was no evidence to prove a replacement would yield a good return on investment.

A compressor degradation check was implemented on all eight compressors by taking detailed measurements.

A low-stage compressor and a highstage compressor were identified as having the highest loss in cooling capacity due to wear. The results of this testing gave Simplot the confidence to go ahead and replace the two compressors.

Due to the replacement, both plant operating and maintenance costs have reduced. The total cost saving was approximately $61,000 a year, compared to a total project cost of $240,000.

ABOVE: Food manufacturer, Simplot Australia.

CLIMATE CONTROL NEWS NOVEMBER 2017

31

Compressors, Condensers & Evaporators

Enthalpy ready for 2018 release

Plug and play package for contractors THE BUFFALO TRIDENT PS SERIES EVAPORATOR IS SUPPLIED FACTORY-FITTED WITH EVD-ICE SUPERHEAT CONTROL, PROVIDING CONTRACTORS WITH A PLUG AND PLAY PACKAGE. IT IS AN easy and cost efficient solution that is fast becoming a go-to product for those seeking a simple, reliable evaporator.

On-site costs are reduced by factory fitting the EEV driver, Ultracap and pre-wiring to all components including fans.

Plus, in many installations, a liquid line solenoid is no longer required as the EVD-ice will regulate the EEV with an on/off signal from the room temperature control.

ABOVE: The PS Series Evaporator with EVD-ice can reduce on-site costs.

In the event of a power failure, the Ultracap will discharge power to the EEV coil and drive the valve closed, preventing f loodback to the refrigeration plant.

Commissioning costs are also reduced with the factory programmed control (adjustment can be made on site), and the proven accuracy and performance of the EVD-ice provides a reduction in pull down time for room temperature and product, resulting in energy savings for the end user. ✺ Visit www.bitzer.com.au.

Intelligent engineering with local assembly THE BUFFALO TRIDENT engineering team has dived into the challenge of refining its new BDC Series condenser to exceed market expectations.

The team has engineered a product that neatly addresses the specifications of some of the country's biggest supermarket players, and its modular format allows for endless adaptation to different environments and capacity requirements.

ABOVE: The new BDC Series condenser has been refined even further to meet different capacity requirements.

32

CLIMATECONTROLNEWS.COM.AU

The BDC has been put through its paces, with each component scrutinised both individually and as a whole unit so that the maximum possible efficiency can be achieved (contact Bitzer for performance data including the Eurovent Certification).

Recent improvements in production techniques mean the engineering team have taken advantage of smaller tube designs and tube with refined internal geometries, meaning a smaller coil can offer the same performance at a lower footprint.

Features such as quiet and efficient 910mm EC fans, increased coil surface area and reduced tube sizes provide a reduction in refrigerant charge and reduce sound levels – keeping end users happy.

With a wide range of models from single fan to 10-fan units, the modular configuration makes the BDC a flexible choice for a host of different applications. ✺

AIREFRIG AUSTRALIA IS set to release the latest in their TD range of Enthalpy Condensing Units.

The 25HP and 30HP units have been developed in Australia and are in final stages prior to being released to the market in January 2018.

The 25HP and 30HP TD Series are fitted standard with EBM EC fans and feature compressor capacity control and digital displays of unit suction and discharge pressures. All managed via a Carel control panel mount universal controller. A high efficiency coalescent oil separator is also new to the 25HP and 30HP units and comes as standard.

The Enthalpy TD Series also maintain the standard features from Enthalpy; Bitzer Ecoline semi-hermetic compressors, ebm papst fans, Saginomiya fan speed and dual pressure controls, contactors and electronic overload protectors, suction accumulator, oil separator, liquid receiver, liquid line drier and sight glass assemblies. All units are pre-wired to electrical box, weatherproof white powder coated casing and supercoat condenser treatment (5000-hour salt spray test).

The complete range of Enthalpy TD condensing units are all rated up to 43 ambient for R134A, R404A/R507 as well as the low GWP refrigerants R449A (XP40) and R513A (XP10). ✺ For further details on product release and complete technical information, contact your local Airefrig branch on 1800 671 500 or visit www.airefrig.com.au.

ABOVE: Latest release from the TD range of Enthalpy condensing units.

PAC Customised remote air cooled condensers The Fan Coil Sales High Performance Air Cooled Condensers range is locally manufactured in Australia to offer fully customisable solutions and ongoing support. Designed with strength and reliability for superior performance, all units are made with galvanised steel casings highly resistant to harsh climatic conditions. Each standard condenser unit is fully equipped with aluminium finned copper tube condensing coils, and twospeed propeller fans directly driven by 3-phase motors. For convenience, all motors are wired in a lockable terminal box located on the outside of the cabinet.

Upgradable options – Copper finned coils – Stainless steel cases – Powder coat enamel finish – Protective fin coatings on coils

– Head pressure controllers – temperature or pressure activated – Multiple circuits designed to suit the application – Integral sub cooling sections – selected to suit application

Fancoil.com.au | (02) 8774 1480 | Info@fancoil.com.au

Compressors, Condensers & Evaporators

HVAC growth contributes to demand for DC motors THE GLOBAL ELECTRIC DC MOTORS MARKET IS EXPECTED TO REACH $43.97 BILLION BY 2025 WITH HVAC CONTRIBUTING TO THIS GROWTH, ACCORDING TO A NEW REPORT BY GRAND VIEW RESEARCH. THESE MOTORS ARE extensively used in compressors, machine tools, electric cars and domestic appliances, among others.

Major advantages, such as lesser rotor heat and higher peak efficiency as compared to other motors, make them suitable for applications in a variety of fields.

Moreover, these high-efficiency motors are expected to grow in popularity due to their long operating life, low maintenance and low energy consumption.

Global demand for DC motor-driven equipment is being driven by large-scale adoption in forklift chemical injection pumps and HVAC applications.

The market is also driven by the rising manufacturing and purchasing activities in the electric vehicle industry.

DC motors are used in HVAC equipment for the movement of air from one place to another.

The rising rate of urbanisation and improved standard of living are likely to lead to the largescale implementation of HVAC systems, thereby driving demand globally.

Further key findings from the report suggest the electric DC motors market is growing at a CAGR of 6.1 per cent over the forecast period.

The brushless segment accounted for a major share of the market in 2016 owing to factors such as thermal resistance, low maintenance and low operating temperatures.

The Asia Pacific region is anticipated to witness growth at a CAGR exceeding five per cent over the forecast period, owing to increasing industrialisation in the developing economies of China, India and Indonesia.

Key players such as Ametek Inc., Franklin Electric Co., Asmo Co. Ltd. and ABB Ltd. dominated the market in 2016. ✺

Ecoline sets a new benchmark WITH THE NEW six-cylinder Ecoline+ reciprocating compressors for transcritical CO2 applications, Bitzer is setting a new benchmark in the use of CO2 as a futurecompliant refrigerant.

The Ecoline+ features a line-start permanent-magnet motor (LSPM), which can be operated directly in networks with 50 or 60 Hertz.

Incorporating permanent magnets has made it possible to significantly increase motor efficiency in full and part-load operation.

This technology has been undergoing testing at Bitzer and in selected systems out in the field for more than five years.

Thanks to the intuitive Bitzer Electronics Service Tool (BEST) software as well as the monitoring sensors and actuators, which are prewired and preconfigured in the Bitzer factory, the compressors are also very easy to configure and service. ✺ Visit www.bitzer.com.au.

TOP: Ecoline compressors feature a line-start permanent-magnet motor (LPSM).

IQ module a smart choice

ABOVE: The module is easy and inexpensive to integrate into a whole host of system configurations.

34

CLIMATECONTROLNEWS.COM.AU

THE INTELLIGENT OPERATING concept of the CM-RC-01 IQ module, which comes as standard with the Ecoline+, also ensures optimal efficiency for the oil supply, the oil heater and the new CRII capacity control, which is specially developed for CO2 applications.

The interplay between CRII and CM-RC-01 allows the capacity to be adjusted virtually infinitely between 10 and 100 per cent.

The CM-RC-01 IQ module makes it very easy and inexpensive to integrate the Ecoline+ reciprocating compressor into a whole host of system configurations.

The IQ module not only improves protective measures and options for monitoring compressors, but also expands their range of applications and thus offers users greater flexibility.

This in turn makes it easier, for instance, to compensate for differences between summer and winter operation. The new capacity control has increased overall efficiency, as the CRII enables a more stable and higher suction pressure. ✺ Visit www.bitzer.com.au.

Compressors, Condensers & Evaporators

Slim pack condensing units now available at Airefrig THE NEW DANFOSS Optyma Slim Pack Condensing Unit range is now exclusively available through the Airefrig Australia branch network.

The Optyma Slim Pack are compact, lightweight condensing units with a maximum weight of 87kg – the lightest solution in the market.

The weatherproof housing meets outdoor application requirements and are specifically designed for high ambient operations.

The range is available on R134A and R404A/ R507 and rated up to 46 degree ambient.

Fitted with efficient and quiet Danfoss compressors and featuring a micro channel heat exchanger, the MCHE is easy to clean, saves up to 35 per cent refrigerant charge and provides significant energy savings.

With quick connections of suction and liquid lines and service ports outside, Optyma Slim Pack is among the fastest and easiest to install.

Standard features also include compressor oil sight glass, service shut off valves, fan speed controller, dual pressure control, drier and sight glass, liquid receiver and pre-wired Schneider Electric isolator, contactor and terminal strip.

The Optyma Slim Pack Condensing Units represent the best value for money on the market for the reliability that Danfoss brings.

Units are now available and in stock in WA, with availability to the eastern states to follow by the end of the year. For further information and to confirm availability for your area, please contact your nearest Airefrig branch on 1800 671 500 or email sales@airefrig.com.au. ✺

ABOVE: Optima Slim Pack unit.

Like a 24/7 on-site service technician?

AND SAVE MONEY ON EXPENSIVE GAS LEAKAGE & PRODUCT LOSS SAVE MONEY AND STAY IN CONTROL WITH METIS MONITORING

Food manufacturers, distributors and retailers who own refrigeration systems: Do you have to rely on external contractors to keep your refrigeration systems running?

Metis Monitoring can help you regain control!

This easy to install real time monitoring system allows you to be in the know 24/7. Plus, its predictive diagnostic capabilities will tell you when a fault will occur and what action is needed. And, best of all, Metis Monitoring is compatible with any refrigeration system, at one very affordable monthly fee.

With a Metis Monitoring system you won’t be left in the dark Full visibility of systems via remote 24/7 Monitoring.

Predictive diagnostic and learning-based data gathering. n Reduce your exposure to unnecessary maintenance costs. n Retrofit any site for full monitoring of vital indicators. n Save money on product loss and gas leakage. n n

n T: +61 2 8850 3252 n WWW.METISMONITORING.COM.AU CLIMATE CONTROL NEWS NOVEMBER 2017

35

Compressors, Condensers & Evaporators

Compressors designed for specialist applications GEA SHOWCASED EQUIPMENT and services from gas compression solutions to centrifugal separation technology right through to refrigeration equipment at the SPE Offshore event in the UK last month.

The company has an extensive range of centrifuges for a range of specialist applications.

Powerful, high-speed centrifuges, tailor-made process cooling, tank/storage cooling, gas compression, small scale LNG, ATEX and API compressors and highly efficient vacuum technology were on show.

GEA refrigeration and compression solutions deliver precision and f lexibility across a range of technical specifications, including compressor technology, refrigerants, refrigeration temperatures, and power capacity via three different technologies: oil

ABOVE: This compressor has an extremely long life span.

RIGHT: The HG model series consists of state-of-the-art suction gascooled technology.

injected screw compressor packages, reciprocating compressor packages (horizontally opposed), centrifugal compressor packages (integrally geared).

GEA starts from bare compressors to complete skid mounted packages, process design, process simulation, detailed engineering, documentation and drawings along with process guarantee and ends with commissioning and start-up activities.

GEA supports customers throughout the entire lifecycle of their installed systems and components.

GEA's UK head of flow components, compression and homogenisation sales, Paul Leeman, said the company's OneGEA philosophy and structure is now in place.

"We want to show our existing and new customers everything that GEA can offer under one roof," he said. This includes the Grasso LT series which comes in 16 sizes and covers a swept volume from 805 to 11,467 m3/h (at 2,940 rpm).

Moreover, the HG model series consists of stateof-the-art classical suction gas-cooled compressor technology. ✺

INNOVATIVE PRODUCTS FOR TEMPORARY AIR CONDITIONING

Introducing our BIG CB17000 (17.5kW) Spot Cooler

• Super Quiet Centrifugal Condenser Fan • Fits Through Standard Doors • Ready for Hire or Sale

CB17000 (17.5kW)

CB6600 (7.3kW)

1300 885 188 E. sales@coolbreeze.net.au 36

CLIMATECONTROLNEWS.COM.AU

//

24/7 SERVICE

W. coolbreeze.net.au

PAC 22 (6.5kW)

Movin Cool 15SF (4.5kW)

FAST DELIVERY AND INSTALLATION AVAILABLE NATIONALLY: MELBOURNE // SYDNEY // BRISBANE ADELAIDE // PERTH // NEWCASTLE CANBERRA // NTH QUEENSLAND

Compressors, Condensers & Evaporators

Inside the new world of connected efficiency UNIT CONTROLLERS (C.PCO), inverters for BLDC compressors, electronic expansion valves, temperature and pressure sensors and user interfaces for DC chiller and C.R.A.C. applications were on show at the Carel stand at Febrava in Brazil last month.

Among the solutions on show at Febrava was a working simulator of Heos Sistema, a highefficiency solution for the management of refrigerated cases for the food retail industry.

“THIS SOLUTION MANAGES ALL APPLICATIONS THAT USE CO2.”

Carel Heos Sistema, featuring remote showcases fitted with variable-speed BLDC compressors cooled by a water loop, can be used to replace the classic architecture of a supermarket refrigeration system. Carel also presented its

Unit 4, Gateway Boulevard, Dandenong Victoria 3175 Australia

completely new solution for the control and management of beverage coolers, Heez, with ample space dedicated to its pRack solution.

This solution manages all applications that use CO2 as the primary or secondary refrigerant.

This is a technologically-advanced solution in which system complexity – above all pressure, climatic conditions and synchronisation between components – is completely managed and optimised by the control system. Among the energy savings solutions for air humidification, the Carel booth featured the humiSonic version for direct room humidification (humiSonic direct), and the humiFog direct, the high pressure atomiser dedicated to ambient adiabatic humidification. Carel also participated in Drinktec 2017 where the company showcased working beverage coolers equipped with Heez.

Carel group manager, Gian Lombello, said the company's new focus is on "Connected Efficiency", replacing the previous "High Efficiency Solutions" branding. ✺

T: +61 3 9791 9200 F: +61 3 9791 9600 E: sales@coilsaust.com.au

ABOVE: Carel’s booth and product display at Drinktec 2017.

Unit 4, Gateway Boulevard, Dandenong Victoria 3175 Australia

T: +61 3 9791 9200 F: +61 3 9791 9600 E: sales@coilsaust.com.au

CLIMATE CONTROL NEWS NOVEMBER 2017

37

Compressors, Condensers & Evaporators

Compliant and efficient EMERSON HAS LAUNCHED FRACTIONAL HORSEPOWER LOWTEMPERATURE COPELAND SCROLL COMPRESSORS THAT UTILISE LIQUID-INJECTION TECHNOLOGY TO COOL DISCHARGE TEMPERATURES AND REDUCE COMPRESSOR STRESS WHILE ALSO MEETING UPCOMING FEDERAL REGULATORY REQUIREMENTS. THE ENVIRONMENTAL PROTECTION Agency (EPA) will be phasing out the use of R404A in new remote condensing units for walk-in coolers and freezers (WICF) in 2018.

Additionally, the Department of Energy (DOE) has proposed the enforcement of its new WICF efficiency mandate in 2020, as measured by the annual walk-in efficiency (AWEF) standard.

The new Copeland Scroll ZF*KA compressor line simultaneously addresses the need for compatibility with new refrigerants, tougher energy standards and highly reliable, smallercapacity systems.

Emerson's food service director of market-

ing, Allen Wicher, said in addition to achieving compliance with DOE and EPA requirements in low temperatures, the new ZF*KA fractional horsepower compressors are rated for use with new refrigerant alternatives R448A/449A and existing lower-GWP HFCs such as R-407A. "Compared to its hermetic reciprocating counterparts, Copeland Scroll is also simpler for the OEM to incorporate into new designs without additional engineering, development and additional component costs," he said.

The ZF*KA compressors are designed for walk-in freezers relying on outdoor condensing units that will require compressors that

ABOVE: The new ZF*KA compressors use liquid injection technology for more reliable performance.

can mitigate the higher discharge temperatures produced when using new refrigerant alternatives in low-temperature applications.

The liquid injection technology allows the compressor to cool the discharge temperature while also delivering high efficiencies and reliable performance. ✺

Global cooling panel to limit HFC production DANFOSS HAS BEEN appointed a member of the new global Cooling for All panel, an initiative announced last month during the UN General Assembly.

The aim of the panel is to increase access to affordable and sustainable cooling solutions throughout the world.

The UN Economic Commission for Europe has estimated that by 2050, the world's population will reach about 9 billion, 70 per cent of whom will live in cities, which equates to adding 235 cities the size of Paris. This, combined with rising global temperatures, will result in a boom in demand for cooling devices such as air conditioners and refrigerators and a corresponding surge in energy demand, which will create additional impacts on our climate.

Currently, air conditioning and refrigeration cause 10 per cent of global CO2 emissions,

which is three times the total emissions attributed to aviation and shipping, and still an estimated one billion people lack access to cooling.

The initiative was launched by Sustainable Energy for All (SEforALL) with Danfoss represented by Jürgen Fischer, president of Danfoss Cooling.

"Danfoss looks forward to contributing our deep knowledge in this field and helping speed up implementation of energy-efficient and clean solutions," he said.

Rachel Kyte, CEO of SEforALL and Special Representative of the UN Secretary-General for SEforALL, will act as secretariat for the Global Panel.

"As temperatures soar, cooling demands risk creating a significant increase in energy demand, which, if not managed through superefficient technologies or clean sources, will

LEFT TO RIGHT: Jürgen Fischer, president of Danfoss Cooling; John Galyen, president of Danfoss North America; Rachel Kyte, UN Representative and CEO of SEforALL.

38

CLIMATECONTROLNEWS.COM.AU

cause further climate change impacts and a rise in emissions," she said. "The work of the Global Panel will, therefore, be critical to develop the evidence we need to understand the challenges and opportunities of providing cooling access for all."

Together, the Cooling for All panel will develop a comprehensive report which outlines recommendations and evidence for how to accelerate the uptake of solutions that create sustainable cooling access around the world.

The report is expected to be published in 2018.

The panel's work will, for the first time, create a direct intersect between three international agreements: the Paris Climate Agreement, the Sustainable Development Goals, and the Montreal Protocol's Kigali Amendment with one of the key goals of the amendment being to limit consumption and production of hydrofluorocarbons (HFCs).

The president of Danfoss North America, John Galyen, said the company continues to invest in cooling technologies.

"We invest in technologies that improve the efficiency levels of cooling technologies through our Application Development Centres in order to combat rising energy costs and CO2 emissions," he said. ✺

THE CYCLING CLASSIC FOR SA

EARLY BIRD OFFER MAXI $180 CHALLENGE $145

FREE JERSEY

20 OFF ENTRY

%

Receive a premium Cinettica event jersey* (valued at $125.00)

FEES

* Limited to 200 riders

REGISTER NOW AT WWW.CLARECLASSIC.COM.AU WITH THANKS TO OUR PARTNERS AN EVENT BOUGHT TO YOU BY

STRATEGIC PARTNERS

SUPPORTING PARTNERS

MEDIA PARTNERS

LOCAL PARTNERS

TRAINING PARTNER

Product Focus: Refrigerants

Flammable refrigerants: A safe transition THE NATIONAL SALES MANAGER AT JOHNSON CONTROLS, BARRY ABBOUD, AND THE COMPANY'S MARKET ANALYST FOR CHILLER SOLUTIONS, JILL WOLTKAMP, SHARE INSIGHTS ON HOW TO MAKE A SAFE TRANSITION TO NEXT GENERATION REFRIGERANTS. PRIOR TO THE 1930’s, inventors used a variety of available chemicals to develop their ice machines and refrigerators. Some of these refrigerants found in nature, were readily available, and are still used in the refrigeration industry today. Several, however, were highly volatile and were discontinued when synthetic chlorof luorocarbons (CFCs) were invented—R11 being one of the earliest and most successful.

With CFCs, refrigerant was considerably safer and was more efficient than most refrigerants that had been used to that time.

Growth in the use of CFCs in both the air conditioning and refrigeration industry continued until the 1970’s when scientists connected the deterioration of the ozone layer above

40

CLIMATECONTROLNEWS.COM.AU

the Antarctic with their use.

By 1988, the Vienna Convention was entered into force, and the Montreal Protocol followed one year later defining the actions to be taken by both developed and developing nations to address ozone depletion. After the Montreal Protocol began the phase-out of CFCs, the HVAC industry has accelerated refrigerant development and testing in the search for more environmentally benign compounds, and, since the chemistry developments of the 1930s, the HVAC industry's primary concern has always been that of life safety.

Refrigerants are combinations of a limited number of elements with varying characteristics. Use of chlorine or bromine increase ozone depletion potential, while adding fluorine in-

creases global warming potential. Adding hydrogen increases flammability but lowers atmospheric lifetime. The challenge to chemists is to create a workable balance between a multitude of considerations, including environmental impact and efficiency, while not compromising on safety.

Currently, the global HVACR industry is tackling the third paradigm shift in synthetic refrigerant chemistry – the first went from CFCs to HCFCs, the second, from HCFCs to HFCs, and now the third, from HFCs to HFOs, HFO blends, and other low-GWP options, such as natural refrigerants.

Each transition has reduced the atmospheric lifetime of the refrigerant molecule in question by an order of magnitude. For example, the atmospheric lifetime for CFC-12 is 100 years, HFC-134a is just over 10 years, while HFO-1234yf is only 10 days.

Refrigerant molecules that rapidly degrade can have less impact on the environment. But rapid decomposition in the atmosphere is another way of saying that these refrigerant molecules are less stable, and potentially can be flammable under certain conditions. More reactive chemicals can also be more toxic. As a result, the industry is committed to thoroughly investigating the safety of today's fourthgeneration refrigerants, and making this transition is not without challenges.

ISO Standard 817 and ASHRAE Standard 34

Product Focus: Refrigerants

"MANUFACTURERS HAVE MADE SIGNIFICANT PROGRESS IN RECENT YEARS REDUCING UNIT CHARGE VOLUMES THROUGH NEW HEAT EXCHANGER TECHNOLOGIES."

classify both refrigerant flammability and toxicity. Letters A and B designate lower and higher toxicity. A number system denotes the level of flammability, with A1 for non-flammable, A2 for flammable, and A3 for higher flammability. In practice, the flammability and toxicity classifications are combined to indicate the general safety of the refrigerant. For example, HFC-134a is classified A1.

Recently, the new classification of 2L was created to indicate Mildly Flammable, which is defined as having a burning velocity (BV) of less than 10 cm/s. Compared to Class 2, Class 2L substances do not propagate readily a horizontal flame, only an upwards flame. Thus, a Class 2L refrigerant is effectively non-explosive if ignited, as the flame predominantly propagates in an upward direction and not rapidly outwards in many directions.

The current body of research has been largely influenced by refrigerant and some equipment manufacturers with a stake in greater adoption of these fluids. It is important that the continued work of third party independent research organisations validate this information and work across geographic borders to leverage the work done in different regions of the world.

SAFETY Research, certifications, regulation and implementation take time. It is important to be

thorough, not expedient, to ensure that this transition to lower GWP refrigerants is made without compromise. While some sectors of the refrigeration industry have utilised flammable refrigerants for some time, HVAC systems used for human comfort applications since the 1930's have traditionally used the safest Class A1 refrigerants, with the exception of HCFC-123, designated Class B1, under ASHRAE 34. Flammable refrigerants are uncommon in the HVAC industry.

The potential use of mildly f lammable A2L refrigerant in HVAC applications affects equipment designs and standards, building and fire codes, construction practices, manufacturing processes, material handling and life safety procedures. All of which must be updated to ensure refrigerants can be utilised safely.

Manufacturers, aware of this transition process, are evaluating new refrigerants and other technologies to advance performance, cost and safety of their products. Most manufacturers have been monitoring, testing and prototyping many of these refrigerant alternatives for many years.

For today’s R-134a based centrifugal and screw chiller platforms for example, medium pressure HFO-513A refrigerant blend, serves as a good option in terms of safety, capacity and efficiency for future applications, as it is also Class A1 refrigerant, with similar thermodynamic properties and with 56 per cent lower GWP. For scroll chiller platforms, several potential alternatives have been identified that look attractive due to their performance. For outdoor chillers, A2L f lammability risks can be more readily addressed. However,

f lammability presents a greater challenge for indoor equipment and for direct systems like rooftops, split systems, VRF and unitary equipment.

These new HFO refrigerants, currently limited in their availability, generally come with price premiums when compared to today’s HFCs. However, this will change over time.

As the newer generation HFO refrigerants are introduced to the market, their adoption rate will be a function of available equipment, distribution, local inventory, local pricing, service infrastructure, industry training and building code revisions commensurate with the new, updated AS/NZ Standards 817 and 5149.

A HFC phase-down was agreed under the Montreal Protocol in Kigali, Rwanda, in October 2016. Developed countries, such as Australia, will phase‐down their production and imports of HFCs by 85 per cent between 2019 and 2036. Developing countries will also phase-down HFCs over a more extended time schedule.

The HFC phase-down is importantly and deliberately not a phase out. HFCs will incur a gradual reduction in the maximum amount permitted to be imported into Australia, beginning from January 1, 2018. The end point is an 85 per cent reduction by December 31, 2035, which equates to 1.607 Mt CO2‐e annually from 2036 onwards.

RIGHT: Its important to consider the sum of both the direct and indirect effects.

CLIMATE CONTROL NEWS NOVEMBER 2017

41

Product Focus: Refrigerants

EFFICIENCY When we talk about the total environmental warming impact from an electric chiller (TEWI), we have to consider the sum of both the direct and indirect effects. The indirect effect is influenced significantly by the energy source mix of power generation and equipment efficiency. To

“THESE NEW HFO REFRIGERANTS, GENERALLY COME WITH PRICE PREMIUMS WHEN COMPARED TO TODAY’S HFCS.” specifically calculate the indirect impact, energy consumption per year is multiplied by the indirect emission factor which is multiplied by the system operating life. The direct impact is calculated by multiplying the refrigerant GWP times the refrigerant charge (amount of refrigerant in the unit) times the leakage rate times the system operating life.

Manufacturers have made significant progress in recent years addressing the direct effect by reducing unit charge volumes through new heat exchanger technologies. Leakage rates have also been significantly reduced through improved equipment designs.

Hypothetically, if we could completely eliminate the refrigerant charge impact of a chiller, so we remove the direct effect component of the global warming potential entirely, we are only left with the indirect effect to consider. In this case, how much of the carbon footprint remains? Surprisingly around 95 per cent of the total global warming impact remains due to indirect emissions from predominantly fossil fuel generated electric power. The important message here is that as we embrace a low GWP refrigerant future, we must not compromise and must continue to strive for higher levels of equipment efficiency.

HFCs are a type of synthetic greenhouse gases (SGGs) that contribute to climate change. As of 2013, synthetic greenhouse gases represented 1.8 per cent of Australia’s carbon dioxide equivalent (CO2‐e) emissions. The sequential reduction in import of HFC refrigerants permit-

LEFT TO RIGHT: Jill Woltkamp; Barry Abboud.

ted by the Australian Government under the Kigali phase-down agreement, is to ensure that this percentage does not continue to grow.

As the industry embraces the responsible transition to lower GWP natural and next-generation synthetic refrigerants, safety will always remain the primary consideration. Adoption of lower carbon intensity power will make a major contribution to reducing the significant indirect global warming effect of large electric HVAC chillers. Notwithstanding, both today and in the future, it is paramount to ensure high levels of product, system and building efficiency, which provide the greatest potential to reduce our overall carbon footprint. ✺

The only daily news site in Australia for the HVACR industry.

climatecontrolnews.com.au

YAFFA 08184

Explore the website + eNewsletter Any time, any device

42

CLIMATECONTROLNEWS.COM.AU 08184 CCN FP house.indd 1

10/10/17 3:46 PM

New products

Mobile airflow information AIREFRIG AUSTRALIA RECENTLY released the latest new product from the CPS Smart Tools Range, the ABM-HOOD-200 Volume Flow Hood.

Aptly named the EasyHood, it quickly and easily measures air volume while simultaneously measuring temperature, humidity, wet bulb and dew point. Airefrig Australia general manager, Stephen Cross, said the airflow hood is extremely accurate, very affordable and easy to use. "What impressed me about the ABM EasyHood is how quickly it records the conditions and the standardised reports which can be easily downloaded and sent out from job site via your smartphone or tablet which will save technicians a lot of time," he said.

Traditional flow hood design has typically used differential pressure technology and built-in user interfaces to gather and present airflow information.

In contrast, the EasyHood utilises the popular ABM-200 Airflow and Environmental Meter (integrated within the hood) which quickly takes measurements and downloads standard reports to your smartphone or device using the free CPS Link App. From here, the reports can be exported and emailed directly from the job site without the costs of a proprietary interface.

"The days of service companies having only one flow hood for their fleet, renting hoods or subcontracting out the work can be a thing of the past with the new EasyHood. Its accuracy and affordability enables the luxury of ownership," Cross said.

The EasyHood with expansion hood fitted weighs in at only 2.4kg and comes with a protective carry case. Accuracy is verified in accordance with ANSI/AMCA standards.

Call 1800 671 500 or visit www.airefrig.com.au.

ABOVE: Accurate, affordable and easy to use.

Modular liquid analyser

Portal for bottle coolers CAREL HAS LAUNCHED a highly-digitised system comprising connected devices, mobile APP, cloud portal, data analytics and predictive logic.

Last month Carel presented its new Applica mobile app and Armilla cloud portal for data management, designed specifically for beverage companies and their partners. Applica completely changes the user experience in the field for installers and maintenance personnel, providing simple and intuitive interaction with the units, according to the company's local and remote monitoring platform manager, Serena Ometto. "In this digital era, all systems can transfer operating parameters and indicators for use in any type of analysis. The latest challenge then is to transform this data into useful information for different types of users," Ometto said. To meet these needs, Carel developed Armilla, an intelligent system for processing the acquired data.

"By exploiting our thermodynamic expertise and experience in this business, data is collected and presented in the form of clearly understandable charts and dashboards," Ometto said.

THE FAMILY OF modular S80-T80 Liquid Analysers from ElectroChemical Devices (ECD) is designed to provide engineers and managers with the process data they need to obtain and maintain a wide range of global, regional and local quality, environmental, safety and other certifications, as well as achieve government regulatory operational compliance.

The ECD instrumentation portfolio is covered by international certifications for CSA, FM, IECEx and ATEX with various hazardous location type design approvals available.

ECD's S80 Sensors measure pH, ORP, pION, dissolved oxygen, turbidity, conductivity or resistivity in liquid processes. S80 Sensors feature two universal sensor designs: Insertion/Submersion or Valve Retractable with flared end to prevent blow out. The standard S80 Sensors are manufactured with a rugged 0.75inch OD 316 stainless steel body and come with varying cable lengths or an optional waterproof detachable cable assembly.

The design of the S80 Sensors recognises the universal T80 Transmitter for automatic configuration set-up. They can be combined into a complete plug-andplay analyser system for any of the available measurement parameters. The S80 Sensors are ready for direct in line pipe insertion, submersion, or open tank applications. The sensors contain a replaceable electrode design so only the electrode ABOVE: From the family of needs to be replaced.

S80-T80 liquid analysers.

CLIMATE CONTROL NEWS  NOVEMBER 2017

43

New products

Accurate flow detection for smaller pipe sizes ENGINEERS WHO NEED accurate flow detection or measurement of air, gases, or liquids in smaller pipe sizes will find several diverse flow instrument solutions available from Fluid Components International (FCI).

Using advanced, ultra-reliable thermal dispersion flow measurement technology with no-moving parts, FCI's ST75 Series and ST100L Air/Gas Flow Meters and FLT93L Flow Switch provide ideal solutions for use in 0.25 to two inch (DN6 to DN50) pipe or tubing.

They excel where low flows, wide-turndowns, dirty fluids, HazEx or harsh installations are among the applications factors.

These flow instruments offer many advantages for service in a wide range of applications from plant, building or lab gas sub-metering to small inlet air/gas feed lines for boilers.

Many small process line applications are difficult to measure reliably with high repeatability due to variations in temperature and pressure, and have wide flow rates.

FCI's thermal flow meters and switches are unaffected by, or have onboard compensation for, temperature and pressure changes and, in addition to superior detection of low flow rates, provide 100:1 turndown as a standard feature.

FCI's ST75 Series Air/ Gas Flow Meters are ideal for lines sizes from 6mm to 51mm.

ABOVE: Small process line applications are harder to measure.

44

CLIMATECONTROLNEWS.COM.AU

These systems are ideal for cooler, freezer and blast freezer applications.

Ammonia systems to shape future product landscape HILLPHOENIX HAS ANNOUNCED the addition of NXTCOLD ultra-low charge ammonia systems to its industrial refrigeration portfolio, providing a unique extension to its industry-leading natural refrigerant product offerings.

NXTCOLD combines the benefits of ammonia with a revolutionary technology that reduces the size of the refrigerant charge and is ideal for cooler, freezer and blast freezer applications.

"With our manufacturing capabilities and our core competencies focused in the arena of natural refrigerants, this system gives us the ability to add ammonia to our portfolio and deliver more options to our customers and the marketplace," Hillphoenix industrial refrigeration vice president, David Neu, said. NXTCOLD's ultra-low ammonia charge of 6 to 8oz per tonne is the lowest charge ammonia refrigeration solution available for large refrigeration facilities.

As a result, it is not subject to the same extensive regulatory mandates as large ammonia charge systems.

The company's senior vice president for product strategy and innovation, Eduardo Navarro de Andrade, said the units are delivered pre-assembled after undergoing rigorous quality control inspections at Hillphoenix.

New products

Zoning in on voice AIRSTREAM, A PERTH-BASED technology company, recently launched its Google Home/iZone interface. iZone is a rapidly expanding fully integrated third-party control system that controls the air conditioning unit, zones, room temperatures and so much more. iZone air conditioning, lighting (iLight) and garden reticulation (iDrate) can now all be controlled via your Google assistant. So, you don't have to even reach for your phone. Just tell Google what you want and your little assistant will take care of it.

It is a lot of fun, but like all voice recognition technology it takes a little training of both the Google Assistant and the human to get consistent voice control of your iZone system. iZone is compatible with most air conditioning brands including Panasonic, Daikin, Temperzone, Hitachi, Toshiba, Mitsubishi Electric, Mitsubishi Heavy Industries, Fujitsu, York, Haier, Samsung, Midea and LG. Airstream has distributors in Western Australia, South Australia, Victoria, NSW, Queensland, Hobart, New Zealand and South Africa.

For more information, visit Airstream at ARBS in Sydney next year or contact sales@air-stream.com.au.

Mini chiller with free cooling STULZ HAS ANNOUNCED the launch of the WPAmini chiller with integrated free cooling.

It has been designed specifically for data centres with low cooling requirements and industrial chilling.

The compact chiller will deliver a cooling capacity up to 160kW in a very small space.

The chillers are operated with two redundant refrigerant circuits to increase operational reliability. Both circuits are controlled on the basis of the required cooling capacity, so that the respective circuit is activated with maximum efficiency when minimal cooling is needed.

The WPAmini is equipped with maximum size aluminium microchannel condensers and four scroll compressors, which are activated and deactivated (25, 50, 75, 100 per cent) in stages, in line with the current heat load.

The compressor operating time can be reduced to a minimum using the optional free cooling facility, which will considerably reduce power consumption and operating costs.

Three operating modes are available in

total: DX mode, free cooling mode and mixed mode. In mixed mode, cooling capacity is generated by means of simultaneous free cooling and compressor cooling. This means that significant energy savings can be achieved even at moderate outdoor temperatures.

In noise critical applications, a quiet version is available that has extra acoustic insulation. Here, the compressors are enclosed in a special sound-insulated housing, which lowers the volume to conversation level.

The chillers can also be fitted with optional fan diffusers, which will improve the air conduction and further reduces the noise level, as well as electricity consumption. Thanks to the technology, this latest innovation from Stulz can also run in extreme local climates. Its extensive operating limits range from -40 to +50°C, depending on the model.

The generously designed switch gear cabinet ensures there is space for any additional electrical equipment.

This is a benefit as there is no need for extra switch gear cabinets or extensions.

Caption xxxxxxxxx

CLIMATE CONTROL NEWS  NOVEMBER 2017

45

Temperature Gauge

TARKETT TECHNICAL MARKETING AND SUSTAINABILITY MANAGER, REZA KARANI, EXPLAINS HOW INDOOR AIR QUALITY (IAQ) CONCERNS HAS SHAPED MODERN ARCHITECTURE AND THE ENVIRONMENTAL PERFORMANCE OF BUILDINGS.

IAQ shaping architecture, building performance ACCORDING TO THE World Health Organisation (WHO), millions of people die each year from exposure to indoor and outdoor air pollution. When you consider we spend 90 per cent of our time indoors, it is critical that inside air is as clean as possible.

The presence and size of particulate matter (PM) or fine dust is a determining factor in air quality and is directly linked to potential health problems. Once inhaled, these particles can contribute to the spread of microbial contaminants, such as mould, pollen and allergens. In addition, they can affect the heart and lungs, and cause serious physiological problems (e.g., changes in lung function or inflammation markers).

The condition of the physical environment can spread or exacerbate illness, which can result in absenteeism from school or work and delayed recovery from other health conditions. For example, the condition of the built environment has been shown by Belanger et al. (2006) to be a probable asthma trigger.

Poor air quality can also be caused by the use of building materials that off-gas during their use, producing odours and introducing volatile

organic compounds (VOC) into the indoor environment. This can lead to serious health issues for building occupants.

These days, especially in developed countries, people consider their health and well-being more. They choose healthier foods, exercise more and prefer to live, work and study in healthier environments.

From an economic perspective, poor IAQ costs money for businesses and governments. In the United States, the financial gains from achieving good Indoor Environment Quality in a workplace (which IAQ is a major part of it) are estimated to be up to $540 per employee/company/year, as staff generally are more productive and have fewer days off work due to illness (Fisk and Seppanen, 2007). A 2004 report estimated that poor Indoor Environment Quality could cost the Australian economy $12 billion/year (Building Commission Victoria, 2004).

The importance of IAQ is visible in all sustainability guidelines and schemes all around the world. For example, there are many criteria in GreenStar rating tools, WELL standard and Living Building Challenge (LBC) to im-

prove the IAQ as much as possible.

Sustainable buildings not only are equipped with very high performance and well-designed HVAC systems to improve the IAQ through appropriate ventilation, but they also create lowtoxicity environments through reductions of pollutants and removal of harmful materials from existing buildings.

Using low VOC materials in buildings has evolved from a "nice to have" to a key feature of sustainable buildings. Most manufacturers of paint, adhesive, sealant and flooring (products with historically high VOC) are using new technologies to minimise VOC in their products. For example, Tarkett was a pioneer in implementing groundbreaking technologies to dramatically reduce VOC content. Some of Tarkett's flooring products contain as much as 500 times less VOC than Green Building Council Australia (GBCA) Design and As-Built rating tool requirements.

Currently, Tarkett is seeing an increasing number of tenants enquiring about toxics and VOC contents in building materials, which demonstrate higher awareness and concern about their health and well-being in the built environment. Industry wise, there is a huge move to more sustainable building design in education institutes and workplaces due to the cost associated with illness and absenteeism and, as a consequence, builders are applying more responsible building materials and solutions to improve the quality of the indoor air and environment.

To address the increased pressure on design professionals to build healthier, sustainable indoor environments, we recently launched the iQ One flooring range which provides them with a non-PVC and phthalate-free, low VOC emissions and fully recyclable option that has not yet been seen in this market category.

We have also collaborated with the University of Melbourne to offer for the first time an award to recognise creativity and social conscience of design students in Victoria. Initiatives like this award are a step in the right direction to uncover and motivate the most innovative use of sustainable building design, and to ultimately push the industry as a whole to new heights.

Tarkett is a leader in environmentally responsible manufacturing and sustainable product development. To learn about our other initiatives in this space visit www.tarkett.com.au. âœş ABOUT THE AUTHOR Reza Karani is an architect who has worked with international building material manufacturers such as Tarkett and Knauf. His expertise is in the domain of sustainability with a focus on building materials characteristics and their lifecycle impact on the environment.

46

CLIMATECONTROLNEWS.COM.AU

We love CO2 and we are pretty sure you will love it too 14%

energy savings compared to R404A

Danfoss Multi Ejector Solution™ for transcritical CO2 refrigeration in all climates The Multi Ejector Solution™ takes supermarket refrigeration to a higher level. By uniting two great products into one best-in-class solution, we’ve given professionals all over the world the opportunity to harness the numerous benefits of using CO2 as a refrigerant and use transcritical CO2 refrigeration systems in all climates.

At Danfoss, we love our planet, we love CO2, and we love the new Multi Ejector Solution™.

We are pretty sure you will love it too.

Learn more and fall in love at multiejectorsolution.danfoss.com