EFFICIENT SPACE HEATER
Cambridge Engineering: The S-Series High Efficiency Space Heater uses Blow-Thru space heating technology, where a proprietary burner is located downstream of the blower. Certified for both 160 F temperature rise and 160 F discharge temperature at 0 F outside air. High velocity discharge air induces large volumes of room air into the discharge stream, at a ratio exceeding 10:1, mixing high temperature discharge air with room air. The units are smaller and more energy efficient for space heating compared to a conventional draw-through make-up air heater, and use a lower horsepower motor and less outside air to heat a building, according to the company.
HYBRID MOTOR DESIGN
Baldor Electric Company: The new RPM XE platform achieves efficiency performance two to four efficiency bands above NEMA Premium efficient levels (IE3) by utilizing a hybrid motor design, according to the company. The motor starts like a traditional design B induction motor and pulls into true synchronous speed and operates as a true synchronous machine. Laminated finned frame construction provides greater heat dissipation. Operating temperature is lower than typical B and F rise temperatures found in the traditional cast iron or steel band induction motors. The platform is available in two design configurations, a power dense and standard NEMA frame.
ON-DEMAND COMFORT
Comfy: Comfy is an occupant-facing software app that aims to deliver on-demand, personalized comfort. Occupants use the app to select a location and make a request to instantly warm or cool the space. The system plugs into the BAS via BACnet/IP and communicates with HVAC systems. Machine learning automatically tunes the workplace for comfort and savings based on occupant patterns and preferences. The system is subscription-based, with no upfront fixed fees. Hot/cold calls are nearly eliminated, according to the company, which says the app typically cuts HVAC energy costs.
‘LISTENING’ TO EQUIPMENT
Augury: The Auguscope listens to mechanical equipment with vibration and ultrasonic sensors and analyzes data. The portable device is designed to catch developing malfunctions before problems arise. It generates actionable diagnostics with maintenance recommendations. The technology is supported by iPhone and Android apps, where users can see the latest status of their facilities’ machines. Reports allow users to track repairs, add observations, and include photographs. Military grade, IP-67 certified.
CONNECT HYDRONICS, BAS
Danfoss: These days, facility managers can get data from places they might never have expected. A case in point: the NovoCon S digital actuator, a motorized, modulating digital actuator that combines the functionalities of a digital actuator, bus communication device, flow indicator, and data logger. The digital actuator fits onto the company’s AB-QM pressure independent control valve to provide control and communication between a hydronic system and a BAS via Fieldbus. Actuator features such as commissioning, flow indication, and flushing are remotely available. Enables status feedback and alarms.
SPRAY + DRY COOLER
NIMBUS Advanced Process Cooling: The VIRGA III is a closed-loop cooling system that uses hybrid adiabatic cooling technology. It conserves water compared to traditional open evaporative cooling systems, with greater cooling capacity than dry air coolers, according to the company. It releases a fine water spray into the air prior to the air being pulled over the copper cooling tubes — lowering air temperature and increasing the heat rejection capacity of the unit. Operates as a dry air cooler during colder months. Does not rely on a sump of standing water, eliminating chemical treatment and breeding ground for Legionella pneumophila, the company says.
SCRUBBER TARGETS IAQ, ENERGY
enVerid: Bringing in outside air can improve indoor air quality, but can also increase energy costs. The HVAC Load Reduction (HLR) module is a “smart scrubber" that cleans indoor air with reusable sorbents. The idea is to minimize the amount of outdoor air required to maintain IAQ. The new Series E line features “closed loop regeneration” technology that enables the system to operate in both warm and cold climates. The first unit in the new line, the HLR 1000E, offers more accurate sensors, lower weight and compact form factor, BACNet protocol, real-time access for monitoring energy use and IAQ, and cloud connectivity.
R290 SYSTEM FOR COOLERS
Embraco: Global warming concerns about some common refrigerants are leading manufacturers to introduce products using refrigerants with low global warming potential. The Plug n’ Cool sealed unit line is an R290 (refrigerant-grade propane) pre-charged sealed system designed for top-mounted reach-in coolers for grocery stores, supermarkets, and professional kitchens. The modular design allows machines to be moved piece by piece for flexibility in store layout. The “plug and play” design is intended to ease installation. Retailers can maintain the system themselves, according to the company. Owners simply need a sufficient water supply and return lines to cabinets. The unit’s water-cooled condenser decreases the amount of heat released into the air.
HYBRID ROOFTOP VENTILATOR
EdmondsUSA: The ecoPOWER is hybrid commercial rooftop ventilator that combines gravity and motorized ventilation with an EC motor. It is based on a high performance turbine that offers higher CFM than gravity ventilators with flat rainproof hats, giving more free air flow caused by wind, hot air, or both, according to the company. Three throat diameters: 16 inch (with 1400 CFM at 68 watts), 24 inch (2519 CFM at 106 watts) and 36 inch (5885 CFM at 260 watts).
19.8 SEER VRF
Fujitsu General America: J-II single-phase VRF is a heat-pump, serving ambient heating and cooling applications in a 3- to 5-ton size range. It offers up to 19.8 SEER and 11.4 HSPF, significantly exceeding other equivalent VRF products and rooftop units of comparable size, the company says. Up to nine indoor units can be connected to each condensing unit. Indoor units range in size from 7 kBTU to 60 kBTU and come in 11 styles. Controls include scheduling, sleep timer, economy operation, and automatic season changeover. Several units can be connected to building management systems over BACnet, LonWorks or Modbus.
SMALL BUILDING OPTIMIZATION
Optimum Energy: OptimumEDGE is a quick-start HVAC optimization solution engineered for small to midsize facilities with up to three chillers and a combined cooling capacity of 400 to 2,000 tons. The relational control algorithms of OptimumEDGE are designed to optimize chiller system components in relation to one another in response to real-time loads and changing ambient and occupancy conditions, rather than optimizing components individually to fixed set points. OptimumEDGE software runs on a JACE 8000 controller that operates with Niagara 4.
PACKAGED FUME EXHAUST
Greenheck: FumeJet pre-engineered, centrifugal fume exhaust packaged models offer extended discharge. Designed per ANSI Z9.2 standard for local exhaust systems, Models FJC and FJI provide a compact footprint with motors and drives located under a common weatherhood, plus configurable mounting options. The fan and stack assembly have been designed and factory tested to withstand a wind speed of 22 PSF (92 miles per hour) without the need for guy wires. Maximum exhaust volume of 15,000 cfm and up to 8 in. wg (1250 Pa) plus multiple levels of construction. Designed for quick installation, according to the company.
ECM CIRCULATOR
Taco Comfort Solutions: The 007e ECM circulator offers the performance of the 007 model combined with high-efficiency ECM technology that, the company says, uses up to 85 percent less electricity and requires no programming. The unit features the BIO Barrier, designed to protect the pump from contaminants, and the SureStart function, which automatically frees locked rotor conditions and self-purges air. LED displays show orange for normal operation and white for SureStart mode. Offers compact size, dual electrical knock-outs, six-inch stranded wire leads, Integral Flow Check, and double insulation — no ground wire required.
COMPRESSOR OPTIMIZATION RETROFIT
CoolGreenPower: Coolnomix is a retrofit energy efficiency device designed to optimize compressor operation. The device shuts off the compressor once it has done enough work to reach the desired temperature with the liquid it has already condensed. The company says the device also eliminates compressor short-cycling and evaporator coil ice build-up. Use of two temperatures sensors enables the system to reduce the deadband to about 1 degree, according to the company. The device can be installed in less than an hour and requires no infrastructure changes.
COOLING SYSTEM USES CO2
SPX Cooling Technologies, Inc.: The Recold Vector Adiabatic Cooling System is a oncethrough system for halocarbon refrigerant condensing or CO2 gas cooling applications in supermarket refrigeration systems. Condensing capacity of 25295 tons and CO2 gas cooling capacity of 32372 tons. Evaporative pads precool air only on peak days, providing lower energy use and smaller footprint than an air-cooled condenser and lower site water use than an evaporative condenser, according to the company. Integral energy management system monitors and regulates fan speed.
25 SEER DUCTLESS LINE
Carrier: The improved Performance Series ductless product line offers HVAC mid-tier single-zone outdoor units. The units will provide 100 percent heating capacity at five degrees and heating operation down to -22 degrees. The variable-speed inverter compressor provides up to 25 SEER (Seasonal Energy Efficiency Ratio) and heating up to 12 Heating Seasonal Performance Factor. The new outdoor units are designed for compatibility with the Performance Series high wall, cassette, ducted, and floor console indoor units while operating as low as 27 A-weighted decibels.
DROP-IN R22 REPLACEMENT
Bluon Energy: TdX 20 is designed as a drop-in a replacement for R-22, with no oil change or equipment modifications required. It is a blend of five HFC refrigerants. The differing boiling points of refrigerants in the blend enable heat to be extracted across more coil surface, reducing energy use in HVAC equipment that uses R-22 with essentially no change in capacity, the company says. Compressor stability is improved, according to company. Operates at lower pressure with lower GWP than R-22. A1 safety classification. Approved by EPA for commercial comfort air conditioning, industrial process refrigeration, and retail food refrigeration.
BOILER: PROGRAMMABLE ZONES
Weil-McLain: Evergreen boiler offers the ability to cascade eight boilers together and features ZoneStacking — up to 24 programmable zones with no additional external third party control required. ZoneStacking is designed to maintain optimal efficiency through lead-lag rotation and balanced heat loading. Evergreen 220 and 299 boilers have an AFUE rating of 95 percent. Straightforward user interface is designed to simplify programming and monitoring. SmartSequencing feature maximizes energy across boilers on a system, according to company. Less than 20 ppm NOx. Three multiple-boiler sequencing options: smart mode, series mode, and parallel mode. Floor standing or wall mount options. Compact design. Completely packaged.
HIGH-DENSITY COOLING
Schneider Electric: The second generation InRow DX (direct expansion) 600 mm cooling solution is capable of high-density cooling up to 42kW with a 4,000 SCFM maximum airflow in a 600 mm-wide footprint. It cuts energy consumption by 50 percent over first generation technology through use of new brushless variable speed scroll compressors and EC fans, making it the most efficient system of its class, according to the company. Active Flow Control measures air pressure inside the containment system and automatically adjusts fan speed to match the exact airflow of the IT equipment. Designed to prevent hot air recirculation.
SCREW CHILLER HAS VFD
Daikin Applied: Pathfinder air-cooled screw chiller is a fully configurable unit. Compressor design has variable volume ratio capability and integrated VFD for efficiently matching required cooling. Single rotor design and built-in muffler are intended to ensure quiet operation at all load conditions. Shrouded condenser fan design reduces noise transmission from the fans to adjacent space. Composite, single
piece condenser fan blade provides quiet operation and resistance to corrosion. Available in 165 to 550 tons.
HEAT TRANSFER: NANO-PARTICLES
Hydromx: Hydromx heat transfer fluid uses nano-particles that are suspended in a stable state to increase the speed of heat transfer, by heating up (or removing heat from) the fluid and transferring energy in a shorter amount of time, according to the company. The faster heat transfer means heating and cooling equipment run time and energy consumption is reduced. It is most suitable for closed-loop heating and cooling systems and is formulated to prevent corrosion, calcification and algae in the systems. It is certified under the BuildCert Chemical Inhibitor Approval Scheme. NSF International certified.
EFFICIENT OUTDOOR UNITS
Mitsubishi Electric: The City Multi L-Generation Air-Source outdoor unit features HexiCoil technology, a zinc-aluminum flat tube heat exchanger designed to maximize heat transfer capability through its fin shape. The unit has a 30 percent smaller footprint than previous models and up to 50 percent reduction in system refrigerant charge. Single modules up to 14 tons with the ability to combine modules for systems up to 30 tons. Best-in-class efficiency ratings, according to the company. Floating/adjustable evaporation temperature in swing seasons.
DOAS DEHUMIDIFIERS
Seresco USA: The Outdoor Air Series of indoor-split dedicated outdoor air system (DOAS) dehumidifiers removes moisture from outdoor air before the air is brought into the building. The product uses glycol with PVC piping instead of an HFC refrigerant with copper piping for heat rejection to an outdoor dry cooler. Features fully-dipped corrosion-resistant coils, electronically-commutated motor/fans, and unit configurations that separate critical components/controls from the supply air stream. WebSentry provides real-time monitoring capabilities for more than 100 operating parameters. From six to 30 tons and 1,000 to 6,000 cfm.
DIGITAL MIXING, RECIRC
Powers, a Watts Water Technology Company: IntelliStation mixing and recirculation system provides fast-response digital temperature regulation of domestic water within 2 degrees, even during low and zero-demand periods. The ASSE 1017-listed system is easily configurable in the field. A smart controller with a 3.5-inch full-color touchscreen interface displays nearly 200 combinations of critical data, including mixed outlet temperature and mixed and return flow, as well as energy consumption. Sanitization mode allows for high-temperature system purges to address bacteria and controls a recirculation pump to optimize loop performance. Lead-free system integrates with BAS with BACnet MSTP, BACnetIP and Modbus protocols.
REMOTE CONNECTIVITY: BOILERS
Lochinvar: The Crest Condensing Boiler features the company’s CON•X•US remote connectivity platform. All models offer the next generation of the company’s all-in-one Smart Touch operating control with the integration of CON•X•US remote connect. Using a wired or wireless connection, the CON•X•US platform sends alerts via text or email notifying the user of changes in system status and allows for the modification of boiler settings from almost anywhere. Smart Touch with CON•X•US can be integrated directly into BAS via Modbus and BACnet MSTP as standard equipment.
MULTI-FUEL HYDRONIC BOILER
AERCO International: For facilities that need high reliability, a boiler that offers a backup fuel option can help avoid downtime. The Multi-Fuel Condensing hydronic boiler is capable of being fired with natural gas, propane, or No. 2 fuel oil (as backup). Six MFC models ranging from three to 10 million BTU/hr capacities are available. The boilers have 5:1 turndown ratio when firing on natural gas or propane. A 4-pass fire tube heat exchanger helps the unit achieve operating efficiency of up to 96 percent. Fully modulating capability.
LOW THD DRIVE
Yaskawa: The HVAC Matrix drive (Z1000U) is designed to provide very low harmonic distortion in a space-saving design, along with the same HVAC-specific features as the standard Z1000. Matrix technology directly converts input AC voltage to output AC voltage and reduces total harmonic distortion levels to less than the IEEE compliance standard of 5 percent, without reactors and filters. This single-component solution achieves very low distortion levels with no need for additional countermeasures such as passive filters or multi-pulse arrangements, the company says. Available in 7.5 to 350 HP.
VARIABLE SPEED CRAC
Data Aire: gForce Ultra computer room air conditioning (CRAC) unit incorporates variable-speed technology to provide energy savings, precise cooling, and greater capacity modulation, the company says. VFD controller allows compressor to home in on and hold required load. Variable speed compressor provides capacity modulation to accurately match varying temperature. Electronic expansion valve regulates flow of refrigerant to coil for superior superheat control and the ability to maintain a lower, energy-saving superheat. Venturi-flo refrigerant distributor designed for maximum distribution efficiency with minimum pressure drop. Soft start. Turn down ratio of 4:1.
CENTRAL CONTROLLER
LG: The AC Smart IV central controller communicates with the company’s air conditioners and ventilation units and controls up to 128 devices. In addition to basic unit control and monitoring, features include scheduling, auto-changeover, email alarm notification, visual floor plan navigation, and interlocking. Can control third-party devices with an I/O kit. Outfitted with a 10.2-inch LCD touch-screen display with user-controlled Web access.
HVAC PRESS-TO-CONNECT
Parker Hannifin Corp.: ZoomLock is a braze-free HVAC/R copper connecting technology. It is a press-to-connect technology that is approved for HVAC/R operating pressures up to 700 psi. Using specially designed crimping tools, the technician connects the deburred tube ends into the fitting (which has o-rings inside), and presses the assembly into place. In minutes, the tool provides a clean, leak-proof connection, and the fittings are more repeatable than brazed joints, according to the company. If the press fitting is not crimped properly, it can easily be re-crimped. Requires no adhesives, just the crimping tool and the fitting.
VARIABLE-SPEED PUMP UPGRADE
Armstrong Fluid Technology: The Design Envelope Vertical-In-Line Retrofit allows facility managers to upgrade to variable speed by replacing the moving parts of an installed constant speed pump while retaining the existing pump casing, insulation, and piping. Because the existing casing is reused, there's no need for a pressure test after the installation. Design Envelope solutions don’t require differential pressure sensors, wall-mounted drives, or additional wiring.
OCCUPANCY-SENSING T-STAT
Leviton: Omnistat 3 Hospitality Thermostat is a retrofit solution developed for guest room energy management. The small form factor thermostat has a capacitive touch face. When paired with the company’s wireless Lumina RF load controls and sensors, it provides control for hospitality rooms and suites. Device detects if a hospitality room is occupied and automatically adjusts heat and cool set points, as well as on/off control of lights, televisions, lamps, and other equipment. Five on-board relays provide support for HVAC systems including heat pumps, conventional, multi-stage, 2-pipe, and 4-pipe systems.
HYBRID WATER HEATER
Rinnai: Demand Duo commercial hybrid system combines 96 percent efficient tankless technology with a 119–gallon storage tank. It delivers 315 gallons in the first hour and provides a direct replacement for most traditional and high efficiency commercial tanks. Demand Duo features direct vent, common venting options, and single-unit vent room-air ability that uses a building’s existing vertical vent penetration, eliminating the need for additional holes in the walls and roofs to allow for external ventilation. 199,000 BTU, fueled by either natural gas or propane.
FAN COIL RETROFIT
International Environmental Corporation: The MiniReStoraMOD is a small high-rise fan coil solution designed to speed replacement in hospitality, higher education, and multifamily applications. It slides into the shell of an existing unit, avoiding the need to shut down an entire riser. Standard ECM and closed cell insulation. Wall panel covers the rough opening and eliminates the need for finish work. 380 CFM. Because it can be installed using existing materials with minimal disruption to existing space, it minimizes the number of outside trades that need to be involved.
EVAP COOLING + HUMIDIFICATION
DriSteem: Wetted Media System provides evaporative cooling and humidification in air handlers and ducts. Heat already present in air evaporates water from saturated media, reducing the building's cooling load. Multiple, separately controlled stages of media allow the system to dry out one stage at a time, so remaining stages can continue to evaporate water and cool the air. Temperature control lets the system anticipate need for additional stages based on temperatures upstream and downstream. Water is circulated through a UV germicidal system. Power flush pump suspends and removes debris.
HOSPITALITY-ROOM CONTROL
Telkonet: EcoTouch wireless thermostat uses occupancy sensing technology with ultra-sensitive wide-angle passive infrared and active IR detection. Proximity sensing minimizes onscreen lighting when no one is near the thermostat but begins to brighten when a guest approaches. Auto-dimming matches thermostat illumination to room light levels. Thermostat has a sleek minimalistic design and an aesthetically simple and customizable user interface. Units are 15 millimeters thick and only large enough to cover a standard single gang electrical box. EcoTouch offers a touch capacitive interface and utilizes haptic feedback to ensure guest interaction is friendly and obvious.
DESTRATIFICATION FAN
Airius: Airius’ Q series air turbine destratification fan has unique motor mounting method designed to maximize airflow and produce the least amount of noise. It has a multi-vane stator system that significantly increases air throw for maximizing performance, the company says. The fans continuously and gently mix the air, balancing temperatures (destratification) from ceiling to floor and wall to wall to help the HVAC system maintain the desired temperature. Electronically commutated or PSC motor available.
DROP-IN TABLETS
Goodway Technologies: The CoilPro CC-200 two-in-one coil cleaning solution combines drop-in tablet technology for cleaning coils and combines it with a vacuum to remove dust and dirt prior to cleaning. The tablet-system, CoilShine-T and CoilShine-T-BIO, consists of a two step process using one tablet to clean and another bio protectant tablet to help prevent odor and deliver better IAQ. Coil cleaning pressure of 200 PSI, 0.9 GPM with 8-gallon tank or continuous water supply, plus 100 CFM wet/dry integrated vacuum system with 7-gallon capacity.
photo in Images bo0316/Innovative Products
AIR-COOLED CHILLERS
Johnson Controls: Quantech air cooled chillers ship within 2 to 5 days from inventory. QTC3 air-cooled scroll chiller line is available in 55 to 200 tons. The chillers offer full- and part-load efficiencies that meet or exceed ASHRAE 90.1-2013. Made-to-order options include VSD condenser fans as well as integral pump packages to offer a single purchase, shipment, and install solution. Compressors are equipped with two independent circuits for partial redundancy. Compared to existing chillers being replaced, these units are smaller, lighter, and quieter, with less maintenance, and offer 18 to 50 percent savings in energy cost, according to the company.
Technology Innovation in HVAC Means FMs Have Range of New Options
HVAC Products
