Endress + Hauser

Claiming that they make transparent consumption recording of energy-intensive processing steps as well as the heating and cooling invoicing possible, Endress + Hauser has introduced two products: the BTU meter EngyCal RH33 and the steam meter EngyCal RS33. They are recording meters for liquids and steam, respectively.

According to the manufacturer, the EngyCal RH33 was developed especially for applications with liquids, such as water, water glycol mixtures or thermal oils. EngyCal RH33 calculates the enthalpy (hot and cold), the energy (thermal flow), the density and the mass flow precisely, based on the flow value and the temperature difference measured.

Elaborating on the second product, RS33, the manufacturer claimed that it was developed for saturated steam applications or for applications with superheated steam, and added that it calculates the enthalpy, energy (the thermal flow) as well as the density and the mass flow based on the flow value as well as temperature and/or pressure. All calculations, said the manufacturer, are carried out according to the EN 1434 and IAPWS-IF 97 standard (International Association for the Properties of Water and Steam).

Explaining the process, the manufacturer said that heat meters and temperature sensors can be optionally ordered with MID approval — that is, custody transfer approval. As an additional option, the integrated DP flow compensation makes the highest precision possible in applications with difference pressure flow meters, it added.

Endress + Hauser has listed the following product features and advantages:

• Calibrated and electronically paired temperature sensors ensure high-accuracy temperature difference measurement (primarily important in cooling applications) and make an exchange of individual sensors possible in the field (also on custody transfer devices). A cost-intensive use of paired sensors, is therefore, not necessary.

Transparency during the regular process and in fault or alarm conditions:

• EngyCal has a built-in measurement logbook as well as an event logbook. The measurement memory with defined report formats (day, month, year, billing date), event logbook and additional tariff counters create transparency during the regular process, ensure a quick summary of consumption values and make energy invoicing possible.
• Due to a defined fault behaviour and the separate deficit counter, the meter ensures transparency of the energy calculation and documentation for invoices.
• In steam applications, the wet steam alarm gives additional security; condensed steam hinders an exact energy calculation.
• Using the Field Data Manager Software the stored measurements, alarms and events as well as the device configuration can be selected (automatically) and stored manipulation-proof in a SQL database.

Highlighting the point that computers can be applied in the support processes of all industries (for example, heating and cooling production, steam production, heating, cooling and steam distribution systems), in district heating networks as well as in building technology, the manufacturer elaborated the following:

Open and web based information and integration into systems:

• If devices are connected using Ethernet, customers can read out measurement data, calculated values and device data (such as serial number, TAG) at any time, using the integrated web server.
• Additional software for the supervision of online data is, thus, rendered unnecessary.
• It can also be optionally ordered with interfaces for Modbus RTU & TCP or M-bus in order to ensure easy system integration.
• It is a user-friendly device due to a flexible set-up in the field in selectable languages.
• Custody transfer heat counters are normally ordered pre-programmed. The integrated calibration logbook makes storekeeping of EngyCal and flexible set-up of the device possible for custody transfer applications.
• EngyCal has a multi-line backlit LC display and a language package for freely selectable operating languages. Configuration can be carried out on the spot, using push buttons or using a USB interface and FieldCare.
• Developed for the process industry, the products are suitable for connection to and powering of all commonly used flow meters, pressure transducers and temperature measurement points.
• The compact housing for field or wall mounting, panel mounted installation and DIN rail mounting makes the use of the device possible in all surroundings.
• It is optionally also delivered pre-programmed.

According to Endress + Hauser, EngyCal RH33 and RS33 are deliverable since August.

Awards Valerius Füner Foundation prize

Compressor manufacturer Bitzer has reported introducing several product innovations at Chillventa 2010, which included reciprocating compressors for subcritical CO2 applications, the Octagon varispeed series and the Ecostar condensing unit, CS.3 series screw compressors and the Orbit 8 scroll compressor series.

“With our innovations, we are responding to the future challenges that are becoming ever more significant for the refrigeration and air conditioning industries,” said Hans P Meurer, Chief Sales and Marketing Officer and Managing Director of Bitzer. “There is a growing sense of responsibility towards the environment, the question of sustainability and the ever greater importance of energy savings, owing to rising energy costs.”

According to Bitzer, in addition to the technical innovations on display, the award of the Valerius Füner Prize on the first day of the fair was another highlight at its stand. As the main sponsor of the Valerius Füner Foundation, Bitzer has supported the training of young people for many years, it said. And this year, the prize was awarded to Thorsten Hauck, who graduated from the faculty of mechanical engineering and mechatronics at the Hochschule Karlsruhe in June 2009 with an overall mark of 1.3 and a distinction.

The Paris event to provide networking opportunities

On May 9 and 10, 2011, experts, academics, policymakers and professionals from the district heating and district cooling sectors will converge at the 35th biennial Euroheat & Power Congress and Exhibition, which will be held at the Maison de la Chimie, Paris, the organisers announced. Hosted by Euroheat & Power and the French Association, FEDENE, the theme of the congress is Reduce, Recycle and Replace: Doubling District Heating Now!

Elaborating on the theme, Euroheat & Power said that achieving the EU 2020 and 2050 energy goals required adopting a systematic approach based on three REs – reducing end-use, recycling energy, that otherwise would be wasted, and replacing fossil fuels.

It added that district heating and district cooling played a key role in such a concept, and that the congress was an important reminder of the benefits and the potential that district heating and cooling sector could offer as modern, sustainable energy solutions.

The event is expected to provide delegates with a platform for debating political demands, business models, customer value and marketing tools. In addition, the exhibition, technical tours and social events will provide extra networking opportunities, the organisers claim.

For more information, those interested can go to www.ehpcongress.org or http://www.euroheat.org/ or contact Sinéad Boyle, Communications Manager at communications@euroheat.org.

Company honoured for its Precedent high efficiency packaged gas/electric and cooling units

Trane has reported that for the fourth consecutive year, its Residential Solutions business has been recognised for innovation and excellence in product design by The Air Conditioning Heating & Refrigeration (ACHR) NEWS. The Trane Precedent high efficiency packaged gas/electric and cooling units received a Bronze Award in the HVAC light commercial equipment category in the magazine’s 7th annual Dealer Design Awards programme. An independent panel of 30 contractors acted as judges for the contest, which had 114 entries from different industry brands, Trane said.

“Trane has constantly sought input from contractors and dealers to improve the designs of its light commercial systems,” said Mike Ray, manager of light commercial development for Trane Residential Solutions. “The new high efficiency Precedent units are typically up to 30% lighter than similar products on the market today, and only slightly heavier than the standard efficiency units, making them ideal for replacement applications. The additional advantage is that an installer may not need to engage a structural engineer, which can save time and money.”

In addition to the weight advantage, the units deliver high- energy efficiency (up to 13 EER) by virtue of the patented Hybrid condensing coil, which makes for easy cleaning and better heat transfer, claimed Trane.

Peter Blanchflower, Marketing Leader for the Middle East, Africa, and India region for Trane, added: “The Precedent unit is also very popular among contractors, consultants and Trane distributors in the Middle East. It is used in residential, retail and commercial building applications.”

ICA co-sponsored research on heat exchanger coils reveals higher efficiency of small-tube copper coils

The International Copper Association (ICA) has recently announced its research results based on a Chinese small-diameter copper tube research consortium as well as published articles from Chinese OEMs. According to the results revealed in the announcement, air conditioning products that use heat exchanger coils made with small-diameter copper tubes use less material and are more economical and energy efficient than products made with conventional tubes. It also states that OEMs have started adopting small-tube copper to increase efficiency and lower the cost of air conditioning and refrigeration products. The consortium members include the ICA, two universities and at least five air conditioner OEMs.

The announcement elaborated that Wenson Zhang, Frank Gao and Kerry Song from ICA recently co-authored two articles on small tube copper with investigators from Shanghai Jiaotang University and two articles with researchers from Xi’an Jiaotang University, The School of Energy and Power Engineering, Xi’an Jiaotang University, Xi’an, in China. The four papers with ICA co-authors encompass key aspects of coil design and testing, including such subject as tube circuitry, fin design and refrigerant behaviour for heat exchangers coils made with small copper tubes, it added. The research consortium has reportedly been active in bringing the technology into production, and already products featuring small-tube copper have started appearing in the AC&R market.

According to the announcement, the results demonstrate the feasibility of making residential air conditioners with small diameter copper tubes and have set the stage for high-volume production of a new generation of air conditioning products.

The ICA has dubbed this technology “MicroGroove”, as it claims that there is an enhanced inner surface of the copper tubes.

Sustainable Technologies Demo Center focuses on green systems

The United Association (UA), a multi-craft union, representing plumbers, pipefitters, sprinkler fitters and HVACR service technicians throughout North America, will be showcasing its Sustainable Technologies Demonstration Training Trailer at the 2011 AHR Expo in Las Vegas, which will be held from January 31 to February 2.

According to UA, the trailer, designed to highlight sustainable systems that could be included in a USGBC LEED Green Building Certification System Platinum Rated Building, is fully functional and interactive. AHR Expo attendees can, therefore, experience the system’s installation and operation. Green HVACR, plumbing, fire prevention and energy systems are all featured in the Demo Center, UA added.

It has listed the following specific sustainable technologies that will be demonstrated within the trailer:

• Solar-energy production and storage
• Solar-water heating
• Radiant floor heating system
• Radiant ceiling heating and cooling system
• Geo-thermal heat pump system
• Heat pump water pre-heat system
• Air-purification system
• Desiccant low-humidity system
• Package terminal air conditioner – zone cooling system
• Energy-efficient appliances
• High-efficiency/low-flow plumbing fixtures and faucets – residential and commercial
• Grey-water system
• Rainwater catchment system
• Fire-prevention mist system
• Green building design display
• High-efficiency HVAC motor display

Since the time it was created, almost two years ago, the Demonstration Trailer has visited nearly three dozen states and trained over 2,000 professionals as part of UA’s Green Awareness Training Programme. The trailer has been utilised throughout North America by the UA and has been seen by over 40,000 individuals at various industry events.

Commenting on the trailer, Clay Stevens, President of International Exposition Company (IEC), said: “The UA Sustainable Technologies Demonstration Center will be a valuable addition to the Show. Visitors to AHR Expo will find a wealth of sustainable and energy efficient resources, both on the show floor and in the conference programme.” IEC produces and manages the AHR EXPO.

Stevens added that many exhibitors would be showcasing sustainable products and technologies, including, solar, geothermal, radiant heating and cooling. The event is expected to attract over 1,800 exhibitors from around the world, showcasing innovative new products to over 45,000 attendees and exhibitor personnel.

Highlights their efficacy at Chillventa through a lecture

According to its announcement, Eurammon, the European initiative for natural refrigerants, informed visitors about the environmentally friendly and energy-efficient properties of natural refrigerants and possible areas of application in refrigeration and air conditioning technology, at this year’s Chillventa via lecture presentations.

In the course of the Eurammon lectures titled, Applications with natural refrigerants – country situation and experiences, international experts illustrated the current situation in the use of natural refrigerants, both in the industry and in emerging and developing countries, Eurammon reported. According to it, the presentations demonstrated how the introduction and use of natural refrigerants is affected by general economic conditions and also by efficient initial and advanced training programmes.

The Chillventa presentations can be downloaded at the Eurammon homepage www.eurammon.com.

Claims HG34 CO2 T especially designed for CO2 applications

Touting its theme of “responsible refrigeration”, Bock presented environmentally-friendly refrigeration and air conditioning systems at Chillventa. Held from October 13 to 15 at Nuremberg, the event reportedly attracted a record number of 880 exhibitors and 29,000 visitors.

According to the announcement by Bock, it unveiled efficiency-optimised solutions for different application, such as HC-compressors, to be used with hydrocarbons and ATEX-compressors for use in explosion risk areas. With this as its focus, Bock claimed that it underlined the general theme of the Chillventa – energy efficiency and natural refrigerants.

Bock said that it also presented, for the first time, its new model HG34 CO2 T – a compressor especially meant for transcritical CO2 applications.

According to Bock, the compressor has been designed for higher efficiency of the motor, the valve system and gas flow. With the automatic adaptation of the capacity of the compressor to its current requirements, the system reduces energy consumption by 25% or more, claimed Bock.

Apart from this, another highlight of the its product range was its semi-hermetic efficiency optimised compressors of the Bock e-series, claimed the manufacturer.

In this context, Bock’s Manager and Chairman of the Chillventa Exhibition Committee, said: “The Chillventa 2010 was a great success for exhibitors around the world. We had the right kind of visitors at the booths and very qualified discussions. The atmosphere at the Chillventa is trendsetting for the industry.”

Flow Control magazine recognises Flowserve for product innovation

According to Flowserve, a provider of flow control products and services for the global infrastructure markets, it has been named a 2010 Flow Control Innovation Awards winner. Its ISC2 Series Cartridge Mechanical Seal was honoured in the containment award category.

The Flow Control Innovation Awards programme is an annual competition designed to honour the year’s most innovative fluid handling technologies, instituted by Flow Control magazine. Its editors nominated the ISC2 Series in June 2010. Readers were asked to vote for up to five of their favourite products in order to choose the winners, which were announced in the September 2010 issue of Flow Control.

Against the backdrop of winning the award, Tom Ferguson, President, Flow Solutions Group, said: “Flowserve is pleased to be recognised for ISC2 sealing technology, which is a truly innovative, universal seal design. The ISC2 seal is an example of our commitment to provide world-class services and solutions to our customers. We are extremely proud that the readers of Flow Control magazine have recognised us for this accomplishment.”

According to Flow Control magazine, readers were impressed with the ISC2 seal’s innovative features. Readers said:

“The thermal management features of this cartridge mechanical seal are particularly innovative.”

“The product has operated for more than one year in a very harsh environment without leakage.”

“The ability to dissipate the heat away from the seal faces should help increase overall seal life.”

Flowserve explained that ISC2 Series is a family of standard cartridge mechanical seals, designed to meet international standards and fit pump models from global manufacturers across a variety of industries and applications. It claimed that ISC2 seals feature patent-pending thermal management technology and are designed to tolerate short-term dry-run events without overheating, increasing reliability and preventing a common cause of leakage. Dual seals offer enhanced barrier fluid circulation for a high-flow rate and cool running, and single seals include a sizable throttle bushing to help protect against leaks, it added.

According to Flowserve, ISC2 seals are available in a wide range of corrosion-resistant alloys seal face materials, and secondary seals for chemical resistance in most chemical and industrial services. It is available in single pusher, single bellows, dual pusher or dual bellows designs, which enable users to select the optimal design based on the requirements of the application.

Radiant chilled ceilings allow energy-efficient cooling, claim architects

SAS International has announced supplying over 2,000m² of System 330 metal ceilings, incorporating a radiant chilled ceiling solution to Europe’s largest Audi showroom in West London. The ceilings were installed in the three showroom floors situated on the ground, mezzanine and first floors, reported SAS.

According to SAS, Radiant chilled ceilings were chosen not only to provide comfort cooling to large areas of the three dedicated car showroom floors but also because they require minimal maintenance, which is essential in a retail environment, as it can reduce downtime.

Speaking about the finer details of architecture, Sebastien Ricard, Associate Director at Wilkinson Eyre Architects, commented: “The showroom at the West London Audi Building is a dynamic double-height space, minimalist in its palette of colours and materials. The SAS metal ceiling system used follows the same minimalist design logic – flush with an integrated chilled panel system, tapered tiles follow the form of the space and the ceiling, creating a beautifully flat and light surface, allowing energy-efficient cooling.”