Mitsubishi Electric has launched a new air conditioning system that delivers levels of comfort normally associated with Chiller technology, whilst providing the flexibility and efficiencies of traditional VRF (Variable Refrigerant Flow).

The City Multi Hybrid VRF system operates without using refrigerant in occupied spaces, removing the need for leak detection equipment and allowing more properties to take advantage of manageable phased installation through the system’s modular two-pipe design.

Mitsubishi Electric has identified the need for a new approach to delivering comfortable heating and cooling to buildings as the industry comes to terms with the impact of F-Gas legislation and the move towards refrigerants with a low global warming (GWP) potential.

“There is a lot of legislation impacting on the use of energy in the built environment and at the same time, there is a drive to look for new refrigerants to mitigate any harm to the environment”, explains Sebastien Desmottes, Product Marketing Manager for the company.  

“This will have a major impact on the industry over the next 15 years but in the meantime, we have to deliver systems that provide customers with a comprehensive choice to help them reduce emissions and running costs whilst meeting current and future legislation.

“BS EN378 in particular will restrict the amount of refrigerant that can be used in occupied spaces and we believe there is now a growing market for this type of system”, adds Desmottes.  

At the heart of the new system is an HBC (Hybrid Branch Controller) box, connected to an outdoor City Multi unit via traditional refrigerant piping. Between the HBC and the indoor fan coils, the system uses water piping but is still able to deliver mild air-off temperatures and a great stability of temperature all year round, supplying Chiller levels of comfort to occupants. 

With no refrigerant in occupied spaces, Hybrid VRF also enables simple compliance with
BS EN378 and completely removes the need for leak detection in any occupied room. This technological benefit also means a low overall system refrigerant volume.