Record-breaking temperatures are now a summer tradition, which means a rise in demand for air-conditioning units. HVR looks at the latest advances in split systems.
SUMMER temperatures are now reaching such high levels that they set records almost every year. Eleven of the 12 hottest years on record have taken place since 1995.

Demand for commercial split systems traditionally peaks with hot weather. This is when those with immediate air-conditioning needs rush out to buy units.

But, when advising clients on air conditioning, contractors should be aware that advances in split
systems mean they are no longer the poor cousin of the air-conditioning family. The latest developments in split technology also mean end users get precise
temperature control, less noise and save on energy bills.

Credit crunch

With the credit crunch starting to bite, end users are not just looking for economical air conditioning offering a low capital cost, but are also demanding low running costs.

Graham Wright of Sanyo Airconditioners says that it is here that the new generation of
commercial split air-conditioning units come into their own.

He says: 'Sanyo's new Big PACi and Elite PACi range can offer a solution, with improved energy efficiency and coefficient of performance ratings up to 4.05.
'New efficiencies in split systems are because of innovations like Sanyo's SPW DC inverter's use of Advanced Digital Hybrid (ADH) technology, which offers energy-efficient climate control. This efficiency is achieved through matching the compressor speed to the cooling requirements.'
Immediately following start-up, the DC compressor operates at maximum power to provide almost instant cooling or heating.

But, as the desired air temperature is reached, a Pulse Width Module automatically adjusts the compressor's frequency to meet the cooling or heating requirements of the room, Wright says.
The latest DC motors now use powerful neodymium magnets, which are around 15-20 times stronger than the ferrite magnets used in conventional AC
compressors.

Wright says: 'This, combined with precise digital control, gives DC compressors - such as Sanyo's Elite PACi - an operation rate 15-20% higher than that of a
conventional ac compressor.

'When comparing the coefficient of performance (COP) of DC Inverter systems adopted by Sanyo with an equivalent fixed-speed system, the improved energy efficiency and lower running costs can easily be calculated. DC Inverters control the room temperature far more precisely, generally operating in part-load conditions.

'This is where COPs are considerably higher, thereby delivering
further substantial energy savings and ensuring that this new technology has an almost immediate payback.'

Split units now use the latest advancements in twin-rotary
compressor technology, where balanced, dual rotors revolve smoothly to provide vibration-free performance.

Wright says: 'This results in further energy-efficiency savings, with models such as Sanyo's
Elite PACi reaching COP levels of up to 4.05.
'Contractors will also be pleased to hear that new split developments also aid installation, making fitting the systems a quicker and easier job. For instance, new split systems, such as Sanyo's Big PACi, offer significant new flexibility for large commercial applications that require powerful performance, but don't want to waste valuable floor space.

Floor space

'The Big PACi has a 60% volume reduction, is 57% lighter, and takes up 59% less floor space than the previous generation of this product.'

New split systems also offer further flexibility for contractors and end users by offering a range of different indoor units for a wide range of applications. These include wall-mounted, ceiling- mounted, cassette and ducted units.

Wright says: 'Units such as Sanyo's Elite PACi offer end users increased flexibility, allowing the installation of four indoor units on multi-split systems. The Elite range includes five models - from the C186VEH to the C606VEH. These models range from 5.5kW to 14kW, with eight different styles of indoor units now available, including slim and square indoor units.

'Designed especially for light commercial projects - where efficiency and performance must not be compromised - the Elite PACi features a newly developed heat exchanger and outdoor fan, which means that COP ratings are some of the highest in the industry.

'Benefiting from increased performance and efficiency, the unit offers COP/energy efficiency ratio ratings of up to 4.1. This is a 25% increase on previous versions at rated conditions, and up
to 4.7 at UK conditions.

'The Elite PACi also benefits from low sound levels - from just 53dBA and 45dBA - in silent mode, and offers more immediate reaction to system heating and cooling demand from start-up.
'Contractors should also be aware that modern commercial split units are more environmentally conscious than traditional splits, a significant issue for many end-users.'

Reduced refrigerant

Systems, such as Sanyo's PACi units, can use the non-ozone- depleting R410A refrigerant.
Wright says: 'Opting for R410A results in smaller pipe sizes. The reduced refrigerant charge helps end users comply with the F-Gas Regulation, a real concern for clients at risk of
non-compliance.

'In 1961, Sanyo developed the world's first ductless split air conditioner. Split systems
definitely have a role to play in today's market.'