The February 2012 Issue of Climate Control Middle East
64
FEBRUARY 2012 www.climatecontrolme.com US$15 PUBLICATION LICENSED BY IMPZ Plus: Marketplace, Comings&Goings Features: Thermal shield paints p36 Reducing energy waste through insulation p30 D-Code: News Luvata launches ammonia series p7 GEA announces restructuring p14 Spotlight: Filtration selection - eliminating errors p60 Interview: Indian minister on tapping renewable energy opportunities p22 In-transit: We catch up with Edgar M Purvis from Emerson Climate Technologies p28 The role played by sealants, coatings and adhesives in improving buildings’ energy efficiency and indoor air quality p44 Gulfood Special inside!
Transcript
FEBRUARY 2012
www.climatecontrolme.com
US$15
PUBLICATIONLICENSED BY IMPZ
Plus: Marketplace, Comings&Goings
Features: Thermal shield paints p36Reducing energy waste through insulation p30
D-Code: News Luvata launches ammonia series p7GEA announces restructuring p14
Spotlight: Filtration selection - eliminating errors p60Interview: Indian minister on tapping renewable energy opportunities p22
Hopespringseternal?What are the implications for district cooling in view of recent
strides in the technology to tap sub-marine spring water?
In-transit: We catch up with Edgar M Purvis from Emerson Climate Technologies p28
The role played by sealants, coatings and adhesives in improving buildings’ energy efficiency and indoor air quality p44
materials and their applications, as well as the installation issues that might affect the system’s performance. Valeria Camerino reports.
36 Thermal shield paints get the green light
Are the new green building regulations being implemented across the Gulf countries encouraging building owners and developers to accelerate the adoption of these specialised paints?
PERSPECTIVES 48 Turbine inlet air cooling – a
smarter solution Emphasising that TIAC system has an edge
over gas turbines, Paul Saville explains the ramifications of how the technology works.
52 What's in the air A brief glance at the latest trends in cooling
technology and coil design show a more intensified focus on energy efficiency and comfort.
44 D-CoDE Seal of approval John Guthrie, Regional Sales Manager at
Carlisle HVAC, sheds some light on the role played by sealants, coatings and adhesives in improving buildings’ energy efficiency and indoor air quality.
60 SPoTLIGHT Filtration selection – eliminating
errors In Part 11 of the series on air filtration, Dr
Iyad Al-Attar explains the three vital stages of air filtration selection and argues that efficient air filtration is a concept whose time has come.
04 FRom THE EDIToR Lorenz's butterfly
HAPPENINGS06 The region14 At large20 Marketplace
INTERVIEWS 22 Fuelling the renewable energy
sector Dr Farooq Abdullah, the Union Minister
of New and Renewable Energy, India, speaks about the implications and challenges faced by the sector in emerging economies, and possible cooperation between India and the UAE.
24 Putting a damper on fire The first UAE Fire and Life Safety Code
of Practice brings into sharp focus fire safety in relation to the HVACR sector.
26 INSIGHT Meter matters Though sub-meters available in the UAE
match up to international standards, the implementation process of sub-metering itself comes with a few caveats.
28 IN-TRANSIT Local presence is the key Edgar M Purvis, Executive Vice President,
Emerson Climate Technologies, was in Dubai in mid-January. B Surendar caught up with him for a chat.
contents56
CoVER SToRYFresh water from the seaWhat are the implications of recent advancements in the technology to
explore and tap sub-marine spring water?
Vol. 7 No. 2 | FEBRUARY 2012
Gulfood 2012SpecialPage 7 Luvata in ammonia initiativePage 18 GEA, Bonduelle join hands for energy-efficiency drivePage 28 The value of HACCP-type algorithmPage 40 Photo-feature: Food Chain KSA
While the publishers have made every effort to ensure the accuracy of all information in this magazine, they will not be held responsible
for any errors therein.
LoRENZ'S
BUTTERFLY
For climatologists, 1972 will always be remembered as the
year when MIT meteorologist, Edward Lorenz presented his
paper, "Predictability: Does the Flap of a Butterfly's Wings in
Brazil Set Off a Tornado in Texas?" It was from this paper, the
result of his elaborate scientific experiments in the 1960s
that the oft-quoted Butterfly Effect emerged to describe Lorenz’s Chaos
Theory.
According to the theory, small differences in a dynamic system, such as
the atmosphere, could trigger vast and often unsuspected results.
When viewed through the filter of the Chaos Theory, the imagery of
the butterfly flapping its wings appears a perfect fit for refrigerants and
their purported impact on the atmosphere. At another level, the imagery
is pertinent in the context of the Middle East – regional action or inaction
has global implications. At a technical conference in late 2010, Yacoub Al
Matouq, Refrigeration Expert at the Kuwait National Ozone Committee,
called for a regional introspection on the use of refrigerants. Pointing to
the fact that the Middle East consumes several times more refrigerants a
year than the whole of Africa put together, he said the situation called for
a review.
The other issue is the types of refrigerants in use in the region. At
the same conference, Al Matouq had questioned the possibility of
using natural refrigerants, despite the questions being raised about the
potential toxicity and flammability characteristics of some of them.
Could natural refrigerants be used in a district cooling plant, where the
centralised regimen, backed by constant monitoring by trained personnel,
could negate concerns relating to the potential risks they pose to human
health and safety? Al Matouq asked. And what of certain blends, which
come with the promise of low GWP (global warming potential), say? Could
they be deployed in large central cooling plants, provided they are drop-in
refrigerants and, hence, are compatible with existing equipment in the
plants?
Lorenz’s Butterfly evokes the need for answers, and urgently at that.
B Surendar
editorFRoM ThE
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FEBRUARY 2012
www.climatecontrolme.com
US$15
Plus: Marketplace, Comings&Goings
Features: Thermal shield paints p36Reducing energy waste through insulation p30
D-Code: News Luvata launches ammonia series p7GEA announces restructuring p14
Spotlight: Filtration selection - eliminating errors p60Interview: Indian minister on tapping renewable energy opportunities p22
Hopespringseternal?What are the implications for district cooling in view of recent strides in the technology to tap sub-marine spring water?
In-transit: We catch up with Edgar M Purvis from Emerson Climate Technologies p28
The role played by sealants, coatings and adhesives in improving buildings’ energy efficiency and indoor air quality p44
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Schneider Electric and Microsoft Corporation have announced reinforcing their global alliance through a showcase of the latest data centre solutions at the
Microsoft Technology Center (MTC), Microsoft Gulf, Dubai Internet City. The collaboration forms part of MTC’s Alliance programme. APC by Schneider Electric’s demo centre at MTC, Dubai, integrates Microsoft’s enterprise management platforms and Schneider Electric’s DCPI (Data Centre Physical Infrastructure) management expertise to deliver a data centre with the lowest total cost of ownership (TCO), as well as the highest availability and efficiency from Schneider Electric and Microsoft solution architects, the announcement added.
In the context, Olivier Delepine, Vice President, Gulf, Schneider Electric IT Business, said: “The APC by Schneider Electric demo centre at MTC Dubai, is a collaborative state-of-the-art facility that connects customers with our joint technologies and world-class expertise, enabling them to envision, design and deploy solutions that precisely meet their individual needs. We are confident that the facility will add value to the experience of both our existing and new customers, particularly in light of the growing demand for customised energy-efficient products in the region.”
Commenting on the commercial performance of the partnership, Ranei Ayoub, Technical Manager, Microsoft
Technology Center, Dubai, added: “We have built a strong sales pipeline from the MTCs worldwide and a solid marketing relationship across the globe, that has resulted in everything from events to videos and articles. Our synergy with Schneider Electric at the MTC Dubai Demo Centre is an important step in the right direction that is anticipated to generate positive long-term outcomes for our potential clients in the region.”
happeningsThE REGIon
Dubai Electricity and Water Authority (DEWA) has announced that it has recorded an increase of 8,718 Megawatts (MW) in installed capacity for 2011
in comparison with 7,361 MW in 2010, with desalinated water production capacity increasing in 2011 to 400 million gallons per day (MIGD) in comparison with 330 MIGD in 2010.
“DEWA’s recent achievements accord with the directives of HH Sheikh Mohammed bin Rashid Al Maktoum, Vice President and Prime Minister of the UAE and Ruler of Dubai, to promote Dubai’s pioneering position as a global hub for finance, business and tourism, and to enhance its
infrastructure in all fields,” said HE Saeed Mohammed Al Tayer, MD and CEO of DEWA. “Power production has now reached 34,606 Gigawatts per hour (GWh) with an increase of 2.6% in comparison with 33,742 GWh in 2010. At DEWA, we focus on the availability, reliability and efficiency of our delivered electricity and water services. We review key performance indicators, compare them with best world practices, and work to improve and develop all operations to achieve excellence at all levels.”
He concluded that increasing power and water production aimed to meet customers’ needs and development projects in various economic and social sectors of Dubai.
DEWA ups productionRegisters installed capacity increase in power and water desalination plant
Schneider and Microsoft join handsClaims to demonstrate Schneider facilities and data centre technologies
Luvata’s Heat Transfer Solutions division, a manufacturer of finned pack heat exchangers involved in the design and production of air units for the refrigeration and air
conditioning sectors as well as air conditioning, refilling and maintenance equipment for the automotive industry, has announced the upcoming launch of its ammonia air units –NH3 range of unit coolers – for applications in industrial refrigeration. The first official introduction will be a presentation delivered in Moscow in February.
The company claimed that it has achieved a number of successes, including the Frigoglass for Coca-Cola bottle-coolers supplied for the Turin Winter games in
2006 and the Beijing Olympics in 2008, as well as winning the Customer First Award. The prize-giving ceremony reportedly took place
on November 25, 2011, during The Big 5 exhibition in Dubai. It further claimed that the most important of its recent achievements has been receiving the Sustainability Award given by its business partner, Frigoglass, with the award citation stating that Luvata had been recognised for its focus on new technologies that reduce energy consumption and improve efficiency, including its environmentally friendly HC & CO2 solutions, and for its global support of innovations in all key regions – Europe, Asia and America.
The sustainability award was given at the Suppliers’ Partnership Conference organised by Frigoglass, a player in the ice-cold merchandisers’ (beverage coolers’) market.
Upon accepting the award, Giovanni Simeoni, Executive Vice President and Deputy General Manager at Luvata, said: “Frigoglass is a particularly demanding
partner that makes the sustainability of its products and services a pillar of its competitiveness, together with the giants of beverage that deem ecology a ‘must’. This is actual confirmation of the results we have achieved together, and Luvata is grateful and encouraged in receiving this award.”
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The Kingdom of Saudi Arabia plans to derive 10% of its electrical supply from the sun by 2020, and eventually emerge as the world’s largest source of solar energy,
with the Saudi Government strategising for the country to be able to generate five gigawatts of solar energy by 2020, said an announcement by Saudi Energy, organiser of the international show for Electricity, Lighting, Power Generation, Water Technology, and HVAC for Saudi Arabia. It added that the Government expected that the Kingdom’s nascent solar industry would create up to 15,000 jobs, and was encouraging the development of solar farms and plants for processing of raw materials and assembly, and other related facilities.
Reportedly, investors have already pledged more than USD three billion to fund solar panel component plants in Al Madinah province’s Yanbu port and in Jubail city in the Eastern province. Furthermore, a USD 380 million polysilicon plant is to be built along the Gulf coast, and will initially be able to produce 3,350 metric tonnes of solar-grade polysilicon by 2014.
According to the announcement, the development of the Kingdom’s local solar power sector and nationwide efforts to efficiently generate, manage and distribute energy and other vital resources will be on focus at Saudi Energy 2012 – the 15th edition of the show, taking place from May 7 to 10 at the Riyadh International Convention & Exhibition Center
in Riyadh. The edition will provide a venue for networking and transactions covering all aspects of the energy space, from power generation and lighting to water technology, air conditioning and electric power, the organisers claimed.
Giving further details of the event, Saudi Energy revealed that it would reintroduce four of Saudi Arabia’s top energy-related shows – Saudi Elenex 2012: The 15th International Electrical Engineering, Power Generation & Distribution Exhibition, to be held under the patronage of the Ministry of Water and Electricity; Saudi Luminex 2012: The 12th International Lighting Equipment Show; Saudi Aircon 2012: The 13th International Exhibition on Air Conditioning Heating, Ventilation & Refrigeration; and Saudi Water Tech: The 9th International Exhibition for Water Technology.
Kingdom’s energy agenda on spotlight at 2012 Saudi Energy Exhibition
IMEC-Baymak BDR Thermea Group has announced that it is now officially an approved solar water heater vendor and supplier for Estidama in conformity with
all of Estidama’s solar water heating requirements and regulations. The company claimed that it has widened its product range by adding laser-welded solar collectors with six different models and two different sizes between 2.5 m2 to 2.0 m2, and that it has built the most modern laser-welded solar collector production line in 2009, with the annual production capacity of 375,000 m2 (150,000 pcs).
The announcement added that it has also established one of the biggest enamelled hot water tank production lines in recent years.
Baymak produce solar collectors, storage tanks of different sizes for solar and heating, high-efficient domestic and residential floor standing boilers, (pellet/log wood/coal/oil/gas), burners (raps oil/oil/LPG/gas), electrical and instant water heaters, expansion tanks and booster sets in two factories with a total closed area of 60,000 m2, located is Istanbul, Turkey.
Baymak adds laser-welded solar collector rangeNow an approved solar water heater supplier for Estidama
When was Crystal Lagoons Corp set up, and what is its scope?We started in 2008 with a project and created and developed technology that allows you to build and maintain in limited sizes of crystal clear water lagoons at very low cost. We have created the biggest swimming pool in the world; this is in Chile.
How many projects have you handled so far, and what kind of projects are you scouting for?We have done 180 projects in 45 countries. We are growing fast in the real estate sector, doing large lagoons. One and a half years ago, we started looking at applications in two areas:
Pre-treatment for RO1. Cooling for thermal power plants, data centres and, 2. eventually, district cooling.
This has been catching up very fast. We are working with major energy companies in Chile. We are creating large water bodies that will act as heat sinks. It works out to be less
expensive, as we don’t use much energy, because there are no fans involved.
What would qualify as a large lagoon?In our estimate, two hectares of space would qualify as a large lagoon. It will hold approximately 40,000 cubic metres of water.
Our model is similar to a cooling tower. We are talking about the same parameters here. And we can achieve the same temperature that a cooling tower can achieve. The lowest temperature a cooling tower can achieve is driven by the wet bulb temperature.
What are the cost and environmental factors involved?Our system is less expensive to operate. We use less water, because there is no drift, and therefore, the evaporation is less. This is because, all that we evaporate is the heat that comes out of the lagoon.
What kind of water do you use, and what about its
Lagoons and heat sinksChilean company says its closed circuit sustainable cooling system has implications for district cooling
Dubbed as a new industrial application, the Crystal Lagoons technology, developed by Chilean innovator Fernando Fischmann, CEO and founder of the
company, was presented at the World Future Energy Summit (WFES), held in Abu Dhabi from January 16 to 19. The technology for cooling industrial and thermal power plants, eliminates marine pollution from cooling-dependent industries, which is critical for the Arabian Gulf, Crystal Lagoons Corp claimed, and added that the technology achieved significant energy savings and a reduction in CO2 emissions, generating environmental benefits for mining, energy and industrial companies.
To date, Crystal Lagoons Corp reportedly has 19 projects under way in countries such as Peru, Finland, India, the United States and Saudi Arabia and Chile.
“The enormous interest is explained by the great need to
implement cooling systems, which are both economically profitable and of high environmental impact,” explained Joaquin Konow, Development Manager, Crystal Lagoons Corp. “Today, our projects go beyond just power plants, since the cooling problem transcends to other industries, such as thermo-solar plants, foundries and data centres.”
Speaking of the technology’s relevance to the world in general and the region in particular, the company pointed out that the majority of thermal generation processes use huge volumes of seawater for cooling, captured from the ocean and later returned to it at a considerably higher temperature, creating a major environmental problem by destroying marine life during the water suction process and causing severe disruption to the ecosystem when it returns hot water to the sea. In addition, during the process, valuable energy is dispersed into the environment, thus contributing to global
happeningsThE REGIon
Crystalising an ideaAt the exhibition, held concurrently with the World Future Energy Summit, Joaquin Konow, Development Manager, Crystal Lagoons Corp, spoke to B Surendar about the technology, benefits and application of the concept.
warming and climate change, thus severely damaging the biosphere. Juxtaposed against this, the sustainable cooling technology solves the problem, allowing the creation of large crystalline lagoons, which dissipate the heat through a closed cooling circuit for electricity generation plants, and the water is later returned to the lagoon that acts as a heat sink and at the same time as a reservoir of energy, the company claimed. In this way, cogeneration is allowed, since the previously wasted energy is used for convenient purposes. In addition, the process also makes it possible to enter the Carbon Credits market. The company further explained that the innovation enables thermoelectric plants to completely disconnect from the sea and other natural sources through a more efficient system than the traditional cooling towers, achieving lower installation costs and low consumption of make-up water and energy.
“As this is a closed system with high quality water, the lagoon increases its temperature up to a steady state, creating a reserve of thermal energy, which can then be used in a
number of processes, such as heating, residential and industrial hot water, thermal desalination, greenhouse heating, wood drying and industrial pre-heating, thus contributing to the economic development of the regions, where power stations with this sustainable cooling system are established,” emphasised Konow.
The implications are huge in the context of the UAE, where around 1,000 power stations operate, using more than 168 billion litres of water a day, Crystal Lagoons Corp pointed out. Explaining the collateral benefits, the company said that the warm crystalline lagoons can be used for recreational purposes, as the technology allows the creation of tourist attractions and improving of the landscape.
treatment?We can use any kind of water, be it brackish or seawater. We use seawater and brackish water directly. However, we haven’t used TSE (treated sewage effluent). Depending on the use of water, we use different treatments. We use PVC, stainless steel or alloys for the heat exchangers.
We always keep salinity levels at an acceptable level, because the volume of water we have in a lagoon is very large –10,000TR = 35 MW. If you are planning to cool 35MW, you will need at least 25 hectares of lagoons.
Can the lagoon go deeper?Yes, one solution is to go deeper. Similarly, we use spray system. When the wet bulb temperature is close to the lagoon temperature, we need to use spray to take out the heat.
What is the structure of the lagoon?We use special type of linings as a base.
In which case, you cannot exchange heat with the ground?
Yes, so we use spray.
What about the heat?The heat is removed from the lagoon through evaporation and conduction. We have a model where we simulate five times the life period of the lagoon, and we obtain temperature data that allows us to ascertain surface depth of the lagoon. One of the advantages of this is that we can
manage the water quality.
In your estimate, what is the capex?It will depend on the earthworks, which are different from area to area. Roughly speaking, for a standard project, it would work to USD 180,000 per hectare of lagoon. This cost will fetch a turnkey solution. It includes the earthworks, spray system, structure and lining and the circulation system. Most of the material can be procured locally.
What projects have you executed in the MENA region?We were to be working on a project in Dubai, which has stopped at present. In Sharm-el-Sheikh, in Egypt, we have completed a 12-hectare lagoon. And then, there is the Dead Sea Lagoon in Jordan, which is for amusement purposes. In Saudi Arabia, we have a project for cooling. Though the project itself is huge, the cooling part is small.
What are the other applications of the concept?The lagoon can be used for aesthetics and recreation and not just for cooling. It can also be used for industrial purposes. Taking advantage of the heat in the water, you can do district heating and desalination. We are taking advantage of thermal gradient to produce fresh water. We pass the hot water from the lagoon through pipe, which has a membrane in between, with cold water on the other side. Consequently, we can produce fresh water at a very low cost. As of now, there is no pilot project for desalination, but it is at the development stage.
The Big 5 Saudi 2012 – event previewNew dedicated Concrete Zone and a Facilities Management Zone in this year’s version
According to a report published by Ventures Middle East for The Big 5, entitled, 'New technologies utilised in
the GCC market', an estimated USD 108,156 million-worth of construction will take place in Saudi Arabia this year – an increase of over USD 7.1 million from two previous years. Taking place against this backdrop, from March 10 to 13 at the Jeddah Centre for Forums, The Big 5 Saudi 2012 will bring together more than 400 exhibitors from over 35 countries, having doubled in size since its launch in February 2011, with over 75% participants being international, said the organisers, dmg :: events Middle East. Held under the patronage of His Royal Highness Prince Mansour Bin Mutaib Bin Abdulaziz, the event will occupy two halls at the venue as well as outdoor space.
The organisers highlighted that this year’s version will include a new dedicated Concrete Zone and a Facilities Management Zone, which will provide platforms for the two important industry sectors to position their products and services in a tailored environment.
According to the organisers, underpinning the significance of the construction boom in the Kingdom, there will be a Concrete repair workshop on March 11, to help participants to be up-to-date with concrete repair and corrosion knowledge, in line with the most recent European Standards and Concrete Society Technical Reports, as well as providing the opportunity to enhance their ability to effectively mitigate the risk of
concrete damage to improve life-cycle costs and maintain structural integrity. Experts including Tim Thomas, Business Segment Manager, BASF Construction Chemicals, and Kevin
Davies, Senior Corrosion Engineer, CorroCiv, will be taking the participants through the paces.
In the light of the sharpening focus on sustainability, LEED Workshops will also be held on March 11, the organisers said. Endorsed by USGBC, it is set to identify the key components
of the LEED Rating System and discuss the overall LEED Certification process, in addition to descriptions of the intents and associated concepts of each LEED credit category, with explanations of regulations, recognitions and incentives related to each credit category. Mario Seneviratne, LEED Fellow, USGBC LEED Faculty, and Director of Green Technologies FZCO, will be the workshop facilitator.
Andy White, Event Director, The Big 5 Saudi, giving an overall perspective of the upcoming exhibition said: “The success of the inaugural event in 2011 blew us away. We saw more than 9,000 visitors attend and an impressive 306 exhibitors representing 28 countries. Having to double the size of space available in just the second year is a fantastic representation of the need for such an event in the Saudi market, and the long-term interest that the industry is investing there.... This year’s event is sure to be something of a barometer for the industry in Saudi Arabia, and we look forward to a busy and productive four days.”
According to the organisers of The Big 5 Saudi 2012, Emirates Steel is the Gold Sponsor and Al Arabiya is the official broadcasting partner.
happeningsThE REGIon
Note: The Big 5 Saudi 2012 will be held from March 10 to 13 at the Jeddah Centre for Forums and Events from 5pm to 10pm each day.
$1 trillion invested in construction projects in sAudi ArABiA
Register FREE of charge today on www.thebig5saudi.com/clim1
Under The Patronage Of His Royal Highness Prince Mansour Bin Mutaib Bin Abdulaziz.
10 – 13 March 2012www.thebig5saudi.com/clim1
Jeddah Centre for Forums & Events
the Big 5 saudi has doubled in size
400 exhibitors from 35 countriesdedicated concrete and Facilities Management zones An outdoor demonstration area for heavy construction machineryAccredited workshops and training courses
The most successful show in the Middle East brings you even more opportunities to source the construction products you need, with:
In an announcement, GEA Group said that effective from the beginning of 2012, the British companies, GEA Eurotek, GEA Grasso Holdings, GEA Refrigeration Components
(UK), and GEA Grenco will do business under the name, GEA Refrigeration UK, with the head office of the new company to be located in Sittingbourne, Kent, southeast England.
Claiming that that the customers will benefit from services on a one-stop basis, the announcement added that the new company will encompass the activities of the freezer segment, Grasso refrigeration systems and heat pumps, the sector-and customer-specific solutions of the former Grenco team, as well as refrigeration components and service.
According to GEA, the restructuring of its corporate profile has become necessary due to the GEA Group’s extensive growth in recent years, thanks to the acquisition of small companies, resulting in several companies, with a related
product portfolio, often doing business in one country. The company believes that it can now offer its customers a unified sales organisation, which focuses on the refrigeration competence of the company. The contact partners will remain the same in Sales, so that existing customers can turn to the contact persons with whom they are already familiar, GEA said.
In the context of the recent restructuring, Ken Reed, President, Sales, GEA Refrigeration, UK, said: “Merging these fields of activity strengthens our competence and simplifies major projects in which, for example, both central refrigeration facilities as well as freezers are required for the same project. Our customers will profit from services on a one-stop basis: beginning with planning, including installation and commissioning, and extending to preventive and restorative maintenance.”
GEA announces restructuring British company's refrigeration entities come under one umbrella
BSRIA, a consultancy, test, instruments and research organisation, has announced the launch of Weather Louvre Specification Guide. Explaining
that a weather louvre is a grille fixed over an opening, designed to let air through whilst restricting the entry of rain, it added that it is designed to perform both functions simultaneously and its suitability for a particular application is determined by how effectively it achieved these functions in combination. Subtleties of blade profile and pitch (distance between blades) were among the design features that affected performance, the announcement added.
BSRIA claimed that that the guide has been compiled to help system designers and specifiers of weather louvres to achieve optimum performance. It pointed out that failure to understand and clearly express the performance requirement at the design or procurement stage increased the risk of the product not being fit to function efficiently, resulting in unwanted water penetration or wasted energy,
both of which represented unnecessary cost. Improved efficiency of louvre design not only saved money, but could also assist with building regulations compliance and contribute to an improved energy rating for a building.
According to BSRIA, the guide explains:How to understand weather louvre requirements•How to minimise whole-life costs through system •design and louvre selectionWhich terms to use to ensure that performance data •are consistently stated when sourcing products from suppliersHow to minimise risks associated with overstated •performance claims
The announcement added that Weather Louvre Specification Guide (BG 36/2012) was available to order for £20 or £10 to BSRIA members at http://www.bsria.co.uk/goto/louvre-spec. Free pdf version is available to all. Alternatively, those interested could email the bookshop at [email protected] or call 01344 465529.
Weather Louvre Specification Guide launchedBSRIA claims the guide will help system designers and specifiers achieve optimum performance
The Siemens Building Technologies Division has added two new advanced fire detectors – Models OOH740 and OOHC740 – to its fire safety
product line Cerberus Pro. Both devices use proven ASAtechnology (Advanced Signal Analysis) to detect fires quickly and safely even in environments with challenging requirements, the company claimed.
In addition, one of the two models is able to monitor carbon monoxide concentrations in the room air, opening up entirely new applications for Cerberus Pro, it added.
Launched at the Dubai Intersec Trade Fair in January,
both detectors have two optical and two thermal sensors, allowing them to be employed as (multi-sensor) fire detectors and as heat detectors, the company revealed.
In addition, model OOHC740 is equipped with an integrated carbon monoxide sensor to provide early warning of dangerously high concentrations of this toxic gas, it said.
According to Siemens, since it is easy to adapt the new models to local requirements using parameter sets, customers are able to meet all their fire safety needs with one product family, Siemens pointed out.
Siemens launches fire detector product lineExhibits products at the Dubai Intersec Trade Fair
Green’ data centre infrastructure investments are expected to grow rapidly over the next four years, with the growth marking an increase in global revenue of
data centre infrastructures, jumping from USD 7.5 billion to USD 41.4 billion in 2015, according to a recent report coming from Pike Research, a business intelligence and research firm. The report goes on to reveal that these new ‘green’ data centre projects are expected to capture 28% of the total global market share of data centres. Against this backdrop, Tripp Lite, a manufacturer of power protection equipment, has announced that it is looking to tap into the potential opportunities offered by the IT segment by announcing its new eco-friendly product line. The company released the SU8000RT3UG, SU10KRT3UHV and SU10000RT3UG – three new ‘green’ UPS systems.
Tripp Lite claims that the UPS systems have a full load efficiency rating of 99%, allowing energy savings and cooler operation by limiting power consumption to less than two Watts. It adds that users of the three new models will be protected from the damaging effects of black-outs, brown-outs and transient power surges, while supporting the move
towards ‘green energy savings’ with a built-in eco-mode function that automatically shuts off unused computer accessories like printers or multi-media speakers.
According to Tripp Lite, while the newly launched products have been designed to answer the challenges of the Middle East region’s move to improve power connectivity and consumption, it is also committed to ‘green’ initiatives and is compliant with the European Union’s Waste Electrical and Electronic Equipment directive. It has also partnered with Sims Recycling Solutions, claimed to be the world’s largest electronic/electrical equipment recovery and recycling company.
“Businesses today have driven the demand for high efficiency data centres, reflecting a growing preference towards the use of more eco-friendly products and solutions across various industry verticals,” said Vipin Sharma, Tripp Lite’s Vice President of Middle East, Africa and CIS Sales. “We understand this demand and are addressing it with the launch of our new line of eco-friendly products that will help cut down on energy costs, yet still provide superior protection for highly sensitive equipment.”
Tripp Lite launches ‘green’ UPS systemsSays it is looking to capture market by leveraging its strategic eco-friendly product line
A lluding to its 2011 Sustainability Progress Report, DuPont has announced that its environmental footprint has continued to shrink. The company highlighted
the following statistics as evidence to back up its claim: It delivered a 75% decrease in greenhouse gas emissions and a six per cent reduction in absolute energy use since 1990, while increasing production by 40% during that same period. It is increasingly focused on helping businesses integrate sustainability as a growth strategy, which is reflected by an annual customer survey that shows an increased demand for products with environmental benefits.
According to DuPont, an annual survey of more than 3,500 customers, conducted in August 2011, showed they want safer materials, a reduction in water and energy use in manufacturing and improved environmental profiles throughout the lifetime of their products. Customers, evidently, indicated a seven per cent increase in green job creation from the design and manufacturing of products with environmental benefits, while an overall 28% said their business saw an increase in new green jobs over 2010, and two-thirds believe that environmental benefits in products would continue to have a positive impact on job creation over the next five years.
The company claimed that in 2010, it generated revenues of USD 1.6 billion from products that helped its customers and their consumers reduce greenhouse gas emissions, with much of the increase coming from revenue growth in areas like photovoltaics and from engineering polymers used in light-weighting of vehicles. DuPont estimates that these products have reduced greenhouse gas emissions throughout the supply chain by more than 6.5 million metric tonnes between 2007 and 2010. Since 1990, its own energy reduction has declined by six per cent, resulting in a USD 6 billion savings in energy purchases, and enabled the company to exceed its 2010 goal to hold total energy use flat. It said that its new avowed goal is to reduce non-renewable energy use by 10% per dollar of price adjusted revenue by 2020.
DuPont’s sustainability goals are reportedly tied to business growth in areas of agriculture and nutrition, safety and protection, materials, electronics and communications and energy.
“While reducing our footprint continues to be important, our growing focus is on how to use DuPont science and innovation to bring new products to the marketplace that improve efficiencies and sustainability throughout the entire value chain,” said Vice President and Chief Sustainability
Officer, Linda J Fisher. “We see DuPont having an expanded role to provide sustainable solutions to our customers around the world as population dramatically increases.”
DuPont reports shrinking environmental footprint Claims that annual survey shows growing demand for environmental products and green job creation
More than 625,000 TR of installed
capacity
Do not hesitate to contact them at: HAMON Cooling Tower Company (FZCO) Dubai Airport Free Zone Authority - PO Box: 293647Tel +971 4 609 16 7 Fax +971 4 609 16 76 [email protected] www.hamon.com
HAMON, leading company in field erected cooling systems, with over 100 years experience in Wet Cooling, strengthens its presence in the region. Our team in Dubai, particularly specialized in district cooling & seawater cooling, will offer you the experience of a worldwide group and their proximity for all your cooling tower projects.
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The Bonduelle Group, suppliers of canned vegetables, deep-frozen vegetables, and processed salads, has modernised and expanded the cold-storage facilities
at its location in Estrées, close to Péronne, France, and has awarded the contract for upgrading the old plant, as well as for the new high-bay storage facility to GEA Refrigeration Technologies, said a communiqué from GEA.
Giving details of the contract, the communiqué said that in the refrigeration plant of the existing Bonduelle facilities, the company has replaced the previous refrigerant R22 (known for its great ozone depletion potential) with the natural alternative, ammonia (R717). At the same time, Bonduelle has constructed a new 35-metre high cold-storage facility that offers around 24,000 pallet storage slots equipped with advanced refrigeration technology. Bonduelle has awarded GEA Refrigeration France with the refrigeration contracts, with the total value amounting to almost two million Euros.
According to GEA, it was possible to achieve energy savings with the existing refrigeration plant alone at Bonduelle, because, as part of the replacement of R22 with ammonia, it not only converted the refrigeration systems during uninterrupted operation, but also equipped the old air coolers with frequency inverters. Consequently, the speed of the fans on the cooling units is now controlled according to actual cooling requirements, with the new measures resulting in efficiency improvement of around 25%, GEA claimed.
Explaining the refrigeration technology it implemented for the new, fully automatic high-bay cold-storage facilities, GEA
happeningsAT LARGE
GEA and Bonduelle join hands for energy efficiency Gets Bonduelle Group’s refrigeration contracts in France
The new deep-freeze facility at Bonduelle offers capacity for 24,000 pallets.
The key components of the Bonduelle cold-storage plant are two ammonia refrigeration systems from GEA Refrigeration France, with total cooling duty of 2,100 kW.
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GEA Goedhart air coolers, installed under the ceiling, which, according to the company, stimulate the thermo-syphon effect, assure homogeneous temperature distribution and enable an energy-saving air-inlet temperature. These coolers are also provided with high efficient coils and optimised circuiting. (Picture: GEA)
reportedly had even better efficiency gains. With its capacity of 24,000 storage slots, the pallet facility operates with cooling duty of a mere 2,100 kW – provided by two screw type GEA YR-Y2655S-28 ammonia refrigeration units that provide temperatures of –28°C, GEA claimed. These units support five GEA Goedhardt air coolers from the segment GEA Heat Exchangers, it revealed, and explained that the air coolers, designed to stimulate the thermo-syphon effect, blow cold air coming from the ceiling downwards and assure effective penetration of the cold-storage unit, with a volume of about 150,000 m³.
According to GEA, the especially dedicated air-flow system induces a “refrigeration lake”, which ensures that the plant reliably maintains the required storage temperature of –20°C. It pointed out that it was essential to provide air movement with minimal flow speed, while preventing hotspots. The implemented solution assures the required temperature with an air-outlet temperature of only –25°C, it said, and added that frequency inverters on the fans and speed-controlled screw compressors ensured demand-driven operations and great efficiency in partial-load operating zones.
marketplaceThis section contains regional and international products information
Claiming that they are designed for clean air applications requiring low sound levels, Greenheck,
manufacturer and distributer of air movement and control equipment, has announced the introduction of its Models SP and CSP centrifugal ceiling and cabinet exhaust fans. The company added that the products are featured in an updated 24-page catalogue.
According to Greenheck, the AMCA-certified and Energy Star-rated fan models are highlighted in the catalogue, along with new grilles and lighted grille lens options. The company also revealed that the catalogue included standard construction features, detailed configurations, control, filters and discharge accessories’ information and typical specifications.
Model SP and CSP exhaust fans
Greenheck
Claiming that they come with extra cooling capacities to supply cool air at lower temperatures and less humidity than any other desert coolers, Al Dour Desert
Freon Air-Condition, a Saudi-based company, has introduced two new models – DDC and DDFA – all-year-round cooling and heating units with continues humidification. According to the manufacturer, the units are equipped with evaporative air coolers with additional refrigeration chilled water cooling systems for the summer, as also units designed with extra
features to provide heating system and humidification in winter.Highlighting the finer points, Al Dour says that the units are
designed using painted G90 galvanised heavy-gauges steel with double wall insulation panels for maximum strength and durability. In addition, the units are furnished with aluminium washable air filters and auto water drain systems, eliminating dust and salty contaminated water, thus significantly reducing routine cleaning and maintenance.
The manufacturer lists other product features and advantages:Non-submersible IP54 in-line water pumps externally •installed to the water tank, eliminating electrical hazards compared to submersible pumps in conventional unitsDual dust elimination systems: designed for continuous •circulation of water over evaporative cells during unit stop, providing dust-free air, and offering filtration of outdoor air entering the room through the unit in compensation to those amounts evacuated by exhaust fanLow limit water level controller to switch off all pumps •and motors in case of low water levelsAnti recycling compressor start: equipped with five- •minute auto-time delay preventing frequencies of ON & OFF compressor cyclingApplicable to all types of buildings like, residential villas, •schools shops, showrooms, mosques, factories, hospitals, restaurants, festival halls and sport centresThe ideal alternative for DX A/C units, saving expensive •initial installation and operation costsEquipped with room thermostat similar to central •package air conditioning units, providing comfortable room temperature – Internal Air Quality (IAQ) – saving on water consumption and electricity bills
Al Dour adds that it gives one year warranty for all parts.
DDC Model and DDFA ModelAl Dour Desert Freon Air-Condition
comings&goingsPaul SavilleSaville Energy Consultancy, LLC
P aul Saville is Managing Director of Saville Energy Consultancy, LLC specialising in District Cooling and Turbine Inlet Air Cooling (TIAC) consultancy and
engineering services.His previous assignment was seconded as Technical Director
to Stellar Group, LLC for Mas Energy, LLC – one of Stellar’s owners in the Middle East and North Africa region.
Paul has a bachelor’s degree in Mechanical Engineering, is a Chartered Mechanical Engineer and is certified as a Eur. Ing. with FEANI, and has more than thirty years of global experience in the TIAC, district energy, refrigeration and petrochemical industries.
Fuelling the renewable energy sectorDr Farooq Abdullah, the Union Minister of New and Renewable Energy, India, was in Abu Dhabi to attend the WFES. Here, he speaks about a wide range of issues on the subject, including implications and challenges faced by the sector in emerging economies, and possible cooperation between India and the UAE.
How important are renewable energy and clean technologies to emerging markets, such as India?The challenge facing the world today is to meet its increasingly large energy needs, while minimising the damage to the environment. This is why, while striving to bridge its energy deficit, the world must necessarily increase the share of clean, sustainable, new and renewable energy sources. Therefore, we, in India, look at renewable energy and clean technologies as vehicles of sustainable development. We are now on the verge of a second transition as far as renewables are concerned. We have passed through the phase of research, development and small-scale deployments, and now have an installed base of over 22,000 MW renewable based capacity, which is around 11% of India’s total power generation capacity. We have added over 11 GW capacity in the last five years, and plan for another 30 GW in the next five years.
Is it realistic to expect renewable energy to meet the growing energy needs of emerging economies in the next 10 to 15 years?I am confident that renewable energy is an idea whose time has come. There is an unmistakable shift from the use of conventional energy to renewable sources of energy. While 10 years may
be an ambitious timeframe to aim for a total transformation, the role of renewables will continue to increase, not only in India, but also in the entire world. Whether or not renewable energy completely replaces fossil fuel, we must all work together to develop renewable energy to its fullest potential.
What are the initiatives that India is undertaking to promote the growth of
this sector?India is, perhaps, the only country in the world to have an exclusive ministry devoted
to the growth and development of renewable energies. We stand among the top five countries of the world in terms of renewable energy capacity. We have an installed base of over 22 GW, which is around 11% of our total power generation capacity, and contributes over five per cent in the electricity mix. This represents an almost 400% increase in the past five years alone.
Our most recent initiative – The
Whether or not renewable energy completely replaces fossil fuel, we must all work together to develop renewable energy to its fullest potential
Jawaharlal Nehru National Solar Mission (JNNSM) envisages a capacity addition of 20,000 MW of grid solar power by 2022. A similar ambitious mission – the National Bio-Energy Mission – aims to tap the over 15 GW bio-energy potential in the country. Our policy framework – generation-based incentives for wind power projects, solar- specific Renewable Purchase Obligations, Tradable Renewable Energy Certificates – is extremely renewable-friendly and supportive.
What are the areas where you see renewable energy being an easy replacement for traditional sources?Renewable energy has already created its space in grid- connected power generation. Wind and small hydro are commercially viable options. We are working towards grid-parity in solar. However, what is most amazing is the capacity of decentralised renewable applications to usher in energy access for all, including the most disadvantaged and the remotest of our habitations. In its decentralised or standalone version, renewable energy is the most appropriate, scalable and optimal solution for providing power to thousands of remote and hilly villages and hamlets. By providing energy access to the most disadvantaged and remote communities, it becomes one the biggest drivers of inclusive growth.
How does India’s National Solar Mission fare, compared to other emerging economies?The Solar Mission aims at adding 20,000 MW solar power capacity by 2022. The Phase I of the Mission is now under implementation. In this year
alone, 186 MW of grid-connected solar power projects have been commissioned and another 300 MW are likely to be commissioned by March 2012. We have succeeded in cutting solar power costs by allotting projects through a tight international auction process.
What are the biggest challenges in the growth of renewable energy in India? Do you see these as being unique to India or as common challenges to the global community?Renewable energy has the inherent advantage of greater resource flexibility of a distributed energy system, but is also currently more costly than centralised power. Hence, there is continuous need to innovate to increase efficiencies and bring down costs. The challenge before us in the renewable energy sector, generally and, particularly in India, is to reduce the per-unit cost of renewable energy. Besides, the power generated through renewable energy is usually intermittent and sometimes difficult to predict. There are also other challenges like those related to technology and financing. Like many other countries, India too is dealing with these challenges through encouraging economies of scale, easy transfer of technology and indigenous research and development.
I see the role of governments as active facilitators who will work to create an enabling ecosystem for promoting newer business models, technical as well as market innovations for promoting basic and applied research.
India has an established presence in R&D in industries, such as ICT. What contribution will India be making to innovation in the renewables and clean-tech industry in the foreseeable future?India has a strong base in R&D in all areas of renewable energy. We see technology-led R&D as a strong area for innovation and growth, for instance, managing the complexity of variable power generation through computer-enabled power networks, or smart grids. The efficiencies of smart grid management coupled with the sustainability of renewable energy could be a win-win combination. India as the leading light of the IT world would have a natural advantage in this.
What are your expectations from your participation at WFES?The World Future Energy Summit is now a key event in the world sustainable energy calendar. It is an important effort to bring together governments, businesses and thinkers to jointly advance the cause of a cleaner and more sustainable world for all of us. It will provide a unique opportunity for Indian investors, manufacturers and developers to interact with leading lights, both from the private and public sectors.
What do you think the Middle East, and in particular, Abu Dhabi, offers India in terms of opportunities in renewable energy and energy efficiency?Renewable Energy is the future of mankind and the key to sustainable development. I am delighted to note that the UAE, despite its abundant hydrocarbon resources, has taken the initiative in promoting renewable energy, and in hosting the headquarters of the International Renewable Energy Agency (IRENA). We, in India, see tremendous opportunity in cooperation, not only via the medium of IRENA, but also at the bilateral level. India shall be happy to leverage its resources to help in capacity-building and resource assessment. We have considerable experience in development of large grid-connected projects as well as smaller decentralised energy-access initiatives. We are more than happy to assist in all of these activities.
By providing energy access to the most disadvantaged and remote communities, it becomes one the biggest drivers of inclusive growth
Why and how much importance is being given to fire safety in the UAE?Fire hazards within buildings are still a global concern, and especially so in the UAE, where a high number of fires occur annually. These fires are caused essentially by accidental human factors (60%) and technical failures (40%). They result in deaths, injuries and/or damages. For this reason, preventive safety against fire hazards and disasters has become a major strategic objective in the Dubai Civil Defence strategic plan 2009-2015. The UAE Civil Defence authorities are taking the right action by providing better services to the population, designers and builders and contractors.
Major General Rashid Thani Al Matrooshi, The Director of Dubai Civil Defence and Acting Commander-in-Chief of the UAE Civil Defence, is the key leader of the development of fire safety in the UAE. Four examples can illustrate this major development during the past few years:
Increase in the number of •fire stations to attend to the safety of all the new project developments, mainly in Dubai and Abu DhabiThe release of the First •UAE Fire and Life Safety Code of Practice in July 2011The development of •
E-Engineering services to ease and clarify the project approval processThe 24x7 Direct •Alarm System for Dubai, connecting all private buildings and establishments to the new Command Control Center for real-time monitoring of life and safety alarmsThe correct implementation
of the new Code is a key issue in order to upgrade the fire safety of buildings in the UAE.
Could you explain the finer points of the Code? The UAE has done a great job by releasing a comprehensive UAE Fire and Life Safety Code of Practice, which addresses the main fire protection issues, in order to give a
tangible framework for all consultants and contractors in the UAE. It is going to be continuously revised through the Civil Defence Fire Code Council, taking into account feedback from contractors and consultants.
The code is mainly based on American standards. But it is also opening the doors to European standards for some systems, so as to allow the best safety solutions in buildings. For example, fire dampers may be ushered in from Europe, especially for sensitive buildings like healthcare facilities, hotels, buildings of educational institutions and other buildings where habitable height exceeds 23 metres. These are motorised and ensure that there is no smoke
leakage and no heat transfer, as required by the new Fire code.
The ideal situation would be a standardised code for the GCC, bringing within its ambit all building contractors, consultants and suppliers.
To what extent do building owners adhere to safety standards?A lot of buildings in the UAE face safety issues due to improper installation, wrong application of products and inconsiderate suppliers supplying products that do not meet with the specifications. There are also instances of improper installation of curtain fire dampers inside the wall. We have witnessed gaps filled with mineral wool material on-site between the sleeves and the fire damper, whereas, there should be no gaps. It’s not the fire damper which will ensure safety, but its proper installation.
A glaring example of wrong application of products can be seen where contractors install motorised fire and smoke dampers (MFSD) rather than motorised smoke dampers (MSD). While the first one is a fire damper, the second one is a smoke extract damper. Consequently, there is a big safety issue in using a MSFD instead of a MSD, as the MSFD will close with
the interview
Putting a damper on fireThe first UAE Fire and Life Safety Code of Practice, which came into place in July 2011, brings into sharp focus fire safety in relation to the HVACR sector. Alexandre Benoit of Aldes Middle East throws light on the Code and elucidates finer technical points in an interview with Naveena Sadasivam.
February 2012 www.climatecontrolme.com 25
a temperature above 72°C, preventing the extraction of smoke as intended by the designer. Here, it is worth noting that it has been specified in the UAE Fire and Life Safety Code to educate the UAE market to prevent this hazard: A clause in the Code states: A combination fire and smoke damper is a fire damper and cannot be used as a smoke damper.
What more needs to be done?A few things that will help the cause are:
A careful project approval •procedureFinal site inspection•Organising an efficient •training programme from the authorities or fire protection practitioners for consultants and contractors to make them aware of all the requirements from the new UAE Fire and Life Safety Code point of view.
Is the available equipment up to satisfactory level?Curtain fire dampers are from a very old technology and shall therefore be prohibited from any building as they are neither airtight nor motorised, and allow heat transfers. Their level of safety no longer
meets the real need for a safe compartmentation. In the UK, for example, the curtain fire dampers as per BS standards are being replaced by European-type fire dampers, following requirements of EN 1366-2.
What are the recent technological developments in the field of equipment?Usually, in fire protection, the main developments follow new regulations or standards. Consequently, the recent technological developments in fire dampers concern mainly European products, which follow the new European standards – EN 1366-2 – for testing requirements, and EN 13501-3 for the classification.
How are the O&M aspects treated?Building maintenance is an area that is regularly neglected. That’s why MEP contractors need to pay attention to the choice of equipment to ease the work of maintenance companies, for instance, by selecting motorised fire dampers rather than curtain fire dampers.
What are the different HVACR sources of noise?Here, I list the major sources:
• Outdoor noise:This is noise which is
transmitted though openings from the outdoor environment into the building.
• Radiated noise:This is noise which is
transmitted/radiated through the casing of a fan, VAV box, etc.
• Vibration noise:This is noise which is
transmitted through the vibrations of a rotating machine.
• Ductborne noise:This is transmitted along
the ductwork, both upstream and downstream of a fan.
• Breakout noise:This is noise transmitted
through a barrier, often a fan casing or ductwork, and any indirect noise path which tends to devalue noise control measures used to reduce the transmission along the more obvious paths.
• Noise outlet:This is generated usually
from a grille or a diffuser or any opening acting as a terminal element on either an extract or a supply system.
Have design practices improved?
Design practices are increasingly taking into account the noise criteria level (NC level) in the UAE market. Consequently, we can say that they are paying attention to the comfort level in connection with noise.
Meter mattersThough sub-meters available in the UAE match up to international standards, the implementation process of sub-metering itself comes with a few caveats, says Ramesh Ramadurai, CFO and COO of Empower, in an interview with Naveena Sadasivam.
The backgroundThe concept of utility sub-metering that allows end-users to be billed for individual measured utility usage is not new. Even sub-metering of district cooling, which was perceived to be relatively new, has gained ground in the UAE, though it is evolving into a more standardised system that is fair to all stakeholders.
In an energy-hungry world, where conservation is the key and the onus is increasingly perceived to be on the consumer, sub-metering not only means ascertaining, quantifying and billing individual consumption of district cooling – or for that matter any form of utility that uses energy and resources – but it also means increasing efficiency, lowering consumption and encouraging frugality. Therefore, sub-metering has begun to play a crucial role in the measurement and billing of consumption. With new software tools available to
more accurately keep tabs on individual consumption, sub-metering has become even more cutting-edge. Ramesh Ramadurai, CFO and COO of EMPOWER, the district cooling utility provider, answers a few vital questions on the subject.
Are you happy with the quality of sub-meters in the
market?The sub-meters available in the UAE are comparable to the ones used worldwide. In terms of quality and functionality, they are just as good and fit for the purpose.
What, in your opinion, needs improvement? Do you have issues with reliability and accuracy of
sub-meters?If installed and commissioned properly, sub-meters are reliable and accurate. Regular inspection of sub-meters will help maintain the overall integrity of the sub-metering solution.
Could you give specific examples where you think more needs to be done?
I would like to highlight the following issues that need to be tackled while providing a sub-metering solution:
Lack of coordination •between the building contractor and the sub-metering system integrator Lack of clarity in the scope •of works between the building contractor and the sub-metering system integratorDifficulty in assigning •responsibilities due to lack of clarity in scope of works between the building contractor and the sub-metering system integratorIssues with delay/•availability of appropriate services from the telecom serviceRequirement to provide •services before completion of proper installation and commissioning of sub-metering solution
Do you think installation practices of sub-meters are up to the mark?It is important to closely monitor, supervise and coordinate the installation activity of sub-meters. If not attended to, the contractor/system integrator may not properly install sub-meters or may not verify the accuracy of the data provided for sub-meters. This may result in wrong billing and may lead to customer complaints and, consequently, customer dissatisfaction.
What role does the external environment, like ambient conditions, sandstorms and humidity play on sub-meters?Sub-meters are installed inside buildings, and are generally unaffected by the external environmental conditions.
Have you received any complaints from end-users? If so, what are the issues?
Complaints from customers are generally for high/abnormal/ average consumption readings in cases of meter tampering or meter failure. Such complaints can be proactively investigated and resolved by regular monitoring of meter readings and by examining physical condition of the meters.
Is tampering of sub-meters an issue?Yes, tampering of sub-meters is an issue, and such actions can be discouraged by levying penalties or fines. We have observed that a high fine for tampering acts as a deterrent.
What new projects, if any, do you have in the region?Empower has been actively promoting the concept of sub-metering. Developers and end-users are now more aware of the benefits of sub-metering and prefer sub-metering solutions for their buildings/units.
Empower has witnessed an increasing demand for sub-metering solutions in the new upcoming developments, and is currently installing sub-metering solutions in various buildings located in Business Bay, DIFC, and IMPZ projects. Even building owners who had not planned for sub-metering initially are approaching us for sub-metering solutions in their projects.
Are there any new initiatives or developments taking place at Empower?We continuously work towards increasing customer awareness in utilising energy resources responsibly, and have recently initiated a programme to educate customers and provide them with useful tips regarding better utilisation and conservation of energy, and effectively utilising the district cooling services.
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End-users are concerned about energy efficiency. But reliability is a key requirement for them and, perhaps, tops the list of needs. What steps have you taken to ensure your systems meet the reliability standards of end-users?It’s a requirement everywhere. What makes it unique is the extreme temperature. It is dangerous for any manufacturer to assume that what is applicable in the US can be applied in the Middle East. It is important to recognise that every region is unique.
As a global corporation, we are committed to investing in infrastructure (to manufacture to the Middle East’s specifications) than to import from elsewhere.
While we have been in the Middle East for a long time, we still continue to learn to design and optimise. It’s not enough
to design compressors but to work with OEMs and understand how the compressors operate. That way, we can optimise the systems.
We have to commit to training, how to install, how to diagnose problems and have a complete loop. It is important to understand the issues in a particular part of the world. It’s about local presence and to understand the product.
What are the recent, specific initiatives you have taken?Regarding recent initiative, when you look at scroll, you are going to see scroll being applied for air conditioning and refrigeration. Scroll is very adaptable for high-ambient operations. In terms of energy efficiency, comfort and reliability, you will see modulation technology. So development of modulation technology is the way forward.
We recognise that local presence is important. In the last five years, we have invested in more people and are learning from our customers.
In the case of Emerson Climate Technologies, a little over half of our business is in the US. Our strategy is that in the next two to three years, over half the business will be outside the US. We see Latin America and the Middle East as important areas to grow our business. We are well invested in China and India. But we want to grow much higher in
the Middle East. The Middle East is a very sophisticated market. If you look at Emerson Climate Technologies, in five years from now, the Middle East will become a bigger part of what we do.
Refrigerants remain a key area of concern. The search is always on to identify the best refrigerants for low-, medium- and high-temperature applications. What has been your approach?We believe in teaming up with customers, contractors and key influencers to work on refrigerants of the future. The Middle East is not different when you look at the issue of
in-transit
'Local presence is key'Edgar M Purvis, Executive Vice President, Emerson Climate Technologies, was in Dubai in mid-January. B Surendar caught up with him for a chat…
Edgar M PurvisThe Middle East is a very sophisticated market. If you look at Emerson Climate Technologies, in five years from now, the Middle East will become a bigger part of what we do
refrigerants. There is tremendous flux on what’s going to happen in terms of regulations. All transitions have been challenging.
While we are working with systems that use R404A, R407C, CO2 and propane, owing to the geographical scope, we have to be prepared to support HCFC solutions and natural refrigerants. HCFCs are going to be around for a long time. We are the largest manufacturer of compressors in the world. Our position in the market does not allow us to say that we will supply only for certain refrigerants.
But don’t you think there is a need for conscience-based decisions? In the recent Climate Change Conference in Durban, there was scant progress made, also because the world does not seem to be able to agree on where to draw the line on commercial interests.At the same time, we are working on other refrigerants. If you look at the number of laboratories we have working on refrigerants globally, it is three times more than before. For instance, there is the propane lab in India. And then we have labs in China and in Sidney (in the US). We recognise we have to be competitive.
2012 is a key year for EU decision-makers regarding the position of HFCs in Europe. Ultimately, EU will take a decision on how to regulate HFCs. I hope there is scope for HFCs in EU still. You will see options in Europe and in the US, as well. China and India will also move from HCFCs. In Europe, it is a conscience-based decision. The answers by region will vary. What China, India and the US decide to do will be a little different from one another.
Is their approach right from an environmental perspective? Should not they aim for a consensus?Ideally, I would have liked Durban to have reached a consensus on Europe, the US, India and China. But I am not surprised by the decisions taken, because economies like China and India are dealing with the realities of growth in their marketplace. Having travelled to China and India, I am hopeful that
whether they adopt a cohesive strategy or not, these countries will be moving towards a solution.
Our approach at Emerson has been education. It has been about working with key influencers and OEMs on finding a practical domain for refrigerants. We have been active since the 1980s. We have played that role in Europe, and we want to be active in the Middle East and India, as well. Being active means talking to regulators on options and jointly testing with OEMs and providing information on the technical options available. We are fortunate that we are in a unique position, because we have done it several times now.
What game-changing solutions do you have in cold chain management? What changes can you bring about in regions where you have a presence?India is a number of years away from having the infrastructure for robust cold chain solutions, and that will come. Having said that, in the area of food safety, a lot of challenges exist in developed and developing countries. It is remarkable how at what temperature food has to be maintained is not readily available in most parts of the world.
Ten years ago, we at Emerson began to recognise the importance of optimising system performance. We need to be more than just the largest compressor manufacturer in the world. About 20 years ago, we became more involved in system controls. We introduced the CPC system, which is about supermarket control equipment. We made progress in the area of electronics. It was not only about controls equipment, but also about diagnosing systems problems and enterprise solutions. Today, we have the capability to look at systems to see what temperature food is being maintained, and to do so proactively before a problem arises. For instance, we can identify if a system has run out of refrigerant charge. Our focus is on the store – can we help our customer understand that food is being held at temperatures that are safe? And what about the transportation side? What about food safety at the point of origin? That’s something to be looked
at. By using controls, the capability to understand that date is there. We are monitoring thousands and thousands of supermarkets and convenience stores. We have energy-efficiency optimising algorithm and HACCP-type algorithm. And we can provide documentation.
Even today, in many supermarkets, people are walking from case to case to see what temperature the food in it is being maintained at. The technology to track that is not hard. A big part of the strategy is, ‘What can Emerson Climate Technologies do to expand the value-add to customers? How can we do more for our customers?’ The answer to that is the use of electronics to prove that not only is the compressor running but also so is the entire system.
Again, whatever system you might want to apply, it is of no use if you do not provide the education needed to run that system. The tool has to be user-friendly. If it is not intuitive and if the end-user cannot use it with confidence, then there is no use. In the 1970s and the 1980s, electronics came into the automobile industry. But many service technicians did not know how to service it, and the technology was not as reliable. I think the same is true for food. Before you see FM tools being broadly accepted, the store manager and the maintenance manager need to understand the software. They need to believe that they don’t need a food safety expert to run the software. FM has to be intuitive. So education is important. It is important that people feel confident that the tool works, and that there is user-interface.
There is tremendous flux on what's going to happen in terms of regulations. All transitions have been challenging
A reliable insulation system is paramount to achieving and maintaining optimal energy efficiency, as it reduces energy
losses, and ultimately, heating and cooling costs. In this article, we examine the most common insulation
materials and their applications, as well as the installation issues that might affect the system’s performance.
Valeria Camerino reports.
reducingenergy waste through
insuLation
As Dr. Marc Schuetze, Head of BD & Production at BaySystems Pearl explained, the most common insulation materials are rockwool, expanded or extruded polystyrene and polyurethane. Rockwool or mineral wool is an inorganic product that is used for the
manufacturing of sandwich panels but can also be employed as insulation boards for construction or as pipe insulation. Polystyrene can be used in the same applications, he said.
In his view, polyurethane is the most versatile insulation material as it can be used in all of the above mentioned applications, as well as the insulation of refrigerators and freezers, pre-insulated pipes for district cooling or heating and on-site manufactured spray foam.
Selection and performance of insulation solutions are mainly determined by thermal conductivity and thickness of insulation, fire resistance and price.
Schuetze explained that, to achieve optimal energy efficiency through insulation, it is important to take into account the so-called called R value or thermal resistivity.
The latter is a combination of the thermal conductivity of the material and the thickness in which it is used.
Polyurethanes, he claimed, have the best in class thermal conductivity. This means that insulation products made of polyurethanes can be thinner compared to polystyrene or rockwool.
However, he pointed out that the insulation is not effective if side measures like air tight seals are neglected.
With regard to installation issues, Schuetze illustrated the two different ways of installing insulation.
insulation like sandwich panels with a core of insulating material, pre-insulated pipes or boards, which just have to be assembled on site.
“This is usually done by professional construction companies,” he said. “The key points here are to avoid thermal bridges and damage on the insulation material as this could lead to a decreased efficiency of the whole system.”
The other installation method is the on-site manufacturing of the insulation in applications like spray foam for walls and roofs.
“All insulation material requires proper handling and installation to achieve a good insulation performance,” he emphasised.
In Schuetze’s opinion, the region has shown good
progress in setting quality standards for insulation products and, especially Dubai Municipality has taken the lead in this.
“The current standards are very much oriented towards the European norms with local adaptations,” he said.
Furthermore, he pointed out, thanks to government initiatives, end-users have become increasingly aware of the importance of a reliable insulation system.
“Effective insulation of houses, cold storages, refrigerated trucks, pipelines, etc., contributes to a large extent to energy savings and can contribute to reducing the impact of global warming,” Schuetze argued.
Last month, Dubai-based Hira Industries, which manufactures rubber and polyethylene products, tapes, ventilation accessories and Diamond pipe supports, opened a new insulation factory in Ras Al Khaimah, UAE, “to meet the increasing demand for insulation materials in the Middle East, Africa and India”, the company pointed out.
“Hira is the main local player when it comes to products concerning the HVAC field with a tradition of more than 30 years,” Hira, Managing Director and owner of Hira Industries said.
He added: “We target the same results also in the foam business and that is why we decided to commit ourselves to the Gulf region by setting up our own production facilities for cross-linked
polyethylene, an unique investment of this kind in this region.”
The company, which currently has branches in Oman, Kuwait, Qatar, Saudi Arabia, India and is due to open a new office in Africa, claims to be the only company from the GCC region that can provide both XLPE and NBR pipe insulation.
Hira’s future efforts will be directed towards ensuring technologically advanced insulation solutions complying with British and American standards.
Despite the challenging economic scenario of the last three years, the company strongly believes that the Gulf region remains a very interesting market, also taking into account that the GCC’s construction sector is picking up steadily.
Laurentiu Pestritu, Hira Industries’ Product Manager Insulation Middle East, India & Africa, warned against the risks of faulty installation of insulation material in air conditioning applications.
He pointed out that considerable effort is needed to repair the system if it sustains any damage, as it can prove to be very serious, in case of low-temperature applications.
Proper installation work is,
therefore, absolutely necessary, he said, especially when insulating complex pipe systems.
In his opinion, faulty installation work can be easily avoided if insulation contractors follow a few simple rules. Condensation control and minimising heat loss are the two important factors that need to be kept in mind during cold applications. An insulation system has to be protected against moisture penetration, must be thermal-efficient, fire-resistant and easy to install.
“Insulation work needs to be treated seriously, especially when it comes to refrigeration and air conditioning applications,” Pestritu said.
As he explained, the planning of a low-temperature insulation project involves three important aspects: choosing a suitable insulation material; sizing the insulation on the basis of all the calculation parameters,
Insulation work needs to be treated seriously, especially when it comes to refrigeration and air conditioning applications
like line temperature, ambient temperature, relative humidity and pipe diameter; and professional installation of the pipe.
“Mistakes in the installation of elastomeric insulation materials usually arise when measuring fittings, cutting the material to size and gluing the parts,” Pestritu said.
“However, errors can also be made when using mounting devices or functional substructures and creating correctly glued joints with ‘alien’ materials, for example, in the vicinity of pipe brackets. Incorrect installation could prove expensive, especially in sensitive areas of pipe brackets.”
Unigulf Development in partnership with IK Insulation Group have recently opened a new manufacturing plant in Dubai, K Flex manufacturing, for the production of elastomeric rubber insulation solutions.
As Dr Bruno Re, the company’s Director of International Sales and Marketing, pointed out, the new Dubai plant, will be the fourth largest in the world of closed cell elastomeric insulation.
At a technical seminar hosted by Leminar in October last year, representatives of KIMMCO, part of the insulation group of Kuwait-headquartered Al Ghanim Industries, showcased the company’s rockwool and glasswool insulation products.
During the seminar, Shahid Khan, Vice President-Insulation Group at Al Ghanim Industries,
said that rockwool is needed for industrial applications such as boilers, while Dr Kailash Chandra, Senior Manager-Technical at KIMMCO went on to say that several parameters dictate the choice of insulation material for a particular project, including the U value and fire safety.
Dr Chandra, who delivered a detailed presentation on rockwool and glasswool, said that both of them are resistant to fire. In addition, rockwool and glasswool also have good acoustic performance and, owing to their solid and tightly bound nature, boast good thermal performance.
He also pointed out that, unlike foam and other insulating materials, glasswool and rockwool are environmentally friendly.
Khan, on the other hand, emphasised that good insulation is fundamental to increasing energy efficiency in buildings. “Forty per cent
of the world’s energy is used in buildings,” he said. “Cooling or heating to 22°C, plus or minus two, requires energy. Power plants produce energy, but they also release carbon into the atmosphere. You can save energy through insulation.”
He was echoed by Dr Chandra, who explained that insulation in HVAC saves energy, stops condensation and reduces noise. Glasswool and rockwool, in particular, he claimed, come with additional benefits.
The two insulating materials, he said, are available in flexible, semi-rigid and rigid forms; are light in weight and compressible; suitable for a wide range of temperatures (from -200°C to 800°C) and do not promote the growth of mould, bacteria and fungus.
He added that they don’t not show any ageing; are resistant to fire; have almost zero GWP (global warming
potential) and ODP (ozone depleting potential) and could meet almost any application requirement in a building.
All insulation material requires proper handling and installation to achieve a good insulation performance
In recent times, thermal shield paints, which block the heat from the sun from entering the buildings by either reflecting the heat away or through conduction, hence, reducing energy waste, have
gained increasing acceptance across the regional markets.
Are the new green building regulations being implemented across the Gulf countries encouraging building owners
and developers to accelerate the adoption of these specialised paints?
One of the pioneering companies in the field of eco-friendly painting and coating solutions is Jotun Paints.
The company has recently rolled out its 'GreenSteps' initiative, a five-point goal programme to reassure consumers that Jotun products are better formulated and conformed to world class green building standards. The five 'GreenSteps' include the move to reduce energy consumption; reduce carbon footprint; reduce waste; reduce the use of solvent or Volatile Organic Content (VOC) and reduce the use of hazardous materials.
Jotun boasts a diverse range of environmentally sustainable paints, such as “Jotashield Extreme” and its “Cool Shades” collection.
Thermal shield technology is based on the use of special types of black pigments in the paint which work as a heat reflector.
Sverre Knudsen, General Manager−AbuDhabiatJotun Paints, explains how the technology works.
“Glass bubbles in the paint reflect sunlight,” he says. “In the Jotashield range, it’s a bit complicated to add on, but the interest is there in the market. Jotashield Extreme is the latest advancement. The colour pigment reflects the heating rays of the sun away from
the walls. You can use it as [you would use] an ordinary paint.”
The lifespan of the paint is about six to eight years, depending on the impact of wind and sand.
Knudsen claims that the product reduces indoor temperature by 3°C and electricity consumption by a minimum of 10%.
This means that, although Jotashield Extreme is 10% more expensive than Jotun’s conventional paints, the payback period is about one year, he says.
Knudsen believes that these environmentally sustainable paints should be of interest to all home owners, as they reduce energy costs.
“The authorities here want to bring down energy consumption, so we are sure this is the [right] product for the area,” he argues.
The company, which has already tested the paints in residential buildings across South East Asia, intends to do the same in the UAE.
In 2010, Sigma Paints Saudi Arabia introduced an unprecedented zero VOC paint system, the company claims. “VOCs are organic chemicals that readily vaporise at room temperature. They are called organic because they contain the element carbon in their molecular structures,” Antoine Lejuez, Sigma Paints Marketing Manager−Middle East, explains.
VOCs include a very wide range of individual substances, such as hydrocarbons, halocarbons and oxygenates, which are very harmful to the environment and human health.
The new Zero VOC product range from Sigma Paints consists of water-based products, which are absolutely 'clean' paints and don’t contain any harmful substances for human beings, the company claims.
Lejuez says: “We are looking at sustainability and green products. Our
company has a long history of producing
environmentally-sound products, even before
it was trendy to do so."
OGreen building regulations have not forced owners to take notice until now, but we have seen a lot of activity from Dubai and Abu Dhabi governments and municipalities recently, and we hope that this will change things
He adds: “Sigma Paints today can lead the way towards green thinking in a broader spectrum in the construction field and become a role model in this region."
According to Sigma, its new ‘Eco Protection’ label indicates that all the products bearing the logo are water-based, lead-free and contain low amounts of VOCs. The assortment of products that meet the eco-protection guidelines
comprises primers, fillers, textures and emulsions.
In order to comply with the stringent European standards, Lejuez explains, the company needed to reformulate all its products without compromising their visual colour standards, which was a long process taking around five years of extensive research and development, and involving bringing in new raw materials and working both in the laboratory and with end-users to bring the VOC content of many of its lines to below the European standard.
“Throughout the world, we see an increasing awareness towards sustainability,” Lejuez says.
He argues that this topic is increasingly influencing the buying behaviour of consumers and also the way corporations run their businesses.
“In line with these trends, we see an increasing demand for paint concepts that give a positive contribution towards a more sustainable environment,” Lejuez points out.
“Different laws have been implemented to ensure a more sustainable living. For example, there are specific guidelines for coatings, which indicate the quantities of particular materials to be used as a percentage level.”
In his view, stricter building specifications that promote a total “green” concept are also gaining
ground. This means that not only building materials should meet ecological standards, but also the techniques used in the construction phase and the location of the buildings should meet such standards.
“In line with these standards, we now cooperate with different independent organisations such as LEED, Green Seal and MPI that puts restrictions on the level of toxic materials used in paints,” Lejuez explains.
Mustafa Turra, Regional Marketing Manager – Middle East at Berger Paints, emphasises that there are a number of technical criteria that external façade paints should meet to achieve optimal protection in hot, wet and dry environments.
These are excellent UV and weather resistance, good anti bacterial, fungal and algal resistance, good mechanical properties such as flexibility, adhesion, and abrasion
resistance, water vapour transmission, chloride ion diffusion resistance and anti-carbonation properties.
He observes that usually maintenance of external coatings is not done properly and periodically.
“However, having coating with good dirt pickup and anti-graffiti properties helps in the long term.”
Turra explains that the main trends in the field of sustainable and eco-friendly painting solutions include the use of low VOCs, lead- and heavy metal-free paints, as well as light- and heat-reflective products which reduce the heating of buildings and power consumption.
In his view, generally speaking, end-users have a low level of environmental awareness, and therefore, don’t seem particularly concerned with the environmental impact of conventional paints.
“Green building regulations have not forced owners to take notice until now,” Turra argues, “but we have seen a lot of activity from Dubai and Abu Dhabi governments and municipalities recently, and we hope that this will change things.”
Different laws have been implemented to ensure a more sustainable living. For example, there are specific guidelines for coatings, which indicate the quantities of particular materials to be used as a percentage level
THEME:‘OPTIMISING WATER USE IN DISTRICT COOLING, EXPLORING MACRO-DIRECTIONS’
DOHA, QATAR
C3 Doha is a two-day-long conference, which will see technical presentations, panel discussions and cluster discussions. Day 2 will spotlight challenges and recent advancements in cooling towers. The Conference will generate a series of recommendations that will be extensively published in Climate Control Middle East and in other media platforms.
FOR QUERIES RELATED TO SPONSORSHIPS, CONTACT:
FOR PROGRAMME-RELATED QUERIES, CONTACT:
B SurendarEditorial Director & Associate PublisherT: +971 (4) 3756831M: +971 (50) 509 2457F: +971 (4) 4341906E: [email protected]
40 Climate Control Middle East February 201240 Climate Control Middle East February 2012
SAUDI ARABIA 2011
Talking food safetyThe Saudi Arabian coastal city of Dammam was host to the 2nd edition of Food Chain, on December 12 and 13, 2011. The two-day event saw key presentations by the World Food Programme and DuctSox, which showcased its fabric ducting system. Another highlight of the conference was a master-class by Ghaleb Abusaa of en3 Solutions. Abusaa, a 40-year veteran of the HVACR industry, with several marquee cold chain projects to his credit, spoke on two key topics, ‘Storage and handling of food products’ and ‘Behaviour of fruits, pre- and post-harvest’. The scope of the classes included such food products as canned food, chocolates, fruits and vegetables, meat, poultry, sea food and dairy products.Here, we present to you in pictures the event that was…
Ashraf Hamouda of World Food Programme launches the 'I care about food safety' programme (Arabic) for Saudi Arabia
Tawfiq Al Attari of DuctSox launches the 'I care about food safety' programme (English) for Saudi Arabia
February 2012 www.climatecontrolme.com 41 February 2012 www.climatecontrolme.com 41
Discover the Advantages ofDuctSox® Air Dispersion Systems
DUCTSOX FORFOOD PROCESSING
DuctSox has provided fabric duct/diffuser productsto the food processing industry for over 30 years.Historically, DuctSox fabrics have been used inprojects approved by the USDA!
Benefi ts:Air is evenly dispersed through porous fabric eliminating drafts and condensationMore uniform temperatures for food processing environmentsReduced dirt deposits on diffuser and adjacent areasSecondary air fi ltration benefi ts improve air quality and plant cleanlinessAntimicrobial treated fabrics/cleaner air distribution systemsDuctSox can be easily removed for laundering
The most common fabrics used in these environments include Sedona-Xm and Microbe-X.
Sedona-Xm: Sedona-Xm features an active antimicrobial agent which is incorporated into the fabric during the fabric manufacturing process. Independent antimicrobial testing reveals a distinct zone of inhibition around the fabric swatch.Even after being laundered (10x), tested fabric samples continue to yield clear antimicrobial effectiveness.
Microbe-X: Microbe-X’s polyester yarns are treated with a non-leaching antimicrobial which controls the growth andtransmission of harmful bacteria, fungi, and molds that can be found in food processing environments. Microbe-X isproven to be effective after 100 wash cycles.
Food safety is the quintessential element that guides the activities of any food-related business. Cold chain management is key to food safety. Climate Control Middle East magazine, in association with Dubai Municipality, will be conducting Food Safety Symposium during the Dubai International Food Safety Conference 2012, to discuss handling and storage issues from a refrigeration perspective.
Key topics...Best practices in consultancy- and contracting-related challenges•
HACCP monitoring and its capabilities within the hot and cold storage areas•
Hygienic execution of cold rooms for food storage as part of the cold chain•
Equipment selection: The importance of achieving a high degree of energy effi ciency without compromising on food safety•
Equipment selection: What should cold storage/supermarket owners look for in selecting the right equipment (reliability, training, •
after-sales service and O&M)
How to respond to chiller-related issues, power back-up•
What happens in between: The crucial role played by transport refrigeration in microbiological control, preserving nutrition and •
reducing spoilage
Upgrading and enhancement of existing facilities: How to survive design fl aws in existing facilities; confl ict between old design •
and latest regulations and technologies
Supply chain quality management: An end-user’s perspective•
ealants, coatings and adhesives – in the HVAC industry: these three words are often strung together without a
second thought. And why shouldn’t they be, when the three share so much in common? At their most basic, each of these is designed for the express purpose of maintaining a high level of comfort for the occupants of a given facility. However, the simplistic assumption that because they serve a similar function they must be essentially the same underestimates their separate, critical roles as part of a functioning HVAC system. The very integrity of such a system depends on the optimal performance and high quality of these three interconnected components.
An understanding of the importance of properly sealed ductwork begins with a single bare fact from the US Department of Energy – the typical duct system loses
a quarter to nearly half of its energy output as a result of poor sealing and lack of insulation. And because air leaking from ductwork is invisible, most duck leaks go unnoticed by homeowners and HVAC contractors. The majority of leakage occurs at connections, joints and seams throughout a duct system, making proper sealing one of the easiest and most effective methods of mitigating energy loss and reducing operating costs. The HVAC industry has come a long way since the advent of the now-ubiquitous roll of gray duct tape (which by code is not allowed to be used to seal ducts), with a variety of sealing methods available for commercial and residential ductwork. Rolled sealants are perhaps the closest to duct tape in appearance and function, although their superior adhesion and tensile strength means they are code-compliant and far better suited to the task. Today’s rolled elastomeric sealants are available in a variety of widths and are suitable for use on metal, duct board, PVC, wood, concrete and most other materials. They offer resistance to water, chemicals, acids and
bases, can tolerate temperatures from subzero to well over 200° degrees, and provide moisture- and vapour-tightness at duct connections including those that are below grade.
In a world of increased labour costs, alternative sealing methods are becoming
D-Code
The typical duct system loses a quarter to nearly half of its energy output as a result of poor sealing and lack of insulation
SEAL oF APPRovALDuctwork is probably the single most important element of any HVAC system. Proper duct fitting ensures optimal indoor air quality and thermal comfort.
Furthermore, air leakage is one of the key culprits of energy loss in the HVAC industry, hence the importance of scrupulous sealing and insulation can by no means be underestimated.
In this second part of our year-long campaign on ducting, John Guthrie, Regional Sales Manager at Carlisle HVAC, sheds some light on the role played by sealants, coatings and adhesives in improving buildings’ energy efficiency and indoor air quality.
A Climate Control Middle East campaign on demystifying the world of ducting
more and more popular. Among the most useful innovations in HVAC sealing is the sprayed sealant, which reduces application time over rolled elastomeric sealants and can offer cost and labor savings of up to 70%. Sprayed sealants are touted for their consistent coverage at increased coverage rates and substantial performance enhancement over tapes (allowing for higher SMACNA pressure classes). Many manufacturers also offer low-VOC, water-based sprayed sealants, which can contribute to LEED credit requirements. A disadvantage of this option is that sprayed sealants require the use of a special “delivery system” or spray rig in order to accomplish the job. Paint spray rigs are sometimes suitable for the task, but some manufacturers have improved the process by developing specialty rigs that can better accommodate sealants.
Mastics and silicone sealants are two other popular sealing options. They are extremely versatile and can withstand extremely low or high temperatures, ultraviolet rays and inclement weather.
Mastics can be water- or solvent-based. Application of these products is often more time- and labour-intensive than spray methods, but tests have demonstrated that they are remarkably reliable, performing even under extreme conditions for many years. In fact, in a study comparing the various methods for sealing ductwork, mastics far outperformed standard duct tape.
If sealants can be said to be responsible for maintaining positive airflow throughout ductwork, coatings
are tasked with improving the air’s quality. It is no secret
in the HVAC industry that ductwork often
goes uncleaned for decades, making ducts a breeding ground
for mold, mildew, fungus
and microbes. Coatings are one form
of defense against the war these wage on a facility’s occupants. The effectiveness of coatings depends on their performance at two levels. First, they work as encapsulants, covering and neutralising the organic and inorganic matter (such as dust and debris from delaminated insulation, for example) on which microbes feed. Secondly, they provide a glossy or semi-gloss finish to the interior of ductwork, preventing the accumulation of debris that can lead to the growth of mold. Many duct coatings are low-VOC, and
February 2012 www.climatecontrolme.com 45
SEAL oF APPRovAL
A Climate Control Middle East campaign on demystifying the world of ducting
Pre-insuLated aLuMiniuM ductsHere's the lowdown on the manufacturing process of water expanded polyurethane panels for pre-insulated aluminium ducts.
By Eng. Antonio Temporin and Eng. Andrea van Schalkwyk
THE COMPLETE MANUFACTURING PROCESSThe manufacturing of Polyurethane pre-insulated aluminium panels is a delicate and extremely complex process which requires the skill and knowledge of both mechanical and chemical properties alike.
From a mechanical and production plant point of view, panels are produced via a continuous process of the distribution of liquid components to a spraying head which floats between two sheets of aluminium foil.
The liquid components are pumped directly to the mixing head from tanks in the temperature-controlled preparation room,
where the Polyol is mixed with further additives which differ according to the characteristics of the specific panel that is required to be produced.
The Isocyanate on the other hand, is pumped directly to the production line from the tank.
Polymerisation and foaming take place in a rolling mill type process formed by two overlapping conveyor belts.
The required panel thickness can range from 12 mm to 50 mm and is determined by the distance set between the two belts. The rolling mill travels in a continuous loop into a curing tunnel which has been pre-heated.
The polymerised foam panel leaves the rolling mill and is cut to size using an automatic cutting system unit.
All process waste materials are removed, collected into silos, compacted and then sent to collection bins for subsequent external disposal.
The manufactured panels are then stacked in bundles and further packaged in heat-shrink protective polyethylene to minimise material damage during the freight handling process.
The panel packages are then sent to the warehouse ready for use and/or distribution.
THE CHEMICAL REACTION PROCESSFrom a chemical point of view, traditional polyurethane foaming technology exploits the heat of the exothermic reaction between the Polyol and Isocyanate materials to evaporate a liquid with a low boiling point (CFC, HCFC, HFC, HC) previously added to the mixture. Most of these gases remain trapped inside the cellular structure of the polyurethane polymer being formed. However, part of these gasses are released into the environment over a period of time. With the passage of time, the composition of the gas contained in the cells may vary due to the natural tendency to reach equilibrium with the outdoor surroundings. This process is significantly influenced by the type of external facing given to the foam
and its density, operating temperature, formulation and the type of gas used during the manufacturing process itself.
When reaching the atmosphere, chlorinated gases like CFC and HCFC are struck by ultraviolet radiation that leads to the release of radical chlorine through photo dissociation. The radical chlorine then reacts with the ozone and causes its continual destruction.
Using Hydrotec water technology on the other hand, foaming is obtained only by the gas generated through the chemical reaction between the Isocyanate, water and the consequent further reaction during the Polyol and Isocyanate process, which then results in the polyurethane chain being identical to that of CFC, HCFC, HFC or HC respectively.
Polyurethane pre-insulated aluminium panels manufactured using Hydrotec water technology result in the elimination of the greenhouse effect (GWP=0) and the impact on the Ozone layer present in the atmosphere (ODP=0).
The environmental compatibility of these panels has been achieved through the use of water in the expansion process of the polyurethane foam in substitution to the greenhouse effect fluorinated gasses (CFC, HCFC, HFC) and of the hydrocarbons (HC).
The Hydrotec water technology used in the expansion of the Rigid Polyurethane PUR complies with all European Standards and anticipates future provisions which, from a restriction point of view, will see a gradual phase out and subsequent ban on all fluorinated gasses in currently ‘non restricted’ regions of the world.
ACHIEVED INSULATION ATTRIBUTESThe Rigid Polyurethane PUR panels produced using the Hydrotec water expansion technology also have an
extremely high “insulation value”. A material’s “insulation value” is the characteristic used to reduce the transmission of heat between two environments with different temperatures. The quantity of heat Q transmitted between the opposing parallel faces of a flat layer of homogenous material in a stable environment can be expressed using the equation detailed below:Q=[λS(t1-t2)]/swhere:Q = heat flow [W];S = surface area affected by the heat flow [m²];t1 - t2 = temperature difference between the two faces [°C];s = thickness of the material [m];λ=thermalconductivity[W/(m°C)].
The thermal conductivity, can therefore numerically be quantified as the heat flow that travels through a unitary surface with a unitary thickness and when the difference in temperature between those two faces of the considered layer of material also remains unitary.
Expanded polyurethane panels which are manufactured using the Hydrotec water expansion technology are currently one of the best heat insulation materials available on the market. As can be seen below, where various insulating materials used in air ducting applications have been compared;
The authors are respectively the Chief Scientist and Technical/Commercial Manager of P3 Srl – P3ductal Preinsulated Panels System, Padua Italy. They may be contacted at [email protected].
D-CodeA Climate Control Middle East campaign on demystifying the world of ducting
most can be applied using a variety of methods, from rollers to spray rigs. Robotic sealing and coating systems are becoming popular alternative methods for the application of such coatings. These robots often include integrated digital video recorders which provide a direct feed to the operator, allowing the identification and remediation of problem areas.
The third critical area of HVAC maintenance is adhesive. As mentioned above, loose, delaminated bits of insulation tend to foster mold growth, and they also have the nasty habit of impeding airflow within a duct system, dramatically affecting its efficiency. Delaminated insulation can also break down, contaminating the air with its fibers. Remediation of such ductwork is often cost- and labour-intensive. Water- and solvent-based adhesives, roller-applied, brushed and sprayed, each poses a number of advantages and
disadvantages based on the nature of a given application. The appropriate adhesive provides a strong, uniform bond between ductwork and the insulation. Its performance is typically complemented by a lagging adhesive to seal the exposed edges of insulation in order to prevent airborne fibers from entering into the facility’s airflow.
Adhesives can be split into three categories – water-based, solvent-based, and aerosol adhesives (which, though a distinct category, are also technically solvent-based). Some require an hour or more of bonding and drying time, while others – particularly aerosol adhesives – bond and dry immediately. Like coatings, many of these are low VOC and often have fungicidal or antimicrobial properties. Spray rigs and robots can be adapted to deliver insulation adhesives to HVAC systems for an extremely quick and incredibly uniform application.
An allusion made at the beginning of this article bears repeating at its close: as with all components in an HVAC system, quality makes a difference. The total lifecycle cost rather than the mere initial installed costs must be taken into account when designing an HVAC system, with the best products specified to ensure optimal system performance. All angles considered, why these three crucial aspects of HVAC design are often recited in the same breath seems fairly obvious. The differences between adhesives, coatings and sealants may seem great when the three are compared side-by-side; nevertheless, they work together to play an integral role in offering comfort to a facility’s occupants. Their contribution to maintaining a building envelope’s energy efficiency and offering high indoor air quality cannot be overstated, and with advances in technology, their application today is faster and simpler than ever.
A Climate Control Middle East campaign on demystifying the world of ducting
The backgroundTurbine Inlet Air Cooling (TIAC) is an established and proven technology to enhance gas turbine generator power output and efficiency. The application of TIAC, however, is complex, as there are many variables to consider.
Owners in the Middle East typically utilise the services of consultants, such as in the district cooling market to assist them in evaluating energy solutions before issuing Requests for Proposal (RFPs) to Engineering Procurement and Construction (EPC) companies. But until now, the field of TIAC does not
appear to have the benefit of the services of consultants.
TIAC has been applied globally to hundreds of gas turbines, and the Kingdom of Saudi Arabia accounts for most applications in the Middle East. The power output of an existing gas turbine can be increased by up to 30% during the summer months when the ambient temperature is very high, with additional benefit of improved heat rate, or fuel efficiency. TIAC can provide a ‘virtual turbine’, which can be turned on quickly to provide an almost instantaneous boost in power output. However, many applications are not cost efficient, as the plants are designed for ambient conditions, which either do not exist or do so only for a few hours per year. This can result in plants which could be 20% or more oversized and over cost. The result is
that many otherwise viable TIAC projects are shelved due to higher than necessary capital costs.
There are many issues to consider when selecting a TIAC system for a gas turbine, other than the very important selection of design ambient condition. A few of these are:
Is water available for •cooling towers or are air-cooled radiators/condensers required?Is power enhancement •required 24 hours a day, or just for peak hours each day, which will determine if Thermal Energy Storage (TES) is suitable?Is maximum power •required during peak hours, which would determine what TES application is required?Is it a peaker plant?•There are, of course,
several other requirements
to be considered, which demand expertise and experience in the field to evaluate and find the optimum system for the client. In this context,
T The result is that many otherwise viable TIAC projects are shelved due to higher than necessary capital costs
Emphasising that TIAC system has an edge over gas turbines, Paul Saville explains the ramifications of how the technology works.
THE phase-out of HCFCs and the issue of Energy Security have prompted us to reflect on our business strategies. Refrigerants Review seeks to achieve one critical objective – to identify the ideal refrigerant, among those currently available in the GCC, for high-, medium- and low-temperature applications.
Being organised by Climate Control Middle East magazine, the event will take place in the UAE, a key hub for the construction of sustainable societies, where refrigeration and air conditioning are critical and essential.
The parameters considered for defining the ideal refrigerants include:Health and safety• The effect on the environment (ODP, GWP and TEWI)• Energy efficiency• Compatibility with existing technologies (reaction with materials in contact and effect on cost)• Stability under different pressures and temperatures• Effect on equipment size/footprint• Availability• Price•
STRUCTURERefrigerants Review is structured in a manner that will allow participants to understand better the implications involved and, then, to look on a case-to-case basis at what’s available in the market. It will encourage participants to examine the direction in which the region is going and the direction it ought to perhaps consider taking.
Based on the objective it seeks to achieve, Refrigerants Review will be for a duration of two days. Day 1 is dedicated to understanding refrigerants from a broad perspective, the latest developments and the policies that support the deployment of the refrigerants. Day 2 is a platform for specific technical presentations, with case studies in all major refrigerant uses and panel discussions.
POTENTIAL DELEGATESThese include all stakeholders, such as government bodies, industry associations and end-users that have the responsibility of making the right selection decisions on equipment, keeping in mind financial obligations involved in long-term investments, safeguarding the environment and CSR.
REFRIGERANTSREFRIGERANTS
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SAFETYSAFETY | ENVIRONMENT | EFFICIENCY
KNOWLEDGE PARTNER SUPPORTING ASSOCIATION SUPPORTING PARTNER For further information on the event,
TIAC is considerably less expensive than a gas turbine, can be installed in much less time, and has the additional benefit of improved heat rate and reduced carbon footprint.
an InSIghT InTo TIacWhy cool the air?Gas turbines are constant volume machines, but their performance is dependent on mass flow rate. As the ambient temperature increases, the mass flow rate and power output decrease. Applying TIAC eliminates most of this power degradation.
What are the methods available?Evaporative cooling and fogging systems are limited by ambient wet bulb and
cannot cool the air below an approach to wet bulb. They are also not completely controllable. On the other hand, mechanical TIAC systems are not limited by wet bulb, and are capable of controlling to a constant turbine inlet air temperature.
How does mechanical TIAC work?A cooling coil is installed in the gas turbine filter house, through which is passed a cooling fluid such as chilled water, glycol, or sometimes a direct refrigerant. Some variants have a hybrid evaporative/mechanical cooler installed in front of the filter house, which can provide ‘free’ cooling to certain temperatures, and mechanical cooling when a lower temperature and higher power output is required. These evaporative/mechanical cooler systems have the additional benefit of pre-filtration of the air.
FILTer houSeSThe filter house is the interface with the gas turbine and it is critical that it is designed correctly, and
is compatible with coils, to prevent water carryover and potential damage to the gas turbine. This will involve careful review of air velocities and mist eliminator design.
Some filter houses, particularly on existing installations, are not ‘coil ready’ and therefore have to be modified to accommodate cooling coils. It is, therefore, preferable for new installations to have coil-ready filter houses, even if TIAC is not being applied immediately, as the cost increase is marginal compared with the later retrofit cost.
aVaILabLe TechnoLogIeSThere are many mechanical cooling systems available to provide chilled water or glycol to TIAC coils, like centrifugal chillers, compound centrifugal chillers, screw chillers, and absorption chillers. The selection of these chillers is dependent on design ambient conditions, water availability, and available energy to drive the chillers.Absorption chillers can utilise waste heat from
the gas turbine exhaust system to provide an energy source (steam or air) to drive absorption chillers. Although these chillers have a higher capital cost, and can only be applied to certain TIAC systems, they are efficient and provide a lower operating cost.
TherMaL energY STorage (TeS) Chilled water or ice thermal storage tanks can significantly reduce the capital cost of TIAC systems in certain applications. These can be utilised as either a full or partial storage mode depending on the application and a client’s requirements. TES systems can also maximise the peak power enhancement, although the plant footprint will increase.
SuMMarYTIAC is a very important technology in the present climate of increased power demand. It is a proven technology, which can be applied quickly and at a relatively low cost, improves energy efficiency and reduces the carbon footprint. The application of TIAC is a complex issue, with many variables to be considered. These require expertise and experience to apply correctly, safely, and cost effectively.
The power output of an existing gas turbine can be increased by up to 30% during the summer months when the ambient temperature is very high
The author is Managing Director of Saville Energy Consultancy. He may be contacted at [email protected] or visit www.saville-energy.com
A brief glance at the latest trends in cooling technology and coil design show a more
intensified focus on energy efficiency and comfort.
Nearly 110 years have passed since the first installation of air conditioning in 1902. Although Thermodynamics is widely considered a complete science today, new designs of heat pumps, air conditioners and refrigerators are flourishing, with an increased interest in the design of air conditioning and refrigeration (ACR) products in recent years.
a cLIMaTe oF InnoVaTIonMany factors have contributed to the new
environment of innovation in the ACR industry today, with the following being the primary reasons:
Phase out of high-ODP •and high-GWP refrigerantsUse of eco-friendly •refrigerants being encouraged or made mandatoryHigher energy efficiency •standardsFocus on sustainable •developmentComputer simulation of •components and system performanceResponsiveness to •needs and wants in the marketplaceThe phasing out of
popular CFC and HCFC refrigerants has been a major factor in spurring innovations in cooling technology in the past 20 years. Likewise, energy efficiency and sustainability
have necessitated invention. End-users have their eyes on energy efficiency ratings, and OEMs are highly motivated to use less material in their products.
Computer modelling is now commonly used to simulate total system design. Consequently, decisions about refrigerants, coils and components are made with the assistance of increasingly accurate performance simulations.
adVanceMenT In coIL deSIgnRedesign of the coil has seen the use of smaller diametre copper tubes with inner-grooves increasing the internal heat transfer coefficient and raising COPs. Such improvements in coil performance may also be favourable for the use of new refrigerants, less
materials, higher operating pressures (due to smaller diametre tubes) and variable refrigerant flow (due to an increase in the number of branches).
Also, system design has dramatically changed for the better with the use of smaller diametre inner grooved copper tubes in coil designs gaining ground.
naTuraL reFrIgeranTSNatural refrigerants, such as carbon dioxide and propane are fast becoming more attractive to OEMs and end-users for ACR and heating applications as technology has advanced. Also known as R744, carbon dioxide is used as a refrigerant in a growing number of applications, ranging from vending machines and refrigerated supermarket display cases to ice skating rinks.
Another natural refrigerant under consideration for use in air conditioning systems is propane. Known as R290, propane is an eco-friendly hydrocarbon (chemical formula C3H8) with outstanding thermodynamic properties that make it well-suited as a refrigerant for residential air conditioners.
The advantages of copper tubes in these applications include high thermal con-ductivity, corrosion resis-tance and strength. Smaller diametre copper tubes have even higher burst strengths, and allow for lower overall refrigerant volumes.
The use of copper is a proven technology with a well-established supply chain, including a network of trained installers with the know-how to ensure safety and reliability.
coPPer – a VIabLe oPTIonAnother factor influencing the design of air condition-
ing and refrigeration systems is new published research on copper’s efficacy against the spread of fungi in air conditioning systems. OEM companies, such as the Chinese air conditioning manufacturer, Chigo, and Hydronic in France, have already developed all-copper products, expressly for their antimicrobial properties.
The use of all-copper coils is not new, but their use specifically to inhibit the growth of fungi and bacteria is a recent development that is expected to be an impor-tant factor in designing innovative air conditioning and refrigeration products.
It has been found that bio build-up on the coil may be reduced by using all-copper coils, thus helping to maintain high levels of energy efficiency for longer times and avoiding energy-efficiency drop off over a period of time.
The decISIVe FacTorPerhaps the most important factor driving the develop-ment of new products is a better understanding of attitudes towards comfort and refrigeration in differ-ent climates and cultures. ACR product developers are responding better to the real needs and wants of end- users in the built environ-ment. They are right-sizing air conditioning and refrig-eration products to allow for precise temperature and humidity control in specific zones, while trying to elimi-nate waste. The result is that end-users will enjoy healthy, eco-friendly products that deliver cooling capacity with high energy efficiency when and where it is most desir-able.
WebInarMicroGroove, the manufacturer of ACR coils with smaller diametre copper tubes, has announced its upcoming Webinar. The details are given below: Tuesday, March 27 at 1pm ETPresented by The News and Appliance Design.Speaker: John Hipchen, President, Exel Consulting Group
TakIng a cLoSer Look aT coPPerThe air conditioner manufacturer, Chigo, has revealed that it has reduced the tube weight in one of its air conditioning systems by 30%. It has claimed that the weight reduction was achieved simply by switching to smaller diametre copper tubes in the evaporator and condenser coils of the system. The tube diametre was reduced from 9.52mm to 5mm in the condenser, and from 7mm to 5mm in the evaporator, it said.
According to Chigo, the air conditioner is a split system with a cooling capacity of 2,500 W and a COP of 3.2, or EER of 10.9. It needs to be noted that the energy efficiency ratio (EER) in units of Btu/hr per W is obtained from the coefficient of performance (COP) in units of W/W by multiplying by 3.412 since 1 W=3.412 Btu/hr.]
The ground-breaking antimicrobial copper coil air handling unit harnesses the anti-microbial properties of copper in hospital applications. It is made in Europe by French manufacturer Hydronic in association with Centre d’Information du Cuivre, Laitons et Alliages (CICLA).
The phasing out of popular CFC and hCFC refrigerants has been a major factor in spurring innovations in cooling technology in the past 20 years
Technoform Bautec, represented in the region by Technoform Middle East, a manufacturer of insulation for aluminium windows, doors and facades, showcased its new bio-based polyamides for thermal-break aluminium profiles at The Big 5 show in Dubai held from November 21 to 24, 2011. The product, which has already been tested and prototyped, was earlier unveiled at the MADE Expo, Italy’s architecture and building trade exhibition, which was held in Milan from October 5 to 8, 2011, as well as at the BATIMAT, a building exhibition held in Paris from November 7 to 12, 2011. Making its Gulf debut, the product was showcased at the Zabeel Hall, Stand P114.
Technoform, has been working on bio-based polyamides in line with the increasing importance given globally to the sustainable use of resources and environment-friendly products. This is because the use of renewable raw materials can significantly improve the carbon footprint of products and can have a positive impact on environmental product declarations (EPD) and building certificates like LEED, BREEAM (BRE Environmental Assessment Method) or DGNB (the German Sustainable Building Council).
It needs to be noted that the group of biopolymers includes bio-based polymers made of renewable raw material and bio-degradable polymers, which degrade in water or other chemicals, and are used in applications, such as for packaging. Bio-based polyamides made from the fruits of the castor oil plant, are suitable for use in insulating profiles. There are three bio-based polyamides that are used for insulating profiles, due to their good mechanical properties and their high temperature resistance: PA10.10 (100% bio-based), PA6.10 (62% bio-based) and PA4.10 (70% bio-based). In detailed research, Technoform Bautec has successfully tested the processability of these different types of material.
The mechanical properties fulfill the specifications of the Technoform material data sheet for standard material, which exceeds European Norms. The characteristic values and sheer strength of the assembly (tested using a standard geometry) reach the same values as ones made with standard materials. On the basis of these findings, we are now planning to launch a joint project for interested customers to explore the quality of these materials in their special systems. Because commercial production of bio-based material has just started, production capacity of this material is still low. Of the bio-based polyamides types, PA6.10 is the raw material with the best availability and is the one offered by
different suppliers. There are currently a limited number of suppliers offering PA10.10 and PA4.10.
The fact that castor oil plant grows in very dry areas is a distinct advantage as its cultivation does not put press on naturally irrigated potential arable land, which is in high demand for the cultivation of food, animal feed and industrial material.
Additionally, a byproduct of the cultivation of these plants for bio-plastics is often high-value protein-rich animal feed. However, there is also a need to address other environmental concerns that might arise from bio-based polyamides, such as recycling of profiles. Recycling of aluminium windows is becoming a predominant topic of window associations worldwide. Technoform Bautec is a member of the German initiative A/U/F (Aluminium und Umwelt im Fenster- und Fassadenbau – Aluminum and environment in window and cladding construction), which focuses on returning construction elements into the supply chain to produce new building components after renovation, dismantling or demolition of buildings. Currently, there is no supply chain mechanism for returning insulating strips, and we are closely investigating the use of these materials in collaboration with this initiative.
The company’s German subsidiary is already certified according to ISO 14001 for environmental management standards. The ideal situation would be
to find a balance between environmental aspects and product requirements. For this reason, re-use of our own material in-house is a tried and tested practice, with almost 100% of our production waste re-used as internal re-ground material or re-granulated and applied in our production. The company uses in-house recycled material up to a level of 15% in its extrusion process, while conforming to its product specifications. Larger percentages are not always advisable as the mechanical properties and processability of recycled material diminish with every application, preparation and re-use. We also offers customers the option to return profiles that are not required – provided they were supplied by us – for re-use in the extrusion process, and are in appropriate condition.
T Recycling of aluminium windows is becoming a predominant topic of window associations worldwide
The author is Managing Director at Technoform. He can be reached at [email protected]
Nymphea Environnement, a company with knowledge of the sea and expertise in oceanographic surveys, is focused on exploring for undersea freshwater springs and judiciously tapping it, with what it claims to be a unique technology.
Freshwater springs“Undersea springs can be found all over the world, especially where the subsoil geological formations are limestone or volcanic rock,” Michael Becker explains. “It is freshwater flowing freely into the sea. Most undersea freshwater springs were once land springs, which were submerged when sea levels rose. Gravity naturally pulls this water down to the lowest possible point, often below sea level. However, freshwater being not as dense as saltwater, naturally rises and creates a detectable impact due to thermal anomaly at the surface, as it flows freely into the sea. The flow of water is 1.5 cubic metres per second.”
Becker points out that for hundreds of years, sailors have known about freshwater springs at sea. Now, divers and fishermen also know where they can be found. The teams at Nymphea Environnement carry out local surveys to gather this information.
a vital source oF drinking water Becker posits the view that this water is well-suited for human consumption and can ease the stress caused by water shortage in areas where the only solution up till now has been seawater desalination. “Till recently, there was no technology to collect this water,” he says. “Attempts to collect it had not met
cover story
Fresh water FroM the sea
Michael Becker, Area Manager, Nymphea Environnement, spoke to B Surendar during the World Future Energy Summit about the finer details and long-term implications of the technology to explore and tap sub-marine spring water.
with success due to seawater intrusion into the freshwater aquifer during the process of pumping it. And excessive pumping results in an increase in contamination by seawater.”
Becker claims that Nymphea Environnement, with continued research and exploration, has developed an array of technologies, protected by international patents, to tap this abundant source of freshwater, without causing seawater intrusion and contamination.
how the technology works “Every individual spring has specific physical and chemical characteristics that have a detectable impact on the marine environment, and we have therefore, consistently improved the methods to explore for and study undersea freshwater springs for the last 15 years,” he says.
Becker explains that the process of exploration is divided into three phases: Phase 1 assesses the real potential of finding undersea freshwater springs in a given geographical area. This involves local and geological surveys. The results of these analyses are used to pinpoint areas for further and more precise exploration, leading to analysing satellite data based on observation of major events generated by thermal phenomena and biological activity. Then,
an aerial survey is conducted. To detect these temperature differences, Nymphea Environnement uses aircraft equipped with multi-spectral cameras to scan, especially in infrared ranges. The aerial survey provides an overall mapping of the marine area studied, in which every anomaly is geo-referenced.
In Phase 2, an exploration at sea is carried out, mainly using acoustic devices. Variations in salinity at the surface and within the water column create interfaces, which are detected from an oceanographic research ship fitted with special equipment, as well as divers and robots. Three-dimensional sonar imaging systems and geophysics equipment are used to generate data of the area surrounding the undersea freshwater spring. The second phase ends with sampling and analysis of the spring water discovered, and measuring outflow rates.
In Phase 3, quantitative and qualitative studies are conducted to determine the freshwater spring’s potential and the parameters necessary to start production. Flow rates, salinity and morphology are some of the data required to design the collection system. This also makes it possible to assess variations in outflow rates related to rainfall on land and to determine spring water quality. The country’s geographical location and the influence of the seasons on the spring are factored in to create a digital hydrogeological model. The model is used in conjunction with technical and financial analyses to define the future cost of production.
“The complete study will last two
new technology to tap sub-marine springs
The Middle East holds potential, says Nymphea Environnement, which exhibited the concept at WFES 2012
Claiming it to be a new technology
to harvest fresh water from the sub-
marine springs in the sea, Nymphea
Environnement, a French company,
participated in the WFES, held from
January 16 to 19 in Abu Dhabi. The
company further claimed that the water
obtained was three to six times cheaper
than the water from desalination plants.
The company pointed out that like
common surface springs, numerous
submarine have existed for thousands of
years all over the world, sometimes deep
and sometimes at just a few metres from
the coast, which can yield huge volumes
of hitherto untapped natural resources.
It revealed that studies had confirmed
that the GCC region, too, had several such
possible sources of water. For example, it
had discovered a spring in Syria that has
a flow of 5,000 litres of water per second,
which can meet the consumption demand
for a city of 1,000,000 people.
Nymphea Environnement said
that Pierre Becker, a French geologist,
former commercial diver and offshore
construction company owner and his
associate Thierry Carlin, a marine engineer
and commercial diver, realising the
potential of the unexploited source of
water in solving world water problems,
started Nymphea Environnement in 2000,
at present owned by the Vinci Group, to
explore the possibilities, using natural
energy – gravity, buoyancy, waterhead, etc
– without using pumps, electricity or fuel.
According to Nymphea, the water is
mainly intended for human consumption
in areas affected by increasing drought.
And depending on its quality, it can also
be used for agriculture or industry.
The company believes that the UAE,
Qatar, Bahrain, Kuwait, the Sultanate of
Oman and the Kingdom of Saudi Arabia
have hydro-geological potential in sub-
marine springs, and has reportedly worked
for the Ministry of Environment in Qatar
and has created a branch office in the
UAE.
Till recently, there was no technology to collect this water. Attempts to collect it had not met with success due to seawater intrusion into the freshwater aquifer during the process of pumping it. And excessive pumping results in an increase in contamination by seawater
years and will cost a few million euros,” says Becker. “We can cut the cost by partnering with local authorities and universities and use local aircraft. The risk is in the first phase, only in the form of capital investment. Also, since due to long experience, local fishermen are generally aware of the location of
sub-marine springs, their help can be sought.”
the environmental implicationsAccording to Nymphea Environnement, the production technology used to tap sub-marine spring water is in harmony with nature. The system collects only the volume of water that is previously dispersed in the ocean, without disturbing the hydrological balance that have existed for thousands of years, it claims.
“To protect the environment, the company uses technology that draws on natural energy, such as buoyancy, hydraulic head and gravity,” says Becker. “Also, our system acts as a brake, since it has two modules.”
Highlighting this, he explains that the stainless steel structure designed is split into two units. The first one insures the water tightness around the spring, and avoids contamination by sea water, while the second unit is a pressure and overflow management system that hydromechanically regulates different parameters in real time.
Becker sums up the issue by saying, “Zero energy is used to harvest the water, which ensures a low and stable water selling price, zero greenhouse gas emission, so it is eligible to Emissions Trading Schemes, and zero impact on the
neighbouring areas, as there are no side costs to integrate.”
what it means to the regionSeen through the prism of the region’s water problems and the cost of producing potable water, Nymphea Environnement believes that sub-marine freshwater springs can be a perennial source of water in the region. Realising that it can prove to be a win-win situation, it is attempting to co-opt local authorities and expertise to help make exploring and exploiting the water source a viable proposition.
Locating undersea springs and tapping freshwater constitute a real solution to the shortage of water, as it is suitable for human consumption, believes Becker.
To this end, the company has made forays into the region. “Water into the Arabian Gulf comes from Iran, where you have precipitation on mountains, and comes directly to the UAE,” says Becker. “And it comes under the sea, because the Arabian Gulf is shallow. With this phenomenon, we have seen 100 litres to 500 litres of water flow per second. And in Syria, we have seen 5m3 flow per second in a sub-marine spring. That is 50 million litres a day. And a person needs 250 litres per day, which means the water available is more than enough.”
Juxtaposing the cost of sub-marine water against desalinated water, Becker adds: “In the Kingdom of Saudi Arabia, it costs SR 5 per cubic metre to desalinate water, whereas we can get it at SR 1 per cubic metre. So, with this technology, as long as we can find the springs, we can achieve the right costs. In fact, we have been working in Qatar for two years with the Supreme Council (now, Ministry of Environment, Qatar).”
Nymphea Environnement believes that the real cost is only at the stage of exploration, where ministries will have to pitch in to finance the research, as successful outcome of such surveys also depends on close collaboration with local authorities and experts.
If, indeed, Nymphea Environnement’s technology proves to be all that it claims to be, with its attendant benefits, in the long run, it might prove to be a sound investment.
Zero energy is used to harvest the water, which ensures a low and stable water selling price, zero greenhouse gas emission, so it is eligible to Emissions Trading Schemes, and zero impact on the neighbouring areas, as there are no side costs to integrate
Do your HVACR products or services increase energy efficiency in buildings, factories and other facilities? Do your products or services enhance energy efficiency of other key components? Can you contribute substantially to power reduction in new construction or in existing buildings?
• Be seen at a one-of-a-kind HVACR exhibition for the region. • Showcase energy efficiency to the region’s developers, consultants, contractors, utilities, policy makers and other key clients.
For EXHIBITIoN STANDS & SPoNSorSHIPS: For GENErAL quErIES:
B SurendarEditorial Director & Associate PublisherT: +971 (4) 3756831M: +971 (50) 509 2457F: +971 (4) 4341906E: [email protected]
Though air filtration is a silent worker, doing its job quietly in the background, little attention is paid to its selection and gauging its efficiency.
Making appropriate filter selection requires a
comprehensive understanding of the underlying parameters influencing, not only the air filter itself, but also the surrounding environment.
The right selection of an air filtration system needs to go through three stages:
The physical and chemical •characteristics of the aerosolThe filtration process itself•Verification that the •proposed filtration solution has, in fact, performed its function as per expectationsWhen the filtration process
is addressed, most people are interested only in the filter’s output, namely, clean air. Not much emphasis is placed on particle collection mechanisms, material properties, such as packing density and fibre-size distribution, which would greatly contribute to the filter performance characteristics – efficiency and pressure drop. But these preliminary steps are equally significant. Therefore, it is advisable and beneficial that, prior to engaging in filtration
selection, importance is given to the three main steps of selection, as illustrated in the Figure, opposite page.
aIr FILTraTIon SeLecTIonStage 1:The first thing to be considered is the physical and chemical characteristics of the aerosol. This is of a great importance from the point of view of filtration, environmental hygiene, medicine and toxicology. For example, dust poses a problem once it becomes
FILTRATION SELECTION - ELIMINATING ERRORS
spotlightThis is the eleventh in a multi-part series on air filtration.
T
In Part 11 of the series on air filtration, Dr Iyad Al-Attar explains the three vital stages of air filtration selection
and argues that efficient air filtration is a concept whose time has come.
airborne and is introduced into air filters. Therefore, the crucial step in conducting measurements is to obtain a representative sample of the aerosol under study.
The process of getting an estimate of and an insight into air filter performance cannot be completed without taking into account ambient conditions, such as temperature and relative humidity. They greatly affect the filter performance, and may also influence the filter design parameters and filter media selection.
Another aspect which needs to be considered is the geographic location. Atmospheric aerosol composition varies noticeably, depending on the selected position of the sampler relative to the pollution source originator and meteorology1. For example, when we examine the contaminant types, size distribution and concentrations near an airport, we would consider the jet engine exhaust as an additional particle generator. If the airport is surrounded by a desert, then the dust concentration is expected to be higher compared to other areas. Another example is a filter installation in the downtown area of a city with high-rise buildings. With busy traffic of heavy and light vehicles, their exhaust will certainly pose a great challenge to air filters installed in the air handling units. The high-rise buildings could act as street canyons to trap pollutants to further contribute to the number of contaminants and concentrations challenging air filters.
Another important example is a hospital where it is absolutely imperative not
only to condition the air prior to introducing it indoors, but also prior to exhausting it to the surrounding neighbourhood.
Stage 2:The second consideration
is the filtration process itself. Prior to making any further decisions in filter selection based on the characterisation of atmospheric pollutants – physical and chemical – in Stage 1, we need to decide what sort of contaminants have to be removed from the air stream and at what level of efficiency. Assuming that atmospheric dust is the prime concern, the second issue to be addressed would be ‘dust concentration’, as it would determine whether or not the filtration stages are needed.
Further, it is not possible to make an appropriate filter selection without considering the operational flow rate. Once the filtration stages are determined, the focus needs to shift to the filter type and design, to provide the required surface area and pressure drop for ensuring efficiency.
A critically important parameter in filtration is filter’s permeability. It is more relevant to consider permeability of the filter cartridge for evaluation than the flat sheet medium when considering full scale operations. This is because flat sheet permeability may be subject to alteration after pleating and constructed in the filter cartridge, which would lead to overall permeability reduction and consequential pressure drop increase.
Another advantage of characterising pollutants is that it helps determine whether outdoor or indoor pollutants are solid particles or gaseous pollutants. In the case of solid particles, appropriate mechanical filtration is sufficient to remove the particles. In gaseous pollutants, an adsorbent filter stage, such as activated carbon, is required.
It is also important to consider the life cycle of the filter, if the concentration, flow rate and the filtration stages have been chosen to provide the intended
efficiency. In addition to the filter media types, one should consider several other parameters, such as the packing density, average fibre diametre, fibre size distribution and its thickness. Needless to say, filtration media property, such as water repellency, is greatly needed for HVAC and gas turbine applications for coastal installations. Clearly, purchasing managers cannot merely regard the initial cost of the filter as the main selection criterion. In fact, a precise filtration plan is needed and should be the top
IT IS ALSO IMpORTANT TO CONSIDER ThE LIFE CyCLE OF ThE FILTER, IF ThE CONCENTRATION, FLOW RATE AND ThE FILTRATION STAGES hAVE BEEN ChOSEN TO pROVIDE ThE INTENDED EFFICIENCy
Figure: The three proposed segments of filtration considerations
priority, and not just the cost of the filter. In short, several important questions need to be asked:1. What is the filter up against in terms of contaminants?2. What do we hope the proposed filtration solution would remove?3. What do the filtration stages entail (fresh/pre/fine/absolute)?4. Is the mechanical filtration sufficient to confront contaminants and their concentrations?5. How would the entire filtration solution cohesively perform?
Stage 3:The third stage is mainly a process of verification that the proposed filtration solution has, in fact, performed to the level it was supposed to do. In clean room applications, the allowable presence of certain particle size distribution will determine the integrity of the air filter performance. Another important challenge to filter performance assessment and improved indoor air is infiltration, which is defined by ASHRAE2 as the unintentional or accidental introduction of outside air into a building, typically through cracks in the building envelope and through use of doors for passage. Equally important
is leakage-free installation in both air filter frames (header and holding) to ensure that the clean air produced is preserved.
TechnIQueS To conTroL aIr conTaMInanTS
Tackling air contaminants could range across the following parameters:Source control:
Taking an offensive measure by eliminating or reducing emission at the source Dilution:
Decreasing the pollutant concentration by means of mechanical ventilation Filtration:
Removing the contaminants by means of air filters
MeaSurIng IaQIn this regard, awareness regarding clean air and the methods to either provide it or preserve it are also of paramount importance. Such awareness is not only beneficial to building owners, maintenance directors, engineers and their crew, but also to human occupants.
In this regard, quantifying whether or not a building has an indoor air problem by the number of complaints the building manager receives, is an old-fashioned gauge to measure indoor air quality. The million dollar question is, why do we wait until symptoms emerge to put together an action plan to tackle the problems of indoor air quality? There are many air pollutants present in the indoor air with concentrations below the threshold that would trigger our human response system, causing irritation or health problems. It is imperative, therefore, that pollutant concentrations are measured on a regular basis to determine if a certain
concentration is soon going to exceed the specified threshold. We cannot allow contaminants to pose a threat to indoor space and its occupants, knowing that our homework is merely of a preventative nature.
caMPaIgn For Zero ToLeranceWe design and construct indoor spaces and lock ourselves in them most of the time. We seem to be very tolerant in allowing unpleasant and harmful pollutants to invade our indoor spaces, multiply and elevate their concentration, until our human immune system triggers health issues. Air contamination requires early detection in order to identify, control and then eliminate it before it gets us.
Certainly, our responsibilities do not end by merely investigating the interrelated filtration performance parameters to make appropriate filter selection. It goes far and beyond this to control the indoor and the outdoor pollution sources and propose the filtration line of defense to ensure clean air can both be produced and preserved.
Today, we are equipped with state-of-the-art spectroscopic analytical technologies, lasers, and powerful computers – tools that were not available 60 years ago, though many advances were made at the time. This is simply to state that human psyche is ready, capable and willing to make technological dreams come true.
Would we have built gigantic shopping malls without power plants to generate the required energy output? Would we have even
considered such projects without the existence of HVAC systems? Throughout history, human beings have always had ambitious dreams and have attempted to achieve, not only the improbable, but also the impossible.
There have been many human aspirations that took a long time before they were realised. The helicopter can be cited as an example. The first major development can be traced back to the early 1480s when Leonardo da Vinci produced a machine design concept for vertical flying3. However, it was not until 1936 that the first helicopter came into operation, and subsequently reached full-scale production in 19423a. Today, there are many possibilities for innovations that would make history in the future. But we cannot wait for four centuries to see them take shape. Similarly, the innovations in the field of air filtration have to happen now.
TODAy, WE ARE EqUIppED WITh STATE-OF-ThE-ART SpECTROSCOpIC ANALyTICAL TEChNOLOGIES, LASERS, AND pOWERFUL COMpUTERS – TOOLS ThAT WERE NOT AVAILABLE 60 yEARS AGO
The writer is Regional Director, Middle East, and International Consultant, EMW Filtertechnik, Germany. He can be contacted at [email protected].
reFerenceS:1 Analytical Chemistry of Eerosol, edited by Kvetoslav Rudolf Spurny, Lewis Publisher, 1999.2 Fundamentals Volume of the ASHRAE Handbook, Ch. 27, ASHRAE Inc, 2005.3 & 3a www.wikipedia.org
The capacities of Air Cooled Chillers range from 47TR actual to 283TR actual available with both R22 & R 407C refrigerant
is established at ICAD-1, Mussafah Industrial Area, Abu Dhabi, with total area of 450,000 sq.ft and Phase 1 has built up area of 130,000 sq.ft. GAMI is successfully producing Air Cooled
Package Chillers in technical collaboration and under license from Hitachi Ltd., Japan and the company is also producing chilled water fan coil units, standard
air handling units and special applied air handling units, suitable for standard and district cooling chilled water applications.
Air Handling Units are of modular design in 15 models, with air fl ow ranging from 2250 cu.m/h up to 77,800 cu.m/h, suitable for both standard and district cooling applications.
Fan Coil Units are available for Low Static and High Static applications with air fl ow range from 496 cu.m/h up to 3355 cu.m/h, suitable for both standard and district cooling applications.
district cooling chilled water applications.
AIR COOLED CHILLERS
AIR HANDLING UNITS FAN COIL UNITS
GULF AIR CONDITIONINGMANUFACTURING INDUSTRIES LLC (GAMI)
