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Feature that the unit is revived and aligned with current industry standards ,” he says .
While the return on investment ( ROI ) of refurbishment clearly varies with individual circumstances , Willemse notes that based on specific projects and Mitsubishi ' s past experiences , payback periods typically range from three to five years with the energy savings being the driving force behind such a refurbishment decision , providing long-term benefits and sustainability .
Recognising the scarcity of skilled personnel in the industry , Mitsubishi Electric has taken a proactive stance by offering installation and maintenance courses . The company ' s training programmes extend beyond contractors to end-users , ensuring that clients ’ internal staff are equipped with the skills needed for effective AHU maintenance .
“ Maintenance is more than just routine tasks like cleaning filters – it involves a deep understanding of the equipment . Mitsubishi ' s systems training includes embedded functions that record operational data , enabling service technicians to proactively address potential issues . This is important knowledge for maintenance personnel , enabling them to leverage the full capabilities of the equipment ,” says Willemse .
R & D OUTLOOK Ferdinandi highlights two key priorities for Mitsubishi : energysaving solutions and environmentally friendly systems . “ One development in HVAC systems is utilising chilled water as a medium for heat transfer reflecting a commitment to efficiency and sustainability . The other priority is safety through ongoing efforts to create systems that are not only environmentally friendly but also safe for users .”
Because closed loop systems use water as a transfer medium for heat energy , it minimises leakages and provides a safer alternative , especially considering potential future regulations regarding refrigerants . Regarding these imminent changes in refrigerants , Ferdinandi notes that Mitsubishi is proactively developing systems that address environmental concerns and prioritise user safety .
Mitsubishi ' s latest innovation is a generation of small heat pump chillers , capable of delivering as low as seven kilowatts .
“ These chillers can be employed to drive AHUs , offering an environmentally safe and efficient alternative which is costeffective for sites such as hospital theatre systems .”
He highlights the shift from a time when the industry had to work with off-the-shelf solutions to the present , where consulting engineers and customers enjoy a more fortunate position . “ The ability to customise and bespoke AHUs to meet specific needs has become a key advantage . Consulting engineers can now design systems tailored for various applications , from open-plan spaces to specialised environments like operating theatres . This flexibility in design allows for countless iterations and adaptations to unique requirements , creating a stimulating environment for R & D . “ This makes for an exciting time due to the variety of opportunities that arise from the flexibility and customisation now possible in AHU design . The ability to address diverse needs and specifications has opened up new avenues for innovation , making R & D a dynamic and evolving field within the industry ,” says Ferdinandi . RACA
REFERENCES 1 . Airnectics 2 . Daikin 3 . HC Airconditioners 4 . Carrier resources : https :// www . ahi-carriersa . co . za 5 . Carrier Technical Development Programs - TDP 611 Central Station Air Handlers : https :// www . alarko-carrier . com . tr / en / air-handling-unit
“ Another instance where refurbishment is viable , is where the internal AHU unit is still in good condition but requires technological upgrades .”
www . refrigerationandaircon . co . za RACA Journal I March 2024 27