www . refrigerationandaircon . co . za RACA Journal I March 2024 31
Feature
Upgrades and innovations : 1 . Upgrade older equipment :
• Consider upgrading older AHUs to newer , energyefficient models .
2 . Intelligent sensors and controls :
• Implement smart controls for automated AHU operation based on occupancy and weather conditions , enhancing performance and maximising energy savings .
Single Skin AHU .
Monitoring and adjustments : 1 . Temperature and humidity levels :
• Monitor air temperature and humidity to align with desired comfort settings . Adjust thermostat settings and AHU controls accordingly .
2 . Qualified HVAC technician :
• Engage a qualified HVAC technician for regular comprehensive inspections and servicing .
Adhering to these recommendations and proactively maintaining your AHU guarantees optimal performance , improved energy efficiency , and a comfortable indoor environment . Remember that AHU maintenance specifics may vary , so consult your AHU manual or a qualified HVAC technician for personalised instructions and recommendations . RACA
“ Fouling in HRWs leads to increased pressure loss and wheel deformation and jamming .”
PREVENTATIVE MAINTENANCE ISSUES AROUND AHUS Preventative maintenance is certainly not a new concept , nor is the knowledge that it is often overlooked . In the HVAC industry it is easy to see why this may occur as air handling units are hidden from view and their final product is air , providing little evidence of the neglect in maintenance or the cost thereof .
Inspecting AHUs for replacements , repairs and retrofits have provided an opportunity to see the state that units are left to deteriorate to on site , resulting in multiple concerns and costs . Dirty filters lead to high pressure losses , increasing power consumption . Incorrectly installed or missing filters lead to fouling of coils , fans and rotating heat recover wheels . Fouling in HRWs leads to increased pressure loss and wheel deformation and jamming , ultimately causing the wheel to fail and need to be replaced in its entirety . Neglect of filters and air intake covers compromise the air cleanliness and possibility of pests to enter an AHU , resulting in serious health hazards . Water accumulation or ingresses in an AHU from blocked drains , dirty coils or incorrect operation , as well as salt build-up in coastal areas , results in decay of metal framework and sheets as well as rotting of insulating material with the potential to reduce the life cycle of equipment .
Even in cases where AHUs are not exposed to harsh operating environments or neglected to the point where equipment fails or is beyond repair , preventative maintenance remains critical to minimise operating costs through power
consumption , and to optimise the operation of equipment to provide the most satisfying air conditioning for the client .
THE FUTURE OF TROX XE-CUBE AHUS TROX specialises in producing bespoke AHUs to suit the specific requirements of each individual project , such as the air purification units APUs produced for various hospitals during the Covid-19 pandemic . With an extensive history in the industry and a wealth of knowledge as a global HVAC company TROX are able to produce AHUs for all thermal comfort , humidity control , energy saving and specialised air quality requirements , while utilising a tried-and-tested construction to offer a versatile , robust and economical product to suit the South African Market . Having been tested to the EN 1886 European standards , TROX guarantee the unmatched quality of our AHUs .
TROX South Africa are developing the next generation of AHU / RTPU . Forming strategic partnerships locally and drawing from our international subsidiaries ’ knowledge , TROX are working to incorporate all refrigerant cycle components as well as preprogrammed TROX developed controls into a complete AHU to offer clients a plug-and-play solution . The benefits of doing so include reducing the installation and commissioning time , reducing the overall footprint of HVAC equipment , and creating a single point of contact to clients with the most satisfactory product and service .
Source : Supplied by Trox
www . refrigerationandaircon . co . za RACA Journal I March 2024 31