www . refrigerationandaircon . co . za RACA Journal I March 2025 33
Project
The inclusion of plug fans and other components from multiple suppliers , such as HC Aircon and Ziehl Abegg , further boosts the system ' s efficiency . By sourcing these parts in bulk , VMG helps Pick n Pay achieve cost savings while maintaining high-quality performance . Additionally , the company secured a 10-year warranty on compressors from several respected manufacturers , thanks to their rigorous maintenance standards .
“ The beauty of plug fans lies in their ability to provide exact air quantities with ease . Unlike traditional belt-driven centrifugal fans , which often require
Compact standard package unit converted . cumbersome adjustments to pulleys and tight deadlines , it ’ s essential to work closely with manufacturers belts , plug fans allow for straightforward tuning . This capability to speed up the process . In one Pick n Pay refurbishment , new
ensures that we can achieve the exact air flows we require and equipment was urgently needed . By coordinating with the corresponding energy savings .” manufacturer and stressing the time sensitivity , the team was
Plug fans are especially efficient because their power able to have a new unit manufactured in just six weeks , instead of consumption decreases substantially as airflow is reduced . the usual 12-week lead time .
“ When we decrease the air flow by a small margin , the power
In settings like supermarkets , where continuous operation is consumption decreases significantly . This results in substantial essential , the challenge lies in completing refurbishments swiftly
energy savings , which is crucial for maintaining operational while minimising disruption to daily activities . “ It ’ s essential to efficiency and reducing costs ,” Pengelly explains . plan refurbishments in stages , ensuring that air conditioning Furthermore , the introduction of computer programs and systems remain functional for as long as possible throughout
advanced design tools has revolutionised the way air conditioning the process . More peripheral work , such as painting and lighting , systems are designed and replaced . Previously , systems can be deferred in order to accelerate the installation and were manually designed using basic tools , often resulting in commissioning of the critical equipment ”. inefficiencies . “ Forty years ago , system design relied on manual Refurbishment usually entails incorporating new
calculations and estimates . Even now , old systems are simply components and technologies to boost performance . For replaced on a ‘ like-for-like ’ basis with no consideration given that example , HC Aircon and Ziehl Abegg supply updated parts like the original systems could well have been over-designed .” coils and plug fans , which are key to modernising older units .
Today , the industry benefits from not only advanced
These components typically deliver improved efficiency and computer programs but also artificial intelligence . However , some practices still remain stuck in the past . “ The use of advanced design tools should be standard practice , not optional . We have access to powerful software that can perform detailed heat load analyses and optimise system design ”.
“ When we decrease the air
Revamping air conditioning units is an ongoing process that flow by a small margin , the demands careful planning and a critical approach . Pengelly power consumption decreases explains that the success of a refurbishment depends on determining whether a unit can be effectively upgraded or if a significantly . This results in full replacement is necessary . This evaluation often involves a substantial energy savings ” detailed assessment of the existing system , weighing both the potential advantages and constraints of refurbishment .
Successful refurbishments often rely on strong collaboration with contractors and suppliers . For example , when faced with
www . refrigerationandaircon . co . za RACA Journal I March 2025 33