Show Management today announced the winners of the 2019 AHR Expo Innovation Awards competition. Each year, products in 10 different categories are recognized for being some of the HVACR industry’s most innovative products, systems and technologies. Winners will be featured at the Show in Atlanta in January 2019. Winners were selected by a panel of Read more
HVAC
Show Management today announced the winners of the 2019 AHR Expo Innovation Awards competition. Each year, products in 10 different categories are recognized for being some of the HVACR industry’s most innovative products, systems and technologies. Winners will be featured at the Show in Atlanta in January 2019.
Winners were selected by a panel of third-party ASHRAE member judges who evaluated each award entry based on its innovative design, creativity, application, value and market impact. Winners from each award category will be formally recognized during the 2019 AHR Expo, Jan. 14–16 at the Georgia World Congress in Atlanta. The ceremony is open to all Show attendees and is slated for January 15 at 1:00 PM EST. The AHR Expo will also announce this year’s winner of the highly-anticipated Product of the Year Award at the ceremony.
“Every year we look forward to award submissions that set the bar for innovation and professional practices in HVACR,” said Clay Stevens, manager of AHR Expo. “Year after year we continue to receive entries that exceed our expectations. We congratulate these winners as leaders from across all facets of the industry and look forward to seeing these inventive solutions at the 2019 AHR Expo and in real-world practice.”
Winners and finalists selected within the categories of building automation, cooling, green building, heating, indoor air quality, plumbing, refrigeration, software, tools and instruments, and ventilation are:
BUILDING AUTOMATION
Winner: Automated Logic Corporation (Booth C5731)
Innovation: OptiFlex™ virtual integrator is a software-based integration platform for data monitoring across diverse building systems. OptiFlex™ provides scalable integration solutions ideal for large integration projects such as data centers, hospitals and college campuses. The virtual integrator supports up to 50,000 data points from a single computing point, eliminating the need for multiple hardware gateways, which often require costly materials and labor, and have installation limitations due to space constraints in most mechanical rooms. It supports BACnet IP and Modbus TCP/IP, the two most commonly used IP-based protocols, as well as a new pluggable protocol technology that allows additional protocol additions. Customers can add additional points as needed through a scalable licensing mechanism.
Finalists in this category include: Building Automation Products, Inc./BAPI (BAPI Wireless 900 MHz Temperature and Humidity System); Delta Controls Inc. (O3 Sensor Hub); and Emerson (Supervisory Controls).
COOLING
Winner: Johnson Controls, Inc. (Booth B1617)
Innovation: YORK® YZ Magnetic Bearing Centrifugal Chiller, a fully-optimized chiller, is built with next-generation low-global warming potential (GWP) refrigerant to increase energy efficiency. The YORK® YZ provides centrifugal-chiller energy efficiencies as low as 0.1kW/ton, and less in off-design conditions where typical fixed-speed chillers experience performance issues. It has the potential to reduce annual electricity consumption by an average of 35 percent. The YORK® YZ was designed with a holistic approach to system design, with engineering optimization for every component around R-1233zd—a next generation, low-pressure refrigerant—and is a unique combination of advanced technologies, including a variable-speed magnetic bearing compressor, high-speed hermetic induction motor, falling film evaporator, adaptive capacity control logic and cloud-based analytics.
Finalists in this category include: ArctiChill (ACA or ACW Magnetic Bearing Chillers with Arctic Boost Option); Chemours (Opteon™ XP30 refrigerant); and Samsung HVAC of America (Wind-Free™ 4-way cassette mini-split).
GREEN BUILDING
Winner: enVerid Systems (Booth B1061)
Innovation: HVAC Load Reduction® (HLR) module 1000E-M, an indoor air scrubber module designed to lower energy wastage from HVAC systems, reduces the amount of outside air needed for ventilation by 60-80 percent. This results in increased energy efficiency and annual energy savings of 20-30 percent with peak capacity reductions of 1020 tons per HLR® 1000E-M module. The HLR® 1000E-M is fully compliant with ASHRAE Standard 62.1 Indoor Air Quality Procedure (IAQP) and the international mechanical code (IMC). The innovative design is a first-of-its-kind solution that safely removes all molecular contaminants, including carbon dioxide (CO2), formaldehyde and a full range of volatile organic compounds (VOCs) from indoor air.
Finalists in this category include: Carrier (AquaEdge® 19DV centrifugal chiller); Smardt Chiller Group Inc. (Smardt DC water cooled chiller); and Software Motor Company (SMC Smart Motor System).
HEATING
Winner: Regal® (Booth B1639)
Innovation: Genteq® Ensite® motor, an electronically commutated motor specifically designed for furnace application, enables customers to comply with the U.S. Department of Energy’s (DOE) Fan Energy Rating (FER) regulatory requirements taking effect in July of 2019. The Genteq® Ensite® motor is a cost-efficient solution to achieving compliance without compromising on premium features such as advanced Blak Box™ and Near Field Communication (NFC) capabilities that support Internet of Things (IoT) and preventive maintenance.
Finalists in this category include: ArctiChill (SuperMod variable speed modular chiller platform); Des Champs Technologies (Model Air-Trap™ IPN); and Emerson (Universal single-stage furnace control for ECMx blower motor).
INDOOR AIR QUALITY
Winner: CPS Products, Inc. (Booth B3553)
Innovation: IAQ SmartAir™ is a smart tool used for identifying, diagnosing and solving IAQ issues. This tool is designed to diagnose more accurate true read indoor air quality issues, improve sales and enhance overall IAQ professional expertise. Its design walks professionals through the measuring process and provides a compiled list of IAQ issues and potential solutions based on collected and analyzed data. The IAQ SmartAir™ connects to the internet via WiFi for remote monitoring and evaluation, and allows professionals to create on-site customer reports and job quotations.
Finalists in this category include: Fresh-Aire UV (Mini UV DST-LED disinfection system for mini-split A/C systems); and Nortec [Condair] (DRAABE TrePur humidifier and evaporative cooler).
PLUMBING
Winner: Anvil International (Booth C6625)
Innovation: AnvilPress™ Copper, Copper Press Fittings and Coupling Systems are designed with patented Visual Indicator technology that provides 200 percent more sealing surface than typical fittings for leak prevention. The system is built with a double-fold sealing characteristic and a replaceable O-ring seal design that supports superior pressure and tensile performance. Its Virtual Indicator and Burr-Stop membrane solve the top two causes of leaks: improperly pressed fittings and burrs on the tube that damage the O-ring during installation.
Finalists in this category include: Caleffi Hydronic Solutions (ThermoSetter™ thermal balancing valve); Emerson (RIDGID Press Booster & rings for MegaPress® XL); and Noritz America (Noritz Residential Combination Boiler).
REFRIGERATION
Winner: Emerson (Booth B2219)
Innovation: Copeland Scroll™ fractional-horsepower, low-temperature compressors use liquid injection technology and cooling discharge temperatures to reduce compressor stress and meet federal regulatory requirements. With offerings ranging from ¾ to 1 ½, OEMs can combine certain compliance efforts into a single design cycle for smaller low-tomedium temperature applications that deliver high efficiency with reliable performance. The Copeland Scroll™ is wide-ranged and multi-refrigerant capable with low sound and vibration. It is an ideal solution for supermarkets, restaurants and convenience store operations.
Finalists in this category include: Baltimore Aircoil Company (TrilliumSeries™ adiabatic condenser); and DunAn Microstaq, Inc. (Silicon Refrigeration Valve).
SOFTWARE
Winner: Taco Comfort Solutions (Booth B2239)
Innovation: Taco Tags featuring eLink™ is a cloud-based support program that provides users with a web-based, factory-maintained knowledge base on their mobile device via NFC technology. The Taco Tag is an IC chip and antenna wrapped in silicone designed to offer durability under the most extreme conditions of heat and weather. It works using power from a user’s devices, eliminating the need for wires or external batteries. Each tag provides direct access to customer support, along with all vital information specific to each product, and is connected to the eLink cloud-based service system where users can store and access order information, product specifications, instruction sheets, suggested replacement parts, CAD files, technical support, catalogs, local sales representative information and project management.
Finalists in this category include: BreezoMeter Ltd. (Air quality and pollen data API); and Emerson (Sensi™ Multiple Thermostat Manager).
TOOLS & INSTRUMENTS
Winner: Dwyer Instruments, Inc. (Booth C5407)
Innovation: The Wireless Hydronic Balancing Kit, Series 490W, is a manometer designed to provide accurate and easy operation for HVAC professionals. The kit measures the pressure drop across HVAC balancing valves by using wireless sensors, a versatile handheld and Bluetooth® communication. Users can select valves for measurement from a predetermined list or through manual input of CV values. The handheld monitor allows for the flow of up to three valves at a time, with a single operator to monitor and balance a hydronic system in less time compared to traditional methods.
Finalists in this category include: Marketair, Inc. (Easybend); and Ritchie Engineering Co., Inc. (YELLOW JACKET P51-870 TITAN Digital Manifold).
VENTILATION
Winner: Energy Wall, LLC (Booth B268)
Innovation: The Energy Wall Universal ERV (U-ERV) is an energy recovery ventilator that is three times smaller and lighter than current technologies available on the market. It weighs only 90 pounds, allowing for easy installation of the fully-functional, independent system. A small footprint allows the modules to be hand-carried and assembled on site, where they operate with a single duct connection and point-of-power and control. This provides extreme redundancy for mission-critical facilities. It is also compliant with UL 900 fire/smoke standards and operates in all six orientations.
Finalists in this category include: Continental Fan Manufacturing Inc. (TEK-MAX plug fan); LG Electronics USA, Inc. (LG AHU conversion kit); and Triatek (EcoAir Valve™).
For more information regarding the AHR Expo Innovation Awards, visit the awards section on the AHR Expo website.
The AHR Expo provides a unique forum for industry professionals to meet under one roof to share ideas, discover new products and technologies and find solutions to the industry’s technical problems. To register, visit the AHR registration website.
For more information about the 2019 AHR Expo or the Innovation Awards Competition, please visit ahrexpo.com. Specific questions regarding 2020 Innovation Awards and entry processes can be emailed to kpires@iecshows.com.
Emphasizing the importance of continued support for career and technical education to help grow the middle class, U.S. Representative Raja Krishnamoorthi (D-IL 8th District) last week visited the innovative learning labs at the College of DuPage Technical Education Center. The center, located on the College’s Glen Ellyn campus, includes 31 classrooms, 16 state-of-the-art laboratories to accommodate Read more
Emphasizing the importance of continued support for career and technical education to help grow the middle class, U.S. Representative Raja Krishnamoorthi (D-IL 8th District) last week visited the innovative learning labs at the College of DuPage Technical Education Center.
The center, located on the College’s Glen Ellyn campus, includes 31 classrooms, 16 state-of-the-art laboratories to accommodate 1,400 students, as well as space for raw material and vehicular storage. In addition, an adjacent greenhouse provides a hands-on laboratory for Horticulture students.
Home to the College’s Architecture, Interior Design, Horticulture, Automotive Technology, Computer-Aided Design, Construction Management, Electro-Mechanical Technology, Electronics-Integrated Engineering Technology, Manufacturing Technology, Welding Technology, and Heating, Ventilation, Air Conditioning and Refrigeration programs, the LEED-certified center features two windmills and four solar panels on its roof to provide students with hands-on study of emerging wind/solar energy technologies.
“Everywhere I look, I see a glimpse of something even more interesting, even more innovative, even more thought provoking,” said Krishnamoorthi. “I am proud of what you are doing (at College of DuPage) and what we’re accomplishing in Washington to create more job training and job opportunities to help grow the middle class.”
The Carl D. Perkins Career and Technical Education Law is the primary federal funding vehicle for skills-based education in the country. Krishnamoorthi and Glenn “G.T.” Thompson of Pennsylvania championed the Strengthening Career and Technical Education for the 21st Century Act, a bipartisan bill and the first reauthorization of the Perkins CTE Act since 2006. Both the House of Representatives and Senate passed the new act, nicknamed Perkins V, and at the end of July, it was signed into law and will go into effect July 1, 2019. Funding will increase during these years, up to $1.3 billion by 2024, while major reforms strengthen what is in place, including special emphasis on career paths.
In FY19, College of DuPage received $1.403 million through a formula that considers the number of students eligible for Pell grants who declare interest in a CTE program. Perkins funding plays a key role in programs throughout campus, including the HVACR program where funding has enabled students to build their own systems trainers.
“Everything you see in this lab is built by our students, not contractors,” said HVACR Program Coordinator Bob Clark. “Everything from the pumps, to the concrete poured for the bases, to all the piping systems that you see running in the lab and students have to manage that so that it’s comfortable.
College of DuPage President Dr. Ann Rondeau applauded Krishnamoorthi and his colleagues for their diligence in crafting a supporting bipartisan legislation that directly benefits job seekers.
“Your dedication to workforce development is to be commended,” she said. “You have been so helpful and a great leader in securing more Perkins funding, which College of DuPage and other institutions may use, in turn, to provide skilled workers to a number of industries.”
Learn more about Career and Technical Education at College of DuPage.
College of DuPage is regionally accredited by the Higher Learning Commission. Serving approximately 25,000 students each term, College of DuPage is the largest public community college in the state of Illinois. The College grants seven associate degrees and offers more than 170 career and technical certificates in over 50 areas of study.
Johnson Controls has released the newest addition to their premium line of residential systems, the YORK® Affinity™ Series YZT two-stage Heat Pump. The ENERGY STAR® rated heat pump delivers advanced efficiencies and smart home capabilities. The 19 SEER, 10.0 HSPF efficiency can save homeowner’s up to 47 percent on energy use. Even greater efficiency can Read more
Johnson Controls has released the newest addition to their premium line of residential systems, the YORK® Affinity™ Series YZT two-stage Heat Pump. The ENERGY STAR® rated heat pump delivers advanced efficiencies and smart home capabilities.
The 19 SEER, 10.0 HSPF efficiency can save homeowner’s up to 47 percent on energy use. Even greater efficiency can be achieved when installed with the Alexa® compatible, Wi-Fi®-enabled Affinity™ Hx3™ Touch-screen smart Thermostat. When connected, the combination offers top-of-the-line features for both homeowners and contractors.
Homeowners can now control and monitor their home comfort system by voice command using an Amazon Alexa® device or, remotely using the Hx® app. Contractors can expect easy setup and support thanks to near field communication, a set of short-range wireless technologies and a dedicated distributor app.
“With the addition of the YZT heat pump, we offer a truly comprehensive package of energy-efficient solutions to help contractors meet the needs of homeowners at any budget,” said Liz Haggerty, vice president and general manager, Ducted Systems, Johnson Controls.
Several additional innovations enhance the system’s performance:
- QuietDrive™ incorporates a sound-reducing swept-wing fan blade, composite base pan and sound containment cloak to reduce typical outdoor operating sound levels.
- ClimaTrak™—allows further fine-tuning of the blower for specific applications, whether to compensate for arid environments or maximize the use of additional air quality accessories including system-matched humidifiers, germ-killing UVC lights and high-efficiency MERV 16-rated filtration, for reduced dust and contaminants.
- A two-stage compressor for quiet and efficient operation.
- A compact footprint without sacrificing performance.
- An automotive-grade powder coat finish rated at 1,000 hours of salt spray to ensure the unit can withstand harsh weather conditions.
- Auto configuration and auto system updates via Wi-Fi® when installed as a communicating system.
- YZT can be sold as a complete Affinity™ residential system or as a premium upgrade to an existing system.
Designed, engineered and assembled in the United States, system components are backed by the manufacturing expertise of Fortune 100 parent company Johnson Controls and an unmatched limited one-year labor warranty, lifetime compressor and 10-year parts limited warranties on registered products. Highly Accelerated Life Testing (HALT) facilities aid in the systematic testing of components, including more than 20 years of accelerated operation testing for weather, humidity and temperatures as high as 125° F and as low as -10° F to ensure lasting performance and world-class quality.
In addition, units meet AHRI Standard 210/240 and 340/360 at AHRI conditions and meet relevant ASHRAE 90.1, ENERGY STAR® and EPAct2005 standards.
To learn more about YORK®, visit www.YORK.com. Also follow on YouTube, Instagram, Facebook and @YORKHVAC on Twitter.
Weil-McLain®, a leading designer and manufacturer of hydronic comfort heating systems for residential, commercial and institutional buildings, has named Michael Langen as its director of sales. He will be based at the company’s Burr Ridge, Ill., headquarters. As director of sales, Langen is responsible for leading the US sales organization in executing Weil-McLain’s growth strategy, including Read more
Weil-McLain®, a leading designer and manufacturer of hydronic comfort heating systems for residential, commercial and institutional buildings, has named Michael Langen as its director of sales. He will be based at the company’s Burr Ridge, Ill., headquarters.
As director of sales, Langen is responsible for leading the US sales organization in executing Weil-McLain’s growth strategy, including channel management and contractor engagement initiatives.
Langen has more than 20 years of experience in sales strategy and execution. Most recently, he was the sales director for the electrical and hydronic business at Honeywell International.
“Michael’s deep experience as a hydronics sales leader and his proven track record of using advanced selling tools to drive growth will help build on our recent successes and keep us well positioned for the future,” said John Swann, president of Weil-McLain. “We are excited to welcome him to the team and look forward to his leadership as we continue to execute on our growth strategy.”
Langen has a Bachelor’s degree in Political Science from Northern Illinois University and an MBA from Keller Graduate School of Management.
Lennox Industries, a leading provider of innovative home comfort solutions, today launched Feel The Love in partnership with its dealers, a North American community outreach initiative focused on providing home comfort to families in need. The Lennox Feel The Love program invites individuals and local organizations in participating areas to nominate families or individuals in Read more
Lennox Industries, a leading provider of innovative home comfort solutions, today launched Feel The Love in partnership with its dealers, a North American community outreach initiative focused on providing home comfort to families in need.
The Lennox Feel The Love program invites individuals and local organizations in participating areas to nominate families or individuals in their communities to receive heating equipment at no cost, including installation. Recipients are chosen based on a variety of criteria, including physical, mental, or social disabilities; financial challenges; job loss; military service; and community service. Nominations are accepted through the Feel The Love website now through September 5.
On Saturday, October 6, all participating Lennox dealers will install new, high-efficiency Lennox gas furnaces for the selected candidates at no cost, and the dealers and their employees donate their labor and installation materials.
“Feel The Love is all about creating connections with the communities in which Lennox and its dealers live and work, to lend a helping hand by bringing comfort to deserving families,” said
Stephanie Bond, retail marketing director at Lennox Industries. “We’re proud of the incredible partnerships between Lennox and its dealers, as well as community organizations throughout North America, and we’re excited to continue to grow the program to serve even more individuals and families in need in the years to come.”
Feel The Love began as the Heat U.P. program, launched in 2009 as a pilot community initiative in four markets across the U.S., including Michigan, Minnesota, Wisconsin and Illinois. In 2018, the program will expand to communities across twenty states and five provinces in Canada, with the goal to continue to expand efforts to even more communities throughout North America.
For more information about the Feel The Love program, visit www.FeelTheLove.com/history.