EME Newsletter MEssage #02/2022

NEWSLETTER
MESSAGE
NEWSLETTER FROM EUROVENT MIDDLE EAST
SEPTEMBER 2022 VOL. 07
HVACR 2030:
Rethinking policies and strategies
A look at challenges
and opportunities in the Middle East
www.eurovent.me

NEWSLETTER
CONTENTS
01 Letter to the industry
02 Guest Article: The Missing Links - Energy Efficiency
in the Middle East
03 Interview: Meeting the challenges of 2022 and beyond
04 Guest Article: What role does the HVAC industry
play in decarbonisation?
05 Guest Article: Why the slow move back to normal
should be an opportunity for the HVAC sector to step up
06 Feature: The roadmap to securing better IAQ
07 Feature: ISO 16890 - The Global Air Filtration Standard
08 Guest Article: Let´s get the facts straight regarding performance
certification for AHUs
09 Technical Paper: Selecting the right refrigerant
for your commercial applications
10 Feature: The chill factor
11 Feature: Fanning a critical discussion
12 Technical Paper: Roadmap to more efficient data centre cooling
in the Middle East
13 Technical Paper: How can active front-end drives boost energy
efficiency and save on capital costs?
14 Technical Paper: Review of Certification Procedure
for Inverter Air Conditioner
15 Feature: The ROI on talent: Educating both sides
of the equation
MESSAGE
LETTER
TO THE INDUSTRY
The road ahead
On the occasion of Eurovent Middle East's 5-year
anniversary, we reflect on the Association's journey since
entering the region. As an Association that has managed
to withstand the challenges of the past few years, from
overcoming entrenched mindsets to operating midst
the uncertainty of the global pandemic, the success and
milestones that have been achieved would not be possible
without the dedicated efforts of members that have
invested their time and resources to share knowledge,
expertise, and insights in an effort to build bridges.
We of course also depend on numerous people within
government and private organisations, which make a
difference with their work, dedication and passion in
their daily work, and without whom we would not be able
to progress. These are the people and organisations,
Eurovent Middle East is honouring with a recognition
during its Gala Dinner. As a simple, but sincere thanks
from our members and staff.
The spirit of collaboration has always been a guiding
principle for the Association. As an organisation, we are
committed to fostering trust by operating as a neutral
platform for competitors to sit side-by-side to work
together for the benefit of the HVACR industry and society.
Such cooperation is key in a region almost entirely
dependent on cooling for the peoples' comfort and the
operation of critical sectors.
The Middle East still has a long way to go to enhance
capacity building, and the region has unique challenges.
Prioritising capital costs over long-term gains from
more efficient solutions, non-existent or differing energy
performance standards that require greater clarity, or gaps
in knowledge from design to operation: Effecting a mindset
shift is not easy and requires time and constant efforts.
There is still a long road ahead, and we must work closely
together to plant the seed of education and awareness to
ensure the current and developing building landscape can
support the region's sustainability and socio-economic
goals. We look forward to working with governments and
the industry to plant the seeds of progress for the future.
This is also a call of encouragement to all industry players,
be it manufacturers, distributors, system integrators,
developers, or designers. Come on board and join us
to shape the future together. We need such a platform
for exchange in the region, which Eurovent Middle East
is providing. The more we make use of it, the more we
grow it, the bigger the positive impact we can have on the
market, on environment, and on our businesses.
Thank you for being with us on this occaision, and we look
forward to engage with you for many years to come.
Best regards,
Tariq Al Ghussein
President
Eurovent Middle East
www.eurovent.me SEPTEMBER 2022 VOL. 07

NEWSLETTER
GUEST ARTICLE
The Missing Links - Energy
efficiency in the Middle East
The Middle East depends like no other region on cooling and refrigeration. With
renewable energy still lagging behind, the region is forced to rely on fossil fuels
to generate its electricity demand. This doesn’t only strain the environment but
also national budgets, which could otherwise be used for more meaningful things.
Markus Lattner, Managing Director of Eurovent Middle East, outlines the strategic
importance of energy efficiency and what the region can do to maximise savings
and meet its sustainability targets.
As hospitable and welcoming as the
people of the Middle East may be,
its climate for sure isn’t. With water
being scarce and temperatures
peaking around 50 degrees C during
summer months, the Middle East
is completely reliant on cooling
and refrigeration to ensure its
economic and social development.
The region’s dependence on these
systems underlines the critical
role HVACR plays in all aspects of
modern society.
Comfort is only one aspect. We
also need to think of health care,
manufacturing processes, food
safety and data centre cooling to
fully understand that our industry is
the foundation of the region’s social
and economic development. This
is why Eurovent Middle East called
out during the pandemic to ensure
that HVACR companies would
be exempted from lockdowns as
essential businesses.
We must not overlook, however,
that with importance comes
responsibility. After all, the region
directs more than 50% of its energy
production into cooling. In some
locations, this figure can even
reach up to 70%. This may be only
a headache for governments with
plenty of fossil resources. But it
is a way more critical problem for
countries that depend on energy
imports. In times of climate change
and international treaties to reduce
greenhouse gas emissions, energy
efficiency becomes a matter of
national security.
The industry itself has made huge
investments in R&D, resulting in
significant technical improvements.
We can run data centres with
a return air temperature of 38
degrees C compared to 30 degrees
C about 10 years ago. We have
introduced flexibility in so many
parts, from variable speed and
frequency drives to variable
refrigerant flow, air volumes,
inverters and more, which enable
users to shift the control paradigm
from on/off to actual demand.
Yet, even the International Energy
Agency stated in its report in The
Future of Cooling: “The problem
is, today‘s consumers are not buying
the most efficient ACs. The average
efficiency of air conditioners sold
today is less than half of what is
typically available on the shelves
- and one-third of best available
technology.”
The technology is there, so why isn’t
it used?
It is worthwhile to look at the whole
value chain and see where efficiency
is lost to understand where the
biggest potential is for savings.
The energy footprint of a building’s
HVAC system does not depend on
the equipment alone. It is a mix of
the building envelop (architecture),
system design, quality of installation,
its operation and maintenance.
The building envelope is beyond
the reach and influence of our
industry and shall be put aside for
the following considerations. System
design, the decision which equipment
will be installed could reduce its
long-term energy impact by about
40% average if the most suitable
technology is chosen, correctly
designed and the most efficient
products on the market purchased.
The best plan can fail if it isn’t put
into action. We have witnessed too
many times that during construction
and installation, perfectly good
equipment and any energy efficiency
features were rendered void by
Markus Lattner
bad craftsmanship. Examples
include dampers not connected to
controllers, air ducts not connected
to outlets -- the list is endless.
Proper training and especially quality
requirements for commissioning
would provide a good 15 % of saving
potential on average
In operations, there is an opportunity
to reduce another 20% of energy
consumption, if facility or building
management would fully understand
the system they are operating, use
smart controls and demand-based
cooling and ventilation, or simply by
keeping doors closed and windows
shut when the air conditioning is on.
Additionally, preventive maintenance
carried out by trained and skilful
technicians, can improve the energy
performance of HVAC systems by
about 25%, while ensuring better
operational safety and improved
indoor air quality.
Although the values are simply
rough estimations by the industry
they exemplify the significant
saving potential compared to
current consumption levels. What
is needed is education, training, and
qualification on every professional
level, and shifting the mentalities
from capital investment thinking
to life cycle costs. Installing less
efficient and durable equipment
because it’s cheaper is a bad
business decision that ignores the
considerable cost effects of higher
energy consumption and earlier
replacement needs.
Rethinking policies and strategies
Every country is working on plans,
initiatives, and policies to reduce
carbon footprints. The region has
seen several important regulations
implemented with stricter limits
to the energy performance of
certain products. Minimum Energy
Performance Standards (MEPS)
can only address one aspect of the
overall problem. Such standards
are helpful but do not affect mental
or behavioural change towards
accepting and investing in higher
quality solutions.
We would need regulations in
a range of other areas, from
qualification requirements for
maintenance crews, technicians,
and installers to adjustments in
building codes, labour laws, and
building management regulations.
Undoubtedly, there is a lot of
complexity surrounding this issue,
and to move in the positive direction
so many different governing bodies
need to be involved.
A case for building inspection
In 2019, Eurovent Middle East
published a position paper on
mandatory building inspections. It
perfectly summarises the issues and
benefits a regulatory intervention
would achieve. With a relatively
simple measure, we could effect
this critical change in mindsets
and behaviours. With a recurrent
inspection routine, we would
quickly see the shift towards quality
equipment and service providers.
Simply because the life cycle costs
would become more important than
the initial investment.
There are numerous other
significant advantages to introducing
an inspection regime including
better operational and fire safety,
improved occupational health, food
safety, stimulation of the economy
and creation of quality jobs
The need for capacity building
One of the most essential initiatives
the region needs is capacity
building. We often forget that
even mechanical engineers only
go through two or three courses
related to thermodynamics. A lot
of the knowledge in the industry is
trained and educated on the job.
Due to the often volatile workforce
with frequent changes, much of this
experience is regularly lost.
The industry, along with government
and other organisations need to
bring more offers for continued
education to the region. We need
minimum qualification requirements
for technicians in charge of HVACR
installations. MEP engineers need
to have access to regular updates
on technical developments and
voluntary programmes where they
can study how to implement them.
Eurovent Middle East has organised
more than 20 workshops and
webinars on various topics in the
past five years. We have seen great
interest in our content and received
positive market feedback. We will
soon launch an HVACR Leadership
Academy to widen our services
to the region and its people. It
will allow the industry to inform
consultants about products and
solutions available in the market
and enable consultants to take more
informed decisions when designing
HVACR systems.
Energy efficiency in the Middle
East cannot be achieved without
education, shifting mindsets,
and joint efforts by governments,
industry, and associations.
Collaboration is needed for systems
and efficiencies to be improved. This
is the reason Eurovent Middle East
was createdfive years ago, enabling
stake holding and collaboration in
the region with an organisation from
the region, with members who care
for the region.
www.eurovent.me SEPTEMBER 2022 VOL. 07

NEWSLETTER
INTERVIEW
Meeting the challenges
of 2022 and beyond:
Fostering trust is
the way to go
Ahead of the 5 th anniversary congress, Tariq Al Ghussein, President of Eurovent
Middle East, reflects on the founding of the region’s first HVAC industry association,
challenges and opportunities in the road ahead and why fostering trust is critical in
forging the path forward…
As President of EUROVENT
Middle East and founding
member, how do you look at the
past five years?
The past five years have seen
us, as an organisation, and the
industry as a whole, evolve,
innovate, and adapt. Despite
multiple challenges – not
least a global pandemic and
the worldwide implications of
this – we’ve grown in support
and membership, which is no
mean feat. We’ve been active,
productive, and connected and
have evolved our structure, focus,
and team to meet the challenges
of the new normal for 2022 and
beyond.
What was your motivation for
supporting the establishment of
an association in the region?
The development of standards
and regulations is essential for
any industry, as it provides an
important roadmap for best
practices and accountability.
Ultimately, uniform standards for
a broader region would be more
economically beneficial, better for
the consumer and better for the
environment.
Eurovent Middle East was created
to promote transparency and
professionalism in our region.
We do this by drawing on the
benefit of experience from more
mature regulatory markets,
where we’ve seen the importance
of an informed and connected
neutral body, such as Eurovent,
in aiding the implementation
of the regulatory framework
and connecting manufacturers
and other stakeholders with
Government bodies.
Why is trust critical for progress of
the industry and what can Eurovent
Middle East do to foster that kind of
trust?
Cooperation, collaboration and
co-creation are our watchwords.
We focus on the technicalities, on
issues, and not on commercial
priorities, and that in itself creates
trust. Eurovent Middle East has no
agenda of its own, it is a non-profit
organisation which is unbiased and
neutral.
Tariq Al Ghussein
There are plenty of issues we face
as an industry, so it makes good
sense to leave the competitive
thinking aside for a while and join our
forces and energy to address them
jointly. And for investors, designers,
developers and regulators,, this
offers a neutral point of reference
from which information and
expertise can be drawn.
How are your members feeling
about the progress of the
association so far?
Progress is the key - we’ve come
a long way since Eurovent Middle
East’s inception and have positively
impacted many areas of our
industry..
When stakeholders see tangible
benefits, value becomes a fact and
not just a proposition, and I’d like
to think that’s been central to our
success. As such, we’re working
hard to make Eurovent Middle
East as accessible and relevant as
possible. For example, the past two
years have seen us up our digital
game and make our webinars and
virtual events richer and more
interesting. We’re very aware we
need to compete for our member’s
attention – these are busy people.
And so, we’re looking to add value
and insight at every stage of our
stakeholder interaction.
We’re also encouraging inputs for
impact and letting our membership
base lead our conversation into new
areas for focus and development.
It’s fascinating to see all this unfold
into new discussions and new
content. For example, as we’ve seen
the worldwide narrative focussing
on health, we facilitate critical
discussions putting IAQ on the top of
our agenda.
Should more companies support
and join these joint activities?
Of course - a larger the membership
base means more expertise,
resources and relevance we can
bring to the table for the mutual
benefit of everyone: consumers,
manufacturers, and most
importantly, the environment.
Along with the opportunity to build
awareness and educate key target
audiences, membership also
provides a platform to network and
engage with industry leaders and the
wider market.
What would you see as the biggest
challenges in the Middle East when
looking at the HVACR market?
Regionally, we have so many
countries that share the same
climate but work with their own
regulatory parameters. That’s
difficult to implement and manage
and leads to duplication and
confusion. While getting everyone
on the same page in terms of panregional
regulations can be difficult,
the benefits would be significant,
and we’re working with GSO to
try to make this a reality. With the
development of new organisations
such as the Ministry of Industry and
Advanced Technology (MoIAT) within
the UAE, the possibility of making
this a reality at a federal level seems
closer than ever.
EME is active in many fields. Where
do you see the best areas where
the association has the strongest
chance to make a difference?
The big picture issues – such as
energy efficiency and indoor air
quality - are where organisations
like ours can make a significant
difference. These generational
challenges affect the world, not just
our industry, so they deserve our
best thinking and best efforts.
What are your expectations from
the 5-year anniversary congress?
My hope is, that through
collaboration and ideation we all
leave the congress a little more
knowledgeable than when we
arrived, and that we collectively and
individually put this new knowledge
to good use. After all that’s the key
driver for change.
www.eurovent.me
SEPTEMBER 2022 VOL. 07

NEWSLETTER
GUEST ARTICLE
What role does the
HVAC industry play in
decarbonisation
Anzala Asher, Product Engineer, Taqeef, writes on how HVAC is critical to curbing
global carbon emissions, what to keep in mind to ensure buildings are designed to
meet the region’s net-zero goals and why VRF systems can unlock significant
energy savings.
HVAC industry at the frontier of
curbing carbon footprint
Global policies and jurisdictions
across the globe are underscoring
the need for mitigating carbon
emissions as we transition
towards a net-zero future. Rising
temperatures and climate change
are the harsh realities of today and
tomorrow. Hence, we urgently need
a cohesive and swift action plan
as we work towards a sustainable
future. A holistic approach must
be implemented to reduce carbon
footprint in response to curbing
greenhouse gas (GHG) emissions.
Regulatory bodies and corporate
entities have set goals and
roadmaps to be carbon neutral
before 2050. Planning and timely
action are required to turn these
commitments and goals into reality
before it's too late.
Reducing carbon emissions
from buildings is crucial as they
are accountable for producing
approximately 40% of energyrelated
(GHG) emissions. As a
result, the HVAC industry is at
the frontier for ensuring carbon
footprint reduction.
MENA’s net-zero energy
Anzala Asher
In the Middle East and North Africa
(MENA) region, the industry is
gearing to transition towards netzero
as green building regulations
are being mandated. In the UAE,
strategic initiatives are set to reach
the target before 2050. As a result,
various stakeholders are pushing
for building decarbonisation across
the entire lifecycle. Developers,
consultants, contractors,
technology suppliers, and
investors have pledged to net-zero
commitments, and, tenants are
seeking to move into sustainable
homes. This notion puts a focal
emphasis on manufacturers to
develop innovative solutions and
on clients to opt for HVAC systems
that would yield less operational
and embodied carbon.
While HVAC systems contribute
significantly toward realising
decarbonization goals, the
challenge underlies that building
owners are unsure where to start
their net-zero journey. Additionally,
manufacturers are facing
expectations for taking measurable
action to reduce emissions. The
good news is that there’s plenty of
HVAC technology in the market for
driving innovation and scaling up
decarbonisation. However, it may
become difficult to assess which
technology is viable for different
types of projects.
Choosing the right systems
Below are some of the key actions
and measures to consider when
employing HVAC systems in
ensuring building decarbonisation:
Decarbonisation goals for newer
buildings have an advantage
because the overall carbon
footprint for the HVAC system can
be evaluated in the design phase.
Informed decisions about the HVAC
system's efficiency have to be
made before designing any type of
building. Therefore, building owners
and developers should be aware
of the HVAC technologies available
in the market that can allow them
to realise their sustainability goals
as it will impact the value of their
properties and the overall operating
costs.
Unlocking energy saving potential
of VRF systems
Variable Refrigerant Flow system
(VRF) technology has gained
traction over the years and has
been classified as a sustainable
technology for cooling buildings.
The operational costs tend to
be lower as well compared to
other conventional systems
because of inverter-driven
compressors. Particularly
at partial load conditions, an
inverter-driven compressor
adjusts the cooling capacity
based on the load requirements,
setpoint temperature and ambient
temperature. The compressor's
speed is constantly adjusted even
if there is a slight variation in the
load. In conjunction with this, the
ability of the VRF system to control
the amount of refrigerant provided
to the indoor units makes it a
feasible solution for applications
with varying load profiles or where
zoning is required. Choosing a VRF
system can also help qualify for
sustainable building certifications
primarily because of its high
efficiency.
Another route to achieving net zero
is to retrofit existing buildings.
Retrofitting in the built environment
is primarily done to improve the
efficiency and sustainability of
an existing structure by reducing
energy consumption which further
translates to a reduced carbon
footprint. In alignment with this, the
UAE is spearheading retrofitting to
improve the energy performance
of existing buildings. For instance,
the Dubai Supreme Council of
Energy has set the goal of reducing
energy demand by 30% before the
end of 2030. As a result, 30,000
buildings will be retrofitted across
the Emirate. After successfully
completing the project, DEWA
suggested that the work
undertaken will secure savings of
over USD22.33 billion and reduce
emissions of one million tonnes
of carbon dioxide. Usually, the
HVAC system also must undergo
stringent design choices as it
can have a long-term impact on
decarbonisation.
Challenges and opportunities in
retrofitting
When it comes to retrofitting the
HVAC system, there are challenges
related to initial investment and
ensuring the right solutions are
chosen. Building owners may
only look at the initial costs of the
investment despite the presence
of advanced HVAC solutions
in the market, which poses a
challenge to the building industry’s
decarbonisation progress.
It is evident that retrofits play a
substantial role in facilitating the net
zero agenda. This underpins the need
for high-efficiency HVAC systems as
it will play a vital role in ensuring that
the increased demand does not cause
more carbon emissions over the
entire lifecycle.
The versatility of VRF systems also
makes them an ideal choice for
building retrofits. In retrofit projects,
there are often limitations on
modifications that can be performed
to the existing architectural layout,
such as changes or the presence
of shafts to route the copper piping
network. Therefore, VRF systems
have an upfront benefit in retrofit
projects as they have smaller piping
dimensions that can easily be routed
in existing shafts.
Another challenge that building
owners often encounter with retrofit
projects is the limited availability
of space above ceilings which may
require ductless or slim ducted units
to accomplish building conditioning.
A VRF system is ideal for such
projects because all manufacturers
provide an array of indoor unit options
that can easily be integrated into
narrow ceiling spaces because of their
low height and width dimensions.
Digital optimisations – a critical step
in the road to decarbonisation
Additionally, the road to net zero
within the built environment also
requires the digital transformation
of buildings that includes energyefficient
HVAC controls. Another
added benefit of deploying a VRF
system is the flexibility to integrate
with smart control solutions
which can allow for performance
optimisation of the buildings. For
instance, a building management
system consolidated with VRF and
other mechanical systems will
enable facilities personnel
a central interface for monitoring
and controlling from a central point.
The interface constantly collects
real-time data of the connected
VRF system and allows the staff to
take preventative action, respond
quickly to errors, and optimise
energy management. It also
provides building owners insight
into equipment that may consume
excessive energy or systems
requiring preventative maintenance.
In essence, these insights can help
optimise operating operations
and aid in identifying energysaving
opportunities. The data
can be collected and analysed for
energy trends of the installed VRF
systems, such as changing usage
requirements can be programmed,
which can enhance the system's
efficacy. Therefore, a properly
installed BMS system can help
building owners achieve carbon
neutrality while enhancing tenants'
thermal comfort and further
protecting bottom line performance.
While the path to net zero may
be challenging, it is also a
journey blossoming with endless
possibilities. It is an opportunity for
everyone to take unified action to
deliver a greener world for future
generations. There is no time to
delay, action and change has to
happen now if we wish to prevent
the effects of global warming. There
is a need for a gradual momentum
towards sustainable HVAC solutions
that are needed to decarbonize
the built environment. Investing in
this technology is the need of the
hour if we wish to reverse climate
emergency. Hence, smart solutions
like VRF can drive this agenda by
delivering high efficiency, optimal
thermal comfort and the flexibility
for integrating advanced control
solutions. It is within everyone’s
power and responsibility to
collaborate together to shape
a sustainable future for all.
www.eurovent.me SEPTEMBER 2022 VOL. 07

NEWSLETTER
GUEST ARTICLE
Why the slow move back
to normal should be an
opportunity for the HVAC
sector to step up
Dr Iyad Al Attar, Independent Air Filtration Expert and Associated Consultant for
Eurovent Middle East, calls on the HVAC sector to challenge and change conventional
philosophies, outlining what the industry should keep in mind to truly enhance IAQ and
avoid the outdated thinking that prolonged Covid-19...
It is good to get back to “normal”
slowly, but not back to the
practices that have led to and
delayed our exit from the Covid-19
pandemic. The importance of air
filter performance in enhancing
air quality has been belittled for
decades and perceived as an
acquired luxury. The pandemic
finally brought the air quality
narrative from the backburner
to the news headlines. The scale
and scope of losses in human
lives and economic setbacks have
forced us to scrutinize air quality
and filter performance. Yet,
despite all our technical knowhow
and collective experiences,
we aimlessly wander in our HVAC
systems, dedusting clogged
filters, washing contaminated
coils, and cleaning ducts,
believing that we have satisfied
our air quality obligations.
It is time to get it right; we ought
to focus on what is effective, not
what is in fashion. We must admit
that our conventional philosophies
trapped us in the pandemic and
delayed our exit from it. If our
literal adherence to filtration and
HVAC standards has contributed
to the deterioration of indoor air
quality, we certainly need to check
the metrics of these standards.
The pandemic is a prime time
to revolt against outdated and
conventional practices that have
failed to protect our respiratory
systems and instead participated in
spreading the coronavirus. COVID-19
has now showcased compelling
economic reasons for resolving air
quality issues. The objective here is
not just to avail the best Indoor Air
Quality (IAQ) possible but to address
all relevant matters influencing the
built environment. HVAC systems
must step up, and we should think
beyond thermal comfort. That would
include rewiring our buildings and
cities to place IAQ at the forefront
of national priorities by employing
continuous aerosol monitoring
and the corresponding filtration
solutions.
Conventional maintenance
measures thwart any endeavour to
attain better air quality.
Raising the bar of air quality is an
engineering approach. Currently,
predetermined ways of doing things
and conventional practices continue
to risk IAQ; the game is the same.
The addiction to using washable and
reusable filters has compromised
IAQ and filtration upgrades. The
villain in the story is the great
emphasis on saving costs rather
Dr Iyad Al Attar
than lives by dedusting a clogged
filter with compressed air, washing
coils, and cleaning ducts.
These maintenance measures thwart
any endeavour to attain better air
quality. Therefore, it is time to bend
the arc of conventional practices
toward professional, thorough, and
preventative maintenance programs
to take air quality to the next
level. The mindset of maintenance
shortcuts will never position air
quality as a pressing issue in the
built environment. Underutilizing air
filtration solutions and settling for
maintenance tricks rather than
technologies to the inheriting
poor IAQ contributed further to
the spread of microorganisms. It
is time to realize the essence of
air filter performance and regard
it as an integral part of the built
environment and not simply an
accessory of the HVAC system.
To achieve leaps and bounds as
far as IAQ is concerned, we must
consider new ideas and adopt
innovative approaches. We need
to consider appropriate filter
selection that can accommodate
all types of pollutants once
their physical and chemical
characterization has been
completed. To implement proper
corrective measures, we ought
to highlight the air quality issues
and determine whether they are
ventilation or filtration issues
or a bit of both. For example,
to lower the concentration of
CO 2
, ventilation techniques are
necessary, but both filtration and
ventilation solutions can reduce
Particulate Matter (PM) and
gaseous pollutants concentrations.
Recently, there has been a great
deal of hype on moisture control,
and several studies and scholars
correlated humidity control and
virus survivability in an indoor
environment. Ironically, the sole
reliance on a single stage of an
inch thick washable filter in Fan
Coil Units (FCU) and installing
these filters before they are
completely dry - not to mention
their poor filter efficiency - may
counterproductively affect the
IAQ. Air handling units use a
second filtration stage ( usually
pocket type) in addition to the
primary filters to protect human
occupants and the installed HVAC
system. However, the agony
is that these secondary filters
occupy tremendous space in
the air handling units compared
to their modest performance
(efficiency and pressure drop).
Unfortunately, although these
filters are disposable, maintenance
teams often reinstall them after
attempting to regenerate them by
water-washing or compressed air.
Figure A & B: Scanning electron microscopic images of filter media used in air filters.
It is impossible to embark on air
quality enhancements if these
practices exist. There is a lot to
tweak in IAQ, not just to hike the
filter efficiency and install High-
Efficiency Particulate Arrestance
(HEPA) filters, but to consider
the entire HVAC systems and
built-in environments holistically.
Satisfaction is gained through
increased productivity and improving
dull buildings through the Internet
of Things. Therefore, enticing
HVAC engineers to design systems
responding to indoor air quality
variations will prove invaluable
in confronting a wide array of
pollutants, not just Particulate
Matter (PM).
Air filter media, design, and
performance have advanced
substantially. Addressing only the
associated rise in pressure drop
when selecting air filters with higher
efficiency is yesterday’s argument.
The optimized performance of
modern aerodynamic filter design
can spark a new beginning to attain
cleaner air at a much lower pressure
drop.
Figure C: Typical installation of
secondary stage filter “pocket type”
in an air handling unit
Reimaging Air Quality
Existing and new buildings are
under immense pressure to provide
healthier indoor environments.
However, any cost of filtration
upgrades is infinitesimal given the
cost of the lockdown. Although
COVID-19 has brought enormous
suffering, it has highlighted the
primary deficiencies in terms of
the tools and conditions of our
indoor environment. Globally,
the pandemic pushed air
quality to the center and forced
everyone to reimagine air quality
given the incredible growth in
industrialization; however, at the
same time, it also shed light on
the lack of adequate regulations.
Today, technology has provided us
with the tools and the resources to
attain the best air quality, and the
pandemic has given us the business
case to act swiftly.
We must unweave every strand of
conventional practice that led to
the spread of the virus. We ought to
admit that maintenance programs
in place are, at best, modest, if they
exist at all. It is time to certify HVAC
systems, air filter performance, and
maintenance programs and teams
to take air quality to the next level.
It is now time for the global
government to legislate rules
and regulations that match the
importance of outdoor and indoor
air quality and allocate budgets
and plans to improve IAQ. The bill
that can come due is horrendous if
we do not make air quality a global
priority.
www.eurovent.me SEPTEMBER 2022 VOL. 07

NEWSLETTER
FEATURE STORY
The roadmap to
securing better IAQ
In view of the projected growth of ventilation solutions as a result of COVID-19,
Eurovent Middle East looks at the importance of implementing a regulatory
framework to ensure solutions and practices in the region lead to better indoor air
quality (IAQ) that will protect building inhabitants in the years to come.
As the growing importance of indoor
air quality (IAQ) following COVID-19
drive greater demand for ventilation
solutions, there is also an urgent
need to develop a corresponding
regulatory framework that will
ensure design, installation and
maintenance practices truly reflect
the best interest of the building
inhabitants. Such a move is long
overdue, says William P. Bahnfleth,
Professor of Architectural
Engineering, The Pennsylvania
State University. “The pandemic
has created broad awareness of
the critical importance of indoor
air quality, which some – including
myself – have been preaching
about for decades,” he says. “The
consequences of poor ventilation
and filtration are now impacting the
everyday lives of virtually everyone
in the world, creating immense
human and economic damage. One
must hope that this experience will
lead to significant changes in the
way we view IAQ, with corresponding
changes to minimum standards and
best practices.”
Bahnfleth says that he thinks
infection control, which currently
is a priority only in hospitals and
related facilities, will be addressed
in air quality standards for all
buildings, which could lead to
increasing ventilation and filtration
requirements. “Because some air
quality improvements have the
potential to increase energy use, I
believe that there will be changes to
operations targeting better IAQ with
reduced energy use, for example,
advanced temporal and spatial
demand control that will both raise
IAQ and reduce energy use,” he says.
Igor Sikonczyk, Senior Technical
and Regulatory Affairs Manager,
Eurovent Association, believes that
concerns related to COVID-19 is
also a driving force behind the move
to implementing requirements
concerning air quality at the
European Union (EU) level. “The
European standardisation committee
initiated and launched a discussion
on whether there is a need to do
something in all standards related
to ventilation,” he says. “This should
also address COVID for future
design guidelines, because we have
to be prepared down the road. The
new standards should be able to
face such problems in the future.
Hopefully, the pandemic can spark
a discussion on some concrete
requirements for IAQ in Europe and, I
believe, across the world.”
Further highlighting the need for
regulation in this area, Bahnfleth also
points out that a recent study found
that over 40% of the roughly 100,000
schools in the US had heating,
ventilation, and air-conditioning
systems in need of significant
repairs. “In the US, we must have
our vehicles inspected every year
and cannot drive them legally until
they meet state standards, yet
there are no such requirements
for the buildings in which we spend
nearly 90% of our time and which
are responsible for about 40%
of primary energy use,” he says.
“Energy certification of buildings
is a developing trend. I think that
performance requirements should
also address IAQ, which affects the
most costly part of a building – those
who inhabit it.”
Tariq Al Ghussein, CEO, Taqeef,
shares a similar opinion: “Like any
framework, regulatory guidelines
need to evolve with societal trends,
and COVID-19 will have shone a
spotlight on this area for sure,” he
says. “In my view it’s likely, that after
a period of reliable study, current
guidelines might well be adapted.
As a business, we follow REHVA and
the current ISO 16890 and EN 1822
protocols in all we do, while looking to
other industry leaders for examples of
best practice that we can emulate. As
an association it’s about sharing our
learnings and supporting each other
to constantly strive for better.”
This is especially true for the Middle
East, says Bahnfleth. He points out
that in the region, like in other parts
of the world, an overzealous focus
on energy and environment often
leads to the acceptance of marginal
standards for indoor environmental
quality. “If the countries of the Middle
East would simply adopt indoor air
quality standards of stringency equal
to those adopted in North America
and Europe, that would be a good
start,” he says. “Kuwait has been
especially proactive in pursuing the
development of appropriate standards
for both energy and indoor air
quality.”
Weighing in, Dr Iyad Al-Attar,
Independent Air Filtration Consultant,
says that in the past, implementation
of existing standards was very lean
and filter acquisition has been
always price-driven. “We regard
air filters as expensive items and
we conduct meetings to fiercely
obtain substantial discounts for filter
acquisition,” he says. “Our minds
cease to grant air filter the “value” it
deserves. We miscalculate the cost by
equating price to value, and overlook
intellectual properties, technological
expertise, research and development
investments. By doing so, we reinforce
the view that filter testing; quality and
performance are peripheral to the
selection criteria. We, thus, bluntly
declare that such critical factors are
on the wrong side of our balance
sheet.” He stresses that there is
a huge gap between rhetoric and
actions when it comes to appropriate
filter selection, installation, and
performance. “The new ISO16890
test method correctly places
emphasis on filtration performance
related to particulate matter sizes,
hence, providing a more practical
test criteria than the outdated
EN779:2012,” he says. “However,
we need to realise that physical and
chemical characterisation of outdoor
air pollutants it essential to making
appropriate air filter selection.”
Sikonczyk says setting minimum
standards and promoting regulation
would also help move the industry
away from cost-centric thinking. “It’s
clear that developers want to cut
cost at the lowest possible level,”
he says. “The best incentive is a
regulation or obligatory minimum
requirements. Incentives to drive
this renovation wave should come
from the government but the other
driving force can come directly from
market. The awareness of people on
the impact of indoor air quality on
pandemic transmission and the effort
to contain pandemic development is
important. People that are in buildings
should know the importance of good
IAQ and they should expect more from
the developer and building owners.
They should ask, ‘What you are
offering here? Is the environment you
are selling safe or not?’. This would
force owners of buildings towards
renovation. This would be our role as
the industry or Association -- to make
William P. Bahnfleth
Igor Sikonczyk
Tariq Al Ghussein
Dr Iyad Al Attar
people aware and promote some good
practices and good technologies.”
For Dr Al-Attar, continuous aerosol
monitoring can be a game changer
as far as the number and type
of air filtration technology being
installed. “We ought to employ our
characterisation tools to reveal what
our lungs inhale and our eyes fail to
trace,” he says. “Once revealed what
was forever concealed, I am certain
that there is no price we will not pay to
attain the air quality needed for each
specific application.”
Dr Al Attar adds that another
challenge related to standards is their
suitability to Middle Eastern climate
conditions as far as sandstorms,
excessive moisture and heat are
concerned. “In the Sahara Desert,
such as the Arabian Peninsula,
sandstorms increase the particle
concentration in the air and affect
the dust loading of the air filters
in the air handling units,” he says.
Considering filtration is location
and application sensitive, special
considerations should be granted
to the climate conditions, since they
pose additional challenges to the
filtration performance, he adds.
“In fact, research has proven that
such conditions can contribute to
the deviation of filter performance
of that predicted by global testing
laboratories,” he says. “Various
atmospheric pollutants can easily
invade our indoor space using HVAC
systems as a vehicle if left untreated.
Since an adult typically breathes an
average of 10 litres of air per minute,
even a low concentration of airborne
contaminants represents a large
quantity of inhaled particles and can
pose health hazards.”
Bahnfleth says that while most think
of resilience as protecting the building
from hazards like earthquakes and
hurricanes, an important essential
change he hopes to see is for the
concept of resilience to include
protection of building occupants, and
for this to be widely accepted and
incorporated in design standards and
operating procedures.
www.eurovent.me SEPTEMBER 2022 VOL. 07

NEWSLETTER
FEATURE STORY
ISO 16890 - The Global
Air Filtration Standard
Industry experts discuss the advantages presented by ISO 16890 as a reference standard
for air filtration in general ventilation, the level of adoption in the Middle East and the
urgent need to promote better practices and more stringent regulations to secure clean
air for the future.
The COVID-19 outbreak
undoubtedly underlined the
importance of Indoor Air Quality
(IAQ) and ventilation. Dr Iyad Al
Attar, Independent Air Filtration
Consultant explains, “The
importance of clean air to the
well-being of people and for the
protection of industrial equipment
has highlighted the critical
role of air filter performance.”
Unfortunately, the pandemic also
gave way to outdated, inadequate
or simply incorrect information
related to filtration circulating in
the market.
Prominent organisations such as
the World Health Organisation
(WHO) were not immune to this,
having published a ventilation
roadmap in March 2021, which
referenced outdated filtration
standards. Eurovent, Eurovent
Dr Iyad Al Attar
Middle East and several other
industry experts advocated
for the inclusion of the correct
references in the roadmap and
the WHO has since published
a corrigendum, however
the importance of creating
awareness on the proper
standards remains crucial.
The inhomogeneous nature of filter media remains a challenge to performance
variations (Image by Dr. Iyad Al-Attar)
“Accurate filter performance
prediction plays a significant
role in estimating the lifetime of
filters and reducing energy and
maintenance operating costs,” says
Dr Al-Attar. “Therefore, air filtration
standards are sought to ensure the
appropriate filter selection has been
made for a specific application.”
Why care about ISO 16890?
ISO 16890 as a global air filtration
standard for general ventilation
replaces older standards such
as EN 779 and ASHRAE 52.2.
This standard is highly regarded
by industry stakeholders due
to improvements on the test
methodology for filter performance,
allowing a more realistic indication
compared to previous standards.
The test method defined in ISO
16890 shifts the focus on filtration
performance to classes of
particulate matter (PM) size, such
as PM1, PM2.5 and PM10, which
are used as evaluation parameters
by the WHO and other authorities.
Additionally, ISO 16890 expands on
the particle spectrum from 0.3 to 10
microns compared to EN 779 test
methods, which qualified fine filter
performance from 0.4 microns and
above. Ultimately, these practical
improvements will help ensure that
filter manufacturers, purchasing
managers, engineers, and
environmentalists can have a less
complicated discussion, leading to
a better air filter selection based
on site conditions and project
requirements.
It’s important to not lose focus
of what the ISO standard aims
to achieve compared to its
predecessors, as Dr Al Attar
elaborates, “The existing standard
should be considered as initial
guidance in any selection process.
The change lies in the detailed
specification/selection of the air
filters, such as filter media (highly
inhomogeneous) and filter design,
that would influence not only
the efficiency against a specific
particle size but the sustainability
of such performance.” Building on
this viewpoint, Nodirjon Rasulov,
Business Development Manager,
Camfil Middle East FZCO adds that
the efficiency and pressure drop
measurement test in ISO 16890
is wider than previous standards
and points out that the isopropanol
method of filter discharging
has been selected over the wet
process. “It discharges the filter
thoroughly up to 100% without
affecting the fibre structure of the
filter.” says Rasulov. Sara Mokhtari,
Export Director, AFPRO Filters,
also highlights how “Fractional
efficiencies of the filter prior to
and after IPA discharge of any
electrostatic properties can be
seen.”
Slow but steady transition
While a natural transition period
was to be expected, the awareness
on ISO 16890 remains sorely lacking
in the market which is problematic
considering that, globally, air quality
is deteriorating day by day, and the
Middle East is no exception. Rasulov
shares, “Although ISO 16890 has
been effective from 2019 onwards,
it has not overtaken old, existing
standards,” he says. “In fact, now it
is creating more confusion among
engineers who have to deal with all
air filtration standards.” Mirroring
these sentiments, Mokhtari, says
that compared to Western Europe,
there is a noticeable a lag in the
adoption of ISO 16890 in the Middle
East, with many still referring the
much older EN 779 standard and
ASHRAE.
Dr Marc Schmidt, Vice President
Technologies Europe, AAF, adds
that the GCC region has been
slow to adapt however, there has
been strong awareness among Air
Handling Unit (AHU) manufacturers
and, to some extent, end users
in the UAE. “But there still is no
regulation from authorities,” he
adds. “That might be the reason
why consultants seem reluctant.”
Rasulov further confirms the lack
of adoption by regulatory entities in
the region. This however is mostly
owed to the fact that ventilation
equipment is still not governed
by any technical regulation in the
region, as Nerissa Deoraj, Senior
Public Affairs Manager, Systemair
confirms, pointing out that only the
UAE through the Abu Dhabi Quality
and Conformity Council (AD QCC)
has referenced the standard in
the Air Handling Unit Conformity
Assessment Scheme and overall
implementation is dramatically
slow.
Such a slow adoption pace comes
as no surprise, due to the mindset
in the region and given that the two
main criteria for filter selection is
price and reuse. Other performance
characteristics are often overlooked
or not given due consideration.
Dr Schmidt says this can be
attributed to lack of education and
training and that the generally
conservative nature of the business
segment. Underlining the market’s
unwillingness to adapt, Rasulov
shares that most of the countries in
the Middle East are still focusing on
PM2.5 as the benchmarked source
of particulate to be treated through
air filtration. PM1, which ISO 16890
places in greater focus, remains
relatively untouched.
“We must admit that changing the
way we perceive filter efficiency and
the approach by which filters are
currently selected is challenging
to the general public,” says Dr
Al-Attar. “Regionally and globally,
filtration selection discussion starts
with ‘What would a F7 or F9 filter
class correspond to in ISO 16890?’.
I believe it is better to understand
the selection criteria before
making any sweeping conclusion
and comparing one filter between
existing standards and ISO 16890. “
Nodirjon Rasulov
Dr Marc Schmidt
Nerissa Deoraj
Sara Mokhtari
www.eurovent.me SEPTEMBER 2022 VOL. 07

NEWSLETTER
FEATURE STORY
GUEST ARTICLE
Let´s get the facts straight
regarding performance
certification for AHUs
Sand storms remain a challenge to filtration selections and standards (Photography by Dr. Iyad Al-Attar)
Khalil El Ghazzi, Managing Director, Systemair Saudi Arabia, discusses misconceptions
related to performance certification circulating in the market, factors stakeholders
should keep in mind when assessing existing schemes, and what lies behind the
Eurovent mark…
The patchwork of standards
used in the region can be
attributed to regional projects
being designed abroad. “If it
is designed in USA, in terms
of HVAC and air filtration, the
selection preferences would
focus on ASHRAE standards,”
says Rasulov. “If it is designed
in Europe, the focus will shift
to EN standards. If a project is
specified in the region, I consider
it a 'hybrid' standard, where EN,
ASHRAE, and ISO can be used to
specify.”
In view of the important role
the standard plays in promoting
better indoor air quality, it
is crucial for the industry to
work together and advocate
for the wider adoption of ISO
16890 on a legislative level and
make provision for inclusion in
existing policies and standards.
“By upgrading the policy, it will
provide direction instead of
allowing markets to follow at
random.” Rasulov adds that the
standard should be mandatory to
ensure organisations can enforce
proper inspection in line with ISO
16890.
Another approach would be to
strengthen communications
with environmental ministries,
and other sectors. “It would
also be helpful to shift our focus
to foundational information,
integrating these updates in the
standards as part of the university
syllabus,” he says. “By doing that, we
could nurture young generation to
learn and easily adapt for upcoming
changes in the industry.” Mokhtari
is of the firm opinion manufacturers
must also play an active role in this
regard adding, “Education is the key
to success. Market leaders should
keep investing in educating their
partners to create more awareness
and promote adoption of ISO 16890.”
Having a clear understanding of the
way the standard works is key to
ensuring the best filter selection.
The standard differentiates between
three main Outdoor Air Categories
(ODA), according to contamination
levels. Once determining the Supply
Air (SUP) category in accordance
with the application requirements
(general or industrial ventilation),
engineers can easily select the
recommended filter class based on
the calculation of the ODA and SUP
air levels. This facilitates easier filter
selection which ultimately optimises
the filtration system and impacts on
the energy efficiency and indoor air
quality.
There are several resources available
to the industry to provide technical
guidance related to air filtration and
filter selection in accordance with
ISO 16890. Eurovent Middle East also
published two recommendations
on air filtration and ventilation and
recommendations for healthcare
facilities.
Refer to these recommendations
and guidebooks for reliable
technical guidance.
Related documents
and links
All related documents and files can
be found in the respective sections
in the right sidebar.
• Eurovent Air Filter Guidebook —
First Edition — 2017
• Eurovent Recommendation 4/23
— Selection of EN ISO 16890
rated air filters classes — Third
Edition — 2020
• EME-GEN — 20004.00 —
COVID-19 Recommendations for
Air Filtration and Ventilation
• EME-GEN — 20006.00 —
COVID-19 Recommendations for
Healthcare Facilities
• REHVA Journal 01/2021 — Filter
Class Conversion between EN
779 and ISO 16890-1
• WHO Roadmap to improve
and ensure good ventilation
in the context of COVID-19
(Corrigendum)
• EME-REC – 21001.00 –
Recommendations on WHO
‘Roadmap to improve and
ensure good ventilation in the
context of COVID-19’
Performance certification schemes are valuable tools as
they help empower customers with the correct data by
validating the information declared by manufacturers.
This is useful for customers choosing Air Handling
Units (AHUs) with specific requirements in mind.
However, there are misconceptions and flaws related to
certification circulating throughout the Middle East that
need to be addressed.
When it comes to performance certification, it is essential
to remember the following:
• Being certified does not guarantee a high-quality AHU.
It simply proves that the manufacturer’s catalogue
data and, if applicable, selection software output data
is correct. It also does not necessarily mean that a unit
complies with minimum performance regulations.
• A certification body typically does not tell companies
how to manufacture products unless explicitly
specified. Certification generally aims to validate
claims against the allowed deviations set within this
certification company.
• Performance certification schemes by different
certifying companies are not at par with each other.
Therefore, it is essential to raise awareness of the
true implications behind each certification programme
and differentiate between the processes behind
certifications circulating in the market.
We recommend using the following (non-exhaustive)
checklist of questions as a reference to assess a
certification scheme:
Does the certification cover the performance of the AHU
or just the components individually?
This is key to ensuring the performance meets the
declared parameters and meets requirements related
Khalil El Ghazzi
to air quality, cooling or heating capacity, energy
recovery, power consumption, air/water side pressure
drop, and the like.
Separate certifications of components cannot be
qualified as consolidated certification of the AHU.
Does the certification programme certify units
keeping hot or humid climates in mind?
Certification that takes into consideration the
performance of units in warm climates is a valuable
tool that provides an easier and more inclusive
reference for customers in the warmer regions to
choose the most suitable equipment in a simple
and more straightforward manner.
www.eurovent.me SEPTEMBER 2022 VOL. 07

NEWSLETTER
GUEST ARTICLE
Are tests conducted by third-part certification bodies?
This marks the difference whether the performance
tests are conducted in independent laboratories or the
manufacturers’ laboratory.
Is the certification body accredited?
Same as a laboratory, the certification body should
also be accredited to fulfil the ISO/CEI 17065 standard
requirements.
What are the test parameters for mechanical
performance?
The certification body’s website should include information
on whether test parameters consider, for example, EN
1886 mechanical performance classes such as deflection
and leakage classes.
Is the certified AHU listed in the online directory of the
respective certification body?
Any quality performance scheme should have an online
certification directory. If the AHU range and its test
results are not mentioned in this online directory, it is not
certified. Always verify this first.
Are performance parameters periodically validated by
way of factory audits?
This ensures that the independent certification
organisation can check if products continue to be
manufactured under the same parameters.
Are regular software selection audits conducted as
part of the certification process?
This is important to ensure that manufacturers
do not change data or software outputs. If such a
process is in place, any change in software and the
addition of new equipment must be approved by the
certifying body. The software check also takes into
consideration the allowed deviations in the certified
data coming from the software.
Does the certification programme offer an energy
labelling scheme?
An energy labelling scheme serves as a useful
means to identify better performing units instead of
solely verifying published performance values. This
means, for example, that a unit can be ranked on A+
(best) to E (worst) scale.
Eurovent: What’s behind the mark?
Eurovent Certified Performance “Air Handling Units”
Not all certification schemes are made equal.
It is critical to assess the processes behind the
certification to ensure the integrity of the mark.
Below are the features of the Eurovent certification
for air handling units that serve as a reference guide
to evaluate whether similar certifications in the
market conduct equal due diligence.
Mechanical performance certified with addition of filter bypass leakage and sound insertion loss.
Rating and performance certified with strict deviations.
Performance test of real unit conducted in a laboratory.
An energy labelling scheme that helps identify better performing units on a scale from A+ (best) to E (worst).
Energy Efficiency Classes for Summer Application (EECS) label for air handling units to warm weather
conditions and acknowledge humidity recovery
Eurovent Certified Performance option for “Hygienic Air Handling Units”
Annual factory visits.
Annual selection software audit to guarantee validity of output data.
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for temperatures above +50˚C (Ban
12). E.g.: Remote condensing unit
cold rooms, milk cooling tanks, etc.
Multipack centralised refr. systems
for commercial use with capacity
≥ 40kW
Conditions/
GWP limit
Table 1: F-Gas schedule & GWP limitations by equipment type
installers and manufacturers can use
with them. Rolling out in phases until
2025, these restrictions apply to both
domestic refrigerators and freezers,
through to commercial refrigeration and
air conditioning solutions.
• When temperatures are below -50 ̊C
3. • When A phase military down equipment of HFC refrigerants is involved in
the market
2. A ban on the use of F-Gases in many
As part of its push to reduce the impacts
types of equipment
of global warming, F-Gas calls for a phase
Different refrigeration equipment
down
will have
of CO
GWP 2 equivalent
limits placed
tons of
on
all new
refrigerants
the refrigerants
placed
installers
on the market.
and
manufacturers can use with them.
During Rolling 2017, out in the phases regulation until called 2025, for these a 7%
reduction restrictions in equivalent apply to both tons domestic of CO 2 . By end
of refrigerators 2018, it requires and a freezers, 37% reduction. through
to commercial refrigeration and air
conditioning solutions.
From: 1 st of
January
≥ 2500 2020
≥ 150 2022
≥ 2500 2020
≥ 150 and ≥ 1500
for prim.circ. of
cascades
2022
Main consequences
Ban R404A/507. Alternatives e.g. R448A,
R449A, R134a, R450A, R513A, HFO and
HC (R290)
Ban R448A, R449A, R134a, R450A, R513A,
R134a. Alternatives: HFO and HC (R290)
Ban R404A/507. Alternatives e.g. R448A,
R449A, R134a, R450A, R513A, HFO, HC
(R290), CO2
Bans traditional HFC, except R134a in
cascades. Alternatives: HFO, HC, CO2
refrigerants.danfoss.com
www.eurovent.me SEPTEMBER 2022 VOL. 07

Understanding
flammability classifications
Category
Category
Example
Characteristics
Characteristics
Category
Characteristics
Example
Example
ASHRAE Standard 34: 2010
the location of your e
Safety group
NEWSLETTER
the safety of househo
Higher flammability A3 B3 refrigeration applianc
All refrigerants are given a classification
code consisting of a letter and a number.
Lower flammability A2 / A2L* B2 / B2L* or remote compresso
unit such as bottle co
For example, R290 is a class A3 refrigerant. No flame propagation A1 B1
machines, etc, then th
FEATURED TECHNICAL PAPER
Lower toxicity Higher toxicity
series standard is app
The letter represents the toxicity of
* A2L and B2L are lower flammability refrigerants with a
the refrigerant, with “A” being a low
maximum burning velocity of ≤ 10 cm/s (3.9 in./s).
3. A phase down of HFC refrigerants in A2L/A3 classes, flammable options for strong replacement for R404A. With a
Understanding flammability
ASHRAE ASHRAE Standard Standard 34: 2010 34: 2010 potential Also, potential refrigerant for the refrigerant options safety based of options household
Focusing on based or on on the EN 37
the market
longer term choice
GWP of just 3, R290 is compliant with
classifications
Understanding toxicity substance and “B” being
ASHRAE
a
Standard 34: 2010
the
potential
location
refrigerant
of your equipment.
options based
Also,
on
for
As part of its push to reduce the impacts For those choosing a long-term solution, both current and upcoming F-Gas
All flammability
flammability
refrigerants are classifications
classifications
Safety group
given a classification
the
the
safety
location
commercial the location of
of
of
household
your equipment.
refrigeration your equipment. part
or commercial
Also,
appliances of Also, the for standard w
higher toxicity substance.
for
Safety group
Safety group
of global warming, F-Gas calls for a more sustainable alternatives to R404A/ rules—across all equipment types.
code consisting of a letter and a
Higher flammability A3 B3 refrigeration
the safety with the safety
of household integrated of household
appliances
or or
with
commercial remote or
is
commercial compressor the charge limitatio
Higher flammability A3 B3
integrated
are given What phase down are of the CO equivalent alternative tons of all R134a However, are there needed. is an inverse correlation R600a equipment (iso-butane) types. R600a is already (iso-butane) widely is
number. All
All
refrigerants
refrigerants For example, are
are
of
given
given letter
a R290 and
classification
a classification Higher flammability A3 B3
is number. a class A3 Lower flammability A2 / A2L* B2 / B2L* or
refrigeration or refrigeration condensing appliances
remote compressor
appliances
or
with unit
condensing
integrated such with bottle integrated
new refrigerants placed on the market. between a refrigerant’s GWP and
used already as widely R134a replacement used as R134a in replacement
options?
small
refrigerant.
For
code code consisting consisting The number
R290
of of
is
a letter a letter represents class
and and
A3
a
refrigerant.
number. a number. the Lower flammability Refrigerant A2 / A2L* B2 / charge
B2L*
Lower flammability A2 / A2L* B2 / B2L* unit
or remote
or
such as
compressor
remote compressor
bottle coolers,
or condensing
or as condensing these can be quite
coolers, vending machines, etc, then the
vending
No flame propagation A1 B1
During 2017, the regulation called for However, its flammability. there Many is inverse ultra-low
hermetic in small hermetic systems. systems.
For For example, R290 R290 is a is class a class A3 A3 refrigerant. refrigerant. No flame
No
propagation
flame propagation
A1
A1
B1
B1
machines,
unit such IEC unit as 60335-2
etc,
bottle such as
then
coolers, bottle series
the IEC
vending coolers, standard the vending location is applied. of equipm
flammability of the refrigerant, limitations in EN 378:2016 60335-2
Lower toxicity Higher toxicity
series
machines, machines,
standard
etc, then etc,
is applied.
the then IEC 60335-2 the IEC refrigerant 60335-2 used, and i
a What 7% reduction are the in equivalent alternative tons of correlation GWP However, refrigerants there between is also an a inverse have refrigerant’s a higher correlation equipment types. R600a (iso-butane) is
The with letter “1” represents being the non-flammable, the toxicity toxicity of “2”
Lower toxicity Lower toxicity Higher toxicity Higher toxicity
series standard Focusing series standard is applied. on the is EN applied. 378, then Between the changes to servicing and
CO2. By end of 2018, it requires a 37% GWP flammability between and its a refrigerant’s flammability. classification GWP than Many and R404A— ultra-
A2L already refrigerants widely used – so-called as R134a mildly
replacement
the The letter represents
with “A”
the the
being
toxicity toxicity low
of of * A2L and B2L are lower flammability refrigerants with a
on these factors, you m
of the refrigerant, with “A” being maximum * A2L and B2L burning are lower velocity flammability of ≤ 10 cm/s refrigerants (3.9 in./s). with a
the options? stringent requirements for CO
reduction.
2
low potentially its flammability. GWP refrigerants requiring Many a different also ultra-low have approach a
flammable in small hermetic refrigerants systems. –– like R454A, R454C
toxicity the
being refrigerant,
mildly
substance
with with
and
“A”
flammable,
“A”
“B”
being being
being
a low a low
and “3” * A2L and B2L are When lower flammability considering refrigerants with an a
Focusing alternative main
on the
part
EN
of
378,
the
then
standard
the main
we need to
maximum
a low toxicity substance and “B”
maximum burning burning velocity velocity of ≤ 10 cm/s of ≤ (3.9 10 cm/s in./s). (3.9 in./s).
reduction required by F-Gas, it’s clear
part
Focusing
of the
consider Focusing standard
the EN on is 378,
we
the need
then charge EN 378,
to
the
consider
main limitations then different the main it refrigerants puts o
higher to GWP system refrigerants flammability design and also classification
installation. have a higher R454C or R1234yf or R1234yf or R455A or can R455A be interesting can be
higher toxicity being
toxicity substance highly
substance.
and flammable. and “B” “B” being being a a “2L” is an refrigerant, F-Gas is not the only
being a higher toxicity substance.
that
What Between many
are the common
the changes alternative
refrigerants to servicing options?
today
is
part
the
of
charge
the
and
in part place, standard of limitations the standard we need
it puts
to we in
consider
place, need system to consider designs to red
higher
than flammability R404A— classification potentially requiring than R404A— a interesting low A2L GWP refrigerants alternatives low GWP – so-called alternatives to R404A mildly and to R134a.
additional toxicity substance. classification referring Refrigerant regulation charge limitations you need in EN
cannot
Between the stringent be
the
used
changes requirements in cold
to
rooms
servicing for and CO 2
other
and different potentially approach requiring to a system different design approach and R404A flammable and R134a.
The represents the
as
is to the keep
these
charge as is can these in
be
limitations charge mind.
quite can stringent limitations be The it puts quite in
based stringent place, it puts on
based place,
For those that will consider a flammable
self-contained
refrigerants – like R454A, R454C
The
the reduction stringent required requirements commercial by F-Gas, refrigeration for it’s clear CO2 installation.
flammability to number refrigerants represents that
of the refrigerant,
the the are mildly
378:2016 charge
the
as these
location
can
of
be
equipment,
quite stringent
access
based
to it,
on
The number represents the limitations Refrigerant European
in EN charge Committee for Standard’s on as these location can be EN quite of equipment, stringent based access on to
refrigerant
applications
to system design to comply and with installation. F-Gas, propane, That or R1234yf said, if you or R455A have specific can be interesting needs and
flammability
378:2016
reduction that many required common over the by refrigerants long F-Gas, term. it’s today
with “1” being
of of
non-flammable,
the the refrigerant,
refrigerant
the location
used,
of equipment,
and its application.
access to
Based
it,
flammability flammable, of the but refrigerant, with “2” a burning limitations When considering
limitations in 378:2016 EN an 378:2016 alternative
in EN (or 378:2016 worldwide
clear or R290 (A3 class), can be a strong
That requirements low
said,
GWP
if
alternatives
you from have your specific
to refrigerant, R404A
needs
and you R134a.
and
on
refrigerant
ISO
it, the 5149/2014)
refrigerant location of used, equipment, and its access application. to it,
with
that cannot many be common used in cold refrigerants rooms and today other
being “1” mildly being non-flammable,
and “3”
“2” “2” refrigerant, F-Gas is not the only these Based factors,
used, and
you
its
may
application.
have consider
Based
refrigerant on these used, and factors, its application. you may have Based
When considering an alternative
For replacement those that will consider flammable requirements from your refrigerant, you
However,
For those that for will R404A. consider With a flammable GWP of may need to investigate other flammable
being
with velocity
cannot self-contained be selecting used commercial cold an alternative rooms refrigeration and to
mildly
“1” being
highly flammable,
of non-flammable, max 10
flammable. “2L”
and and
cm/s.
is
“3” “3”
“2”
an refrigerant,
When regulation considering you
safety
F-Gas is
an need
standard
not
alternative to keep in mind.
will also
The different
on these influence
to refrigerants
factors, you may
equipment
have to consider
the only
on consider
your
these factors, different you may refrigerants and have to consider or
other refrigerant
just
to comply with F-Gas, may need to investigate other flammable
system
different
designs
refrigerants
to reduce
or equipment
charge.
and
current
refrigerant 3, R290 to is compliant comply with with F-Gas, both propane, current refrigerant That said, if options.
being
being
you have specific needs and
additional highly
mildly classification flammable.
flammable,
referring
“2L” “2L”
and “3”
is an is an
regulation
refrigerant, European
When considering
you
F-Gas Committee
an alternative
need
is not
to keep
the only for Standard’s EN equipment
in mind. The
self-contained applications high-GWP over commercial the refrigerants long term. refrigeration
can be
system designs
different
to
refrigerants and system
reduce charge.
or equipment designs to and
propane, or R290 (A3 class), can be a refrigerant options.
additional
and
a
or R290 upcoming (A3 class), F-Gas can rules—across be a strong all requirements from your refrigerant, you
to being highly
refrigerants classification
flammable.
that are mildly
referring
“2L” is an
European
regulation 378:2016
refrigerant,
Committee
you (or need
F-Gas
worldwide to
is
for
keep
not
Standard’s
in
the
ISO mind.
only
5149/2014)
EN
The reduce system designs charge. to reduce charge.
applications challenge. In over the the following long term. sections,
to replacement for R404A. With a GWP of may need to investigate other flammable
flammable,
to additional refrigerants classification
but
that
with
that are are
burning
mildly mildly referring
378:2016
European safety regulation
(or
Committee standard you need
worldwide
will for
ISO
Standard’s also to keep
5149/2014)
influence in EN mind. your The
However, will give selecting advice on an alternatives to
flammable,
popular However, current non-flammable high-GWP selecting refrigerants alternative refrigerants can be to and
just 3, R290 is compliant with both current refrigerant options.
velocity to refrigerants
of max but 10 that with cm/s.
a are a burning mildly
safety
378:2016 potential European
standard
(or worldwide refrigerant Committee
will also
ISO
influence options for 5149/2014) Standard’s
your based EN on
Calculating velocity flammable, of max but 10 10 with
charge cm/s. a burning
limits safety the 378:2016 standard location (or will Step of worldwide also your influence 2. equipment. Find ISO your 5149/2014) which location
• Class IV: All refrigera
offer current a challenge. additional high-GWP In the models following refrigerants with flammable sections, can be and upcoming F-Gas rules—across all
velocity of max 10 cm/s.
safety standard
classification
will also influence
applies
your
parts are in an EN 37
refrigerants a we challenge. will give that advice In the can on following guide alternatives commercial sections, to
refrigeration we popular will give non-flammable equipment advice alternatives installers refrigerants and to and
Calculating
To calculate
charge
the charge
limits
limit for
compliant ventilated
Step 2. Find which There location are four location Class classes IV: All based refrigerant-containing
OEMs popular offer additional make non-flammable the right models choice. with refrigerants flammable and Points of attention for
Points of attention for
Calculating charge limits classification
Step 2. Find which
applies
location
•
parts
Class IV:
are
All
in
refrigerant-containing
your system, you’ll first need to
an EN 378-2 and EN 378-3
classification applies where particular refrigeration
offer refrigerants additional that models can guide with commercial flammable non-flammable refrigerants
flammable refrigerants
To calculate the charge limit for
compliant
parts are in components
ventilated
an EN 378-2
enclosure
and EN 378-3
Calculating charge limits Step 2. Find which location
• Class IV: All refrigerant-containing
There are four location classes based on
A1 refrigerants
refrigeration class, non-flammable equipment
that can guide
installers suitable commercial
and
your
To
identify
calculate
certain
system,
the
you’ll
charge
characteristics
Step 3. Find which r
first need for
compliant ventilated enclosure
Calculating charge limits to
where
There Step classification are
particular
four 2. Find location operate:
refrigeration which applies classes location components
based on
• Class parts are III: in All an refrigerant-containing
EN 378-2 and EN 378-3
refrigeration equipment installers and • Your existing tools (vacuum
• Check whether your tools
alternatives OEMs make the to R404A right choice. and R134a
Points of attention for
Points of attention for
To identify
your and system,
certain
you’ll
characteristics
first need to
calculate
classifications the charge limit
for your for
chosen
classification applie
Step 3. Find which refrigerant
operate:
where classification particular refrigeration components
OEMs make the right choice.
pumps, hoses, etc.) can most
(vaccum pump, hoses, etc)
and
identify
classifications
certain characteristics
There are four • location applies Class I: classes all refrigerating-containing based for your chosen
classification
Step 3. Find
parts compliant
which
are parts
applies
refrigerant
in ventilated EN 378-3 enclosure compliant
your refrigerant
In Europe, because of its high GWP,
non-flammable
probably be used.
refrigerants
flammable
can be used
refrigerants
system, you’ll and first equipment: need to
operate: There
with flammable
Class I: all refrigerating-containing parts
refrigerant
and classifications
and equipment:
for your chosen
where
are
particular
four location
refrigeration
classes
components
based
classification
machinery
applies
room or in open
and systems are in the occupied
R404A
A1 class, non-flammable suitable
and systems are in the occupied space As explained in the chapter above:
A1 class, will soon non-flammable be unsuitable suitable for many
• Your existing tools (vacuum
• refrigerants.
refrigerant and equipment:
• Class I: all refrigerating-containing parts
Step 3. Find space As explained air in the ch
identify certain characteristics
on
operate:
where particular refrigeration
• Class IV: All which refrigerant-containing
Check whether your tools
and systems are in the occupied space
alternatives to R404A and R134a
• Be aware of charge limits even
Understanding
As explained in
flammability
the chapter above:
classification applies
Understanding flamm
and classifications for your chosen components classifications,
applications alternatives as to a part R404A of the and F-Gas R134a regulation.
Class II: compressors
• operate: Class
and pressure
II: compressors
vessels
pressure parts are vessels in an EN 378-2 and EN 378-3
for
pumps,
non-flammable
hoses, etc.)
refrigerants
can most
• Be
(vaccum
aware of
pump,
the risks
hoses,
due
etc)
refrigerant
to
Step 1. Find which access category • all
Understanding
refrigerants have
flammability classification
classifications,
1. Find and equipment:
which access category
that
are
Class • Class
Class I:
in
II: compressors I:
all
all
refrigerating-containing
refrigerating-containing
parts
machinery room
and
or
pressure
in open
vessels
compliant ventilated enclosure all refrigerants have a
air
Same In Europe, restrictions because will of apply of its its high to high the GWP, GWP, R134a in
due
probably
to new
be
EN
used.
378:2016.
flammability
can be used
when
with flammable
working
Step 1. Find
to your
which
equipment
access category
and systems are are in in the a occupied machinery spaceroom are in a machinery room or in open air identifies
all refrigerants or As explained open
their
have
toxicity
a classification air in the chapter
and flammability.
that above:
self-contained R404A will soon units be be from unsuitable 2022. for for many many
applies
applies
to your
to your
equipment
equipment
parts and systems are in the occupied
Class III: All refrigerant-containing parts identifies Understanding their toxicity and flammability.
identifies classifications, their toxicity
refrigerants.
Step 1. Find which access category
as a part of the F-Gas
• Be aware of charge limits even
with these refrigerants
There are three access categories based •
are
Class • space Class
in
III:
an
All II:
EN
refrigerant-containing compressors • Class and III: All pressure
378-3 compliant machinery
parts refrigerant-containing vessels
Step 1. Find which access category
all refrigerants
parts
have a classification that
applications as a part of the F-Gas regulation. Charge
regulation. Same restrictions will apply
for non-flammable
is limited if:
applies To work out the maximum charge limit,
refrigerants
• Be aware of the risks due to
on There where
are three
your equipment
access categories
is installed:
based
room
are in an
or in
EN
open
378-3
air
compliant machinery
As Same we see restrictions the market will apply today, to the main R134a in
Risks could be:
applies
are to your
to your
three equipment
equipment
access categories based • Class are in II: a machinery compressors room and or pressure open air
are in an EN 378-3 compliant where your equipment is installed:
room or in open air
you
To work
will
identifies
need
out the machinery
to
maximum
know
their
the
toxicity
classification
charge and limit, flammability.
There are three access categories based • vessels Class III: are All refrigerant-containing in a machinery room parts or in
To work of out the maxim
to the R134a in self-contained units from • Any due part to new of the EN refrigeration
378:2016.
flammability when working
on where your equipment is installed:
non-flammable self-contained units replacements from 2022. are:
the
you
refrigerant
will need to
you’ll
know
be
the
using,
classification
as well as
of
on There where are your three equipment access categories is installed: based open its
2022.
system is indoor
• During with these soldering: refrigerants make sure
are in air room or in open air
an EN 378-3 compliant machinery
Acute
the refrigerant
Toxicity Exposure
you’ll be using,
Limit (ATEL)
as well you
and
as its will need to know
work out the maximum charge limit,
Charge is limited if:
on where your equipment Code A is installed: Code B Code C
there is no remaining refrigerant
room or in open air
Lower
Acute Toxicity
Flammability
Exposure
Level
Limit
(LFL).
(ATEL) and
Code A Code B Code C
you will need to know the the classification refrigerant of you’ll b
As Suitable we see replacements the market for R404A/507 today, the main
• General access to the unit (e.g.
Risks could be:
Lower Flammability Level (LFL).
As we see the market today, the main
non-flammable replacements are:
• condensing Any part of the unit refrigeration
in the system.
the refrigerant you’ll be using, Acute as well Toxicity as its Exposu
for cabinet in
R448A, R449A, R449B, R452A, R407A/F/H
Code A Code B
non-flammable replacements are:
a system butchery) is indoor
•• In During case of soldering: potential make leaks: sure avoid
Once you’ve Code Acute found C Toxicity this Exposure information, Limit you (ATEL) and
General Code access A Supervised Code accessB Authorized access Code C
Suitable replacements for R134a
there is no remaining refrigerant
can
Once
begin
you’ve
calculating
found this
charge
information, Lower
limits based
you Flammability Le
Suitable replacements for R404A/507
•• No General emergency access exit to the in the unit room (e.g.
ignition sources (light switch)
General access Supervised access Authorized access
Lower Flammability Level (LFL).
on
can
toxicity
begin calculating
and flammability
charge
limits.
limits based
in the system.
R513A, R450A
condensing unit for cabinet in
on toxicity and flammability limits.
R448A, R449A, R449B, R452A, R407A/F/H
(e.g. a normal cold room)
a butchery)
In • case In case of retrofit:
Buildings that house sleeping Buildings where only authorized Businesses and office spaces,
Once you’ve found this information, Once you’ve found th
Note: in stationary equipment (ban 12) R134a is still an
potential leaks: avoid
facilities, Buildings places that General house where General access sleeping access personnel Buildings where with Supervised full only knowledge authorized access Supervised of laboratories, Businesses access and and office Authorized manufacturing spaces, access Step Authorized 4. Calculating toxicity limits
• Room is underground
acceptable Suitable replacements refrigerant. for R134a
ignition sources (light switch)
movement facilities, places is restricted, where or a
safety personnel precautions with full may knowledge enter. of plants. laboratories, and manufacturing Step 4. can Calculating begin accesscalculating toxicity limits charge can limits begin based calculating
• No emergency exit in the room
• Check compatibility of
location movement where is restricted, anyone may or a enter safety precautions may enter. plants.
For non-human toxicity comfort and flammability applications: limits.
R513A, R450A
How (e.g. to a calculate normal cold charge room) limit:
components for the new
without location knowledge where anyone of necessary may enter
For non-human comfort applications: on toxicity and flamm
To In case of retrofit:
safety without Buildings information. knowledge that house of necessary sleeping Buildings where only authorized Businesses and office spaces,
Class A_ refrigerants typically have no
Note: retrofit in stationary R404A/R507, equipment R134a (ban 12) systems,
R134a is still an
Toxicity • Room limit is underground
of refrigerant
refrigerant: compressor,
safety information.
•
charge
Class A_ Step limits
refrigerants 4. Calculating typically have toxicity no
facilities, places where
personnel with full knowledge of laboratories, and manufacturing
limits
using
acceptable
new
refrigerant.
Buildings that house sleeping Buildings where only authorized Businesses
A1 refrigerants with lower GWP,
x room volume = max charge
• valves, Check switches, compatibility pipes, of heat
movement is restricted, or a
safety precautions may enter. plants.
charge
and office
limits
spaces,
Hospitals, facilities, courts or places prisons, where Businesses and office personnel spaces, with Staff-restricted full knowledge areas in of laboratories, Class and B_ refrigerants have toxicity limits
eliminates the need to double-check
How to calculate charge limit:
exchangers components etc.
theatres, Hospitals, location
supermarkets, courts where or anyone prisons, schools,
may enter
laboratories, Businesses and and office manufacturing spaces, supermarkets, Staff-restricted food areas and in beverage
for the new
•
university halls, public transport, plants.
manufacturers, refineries,
for
Class
each
B_
For manufacturing Step 4. Calculating
refrigerants
non-human
individual refrigerant
have
comfort
toxicity
outlined
limits
applications:
theatres, without movement supermarkets, knowledge is restricted, of schools, necessary or laboratories, a and manufacturing safety precautions supermarkets, may enter. food and beverage plants.
in
requirements To retrofit R404A/R507, that come with R134a flammable
systems, Example: Toxicity limit R449A of refrigerant in a cold room
• Check
refrigerant:
whether
compressor,
hotels, university safety location dwellings, information.
halls, public where and restaurants.
transport, anyone may plants. enter
chemical manufacturers, plants, refineries, dairies, and
the
for each • Class
EN 378
individual A_ refrigerants
standard
outlined typically For in non-human have comf
other electrical
hotels, dwellings, and restaurants.
refrigerants. using new A1 However, refrigerants there with are still
abattoirs. chemical plants, dairies, and
lower GWP,
the EN 378 charge standard limits
Toxicity x room limit: volume 0,357 = max kg/m³ charge
components
valves, switches,
need
pipes,
to be
heat
without knowledge of necessary
abattoirs.
some GWP, eliminates points eliminates the of need attention the to need double-check
the to HVAC-R
Hospitals, courts prisons,
Businesses and office spaces, Staff-restricted areas in
check requirements requirements need that to come investigate that with come flammable with (see box
for each individual refrigerant charge outlined limits in
(values in Annex of EN 378:2016)
changed.
exchangers
e.g.:
etc.
safety information.
• Class A_ refrigerants
• Class B_ refrigerants have toxicity limits
theatres, supermarkets, schools, laboratories, and manufacturing supermarkets, food and beverage
professionals
Example: R449A in a cold room
university halls, public transport, plants.
manufacturers, refineries,
to flammable
• Check whether other electrical
refrigerants. the right). refrigerants. However, there However, are still
Room volume: 3 x 4 x 2,5m = 30 m³
• Can fans be used with
AC285962316590en-000101 hotels, dwellings, and restaurants.
chemical plants, dairies, and
the EN 378 © standard
Danfoss | DCS (ACR) | 2018.11
AC285962316590en-000101 Hospitals, courts or prisons,
Businesses and office spaces, Staff-restricted areas in © Danfoss | DCS (ACR) | 2018.11
there Toxicity limit: 0,357 kg/m³
components need to be
some are points still of some attention points the of HVAC-R attention Max charge: 0,357 kg/m³ x 30 m³
flammable refrigerants ?
abattoirs.
• Class B_ refrigerants
theatres, supermarkets, schools, laboratories, and manufacturing supermarkets, food and beverage
A2L/A3 the (values in Annex of EN 378:2016)
changed. e.g.:
professionals HVAC-R classes, professionals need flammable to investigate need options to (see box for
for each individual r
= 10,7 kg
• Is the electrical installation ok
university halls, public transport, plants.
manufacturers, refineries,
longer investigate to the right). term (see choice box to the right).
Room volume: 3 x 4 x 2,5m = 30 m³
• for Can flammable the fans be refrigerants used with ?
hotels, dwellings, and restaurants.
chemical plants, dairies, and
the EN 378 standard
Max charge: 0,357 kg/m³ x 30 m³
flammable refrigerants ?
AC285962316590en-000101 abattoirs.
© Danfoss | DCS (ACR) | 2018.11
For those choosing a long-term solution,
more
A2L/A3
sustainable
classes,
alternatives
flammable
to
options
R404A/
for = 10,7 kg
• Is the electrical installation ok
R134a
longer
are
term
needed.
choice
for flammable refrigerants ?
For those choosing a long-term solution,
AC285962316590en-000101
more sustainable alternatives to R404A/
AC285962316590en-000101 © Danfoss | DCS (ACR) | 2018.11
R134a are needed. www.eurovent.me SEPTEMBER 2022 VOL. 07

NEWSLETTER
FEATURED TECHNICAL PAPER
FEATURE STORY
Step 3. Find which refrigerant
classification applies
As explained in the chapter above:
Understanding flammability
classifications, all refrigerants have a
classification that identifies their toxicity
and flammability.
To work out the maximum charge limit,
you will need to know the classification
of the refrigerant you’ll be using, as
well as its Acute Toxicity Exposure Limit
(ATEL) and Lower Flammability Level
(LFL).
Once you’ve found this information,
you can begin calculating charge limits
based on toxicity and flammability limits.
Step 4. Calculating toxicity limits
For non-human comfort applications:
• Class A_ refrigerants typically have no
charge limits
• Class B_ refrigerants have toxicity
limits for each individual refrigerant
outlined in the EN 378 standard
Step 5. Calculating flammability limits
Different calculations apply for each
refrigerant flammability classification.
The examples of calculations to the right
are all based on equipment being used
for commercial applications.
The chill factor
Commercial and industrial refrigeration tends to fall by the wayside in the
transformation towards greener technologies, despite major technological
advancements in the sector offering greater opportunity for more energy savings
and reduced operational costs. Eurovent Middle East digs deeper.
s
EN 378 : 2016
Charge limitations for
flammable refrigerant A2L
General access
e.g. schools, hotel, hospitals,
theaters
Supervised access
e.g. profesional offices, general
manufacturing sites
Authorised access
e.g. production of chemicals,
food, … Refineries, non-public
areas in supermarkets
EN 378 : 2016
Charge limitations for
flammable refrigerant A3
General access
e.g. schools, hotel, hospitals,
theaters
Supervised access
e.g. profesional offices, general
manufacturing sites
Authorised access
e.g. production of chemicals,
food, … Refineries, non-public
areas in supermarkets
Compr & vessel
indoors
Refrig equipment
indoors
Compr & vessel
outdoors
20% x LFL x room volume
but not more than 1,5 x 26m³ x LFL
Not more than
11,3 kg R454C
11,3 kg R1234yf
12,0 kg R32
20,1 kg R455A
Compr & vessel
indoors
20% x LFL x room
volume
but not more than
25 kg
Refrig equipment
indoors
Compr & vessel
outdoors
Only sealed systems.
20% x LFL x room volume
Below ground : not more than 1 kg
Above ground : not more than 1,5 kg
20% x LFL x room volume
Below ground : not more than 1 kg
Above ground : not more than 2,5 kg
20% x LFL x room volume
Below ground: not more than 1 kg
Above ground not
more than 10 kg
Above ground not
more than 25 kg
Machinery room
or open air
No limit
Machinery room
or open air
5 kg
10 kg
No limit
Ventilated
enclosure
Max
1,5 x 130m³ x LFL
Max
56,4 kg R454C
59,4 kg R1234yf
59,9 kg R32
100,6 kg R455A
Ventilated
enclosure
Max
130m³ x LFL
Max
5 kg R290
5 kg R1270
10,3 kg R610A
10,9 kg R430A
Food safety, energy efficiency
and the reduction of Greenhouse
Gases are the major drivers of
modern technologies in the field
of commercial and industrial
refrigeration. Despite initial
reluctance of stakeholders in
the region to adopt alternative
refrigerants, such as CO2 and
Ammonia, successful case studies
have showcased the viability of these
refrigeration systems. Technical
advancements have also addressed
the initial challenges related to
equipment and components that
can be installed in the Middle East,
making a case for its adoption.
However, the lack of specific
regulations in this area creates a
roadblock for the adoption of better
systems. As such, there is greater
need for education to ensure better
understanding and implementation
of new solutions available in the
market. The region could also
benefit from the examples set by
Europe, which has taken the lead in
Eco-design and F-Gas regulations.
This is especially true when it comes
to handling alternative refrigerants,
as the feedback from the industry
shows.
Navigating the refrigerants landscape
The global refrigeration sector has
undergone a slow yet steady change
over the years, as stakeholders are
forced to navigate an increasingly
stringent refrigerant landscape,
albeit to varying degrees. Francesco
Scuderi, Deputy Secretary General,
Eurovent Association, names the
increasing popularity of natural
refrigerants, such as CO2, across
Europe as an important landmark
for commercial refrigeration. Rafael
Van Eijcken, General Manager
– Middle East, Turkey and India,
Baltimore Aircoil Middle East LLC
agrees, also speaking on how
natural refrigerants remain high on
the agenda of governments across
Europe. “While many installations
still run with non-natural and
heavy refrigerants, most large
industrial refrigeration systems take
advantage and preference to run
with Ammonia, a common and easily
available natural refrigerant that
provides high energy efficiencies
and is non-polluting to the
environment.”
Providing an end-user perspective,
Bjorn Ostbye shares the same
observation. As the Manager of
Project Development for Lulu
Group International, a multinational
conglomerate operating a chain of
hypermarkets and retail companies
in the region, he says banned
refrigerants are already on the way
out and are being replaced with
new, acceptable options, though
this is still coming at a very slow
pace. “The Kigali Agreement is a
massive milestone for the industry
and the world, and the Middle East
market must be quick to adapt,” he
adds. “We must be careful now not
to become a ‘dumping place’ from
other markets and ensure that all
old installations will be updated as
soon as possible.”
Andrea Cavalet, Contracting and
After Sales Director, EPTA Middle
East, says it is only a matter of
time before customers recognise
Francesco Scuderi
Rafael Van Eijcken
the need to transition as part of a
global trend, and that considering
the lifetime of a supermarket and
the deadlines given by Kigali, it is
vital to take urgent action. “Main
supermarket chains should decide
right now which direction to take in
new projects in order to avoid much
higher expenses in the future,” he
says.
For Michele Mohorovicich,
Marketing Manager Refrigeration
– EMEA, CAREL Industries,
although there is still
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NEWSLETTER
FEATURE STORY
widespread usage of refrigerants
with high global warming potential
(GWP) in the Middle East, food
retailers are constantly being
pushed by regulatory pressure
to reduce the carbon footprint of
their refrigeration systems. This,
he says, will force them to think of
using natural refrigerants which
can help meet stricter requirements
related to energy savings and
efficiency. “Also, the availability of
high GWP refrigerants is constantly
decreasing,” he points out. “This is
also a driver to push forward with
the implementation of natural or
other alternative refrigerants with
lower GWP. Essentially, if the region
wants to stay competitive, sooner
or later all manufacturers will need
to embrace this shift, and everyone
will need to follow.”
Cavalet believes there has been
some positive momentum in the
region. He says that CO2 has
already been tried in the UAE and
successful installations have shown
how a supermarket chain can
implement these green refrigerants
at low cost and achieve high
efficiency. “There is no reason why
alternate refrigerants should not be
implemented in the Middle East.”
Building a knowledge base
Weighing in, Jelle Wagelmans,
Business Development Manager,
Evapco Europe BVBA, points out
that when it comes to the adoption
of natural refrigerants in the
Middle East, there is still room
for improvement with respect to
educating the local market. “The
high-ambient temperature is an
extra hurdle to implement CO2
in refrigeration systems in the
Middle East efficiently,” he says.
“If you operate systems at high
pressure there is less room for
errors, that’s why people in the
region are hesitating as there is a
lack of knowledge. However, this
is something we will need to work
on as the whole world is marching
towards a carbon neutral society.”
Van Eijcken says that although
there is some delay in the full
implementation of new standards
and technologies in the region,
leveraging on the experience from
overseas markets, once the position
and direction is clear among local
stakeholders, would help accelerate
the transition to natural refrigerants.
Scuderi says that the Middle East
region could learn a great deal
from European manufacturers who
have built a knowledge base from
operating in countries that have had
to adapt to the phaseout schedule
at an earlier time. “In Europe they
are skilled enough, but it was not
the case 14 years ago when it had
just started,” he says. He explains
that in the beginning, major
manufacturers in Europe had their
own academies to train technicians
internally and externally, including
senior engineers that handle more
traditional equipment. In a similar
fashion, Scuderi says that in the
Middle East, there is a clear need
for an academy for installers for
solutions with natural refrigerants
to ensure safe operations as part of
a long-term strategy. “There needs
to be a clear knowledge base among
trainers, installers and maintenance
personnel when it comes to the use
of CO2 for commercial applications,”
he says.
Mohorovicich also says that if local
industry associations promote
training programmes to cultivate
skilled workforce the same trend
can be replicated in the Middle East.
Cavalet adds that increasing the
competence of technicians would
also reassure customers who
would then see less barriers in the
implementation of such solutions.
He adds that this will support the
work of advanced industries in the
market, which act as consultants to
the customers in order to educate
and drive them towards the adoption
of more environmentally friendly
refrigerants.
Ostbye believes that such a trend is
natural. “Most of the developments
in the industry are done by
manufacturers forced by the drive
Bjorn Ostbye
Andrea Cavalet
Michele Mohorovicich
Jelle Wagelmans
to catch market shares,” he says,
pointing out that this marks the
difference between companies
willing to make the change and
those that are simply sitting back to
watch change happen. “Responsible
suppliers should work closer with
the market and arrange training
for those that are interested in
improvements and learning,” he
says. Ostbye adds that the industry
would benefit from tapping into the
incredible level of experience of
experts in the region and inviting
specialists from other parts of the
world to share their experience even
after retirement.
Putting the R in SMART
In addition to accommodating the
evolving refrigerant landscape,
another important variable shaping
the industry is the growing demand
for smarter controls. Ostbye says
that the rise of Artificial Intelligence
(AI) monitoring of refrigeration
installations and operations greatly
helps keep installations healthy,
promote longer lifespan and lower
operational costs. “It will also make
it easier for the end user to ensure
that temperature and humidity
are maintained and, therefore, the
quality of products are maintained,”
he says.
Van Eijcken is in agreement.
“There is increasing demand from
customers to measure and trend
the running conditions of their
equipment in order to optimise the
system operation towards varying
capacity demand, maximum energy
and water savings, among other
variables,” he says. “The more one
supplier can integrate into their
equipment and/or can provide
such solutions -- the stronger the
competitive advantage.” Van Eijcken
says that although the industry
seems to run a bit behind with only
few or limited solutions available
to date, leading manufacturers
are integrating full controls in
the new products launched in the
market and that this will be a trend
moving forward, exclaiming that “To
measure is to know!”.
Adding to this, Mohorovicich says
that it is now becoming imperative
When supported by good
consulting engineers, many
customers do consider
longer term perspectives
and realise optimal
efficiency and reliability
potentials
to have the option to properly
evaluate the performance of the
whole retail chain, analysing the
behaviour of all the different units
and areas in order to spot strange
deviations from the standard
expected working operation. “One
of the approaches that could
potentially bring among the largest
savings in supermarkets is related
to the implementation of cloud
connectivity solutions and IoT
technologies,” he says. “Data is
definitely to become the king in this
sector and real-time, data-driven
energy programmes can transform
energy-intensive supermarkets into
a flexible and reliable asset.”
For Wagelmans, such transparency
is not only useful to reduce the
system downtime, but it can also
assist to ensure safety. “If you
talk about systems with natural
refrigerants, it is getting more
critical. The system will need to be
monitored closely, to allow quick
action in case something goes
wrong,” he says. “That’s where
cloud connectivity and AI can play an
important role in the future.”
For Scuderi adoption is most
prevalent in bigger companies. “If
we look at big supermarket chains,
for sure the trend is that all display
cabinets and cooling installations
are under a monitoring system,
which helps in controlling energy
consumption and maintenance,”
he says. “Telemonitoring is
almost a must. Our European
manufactures provide turnkey
systems with sensors to monitor
everything remotely. This is quite
important to help in maintenance
and fine-tuning the performance
of a supermarket. For sure, smart
controls and a clear integration
between HVAC and refrigeration in
a supermarket is the best way.”
Mohorovicich adds that this also
goes a long way when it comes to
reducing operational expenditure.
However, he adds that while the
market is appreciative, there is
still a long way to go in order to
convince the end user to embrace
and understand the benefits
of investing in IoT solutions
www.eurovent.me SEPTEMBER 2022 VOL. 07

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FEATURE STORY
and digital technologies. “The
focus should be put on identifying
appropriate innovative business
models aimed at bringing real
value and benefits in the eye of
end users,” he says. “I think also
end users and manufacturers
should work together in a cocreation
way to unlock the value
behind these technologies.”
Shifting mindsets and regulations
Cavalet says that while a number
of solutions have gained stronger
ground in Europe reflecting the
market’s drive to reduce running
costs, in the Middle East available
solutions such as Electronic
Expansion Valves, VFDs on the
compressors racks, EC condenser
fans and monitoring systems, are
not yet widely implemented with
most of the main supermarket
chains placing a focus on
capital cost, often overlooking
operational cost.
As such, Van Eijcken says the
Middle East region would greatly
benefit from shifting towards a
long-term mindset. “The HVAC
industry is the largest energy
consumer in the region and
accordingly has the pressure
towards continuous improvement
in terms of quality and energy
savings,” he says. “Although the
strong desire for high quality,
the regional high pressure on
costs and pricing, and the many
different global solutions offered
on the market make it difficult for
buyers to balance the important
aspects of quality and energy
against the attractive initial
installed savings, this results
too often in year-round system
inefficiency, reduced durability,
unsafe operation and intensive
maintenance of the equipment.”
Van Eijcken adds that proper
evaluation of quality and energy
requires a holistic systems
approach and a total cost of
ownership perspective over
the lifetime of the installation.
“Absence of such an approach too
often results in choosing lower
grade equipment because of the
initial purchase attractiveness,” he
says. “However, when supported by
good consulting engineers, many
customers do consider longer term
perspectives and realise optimal
efficiency and reliability potentials,
which then often triggers an appetite
for further system improvements.”
At the end of the day, Van Eijcken
says that one should not only look to
new technologies to provide energy
savings. “Alternative, meaning
long existing and readily available
technologies may provide significant
advantages as well,” he says.
Nevertheless, to help achieve this
change in mindset, there has to be
push from regulatory stakeholders.
Ostbye says that the industry is still
very slow to act, especially in relation
to adoption of natural refrigerants,
with the majority leaving it up to the
end user to decide when and how to
act. “Therefore, it would be a great
help if there is instruction from
Authorities in the region to speed up
the process,” he says.
Cavalet adds that such a move is
important considering regulations,
along with customer demand
and industry recommendations,
typically dictate the technologies
implemented in the commercial
refrigeration market. “Local
regulations are not giving strong
directions that can drive the
decisions of the customers,” he says,
adding that he hopes a push towards
a more sustainable approach, which
is a key focus of the World Expo to
be held in October 2021 in Dubai,
would improve the awareness in the
market and boost implementation of
better technologies. The advantages
of such an approach can already
be observed in Europe, Cavalet
says, pointing to the introduction
of the F-Gas Regulation in 2014.
“Short and clear deadlines were
introduced that forced the industries
and the customers to invest and
introduce new technologies. R744
(CO2) technology had in this time
the biggest push in the history of the
refrigeration market and it is now
the most common refrigerant used.”
Weighing in, Scuderi provides
further updates on the progress
that the regulatory landscape in
Europe. “March 1, 2021 served
as the application date for the
2005 Ecodesign regulations for
commercial refrigeration,” he says.
“The regulatory process started
2005 and it has been a long path
in between. The industry has been
getting ready for this challenge and
there was a strong push for a clear
regulatory environment, applying a
progressive green thinking resulting
in low consumption equipment. I
would consider for the Middle East a
similar kind of ecodesign regulation
to push out worst performing
products.”
Scuderi adds that an important
aspect of the Eco-design regulation
is that it will be mandatory to provide
retailers with maintenance and all
related information on how to repair
the system, including dismantling
the product. “This is a step towards
a circular economy,” he stresses.
“Circular refers to recyclability of
components, including each single
screw present in a cabinet. All in
all, this helps in the reduction of
CO2 emissions thanks to the use of
refrigerants with lower GWP and
the use of remote maintenance and
controls in supermarkets. This is a
key step has been made mandatory
in Europe starting from March 1.
It would be reasonable to consider
the same path in the Middle East.
The technology is there, European
companies are ready to do it – so,
why not?”
Eurovent Middle East hosted
a webinar on supermarket
retrofits last November. The
recordings of the presentations
on technologies and solutions
are available on our YouTube
channel. They provide
comprehensive insight into the
above-mentioned options to
improve energy consumption in
supermarkets.
Unlocking opportunities for
energy savings
Industry experts present tips that they believe would help in unlocking further energy
savings in commercial and industrial refrigeration projects…
Jan Svallingson, Director of Business
Development, Frico AB:
Jan Svallingson says air curtains are gaining widespread acceptance in supermarkets and cold
storage facilities owing to its contribution to the reduction of overall energy consumption. “You avoid
cold air leaking out, which means the cooling equipment doesn’t have to work that much,” he says.
“By showcasing the decrease in energy bills such solutions offer, owners of cold rooms and big
supermarket chains have a better understanding of the financial savings they can achieve.” Svallingson
says further savings can be realised in the use of air curtains that have more sophisticated controls
and offer more automation adjusting to user requirements. “These are the things that people are
asking for because this is what helps with day-to-day operations,” he says, adding the sector is
adapting to these shifting demands.
Frank Taaning-Grundholm, Vice President,
Global HVACR Sales, ABB Motion:
Frank Taaning-Grundholm says that it is very common to have compressor racks installed with
multiple compressors in supermarkets and shopping malls. “The energy efficiency of a compressor
is best when it is running at full load, but you don’t always need the full capacity,” he says. “You will
then stage the compressors on or off to match as closely as possible the actual load in the system, but
you would still not be able to match it 100%. If you use variable speed drives instead, you can reduce
the speed on one or more compressors based on the system load and lowest energy consumption of
the system, thereby, improving the energy efficiency of the system.” Taaning-Grundholm says that
doing so would also ensure that the temperature will be more stable, and this allows the use of a more
narrow control band, which adds to the potential energy savings, as the system can run closer to the
setpoint, so the average temperature is higher, without ever exceeding the setpoint.
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FEATURE STORY
FEATURE STORY
Fanning a critical discussion
Bjorn Ostbye, Manager of
Project Development for Lulu
Group International
Bjorn Ostbye says that due to the high
temperature in air cooled condensers during
the summer months, he believes there will
be more and more water-cooled condensers
using chilled water from District Cooling and
central HVAC plants. “This will give a much
better efficiency of compressor plants, and
huge energy savings, perhaps up to 30-40%
during the hot summer months,” he says.
“This will also allow us to keep the HVAC
installation in a dedicated temperaturecontrolled
room for an extended life span.”
In addition, Ostbye says he expects to see
more use of self-contained display units
using water loops to remove the heat and
help reduce operational cost.
Francesco Scuderi,
Secretary General,
Eurovent Association:
Francesco Scuderi says energy saving can be
achieved following the use of low consumption
fans in display cabinets, LED lighting and the
introduction of doors in chilled cabinets. “We
can consider a saving of about 50% by converting
open cabinets into closed ones,” he says. “These
are the trends that represent the current status
in Europe, but which are only partially present
in the Middle East.” He adds that the solutions
have largely become the norm in Europe as they
have resulted in important energy savings and
reduction of operating costs, which makes for
an attractive payback. “It depends on options
we are considering, but we can see something
below three years,” he says. “Considering an
average lifetime of commercial refrigeration
equipment is 8-10 years, then such an RoI is
quite significant.”
Rafael Van Eijcken, General Manager – Middle East,
Turkey and India, Baltimore Aircoil Middle East LLC:
Rafael Van Eijcken says maximum energy savings have been realised on projects that focus on the
largest energy consumer in an HVAC system -- the chiller. “If a system is designed to operate with
the lowest chiller energy, meaning the lowest compressor lift, significant energy savings are realised
thanks to a slightly larger cooling tower that can provide the lowest possible water temperature to
the chiller,” he says. “This example demonstrates that a design with a slightly bigger tower, with an
eventually slightly higher fan power, can realise bigger overall system energy savings through the
chiller.” Building further on this example, he points out that HVAC systems in the region are exposed
to dusty environments which lead to fouling in the installation and gradually degrades the system
efficiency. “This requires regular cleaning which is exhaustive in efforts, time and costs,” he says.
“With a slightly higher initial installed cost, closing the loop by connecting closed circuit Cooling
Towers to the chiller will easily guarantee the highest chiller efficiency over its lifetime.”
Experts speak to Eurovent Middle East and provide a broad overview on the
differences between belt-driven and direct-driven fans, factors that propel demand
in the region, and the need for greater awareness and education in order to move the
needle towards adoption of more efficient technologies in the market.
Fans are omnipresent in HVACR
systems. They are in fan coil units,
in ducted ventilation systems,
appear as exhaust fans in kitchens
and bathrooms, find their way
in refrigerators and critical
machineries, and are one of the key
components in Air Handling Units
(AHUs). A typical hotel in Dubai can
easily harbour more than 2.000
fans within its infrastructure. Thus,
it is no surprise that fans have a
significant impact on the energy
consumption of a building and, to a
greater extent, of a country.
The European Union has accounted
for the impact of fans on the
continent’s energy consumption
through the introduction of what
is commonly known as the EU Fan
regulation, implemented as part
of its Ecodesign policy in 2011.
Markus Lattner, Managing Director
of Eurovent Middle East recalls
when this regulation came to pass:
“Initially, the EU Fan Regulation met
with some resistance and created
confusion within the industry.
However, it proved to be a motor
for innovation and investment.
Following its implementation, it
is estimated that in the period
between 2011 and 2018, more than
46,800 GWh of energy savings was
achieved.”
Unfortunately, the Middle East
presents a completely different
scenario. Despite the region’s
high ambient conditions already
necessitating greater energy usage,
older or incorrectly specified
technology is the norm, rather
than the exception. Being largely
eradicated from the European
market, belt-driven fans are still
heavily used and widely popular
among investors and planners in
the region.
Speaking on trends in the Middle
East, Lubna Shaikh, Senior
Manager, Business Development,
Trosten, points out that both beltdriven
and direct-driven fans
are used in AHUs in the region,
and that it is important to have
a clear understanding of factors
that influence demand as every
system presents advantages
and disadvantages for each
stakeholder. “In the current
market, belt-driven fans are
Markus Lattner
Lubna Shaikh
typically used for commercial
and residential projects, as it is a
more popular and cost-effective
solution,” she says. Shaikh adds
that belt-driven fans have also been
used over many decades because
it is considered a proven system
for AHUs, and that applications
involving larger volumes of air flow
rates are easily addressed with a
single fan belt-driven system.
Making a case for direct-driven
fans, Morten Schmelzer, Technical
Marketing Director, Systemair
Group says, “Simple physics proves
that belt-driven fans are inefficient
in terms of energy consumption
compared with modern solutions
such as EC plug fans, i.e. a directdriven
fan motor combination. It
is also proven that belt drives can
pollute the supply air stream and
harm products like AHUs due to
issues such as rubber residue.”
Frank Taaning Grundholm, Vice
President, Global HVACR Sales,
ABB Motion, adds that the continued
use of belt-driven fans leads to
additional energy losses in the
transmission between the motor and
the fans. “Moreover, a lot of these
belt drives are not well-maintained,”
he says. “This causes a slip or
complete failure of the belt drive
and, in many cases, the function
of the belt drive is not monitored.
Though variable speed drives can
be setup to monitor the belt drive,
it will always be less efficient than
direct-driven fans.”
For Koen van Nistelrooij, former
Managing Director of ebm-papst
Middle East, direct-driven, speedcontrolled
fans are the most
suitable option for AHUs.
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invest time in “new” technologies
and find out how these exactly
work. If consultants had more
knowledge about and confidence in
the use of direct-driven fans, they
would always go for these solutions
rather than belt-driven solutions.”
He encourages utilising fan
manufacturers’ experience and
knowledge about positioning
the fan in the unit to ensure it
is working optimally, adding
that direct-driven fans have the
benefit of being easier to install,
having less maintenance costs,
and offering multiple available
options.
Shaikh highlights that directdriven
fans are also a preferred
option for LEED-certified
projects, which has seen growing
interest in the region. She
says that EC direct-driven fans
placed in an array also serve
as a good solution to address
redundancies in operation
theatres, data centres, and other
critical applications. “In addition,
direct-driven fans are highly
suitable and recommended for
their advantages for hygienic
applications, such as convenience
and ease in cleaning,” she adds.
Grundholm mentions more
opportunities can be unlocked
highlighting how using variable
speed drives with direct-drive
fans can better match the airflow
requirements of the building at
the lowest possible energy usage.
“In addition to eliminating the belt
drive, the variable speed drives
will also operate the fans more
efficiently and the dampers will
only be used to provide air seal,
when no flow is required, such as,
when it comes to managing a fire
efficiently,” he says.
Generally, van Nistelrooij says
choosing state-of-the-art
technologies will help increase the
overall efficiency of the complete
installation. “Direct-driven fans
will save an extra filter after the
fan to get rid of rubber particles,
this reduces the internal pressure
losses. It would also be helpful to
use speed controllers to always
supply the amount of air needed,
half speed means half the amount of
air but only about 15% input power
compared to full speed.”
The need to drive a positive shift
However, there are a number of
factors particular to the Middle
East that prove to be a bottleneck
for greater adoption of directdriven
fans. Schmelzer attributes
this to the lack of minimum energy
performance standards in the
region. “In the event that there are
regulations, the requirements still
tend to be at a low level, meaning
that belt-driven solutions can still
be placed on the market without
issues,” he says.
Lack of awareness also contributes
to proliferation of these
technologies, says Schmelzer. “In
some cases, customers used to
belt drives are simply not aware
of its negative impact and that
today's solutions are much more
beneficial,” he adds. “In the EU,
through the Ecodesign Regulations,
Morten Schmelzer
Frank Taaning
Grundholm
Koen van Nistelrooij
belt-driven fans are barely ever
utilised anymore. The market
has completely transformed and
innovated due to applied boundary
conditions.”
van Nistelrooij says the prolonged
use of outdated technologies is a
result of habit. “For consultants,
it is always easier to work and
operate within a comfort zone to
ensure they have expertise on
all components and details on a
particular technology, rather than to
Schmelzer points out that
specifications that are not
adapted over time only adds to the
problem. “The same specification
requirements are copied year after
year, without adapting them to the
state-of-the-art in technological
innovation and standards,” he says.
Grundholm seconds this, adding,
“In many cases specifications are
not specific enough, which means
that the contractors have the option
of choosing the lowest cost solution
and still comply with specification.”
The cost of ‘cheap’
However, the most common
roadblock to greater adoption
relates to price pressure.
“Unfortunately, the least
efficient and outdated solution
often tends to be the cheapest,”
says Schmelzer. “The initial
price counts, but not the price
over a longer usage time. Even
if the consultant highlights
this to the investor, they often
don't get through. Accordingly,
some customers opt for beltdriven
solution, looking at costs
over energy efficiency and
sustainability.”
In agreement, van Nistelrooij points
out that capital cost (capex) often
drives project decisions. “Beltdriven
blowers are cheaper than
direct-driven speed-controlled
fans,” he says. “But when we look
at the operation costs over time, we
get a completely different picture
as the operating costs are in many
cases more than 95% of the overall
Life Cycle Costs (LCC).” Essentially,
van Nistelrooij stresses, the
dilemma lies in the fact that the
investor is taking care of the capex,
but the user of the building has to
take care about the opex. “Very
often the investor and the user are
not the same person, that makes it
really tricky for the consultant,” he
says.
Schmelzer provides an example
to underline this phenomenon.
“For the construction of a major
restaurant at the Palm Island in
Dubai, AHUs were required,” he
shares. “The cheapest solution with
belt-driven fans was selected. While
the initial price might have been
cheaper, the energy consumption
over 4-6 years was much higher
and the rate of refurbishment
increased.” Schmelzer adds that
compared to other regions, the
refurbishment rate of buildings in
the Middle East is generally higher.
As a result, he says, in the long
run, cheaper solutions, such as belt
drives, always cost more.
Grundholm says that to date the
only argument for the belt-driven
solution is that they are cheaper.
“Direct-driven fans are more
compact and have higher unit
efficiency,” he says. “Sometimes it
requires a change in AHU design
to leverage modern fan designs,
which is of course a cost for the
manufacturer, but technically any
air handling task can be managed
with direct-drive solutions, so there
is no argument against updating
the specifications to block the beltdriven
solutions.”
Grundholm further adds that any
loss that can be removed without
impacting operation negatively
should be removed, otherwise “we
will never have the best possible
utilisation of our resources”. “In
addition to the energy efficiency
and potential operation failures, the
indoor air quality is also affected,”
he says. “This is because there will
be dust from the wear of the belts,
which best case just adds load to
the filter, but worst case passes
the filter and then people in the
buildings are also breathing the
dust in our buildings. Poor indoor
air quality is not sustainable, as it
deteriorates the quality of life for
the people using the buildings and
potentially increase our costs for
providing required healthcare.”
A push to raise the bar
The industry has a larger role to
play in driving better solutions in
the market. For Grundholm, it is
not only a question of the available
technical solutions to achieve
the highest energy efficiency.
“In my view, we need to support
the consultants to strengthen
the specifications, so belt-driven
solutions are eliminated without
causing unfair trade barriers,”
he says. “It is essential that
specifications support competition
in the market and provide room for
development of new innovative
solutions, which positively
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support a sustainable development.”
He adds that specifications have to
state needs and requirements but
should focus as little as possible
on specific technologies as new
technologies enter the market all
the time.
Lattner believes that international
climate agreements will also soon
have an impact. “Following the
Paris Agreement, there is mounting
pressure on every government to
accelerate the reduction of carbon
emissions,” he says. “This results
in a growing number of technical
regulations incorporating minimum
energy performance standards.
Within the region, countries like
Saudi Arabia are demanding
a minimum motor efficiency
corresponding to IE3 classification.
We expect that within the next five
years, there will be a more defined
approach towards fans and fan
motor technologies by regulatory
bodies.”
However, Lattner also underlines
the responsibility of the building
industry. “If we have more efficient
technology available, then we must
alert market players and motivate
them to switch as soon as possible,
rather than waiting for governments
to act,” he says. “The leaders in
Middle East have provided clear
visions for a sustainable future.
If we applaud them for it, we also
have to act accordingly.”
For Schmelzer, what is needed i
the strong engagement of
associations, such as Eurovent
Middle East and AMCA, to work
towards higher standards, educate
the market, and objectively outline
the benefits of thinking in the longterm
instead of only about the initial
sales price. “The recommendation
to phase out belt-driven fans soon
to be published by Eurovent Middle
East can only be the beginning of
a multitude of actions to take the
HVACR sector in the GCC region to
the next level for the mutual benefit
of society, economy an
the environment,” he says.
When does it
make sense to
have a
belt-driven fan?
Lubna Shaikh, Senior Manager,
Business Development, Trosten
believes that it is important to
provide context for the use of beltdriven
technologies, adding that
smaller air flow rates selected
for higher static pressures
are required to operate at very
high speeds, and such speeds
are generally addressed by the
selection of drives in belt driven
system. “For direct-driven, the
fan speed shouldn’t exceed the
motor speed,” she says. “For
example, if a 2-pole motor is
selected, the motor speed is 2900
rpm approximately and in such a
case, the fan selection of a directdriven
system shouldn’t exceed a
speed of 2900 rpm. In case of very
high air flow rates, due to single
width construction followed for
plenum / plug fans, we need to
select multiple fans. With multiple
fans, it is important to consider
non-return dampers to avoid any
recycling of air through the failed
fan or fan resulted in breakdown.”
Morten Schmelzer, Technical
Marketing Director, Systemair
Group also says there are certain
cases where belt-driven fans
are suitable, such as for scroll
housing. “If you have a high
external static pressure, or high
total static pressure, a plug fan
can have trouble coping with it,”
he explains. “This becomes valid
as of roughly 1200Pa total static
pressure, in which case the
scroll housing is required to
transfer dynamic pressure into
static pressure.”
Shaik adds that for beltdriven
fans, drives need to be
selected at least at 150% over
the power to be transmitted
as drives selected to the exact
power of transmission may
lead to heating up of drives and
sometimes, breakage in belts.
“Typically, the belts expand a bit
during the first few weeks of the
operation and require tightening
of drives to avoid belt sagging,”
she says. “Laser tools allow
accurate and efficient alignment
of drives. Periodic maintenance
is required to lube drive shaft
bearings, align the sheaves, and
tighten the belt. Semi-skilled
technician can handle standard
starter panel which are normally
used for belt driven systems.
In case of VFD panels, skilled
technicians are required.”
Further drawing a comparison,
Shaikh says that belt-driven
fans can be connected to
conventional starters and VFD
is not mandatory because
any air flow rate corrections
are generally carried out by
changing the drives applying the
fan law. “Variable Frequency
Drive (VFD) is a must in case of
direct-driven fans,” she says.
Roadmap to more efficient
data centre cooling in the
Middle East
Asim Ansari of Airedale International Air Conditioning writes for Eurovent Middle
East on the urgent need for more sustainable data centre cooling practices, how
to optimise performance in the GCC region, and opportunities for free cooling in
high-ambient conditions.
The increasing reliance on data
owing to the global community’s
rapid digitalisation underscores
the fundamental importance of
data centres in modern times. The
demand is only set to increase
as the world steadily moves
toward digital processes for many
aspects of social, professional,
and economic life. However, with
this growth comes scrutiny and
as data centres become crucial to
our way of life, while consuming
a greater share of our natural
resources, the need for both
reliability and sustainability is
magnified.
The first, and perhaps most
pressing issue is the impact
that such operations have in
the context of climate changemitigation
efforts. Missioncritical
applications, such as
data centres, are known for
being energy-intensive, which is
potentially detrimental to broader
sustainability targets.
The second concern is related to
the growing burden of operating
cost. The growing energy
consumption of more demanding
data centres is coming at a time
when energy costs are on the
rise. This has made operators
eager to look for solutions that
can help improve the bottom-line,
which can come in the form of
maximising rack density.
It is important to remember
that server cooling accounts for
40-50% of Data Centre energy
cost. This means addressing
this key issue will be helpful
in sustainability measures and
profitability. However, the rapid
growth of the industry has meant
the supply chain has struggled
to keep up. Just a few years ago
for example, chillers were facing
serious issues in the Data Centre
sphere as operators required
a lot more from their cooling
systems than was offered or
available on the market. For some
time, chiller operating limits and
efficiencies were preventing the
industry from achieving the PUEs
that it strived for and, simply put,
past efficiencies were no longer
sufficient.
As problems with chillers
continued, alternatives like
adiabatic dry air coolers were
taking advantage of elevated
supply air temperatures to provide
solutions without the need for
compressors. Chillers, at the time,
were extremely inflexible, and
had relatively limited operating
envelopes.
The Middle East dilemma
These typical challenges are
especially aggravated in the Middle
East. The economic boom in the
GCC region attracted international
conglomerates and created
a need for a reliable digital
infrastructure. However, there
were a number of complications
unique to the region.
As previously mentioned,
cooling contributes to a big
chunk of the data centre’s
energy consumption. The
requirement is all the more
higher in the Middle East,
in view of the high-ambient
conditions. The region also
sees minimal rainfall and water
scarcity, which designers must
be mindful of.
There is also greater scope for
improvement in terms of raising
awareness in the market on
better cooling practices within
data centres. In the region,
conservative temperature
management is the norm.
There is a habit of maintaining
data centres at unnecessarily
cool temperatures. In Europe,
however, and in many parts
of the world, it is common
to raise the temperatures
as high as possible, in line
with updated guidelines on
server operating envelopes, to
maximise efficiency. There is
still a general reluctance in the
UAE and GCC region for such an
approach, out of unfamiliarity
or due to the time lag to catch
up with global trends. This is
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Asim Ansari
where the industry needs to work
together and send a message
that raising set points can be key
to achieving greater efficiency
without compromising on uptime
and reliability.
guidelines and now recommend
supply temperatures between
18 and 27 degrees C. However,
a much wider operating band
exists in the “allowable” range,
which represent the actual limits
at which IT equipment should
be subjected to. This gives data
centre operators more flexibility
in terms of temperature setting,
with the caveat that outside the
recommended range, there is an
expected impact on reliability,
defined as the “X Factor”.
Typical failure rates for IT
equipment are low, around 2-4%
annually. According to updated
ASHRAE calculations, operating
at the top of the allowable range
(45°C) would only increase the
failure rate by an additional 3-7%.
In Figure 1 and Figure 2, we
present studies conducted on the
savings that can be achieved from
raising the temperature in stages
using an annual temperature
profile for Dubai.
20 degrees C, 24 degrees C, 28
degrees C and 36 degrees C
Raising the Air-On temperatures
to the CRAC unit reduces energy
consumption
Consider the possibilities
With raised temperatures, the
possibility of introducing a degree
of free cooling is now realised;
previously a pipe dream in hot
regions. Going back to my previous
comment on chillers, earlier chiller
designs and system applications
were not taking full advantage of
free cooling opportunities, and this
lack of system optimisation led to
further energy wastage. In freecooling
operation, up until recently,
typical approach temperatures
were wide, resulting in low supply
water temperatures, which had a
significant impact on energy usage.
Higher data centre temperatures,
coupled with a new generation of
thinking around chillers and free
cooling systems, where approach
temperatures are narrow and
Delta Ts are wide, means that freecooling
can be achieved even in
higher ambient regions such as
the Middle East.
Redesigning free cooling coils,
simplifying air paths, increasing
coil surface area, ducting hot
air directly to the CRAC units
and unifying indoor and outdoor
equipment with intelligent
software systems, are all
factors of these optimised
systems that have allowed
Airedale to take advantage
of evolving temperatures to
maximise free cooling and save
energy.
Its potential to be used even in
high-ambient conditions has
also been proven. We have had
experience in the design of free
cooling systems in high ambient
regions and believe this could
be achieved in the Gulf.
We believe there is strong
potential for concurrent cooling
for data centres in the Gulf region,
which sees the hybrid operation of
a chiller’s mechanical operation
and free cooling design working in
tandem.
Without a doubt, there are great
benefits that can be achieved in
the use of concurrent cooling,
especially in terms of energy
efficiency and sustainability.
However, at the moment, in view
of the GCC region’s relatively
low energy prices, the extra cost
required to switch from a standard
chiller to a free cooling chiller
might not be able to justify the
extra initial cost. However, the
technology and solutions are very
much available to stakeholders
in the Middle East, and with the
global energy prices on the rise
it could be a good opportunity
How to optimise data centre
performance
Cooling Split at each DC Size and Water Temperatures
Generally, there is a need to
drive better understanding
of existing references in the
market when considering what
temperature to operate the data
centres. The American Society
of Heating, Refrigerating, and
Air-conditioning Engineers
(ASHRAE) publishes guidelines
for temperature and humidity
operating ranges of IT equipment
(the ASHRAE guidelines cover
server inlet air temperatures,
not air conditioning discharge
temperatures).
The original ASHRAE air
temperature recommended
envelope for data centers was
20-25 degrees C. This was a
conservative statement, based
on data available at the time,
on how a data center could be
reliably operated. Reliability
and uptime were the primary
concerns and energy costs were
secondary. Since then, in-line
with technology advancements
and a focus on sustainability,
ASHRAE have updated their
Figure 1: Based on a 200kW DC, 5 x CRAC units
Typical cost savings of $10,000 USD per year can be achieved
Figure 2: Energy savings summary
Figure 3: Free Cooling Opportunity with raised Chilled Water temperatures
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for stakeholders to stay ahead of
the curve and future proof their
operations from rising energy costs.
Another helpful approach
to achieving energy savings
and impressive Power Usage
Effectiveness metrics is through
the use of intelligent controls
systems. Essentially, an optimised
HVAC is the harmonisation of the
equipment with the environment and
a combination of unit controls and
building controls can ensure HVAC
systems run effectively at their most
efficient operating settings.
Working for a more sustainable
future
With the increase in number of colocation
data centres, as well as the
roll-out of 5G, data centre operators
will have to adapt better efficiency
standards to meet customer
demand. Overall, I believe there
has been a significant improvement
in the Middle East in terms of
embracing best standards of
education and there has also
been more influence from the
data centre industry in the global
scale. The knowledge shared
from experts working in other
parts of the world has influenced
temperatures and improved
working practices.
However, we need to work
together to create a positive
shift in mindsets and move away
from traditional approaches.
This highlights the importance
of platforms, such as Eurovent
Middle East. It is our responsibility,
as an industry, to develop
communication aimed at sharing
best practices that will be helpful
to all relevant stakeholders.
This includes informing the
manager of a data centre that
raising the temperature is a
more environmentally friendly
approach, helping consultants
become acquainted with the latest
technology in the market, and
Figure 4: Trend of Raising Chilled Water temperatures in the DC environment
educating the public sector to raise
federal government standards.
As the data centre industry grows,
so does its demand on the planet’s
natural resources, including power
and water, and as cooling systems
and techniques evolve, there is
an opportunity for data centre
operators in this region not only to
save money but also play a greater
role in conserving our natural
resources.
How can active front-end
drives boost energy efficiency
and save on capital costs?
Harmonics are troublesome for electrical networks as they can cause unreliable
operation and overheating as well as requiring expensive oversizing of equipment to
handle them. But local energy losses through waste heat are only part of the reason
why harmonics are bad for energy efficiency. They also cause a poor power factor
that brings down the energy efficiency of the whole network. Frank Taaning Grundholm,
Vice President, Global HVACR Sales, ABB Motion, explains why harmonics occur and
how active frontend (AFE) drives can eliminate them at source.
Variable speed drives (VSDs) play a
critical role in improving the energy
efficiency of motors, pumps, and fans
across a wide range of industries
such as water, HVAC, oil and gas,
power, pulp and paper, marine, food
and beverage, metals and mining.
They save energy by controlling
the speed of electrical motors to
match the needs of the application.
This is particularly important as
many industrial motors are running
at well below their peak load for
most of the time. However, with the
many advantages of VSDs comes
a potentially troublesome power
quality issue known as power line
harmonics that can have an adverse
effect on both system reliability and
energy efficiency.
If these harmonics are not
addressed, they can cause damage
to sensitive electronic equipment,
interference in communication
equipment, and false readings on
measurement devices. Harmonics
can trip circuit breakers, blow fuses
and cause capacitor bank failures.
The effects also include overheating
of transformers, cables, motors,
generators and capacitors, wasting
energy and shortening their life.
Equipment must be designed to
tolerate harmonics in the network
and oversizing leads to higher
investment costs and underutilized
capacity.
Harmonics arise from non-linear
loads
In an ideal situation, the alternating
current (AC) power supply serving
industrial facilities shows a pure
sinusoidal wave form – see Figure
01. It has a frequency of either 50
or 60 Hertz (Hz), depending on the
region of the world.
In practice, this pure sine wave is
never present, amongst other due
to the industrial use of non-linear
loads that create harmonics. These
harmonics cause the sine wave to
deviate as shown in Figure 02.
VSDs are not the only equipment
that create harmonics. They result
from all loads supplied from a
rectifier, which for example includes
EC (electronically commutated)
motors, LED or fluorescent
lighting, mobile phone chargers,
computers, uninterruptible power
supplies (UPS) and Wi-Fi routers
- basically every single type of
modern electronic device. Direct
on-line (DoL) motors and oldfashioned
light bulbs do not cause
Frank Taaning
Grundholm
harmonics as they are linear loads,
but DoL motors cause phase angle
displacement issues, which is just
another kind of power quality issue.
Harmonic disturbances should not
be confused with radio frequency
interference (RFI). Harmonics are
multiples of the base frequency
and are therefore relatively low in
frequency, typically below 2,500
Hertz (Hz). In contrast RFI is
usually above 150 kilohertz
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(kHz). RFI disturbances can
be radiated and/or conducted.
Harmonics are always conducted.
The impact of harmonics on
the network is measured as a
percentage value known as the
total harmonic distortion (THD).
This is the ratio of the RMS
(root mean square) harmonic
content to the RMS value of the
fundamental frequency. Where
no voltage or current harmonics
exist the THD is 0%. As the level
of harmonics increases, the THD
value increases. THDi is the total
harmonic distortion on current
and THDu or THDv is the total
harmonic distortion on voltage.
The higher the harmonic current
content (THDi), the higher the
losses in the power network – for
example, a 40% THDi results in
16% higher losses than a network
with no harmonics. That means
increased energy costs. And it also
requires the electrical system to
be dimensioned to carry the excess
current.
A single 4 kW drive, even with
100% THDi, will not necessarily
cause problems for the whole
network. But it is important to
consider the cumulative effect
of harmonic distortion of a
number of drives at the point of
common coupling (PCC) – where
the network serving the facility
connects to the local utility
distribution network.
Methods for tackling harmonics
Oversizing of critical electrical
equipment is one approach to
tackling the overheating created
by the harmonic current. As
an example, transformers and
cables may be increased in size.
Oversizing of backup generators
is also a common way to mitigate
some of the challenges created by
harmonics.
This approach to tackling
harmonics can be expensive, and
often ineffective. Instead, it is
better to use equipment that does
not cause harmonics in the first
place. That is why the industry is
now adopting a new generation of
ultra-low harmonic drives.
Drives that produce exceptionally
low levels of harmonics
Ultra-low harmonic (ULH) drives
have harmonics mitigation
built in. This includes an active
front end (AFE) and integrated
low harmonic line filter. There
is no need for external filters,
multi-pulse arrangements or
special transformers. The simple
installation offers significant
savings in space, time and money.
Compared to a conventional drive,
the harmonic content is reduced
by up to 95%. The total harmonic
current distortion (THDi) of a ULH
is typically 3%. In contrast, with an
external passive filter the typical
total harmonic distortion is between
5 to 10%.
Furthermore, as the risk of
overheating is reduced with the
reduction of harmonic currents,
there is no need to over-dimension
equipment, such as transformers
and cables.
Power factor is the important factor
Harmonics also affect the power
factor (PF). This describes how
effectively an electrical network
uses the power it draws. True
power factor considers both the
displacement power factor (also
known as CosΦ) and distortion
power factor (that is a function of the
amount of harmonic current). In the
very best case, a network will have a
PF of unity (1).
In some cases, utilities impose
penalty charges on buildings
with a poor power factor. Adding
a standard VSD to a motor will
improve its displacement power
factor, which is an issue with all DoL
motors, but add to the distortion
due to the drive rectifier. ULH drives
mitigate harmonics which positively
affects the true power factor. They
also have the ability to compensate
reactive power which improves the
displacement power factor of the
installation.
To illustrate the difference, a
standard 6-pulse drive might have
a true PF of around 0.78, causing
Figure 3 – Comparison of the overall system costs with a standard drive and a ULH drive with an active front end (AFE).
it to draw an increased line
current of 128% of the nominal.
In contrast, a ULH drive with a
true PF of 1 will draw only the
nominal current (100%).
Essentially, ULH drives not only
optimize the energy efficiency
of the applications, but they
also help make the overall
power network more efficient.
The result is lower electricity
bills.
Why system efficiency is more
important than component
efficiency
The benefits of ULH drives
must be viewed in the context
of a complete system, as shown
in Figure 3. The standard
6-pulse drive on its own has
a higher efficiency. But the
efficiency drop in the filter
added to address harmonics,
and the lower motor voltage
(370 V as opposed to 400 V),
make the overall system
efficiency lower. Therefore, the
system with the ULH drive has
lower operating costs.
Boosting reliability while
saving capital costs
average cost of a downtime incident
is USD 16,000 (source: Garvey). In
the automotive industry, the costs
are even higher - up to USD 48,000
per minute, the equivalent of over
USD 2.7 million per hour.
It might seem counter-intuitive to
suggest that selecting ULH drives
could impact the capital costs of
a facility. However, the situation
becomes clearer when you consider
that the electrical systems are
accountable for a large proportion
of the cost of a new facility.
Deploying ULH drives means
that the key electrical assets
will not have to be over-sized
to accommodate the potentially
harmful effects of harmonics.
Rather, they can be optimized to
match the actual load more closely,
and therefore their capital cost
is lower. This ‘right-sizing’ effect
ripples through the facility. For
example, with ULH drives, cable
costs can be reduced by about 10%
compared with using standard
6-pulse VSDs. Furthermore,
distribution transformer costs
are reduced by 20%, generator
costs are reduced by 50%, while
switchgear and circuit breaker
costs could be cut by 10–30%.
networks, they soon experience
a positive return on investment.
This comes in terms of improved
reliability, longer equipment life,
lower energy bills and reduced
capital costs.
A particularly elegant and costeffective
solution is to deploy
ultra-low harmonic (ULH) drives
such as ABB’s ACS880 range
that mitigate harmonics at
source. ABB has also developed
Industry-specific ULH drives for
the HVAC and water industries.
For further information: https://
new.abb.com/drives/segments/
hvac
Figure 01 – the ideal electrical supply has a perfectly sinusoidal wave form.
Figure 02 – in practice, the wave form is often distorted by harmonics, this example being from a VSD with three phase diode
bridge rectifier and DC coils.
There is a further reason for
specifying ULH drives, which
is the very significant cost of
process downtime that can
result from the failure of
critical electrical assets. Some
estimates suggest that the
A proactive approach to harmonics
pays dividends
When designers and operators of
buildings and industrial systems
take appropriate action to address
harmonics in their electrical
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FEATURED TECHNICAL PAPER
Review of Certification
Procedure for Inverter Air
Conditioner
By Dr A. Nour Eddine, Air-Conditioner Program Manager,
Eurovent Certita Certification
Considerable technology
advancement in comfort airconditioners
designs over the past
few decades have seen a substantial
development in the variable speed
compressor operation (inverter airconditioner).
Most of the current
international standards allows the
intervention when testing these units
to provide the setting parameters,
while some still forbid it to prevent
manufacturer interference.
This study reviews the testing
methods of the two types of airconditioners
in the different
scientific literature and international
standards. The results showed that
SImple refregeration cycle
it is not possible to test the IAC unit
on a fixed rating capacity without
providing the setting parameters
such as the compressor speed and
frequency and the fan speed. To
guarantee no further interference
from the manufacturer, using a
third-party certification body has
showed an efficient solution until
further development of the testing
methods…
Introduction
Interest for air-conditioning (AC)
systems has exponentially expanded
worldwide throughout the most
recent couple of decades. The global
Dr A. Nour Eddine
market size was valued at 106.6
billion USD in 2020 with an expected
compound annual growth (CAGR) of
6.2 % until 2028[1]. The expanding
rate of electricity and aggressive
effect on the environment from
power generation pushed to
substantial developments in
the variable speed compressor
(inverter). The inverter segment
account for 50% of the market in
India [2] and is projected to expand
globally at a CAGR of 7.7% [1] in
a 6-year period. This growth is
attributable to inverter AC’s (IAC)
due to the difference in operation
comparing to conventional AC’s.
An AC is a mechanism designed
to maintain and control the
air temperature and humidity
within an area. The operation is
Inverter VS non Inverter
typically performed by a simple
refrigeration (vapor compression)
cycle (Figure 1).
A typical refrigeration cycle
uses an electric motor to drive
the compressor. The two most
common types of compressors
are the ‘fixed speed’ type and the
‘variable speed’ (inverter) types.
With conventional ‘fixed-speed’
air conditioners, the compressor
is either on (working to 100%
capacity) or off. An inverter in an
air conditioner is used to change
the compressor’s motor speed
to drive variable refrigerant
flow in an air conditioning
system to achieve the desired
temperature conditions in indoor
space. It maintains the desired
temperatures without wild
fluctuations. Figure 2 shows the
difference in room temperature
fluctuation between fixed speed
and IAC units. IAC provide
ability to control the speed of
the compressor motor which
helps in continuous regulation
of temperature. It also helps in
saving energy and power with
the help of a variable speed
compressor. Additionally,
other benefits such as no
temperature fluctuations,
longer durability, faster
cooling, and reduced noise in
comparison with non-inverter
ACs are expected to fuel the
demand for inverter technology.
The fundamental difference
in operation required further
investigations through the
years to validate the efficiency
of testing and rating IAC units
using the same methods of
conventional AC’s. Mavuri
et al. [3]tested IAC using the
calorimeter test method. The
results showed that to test the
IAC on part load on specific
room temperature conditions,
it should either be in a locked
mode where the instruction for
fixing the compressor speed is
supplied by the manufacturer
and the capacity is directly
proportional to the compressor
speed, either testing the IAC
in a field operation mode by
fixing a thermal load instead
of fixed room temperature or
capacity. The dependency of the
unit capacity to the compressor
frequency has also been showed
in a thermal model created
by Hui et al.[4]. Another study
[5] on the effect of unlocked
test using the calorimeter
room method on the Minimum
energy Performance Standards
(MEPS) on IAC results in some
unit failing to comply with
the MEPS requirements and
consumed much higher level
of electricity compared to a
fixed load or locked capacity
test. This result is far from
real life performances since
it was proven by several field
studies that IAC enormously
reduce power consumption in
comparison to conventional AC’s
such as Almogbel et al. [6] who
studied the energy consumption
of an AC and an IAC for 108
days, and showed 49% less
energy consumption of the IAC
comparing to conventional AC.
www.eurovent.me SEPTEMBER 2022 VOL. 07

NEWSLETTER
FEATURED TECHNICAL PAPER
Calorimeter room method schematic
Despite clear scientific evidence
of the difference in operation
of the conventional AC and IAC,
there is no definitive solution
in the international regulation
to differentiate the testing
procedure of these two types
of units. This article presents
the adopted solutions of the
regulation’s commissions in
different countries and the
feedback and experience of
Eurovent Certita Certification
(ECC) body for this matter.
Inverter Air-Conditioner Testing
schemes
For a variety of HVAC equipment,
many testing methods have been
developed. Heating balance
method (calorimeter room
method) and enthalpy difference
method are commonly used for
testing HVAC equipment.
Calorimeter Room (Figure 3)
test heat balance test device
is a room air conditioning
performance test device. The
method of calibrating the
performance of air conditioner
with calorimeter test bench
is called Room heat balance
method. The basic principle is
based on the law of conservation
of thermodynamics (the first law
of thermodynamics): that is
Input Energy = Output Energy
The air enthalpy difference method
(Figure 4) is a way to test the
performance of the air conditioner
by measuring the enthalpy and
the circulating air volume of the
air at the inlet and outlet of the air
conditioner. It consists of measuring
the enthalpy difference of the
inlet and outlet air inside the air
conditioner chamber and calculate
the air conditioner capacity through
the heat exchanger air flow. The
enthalpy is measured by measuring
the temperatures of dry and wet
bulbs (T-Ts method).
When testing the IAC freely without
setting the parameters from the
manufacturer, the capacity of the
unit would not be constant even
if the ambient temperature is
constant. The internal control of
the unit will compensate for the
thermal load of the room. The
IAC unit will be checking the air
temperature from time to time
using its own censor and will adapt
with the capacity being delivered to
compensate the thermal load. If the
unit determine that the temperature
is going down in a cooling capacity
test then the unit will realize that
the capacity delivered is too much
and it will reduce the capacity by
reducing the compressor frequency.
On the opposite side, if the ambient
conditions are going up, then the
unit would increase the capacity
by increasing the compressor
frequency and the fan speed and
Enthalpy difference methode schematic
the electronic expansion valve on
both sides of the unit. During the
test of IAC, to maintain the unit on
a fixed capacity, the operational
parameters of the unit should
be fixed (compressor frequency,
electronic expansion valve and the
fan speed).
As one can see from how both
testing methods function, the IAC
with a variable capacity could not
be tested using the calorimeter
room method and is too difficult to
test using the air enthalpy method.
Therefore, in the current state of
available technology, testing an
IAC should require setting fixed
parameters such as compressor
speed and frequency and in some
cases fan speed and the expansion
valve opening. This could be done
by manually involving a thermostat
included in the unit or automatically
with a preset parameters in what is
called testing mode. This procedure
aims to convert the IAC unit into
a fixed speed compressor unit for
testing purpose.
International regulations and
standards for testing IAC’s
The test procedures for Air
Conditioners are slightly different
between each governing body.
With different climates and
equipment markets in each
country, the high and low
temperature test conditions
each test procedure are slightly
different. This section discusses
the scope of each test procedure
and reviews their similarities
when testing the IAC’s[8].
• ISO
The ISO standard 5151, which is
incorporated either by reference
or in full by many countries,
applies to non-ducted air-cooled
ACs and air-to-air heat pumps,
and small ducted ACs and heat
pumps. The scope of the standard
covers both packaged and split
systems but limits the split
systems to multi-split systems
controlled by a single thermostat.
The standard specifies that single
capacity, variable capacity, and
multiple capacity units are also
covered.’
• Australia
The Australian standard, AU/
NZ 3823.4.1, covers air-cooled
ACs and air-to-air heat pumps.
This test method is the ISO 16358
standard, which incorporates
the entire scope of ISO 5151, ISO
13253, and ISO 15042. ISO 13253
covers ducted air-cooled air
conditioners and ducted air-to-air
heat pumps. ISO 15042 is the test
procedure that covers multi-split
and multi-circuit non-ducted
systems. Both single and variable
capacity systems are covered.
• China
The Chinese standard GB/T 7725-
2004 test procedure applies to
non-ducted units with a cooling
capacity below 14 kW. The units
can be either water-cooled or aircooled.
• European Union
The EU test procedure covers
both packaged and split system
ACs and heat pumps. These
products can be variable
capacity by any means, ducted
or non-ducted, single-split
or multi-split systems. The
definition for multi-split
from the EU aligns with the
US definition (below). As for
IAC’s the EN 14511 clearly
states that the setting of the
frequency shall be done for
each rating condition. The
manufacturer shall provide in
the documentation information
about how to obtain the
necessary data to set the
required frequencies and/or
the fan when different from
the maximum one to set on the
control device for a given rating
condition.
It even allows when skilled
personnel with knowledge of
control software is required
for the start of the system, the
manufacturer or the nominated
agent should be in attendance
when the system is being
installed and prepared for tests.
- Japan
The Japanese standard JIS
B 8615-1:2013 and JIS B
9612:2013 applies to packaged
and split system ACs with a
rated cooling capacity of 10
kW or less. Japan references
ISO 5151 for its standard, with
country specific adjustments to
the testing conditions.
• Korea
Korea’s standard KS C 9306
2017 test procedure is limited
to packaged and split systems
with a rated cooling capacity
of 35 kW or less. The main
deviation in scope from the
other countries is the exclusion
of split systems with multiple
indoor units.
• United States
The test procedure established by
the United States was updated in
2017, and a new test procedure
will go into effect in 2023. The
current test procedure covers
both heat pumps and ACs
configured as single package
units and split system units. The
standard specifies that the split
system units can be designed as
multi-head mini split, multi-split,
and multi-circuit systems.
As a US certification body,
the AHRI standard 1230-2010
allows skilled personnel from
the manufacturer to intervene
to set the control software for
an IAC. In addition to setting the
compressor frequency needed
to operate at targeted nominal
capacity.
- Canada
The Canadian testing procedure
are presented in the CSA EXP07
SCOP, ICOP. It allows using both
air enthalpy and calorimeter room
methods depending on the type of
the unit. It covers both fixed and
variable speed compressor types.
In all the presented standards,
variable capacity units are
currently tested at fixed
compressor speeds. When
installed, the speed of the
compressor increases/decreases
dynamically to condition the
space. To test these units in
a fixed-speed mode, a lab/
testing body must contact the
manufacturer to upload specific
software or connect specific
equipment to force the unit into
a testing mode. The necessity of
manufacturer intervention when
testing these units opens up the
procedure to interference by
allowing changes to be made to
the unit that are not present when
operating in the field.
While there is no other available
solution in the present, both
Canada and the EU are working
to establish dynamic load-
www.eurovent.me SEPTEMBER 2022 VOL. 07

NEWSLETTER
FEATURED TECHNICAL PAPER
based test procedures for
room air conditioners and heat
pumps. These proposed test
methods (CSA EXP07 and EN
14825) use an adaptation of
the psychrometric approach
to introduce sensible and
latent heat loads to the indoor
room and test the unit’s
control scheme for managing
space temperature. The
goal of developing these test
procedures is to reflect the
operation of a unit more closely
in the field, which would better
characterize unit operation at
lower temperatures, better
represent the efficiency gains
associated with variable speed
equipment and eliminate the
ability to override controls.
Certified air conditioners
test results in one qualification campaign
There are other initiatives such
as keeping the same test method
but introducing verification after
or before the test to check that
the inverter unit run at the same
parameters in real life conditions
than those used for the test.
These test procedures are in the
process of being developed, and
some have raised concerns that
the inherently dynamic nature of
such test approaches may make
them difficult to reproduce. Until
one of these methods is valid
enough, referring to a third-party
certification body that controls
the communication between the
laboratory and the manufacturer
could be the best available solution
for testing an IAC by allowing
the manufacturer to provide
the required parameters for
testing while ensuring no further
modifications or intervention on
the unit.
Eurovent Certita Certification
(ECC) feedback and experience
Established in 1993, Eurovent
Certita Certification is recognized
as a world leader in third-party
product performance certification
in the Heating, Ventilation, Air
Conditioning, and Refrigeration
fields. In the Technical
Certification Rules document
(TCR)[9] for the Air-conditioners,
it covers in its scope Comfort
air cooled air conditioners and
air/air heat pumps rated up to
100 kW cooling capacity. The
program follows the standards
EN 14511 and EN 14825 for the
testing methods and procedures.
All the certified products and
performances are available the
ECC website [10].
In application of the Certification
Manual (CM) and the TCR of
the program, ECC forbid any
direct communication between
the manufacturer and the
laboratory. The communications
should be restricted with those
allowed by the standards such as
installation/ start up procedure
and information about the
compressor frequency and fan
speed for the case of inverter.
This information is collected using
a locked document provided to
the manufacturer by ECC and the
necessary information are then
transferred to the laboratory. Any
further required information by
the laboratory should be acquired
by the intermediate of the
certification team.
Currently ECC have 6217 certified
Air-Conditioner on its website.
The IAC’s represent the larger
part of these products (Figure 5).
The control of all communication
between the laboratory and the
manufacturer guarantees the
testing body should have all the
required information for following
the testing standards while
restricting the intervention of
the manufacturer not allowing
any changes to be made to the
unit that are not present when
operating in the field. This could
be visible in the results of the
2020 surveillance campaign
where 7% (Figure 6) of the
tested seasonal efficiencies has
been rerated, even though that
the manufacturer provided the
setting parameters for the IAC’s
as allowed by the standards.
Conclusion
IAC and AC have a different
type of compressor and though
different functionality. According
to the reviewed established test
procedure, IAC’s are currently
tested at fixed compressor
speeds. To achieve that, the
current test standards allow
IAC manufacturer to lock the
compressor speed for a desired
rated capacity. This could be
done by setting the parameters
of the unit on each of the
targeted capacity tests. This
requires an allowed intervention
of the manufacturer when
testing these units which opens
the procedure to interference.
The EU and Canada are working
on other test methods to
prevent this intervention, in the
meanwhile using a third-party
certification body such as ECC
proved to be an efficient method
to perform the test while
guaranteeing the minimum
required intervention of the
manufacturer.
References
[1 Grand View Research, “Air
Conditioning Systems Market
Size, Share & Trends Analysis
Report By Type (Unitary, Rooftop,
PTAC), By Technology (Inverter,
Non-inverter), By End-use, By
Region, And Segment Forecasts,
2021 - 2028,” 2021. Accessed:
Apr. 01, 2022.
[Online]. Available: https://
www.grandviewresearch.
com/industry-analysis/
air-conditioning-systemsindustry#:~:text=Inverter%20
segment%20dominated%20the%20
air,share%20of%2065.6%25 %20
in%202020.
[2] Ankur Sharma, “Room air
conditioners Focus shifting
to inverters,” Motilal Oswal,
Apr. 2017. https://www.
motilaloswal.com/site/rreports/
html/636288151341015916/index.
htm (accessed Apr. 01, 2022).
[3] S. Mavuri, “Testing inverter type air
conditioners for field performance,”
Ecolibrium, pp. 44–49, 2014,
[Online]. Available: www.gzlans.
com
[4] H. Hui, Y. Ding, and M. Zheng,
“Equivalent Modeling of Inverter
Air Conditioners for Providing
Frequency Regulation Service,”
IEEE Transactions on Industrial
Electronics, vol. 66, no. 2, pp.
1413–1423, Feb. 2019, doi: 10.1109/
TIE.2018.2831192.
[5] S. Mavuri, “Field Behaviour of
Inverter Air Conditioners Effect
on Seasonal Performance,” I
nternational Journal of Application
or I nnovation in Engineering & M
anagement (I JAI EM ), vol. 4, no. 8,
Aug. 2015, [Online]. Available: www.
ijaiem.org
[6] A. Almogbel, F. Alkasmoul, Z.
Aldawsari, J. Alsulami, and A.
Alsuwailem, “Comparison of energy
consumption between non-inverter
and inverter-type air conditioner in
Saudi Arabia,” Energy Transitions,
vol. 4, no. 2, pp. 191–197, Dec. 2020,
doi: 10.1007/s41825-020-00033-y.
[7] G. Du, S. Zhou, Y. Zhou, and X.
Liu, “ScienceDirect ScienceDirect
Design of Performance Testing
System for HVAC Based on
Enthalpy Difference Method,”
Procedia Engineering, vol. 205, pp.
2156–2163, 2017, doi: 10.1016/j.
proeng.2017.10.035.
[8 R. Carmichael, S. Widder, N.
Baker, and J. Dewitt, “Domestic
Air Conditioner Test Standards and
Harmonization,” Washington, Mar.
2020.
[9] “AC | Eurovent Certita
Certification.” https://www.
eurovent-certification.com/
en/third-party-certification/
certification-programmes/ac
(accessed Apr. 04, 2022).
[10]“Eurovent Certita Certification.”
https://www.eurovent-certification.
com/en/ (accessed Apr. 04, 2022).
[11]“Technologies | Daikin Reefer.”
https://www.ref.daikin.com/zestia/
technologies (accessed Apr. 01,
2022).
www.eurovent.me SEPTEMBER 2022 VOL. 07

NEWSLETTER
FEATURE STORY
The ROI on talent: Educating
both sides of the equation
On June 24, 2021, Eurovent Middle East hosted a live panel discussion addressing
challenges related to obtaining and retaining talent to meet the HVACR sector's
evolving requirements. Moderated by Nerissa Deoraj and Markus Lattner, the panel
members shared their experiences and insights on how investing in skills training for
the improvement of the industry can meet broader goals related to energy efficiency.
From global logistics' reliance
on secure cold chains across
various sectors to the growing
demand for clean and comfortable
indoor climates, the critical
role the HVACR sector plays in
society is irrefutable. However,
as the industry evolves, there is
a shortage of individuals capable
of bringing the necessary training
and skillsets to meet the sector's
requirement for human capital.
The noticeable skills gap can be
attributed to the lack of awareness
of job opportunities within the
industry. It is also aggravated by
a lack of understanding of the
sector's importance in so many
aspects of our everyday lives.
As Nodirjon Rasulov, Business
Development Manager, Camfil
Middle East, pointed out, "What
is invisible is indispensable,"
underscoring how the impact of
high indoor air quality on human
health and productivity can be so
easily overlooked. He says this
can serve as a barrier for the
youth to be excited to become
part of the industry. Naveen
Sivakumar, Head of Marketing and
Business Development for Turkey,
Middle East and Africa, Danfoss,
shared the same sentiment. "We
are behind the ceilings and on
the rooftops," he says. "So, the
exposure is missing in colleges.
It is an industry that is taken for
granted. We set the thermostat,
and that is it."
However, there are many initiatives
the industry can take to address the
challenge of not only drawing talent
but also retaining them. Sivakumar
said the only way for the industry to
be attractive is to cultivate a more
robust employment ecosystem
comprising proper legislation,
greater education, as well as a
richer and more diversified skill set
supported by competitive salaries.
It is vital to identify individual
challenges and effectively address
them to develop such an ecosystem.
The need for government
intervention and certification
When it comes to the public sector's
role, Sivakumar said government
intervention is particularly important
for developing legislation that can
audit the skill set of people doing
maintenance and repair work
on HVACR systems in buildings.
Criticising the level of knowledge in
the Middle East, Sivakumar points
out that many of the major hotel
operators still confuse refrigeration
and air conditioning by setting room
thermostats at 17 or 18 degrees C.
Markus Lattner, Managing Director,
Eurovent Middle East, adds that
the lack of adequately trained
technicians is not only leading to
inefficient operations, but it also
poses a threat to the safety and
wellbeing of people involved in
building operations especially with
the outdated systems prevalent in
many buildings.
Nodirjon Rasulov
Naveen Sivakumar
Underlining the gravity of the
situation, Lattner points to the tragic
incident earlier this year when the
compressor of an air conditioning
unit burst during routine
maintenance work, resulting in the
death of one worker and severe
injury of two others. There must be
frameworks in place to avoid such
risks, he added.
Weighing in as a representative
of the industry and as an Emirati,
Roudha Bin Baher, Commissioning
Engineer, Petrofac, highlighted
opportunities for the private sector
to support government through
their expertise in this regard,
underlining the need for greater
collaboration. "Even the people that
are preparing most curriculums
for the government need extra
knowledge and experience in the
industry," she said, "That's why I
encourage the private sector to get
involved."
Bin Baher's observation stems
from her own experience, as she
credits private companies for her
introduction and exposure to the
refrigeration and air conditioning
sector. "These companies fill the
gap between education and the real
world," she said. "I can really see
the benefit of getting the training
from the company itself, to teach
us what's happening in the real
markets." This sort of private sector
involvement, she adds, can help
overcome possible shortcomings
from educational institutions.
The benefit from the expertise that
private companies bring to the
table is also obvious to Rasulov.
"There is a very big gap between
universities and the industry," he
said. "When it comes to a topic like
filtration, for example, it is not even
extensively covered in the HVACR
part of engineering. They spend only
10-15 minutes talking about the
basics. However, when we go and
approach schools to offer classes on
a voluntary basis, we find that they
are very welcoming."
A diversified workforce and skillset
Sivakumar believes that a
framework for formal technical
education should be directed to
the youth and should also be made
available to existing technicians.
"I'm talking about the simple
bluecollar air conditioning
technicians that are hungry for
knowledge," he said. Sivakumar
pointed out how such technicians,
typically expatriates, are employed
with a low salary and have little
opportunity to enhance their
position. Their experience assisting
in projects has given them an
intuitive understanding of how
HVACR components work. "If you
introduce theory to them, you could
be getting an amazing technician,"
he said. "There is enough
motivation, but, unfortunately,
that kind of formal education isn't
happening here."
Rasulov added that companies
need not look far to see the benefits
that can be unlocked by proper
training mechanisms, highlighting
the untapped opportunities within
companies’ existing workforce. "It
always depends on the company
how they want to nurture a
candidate," he said, "but if we give
proper and continuous training
even after employees join, it will
be not only for the benefit of the
person but also for the benefit of
the company."
Expanding the search with
evolving technologies
There is also a need to cast a
wider net when assessing potential
candidates for HVACR positions.
Bin Baher said that candidates
with a background in chemical and
mechanical engineering would
be ideal for HVACR positions.
Purwanti Alissa Paillé, Founder
& CEO, careersbay.com, an
HVACR recruitment company,
confirms that candidates with
diploma showcasing additional
specialisations on relevant topics
are favoured by companies.
Rasulov added that while the
technical background is essential,
there are plenty of opportunities for
people from other fields, given the
broad nature of available positions.
"In our company, we look at not
only the intellectual capabilities
of the person but the emotional
capabilities also," he said. "I would
suggest to anyone who is looking
into HVACR positions to focus on
what different perspectives they
can share and to think out of the
box."
Markus Lattner
Roudha Bin Baher
Sivakumar said that openness
to specialists from different
backgrounds is so crucial,
considering HVACR systems
have also evolved. "Mechanical
engineering was the classical
choice for specialists in the
sector," he said, "but we need
to remember that the industry
has moved on from simple
air conditioning systems to
complicated Internet-of-Things
and BMS systems - all of which
require an appreciation for
electronics. So, let us not stick
to one branch of knowledge.
The industry has moved on, the
systems have evolved, and they are
now not only talking to each other
but to other systems as well. "
Opening the doors for women in
the industry
The need for diversification also
touches on opportunities for
women in the sector. Paillé said
that from her experience, there
had been a great demand for
women among HVACR
www.eurovent.me SEPTEMBER 2022 VOL. 07

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FEATURE STORY
Purwanti Alissa Paillé
Nerissa Deoraj
companies, especially for
management positions. Rasulov
observed the same trend, adding,
"There are also frameworks in place
to encourage a positive move in this
direction, through frameworks
such as GEEIS (Gender Equality
European & International
Standard), awarded to company's
showing the willingness to open
the doors for women."
Sivakumar added that many
companies are following suit and
that Danfoss has the ambition
to have 30% of their leadership
positions held by women by
2025. "This is a commitment that
we have taken all those years,
and we are pushing the agenda
very clear," he said. " Even for
me, personally speaking, I lead
a team of six strong females
in the marketing and business
development team, three of which
are engineers, and I know their
energy and what they can bring to
the table."
Nerissa Deoraj,Senior Public Affairs
Manager, Systemair, added that
positive moment is evident but
there is room for growth.
"The number of women
in the industry has increased,"
she said, "And they bring a lot of
skills and competence. Women
should definitely be considered
more when it comes to positions
requiring higher technical skill
sets because they actually are
very capable, and competent."
Sivakumar agreed, also
highlighting how there is scope
for women's expertise and skills
behind the scenes as well, and
that it is up to the industry to
improve the image of many roles
within the sector. "The technician
is not a guy in overalls, covered
with oil and grease and with the
hard hat," he said. "These days,
HVACR technicians work with a
computer or a mobile phone trying
to troubleshoot the problem through
the internet - so that image change
is also needed."
What does it take to get them to
stay?
While equipping individuals
with the latest skillsets is
important, keeping them will
only be possible if they are given
proper compensation for their
work. Currently, this is more
the exception rather than the
rule. Rasulov shared that while
white-collar technicians have a
competitive salary, there is a big
gap in the salary of blue-collar
technicians. "What they are
getting is unfair presently," he
said.
Sivakumar calls the salary
discrepancy "a clear disgrace",
especially when companies
consider candidates' nationality,
opting for people from
developing countries and making
a case for low compensation
because of the conversion rate.
"It's not fair," he said, adding
that the loser, at the end of the
day, is the industry. "If you are
trying to hire a designer with five
years of experience at AED 6.000,
you are not going to get the right
people."
Paille said salary is a key
determining factor for people's
decision to stay in the industry,
adding that while the amount
varies among different
companies.She encourages
companies to increase
their offer to attract better
candidates and cultivate loyalty
between the parties. Sivakumar
shared that, unfortunately,
salary has often been the cause
of companies losing out on
great talent. He believes proper
legislation that places value
on skilled technicians would
contribute to an ecosystem
where buyers are given a
chance to pay more to benefit
from excellent service.
Why education is money
Despite the complex nature of
these issues, there is an urgent
need to strengthen the human
resource ecosystem to meet a
growing sector's human capital
requirements and
accommodate the expected
wave of retrofits given
the region's ageing built
environment. "Most of the air
conditioning systems in the
Middle East are getting old,
and we have many outdated
systems all over the Gulf
countries," he said. "This
brings into the picture potential
opportunities for retrofit.
Remember: a retrofit is not only
to make a building safer it's also
about making it more economical
and more viable."
Education, Sivakumar said,
must also be directed to the
government to highlight the
benefit of eliminating energy
guzzlers, given the more efficient
technologies available in the
market. "It's about educating both
sides of the equation," he said,
"Government stakeholders
need to understand the new
technologies coming up and how it
can be economical." Providing an
example, Sivakumar points to how
40% of a supermarket's energy
bill comes from refrigeration.
"Globally, 1% of the global
energy consumption comes from
supermarkets, so there is a lot of
money to be saved. That's how I
see it: Education is money. Yes,
it's about developing a person, but
it's also bringing money back to
the economy."
Sivakumar said that this crucial
topic underlines the importance
of organisations such as Eurovent
Middle East, which operates at
the juncture among the different
stakeholders that need to come
together. "If the industry has to
work together, they need to have a
neutral platform, and this is
where I believe Eurovent is adding
great value as well," he said.
Deoraj confirmed that work is
underway for Eurovent Middle
East's Leadership Academy,
which will provide engineers and
MEP consultants with a holistic
overview of technologies that
are available in the market.
Deoraj said that the training
sessions would be facilitated by
members offering real-world
technical expertise to address
problems and misperceptions in
the market, especially when it
comes to technical knowledge and
specifications.
In addition to educating
stakeholders, Deoraj said the
Academy aims to empower
consultants to shift their focus
from typical fixed design methods
in projects. "Symptoms of these
problems include issues related
to copy-pasting of specifications,
without really thinking about
what the technology is or having
a clear understanding of what
they are asking for," she said.
"Our Academy is just one of the
projects we are working on to try
and change these perceptions and
educate the market. This is one of
our biggest targets for this year,
and we hope that to have it up and
running by early 2023."
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PHOTO FEATURE
Eurovent Middle East through the years...
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ABOUT US
Eurovent Middle East is the region's only industry association
representing leading manufacturers of Indoor Climate (HVAC),
Process Cooling, Food Cold Chain, Industrial Ventilation, and
Building Automation Technologies, as well as sector associations and
industry initiatives active in these fields. By thinking ‘Beyond HVACR',
contributing manufacturers fulfil the highest requirements in terms of
product quality and sustainability.
CONNECT WITH US
CONTACT OUR TEAM
Dubai World Trade Centre
Office 07, Dubai Association Centre, 2nd
Floor, The Offices 2 at One Central
P.O. Box 9292 Dubai
United Arab Emirates
Phone (int.): +43 660 4012050
Phone (UAE): +971 58 598 9931
Email: office@eurovent.me
Web: www.eurovent.me
www.eurovent.me