• Tech Update

    March 1, 2012
    Commercial and Residential Air Distribution: Grilles, Registers, Louvers, Air Handlers, Fans, Fan Systems, Dampers, Ventilation Products.

    American Standard
    The American Standard Platinum XV air handler is constructed more like a refrigerator than a typical air handler, with insulation fully enclosed between double-walls of the innovative Air-Tite II cabinet, preventing condensation. In addition to eliminating sweating, the cabinet eliminates the loose fibers from fiberglass insulation that could enter the airstream.
    americanstandardair.com
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    Dynasonics
    Dynasonics announces the development of its acoustics information model (AIM) software, which is a free noise prediction tool. AIM is designed to model the amount of noise that reaches individual spaces within a building project through the mechanical systems.

    The new Dynasonics software uses sound data projected through HVAC system components, noise control accessories, and architectural elements to predict background noise levels. dynasonics-acoustics.com
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    Field Controls
    Field Controls has unveiled the newest addition to the Healthy Home System, its IAQ flagship. Four new products have been added to the fresh air product line including three heat recovery ventilators (HRVs) and one energy recovery ventilator (ERV).

    The field HRV/ERV line ensures fresh air changes up to eight times a day. Both the HRV, recommended for cooler climates, and the ERV, recommended for hot and humid climates, can be integrated into the ductwork of the forced air system.
    fieldcontrols.com
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    Greenheck
    Greenheck’s new remote balancing dampers are ideal for applications where tight spaces make it difficult to access and manually adjust the damper and balance airflow. Instead of using a traditional mechanical cable, which is prone to binding, Greenheck remote balancing dampers use a standard RJ11 cable that’s run to a phone jack-style plug. Greenheck’s EZ Balance smart controller can then be plugged into the jack to regulate the damper’s blade position and balance the system.
    greenheck.com
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    MacroAir
    MacroAir introduces the AirStar line. The new fan model incorporates its HVLS technology into a feasible option for small areas — effective for light commercial, restaurant, club house and professional office applications.

    MacroAir offers a 12-year warranty on all products and all MacroAir fans are made in the U.S.
    macro-air.com
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    NuTone
    NuTone heating and cooling is combating formicary corrosion with the brand’s new B6 air handlers. The new line includes two types of evaporator coils to reduce — or eliminate — the number one cause of coil leaks.

    NuTone B6 air handlers include 13- and 14-SEER Anteater MC micro-channel models. These evaporator coils are constructed of aluminum extruded tubes that are brazed to enhanced aluminum fins.
    nutonehvac.com
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    Rheem
    Available in 7.5-, 10-, 15- and 20-ton sizes, the Rheem RHGL series of commercial air handlers have several features that make the units easy to install and service, sources say.

    This air handler features removable panels on the top and sides of the unit. These removable panels help contractors quickly access the unit’s motors, blowers, sheaves and filters for faster and more accurate service.

    Additional features include:

    • Inherently protected motors are mounted inside of an insulated cabinet in order to reduce motor noise to ensure quieter operation
    • A galvanized steel drain pan is designed to trap condensate in either vertical or horizontal installations.

    On the residential side, the newly redesigned Rheem Hydronic air handler now incorporates a high-efficiency permanent magnet motor into the unit, which helps upgrade the electrical efficiency of the air handler. Rheem is also offering the hydronic air handler in a sleek, warm-gray color called Rheem Granite Gray. The unit is AHRI-certified and can meet ENERGY STAR® qualifications when paired with certain Rheem high efficiency air conditioners and heat pumps to create a home comfort system.

    Additional features include:

    • A low profile, 34-in. design
    • An insulated blower compartment
    • An integrated control board with diagnostics that manage all operational functions of the unit; the control board also provides hook-ups for a humidifier and an electronic air cleaner.
      rheem.com
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    Ruskin
    Ruskin Rooftop Systems (RRS) provides a supply duct through the return air transition, allowing even airflow on all four sides of the diffuser. Less pressure inside the diffuser box means lower static. The diffuser box is made of aluminum with a double deflection blade design and is completely sealed and insulated. The built-in supply duct and factory-installed turning vanes are exclusive features for RRS concentric diffusers.
    rooftopsystems.com
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    Trane
    The Hyperion air handler is constructed with insulation between the double walls of the uniquely designed cabinet. The double-walled cabinet eliminates the need for exposed insulation and helps prevent energy loss with the use of airtight plugs instead of conventional knockouts. This reduces the unit’s carbon footprint and provides a cleaner environment, sources say.

    ComfortLink™ II communicating technology connects key components so the system automatically charges, configures and calibrates for optimal performance through the lifetime of the product.
    trane.com
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    ZoneFirst
    ZoneFirst® introduces the motorized take-off zone damper, model RT. The new RT dampers can be used to provide zone control without running a separate trunk duct for additional zones. The RT damper combines the function of a round duct take-off collar and a motorized damper, into one unit, reducing space and cost. Prior to the RT damper the duct needing to be zoned used a take-off collar and a round zone damper attached to the collar. The length for both could be as much as 12-in.

    The RT damper reduces that length almost in half. The RT has a wide flange and adhesive back foam seal to provide a tight seal and eliminate air leakage. This allows the RT damper to be used on both metal and duct board plenums. It also allows each outlet to be zoned, if necessary.
    zonefirst.com
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