• Editor’s Notebook: Products/ Showcase Award

    Dec. 4, 2012
    COMFORTECH PRODUCT SHOWCASE AWARD At HVAC Comfortech 2012, 13 products were recognized as Product Showcase Award winners. Judges took into consideration the ease with which HVAC contractors can apply the technology, and the technical value of the ...

    COMFORTECH PRODUCT SHOWCASE AWARD

    At HVAC Comfortech 2012, 13 products were recognized as Product Showcase Award winners. Judges took into consideration the ease with which HVAC contractors can apply the technology, and the technical value of the product or service to the HVAC industry. We’ll feature these products each month in upcoming issues of Contracting Business.com. This month, we’re featuring ClimateMater’s Tranquility 30 heat pump, the winner in the Forced-Air Heating category. For additional information on any of the products listed here, circle the appropriate number(s) on the reader service card at the back of this issue or visit www.contractingbusiness.com/freeinfo.html.

    ClimateMaster Releases the Tranquility 30 Digital Series

    The Tranquility 30 Digital (TE) joins the Tranquility 22 Digital (TZ) as a geothermal heat pump product lines that integrates digital communicating controls, two-stage capacity, variable-speed fan and variable-flow geothermal source functions within a single package.

    The heat pump uses iGate and vFlow technology. iGate technology is the next generation in intelligent control by using two-way communication to provide a gateway into the system. The iGate control system allows end-users and contractors to monitor the performance of the unit, custom tailor its operation, and diagnose any issues, right from the thermostat.

    The iGate communications hub is the new DXM2 intelligent controller, which analyzes the status of sensors and smart components (which are also two-way communicating) to determine how best to operate the system for optimal comfort, efficiency and long-term reliability. All of this information is passed to the iGate thermostat (or dealer diagnostic tool), where it can be displayed in plain English. And since communication is both ways, the iGate thermostat can also be used to configure and tailor the system without even touching the unit.

    www.climatemaster.com

    Regular Products: Thybar Corporation Offers Top-Quality Metal Building Curbs

    Thybar Corporation introduces a new line of laser cut, all welded construction, insulated metal building curbs. Advanced laser technology offers the tightest tolerances and allows for a superior weld. Each curb is custom designed to accommodate any rooftop equipment and to conform to any roof pitch. The curbs are fabricated using #14 and #18 Ga. AZ-55 Galvalume material with all welded construction, built-in diverter and integral conforming notches for complete compatibility with Galvalume roof panels and a water-tight seal. Removable duct channels and insulated pans to accommodate duct locations are included.

    Custom fabrication assures proper alignment to the roof slope and permits reinforcement as required to support any weight rooftop unit. Standard features include: built-in rib configuration, integral water deflecting cricket, 3-in. attachment flanges, 10-in. minimum height, and factory installed rigid insulation (1-1/2-in. thick, 3-lb density) are included. thybar.com

    M&G DuraVent Gets US Boiler Approval

    M&G DuraVent announces that it has received approval for PolyPro Venting Systems. US Boiler Co. has now approved PolyPro single-wall, concentric, and flex for their Burnham Alpine models 080-500.

    PolyPro is an engineered system specifically designed for venting heating appliances. Gasketed joints require no primers or adhesives and easily assemble in seconds with just a splash of water. Terminations are designed for superior performance in poor environmental conditions. PolyPro is tested and listed to the ULC S636 standard in Canada and rated as a Class IIA, IIB, and IIC vent system. PolyPro offers the only double-wall polypropylene flex in the U.S., making it durable for relining masonry chimneys, factory-built chimneys, and useful for relining B-vent pipe when retrofitting it to use as a chase. PolyPro has been successfully venting appliances in Europe for over 15 years.

    duravent.com

    Tappan Introduces the ES6BF 16 Seer Air Conditioner

    This single-stage air conditioner offers all-aluminum micro-channel coils. These coils are tough on corrosion and are lighter in weight than traditional coils. The Tappan ES6BF also contains a Copeland Scroll compressor and is available in 2, 2.5 and 3 tons.

    The system may qualify for local rebates and incentives that can help homeowners save more money. tappan.net

    Taco Offers New Differential Pressure Sensors

    Taco has added a new differential pressure sensor to their extensive line of hydronic system components. The sensor relays system performance information to a VFD or to a building management system.

    The Taco DPS629 monitors differential pressures of air and compatible gasses and liquids. The design uses dual sensors that convert pressure changes into a standard 4-20 mA output signal for two-wire circuits. Its small size and few moving parts make for exceptional response time and reliability. Terminal block, zero, and span adjustments are easily accessed under the top cover. Designed to meet NEMA 4x (IP66) construction, the unit is applicable for flow elements, heat exchangers, filters, pumps and coils.

    taco-hvac.com

    New Alarm Helps Prevent Air Conditioner Theft

    The ACAL-SHARK is the first alarm of its kind that doesn’t require an internal control panel. According to company sources, this allows for the easy installation.

    The ACAL-SHARK is a stand-alone siren that runs off 12v DC, and has an optional battery backup. It also contains a tamper switch that will activate if the siren is pulled from the wall or the cover is removed. There are four wires coming out of the siren that are used for installation. Two wires connect to the included 110v AC to 12v DC converter, and the other two connect to the sensors on the unit.

    If any of the wires are tampered with or cut, the power is disconnected, and if pressure falls below 5 psi the siren will sound. The system also features a refrigerant monitor, as an add-on feature. Other accessories include tilt sensors and the ability to connect the unit to an existing central alarm system.

    airconditioneralarms.com

    Venstar ColorTouch Commercial Thermostat Enables Remote Access

    Venstar announces the Skyport wi-fi Key for the ColorTouch commercial thermostat. The Skyport wi-fi key connects to Skyport Cloud Services enabling HVAC contractors and installers to remotely control, monitor and troubleshoot their clients’ ColorTouch commercial thermostats. Compatible with iPhone, iTouch, iPad, Android, Mac and PC devices, the mobile app is free. The ColorTouch and Skyport wi-fi key can be purchased together or separately. The Skyport wi-fi key can also be purchased separately and used with the original ColorTouch thermostat.

    The new ColorTouch commercial mobile application allows HVAC contractors to remotely monitor and control up to 100 locations over the Internet using Skyport Cloud Services. Multiple people can control thermostats at the same location(s) individually from their mobile devices. venstar.com

    Danfoss Introduces the 435 Series Actuator for the AB-QM Pressure Independent Control Valves

    Danfoss releases its new generation of 435 series actuators, which will replace the prior AME 15QM series of actuator for the Danfoss AB-QM pressure independent control valve (PICV).

    The AME 435QM and AMV 435 are the first of a new design of actuators, which offer improved operation with lower power consumption. This new family of actuators requires no additional tools when it’s installed to the AB-QM valve bodies. The click-on mounting mechanism of the actuator reduces actuator installation time.

    Standard features for these new actuators include two selectable operation speeds, external LED for visual confirmation of actuator operation, end travel LED signaling and easy calibration via an external reset button. The 435 series of actuators are smaller and lighter than our previous model with 24 volt AC or DC power capabilities. ABQMvalves.com