HVAC trends in vogue!

Here are the popular trends in HVAC design in vogue:

Automation in HVAC: “Building automation systems are picking up as a concept among developers of commercial real estate as well as corporations creating structures for industrial use,” says Hemant Bhange, Managing Director, Zamil Air Conditioners India. “Some developers don’t ask for automation to be installed at the initial stage; they just provide for BMS compatibility in all the equipment they install, to suit the needs of end occupants who are expected to deploy an automation solution of their choice. As HVAC control is a major function of the BMS, some developers insist that the HVAC provider offer a holistic building automation solution that covers other facilities such as water treatment plant, lighting, access control, etc. This has necessitated that HVAC vendors demonstrate knowledge beyond their domain.”

Refrigerants: “As CFC/ HCFC refrigerants are globally banned by the Montreal Protocol, HCFCs like R22 are being phased out of production in India by 2030,” says Bhange.

“Refrigerants such as R410A and R134A are in vogue in India for their zero ozone depletion properties, but they still contribute to global warming. R32 is being introduced as a makeshift arrangement for its zero ozone depletion properties and lower global warming potential. We may see the use of R290 and R600A refrigerants pick up for their zero ozone depletion properties and for being the lowest potential contributors to global warming.”

Connected air-conditioners: “We expect Internet of Things-enabled air-conditioners to gain prominence in future because they provide real-time updates about the working status of the machine, facilitating timely and remote maintenance, and helping to track the electricity consumption pattern,” says Gaurav Kumar, Operations Head, MG Cooling Solutions.

- CHARU BAHRI