The VRF market is the most competitive and technically advanced sector of the air conditioning industry. With its latest launch, SANYO claims to have become the new class leader in VRF – setting a new benchmark for performance, efficiency and comfort
With the launch of its latest generation Series 6 ECOi VRF system, SANYO Air Conditioners has become the first manufacturer in the world to offer a VRF system with a built-in option for standard or ultra-high efficiency performance.
Air conditioning manufacturers traditionally offer separate ranges to cater for standard performance and top-end high efficiency requirements.
SANYO’s pioneering Series 6 VRF, officially launched in the UK in July, embodies both and can operate in either standard or high-COP mode, to suit user requirements – providing a unique choice for clients.
Standard mode offers the highest capacity while still delivering excellent efficiency, while hi-COP mode delivers exceptional efficiency and low running costs with a slight reduction in capacity.
“End users now have a real choice,” says Bob Cowlard, SANYO’s sales and marketing general manager for Europe. “They can maximise cooling and heating output, while still benefiting from very good efficiency, or opt for ultra-efficient, low-cost running by sacrificing a small amount of capacity.”
He added: “This combination technology, embodied in a single air conditioning system, is a real step forward in the market. Coupled with its class leading performance, ease of installation and outstanding features, the new Series 6 puts SANYO in the lead in this key area of air conditioning technology.”
The new system has significantly extended pipe runs, increased from 300m up to a maximum of 1000m, enabling the Series 6 to be used in larger, taller and deeper buildings. It permits 64 indoor units to be connected to a maximum of 200% indexed indoor unit load, enabling the system to be used effectively on highly diversified building loads.
Operating range has also been extended, enabling the Series 6 to provide heating at ambients as low as -25 deg C, overcoming even the worst winter conditions likely to be encountered in the UK.
The DC-inverter controlled system features a new high external static pressure fan, made possible by an improved fan blade, motor and casing design – delivering up to 80Pa. This allows the outdoor unit to be installed inside plant rooms on any floor of a building – again extending the application range for the Series 6.
On the controls side, the Series 6 is equipped with a sophisticated system to ensure extended compressor life. Total run-time of compressors is monitored by a built-in microcomputer, which ensures that operation times of all compressors within the same refrigerant circuit are balanced.
Compressors with histories showing shorter run times are selected first, ensuring equal wear and tear across all units and extended working life for the system.
The Series 6 is available in units with capacities from 8 to 20 hp, with the hi-COP combined option range available from 10 to 16hp. There is an option to connect three outdoor units together to form one system of up to 60hp. It is also suitable for use with SANYO’s ground-breaking R22 Renewal technology.
Initially launched as a two-pipe heat pump system, a three-way heat recovery version will follow later this year.
Bob Cowlard says: “In terms of efficiency, performance and features, the Series 6 becomes the new best in class among VRF air conditioners. It gives SANYO a commanding edge in a highly competitive sector of the market.
He added: “People are looking for ever more efficient systems that are less expensive to run and better for the environment. The Series 6 delivers this – and more.”
For more details, call 0845 612 6364.