Danfoss has added 8.5 ton and 11 ton variable-speed compressors with intermediate discharge valves (IDV) to its VZH range, giving commercial cooling manufacturers a choice of variable-speed scrolls with qualified drives.
The inverter scrolls are ideal for data center close controls and rooftop units, enabling energy-efficient cooling. These compressors are also a fit for rooftop units, helping OEMs meet seasonal and part-load efficiency standards, like the U.S. Department of Energy’s (DOE) energy conservation regulations beginning in 2023. Likewise, for chillers, the Danfoss VZH range will enable OEMs develop a competitive range of systems capable of exceeding the Ecodesign Lot 21 targets coming into effect in 2021.
Variable-speed with IDVs: The Key to SEER, IPLV, and IEER
Worldwide, energy-efficiency standards are increasingly based on seasonal efficiency measures like the Seasonal Energy Efficiency Ratio (SEER), Integrated Energy Efficiency Ratio (IEER), and Integrated Part Load Value (IPLV). These standards are designed to better reflect actual load profiles.
Cooling manufacturers are therefore under pressure to improve part-load efficiency in order to satisfy DOE regulations and continue to sell units in major world markets. With their ability to continuously modulate capacity, variable-speed compressors are a key part of meeting this challenge.
Danfoss VZH scrolls go even further. They feature intermediate discharge valves (IDVs), which prevent over-compression losses that compromise efficiency in standard scroll technology under part-load conditions. The result is an improvement in integrated efficiency scores. Efficiency is further improved with permanent magnet motors that help reduce power consumption under all operating conditions.
Tailor-made for Rooftop Units and IT Close Controls
Energy efficiency is important in data center cooling applications. With round-the-clock cooling demand, each incremental reduction in power consumption has an impact on energy bills, giving IDVs an advantage in making data centers more sustainable as IDVs deliver higher system efficiency for the same cooling capacity, especially at high evaporating temperatures (low pressure ratios) that are typical of data centers.
But servers also need precise conditions to function reliably, and variable-speed technology gives the ability to achieve a 0.54 F (0.3 C) temperature window, without sacrificing power usage effectiveness (PUE).
Additionally, the VZH’s extended operating map and ability to work in a range of conditions, makes it an option for IT close control systems, as well as rooftop units in markets where seasonal efficiency is a priority.
Prequalified Packages Accelerate Time to Market
Danfoss is able to supply compressors and drives as a matched, prequalified and certified package. This ability accelerates the development process, allowing OEMs to bring units to market more quickly.
A Roadmap to Lower GWP
Currently, VZH compressors are approved for use with R-410A, a refrigerant with a Global Warming Potential (GWP) of less than 2500. Danfoss’ commitment to lower-GWP alternatives—including its 3000-m2 testing facility for flammable refrigerants—means it has spelled out a roadmap for a managed transition before refrigerant phase-downs commence in earnest.