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New energy saving iSpeed inverters

March 2010

The Parker RACE Division of Parker Hannifin, the global leader in motion and control technologies, has appointed Thermofrost Cryo as a Parker Systems Integrator in the refrigeration sector for its new range of iSpeed intelligent drive systems. This appointment forms part of Parker's ongoing programme to work with specialised partners in refrigeration and air conditioning; in particular, to launch advanced technologies that help customers boost productivity and profitability through energy saving and improvements in the efficiency of refrigeration systems.

Mike Carman of Parker RACE, explains that, "Our latest technology, such as the iSpeed intelligent drive, can cut energy costs by up 40% when used, for example, in refrigeration systems with single compressor units, or up to 25% when used with multi-stage compressor racks. To ensure that these levels of savings are achieved consistently it is essential that each refrigeration system is designed and configured correctly. This requires specialised knowledge of refrigeration electronics, controllers, networks and of course compressors, and was an important reason for selecting Thermofrost Cryo as a Parker Systems Integrator."

Philip Sloper, Managing Director of Thermofrost Cryo, adds, "Although we have supplied components from Parker for many years this new agreement gives us access to the unique iSpeed technology and, just as importantly, allows us to strengthen our already extensive technical and engineering skills base by working with Parker's dedicated product and applications teams. The iSpeed has been specifically developed for the RAC industry, having undergone extensive trials with all the leading brands of compressor to ensure optimum performance and compatibility, whilst protecting the compressor from harm. As specialists in both RAC electronics and compressors, we are delighted to be able to use our expertise to support this product."

Parker's intelligent iSpeed variable speed drives have been developed to control the operating conditions of compressors and condensing fans, enabling refrigeration system output to be matched precisely to variations in demand. The drive technology is extremely accurate, with fast response times, providing instantaneous and smooth adjustments to compressor speeds.

The precision control provided by the iSpeed technology also enables the operational envelope of each compressor to be expanded, providing superior low and high speed performance, while always remaining within safe compressor operating limits. Similarly, it improves the efficiency of evaporators, minimising the build-up of ice which, in turn, reduces the frequency of defrost cycles.

As a result, iSpeed can play an important role in cutting overall energy consumption; for example, each one degree increase in evaporator temperature reduces energy losses by 4%. The technology also ensures smooth control of compressor and condenser fan speeds, to minimise mechanical stress, enhance long term reliability and reduce maintenance costs, and is an approved system for grants through the UK Enhanced Capital Allowance scheme for carbon reducing technologies.

Data on iSpeed inverters is available in our downloads section.

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