2011 POY Finalists: HVAC
Finalists in HVAC in Plant Engineering’s 2011 Product of the Year competition
Edited by Amanda McLeman, Plant Engineering
Portable fan 
The Yellow Jacket is a portable fan that takes abuse and stays in use. This fan is designed for incredible flexibility and quiet operation, as well as durability. Features include: heavy-gauge steel carriage engineered to withstand harsh environments; Powerfoil-inspired blades for maximum efficiency and airflow coverage; acoustically designed fan, motor, and carriage for quiet operation; oversized wheels and ergonomic handle for superior maneuverability; multiple speeds and an easily operated locking position mechanism; high-efficiency design to cut energy use by over 50%; and optional ceiling, wall, or multiple floor mounts.
Pocket filter 
Hi-Flo ES is a high-efficiency ASHRAE-grade pocket filter that uses up to 50% less HVAC energy and offers up to 30% longer service. This pocket filter prevents pocket-to-pocket contact throughout the filter’s depth, ensuring uniform airflow and full use of the media. An exclusive front-to-back pocket taper makes the filter Hi-Flo ES resistant to tearing and other damage during installation. The result is a long and productive service life as well as a low lifecycle cost. The pocket filter is effective against a broad range of contaminants, including those that contribute to sick building syndrome.
Outdoor air system 
The CITY MULTI VRF Dedicated Outdoor Air System is designed to supply outdoor ventilation air to a building independent of the HVAC air distribution or conditioning system. The DOAS preconditions air for introduction into downstream HVAC units, lessening the load on HVAC systems. The DOAS connects to a VRF outdoor unit with INVERTER-driven technology to provide energy-efficient outside air by utilizing waste heat from cooling cycles to provide reheat capability without needing an additional or supplemental energy source. The DOAS also reduces utility costs when used in conjunction with HVAC systems.
Wireless controller 
With RedLINK technology, this wall-mounted wireless remote controller communicates through radio frequency, meaning that the wireless controller can be placed in a different room than the indoor units and that no wires need to be run through the walls. The Portable Central Controller allows users the freedom of climate control of up to 16 zones and adjustable fan speed vane positioning from anywhere in the facility. The wall-mounted controller features a traditional wall-mounted thermostat appearance and an easy-to-read backlit display with intuitive operational functions.
Control station 
The touchscreen Fan-Commander control station controls the operation of up to 18 High Volume/Low Speed Revolution Fan or Revolution SP Fan models. With the Fan-Commander, users can optimize the year-round performance of strategically located Revolution HVLS fans throughout a single facility, maximizing the energy savings and comfort. It also eliminates the need to visit multiple fan locations to make adjustments, contributing to operational efficiency. The Fan-Commander can be networked with building control systems so users can coordinate the operation of the fans with other building functions.
- Related News:
Product Exclusive: Powerfoil X2.0 - 01.05.2012 14:45
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2012 Salary Survey
In a year when manufacturing continued to lead the economic rebound, it makes sense that plant manager bonuses rebounded. Plant Engineering’s annual Salary Survey shows both wages and bonuses rose in 2012 after a retreat the year before.
Average salary across all job titles for plant floor management rose 3.5% to $95,446, and bonus compensation jumped to $15,162, a 4.2% increase from the 2010 level and double the 2011 total, which showed a sharp drop in bonus.