27 July 2022
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Toshiba has unveiled SHRM Advance, the latest generation of its award-winning VRF air conditioning system, which operates on the lower GWP refrigerant R32.
The use of R32 and a reduced refrigerant charge is said to enable SHRM Advance to deliver a significant reduction of up 80%* in equivalent carbon emissions when compared to a similarly sized R410A system.
It features a more compact chassis, lower noise levels, the ability to choose between three-pipe heat recovery and two-pipe heat pump operation, together with a range of safety features including an integrated leak detection and shut-off valve system.
The all-new system is available in 8-24HP capacity units and is designed to enable office buildings, large shops and restaurants, healthcare facilities, and educational establishments to achieve class-leading sustainability credentials, while also reducing running costs.
"With the race to achieve net zero, building owners and operators are under increasing pressure to minimise their carbon footprint," said David McSherry, head of Toshiba DX, residential and light commercial, TCUK. "In addition to the significant sustainability benefits, as the price of R410A – the refrigerant used in VRF systems to date – rises and availability falls, R32 offers a very attractive optimum alternative, with significantly lower GWP, reduced costs and improved energy efficiency. SHRM Advance represents a win-win for customers and the environment."
SHRM Advance incorporates technical innovations that help enhance comfort performance and energy efficiency. These include the ability to select either three-pipe or two-pipe operation, a new twin-rotary compressor with liquid injection, split heat exchanger, sub-cooling plate heat exchanger, a new high performance fan motor, and a unique thermodynamic circuit, all contributing to class-leading efficiency of SEER up to 8.9 and SCOP up to 4.67.
For system designers, a new generation of flow selectors with up to 12 ports gives enhanced flexibility and optimises the ability of SHRM Advance to deliver simultaneous cooling and heating. This is controlled automatically, enabling seamless energy transfers between areas of the building requiring heating and cooling.
An advanced heat recovery function provides heat to the indoor unit with minimal input from the condensing unit, further improving energy efficiency and helping to minimise carbon footprint. If required, SHRM Advance can also be customised to operate as a two-pipe heat pump system.
For installers, the fully packaged SHRM Advance provides flexibility to meet the needs of any commercial building project. A new compact chassis height of just 1.69m helps integration on site, while it is possible to connect up to 69 indoor units per system. A full range of 13 different types of indoor unit are available, from 0.3 to 10HP capacity.
As well as conventional indoor units, SHRM Advance is available with a fresh air ventilation duct and a medium temperature water module. Supported by a 70-200% diversity ratio, full system customisation is possible to overcome site-specific project constraints.
For applications requiring enhanced levels of indoor air quality, Toshiba's one-way and four-way cassettes offer plasma/ionizer air purification, while the high-wall unit has an ultra-pure filter.
Safe operation is a key design priority and is ensured by an advanced integrated leak detection and shut-off valve system. To ensure regulatory compliance at the design stage, equipment selection software takes account of mandatory requirements, based on floor area and refrigerant quantity. For each proposed project design, it gives installers and consultants full guidance to ensure regulatory compliance and ensure total peace-of-mind.
Control is enhanced by Toshiba's TU2C-LINK communication system, giving improved speed and connectivity. A full line-up of wired and central remote controllers is available, offering full compatibility with the new R-32 safety devices. Monitoring solutions include the Wave Tool Advance (available from App store and Google Play) and Link Adaptor, enabling quick and easy servicing.
"The world is heading toward a decarbonized future. SHRM Advance enables commercial building owners, consultants and installers to contribute to the decarbonisation effort,” added David McSherry. “For both new-build and replacement projects, the system is a major step toward net zero, and it is available now."
*Precise percentage will depend on the system design for each installation.
