New intelligent drives from Parker Hannifin cut refrigeration costs by 40%

Called iSpeed, the new drives are designed specifically to control the operating speeds of compressors, fans and pumps, matching system output precisely to variations in demand, giving optimum energy efficiency with low maintenance and long term reliability. In addition, the ability to ensure, for example, accurate control of refrigeration systems, with precise and smooth adjustments in compressor speed to match operating load demands, helps to minimise the problems caused by fluctuations in pressure and temperature; in the example of food refrigeration, this preserves product integrity and improves shelf life by reducing dehydration and shrinkage.

Similarly, by intelligently controlling the cycle rates of compressors, with a smooth increase and decrease in compressor speed, the iSpeed drives reduce allow wear and stresses on moving parts. The same intelligent technology also enables fewer compressors to be used in many applications, with one variable speed controlled compressor being temporarily run at higher capacity, rather than starting several fixed speed compressors to meet short term increases in load demand; in a typical installation a single iSpeed drive can control one variable speed compressor and up to eight fixed speed compressor units.

The new drives can be retro-fitted by end users to existing refrigeration or air conditioning systems, or used by OEMs in new builds. In each case, iSpeed drives are easy to install, configure and operate, featuring pre-programmed modular control algorithms and interfaces to a wide range of standard third party controllers.

The new iSpeed family of intelligent variable speed drives has been developed through a partnership between Parker Hannifin’ Sporlan Valve Division and KIMO RHVAC. This brings together KIMO’s specialised software skills in the field of refrigeration, with Parker Hannifin’s reputation as an industry leader, developed over 70 years, for advanced components and systems for the heating, ventilation, air conditioning and refrigeration sectors, with a global network of manufacturing, sales and technical support centres.