If there was a road sign available to direct the HVAC&R industry to the year 2020 it would read: Be warned. Big changes ahead.
Change is the only constant for this industry over the next decade, as the global phaseout of HCFCs introduces some very real refrigerant supply issues and customers are forced to retrofit existing systems and test replacements.
Its a period of trials and tribulation as organisations work to overcome system performance issues and implement operational plans for the future.
To survive the current regulatory environment organisations need a plan A and a plan B.
As Bitzer’s chief engineer Heinz Jurgensen told customers at the company’s Sydney roadshow “nothing is certain except change” and by the year 2021 “you won’t be able to refill existing systems.”
He outlined massive change in a very short period of time.
This stark appraisal of the next decade will see customers trialling more flammable replacements and learning the safe handling skills necessary to operate in this new, low Global Warming Potential (GWP) world.
An example of this is the arrival of R32, which made its debut on Australian shores last month (full story page six). It’s further proof that the future is already here.
Heatcraft also held its roadshow recently delivering a similar message. Heatcraft is encouraging customers to start considering their options, to test replacements, and to prioritise energy efficiency.
The company’s national channel manager, Tony Queenin, presented slides at the roadshow showing that in the year 2011 Australia imported 1300 tonnes of R22.
Last year imports dropped to 725 tonnes. By 2016, it will be 45 tonnes.
It’s amazing how a single graph can be more revealing than a Playboy magazine.
Both roadshows are covered in our bumper 25-page feature on compressors, condensers & evaporators in CCN Magazine (November).
Another timely addition to this issue of CCN is a special series on improving the energy efficiency of commercial refrigeration systems.
There is a lot to absorb in today’s fast moving business climate which is why planning is critical.
Like a road sign the key message for customers is simple., that is to plan for the future. No plan means no business for you.