The HVAC segment is constantly expanding and is divided into narrower niches. Manufacturers are moving away from universal systems, replacing them with more productive and easy-to-use analogues. So there are specialized devices for humidification, air purification, ozonation and other functions. The main direction of development, which improves traditional air conditioners, remains relevant, although not all technologies survive in this group. Promising developments include VRV systems, which entered the market more than 20 years ago, but even today do not have a worthy alternative in the climate equipment market.
Features of multi-zone air conditioning
In essence, the hardware components for a VRV system do not offer anything fundamentally new. The design is the same block with a compressor, which is also used in monoblock systems. Technological features are associated with the approach to the placement of the elements of the complex and the nature of the interaction between them. But first, you should consider the operational differences that a VRV air conditioning system has. What is this system from the point of view of the consumer? This isa complex multi-zone complex that allows you to control the microclimate in several rooms. Theoretically, this configuration is suitable for both office space and industrial facilities. In practice, this development is mainly used in the arrangement of public buildings and shopping centers.
What is the difference between VRV and split system?
One of the most notable features of VRV technology is the ability to service multiple units with a single outdoor unit. But the classic split system has the same advantage. It can be said that this is a common feature that combines two concepts. But even here, not everything is clear, since the indoor unit of the VRV system can be represented by dozens of elements. In practice, there are about 40 segments located in different parts of the building. A split system is also capable of providing an object with the same number of executive modules, but this will be irrational in terms of energy consumption. For such systems, the number of indoor units usually does not exceed 8 elements - this is the best option for a country house, but not for a large shopping center. But there is another feature of VRV technology. The fact is that the outdoor unit provides for the possibility of power regulation, that is, it is possible to control the state of the refrigerant.
System design
At the very first stages, experts calculate the refnet parametersand routes for laying pipelines in the conditions of a particular facility. The development of the design solution takes into account the optimal indicators of the microclimate, the parameters of cold and heat loads for each room. With the help of special programs, energy consumption is also calculated and an optimal model of thermal regimes is formed. Next, a schematic configuration is drawn up, according to which the VRV air conditioning system will be integrated - what does this mean in terms of documentary presentation? To date, traditional sets of technical documentation with graphs and drawings are still common, after reading which the future user approves or makes adjustments to the project. However, climate equipment manufacturers, understanding the complexity of multi-zone systems, offer automated design systems in the form of software. Such systems allow, by entering the initial data, to calculate and design the optimal system, selecting the most suitable equipment for it.
Installation of VRV systems
It has already been noted that such a system can include about 40 blocks. However, industrial modern ones provide for the presence of 100 modules. Moreover, advanced complexes allow the possibility of connecting several bundles into one network, eventually forming a chain of 250 or more links. Accordingly, installation is carried out only by highly qualified specialists using self-diagnostic systems that detect errors during installation. The direct installation of each unit individually is carried out in the same way as in the case of conventional systems. That is, the outdoor unit of the VRV system is fixed to the wall from the side of the street by means of dowels and a load-bearing frame. The indoor module is also mounted in the room itself, after which a route is laid between the two components, along which the refrigerant with air flows will pass.
VRV Service
The technological complexity of the equipment necessitates regular maintenance activities. As practice shows, such actions help not only to increase the operational life of systems several times, but also have a positive effect on reducing energy consumption. So, maintenance of VRV systems includes performing inspection activities, replacing and replenishing consumables, as well as adjusting operating parameters. As for the verification, this stage covers the revision of the functioning of the fans, the grounding system, the drainage complex, the tightness of the blocks, etc. Upgrading consumables include replacing filters and refilling refrigerant. At the final stage, the working components of the system are calibrated, the temperature conditions are adjusted, and, if necessary, the automatic operation mode is adjusted.
System Manufacturers
There are not as many manufacturers in the VRV-systems segment as in the case of conventional air conditioners. Daikin is considered the leader in the class, the developers of which at one time andbecame the authors of the concept. At the moment, the manufacturer is already producing the third generation of such equipment, expanding its functionality, improving ergonomics and reliability. Toshiba's multi-zone VRV systems also demonstrate their features. In particular, the company is working on optimizing the communication schemes between the units, successfully increasing the performance for outdoor units, and is at the forefront in the development of intelligent refrigerant control systems. Mitsubishi offers are also interesting. The models of this company are distinguished by advanced control systems with infrared remotes, centralized panels, as well as individual wired controllers.
Positive feedback about VRV-systems
The main advantage of the system lies in the overall optimization of the cost of equipment, reducing installation costs and minimizing the cost of subsequent maintenance of air conditioners. Although from the outside, the installation of a multi-zone complex complex seems rather problematic and even unrealizable, in practice, the owners note that all initial labor and financial investments pay off in full. This is especially noticeable when comparing VRV systems with the same split units, which take up more space, require additional space for communications and are generally more expensive.
Negative reviews
Of course, many users are put off by the intricacies of design work and the nuances of maintenance. As the owners note, budget solutions of this type are especiallywhimsical in terms of content, and, most importantly, in them the blocks depend on each other. Therefore, it is recommended to purchase more technological kits, but they are more expensive. In addition, it is not always advisable to install VRV systems in truncated versions - that is, to use for private houses and apartments, even with several installation points for indoor units. For such purposes, manufacturers offer traditional split systems that are less developed functionally and technologically.
Conclusion
VRV air conditioning technology is in many ways similar to the practice of using alternative energy sources. In the long run, they promise many benefits, including minimizing the financial cost of electricity consumption. But, as with solar panels, VRV systems require a significant upfront investment. And this applies not only to financial expenses. Almost every project of this kind can be characterized as large-scale. Even objects for which 30-40 air conditioning units are supposed to be installed require qualified and responsible work to create a technical solution and no less complex installation operations.
