In this two-part Q&A CCN talks to Lux Research director, Arij van Berkel, about the key trends impacting HVACR.
Berkel is the keynote speaker at this year's CCN Live event on August 2, 2016.
Early bird tickets are still available at https://secure.twodeforce.com.au/hvacr/register
CCN: How would you describe the current HVACR landscape globally?
Van Berkel: HVAC and refrigeration are still, to a large extent, a locally consolidated market. A few big players supply most of the equipment to a certain region. The regional differences are determined by differences in fuel mix, building style and local regulations, especially building codes and energy policies. Having said that, we can see the market converging, although it is too early to tell if this will be a global market.
CCN:What are some of the key trends currently emerging in the sector?
Van Berkel: On the building and system level there is a trend to design the HVACR system together with the building instead of as an add-on once the building design is there. This trend is enabled by advanced building physics models that architects can use nowadays to design the movement of air and heat through the building.
Combining passive measures, such as window blinds, evaporative cooling materials and active coating with active HVACR equipments, results in energy efficient and versatile solutions. At the same time, it leads to changing business models, where cooperation between HVAC OEMs and architects and construction companies (enabled through BIM) is getting more important.
Manufacturers that can provide flexible and tailor-made equipment and solutions and can work with architects in the design phase have a distinct advantage in this market.
CCN: What about on the system level?
Van Berkel: Environmental conditions controlled by the HVACR system are expanding because comfort is no longer managed by just controlling temperature and humidity. Other factors are becoming just as important such as air quality (Co2 levels, fine dust, NOx) and personal comfort in terms of air flows and infrared radiation.
As knowledge about the relationship between environmental factors and personal well-being and productivity increases, the role of the HVACR system expands to provide a detailed control of environmental factors. New elements need to be integrated in the systems, such as filters and infrared panels. Further integration with light management (daylighting and artificial) seem to be just a matter of time. Manufacturers should be expanding the capabilities of their systems.
Read part two of this exclusive Q&A in next week's e-newsletter.