Ecodan controller expands the reach of low carbon heating
Mitsubishi Electric has launched the fourth generation of its flow temperature controller (FTC-4) for its range of domestic Ecodan® air source heat pumps to deliver two-zone heating, allowing the system to work seamlessly in tandem with a gas or oil boiler, and enable operating parameters to be decided and saved before installers get to the site.
The new FTC-4 controller, which is available on the company’s packaged cylinders and Hydrobox options, allows up to six Ecodan units to be linked and controlled together. This cascade facility enables the system to deliver between 5kW and 84kW, making it ideal for multi-use premises such as blocks of flats or for light commercial situations.
The two-zone control makes Ecodan a highly attractive proposition for medium-sized new-build homes whilst the ability to work in conjunction with gas and oil, means low carbon, renewable heating can now become a reality for large domestic properties.
“Using the Hydrobox option, Ecodan can still work with other cylinders but we have expanded the capabilities of our own equipment to offer even more design and operating flexibility,” explains Max Halliwell, Product Manager for the Heating Systems Division.
The new Multiple Unit Cascade feature enables up to six Ecodan PUHZ models from the range to be operated from one master controller. The intelligent controls rotate operation amongst the individual units, allowing the system to decide the operating capacity requirements based on a building’s heating load.
“This brings advanced heat pump heating into larger properties and the light commercial sector in a way that confounds traditional thinking,” adds Halliwell. “Add to this the ability to work alongside an existing heating system and we can now offer a simple route to low carbon heating for many more buildings.”
On a bivalent system, the FTC-4 controller calculates which technology to run at any one time with the whole thing switching automatically between heat pump and carbon-based heating. Mitsubishi Electric has developed the FTC-4 to cater for building operators who have a working oil or gas heating system but still need to meet renewable energy targets.
New software for the Ecodan system has also been developed to enable the operating parameters for the new controller to be set before an installer visits the site to commission the system. This will be particularly useful for large projects involving multiple properties.
“We know that Ecodan can deliver real reductions in emissions and fuel bills whilst also helping buildings meet renewable energy targets,” says Halliwell. “The development of this new controller will enable more building operators to see how heat pumps can help deliver low cost reliable heating into their premises.”
Ends
Note to editor:
Founded in 1921, Mitsubishi Electric is a global, market leading, environmental technologies manufacturer, producing an advanced range of heating, air conditioning and ventilation equipment. The company realises that ensuring the right solutions are selected for each individual building, requires collaboration by all involved. Mitsubishi Electric has therefore changed the way it does business to ensure engagement with all involved in delivering sustainable buildings so that together, we can make a world of difference.
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