SECAUCUS, N.J. - Panasonic Industrial Co., a division of Panasonic Corp. of North America, has announced the launch of its R2 next-generation rotary compressors for unitary applications. According to the company, the R2 compressors introduce a new level of performance and economy for residential central air conditioning. The compressors are said to deliver excellent reliability, low noise levels, and cost benefits for 13 SEER and higher solutions. This product is currently available for installation through select original equipment manufacturers (OEMs).

New technology improvements, enhanced materials, and simple design differentiate R2 next-generation rotary compressors, the company stated. Significant focus was given to improving reliability and ensuring the compressor design supports efficiency requirements for years to come.

"With recent product improvements, the result is a compressor with a low applied cost and performance very similar to a scroll compressor," said Sam Piccarreta, director, Panasonic Industrial Co.

Several OEMs are currently using the product, one for its primary 13 SEER product and another for its flagship model, providing the highest efficiency air conditioning solution available on the market today, Panasonic noted.

Rotary compression technology is the dominant residential air conditioning technology globally, used in more than 80 percent of the world's residential applications.

"Panasonic's R2 compressors provide homeowners not only the comfort of dependable, quiet, and efficient air conditioning, but also the comfort that comes from a trustworthy and well known manufacturer like Panasonic," Piccarreta explained. "Homeowner and customer satisfaction is assured with air conditioning delivered by an R2 rotary compressor."

The new R2 rotary compressors range from 1 to 4 tons and support the use of R-410A and R-22 refrigerants.

To provide information on this new technology, Panasonic is launching an R2 compressor Website at www.panasonic.com/R2.

Publication date: 07/03/2006