Other developments currently underway to meet the DOE energy reduction standards include generational improvements. For medium-temperature, walk-in applications, Emerson has extended the Copeland Scroll ZB*KA platform by reducing the horsepower range to .75 hp, which may also be suitable for large reach-in units.

For low-temperature, liquid injected scrolls, the horsepower has been reduced to a range of .75 to 1.5 hp to accommodate walk-in use. Additional efforts include a reduction in existing fractional hp compressors to less than .5 hp used in reach-ins and the development of new condensing units for the next generation of fractional hp compressors.

Emerson is also currently developing higher-efficiency reciprocating compressors and condensing units for reach-in and other styles of self-contained applications. These condensing units will be harnessing new and more efficient fractional horsepower compressors. The company says the condensing units include many design improvements to create two times the energy efficiency while maintaining the same small or potentially even smaller footprint.

It’s important to note that the walk-in standard, condensing unit, unit cooler, panels and door performances are able to be self-tested and self-qualified. However, on the reach-in applications, the system efficiency is evaluated as a whole, including insulation, walls, doors, compressor, and fans. 

Emerson says it is vested in rating all compressors and condensing units with the Environmental Protection Agency’s (EPA) alternative A1 SNAP listed refrigerants.

For original equipment manufacturers that have begun the process of evaluating and making system changes to qualify with the DOE or EPA mandates, Emerson is providing guidance on compressor technologies and will do a complete system evaluation through its Design Services Network. To learn more, go here.