Mitsubishi Heavy Industries Thermal Systems, Ltd. (MHI Thermal Systems), a part of Mitsubishi Heavy Industries (MHI) Group, has started mass production of the “KXZ3 Series” of building-use multi-split air-conditioners for its worldwide markets. The newly added lineup, which adopts the R32 refrigerant, is available in three models: 22.4, 28.0 and 33.5kW. By combining individual units, a maximum 100.05kW can be achieved to accommodate a wide range of overseas needs. The new series will be launched in the European market this summer, to be followed by successive launches in Australia, New Zealand and Turkey.
KXZ3 Series
The KXZ3 Series helps mitigate environmental impacts through adoption of the R32 refrigerant having a Global Warming Potential (GWP) (Note1) of 675, which is roughly one-third the level of the R410A refrigerant (GWP 2,090) used in earlier models. The new series also increases energy savings through a near 18% improvement in seasonal energy efficiency ratio (SEER) (Note2), an indicator of an air-conditioner’s energy efficiency. Efficiency enhancement owes to the adoption of a new type of compressor suited to the R32 refrigerant plus a new air flow path design, including a newly configured impeller and bellmouth.
The KXZ3 Series also features a new exterior design with blue ornamentation, while the required installation space has been cut some 28% from the previous models thanks to adoption of a single-fan structure and a compact yet highly efficient heat exchanger with a reduced diameter copper tube. Newly added features include: 1) Variable Temperature & Capacity Control +, which automatically adjusts for an ideal balance between energy saving performance and indoor comfort with the automatic adjustment of refrigerant pressure according to the indoor and outdoor temperatures and 2) “hot gas bypass defrost,” an operating mode that alleviates the fall in indoor temperature common to earlier defrosting operation (Note3). Under certain conditions, the KXZ3 Series, like other products adopting the R32 refrigerant, also requires additional safety features in order to satisfy European safety standards. MHI Thermal Systems has a lineup of dedicated safety devices. Among them is a shutoff valve that can be connected to multiple indoor units. In these and other ways, the KXZ3 Series has specifications enabling customers to curb initial installation costs.
Going forward, MHI Thermal Systems will continue making positive contributions to the expanding global quest to achieve decarbonization through provision of solutions in its air-conditioning business, including packaged and building-use air-conditioners for overseas markets that simultaneously achieve both energy savings and indoor comfort.
(1) Global Warming Potential (GWP) shows how much impact a gas will have on atmospheric warming over a period of time compared to carbon dioxide of which GWP=1. (2) Comparison is based on the respective 28.0kW outdoor units. (3) Conventional defrosting removes frost formed on the outdoor unit during heating operation. Because the airflow of the indoor unit stops during operation, the indoor temperature may fall temporarily, depending on the building conditions.
About MHI Group
Mitsubishi Heavy Industries (MHI) Group is one of the world’s leading industrial groups, spanning energy, smart infrastructure, industrial machinery, aerospace and defense. MHI Group combines cutting-edge technology with deep experience to deliver innovative, integrated solutions that help to realize a carbon neutral world, improve the quality of life and ensure a safer world. For more information, please visit www.mhi.com or follow our insights and stories on spectra.mhi.com.
Mitsubishi Heavy Industries Thermal Systems, Ltd., a part of Mitsubishi Heavy Industries (MHI) Group, will launch 31 new models of residential-use air-conditioners for the Japanese market for 2024. The new models in five series will be released starting April 1. The 2024 lineup comprises nine models in the Company’s top-of-the-line S Series, featuring outstanding energy efficiency, functions for comfort and cleanliness, and a high Annual Performance Factor (APF), four models in the SK Series with enhanced heating capacity for use in cold regions, six models in the high-performance R Series incorporating an automatic filter cleaning function, seven models in the standard T Series, and five models in the TWF Series of T Series models with smartphone control functionality included as standard. Together these new models provide comfortable living spaces for diverse lifestyles.
Features of the New Models
1. Two types of sensors, and functions using ions and ozone provide comfort and cleanliness (S Series / SK Series)
1) A comfortable environment provided by two types of sensors (motion and thermal sensors)The incorporation of a motion sensor to detect the movement of people, and a thermal sensor to detect the location of people and changes in the temperature of walls and floors, allows for an “AI Automatic Comfort” operating mode in which AI utilizes information from the sensors to automatically optimize comfort and energy efficiency, as well as a new “Sensor-Guided Airflow” and “Breeze Direction” operating mode to automatically adjust the direction of the airflow.
AI Automatic Comfort ModeAn AI system monitors people and the interior of the room using two types of sensors, and automatically controls the temperature. In addition, the AI learns how the room cools and warms, and adjusts automatically for comfortable and energy-saving operation.
New Sensor-Guided AirflowTwo types of sensors are used to monitor the activity of the room occupants and the temperature of the walls and floors, and control the direction of the airflow.
2) A clean environment provided by functions using ions and ozoneThe cleanliness of the indoor unit has been enhanced with such features as a “Refreshing Ion Mode” that releases negative ions to inhibit the proliferation of viruses, bacteria, and mold, an “Aqua Ozone Mode” that floods the indoor unit with ions and ozone to inhibit the growth of odor and dirt-causing bacteria, and a “Aqua Ozone Heating Mode” that uses heated-air drying to inhibit the growth of mold bacteria.
Refreshing Ion ModeThese units have an ionizer module able to efficiently generate ions at high voltage. The release of ions during operation acts to inhibit viruses, bacteria, and mold, cleaning the air in the room.
Aqua Ozone Mode / Aqua Ozone Heating ModeThe inside of the air-conditioner is filled with ozone and ions to suppress bacteria that cause odors and dirt. Drying the unit thoroughly in fan mode inhibits the growth of mold and bacteria. In addition, the use of heated-air drying can further suppress heat-sensitive mold.
2. High heating capacity in cold regions (SK Series)The SK Series incorporates a “Hot Standby Function” that preheats the compressor based on outside temperature conditions to shorten the heating start-up time, along with a hot-gas bypass defrosting control system. With conventional systems, each time the system performs a defrost cycle the indoor temperature drops by 4-5℃, making the room feel chilly and uncomfortable. With the hot-gas bypass defrosting control system, however, a portion of the high-temperature gas flowing to the indoor side is directed to the exterior unit, limiting the drop in indoor temperature and providing non-stop heating.
3. Expanded lineup of models with smartphone control as standard functionality (R Series / TWF Series)The optional wireless LAN interface, which in the previous lineup was only available as built-in standard functionality for top-of-the-line models (S Series and SK Series), has been integrated as standard on high-performance models (R Series) and standard models (TWF Series), making the smartphone operation functionality available. These models can be controlled with a smartphone without altering the outward appearance of the unit. The operability of these models has also been improved with the capability to link them to a smart speaker (sold separately) to provide voice-activated control or confirmation of the operating status.
4. The lineup of 31 models in five series provides comfortable spaces for diverse lifestylesContinuing from the 2023 models, all five series have a “WARP” operating mode enabling rapid cooling or heating, an extra-powerful “JET Airflow” operating mode, and a “Allergen-clear” operating mode in which temperature and humidity near the filter is controlled to suppress pollen by using enzymes and urea in the allergen-clear filter.
In addition, the indoor units in the R Series, T Series, and TWF Series are of compact dimensions, with a height of only 25cm, allowing for installation even in tight spaces such as above tall windows or below clipped ceilings.
As with the 2023 models, the S Series, SK Series, and R Series are equipped with a function allowing linked and synchronized operation with the “roomist” SHK Series of hybrid evaporative warm-mist humidifiers from MHI Group firm Mitsubishi Heavy Industries Air-Conditioning & Refrigeration Corporation, allowing for optimal control of the temperature and humidity.
Further, all series contribute to environmental conservation with the use of filter holders made from a synthetic resin containing recycled tea leaves, an upcycling of tea leaves using the Tea Leaves Recycling System developed by Japanese beverage company ITO EN, Ltd.Tags: air conditioner
About MHI Group
Mitsubishi Heavy Industries (MHI) Group is one of the world’s leading industrial groups, spanning energy, smart infrastructure, industrial machinery, aerospace and defense. MHI Group combines cutting-edge technology with deep experience to deliver innovative, integrated solutions that help to realize a carbon neutral world, improve the quality of life and ensure a safer world. For more information, please visit www.mhi.com or follow our insights and stories on spectra.mhi.com.
Mitsubishi Heavy Industries Thermal Systems, Ltd. (MHI Thermal Systems), a part of Mitsubishi Heavy Industries (MHI) Group, is to add “Hydrolution PRO (trademark registration in progress)” Series of air-cooled heat pump chillers(1) to its product lineup for the European market. This Series consists of three models with capacities of 50kW/75kW/100kW classes. These models are designed to suit various applications, ranging from space cooling/heating in residential and office buildings to cooling/heating needs in industrial and IT settings. The market launch will initiate with the 50kW-class model in spring 2024, followed by the introduction of other models.
With the increasing environmental consciousness in Europe urging for reducing the amount and lowering Global Warming Potential (GWP(2) ) of refrigerant used in equipment with refrigerant. As one of the countermeasures, MHI Thermal Systems adds the air-cooled heat pump chiller which is the water circulation system to its product lineup. Adoption of the R32 refrigerant (675 GWP), already widely used in residential air-conditioners, in place of R410A refrigerant (2,090 GWP), common in air-cooled heat pump chillers, has reduced GWP to approximately one-third. In addition, proprietary technologies such as an advanced “e-3D scroll” compressor contribute to the energy saving performance and environmental protection by delivering the industry’s top-tier(3) SCOP(4) of 4.59 by 50kW-class, combined with an approximately 43% (N5) reduction in refrigerant charge volume.
The compressor of “Hydrolution PRO” Series features an advanced “e-3D scroll” compressor, which compresses both vertically and horizontally to reduce mechanical loss with more compact compressing structure compared to the typical scroll compressors, thereby enhances efficiency during low loads significantly. This compressor and water pump are inverter controlled which enables optimal operation control depending on the load. The remote control allows setting and adjustment of up to 20 air-cooled heat pump chillers with intuitive touch operation. A calendar function is integrated into the remote control empowers users to create customized and optimized operation schedules, adjusting multiple units for both cooling and heating according to seasonal variations and load requirements for mixed cooling/heating control. Furthermore, the newly developed group management controller optimizes the number of operating units in line with equipment load and performs precise operation control. Modbus® communication is equipped as standard, and this allows the easy connection with the upper supervision control system to visualize energy.
MHI Group, in accordance with its Carbon Neutral Declaration to achieve net zero emissions by 2040, is currently taking steps to reduce CO2 emissions both from its own plants and associated facilities involved in production activities, as well as from customer facilities that use its Group products. As a key member of the Group, MHI Thermal Systems remains committed to harnessing its technologies and products to drive greater energy efficiency and environmental sustainability. Leveraging its extensive technological expertise facilitated by synergies within the Group’s diverse operations, MHI Thermal Systems is dedicated to delivering optimal thermal solutions that support the journey towards carbon neutrality.
(1) A heat pump chiller is a unit that creates and supplies hot and cold water to office buildings and industrial facilities such as factories for air-conditioning and other applications. Heat pump chillers are used mainly in cooling applications, but as the term “heat pump” indicates, they also can serve to heat water to high temperatures. They consist of circuitry using a refrigerant and water circulation system. The refrigerant and water perform heat exchange through a water heat exchanger. (2) The lower the value, the higher the level of environmental impact. CO2 has a GWP of 1. (3) According to MHI Thermal Systems’ research as of March 2024. (4) Seasonal Coefficient of Performance. It is the performance indicator during the heating season. The higher the value, the greater the energy saving. (5) Comparison with MSV which adopts R410A refrigerant manufactured by MHI Thermal Systems.
About MHI Group
Mitsubishi Heavy Industries (MHI) Group is one of the world’s leading industrial groups, spanning energy, smart infrastructure, industrial machinery, aerospace and defense. MHI Group combines cutting-edge technology with deep experience to deliver innovative, integrated solutions that help to realize a carbon neutral world, improve the quality of life and ensure a safer world. For more information, please visit www.mhi.com or follow our insights and stories on spectra.mhi.com.
MHI Thermal Systems to Launch New Air-Conditioner TV Ads Featuring Popular Actor Keiko Kitagawa
– Two Versions Set for Broadcasting Commencing January 26 –
– Both versions – for residential and commercial air-conditioners – stress the concept of “Offering comfort around the world through thermal solutions” – Commercials and behind-the-scenes production clips will be posted on the company’s website and social media accounts
Mitsubishi Heavy Industries Thermal Systems, Ltd. (MHI Thermal Systems), a Mitsubishi Heavy Industries (MHI) Group company, is launching new television commercials promoting its lineups of air-conditioners for the Japanese market. As with its previous ads, the new commercials will be broadcast in two versions: one for its lineup of “kashikoi” (smart) residential air-conditioners and the other for its “kigakiku” (attentive) commercial air-conditioners. Both versions, which again feature popular actor Keiko Kitagawa, focus on the new offerings’ outstanding comfort, energy savings and clean operation. Broadcasting will get underway in almost all regions nationwide starting January 26.
Both commercials, as well as behind-the-scenes clips taken during their production, will be available for viewing on the MHI Thermal Systems website and also on the company’s official social media accounts (X and Facebook: content available in Japanese only). The new commercials will help publicize MHI Thermal Systems’ ability to provide optimal thermal solutions meeting diverse market needs.
Available for online viewingIn one of the new TV commercials, Keiko Kitagawa is shown wearing an eye-catching red dress adorned with a large ribbon, while in the other she wears simple blue slacks, a style she is said to favor. One version presents a softer image, while the other conjures up a calm, more business-like ambience. Both commercials represent a modest departure from the tone of previous ads in the series.
Off camera, Ms. Kitagawa was all smiles during the shoot, her happy glow adding a cheerful atmosphere to the production set. Visitors to the MHI Thermal Systems website or online social media accounts are sure to enjoy seeing her at her most natural in the behind-the-scenes clips.
About MHI Group
Mitsubishi Heavy Industries (MHI) Group is one of the world’s leading industrial groups, spanning energy, smart infrastructure, industrial machinery, aerospace and defense. MHI Group combines cutting-edge technology with deep experience to deliver innovative, integrated solutions that help to realize a carbon neutral world, improve the quality of life and ensure a safer world. For more information, please visit www.mhi.com or follow our insights and stories on spectra.mhi.com.
Mitsubishi Heavy Industries Thermal Systems, Ltd. (MHI Thermal Systems), a part of Mitsubishi Heavy Industries (MHI) Group, has added a new series, “Hydrolution EZY,” to its lineup of air-to-water (ATW) heat pumps for the European market. This new line includes two models with capacities of 10kW and 14kW, scheduled for release this winter.
Hydrolution EZY
The Hydrolution EZY series, featuring monobloc design, reflects our commitment to sustainability and contributes to the ongoing development of a decarbonized society in Europe, aligning with our existing eco-friendly split-type units. The series use the eco-friendly R32 refrigerant, just like their split ATW counterparts. They are also quieter during operation and have a broader temperature range. Plus, the integrated water heat exchanger in the outdoor unit simplifies installation compared to the split-type systems, which requires both refrigerant piping and water piping.
Innovative engineering has led to an improved anti-vibration technology achieved through material enhancements and other innovations. This structure effectively reduces sound power levels, including noise, to 60dB (A) in the 10kW class model, even when running at full capacity. Additionally, the addition of a quiet mode, further reducing operational noise, ensures compliance with various noise regulations, particularly important in densely populated residential areas. These new ATW systems also work effectively in a wide range of outside temperatures, from -25℃ to 43℃, and can deliver 60℃ hot water even when the outside temperature is -25℃, making them a great replacement for combustion-type boilers in cold regions and reducing carbon emissions significantly.
In October 2021, MHI Group declared “MISSION NET ZERO” (Note) under which the Company aims to cut its Groupwide CO2emissions to net zero by 2040. This effort mainly focuses on reducing CO2 emissions from production activities at MHI’s own facilities and reducing CO2 emissions at customer sites using MHI Group products. In the environmentally conscious European market, the Hydrolution EZY series is expected to accelerate the shift from fossil fuel-burning combustion-type boilers to electric ATWs, thereby reducing the substantial CO2 emissions associated with the latter. These systems represent a significant step towards achieving carbon neutrality across Europe, aligning with MHI Group’s MISSION NET ZERO.
Looking ahead, MHI Thermal Systems remains committed to leveraging its expertise in refrigeration and heating systems to develop environmentally friendly technologies and products. The goal is to provide optimal thermal solutions that contribute to achieving carbon neutrality, not only in Europe but also globally.
For further information on MISSION NET ZERO, see:https://www.mhi.com/company/aboutmhi/carbon-neutral
About MHI Group
Mitsubishi Heavy Industries (MHI) Group is one of the world’s leading industrial groups, spanning energy, smart infrastructure, industrial machinery, aerospace and defense. MHI Group combines cutting-edge technology with deep experience to deliver innovative, integrated solutions that help to realize a carbon neutral world, improve the quality of life and ensure a safer world. For more information, please visit www.mhi.com or follow our insights and stories on spectra.mhi.com.
