HRM-V™ System Installation Logistics

Due to the split nature of the HRM-V™ system and the long distance that separates the air streams, a complete factory installation into an air handling unit is not always feasible.  The heat pipe coils can be installed into air handling units at HPT or at a manufacturer’s facility, and then shipped to the project location where the remaining work such as piping, and controls is completed on site. HPT trained technicians then travel to the job site to vacuum and charge the system if it passes the 48 hours pressure test.. Below are guidelines for a standard scope of work involved for an HRM-V™ split passive heat pipe system installation.

 

Heat Pipe Technology -

 

  1. Heat pipes, supply and exhaust which will be shipped in sections of two rows each with an upper and lower headers.
  2. Stepper control valves, if required.
  3. Control box that includes PCBs and transformer.
  4. Dampers and actuators for Dynamic Seasonal Offset (DSO™) systems.
  5. Moisture eliminators if specified.
  6. Verify pressure test on site.
  7. Vacuum and charge.

 

Equipment Vendor -

 

  1. Space to facilitate installation into air handlers and or special sections for the exhaust heat pipes
  2. Mounting and securing hard ware
  3. Extended drain under both supply and exhaust

 

Equipment Vendor or Mechanical Contractor -

 

  1. Receiving and installation of heat pipe coils in the supply and exhaust air streams.
  2. Provide and install type L, ACR copper piping, fittings and control valves between the heat pipe sections per HPT guidelines.
  3. Insulation for all exposed piping, condensate drains including appropriate traps for both coils
  4. Nitrogen for purging and pressure testing per Heat Pipe Technology’s specified pipe sizes and guidelines.
  5. Provide the refrigerant to charge the system per Heat Pipe Technology’s estimate amount plus any extra that may be needed due to changes in estimated piping lengths.
  6. Follow piping between the coils shall be run overhead and properly supported without creating traps per Heat Pipe Technology drawings and guidelines.

 

 

Drain Pans -

 

A drain pan is required to retrieve moisture from both supply and exhaust sides of the heat pipe coils. Due to the vertical orientation of the tubes, the fins are horizontal. Condensate does not drain to the bottom of the coil as it does with a conventional coil. The condensate can build on each fin until it is pushed away at the leaving face by airflow. Therefore, condensate management must be taken into account during the initial layout of the system. A moisture eliminator or an extended drain pan should be utilized for capturing condensate.

 

Filters

 

To ensure a clean fin surface and optimal performance, suitable filters should be installed. Filter racks should be placed upstream of the supply and exhaust coils even if the exhaust is from clean indoor air. The types of filters should be compatible with the specific environmental conditions for a given application. It is recommended that inspection doors be installed adjacent to the heat pipe on both supply and exhaust sections.

<