KMC Controls announced today that its FlexStat™ controller/sensor, with integral Copeland Scroll Digital™ compressor control, is now approved for use with the 3–15 ton range of Copeland Scroll Digital compressors. KMC has received manufacturer’s approval of special models of the popular FlexStat controllers for use in commercial air conditioning applications that have a Copeland Scroll Digital compressor installed to provide variable capacity.
The KMC controller may be applied in most single or multi-stage DX compressor unitary applications including RTU or split commercial and residential unitary applications, heat pumps, chiller, or commercial refrigeration applications.
In single compressor applications, the KMC controller varies the capacity of the Copeland Scroll Digital compressor over 10–100% of the rated capacity. Below 10% cooling demand, the controller automatically cycles the compressor ON and OFF to meet low levels of demand. In multiple compressor (tandem) applications, the KMC controller manages the variable capacity Copeland Scroll Digital compressor as the 1st stage of cooling, effectively providing 5–100% variable capacity control over the full range of cooling demand.
All required safeties to properly load and unload the Copeland Scroll Digital compressor are embedded in the firmware of the device, negating the need for any external safety devices (other than mechanical emergency high and low pressure cutout switches).
New equipment designs may provide variable capacity cooling control without requiring use of chilled water systems.
Built-in control sequences for de-humidification are standard in models with optional humidity sensor. In sub-tropical and other moist climates, precise control of the Copeland Scroll Digital compressor enables the system to maintain the desired sensible/latent heat ratios without rapid cycling of the compressor, improving human comfort.
The use of the FlexStat family as an approved ’off the shelf‘ solution enables use of Copeland Scroll Digital compressors in retrofit/service applications to enable variable capacity, de-humidification, and other features potentially improving system performance and reducing operating costs.
“Emerson Climate Technologies is pleased to have collaborated with KMC Controls to develop this system for use with our Copeland Scroll Digital compressor technology,” says Bart Powelson, Director of Commercial Marketing for Air Conditioning. “KMC has developed a true ‘closed loop’ control system for most unitary applications that accurately varies the compressor capacity in response to dynamic system requirements in temperature and humidity. KMC’s product also incorporates all safety and compressor protection features required to maintain the standard manufacturer’s warranty. This new system provides HVAC system designers with a superior, lower cost, and extended range of solutions when designing associated mechanical cooling equipment. We are excited about the opportunities that this collaborative effort brings to the HVAC equipment marketplace in new and retrofit applications. ”
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About Emerson Climate Technologies
Emerson Climate Technologies, a business segment of Emerson, is the world’s leading provider of heating, air conditioning and refrigeration solutions for residential, industrial and commercial applications. The group combines best-in-class technology with proven engineering, design, distribution, educational and monitoring services to provide customized, integrated climate-control solutions for customers worldwide. Emerson Climate Technologies’ innovative solutions, which include industry-leading brands such as Copeland Scroll and White-Rodgers, improve human comfort, safeguard food and protect the environment.
About KMC Controls
KMC Controls has been designing and manufacturing building automation solutions, HVAC control products and energy management solutions for more than 40 years. KMC remains the only privately held controls manufacturer with a full line of digital, electronic, and pneumatic products. Its professional affiliations include BACnet International and USGBC, among others. KMC maintains regional sales offices throughout the U.S. and distributes its solutions and products through value-added, authorized installing contractors, wholesalers, and original equipment manufacturers throughout North America as well as authorized distributors worldwide.