YORK® Navy Systems Designs New Generation of Shipboard Chillers for U.S. Fleet
New units reduce fuel consumption and maintenance, help U.S. Navy reach aggressive cost and operating goals
Milwaukee –July 18, 2013 – YORK® Navy Systems by Johnson Controls announces the successful operation of a prototype compressor for a new generation of shipboard chillers for the U.S. Navy fleet. Under an American Recovery and Reinvestment Act funded contract awarded by the U.S. Navy in 2009, YORK® Navy Systems began developing the next generation of high-efficiency chillers to improve shipboard heating, ventilating and air conditioning (HVAC) systems. Currently more than 90 percent of the vessels in the U.S. Navy fleet use YORK® air conditioning and refrigeration equipment.
Chillers provide vital cooling for ship weapons, command and control systems and crew comfort. Navy chillers must be designed for 35- to 50-years of service during which they will be exposed to extreme environments such as weapons-effect shock, heavy-weather ship vibration, and temperatures ranging from the Arctic to tropical locations.
The Navy’s aggressive goals for the next generation of chillers are to:
- Reduce fuel consumption by 25 percent and maintenance by at least 50 percent
- Increase cooling density by 50 percent and reliability by at least 200 percent
- Meet environmental objectives by cutting refrigerant leakage by 90 percent.
These goals have been addressed with the new units, which are based on variable speed, economized two-stage compressors with oil-free magnetic bearings and high-speed permanent magnet motors. For many years, YORK® Navy Systems has partnered with American industries, and did so on this project with Fairmont Automation, Calnetix and Mezzo Technologies for the automation, power electronics-magnetic bearings and micro-tube heat exchangers.
“By replacing a number of mechanical parts in current chillers with variable speed, magnetic systems and advanced automation, we will have new units capable of meeting the Navy’s challenges well into the 21st century while providing cost, space, weight, power and environmental benefits,” said Steve Remington, general manager, YORK® Navy Systems.
Testing of the first of the new high-efficiency compressor has demonstrated that all of the Navy’s aggressive goals will be achieved. The compressors are slated for new ship design and construction. The compressor has also been designed as a retrofit option to improve the performance and energy usage of more than 200 chillers already in fleet use. YORK is expected to commence construction of production units in 2014 with the first ship installation scheduled for 2016.
About Johnson Controls
Johnson Controls is a global diversified technology and industrial leader serving customers in more than 150 countries. Our 168,000 employees create quality products, services and solutions to optimize energy and operational efficiencies of buildings; lead-acid automotive batteries and advanced batteries for hybrid and electric vehicles; and interior systems for automobiles. Our commitment to sustainability dates back to our roots in 1885, with the invention of the first electric room thermostat. Through our growth strategies and by increasing market share we are committed to delivering value to shareholders and making our customers successful. In 2011, Corporate Responsibility Magazine recognized Johnson Controls as the #14 company in its annual “100 Best Corporate Citizens” list. For additional information, please visit http://www.johnsoncontrols.com
Contact:
Sarah Zwicky
Johnson Controls
414-524-6916