FRONT COVER SPOTLIGHT 11
Representation of PCM
Cut away model of Cool-phase
The material is supplied as a slurry, so the PCM can be stored more readily and used when required. In the Cool-phase application it consists of a wax held within a robust polymer shell. This has an extremely large storage capacity (a 1cm thick layer of PCM is equivalent to a 15cm thick layer of concrete). The same technology can also be used to provide thermal mass in buildings. For example, by applying a layer of PCM to plasterboard, a metal-frame building can achieve the same thermal mass as a building constructed using traditional masonry techniques.
How is Monodraught putting PCM to work? Cool-phase operates, fully automatically, under three conditions: fresh air, cooling and heat recovery. Under cooling conditions PCM is used to absorb heat from the air. In heat recovery mode it tempers incoming fresh air. Depending on operating conditions, the system will try to increase or decrease the temperature of the air using energy taken from the surrounding environment. However, an integrated CO2
sensor is able to automatically
provide fresh air therefore continuously maintaining excellent indoor air quality.
In cooling mode, cold night time air is used to charge the PCM typically between 10pm and 6am. An increased flow rate from the fans draws cold air across the heat exchangers cooling the PCM, which is then
stored in an insulated tank. During the daytime, the system draws fresh air into the space until the external temperature rises, when an external damper is closed and air is recirculated within the space. PCM is then pumped back through the system and air passing through the heat exchangers is cooled. Inversely, under heat recovery mode, the PCM is pumped through the system at end of the working day, absorbing the potentially wasted heat from the space, which tempers incoming fresh air the following day.
What are the differences between Cool- phase and AC?
It is generally acknowledged that air- conditioning has a number of detrimental effects on the environment, the major factor being the power consumption required to operate. Typically AC requires kilowatts of power to run. Refrigerants used are extremely hazardous to the environment. Older types of refrigerants deplete the ozone layer and contribute to global warming, and even newer HFC’s have over 1000 times the global warming potential of CO2
.
Air-conditioning in itself is a misnomer because typically, no conditioning of the air is provided! Instead occupants are forced to
breathe re-circulated air which is mechanically dried and then chilled before being pushed back into the area ready for the occupants to breathe again. Cool-phase however, provides fresh air and, with its inbuilt CO2
control, will
maintain air quality at all times, providing low CO2
levels that are proven to improve concentration and well being.
The advantages of Cool-phase are its:- • Low power consumption - of approximately 40W
• Its recyclability – The PCM is simply composted at the end of its life
• Health benefits – fresh air is the driving force.
The next stage… True zero carbon cooling and heat recovery
Cool-phase was designed from the outset to run on DC power; and although only a small amount is required it is still powered by mains electricity. Monodraught is therefore developing a solar powered version, creating a true zero-carbon product for both commercial and domestic markets.
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