Protecting Refrigerant Lines in Style
Inaba Denko America Helps Protect Refrigerant Lines in Style.
The Challenge:
The occupancy rate of a 300-unit residence hall built in 2013 at the University of Hawaii at Hilo (UH-Hilo) have fluctuated since the dormitory opened. Even though the dormitory is located directly across from the main campus entrance, occupancy rates have been inconsistent. One of the concerns presented by the students was the temperature in the rooms. In order to address such concern, UH-Hilo started to look for air conditioning options that could cover all the bedrooms and two ground floor lounge areas.
The Solution:
After weighing the options available, the University decided that installing a VRF system is the best solution. This would better align with their energy efficiency, sustainability efforts and the Slimduct RD from Inaba Denko America would help protect the refrigerant lines in style.
The Project:
In mid-2019 a project to provide environmental control to the whole building was set in motion. The plan included the installation of 50 three-ton Mitsubishi condensers to be connected to 6 half-ton wall units.
The VRF system installation requires multiple lines. In order to maintain efficiency and avoid damages caused by weather, pests, and vandalism, these lines should be protected. The project engineer specified the use of Slimduct RD Lineset Covers to not only protect them, but protect the refrigerant lines in style.
Why Slimduct RD from Inaba Denko America?
Currently protecting hundreds of VRV/VRF lineset installations around the world, Slimduct RD is a cost-effective and labor-saving way to enclose and protect exposed lineset layouts. Slimduct RD features a proprietary anti-corrosive, scratch-resistant, hot-dipped and chromium-free coating made of zinc, aluminum and magnesium, which provides a more durable alternative to galvanized steel.
“The Slimduct RD is much higher quality than the cover we have fabricated in the past using sheet metal. It is also faster to install.” said Rick Blackwell from Big Island Air Conditioning. “This is a durable long-lasting product, it has Unistrut built into it to support the pipes.” he added.
The RD cover was used to conceal the piping on the exterior wall connecting to the wall units. To direct the refrigerant flow to each designated zone, 50 vertical runs that covered 3 floors were installed. Each used 4 full lengths, one 30” fitting, an end cap at the top and another at the bottom.
The multiple fittings available and the ability to install the Slimduct RD covers in any orientation, allowed for a trouble-free installation.
Slimduct RD Benefits:
Slimduct RD features a proprietary anti-corrosive, scratch-resistant, hot-dipped and chromium-free coating made of zinc, aluminum and magnesium, which provides
a more durable alternative to galvanized steel. Since the Slimduct RD is resistant to sea air, we are confident that the covers will continue to protect the lines for many years to come.
- Protects the linesets from mechanical and weather damage
- Preserves the energy efficiency of the air conditioning system
- Multiple fittings available for easy on-site customization
- Scratch and abrasion resistant
- Optional anti-slip Walkway surface allows workers to walk on the cover for easy access and maintenance
- Compact design uses less space than conventional racking systems
- Professional and stylish finish
- Enhances the appearance of the entire installatio
Project Info
- Location: Hilo, HI
- Building type: University
- Project type: Existing building
- Year constructed: 2013
- Number of floors: 3
- Manufacturer of VRV/VRF equipment: Mitsubishi
- Mechanical contractor: Big Island Air Conditioning
