Home | Business News | Browse by Publication | M | Mass Transit

Air conditioning update: changes in air conditioning units have proven to save money, the environment and still keep things cool and comfortable for passengers.

Article Excerpt
In 2010, new engines must comply with lower emissions standards. Engine manufacturers have added diesel particulate filters (DPF) to buses and R-22 refrigerant will be banned for use in new equipment.

[ILLUSTRATION OMITTED]

"In general, the trend has been toward roof-mounted units, and the 2010 emissions regulations, which require more equipment in the rear of the bus, are increasing the need for these systems," says Fil MacNeil, Systems Group Leader for New Flyer Industries.

"Roof-mounted units provide many benefits: better weight balance for improved ride quality, lower noise levels for passenger comfort and the additional real estate on the roof provides more flexibility when deciding on the size and capacity of units."

Steve Johnson, bus HVAC product manager with Thermo King, says that while many are aware of these changes, they may not be aware that the configuration and location of the HVAC unit could be affected.

"In the United States, the most commonly used HVAC in the transit industry is mounted at the rear of the bus above the engine," he says. "As bus OEMs are forced to find space to accommodate the DPF, they are re-arranging the components in the rear of the bus. The available space for the traditional rear-mount HVAC unit is being reduced or...

View this article FREE - Now for a Limited Time, try Goliath Business News
Free for 3 Days!