International. Carrier reported that it has added new i-Vu smart valves to the set of components available for the i-Vu building automation system, making it even easier to maintain occupant comfort, optimize energy use, and resolve issues faster.
Smart valves give operators access to valve performance data from anywhere at any time, as well as rapid error detection with built-in fault detection and diagnosis.
The new i-Vu smart valves were designed in collaboration with Belimo. They integrate seamlessly with the i-Vu building automation system, which automatically notifies operators if a valve has failed, jammed, is cycling or leaking.
"We are excited to add smart valves to our building automation system," said Mark Jones, commercial manager for Carrier Controls. "Through our relationship with Belimo, we can add this state-of-the-art valve technology to our i-Vu system; as such, customers will benefit from a single point of access to all of their building's assets, from HVAC equipment and controls, to sensors and valves. This real-time visibility will help them improve operational efficiency and keep occupants comfortable."
i-Vu smart valves are available for both pressure-dependent and pressure-independent applications. They feature a compact design for easy installation and the valve bodies fit directly into the actuator. This allows operators and technicians to install valves quickly, easily and without the use of tools, which helps reduce labor costs, and also makes adapting traditional valves a breeze. The valve actuator is capable of providing opening failure, closing failure or failure in the last position to meet the requirements of the project. The valves are also easy to commission. Up to two valves can be connected to the actuator subnet on each carrier terminal unit controller. Each valve is pre-directed and supports local or remote access via the i-Vu system. A field-adjustable maximum flow capacity setting helps technicians ensure that the necessary design requirements are met.
The new smart valves are more energy efficient than typical valves. They feature a patented brushless DC motor that works with just 0.3 W, maximizing energy savings. The actuator also uses 95% less energy than classic digital output actuators that require constant power, while a zero-leak ball valve design also eliminates energy loss.
The valves will initially begin to be marketed in the United States.
