New Laboratory Product Offers Sustainable Savings

A UK electronic airflow control and monitor manufacturer and consultant has created an integrated variable air volume (VAV) airflow and auto sash controller, offering industrial and educational laboratory customers the opportunity to reduce energy costs by up to 85%, while cutting carbon emissions and saving time.

Developed in response to a growing number of customer requests, Temperature Electronics Ltd’s (TEL) AFA4000 VAV Controller and Auto Sash Controller automatically adjusts airflow according to need, decreasing the volume of air extracted when laboratory fume cupboards are not in use, minimising energy consumption.

TEL’s own research has demonstrated that customers fitting its VAV controllers to their fume cupboards can reduce energy costs by up to 85%.

In addition to its VAV function, the unit may also be programmed to serve as an integrated auto sash controller, which automatically closes fume cupboards when there is no operator present, again promoting energy savings.

The combined unit is simpler and quicker to install and commission than separate VAV and auto sash controllers: only one unit needs to be fitted, and both VAV and auto sash functions may be calibrated from the same display.

The AFA4000 VAV Controller and Auto Sash Controller is already proving popular with customers across the globe, generating orders from several countries including the US and India.

Said TEL’s director, Richard Eady: “We’ve been working on this product for a long time and I think that is apparent to anyone who sees it. It combines environmental sustainability with ease of use, cost-effectiveness, elegant design and of course also the unparalleled reliability for which TEL has become known worldwide.”

The AFA4000 VAV Controller and Auto Sash Controller features a full-colour, intuitive interface that is easy to navigate and facilitates simple two-step calibration. It may be used with Modbus or BACnet protocol. A hot wire sensor ensures that the unit will not drift, guaranteeing stable readings over many years of operation. It offers full alarm diagnostics and test functionality, a 650 minute timeline of environmental conditions and is field software upgradable.

TEL has also launched an AFA4000 range of constant air volume (CAV) airflow monitors. The AFA4000/1 and 2 Airflow Monitors also offer optional auto sash integration, and the latter features a customisable push-button function.

TEL’s product range includes exhaust ventilation (LEV) monitors and volumetric controls as well as VAV systems and auto sash controllers. Established almost 50 years ago, TEL has unrivalled expertise in the airflow control and monitoring market. It works in partnership with fume cupboard manufacturers, contractors and users across the world, and its products are used in thousands of laboratories and industrial settings. TEL offers a full service provision, from design consultation, solution supply and installation, to training and technical backup.