Daikin launches new Compact L air handling unit range

Brussels, 02 October 2024 – Daikin is upgrading its air handling units (AHU) product portfolio by introducing advanced ventilation solutions tailored to the 'compact' market segment. As part of this strategy, Daikin is pleased to announce the launch of a new AHU range: Compact L.

The Daikin Compact L offers a decentralized ventilation solution ideal for offices, restaurants, schools, and light commercial applications. It is available in six sizes with capacities ranging from 150 to over 4000 cubic meters per hour. The Compact L range is also Eurovent certified.

Compact L has outstanding airflow management, operating in either Constant Air Volume (CAV) or Variable Air Volume (VAV) modes, and can be installed in a false ceiling. This installation not only isolates the unit to reduce noise, making it ideal for quiet environments such as schools and offices, but also saves valuable floor space reducing the unit footprint, which is essential for aesthetically sensitive spaces such as restaurants and shops. In addition, low noise level can be further achieved by 50 mm thick mineral wool panel insulation and the available silencer option.

Reason #1: Compactness

Designed at an extremely low height, ranging from just 280mm for Size 02 to 500mm for Size 07, it is suitable for the most limited spaces and an excellent choice for projects where a compact unit is required. The height of the Compact L is optimized to facilitate installation in false ceilings and offers both right and left connection configurations, making it an ideal solution where there are installation constraints. Additionally, this dual handing configuration on both sides allows for better management of the unit's ducting.

Reason #2: Additional filter for  better Indoor Air Quality (IAQ)

By adding pre-filters, two stages of filtration are provided on both the supply and return sides. This second level of filtration ensures superior Indoor Air Quality, achieving a filtration level of up to ePM1 50% (F7) and ePM1 80% (F9) on the supply side. This helps to make the air cleaner and healthier, as well as improving overall occupant comfort.

Reason #3: Unique constructional features

The Premium Counterflow Heat Exchanger allows both the air drawn in from outside and the air recirculated from inside to pass through, while keeping the two airflows separate. . The exchanger is designed to prevent mixing, yet still allows heat transfer. This feature is critical in preventing the contamination of indoor air by outdoor air, thereby reducing costs, and improving the overall energy efficiency of the HVAC system. The modulating by-pass damper ensures accurate control over the heat recovery effect. All these features are particularly convenient for designer, as they help to reduce costs while increasing efficiency.

Reason #4: Adaptability & scalability

This unit can meet different project requirements thanks to the wide range of accessories, which can be selected according to specific needs, making it highly adaptable to project specifications. Available accessories include silencers to reduce the noise level emitted by the machine in environments where lower noise is required. The droplet eliminator extends the operating range when a cooling coil is installed. Flexible joints help to prevent problems and breakage caused by vibration over time. External dampers with spring return actuators may be required for installations with an R32 DX coil to comply with IEC60335-2-40 ed. 7 standards. Finally, the frost switch protects the water coils from potential damage caused by freezing in the case of colder environments.

With six sizes available, depending on the characteristics of the installation, a wide range of application requirements can be met. Various design options, such as integrating hydronic coils for applied systems or using DX coils for direct expansion systems, further enhance this adaptability. Accessibility can be easier with the "door rails" accessory, while in the standard version, the doors open downwards with a double door mechanism.

This unit can be installed in different systems, including hydronic and direct expansion (DX) systems.

In both cases, Daikin can provide a complete and fully integrated solution using Daikin components. For example, the Compact L series can be configured with ventilation connected to a hydronic coil, as in the case of applied systems with a chiller or a heat pump. Connection with a Daikin DX condensing unit is also possible by integrating a DX coil onto the Compact L. This allows Daikin to offer a complete package solution regardless of the type of system chosen. For DX systems using R32 refrigerant, Daikin can also supply an additional accessory: external dampers with a spring return actuator to comply with the IEC60335-2-40 ed. 7 standard.

Reason #5: Certified design

This range features a Eurovent certification for the AHU programme, ensuring casing performance and quality. Moreover, Compact L is compliant with the hygienic standard VDI6022-1, for a high indoor air quality level. The Compact L is equipped with a counterflow plate heat exchanger that transfers heat between two airflows, allowing energy to be recovered from the exhaust air to preheat or precool the incoming fresh air, reducing overall energy consumption. Additionally, Compact L contributes to scoring points in several categories for the LEED, WELL and BREEAM green building protocols, resulting in benefits for occupants experiencing a healthier environment and owners looking for a higher property value.

Reason #6: Ensuring optimum performance by reducing operating costs

Compact L provides an efficient heat recovery with minimal acoustic and visual impact. Its smart integration of bypass and heating coil modes ensures highly efficient defrosting, eliminating energy waste. Additionally, the optional modulating electric heater or cooling/heating coil allows precise control of the flow temperature.  Indoor air quality can be improved by minimising energy loss thanks to an optional CO2 Sensor. Moreover, energy efficiency is further enhanced by EC inverter-driven centrifugal fans, which reduce running costs and energy consumption. This is particularly advantageous for the project owner.

Reason#7: Plug-and-play solution

For the installer, this solution is favourable because the unit range is pre-configured and pre-assembled, designed for easy installation and commissioning. It requires less installation time and technical support, reducing downtime. Once installed it is immediately ready for use and no further action is required, speeding up the commissioning process. This efficient and simplified installation reduces the likelihood of future problems, making maintenance easier and less frequent.