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Boost HVAC performance effortlessly: Smart VFDs for AHU and BMS

Monday, July 14, 2025

 

In the competitive landscape of HVAC systems, the need for evolving ever more intelligent, efficient, and user-friendly solutions is paramount. Recognizing this demand, Danfoss presents new features of VLT® HVAC Drive FC 102, that enhance the functionality of air handling units (AHU) and rooftop units (RTU), for simplicity in installation, operation, and energy efficiency in a Building Management System (BMS) concept.

Upgrade AHU control for enhanced efficiency and indoor comfort

Traditional HVAC solutions often involve a cumbersome split of responsibilities across components and suppliers, leading to minimal data exchange and operational insights. However, VLT® HVAC Drive FC 102 shifts the paradigm by incorporating edge computing, which seamlessly amalgamates intelligent control and operational data to optimize AHU and RTU performance.

In its roles as "Drive as Controller" or "Drive as Sensor Hub", the FC 102 premium variable frequency drive (VFD) boasts a wide array of intelligent features tailored to support optimal HVAC operations.

  • Built-in airflow and climate control mechanisms
  • Sophisticated sensors interaction for monitoring temperature, pressure, humidity, CO2 levels, and VOC Air quality
  • Precise airflow adjustment and customization based on actual demand

This is not only energy efficient but also provides good indoor comfort, to enhance the wellbeing of building occupants such as office staff.

Efficient AHU control and monitoring ensures timely filter replacement

The FC 102 continuously interacts with pressure sensors which deliver real-time data. The VFD uses this data to adjust the AHU ventilation fans to precisely match actual air flow demand from the building in real time. It generates significant energy savings and indicates the operational performance of the AHU Specific Fan Power (SFP) to document operation efficiency, in compliance with the EN16798 standard.

  • One drive can monitor up to 4 AHU filters simultaneously
  • The pressure sensor signals enable proactive condition monitoring of AHU filters, ensuring timely warning of filter replacement need, for optimal performance and reliable uptime, as a missing filter may pollute the air supply
  • The intelligence built into the drive means fewer external devices are required, reducing complexity and cost of system installation

Embrace connectivity and smart solutions, ready to support demands for the future

With a focus on connectivity and interactions in smart buildings, FC 102 introduces support for IoT, MQTT, and fieldbus technologies. Speaking all these languages, the drive facilitates seamless interaction with BMS and operational staff to secure optimal operation of the AHU, now and in future communication systems.

VLT® HVAC Drive FC 102 communicates seamlessly within the BMS to

  • Provide intelligent information on real application operation performance
  • Leverage intelligent algorithms to detect fluctuations in AHU energy consumption and operation performance in real-time 
  • Send early warnings of potential issues directly to staff, so they can act immediately

With these new features, FC 102 continues to stand out as a leading solution in the HVAC industry, combining innovation with reliability and efficiency to deliver optimal AHU performance. By focusing on connectivity and smart solutions, FC 102 ensures your building management systems experience a seamless transition to a more efficient and sustainable HVAC environment.

Discover FC 102

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