Introducing the DST P070 pressure sensor – a compact, reliable solution for the HVAC industry
As the latest in the DST series of durable, compact pressure sensors from Danfoss Sensing Solutions, the DST P070 offers a range of features ideally suited for heat pump installations.
Heat pumps play a central role in our transition away from fossil fuel-driven HVAC systems. For example, the REPowerEU targets require that the amount of newly installed heat pumps double every four years, meaning we will need 60 million more heat pumps installed by 2030. Yet, HVAC system builders often struggle to find sensors compact and lightweight enough to satisfy smaller system requirements. The DST P070 addresses this challenge by offering reliable pressure sensing technology in a compact design.
The pressure sensor features backside MEMS technology which enabled its value, size and weight to be optimal for HVAC applications. The compact bi-metal pressure connection offers the best fit in applications with small and narrow spaces, such as heat pumps, chillers, residential and transport air conditioning units and food service refrigeration.
The DST P070 offers the shortest solder tube length on the market, a small body sensor and a single-brazing point, all designed to make it easier for installers to work within the space constraints in heat pump installations. And because of the sensor’s lightweight design, there’s practically no need for vibration support, which makes for a simple, effortless setup.
Simplifying the installation process
In addition to offering the best fit in narrow installation spaces, the bi-metal solder tube also provides several installation benefits. “When you have a pressure sensor with copper solder tubes, you need cooling protection for the sensor during the soldering process. In the DST P070, the pressure connection is made of copper and stainless steel which, in addition to being durable, can eliminate the need for cooling protection during installation. This shortens installation time and makes the entire process easier for the installer.”
The bi-metal solder tube also features superior welds to the housing and precision brazing to the pipe. It also has a lower heat transfer than copper or brass, which protects system components and extends the sensor’s lifetime.
Fully compatible with low-GWP refrigerants
In keeping with the company’s commitment to supporting the HVAC industry through the refrigerant transition, the Danfoss Sensing Solutions team tested the DST P070 across a wide range of refrigerants and oils to ensure its compatibility with A1, A2L and A3 refrigerants.“We have validated that the DST P070 works with R290, the main heat pump refrigerant, and it’s compatible with the aggressive R1234ze refrigerant as well,” says Iro.
The sensor also features the company’s patented sealing technology, ensuring hermetical tightness, and has undergone a series of validation and tightness control tests to confirm it can withstand helium leakage, overpressure, thermal stress and aging, vibration and a combination of temperature and vibration exposure. Test results have been validated by an external laboratory and the DST P070 is ISO 14903 design tested and ATEX Zone 2 & HazLoc compliant.
Guaranteeing shorter lead times and supply chain integrity
To meet the increasing demand for heat pumps, OEMs need a reliable supplier who can deliver system components on time. “Our customers tell us that they’re looking for global suppliers that can provide high-quality products and round-the-clock support. To accommodate this, we’ve expanded our production footprint and hence created a new, high-volume, fully automated production line in Minden, Germany. This line will enable us to offer our customers shorter lead times, so they receive orders swiftly and efficiently.” The production facility sources 70% of its materials from within the EU and offers full traceability on parts and process data. The site is also ISO 14001, ISO 9001, and IATF 16949 compliant and fully aligned with the company’s ESG commitment. “As is the case with many of our customers, Danfoss is committed to reducing our carbon footprint. In line with these goals, our facility in Minden is on track to be carbon neutral by 2030.”
Putting sustainability first – from production to packaging
Sustainability has also played a significant role in the entire DST P070 production process, from manufacturing to packaging. “The sensor contains more than 50% recycled stainless steel and it has a lower total carbon footprint, thanks to its compact design and use of fewer materials,” Katharina explains. “We’ve developed a unique pulp tray packaging, which reduces our CO2 emissions by 50% and transport volume. Yet the design offers the same strength and durability to protect sensors during transport.”
The combination of a simplified installation process, proven quality, low-GWP refrigerant compatibility and ESG-compliance add up to a pressure sensor that equips OEMs to meet market demand, industry regulations and internal sustainability requirements. “In the DST P070, OEMs get a pressure sensor designed to work with heat pumps, chillers and other HVAC applications – one that meets the highest quality standards and that is readily available. And with our end-to-end commitment to sustainable manufacturing, we can offer a component that helps our customers work towards a carbon-neutral future,” concludes Iro.
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