THE resurgence in popularity of rooftop units in the commercial environment, allied to a need to replace the tens of thousands of old units out there running on R22, has led to increasing sales of this type of unit.
Nationwide there are hundreds of units still operating that were installed over 20 years ago. These units, although running smoothly contain old technology and consume a high level of energy, increasing the running costs to the building owner or occupant, they also suffer from structural progressive corrosion.

Carrier has designed new systems that incorporate advanced components designed specifically to maximise energy efficiency. These systems are designed to replace the old systems exactly, in terms of their physical dimensions and duties. The replacement of the new system is easy and cost effective as the roof curb for the old system can be used for the new unit.

Following the closure of its rooftop plants in Guadalajara Spain in the 90s, Carrier transferred production to Turkey, to the factory of its then new joint venture partner Alarko. The deal with Alarko, one of Turkey’s leading hvac manufacturers, was signed in 1998, giving Carrier access to a comparatively cheap production base, while Alarko saw the benefits of being part of an international brand with increased exports and access to the latest technology.

The tie up with Carrier has had its effects on Alarko’s export figures, although still only accounting for 18% of its total production, this is up from just 4% six years ago. Prestigious contracts throughout Turkey are supplemented by a lot of work in Russia and Eastern Europe. Turnover was $180m 2006, which is expected to rise to $200m this year.

International recognition

Alarko was formed in 1954, operating in hvac manufacturing, contracting, land development/real estate, power generation, tourism and seafood sectors.

The company was formerly a McQuay distributor, before that Trane. After public listing, the company realised being part of an international brand would be a advantage through increased exports and access to increased technology. Carrier had all of these attributes as well as a knowledge of modern production techniques and just-in-time procedures.

Alarko is home to the manufacture of the 50AZ/UZ R407C rooftop units and the 50DB/EA replacement units. The latter come in five sizes, 70kW-150kW cooling only and 70-85kW heat pump. These units are specifically designed to replace the older Carrier 50DD and 50DF models. They have the same footprint enabling easy replacement on-site and the duct work matches exactly to the existing models. They operate on R407C refrigerant and contain improved components including; compressors, two speed outdoor fans and high efficiency supply fan motors. With the addition of the electric heater or low pressure hot water.

On average these new units are 15-20% more efficient than the models they replace.

New test lab

Alarko’s Gebze factory covers 37,000m2, of which 20,000m2 is factory. This is soon to be supplemented with the addition of a $1m psychrometric test facility

This investment has been brought about by increasing demands on Carrier’s Montluel and Syracuse test facilities. The new lab will incorporate two rooms simulating indoor and outdoor conditions.