Leading consultants and engineers were given an insight into the latest developments in air conditioning technology at a recent event hosted by Toshiba at its Plymouth facility.

It included a tour of the company’s European development support centre, which is equipped with R&D and test facilities for new air conditioning technology and controls.

The event, organised by Wayne Dolley, Toshiba’s South West Regional Sales Manager, was attended by representatives from three leading consultants, AECOM, Hoare Lea and BME, all based in Plymouth, and from building services specialist Totus Engineering.

The programme covered how to speed up project design using Toshiba’s new web-based equipment selection and technical support tools. These include a SEER / SCOP calculation package, a refrigerant charge app, and fault code identification software.

Those attending received credits for Continuing Professional Development (CPD) for undertaking Toshiba’s CIBSE-approved modules on BREEAM and  EN378 Compliance, and VRF Design and Selection.

Ivor Oatway, Senior Engineer at Building Mechanical Electrical Ltd (BME), said: “Toshiba is doing some pioneering work on the technology front, particularly with its refrigerant management and containment system. They have also identified market requirements - such as over-door heaters for VRF systems - that few manufactures are able to offer. 

“I can see how holding Europe-wide spares in Plymouth is not only great for local contractors, able to collect spares the same day, but nationally with next day delivery also.” 

He added: “Overall, it was excellent day, and provided an opportunity not only to see behind the scenes at a leading manufacturer, but update our own skills and knowledge.  It is always good to keep abreast of current thinking and developments in the pipeline.”