With today’s technological landscape evolving and adapting to increasingly rapid expansion, Patterson-Kelley (PK) wants to dive deep into our standard touch-screen boiler interface; the NURO®. Considering building integration, IoT Protocols, and increased competition within the user platform market, this three-part blog will demonstrate the advanced abilities of our revolutionary controller in its current state and what it has in store for the future.

Short cycling occurs when a boiler powers down before being able to complete a typical boiler cycle and is called upon to satisfy a second call for heat, in quick succession. A typical boiler cycle consists of firing, post purge, idle period, pre-purge and then back to firing. Boiler short cycling can be seen in two critical areas; mechanical and economic.

In this blog, we discuss how this affects the boiler and how we can mitigate short cycling and losses incurred from it.

The P-K STORM™, Patterson-Kelley’s newest contribution to the commercial boiler industry, has made its way to the market. The unit is designed to be efficient, cost-effective, durable and technologically superior than the competition. This 316L stainless-steel condensing boiler maximizes heating capacity during peak loads, while capitalizing on efficiencies.

The P-K STORM™ utilizes multiple channels in a helical coil orientation over an extended surface area. This feature allows for pressure drops as low as 4.3’ @ 40°F temperature differentials. This reduces the costs of operation and installation by requiring smaller pumps and applying less electrical energy. The efficiency of the P-K STORM™ also comes from its built-in 10:1 mechanical turndown. This means that the operating efficiency of the appliance at off-peak loads will exceed its rating of 97% thermal efficiency, putting the P-K STORM™ at the forefront of its class.

State-of-the-art cabinet and heat exchanger design offer unparalleled serviceability for maintenance, in addition to reduction in cost for installation and operation. Through Patterson-Kelley’s combustion intake design, entry into the heat exchanger happens in a matter of minutes, instead of a matter of hours. The heat exchanger door swivels open to provide full access to the heat exchanger tubes and burner inside the unit. In doing so, this makes routine maintenance on the appliance not only simple, but cost-effective.

The first wave of P-K STORM™ products are offered in four sizes: 1250, 1500, 1750 and 2000mbtu. Outdoor technology is available as an option on all models, allowing for greater flexibility in placement of the equipment. Every model comes standard with our NURO® Touch Screen Control System for seamless boiler operation. NURO® Connectivity provides seamless visibility to the boiler functions, available to monitor and adjust your facility system at the touch of a screen.

Is there a STORM in your forecast?

Eventually, all commercial heating systems need to be replaced – and whether you replace one unit, or five, it will require a significant investment in time and money.  In upgrading your system with the latest technology can offer in condensing equipment, high system efficiency, building management and connectivity, the cost to retrofit your boiler room can escalate quickly.

Hydronic Boilers Piping Arrangements

Just like we would debate over sports, music, or politics, engineers have long held strong opinions about piping arrangements for hydronic heating systems.  Which is better:  Primary-Secondary or Variable Primary?  They each have their benefits, but most boiler manufacturers tend to side with Primary-Secondary.  Wouldn’t it be nice to have a different choice?

 The 2019 AHR Expo was as successful as ever for Patterson-Kelley. The P-K team was able to make new connections, unveil new technology and reconnect with representatives, contractors and consulting engineers. The event welcomed over 65,000 HVAC/R professionals to the World Congress Center in Atlanta, GA, between January 14^th and January 16^th.  Patterson-Kelley presented its commercial boilers and water heaters, as well as its fresh look; the P-K logo signaling over a city skyline, asking for on-lookers to “Answer the Call.”

Commercial Boiler Efficiency

Placing system efficiency at the forefront of commercial boiler acquisition continues to be a trend in the heating and water heating industry. Manufacturers are racing ahead to push the limits of technology by offering aggressive turndown capabilities approaching, and even exceeding 20:1, at the detriment of system efficiency. 

Stainless Steel Heat Exchangers

Stainless steel has increased in popularity over time due to its success in a number of different environments and applications. Stainless steel commercial boilers have proven to be reliable and efficient in both retrofit projects and new installations.  

If you are curious to learn why stainless steel has gained popularity in the heating industry, Patterson-Kelley has compiled a list for you that includes the top three benefits of owning a stainless steel commercial boiler.

Changing the Perception of Aluminum Commercial Boilers

The commercial heating industry has faced an ongoing debate on the benefits of stainless steel heat exchangers versus aluminum heat exchangers. The process of choosing a new boiler has become confusing for both building owners and engineers. 

Examining Direct Fired Water Heaters

It comes as no surprise that technological advances in the water heating industry have allowed manufacturers to develop highly efficient commercial boilers that provide well rounded heating comfort. Utilizing commercial boiler platforms to produce both building heat and domestic hot water has become a trend in the industry, but what does this  mean for the commercial units?