A common perception is if something’s made of metal, it must be more durable and stronger than its counterparts. The thing is, it’s just not always true – especially when it comes to the energy recovery wheel used in the HVAC system.
That’s because metal wheels are bulkier, less efficient, and more difficult to repair and maintain than their polymer counterparts. They are going to break down each issue and why it matters, when users are selecting the best energy recovery wheel for their needs.
Long-Term reliability
First, though, they want to call out the obvious. Hey, they’re just promoting their product instead of the other options.
Here’s a reason more of their polymer wheels are in the market than any other wheel
That’s not who they are. They developed – and continue to evolve – their polymer wheels because they win time and time again. But they also make aluminum wheels.
There’s a reason more of their polymer wheels are in the market than any other wheel because they provide the best long-term reliability and energy recovery performance. So, with that ‘this isn’t shameful marketing’ disclaimer out of the way. Let’s dive in.
Less energy recovery
Energy recovery wheels with a metal media may seem sturdy. But here’s the thing: They’re just not flexible, kind of like a boss from the ‘80s. That’s a problem. Why? Because any debris that gets into the HVAC system is likely to cause more damage to a metal wheel than its polymer counterpart.
When an object hits a metal wheel, the metal often is dented, which affects overall performance. That equates to less energy recovery and a less efficient wheel.
On the flip side, when something hits a polymer wheel, the media often can absorb the impact and return to its original shape. Of note, Airxchange polymer wheels are the only truly segmented wheels available. Therefore, if it’s damaged users can simply replace one part of the wheel rather than the entire thing.
Energy recovery wheels
They can use a smaller HVAC cabinet resulting in less material costs and less space needed
Think about it like this: Thirty years ago if users went hiking, they would need to lug their gear in a large backpack that used heavier materials for the frame. Users did that because they didn’t have a better option.
Like those packs and outdoor gear, energy recovery wheels have evolved. They’re now able to use lighter, better performing material to get the job done more efficiently. That’s significant for several reasons. Using polymer allows users to use a smaller wheel to do the same job as a larger metal wheel. They can use a smaller HVAC cabinet resulting in less material costs and less space needed for installation. Both have financial benefits.
Corrosion-Resistant stainless steel
Also, a lighter, smaller wheel that delivers the same performance as a larger one is more energy efficient. It requires less power to do the same thing. That means lower electrical bills in the facility – critical if they’re increasing ventilation to improve air quality.
Not only is polymer media incredibly durable, it’s also housed within a metal frame. Often, the perception is that when using the term ‘polymer energy recovery wheel,’ they’re referring to the media and the frame. At Airxchange, the frame is made using a corrosion-resistant stainless steel. This ensures the wheel maintains the structural integrity users demand but with the performance, efficiency and ease of use that comes with polymer.
