While the plasma field is contained within the duct-
work, the ions travel throughout the home with the
airstream. The ions, constantly “looking” to become
de-ionized, will either steal or add an electron to other
particles with which they come in contact. For example, a
negatively charged ion will pull an electron from a mold
spore, killing it. In this manner, CPG also kills viruses
and bacteria.
Similarly, a CPG system will destroy scent molecules
and VOCs. As these impurities pass through the plasma
field, they’re broken down into simple molecules, such as
hydrogen, nitrogen and oxygen.
Conventional particulate filtration is also increased
because the charged ions draw microscopic particles
together, growing until large enough to be captured by
filter media.
Retrofit ready
Unlike UV and photocatalytic systems, very few
manufacturers offer CPG systems. Phenomenal Air,
out of Indian Trail, NC, offers three different CPG ion
generators. Rated for applications up to 6,000 CFM,
the Series R unit fits most residential applications
and installs very quickly. The low-voltage generator
is about the size of a softball, with two CPG legs, or
“anode brushes.”
The generator is mounted on the outside of the ductwork
or air handler while the anode brushes protrude
into the airstream. The generator can be wired either
direct to air handler contacts or through a 24v transformer.
For commercial installations up to 10,000 Cubic
Feet per Minute (CFM), Phenomenal Aire’s Series C
generator is very similar to the Series R unit.
The units should be installed downstream of filtration
media. In front of the evaporator coil is the ideal
location although the CPG system is still effective after
the coil or even at supply air discharge remotely.
Ductless and Variable Refrigerant Flow (VRF) applications
are compatible, as well, with Phenomenal
Aire’s Series D generator. This small unit is placed
on the return air side of a wall-hung or cassette unit,
and provides air purification for up to 2,000 Cubic
Feet per Minute.
No detectable ozone is created by any of Phenomenal
Aire’s CPG systems, eliminating the health concerns
that some IAQ systems pose. Installation and
maintenance is fast and simple. There are no parts
to replace and the anode brushes should simply be
wiped off during annual maintenance.
The residential IAQ market is growing quickly. It’s
a 24-7 product, meaning that the shoulder seasons
are as good a time as any to sell equipment. The
mechanical firms that have learned to sell the systems
effectively have benefitted. As IAQ challenges
evolve, the technology used to handle it must evolve
as well. ICM
10 ICM/November/December 2017