The Hybrid VRF® uses Mitsubishi Electric’s proprietary Hybrid Branch Circuit Controller (HBC). The HBC reportedly enables Hybrid VRF to provide heat recovery for simultaneous heating and cooling while keeping indoor piping refrigerant-free and reducing the system’s overall refrigerant charge. (Photo: Business Wire)

Mitsubishi Electric Trane HVAC US has introduced a new two-pipe hybrid variable refrigerant flow zoning system.

SUWANEE, Ga.—A two-pipe Variable Refrigerant Flow (VRF) zoning system developed by Mitsubishi Electric Trane HVAC US LLC (METUS) is designed to use water instead of refrigerant in indoor spaces, the company said in a release. Mitsubishi Electric Trane HVAC US is a major supplier of all-climate Ductless and Ducted Mini-split and VRF heat-pump and air-conditioning systems.

The Hybrid VRF® is described as a cutting-edge two-pipe VRF zoning system that exchanges heat between refrigerant and water using Mitsubishi Electric’s proprietary Hybrid Branch Circuit Controller (HBC). The HBC enables Hybrid VRF to provide heat recovery for simultaneous heating and cooling while keeping indoor piping refrigerant-free and reducing the system’s overall refrigerant charge, the company said.

Hybrid VRF is said to facilitate a uniform installation approach, as it is compatible with CITY MULTI® N-Generation outdoor units and L-Generation water-source units.

“Hybrid VRF is a breakthrough technology that incorporates the efficiency and heat recovery benefits of a VRF system with the additional comfort and control of a 4-pipe chiller system by utilizing hydronic indoor units,” said James DeBerry, manager, commercial marketing, Mitsubishi Electric Trane HVAC US LLC, in the release. “As building owners, engineers, and architects consider new refrigerant regulations and design challenges attributed to ASHRAE 15, Hybrid VRF is a possible all-electric zoned comfort solution.

“The technology uses water for heat transfer at indoor units and provides simultaneous heating and cooling,” DeBerry added. “We believe that Hybrid VRF is scalable and suitable for many building applications, even in low ambient conditions.”

According to the manufacturer, Hybrid VRF can be tailored to fit various applications with specific zoning requirements, such as hotels, offices, hospitals, multi-family, schools, dorms, and senior living facilities. Local remote controllers can individually control each designated indoor unit to provide better overall occupant comfort for individual settings.

The Hybrid VRF system also features a Main Hybrid Branch Circuit Controller (HBC), which exchanges heat between refrigerant and water. Conditioned water is pumped to the individual zone, eliminating refrigerant in the indoor spaces and reducing the overall system refrigerant charge, the company said.

Mitsubishi Electric Trane HVAC US is a joint venture between Trane Technologies plc and Mitsubishi Electric US, Inc. The company said it provides innovative products and systems that are capable of heating and cooling a broad range of applications, from a home to a large commercial building, with superior efficiency, comfort, and control.