Product News

RIDGID®, a part of Emerson’s professional tools portfolio, announced their participation in the WWETT Show, Jan. 25 – 27, in Indianapolis. This year’s in-booth experience will include demos of their latest underground and pressing technology solutions, the opportunity to network with other pros during an exclusive show meetup and the first chance to enter to win a spot at the 2024 RIDGID Experience.

“RIDGID is taking cleaning, inspecting and patching to the next level and our team can’t wait to meet with the plumbers and drain cleaning professionals at WWETT to share our latest solutions,” said Jeff Albertini, marketing director, plumbing and mechanical, RIDGID. “We also can’t wait to host an exclusive in-booth meet up for industry pros to connect with each other and to offer the possibility of winning a new K9-204+ FlexShaft Machine.”

RIDGID invited tradespeople to stop by the RIDGID booth to experience their innovative drain cleaning, inspection, pipe rehabilitation, and pressing tools, including these latest solutions:

• NEW: FlexShaft® KM-1004 Milling Machine – This new innovative milling machine provides heavy-duty milling and a wall-to-wall clean on 1 ¼ to 4-inch pipe up to 80 feet with unmatched efficiency. With cordless freedom, plug-in capability, first ever cable counter, and best-in-class durability, the FlexShaft KM-1004 Milling Machine allows users to adapt to tough jobsite conditions and makes in-field serviceability effortless.
• NEW: K9-204+ FlexShaft Machine – This upgraded version of the K9-204 FlexShaft Drain Cleaning Machine has latches around the perimeter to provide easy access to the inside of the machine, an improved cable clamp for increased cable protection, and on-board hex key storage. The K9-204+ can be used on 2 to 4-inch pipe and includes 70 feet of 5/16-inch cable. A full range of chain knockers and accessories are available.
• RIDGID Pipe Patching System – An all-inclusive, start-to-finish solution for faster and simpler trenchless repairs, the Pipe Patching System is the most versatile system on the market, offering more types of repairs with less materials and equipment. Featuring a durable fiberglass patch, it is ideal for repairing small sections of damaged pipe in residential, commercial, and industrial settings.
• SeeSnake® Mini Pro Inspection Camera with TruSense Technology – The first reel of its kind to provide digital self-leveling without mechanical rotation, the small, yet rugged Mini Pro is designed to inspect up to 200 feet of 1 ½ to 8-inch pipe with its mid-flex push cable that can navigate hard 90-degree bends. Its innovative 25 mm digital self-leveling camera head always keeps the in-pipe image upright and, when
  paired with a TruSense enabled monitor, the Mini Pro delivers the industry’s best in-pipe image with superior clarity, detail and fewer blown-out areas and sections of the pipe that are too dark to see.
• K-4310 FXP™ Drum Machine – The K-4310 features an industry-first cable counter that provides real-time, in-pipe cable distance in 3 to 10-inch lines for faster locating and diagnostics. Ideal for residential and commercial plumbing and drain cleaning projects, its powerful brushless DC motor spins at 230 RPM allowing you to tackle tough jobs with less required maintenance. The battery-powered K-4310 is also the newest addition to the FXP Technology Platform, delivering cordless freedom and powerful performance.

Other RIDGID drain cleaning, diagnostic, and press tools will also be available for demo including sectional machines, drum machines, jetters, SeeSnake® camera systems and locators.

Along with product demos, RIDGID had several other booth experiences, including hosting a booth meetup where they will gave away a K9-204+ FlexShaft Machine. Additionally, the first day of the show kicked off the RIDGID Experience 2024 and the RIDGID WWETT booth was the first opportunity for attendees to enter for their chance to win a spot on the seventh annual, all-expenses-paid trip to RIDGID headquarters. Throughout the show, attendees scanned their badge to enter to win one of three K9-102 FlexShaft Machines.

RIDGID also took their social followers to WWETT virtually on their social channels and with drain cleaning professionals Evan Berns (@re.plumb) and Nick Parlet (@plumbingsk8r) who will shared their WWETT show experience on their social media channels too.

To learn more about RIDGID purpose-built tools they had at WWETT, contact your local distributor or visit RIDGID.com.

Expanded Water Solutions Portfolio at AHR Expo 2024 Underscores LG’s Commitment to Providing Solutions that Maximize Efficiency and Promote Decarbonization

LG Air Conditioning Technologies USA is expanding its line of cutting-edge heat-pump-enabled HVAC water products at AHR Expo 2024. LG’s growing assortment of water solutions highlights the company’s dedication to delivering products that redefine comfort, prioritize energy efficiency and champion sustainability for residential and commercial applications.

Featured at AHR Expo 2024, the LG R32 Air-to-Water Heat Pump Monobloc system is the latest addition to the company’s water heating product lineup. This all-in-one unit provides ease of installation by seamlessly integrating indoor and hydronic components, using water pipes to eliminate the need for refrigerant piping. Powered by LG’s advanced heat pump technology, the R32 Air-to-Water Heat Pump Monobloc efficiently produces hot water for various applications, including space heating (baseboard heating, radiator, radiant floor) and domestic hot water. Incorporated noise reduction technology, such as an encapsulated compressor and vibration decoupling, operates at audio levels as low as 49B at a 1m distance.

LG’s R32 Air-to-Water Heat Pump Monobloc is engineered for year-round comfort, operating within versatile leaving water temperature ranges, covering cooling (41 to 80.6°F), heating (59 to 149°F), and domestic hot water (59-176°F) with a third-party booster heater. The unit maintains 100 percent heating capacity, even at 5°F outdoor temperature, with leaving temperature at 131°F, providing optimal performance in colder conditions. The product sets a new standard in HVAC innovation with reduced defrost cycles, extended operation time and intervals, providing a transformative experience in climate control for residential and light commercial spaces.

In addition to the LG R32 Air-to-Water Heat Pump Monobloc, LG maintains a robust lineup of advanced water solutions that exceed expectations in eco-conscious practices and technology. Developed to meet the evolving demand for electric alternatives, LG’s water products specifically prioritize efficiency, offering cost savings through reduced energy consumption, streamlined performance, and enhanced comfort by optimizing heat and cooling retention and distribution.

“As the landscape of commercial and residential spaces undergoes a dynamic shift, LG’s HVAC solutions keep pace with the industry’s demand for quieter, more intuitive, and more eco-conscious options,” said Steve Scarbrough, senior vice president and general manager, LG Air Conditioning Technologies USA. “Embracing electrification, LG remains committed to delivering a vibrant array of products, ensuring cleaner and more efficient heating and cooling experiences. Anticipating the spotlight at AHR Expo 2024, we are excited to showcase our high-performing HVAC products, embodying innovation and setting the stage for a new era of excellence in the industry.”

Visitors at AHR Expo 2024 can explore additional hydronic solutions from LG, further emphasizing the brand’s commitment to advancing HVAC technology for a sustainable and comfortable future. Additional hydronic show products include:

LG Inverter Heat Pump Water Heater

LG’s Inverter Heat Pump Water Heater emerges as a highly energy-efficient alternative to conventional water heaters, achieving an efficiency rating of up to UEF 3.93, surpassing ENERGY STAR^® certification requirements. With potential energy savings of up to 76 percent compared to conventional electric heaters, the Inverter Heat Pump Water Heater, now available in 58- and 80-gallon capacities, minimizes reliance on supplemental electric resistance heat. Utilizing LG’s inverter heat pump technology and a Dual Inverter Compressor, it offers faster heating time in Turbo Mode and operates quietly. Aligned with U.S. Environmental Protection Agency standards, this water heater addresses the rising interest in electric alternatives amid efforts to promote environmental sustainability. Complete with LG ThinQ^® technology, Wi-Fi capability, and smartphone control, it provides users with a unique and efficient solution.

LG High Temperature Hydro Kit

Also on display is the award-winning LG High Temperature Hydro Kit system. This system uses a refrigerant-to-water heat exchanger to produce chilled or heated water. The High Temperature Hydro Kit can be used to preheat domestic water stored in an indirect storage tank, snow melt, in-floor or other radiant heating systems. This system can be used in conjunction with the Single Phase or Three-phase Multi V^TM Heat Pump or Heat Recovery outdoor units. The LG High Temperature Hydro Kit can deliver hot water up to 176° F.  The kit’s controllers allow flexible temperature management, and its compact design helps ease installation.

Engineers, contractors, distributors, and various trade professionals attending the world’s largest HVAC trade show can experience the latest air conditioning technologies and award-winning products and controls. Find comprehensive details about LG’s air conditioning systems portfolio at lghvac.com.

EVAPCO’s new PHW induced-draft parallel hybrid fluid cooler is designed to maximize heat rejection, allowing reduction of connected horsepower.  The CTI-certified PHW is designed as a compliment to EVAPCO’s ESW4, the company’s largest and most energy-efficient single cell evaporative cooler.

The PHW offers high-tonnage capacity and layout flexibility for industrial plants, data centers and large HVAC applications, especially where requirements call for fewest units, connections and fans.  Two box sizes are offered:  12 ft. x24 ft. and 14 ft. x 26 ft. Fan motor sizes are 30 hp to 100 hp., with two 7.5 HP pump motors per cell.

Hot process fluid enters the coil through lower coil connections.  Cooled water from the basin unit is pumped through distribution nozzles to be sprayed over the coils.  Ambient air is drawn into the unit from above in parallel flow with water over the coil.

A portion of the recirculated water evaporates; this evaporation – with cooled water flowing over the tubes – removes heat from the process fluid. Cooled process fluid leaves the coil through top coil connections, returning to the system.  Includes EVAPCO’s XPak™ bonded block fill, and high efficiency drift eliminators.

EVAPCO provides a full spectrum of global product solutions for the commercial HVAC, industrial refrigeration, power generation and industrial process markets.

New VCRTs Help Technicians Recover Refrigerant Faster and with Confidence Every Time 

Fieldpiece Instruments, the leading manufacturer of tool and test instruments that enhance the work of HVACR professionals, introduced three valve core removal tools (VCRTs) designed to improve system charging, recovery and evacuation tasks. VCRTs remove the valve core from service valves in air conditioning, heat pump, and refrigeration systems to replace defective cores and provide an unobstructed flow of refrigerant for faster servicing. The Fieldpiece VCRTs represent a significant leap forward in valve core removal technology, overcoming the limitations of existing tools.

One of the game-changing features within the Fieldpiece VCRT lineup includes an integrated sight glass that allows technicians to verify at a glance that the valve core is captured prior to removing it and confirm when refrigerant is flowing. Fieldpiece eliminated the frustration that techs face when it takes multiple tries, and lost refrigerant, before the valve core is captured with current competitive products. The Fieldpiece VCRT capture tip also includes an interior gasket that the valve core pin presses into to secure it for removal. No more fishing around for lost valve cores – a solid grip guarantees that the job is done right the first time, every time.

Another Fieldpiece exclusive feature is a comfort spinner, a free-spinning, rubberized cap that makes removing and inserting the valve core, while under pressure, easier and more comfortable. Like the sight glass, this comfort spinner is available on the VC1G and VC2G models. All three VCRT models, including the ultra-compact VC1, include a magnet in the cap to keep the removed valve core on hand during service.

All VCRT models are equipped with a 1/4” service port fitting that can be swapped in the field with an optional 5/16” service port fitting for mini-split systems, conveniently reducing the number of tools to carry. Replacement capture rod assemblies also streamline the maintenance process. Techs can say goodbye to deep-buried O-rings, as these simple replacement kits reduce downtime and expedite the repair process.

The premium VC2G tool features a dual ball valve design that protects attached vacuum gauges and pressure probes and adds versatility for connecting hose lines and isolating system service ports.

“Our VCRTs offer benefits that current VCRTs on the market do not have,” notes Jeb Ball, vice president of sales and marketing at Fieldpiece Instruments. “We collaborate with techs to understand the pain points and develop solutions that enhance their jobs. The VCRT line expands our arsenal of tools built for efficiency, versatility and durability, and underscores our commitment to innovations that allow technicians to work faster with more reliable results.”

Wholesalers are purchasing inventory now and product will be available to techs in April. To learn more about the benefits of Fieldpiece VCRTs, visit https://www.fieldpiece.com/valve-core-removal-tools.