MHI Thermal Systems Air Conditioners Confirmed to Reduce Airborne Viruses

Mitsubishi Heavy Industries Thermal Systems, Ltd., a Group company of Mitsubishi Heavy Industries, Ltd. (MHI), has confirmed that its SY/SYK Series of the 2020 lineup of residential-use air conditioners with air cleaning functionality (allergen clear filter and nano-mist ion generation) are effective in reducing airborne viruses, bacteria, and mold. (Note) MHI Thermal Systems contracted Japan Food Research Laboratories (JFRL) to conduct verification testing compliant with the test standards of the Japan Electrical Manufacturers’ Association (JEMA). MHI Thermal Systems will take advantage of this report verifying favorable air cleaning performance to expand sales of its residential-use air conditioners.

MHI Thermal Systems requested third-party verification in order to revise its product catalogues and other public information, selecting to test the 14-mat type highest grade model "SRK40SY2-W" (rated capacity 4.0kW) from the 10 models sold in Japan. The testing was conducted in accordance with the testing procedure for residential-use air cleaners prescribed by JEMA (JEM1467 (Annex D)) (suspended virus removal performance test). MHI Thermal Systems contracted JFRL to conduct the verification tests. Test air conditioners were installed in testing rooms each with specimens of virus, bacteria, and mold suspended in the air, and the tests conducted (effectiveness in a 25m3 test room, not a result in an actually utilized space).

The air conditioner model used for the test has a nano-mist and ion generating function with proprietary technology that reduces moisture to nano size using a non-porous membrane, and emits extremely fine particles 100 millionth the size (volume ratio) of ordinary steam. It also incorporates an "allergen clear filter" that uses the power of urea and enzymes to control pollen and other allergens. Thea air conditioner was also operated with the "washable sun filter" installed, a filter standard on all S Series models that can be washed with water and sun-dried to restore its deodorization performance.

MHI Thermal System will utilize these third-party test results, as well as features such as the nano-mist and ion generating function unique to its models to help create secure and comfortable living spaces.

(Notes) Testing laboratory : Japan Food Research Laboratories (JFRL)