Johnson Controls, a global leader in smart, healthy, and sustainable building solutions, has announced the launch of its groundbreaking PENN System 550, a modular electronic control solution designed to regulate temperature, humidity, and pressure in HVAC and refrigeration systems. The System 550 is the first of its kind to integrate A2L refrigerant leak detection and mitigation, positioning it as a cutting-edge solution for compliance with new low-global warming potential (GWP) refrigerant regulations set to take effect on January 1, 2025.
Revolutionary Technology for Modern HVAC-R Needs
The PENN System 550 offers a user-friendly, plug-and-play control system that addresses the evolving needs of the HVAC-R industry, especially as the market shifts towards low-GWP refrigerants like A2L. Keith Gifford, Global Product Manager at Johnson Controls, emphasized that the System 550 was engineered to help equipment manufacturers navigate the complex transition to low-GWP refrigerants, ensuring safety and regulatory compliance while maintaining high performance.
The system’s A2L refrigerant sensors boast the fastest response time on the market, utilizing speed-of-sound technology to quickly detect refrigerant leaks, ensuring occupant safety and minimizing system downtime and product loss.
Advanced Features and Benefits
The PENN System 550’s modular design allows up to six A2L sensors to be connected to a single control module, with the flexibility to add up to 10 relay or analog outputs through plug-in expansion modules, all without field wiring. This versatility makes the System 550 ideal for a wide range of HVAC and refrigeration applications, including:
- Heating and cooling control
- Staged boiler or chiller control
- Humidification and dehumidification control
- Combination temperature and humidity control
Additionally, the System 550 includes an intuitive full-character display and rotary encoder dial, allowing for easy menu navigation and customizable sensor and output naming. The rotary dial also simplifies set-point changes for service technicians.
Cloud Connectivity and Real-Time Monitoring
The optional cloud connectivity feature sets the System 550 apart by providing real-time monitoring of system performance. Through Controls System Cloud, authorized users can receive SMS and email alerts, ensuring that any refrigerant leak or sensor failure is quickly addressed. The cloud system can display all System 550 devices by location or enterprise, making it easy to manage multiple sites.
This cloud-based functionality is especially valuable for service companies, allowing them to diagnose issues remotely and dispatch technicians as needed, streamlining maintenance and repairs.
Prepared for the Future
Designed with future-proofing in mind, the System 550 will eventually support A3 refrigerant sensors (e.g., R290/propane), ensuring adaptability as refrigerant regulations continue to evolve.
Comprehensive Support and Warranty
System 550 is backed by PENN’s three-year warranty and is supported by Johnson Controls' extensive network of authorized wholesalers across the U.S., Canada, and Mexico, ensuring easy access to replacement controls, accessories, and technical support.
With the PENN System 550, Johnson Controls continues to set the standard for smart, sustainable solutions that meet the needs of modern HVAC-R systems while ensuring safety, compliance, and efficiency.