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Schneider Electric has introduced Altivar HVAC, a new generation of variable frequency drives (ATH200 and ATH600) aimed at improving energy efficiency, reliability and performance for smart buildings. The line combines smart connectivity, protective features, compatibility with eco-friendly refrigerants and cybersecurity readiness.
ATH200 is optimized for original equipment manufacturers (OEMs) and compact HVAC equipment, with the goal of shortening design cycles and supporting compliance with new sustainability standards. ATH600 targets critical facilities and high-performance buildings, offering advanced control, continuous operation and deeper system integration.
In Vietnam, HVAC systems account for 30-50% of energy consumption in commercial buildings and up to 60% in data centers, where stable temperature and humidity are required. Against this backdrop—along with rapid energy demand driven by urbanization and industrialization and the country’s Net Zero commitment by 2050—improving HVAC energy efficiency is presented as a priority.
The article also notes that growing investment in data centers, airports and large real estate projects increases demand for HVAC systems that can operate reliably under Vietnam’s tropical climate and high humidity. Altivar HVAC is stated to operate in a temperature range from -10°C to 60°C and to withstand mechanical, thermal, electrical and environmental stresses, supporting uninterrupted operation for critical applications, including rooftop units, technical rooms and outdoor spaces.
The drives are described as simplifying installation through an EMC filter, motor thermal protection, and Modbus and BACnet communications. The design also removes the need for external contactors, reducing wiring complexity.
Physically, the compact design features a uniform 200 mm cabinet width. The materials are stated to comply with REACH, RoHS and ASI requirements, supporting faster deployment and more sustainable construction.
Altivar HVAC is said to work with Modicon M172/M173 controllers and Schneider Electric’s Harmony HMI, forming an HVAC ecosystem. A library of pre-built applications and integration into building automation systems are intended to help OEMs and system integrators shorten testing cycles, simplify design and support long-term efficiency.
Cybersecurity is addressed with IEC 62443-4-2 Security Level 1 certification, firmware integrity checks and upgrade capability. The drives are also stated to support compatibility with new low-GWP refrigerants used in modern cooling, heat pumps and HVAC systems.
Doan Thi Ha, Deputy General Director of Schneider Electric’s Industrial Automation division, said: “With the Altivar HVAC line, we are redefining standards for performance, reliability and security for modern HVAC systems, helping buildings and infrastructure operate more energy-efficiently and intelligently. As businesses increasingly focus on reducing operating costs and emissions, this is a practical solution that supports developers, manufacturers and operators on that journey.”
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