Johnson Controls : opens new $6.7 million screw compressor test lab in Waynesboro, PA

The 7,000-square-foot facility is one of the largest, most sophisticated test labs in the screw compressor industry

MILWAUKEE - (April 24, 2017) - Johnson Controls has completed construction and launched operation of a new $6.7 million screw compressor testing laboratory at its Waynesboro, Pennsylvania manufacturing plant. At 7,000-square-feet, the facility is one of the largest, most sophisticated testing laboratories in the screw compressor industry.

The new laboratory is used to test large screw compressors that support refrigeration and gas compression applications in the oil and gas and process industries. It allows Johnson Controls to load test and confirm performance of its compressors so customers can purchase the technology with complete confidence.

'We take our role in U.S.-based manufacturing very seriously, and this lab really drives that point home,' added Bill Jackson, president, Johnson Controls Global Products. 'With its impressive size and capabilities, we're confident that this lab will soon be known as the center for screw compressor technology in North America.'

'With its impressive size and capabilities, we're confident that this lab will soon be known as the center for screw compressor technology in North America.' -- Bill Jackson, president, Johnson Controls Global Products

Johnson Controls uses the laboratory to test industry-leading screw compressor technology, starting with the company's new 'RWHII' Series 408-mm sleeve bearing screw compressor and 'HPSH' Series high-pressure line. The 408-mm sleeve bearing screw compressors are primarily used in large American Petroleum Institute (API)oriented applications in the oil, natural gas, and petrochemical industries. Applications for the HPSH line include gas turbine fuel gas boosting, CO2, and heat pump systems.

At the heart of the new lab is a 5,000 HP variable speed electric motor. The test loop is rated for 1,100 psig, supporting test conditions up to 1,000 psig discharge pressure. An ammonia refrigeration system equipped with a Frick® RWFII 177 screw compressor with electric motor drive is used along with a cooling tower to remove heat of compression and achieve desired suction temperatures. The lab operates on nitrogen, with the ability to model a wide range of gases.

'We're enthusiastic about this new facility because it demonstrates Johnson Controls' commitment to product innovation and to delivering high-quality, state-of-the-art screw compressors for the oil and gas industry,' said Ed Milligan, vice president and general manager, Industrial Refrigeration, Americas at Johnson Controls. 'Furthermore, it proves our commitment to Waynesboro and the local manufacturing community by supporting the nearly 450 jobs at this plant.'

For more information on Johnson Controls' screw compressor technology and industrial refrigeration capabilities, go to http://www.johnsoncontrols.com/buildings/refrigeration/industrial-refrigeration.

About Johnson Controls
Johnson Controls is a global diversified technology and multi industrial leader serving a wide range of customers in more than 150 countries. Our 130,000 employees create intelligent buildings, efficient energy solutions, integrated infrastructure and next generation transportation systems that work seamlessly together to deliver on the promise of smart cities and communities. Our commitment to sustainability dates back to our roots in 1885, with the invention of the first electric room thermostat. We are committed to helping our customers win and creating greater value for all of our stakeholders through strategic focus on our buildings and energy growth platforms. For additional information, please visit http://www.johnsoncontrols.com or follow us @johnsoncontrols on Twitter.
About Johnson Controls' Building Technologies & Solutions
Johnson Controls' Building Technologies & Solutions has an unmatched portfolio of HVACR products and solutions to create more comfortable, safe and efficient buildings. Operating in more than 150 countries through a strong network of distribution channels, Building Technologies & Solutions' breadth of offerings help building owners, operators, engineers and consultants impact the full lifecycle of a building. Its market leadership is established through trusted brands such as YORK®, Sabroe® and Metasys® as well as its smart building integration capabilities and energy financing solutions. For more information, visit www.johnsoncontrols.com or follow @JCI_BEnews.

# # #