Shenling, a leading provider of Pre-Conditioned Air (PCA) units for aircraft, announces the launch of its inverter-driven PCA units, setting a new benchmark in energy efficiency and performance for ground support systems.
With over two decades of experience in the HVAC industry, Shenling has earned a reputation for delivering high-performance climate control solutions tailored to the demanding needs of aviation environments. The new inverter PCA units reflect this ongoing commitment to innovation, operational reliability, and sustainability.
Taking Energy Efficiency to the Next Level
Unlike traditional fixed-speed PCA units, Shenling’s inverter technology enables variable speed control, allowing the system to dynamically adjust output based on real-time demand of the aircraft cabin. This ensures stable and precise temperature control while dramatically improving energy efficiency, especially during part-load operation. Studies online show that inverter air conditioning systems can reduce energy usage by up to 30% compared to their fixed-speed counterparts.
The Shenling inverter PCA units incorporate multiple core components driven by inverter technology, including the compressor, supply fan, and axial fan. The DC brushless inverter scroll compressor offers stepless inverter regulation, a high power factor, and a soft start that minimizes impact on the power supply. Inverter control of the supply fan enables stepless airflow adjustment. The axial fan features inverter-driven stepless speed control as well; under partial load, the fan speed can be reduced, with power consumption decreasing proportionally to the cube of the speed. Moreover, the high-precision Electronic Expansion Valve (EEV) ensures accurate control of refrigerant flow.
Enhancing Passenger Comfort
Passengers experience the highest level of comfort when the cabin temperature remains stable within an optimal range typically between 22°C and 24°C. Maintaining this thermal balance is crucial, as sudden temperature fluctuations can lead to physical discomfort, restlessness, and even fatigue during flight. Therefore, precise and steady temperature control is essential not only for passenger comfort but also for enhancing overall satisfaction throughout the journey.
Thanks to advanced inverter technology, Shenling inverter PCA units offer precise digital control over both temperature and airflow. The system continuously adjusts key components, including the compressor, fans, and EEV, in real time to match the actual cooling or heating demand. As a result, it maintains a consistently stable outlet air temperature within ±1°C, even under varying weather conditions and load requirements. This high level of precision not only ensures optimal thermal comfort for passengers during boarding and maintenance operations but also creates a more comfortable and controlled working environment for ground personnel, ultimately improving operational efficiency and overall service quality.
Reducing Environmental Impact
Shenling inverter PCA units utilize environmentally friendly R410A refrigerant, which is non-toxic, non-flammable, and has an ozone depletion potential (ODP) of zero. This refrigerant not only delivers high cooling and heating efficiency but also helps protect the ozone layer by eliminating harmful emissions.
Unlike traditional Auxiliary Power Units (APUs) that rely on aviation fuel to provide cooling, resulting in significant greenhouse gas emissions, PCA units operate using electricity for startup and continuous functioning. This shift from fuel-based to electric-powered cooling drastically reduces carbon emissions and lowers the overall environmental footprint of ground operations.
By combining advanced inverter technology with sustainable refrigerants and electric power, Shenling inverter PCA units contribute to greener, more energy-efficient airport and aircraft support systems, aligning with global efforts to reduce aviation’s environmental impact.
Lowering Airport Operational Costs
Compared to an aircraft’s APU, the Shenling PCA unit can reduce hourly operating costs by up to 84.9% according to research data. This significant cost saving is primarily due to the PCA’s use of efficient inverter-driven electric technology, which consumes far less energy than fuel-powered APUs.
By relying on electricity instead of aviation fuel, the Shenling PCA not only cuts fuel expenses but also lowers maintenance costs, since electric systems typically experience less wear and require fewer repairs. Additionally, the quieter operation reduces noise pollution, potentially lowering costs related to noise management and improving the working environment for ground staff.
These savings translate into substantial economic benefits for airports and airlines, making Shenling inverter PCA units a smart investment for enhancing operational efficiency while reducing overall costs.
Product Highlights & Specifications
Cooling Capacity: 139 – 612 kW (customizable based on aircraft model and airport conditions)
Airflow Rate: Up to 18,760 m³/h
Supply Air Temperature(Cooling): ≤ 2°C
Supply Air Temperature(Heating): 20°C ~ 60°C
Operating Temperature: -20°C ~ 50°C
Power Supply: 3N+PE 380V~50Hz
Refrigerant: R410A
Noise Level: ~78 dB(A)
Application Range: Suitable for narrow-body and wide-body aircrafts
Designed for the Future of Aviation
As airports and airlines worldwide prioritize carbon reduction and operational efficiency, inverter-based PCA systems are becoming a critical part of ground support infrastructure. Shenling’s new offering supports airports in meeting their sustainability and electrification goals, without compromising on performance or safety.
Energy efficiency and smart control are no longer optional, they’re essential. Shenling’s inverter PCA units meet those expectations while helping airports reduce energy costs and enhance operational flexibility.