YORK, Pa. — Bus air-conditioning supplier American Cooling Technology (ACT) has released its new high-performance CR-4 roof-mount condenser unit.

Based on market feedback from customers who participated in field trials, ACT made the CR-4 unit smaller and lighter than other high-capacity roof-mount condensers.

At less than 10 inches tall, the CR-4 unit increases roof clearance and provides a cleaner, sleeker look to the air-conditioning installation. The low profile and tapered leading edge of the unit eliminate the need to install a branch guard, which is typically required on a standard rooftop condenser.

The CR-4 is available in both 12-volt and 24-volt models and can be supplied as a dual loop unit to be connected to two automotive-style compressors or as a single loop to connect to a single high-capacity transit compressor.

"This flexibility makes the CR-4 a good fit for both conventional- and hybrid-drive buses," the company said in an announcement.

Company officials said that by relocating the air-conditioning condenser from the typical position under the bus floor to the roof of the bus, the capacity and operating efficiency of the air-conditioning system improve because it uses cleaner air from the top of the bus through the unit’s heat exchanger.

All ACT split systems use non-ozone-depleting HFC-134a refrigerant, and the CR-4 delivers a high cooling capacity (165,000 Btu/hr IMACA).

The CR-4 is also easier to install than its predecessors, according to the company. The design specifications of the unit include a one-piece “drop in” construction to simplify and reduce the time it takes to complete the installation.

In addition, the CR-4’s modular construction allows for improved access to internal components, making it easier to service.

"This translates to less downtime, which is critical for bus fleets operating on tight budgets," the company said.

The CR-4 rooftop condenser can be matched with other ACT components to provide a complete HVAC system that meets various vehicle sizes, duty cycles and geographic locations.

For more information, contact a local ACT distributor, call the company at (877) 228-4247 or go to www.actusa.us.com.