FMC Ice Sports to begin trial of ionization sanitizing at the DCR Pirelli Rink in Franklin, MA

As part of our ongoing commitment to provide the cleanest and safest environment for our patrons and staff, FMC has purchased and installed bi-polar ionization air purifying equipment to purify the air inside the rink as it passes through the HVAC equipment. FMC conducted extensive research in air purifying technology and selected Nu-Calgon’s iWave technology based on its ability to purify a large volume of air in a short amount of time.

The iWave generator units use ionization technology to purify the air, killing bacteria and viruses within minutes. As the air flows past the iWave-C, the device emits positive and negative ions, creating a plasma region that actively purifies the supply air, killing mold, bacteria and viruses in the space. The ionization process also reduces allergens, smoke and static electricity, as well as controlling odors and other particles in the air without creating ozone or any harmful byproducts.

The new iWave-C units installed at Pirelli are expected to perform as well or better than the independent lab test results due to the large capacity of the units installed relative to the coverage area of the rink. The units will run continuously in the HVAC air distribution system when the rink is occupied.

“The deciding factor for us was the technology’s effectiveness in killing the Covid-19 virus” said FMC President Rob McBride. “The independent lab analysis showed the equipment killed 99.4% of Covid-19 virus within 30 minutes. When added to our existing disinfecting regimen using hydrostatic foggers this will provide an ultra-clean and safe environment continuously for all our patrons and staff.”

FMC will monitor the performance of the equipment through regular IAQ testing during the initial one-month trial period. If the actual results demonstrate the expected performance, we will expand the use of the technology to other FMC locations. We want our patrons and FMC family to feel safe and comfortable in our rinks and know that cleaner air will help keep everyone healthier all season long.