Left to Right: 
Andrew Schaefer, Todd Christie and Jonathon Singer of Armstrong

Back to News Index

Western Michigan University Students Key in Water Heater Efficiency Project at Armstrong International

THREE RIVERS -- Armstrong International in Three Rivers recently received key and critical direction in a design project from two unexpected sources - in the form of two very bright college students in Todd Christie and Andrew Schaefer. The pair are Western University Michigan students and they proved to be most instrumental in the successful development of the design and optimization of a "thermal solar assist for water heating systems."

For their undaunted and entrepreneurial collective efforts, Christie and Schaefer were recognized by both Armstrong International and WMU personnel at the "45th Conference on Senior Engineering Design Projects" on the campus of WMU April 20.   

"It has been my distinct pleasure to have had several of our employees here work side by side with two extremely talented young men in Todd Christie and Andrew Schaefer representing Western Michigan University," cited David Armstrong, President and Chief Executive Officer of Armstrong Global Holdings, Inc. "Their presence and value which they brought to our company through their collective entrepreneurial skills, certainly serves to magnify the success of this unique project." 

High efficiency water heaters operate with peak performance when there is a large temperature differential between the water inlet and the set-point. Standard industrial and commercial settings are to have hot water recirculation minimizing the lag of hot water reaching the fixture upon demand. Solar energy can be collected, stored, and used in the system in a manner that requires the burner to fire only when there is a fixture demand maintaining high-efficiency.

Solar water heating systems were developed using an economic analysis for different regions and user patterns so a specific system can be recommended for a particular need throughout the United States.    

Cory Hoffman, Hot Water Group Engineering Manager and one of several Armstrong International employees in Three Rivers that worked closely with Christie and Schaefer in the project design phase had nothing but high praise for the duo.  

"This unique conception for industrial hot water heating systems will certainly help carry our company to the next level as a leader in today's market," revealed Hoffman." Todd and Andrew's contributions serve to set a new standard for our future work efforts here."

About Armstrong International

Armstrong International provides intelligent system solutions that improve utility performance, lower energy consumption, and reduce environmental emissions, while providing an enjoyable experience. Founded in 1900, Armstrong International is a family-owned company head    quartered in the United States, with manufacturing, sales and educational centers located throughout North America, Europe, Asia, and the subcontinent of India. More information can be found at: armstronginternational.com.