INCORPORATING COLD CHAIN
FEATURE
This Grasso X package consists of three CompaX semi-hermetic compressors .
Evapco CO 2 hybrid condenser . Andre van der Merwe , managing director of Evapco South Africa at Chillventa . operation , reducing energy consumption in variable-demand environments . Furthermore , the inclusion of BITZER ’ s IQ control module enhances the overall performance by enabling precise monitoring and efficient operation , even in complex industrial setups .
As global environmental regulations continue to tighten , BITZER remains at the forefront of the transition to low-GWP ( Global Warming Potential ) refrigerants . “ Although the South African market has yet to see widespread adoption of these solutions , BITZER is already preparing for a future shift toward more sustainable refrigerants like CO₂ and propane . These refrigerants align with international climate goals and are gaining traction in industries such as food processing and cold storage ,” he adds .
Steinborn explains that BITZER ’ s CO₂ compressors are already being deployed in both subcritical and transcritical systems , offering simplified installations and reduced maintenance requirements . “ The new 8 cyl . CO 2 compressors , which streamline operations by reducing the number of units needed per rack , are particularly relevant for large-scale refrigeration systems .” Steinborn noted that BITZER ’ s emphasis on CO₂ technology underscores the company ' s commitment to supporting its customers in adopting environmentally responsible solutions . In line with the growing trend of digitisation within the HVAC industry , BITZER ’ s IQ module was one of the highlights at Chillventa 2024 . This intelligent control module offers remote monitoring capabilities ,
BITZER condensing unit on display at Chillventa 2024 .
enabling technicians to access realtime performance data of compressors via Bluetooth on their mobile devices . Compatible with both iOS and Android platforms , the IQ module allows for easy tracking of operational parameters , alarm management , and even communication with plant controllers .
Focusing on energy efficiency , the new generation of the IQ MODULE CM- RC-02 was one of the BITZER product highlights at Chillventa 2024 . It has been a standard feature of ECOLINE reciprocating compressors of the C3 series and higher since the beginning of the year and lays the foundation for even higher efficiency in compressor operation and increased availability . In addition , intelligent functions such as monitoring key operating parameters and a user-friendly operating concept simplify compressor installation , commissioning and maintenance . Thanks to extension boards , the IQ MODULE also simplifies connection and operation of VARISTEP capacity control .
Steinborn highlights the module ’ s potential to aid maintenance practices , especially in large-scale industrial and retail environments . “ By providing detailed insights into compressor performance , the IQ module allows technicians to detect issues before they escalate into on-site failures , reducing downtime and the need for multiple service visits . Additionally , the module integrates with existing plant monitoring systems via Modbus , allowing for more proactive system management and a seamless connection to centralised monitoring platforms .”
Heat pump technology was another major focus for BITZER at Chillventa 2024 . With rising energy costs and increasing demand for sustainable solutions , heat pumps are becoming an attractive option for industries seeking to optimise energy usage by repurposing excess heat . BITZER ’ s heat pump systems , particularly those used in industrial settings , offer substantial energy savings by utilising waste heat for applications such as district heating .
BITZER ’ S EXPANDING PRESENCE IN SA AND BEYOND
BITZER ’ s innovative compressor technologies are particularly well-suited to the Southern African market , where demand for energyefficient refrigeration systems is rising . In South Africa and neighbours Namibia and Zimbabwe , BITZER ’ s solutions are helping industries meet the dual challenges of high energy consumption and environmental responsibility .
Steinborn highlights that BITZER ' s ammonia compressor packages have been instrumental in supporting the local food industry , ensuring reliable cooling for cold storage and food processing applications . These systems not only address cooling capacity requirements but also enhance energy efficiency , making them an essential part of the local cold chain infrastructure .
“ BITZER is also investing in training and education for our customers in the region . We offer extensive training programmes to help operators understand the new technologies and optimise system performance . These programmes also focus on crucial topics such as refrigerant regulations and environmental responsibility , aligning with BITZER ’ s commitment to sustainability .”
GEA PRESENTED THE SEMI- HERMETIC SCREW COMPRESSOR COMPAX
At Chillventa 2024 , GEA presented the semihermetic screw compressor CompaX as part of the Grasso X package ideal for seasonal refrigeration applications and flexible capacity requirements . This Grasso X package consists of three CompaX semi-hermetic compressors . " The compact , safe and reliable design , combined with high efficiency , result in reduced risks and a highly sustainable solution . We are pleased to bring over 50 years of experience in the development and production of screw compressors to the market with our semihermetic series ," says Robert Brinckmann , product manager packaged components at GEA .
Available as a single compressor package and optionally with two , three or four compressors in parallel , it offers a large capacity range from 395 to 1 900kW ( R717 | - 10 /+ 35 ° C | 6,000 rpm ) as well as flexibility , availability
and redundancy . Together with the large variable speed range up to 6 000rpm , the X-package can be operated in all ( partial ) load ranges with virtually no loss of efficiency . Based on the semi-hermetic screw compressor models GEA CompaX 350 and 400 without shaft seals , the package is a safe and reliable solution for the use of ammonia , enabling to reach efficiencies to fulfill the Eco Design regulations .
The ultra-compact footprint , another important parameter in the design of the package , facilitates the refurbishment of engine rooms , for example . A future-proof , efficient and safe solution comes with minimal space requirements , maintenance effort and overall risks .
With an ozone depletion potential ( ODP ) and global warming potential ( GWP ) of zero , ammonia is a particularly climate-friendly refrigerant and also a particularly efficient one . It has excellent thermodynamic properties , which are reflected in high efficiencies and correspondingly low operating costs . Ammonia has always been used in food processing plants , in the beverage and dairy industry as well as in breweries and cold stores - not least due to the low filling quantities .
PIONEERING CO 2
HYBRID SUBCRITICAL CONDENSER
The development of advanced condensing technologies directly impacts the performance and efficiency of compressors . A recent breakthrough in CO 2 refrigeration , introduced at Chillventa 2024 by Andre van der Merwe , managing director of Evapco South Africa , illustrates how innovations in condensers can significantly benefit compressor operations .
With an ozone depletion potential ( ODP ) and global warming potential ( GWP ) of zero , ammonia is a particularly climatefriendly refrigerant and also a particularly efficient one .
COLD LINK AFRICA • January / February 2025 www . coldlinkafrica . co . za 17