Cold Link Africa January February 2025 | Page 19

FEATURE
INCORPORATING COLD CHAIN
The launch of Evapco ’ s hybrid subcritical condenser marks a major step forward , as it combines air-cooled and wet cooling technologies to condense CO 2 at lower temperatures and pressures , reducing the overall load on compressors . This hybrid system is designed to condense CO 2 from a gas to a liquid more efficiently than traditional systems , allowing for a reduction in the number or size of compressors required . By integrating a dry cooler that removes much of the high-temperature heat before entering the wet coil , the system enhances the overall efficiency of the refrigeration process , offering a more cost-effective and sustainable solution . For compressors , this means not only improved operational efficiency but also a reduction in energy consumption and maintenance costs , positioning the hybrid condenser as a crucial development for both performance and sustainability in the industry .
“ CO 2 is increasingly recognised as a refrigerant of the future ,” states Van der Merwe , referencing recent discussions about the transition away from ozonedepleting substances . “ This hybrid condenser is unique as it can condense
CO 2 from a gas back to a liquid state , which is a notable departure from traditional gas cooler systems . This is the first official CO 2 subcritical condenser that we believe has been launched globally .”
The design allows for a reduction in the number of compressors needed , as an example — four instead of five — resulting in a more cost-effective system overall . Van der Merwe expresses excitement about the potential applications of this new technology , particularly in the South African market . “ We are eager to start promoting these innovations back home and will likely showcase the hybrid condenser at FRIGAIR later this year ,” he adds .
“ This is the first prototype we ' ve shown so far ,” he remarks , presenting the hybrid condenser . While it may not be the largest model available , its size is sufficient to illustrate the key components : the dry coil and the wet coil .
Van der Merwe explains how the subcritical system operates more efficiently than traditional transcritical systems . The enthalpy chart he shares highlights how the hybrid system operates at lower temperatures and pressures , ultimately leading to a more cost-effective solution .
With the increasing focus on sustainable refrigerants , particularly CO 2
, the hybrid
CAREL signage for R-290 HPR at Chillventa .
CAREL HeosPro Sistema .
subcritical condenser positions Evapco among the more environmentally friendly solutions . “ This innovation is highly relevant for South Africa ,” he adds .
DORIN INNOVATION UNVEILS NEW COMPRESSOR TECHNOLOGIES AT CHILLVENTA 2024
At Chillventa 2024 , Mauro Bonfanti , commercial director of Dorin , outlined the company ’ s strategic innovations and products set to transform the refrigeration landscape . With a focus on sustainability and efficiency , Dorin is transitioning from traditional HFC systems to more environmentally friendly CO 2 systems ,
particularly for supermarkets , while also addressing the growing industrial refrigeration and natural gas heat pump market .
Dorin collaborates with key distributors in South Africa such as Macs Cool , TecsaReco , as well as HC Heat Exchangers , which focuses on commercial and industrial refrigeration . While the company continues to supply mainly HFC compressors , Bonfanti noted a significant trend towards
CO 2 systems , driven by increasing environmental regulations and a shift in consumer preferences . He emphasises that while this was primarily focused on the supermarket sector , he anticipated growth in industrial transition involving HFC
and ammonia systems , indicating broader benefits of CO 2 as a natural refrigerant . A major highlight of Dorin ’ s R & D efforts is the expansion of its CO 2 transcritical compressors . “ Currently offering 250kW of cooling capacity for its largest CO 2 transcritical compressor , the company is preparing to launch compressors with capacities of 500kW and 1MW in the coming year . This development marks a significant step towards catering to the growing demands of industrial refrigeration in South Africa and rest of the world ,” he says .
In addition to CO 2 systems , Dorin is innovating in the hydrocarbon sector with the development of ATEX explosion-proof compressors designed for use in hazardous environments . Bonfanti explains the unique challenges of working with hydrocarbons , particularly their miscibility with oil , which can affect compressor performance . “ Dorin ’ s new compressors incorporate special technologies to manage low oil viscosity , ensuring reliable operation under challenging conditions .”
Dorin is also making strides in the heat pump sector , offering high-temperature models that utilise CO 2 and hydrocarbons . With maximum discharge temperatures reaching 160 ° C for both CO 2 and hydrocarbon compressors , Dorin is positioning itself to meet the evolving needs of the market . While Bonfanti acknowledges that the heat pump market in South Africa is smaller compared to Europe , he expresses optimism about its growth potential , citing similarities in regulatory trends and market dynamics . “ You ’ re going the same route ,” he says .
With a robust focus on CO 2 and hydrocarbon technologies , alongside advancements in heat pumps , Dorin is wellequipped to navigate a changing landscape of the refrigeration industry in South Africa as regulations tighten and environmental awareness grows . CLA
A major highlight from Dorin ’ s R & D efforts is the expansion of their CO2 transcritical compressors .
1 2
1 and 2 : Copeland ZTW CO 2 transcritical scroll compressor and EVH variable frequency drive .

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