INCORPORATING COLD CHAIN
FEATURE
“ Frigair was money well spent for the potential business that we generated off the exhibition floor . We launched our new solar panel cooling tower at the show as it enables people to see and touch something tangible that a website doesn ’ t . We had a mixture of existing customers and potential new customers engaging with us . I would say to anyone the money spent on the show is worth every cent .” - Chad Vercuiel , sales engineer at Evapco .
“ This year I have been impressed with the quality of visitors at the exhibition and have had really meaningful interactions .” – Arthur Smal , Umicore Marketing .
HIGHLIGHT OF PRODUCTS , SERVICES AND TECHNOLOGY It was not surprising that at this year ’ s event , nearly 50 % of exhibitors used the opportunity to showcase something new from their products or services range , demonstrating the changes that have happened in the sector since the last gathering . This in fact mirrors the advancements of technology around the world – particularly over the last two years .
Similarly , the other exhibitors had either refined their focus or expanded their range to address the needs of the ever-changing HVAC & R world . Digitalisation of products and services was further another key trend as the ability to gather data , but also increase efficiency has become critical for all stakeholders that require any HVAC & R functions .
What was further evident this year was the fact that great interest in commercial refrigeration and related facilities was on the table with expected activity in the cold chain to show double digit figures over the next five years and retailers are now more than
ever seeking ways to gain a competitive edge . Similarly , air quality has moved high up the list for space occupants and so the need to explore specific technology that can be deployed without re-inventing systems or by using portable solutions held interest .
With the event ’ s theme being “ Natural Refrigerants ”, several suppliers showcased their latest offerings in this line of products that will see a shift as older refrigerants are being phased out . Ammonia systems are already used widely while CO 2 systems are seeing increased deployment and even the use of propane is experiencing a fast shift in commercial applications as well as use in AC systems . For retail applications selfcontained display fridges and freezers using this refrigerant are already out in the market in their thousands and for quite some time .
Several conversations surfaced at the event around leapfrogging certain refrigerant replacements directly to natural refrigerants as technology and system capabilities are moving at such a rapid pace . Also of concern is the trajectory of the country ’ s phase-out of harmful refrigerants
“ We went to Frigair to reconnect with our existing customers and generate awareness of our company , products and services . That was our goal , but this was surpassed in that not only do we feel we have accomplished that , but we also had some serious inquiries .” - Albert Gurwe , sales executive at Dalucon Refrigeration Products .
COLD LINK AFRICA • July / August 2022 www . coldlinkafrica . co . za 21