One of the particular elements that impacted the progress of the project staying on schedule was the growing concern over the supply of equipment – both locally and internationally as lead times of the equipment required ranged from 20 to 60 weeks . Over this period , significant raw materials and component shortages were evident that needed to be navigated .

From start to finish we had a very tight deadline and thus there was little to no room

for mistakes . As stated this project , from start to finish , was merely a 7-month timeframe .

DESIGN SPECS AND SYSTEM SOLUTION Makro requested a CO ₂ refrigeration system from the start . This retailer , as one of the largest in the country , has continued to lead the way in commercial refrigeration by opting for the implementation of natural , future-proof systems across their network .

The system installed at the Pietermaritzburg site , collaboratively supplies to the store approximately 504kW cooling capacity . The refrigeration system is made up of two parallel compression

refrigeration packs – namely pack A and B . Pack A produces 175kW and 77kW for medium-temperature and low-temperature , respectively . Pack A consists then of four medium-temperature compressors evaporating at -5 C , two parallel compressors evaporating at + 3.3 C , as well as three low-temperature compressors evaporating at -30 C .

Pack B produces 175kw and 77kw for medium-temperature and low-temperature respectively . Pack B consists of four mediumtemperature compressors evaporating at -5 C , two parallel compressors evaporating at + 3.3 0C , and three low-temperature compressors evaporating at -30 C .

Packs A & B are arranged in such a manner that each pack ’ s cooling capacity is distributed evenly according to design and demand between display cases , cold rooms , freezer rooms , chiller rooms , or preparation areas , and so on , which are located within the shop floor .