2024 PROJECTS
Image Credit: Panel World
SEPTEMBER
FROM FREEZER TO FRESH: CCH DRIVES MULTI-PURPOSE COLD CHAIN TRANSFORMATION AT EPPING CCH Logistics transformed its Epping facility from a dedicated freezer store into a versatile fruit and frozen produce hub. Jeff Wedgwood Consulting Engineers and Cape Bulk Industrial Refrigeration redesigned the two-stage ammonia plant, added 27 new cooling tunnels, and installed variable-speed drives and a sophisticated SCADA system for energy-efficient, precise temperature control. The upgrade maintained continuous operations, expanded multi-fruit handling and improved storage density with Barpro racking systems. Plant room layouts were optimised for serviceability and efficiency. This comprehensive renovation enhances CCH’ s export readiness, operational flexibility and sustainability, supporting year-round fruit handling and compliance with stringent international phytosanitary standards.
Image Credit: Jeff Wedgewood Consulting Engineers
OCTOBER
LACTALIS’ NEW HIGH-RISE DC CUTS ENERGY BY 30 % An existing warehouse in Cape Town’ s Parow Industrial Area was converted into an energy-efficient Lactalis distribution centre. Energy Partners designed an ammonia / glycol refrigeration plant with a CO2 low-temperature circuit, natural refrigerants and variable-speed drives to optimise efficiency and redundancy. High-bay insulated panels, automated doors and insulated docking bays reduce energy losses, while a comprehensive monitoring system enables remote performance tracking. Executed in two phases, the project increased storage volume by 158 % and cut monthly energy consumption by 34 %. Continuous monitoring ensures operational reliability, safety and minimised lifecycle costs, marking a major upgrade for Lactalis’ s South African operations.
Image Credit: John Ackermann
NOVEMBER / DECEMBER
FIRST-OF-ITS-KIND INTEGRATED CO2 SYSTEM COOLS MAKRO STORE, PROMISING EFFICIENCY GAINS Future Green Now( FGN) engineered South Africa’ s first integrated CO2 system at a new Makro store in East London, combining refrigeration and air conditioning in a single plant. By using CO2 – a refrigerant with negligible global warming potential – the system delivers significant environmental and energy efficiency benefits, potentially reducing electricity consumption by 20 – 25 %. The project, executed rapidly with Dewing Construction, Engineering Solutions and AirFire Solutions, replaced traditional chilled water AHUs with direct expansion CO2 units. High-pressure coils, stainless steel piping and a CAREL-managed control system ensured safe, reliable operation. This pioneering approach represents a milestone in sustainable retail cooling.
Image Credit: Futire Green Now
NOTES:
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