www. refrigerationandaircon. co. za RACA Journal I April 2025 33
Project
SUSTAINABLE COOLING SOLUTION SAVES ENERGY IN PHARMACEUTICAL LOGISTICS FACILITY
By Eamonn Ryan
A cutting-edge cooling system has been installed at a 1 376m2 storage facility, providing an energy-efficient solution for the IMCD Group pharmaceutical company.
All images by Crown Technologies
The facility under construction. The system, a Climate Wizard by Seeley International, was part of a larger project worth R7-million for logistics company C. Steinweg Chemical Logistics, tasked with maintaining strict temperature controls for sensitive pharmaceutical products.
The Climate Wizard is an indirect evaporative cooling system that operates with considerable energy efficiency. Unlike traditional air conditioning units, which would use 25 kW of power, the new system requires less than 14 kW – a 44 % reduction in energy use. This is a crucial consideration, as the facility must maintain a temperature range of 15-25 ° C with a range of 40-65 % humidity to ensure the integrity of the stored pharmaceutical products.
What sets the Climate Wizard apart is its ability to cool air without adding excess moisture, making it ideal for the pharmaceutical industry. This indirect evaporative cooling process, which uses a heat exchange system, is both more
“ The Climate Wizard is an indirect evaporative cooling system that operates with considerable energy efficiency.” energy-efficient and sustainable than traditional direct evaporative cooling systems, which introduce moisture into the air.
Due to its lower energy consumption Climate Wizard cooling systems are more attractive options where solar systems are in mind. This also aligns with the sustainability goals of both C. Steinweg and IMCD Group. Despite a higher upfront installation cost, the system is expected to recover its investment within five years through reduced energy expenses.
“ This project is a great example of how energy-efficient technologies can significantly lower operating costs while supporting sustainability goals,” says Neil Britz, CEO of Crown Technologies, the lead contractor involved in the project.“ We’ re proud to have implemented a solution that meets the demanding requirements of the pharmaceutical industry while also contributing to environmental conservation.”
Crown Technologies took charge of the design, procurement, installation and project management. The team worked closely with structural engineers to ensure the storage area’ s complex insulation requirements were met. Challenges included the installation’ s height— reaching up to 18 metres in certain areas— and the need for reinforced structures to support the weight of the cooling system.
www. refrigerationandaircon. co. za RACA Journal I April 2025 33