Brazilian refrigeration technology manufacturer Embraco, which is part of Nidec Global Appliance, has found that its propane (R290)-based, fixed-speed EMX compressor can reduce the energy use of ice machines by 34% compared to an R404A alternative, according to a statement from the company.
Embraco’s study also found that its compressor boosted ice production by 35%.
“The study demonstrates that natural refrigerants [are] the next trend for the ice machine market,” said Michel Moreira, Sales Director for the North American Region at Nidec Global Appliance. “It is a win-win situation: energy costs reduction and productivity increase combined with lower environmental impact.”
“The study demonstrates that natural refrigerants [are] the next trend for the ice machine market. It is a win-win situation: energy costs reduction and productivity increase combined with lower environmental impact.”
Michel Moreira, Nidec Global Appliance
Embraco has said that its EMX compressor, in addition to ice machines, is also suitable for use in under-counter units, reach-in freezers and coolers, bottle coolers and beer merchandizers, “thanks to the high starting torque motor and the high efficiency.”
“The study demonstrates that natural refrigerants [are] the next trend for the ice machine market,” said Michel Moreira, Sales Director for the North American Region at Nidec Global Appliance. “It is a win-win situation: energy costs reduction and productivity increase combined with lower environmental impact.”
Embraco’s EMX compressor will be one of the highlights at the company’s booth (#B2339) at this year’s International Air-Conditioning, Heating, Refrigeration Exposition (AHR Expo), which will be running concurrently with the ASHRAE Winter Conference in Atlanta, Georgia (U.S.), February 6–8.
“This year at AHR, Embraco’s participation will have a special focus on the food service and aftermarket segments’ applications and needs,” said the manufacturer. “That is why the EMX and its features will be among the solutions displayed at the show.”
For commercial applications, Embraco will also be showcasing its propane-based, fixed-speed NEX and NTX compressors at AHR Expo. According to the manufacturer, these models can offer up to 1.9kW (0.5TR) and 2.9kW (0.8TR) cooling capacity, respectively.
New variable-speed compressor
AHR Expo attendees will also get to learn more about Embraco’s soon-to-be-launched VNEX compressor, which combines its variable-speed technology with propane. This latest model is designed for large food retail applications in low and medium temperatures.
“[VNEX] is large enough to cover up to [five-door] reach-in commercial freezers and large open-air refrigerators, and offers the highest cooling capacity and energy efficiency of its class,” said the manufacturer.
According to a case study presented by Embraco at Chillventa 2022, its new VNEX compressor can reduce the energy consumption of a two-door reach-in freezer by 11.2%, compared to one of its R290 fixed-speed compressors.
The manufacturer added that depending on the application, its variable-speed compressors can cut energy use by up to 40% compared to fixed-speed alternatives.
Embraco’s R290-based VEMT and FMFT variable-speed compressors will also be on display at AHR Expo.
R290 condensing units
Embraco will also be showcasing its new R290-based condensing units portfolio at AHR Expo next month. The range covers a variety of sizes and cooling capacities.
“We see that refrigeration equipment manufacturers for food service can greatly benefit from cooling solutions that come ready to install into their applications,” said Moreira.
“We see that refrigeration equipment manufacturers for food service can greatly benefit from cooling solutions that come ready to install into their applications.”
Michel Moreira, Nidec Global Appliance
Instead of offering just the compressor, Embraco can now offer its customers a range of options, from a basic or customized condensing unit to a complete refrigeration unit that is already pre-charged with refrigerant.
“It not only saves time for our customers, eliminating the need to buy and assemble multiple parts, but also allows them to focus their labor force on their core business, utilizing just one part number instead,” he added.
In addition to showcasing a range of its products at AHR Expo, Embraco will be participating in an ASHRAE Conference Session at 8 am EST on February 7. Nidec Global Appliance’s R&D Director Marek Zgliczynski will be presenting on “the evolution of compressors and related applications in household and light commercial refrigeration with natural refrigerants.”
