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New hydrocarbon freezer
VATIS UPDATE Part
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Panasonic, Japan, has launched the VIP Ultra, a low-temperature freezer aimed at the medical sector. The ECO line of low-temperature freezers uses hydrocarbon refrigerants, minimise energy consumption, reduce environmental impact and save money. Panasonic tests revealed up to 55% reduction in energy use, which translates into energy cost savings of € 5,000 over 10 years.

The freezers go to temperatures of –86°C and a medical device certification (Class Ila) certifies its ability to keep research and clinical samples at the right temperature. It is also designed to provide 30% more storage capacity for a given floor area, saving laboratory space. The freezer operates a Dual Cooling System, which is two independent refrigeration circuits working together like a cascade system within the freezer.

However, the dual cooling technology differs from conventional cascade refrigeration technology. The two independent refrigeration systems work together to provide a reliable –86°C ultra-low temperature environment, but, if one system unexpectedly fails, the other can maintain the freezer in the –70°C range. The compressor is on a regulated on-off cycle that automatically responds to cooling demand to minimise compressor-running time and to save energy.