technotrans is heralding the future of laboratory cooling with a world first. The thermal management specialist is launching a new cooling device on the market, where individual modules can be added in a master-slave principle to increase cooling capacity. The base module (Master) achieves a cooling capacity of 1,700 watts. By adding the extension module (Slave), the system’s capacity doubles to 3,400 watts. The device uses a compression refrigeration machine with R290 (propane) as the refrigerant. As each module contains less than 100 grams of it, they are not subject to air transport restrictions. This allows for unrestricted logistics and easy setup of the devices. Serial production is set to begin in October 2024.
A world first: technotrans launches the first air- transportable propane laboratory cooler with a cooling capacity of more than 3 kilowatts. Image Credit: technotrans SE
“With our innovative modular concept, we are demonstrating the technical possibilities in terms of performance, energy efficiency, and future viability,” says Jan Kröger, Head of Division Healthcare & Analytics and Managing Director of technotrans systems GmbH. “Air- transportable propane laboratory coolers with a cooling capacity of more than 3 kilowatts are a world first – offered only by technotrans.” Thanks to the use of the environmentally friendly refrigerant, the laboratory cooler is not subject to any legal restrictions under the new
refrigerant regulations in Europe from 2027 (F-Gas Regulation) and the USA from 2024 (AIM Act). Even in the event of a planned ban on chemical refrigerants in Europe from 2032, propane remains a future- proof refrigerant due to its low GWP (Global Warming Potential) value of 3.
The modular principle, consisting of the base module and extension module, offers additional flexibility in terms of inventory and application. The setup of the devices is remarkably simple: only two hoses and a supply plug need to be connected to the base module. The electronics automatically detect whether an additional module is connected or if only the base module is active. Thanks to this plug-and-play principle, commissioning can be completed in just a few minutes.
State-of-the-Art technology and maximum control accuracy The new cooling point controller, technotrans ZKS-5, controls the machine’s operation at a constant temperature, manages all devices, and processes all signals. It is state-of-the-art technology and offers all common communication interfaces – from established standards like RS232 to Ethernet or RS485. The control accuracy of 0.1 Kelvin in the supply flow of the medium is of critical importance to users and meets common precision requirements. A clear display provides an easy-to- understand status update of the machine’s operation. The cooling water is pumped in a temperature range of 15 to 25 degrees Celsius through a hermetically sealed pump – with a maximum flow rate of 45 l/min at 5 bar pressure. The variable-speed drive motors ensure maximum energy efficiency. Additionally, the new cooler is mounted on wheels, providing optimal flexibility for laboratory operations. The cooling medium, water, is supplied via drip-free quick couplings.
“With this solution, we once again underscore our position as an innovation leader in compact laboratory coolers. We are offering a future-proof solution that will meet the long-term demands of modern laboratory applications,” emphasises Kröger.