Aerofoil Energy presents ground breaking research into refrigeration doors

Aerofoil Energy's paper (download here) explores the energy savings achieved by adding doors to an open-fronted multi-deck refrigerator.

The study explains the disparity between the energy savings reported from ISO testing and the lower savings measured in live stores. This difference, which can be as high as 30%, is due to two main factors: (i) the significantly different ambient temperature and humidity conditions between ISO and store environments; and (ii) the non-uniformity of door openings in a live trading store as compared with the artificial regularity of openings specified under ISO testing criteria.

For the experiments, Aerofoil Energy deployed fully programmable robotic arms to open and close the fridge doors with pre-determined frequency and duration. This ensured a high level of reliability and repeatability from one scenario to the next.

The study shows that moving from CC3 test conditions to those more typically observed in a supermarket or convenience store, significantly reduces the energy savings achievable from doors. Moreover, the most appropriate regime for a more complete understanding of the energy savings achievable with doors, would be to test using a profile of door openings that closely mimics that of a trading store, i.e. where the number and duration of door operations varies significantly throughout the day.

Following on from its research, Aerofoil Energy has developed complementary technology that enhances the energy-efficiency of refrigeration doors. For more information, please contact Aerofoil Energy.