New Copeland™ CO2 Scroll Solutions for Trans- and Subcritical Applications

Emerson perfectly combines scroll technology with CO2 not only for subcritical but with the latest generation of compressors also for transcritical refrigeration applications (picture: Copeland CO2 transcritical variable speed scroll compressor ZTW with dynamic vapor injection DVI). Credit: Emerson

Emerson (NYSE: EMR) ushers in a new era of commercial refrigeration: Copeland scroll technology for CO2refrigeration systems. Combining a new generation of Copeland CO2 scroll compressors with a smart electronics concept, Emerson provides a new solution for CO2 booster systems that enables reduced system complexity and costs while keeping efficiency high in any climate. In addition, a new range of refrigeration units based on this cutting-edge CO2 scroll technology and specifically designed for small to medium sized shops will be introduced in Europe.

Emerson’s new Copeland CO2 scroll technology makes an important contribution to addressing current and future challenges in commercial refrigeration. Not only does it meet the requirements of F-gas regulation and increase energy efficiency: by simplifying refrigeration systems, it facilitates their design and helps to economically open up smaller shop sizes which are becoming increasingly important in the wake of urbanization. With its new technology, Emerson now offers a refrigeration solution that significantly reduces the CO2 cost premium, lowers complexity and can be used in all climates.

Copeland CO2 scroll compressors for trans- and subcritical applications

Emerson introduces three ranges of new generation Copeland CO2 scroll compressors for transcritical (medium temperature) and subcritical (low temperature) operations offering fixed and variable speed models. All compressors are extremely compact, lightweight, and quiet compared to equivalent semi-hermetic compressors commonly used in CO2 refrigeration. They generate less vibration and pulsation in refrigeration systems, improving reliable and safe system operation. This is particularly advantageous for use in noise-sensitive urban environments.

The new range of CO2 scroll compressors for medium temperature applications with fixed speed (ZTI) covers a capacity range from 8 to19kW. Equipped with a dedicated brushless permanent magnet (BPM) motor, the variable speed models (ZTW) enable for additional flexibility while maintaining high efficiency enlarging capacity from 4 up to 36kW. The compressors always operate at optimal speed, rendering inefficient on-off operations obsolete.

In addition, Emerson offers two compressor ranges for low temperature applications, ranging from 6 to 15kW and covering fixed and variable speed models extending capacity up to 27kW. One range for subcritical applications operates with a standstill pressure of up to 110 bar, the other works with a standstill pressure up to 45 bar. The new generation of Copeland CO2 scroll compressors includes a suite of smart electronics, integrated in an efficient and reliable solution for CO2 booster systems that provide CO2 refrigeration from 25 to 100kW MT.

This Copeland CO2 scroll solution allows for applied cost savings up to 14% and seasonal efficiency gains up to 8% versus compression technologies commonly used in today’s CO2 booster systems.

DVI for simplicity and highest efficiency

Emerson not only developed a new generation of scroll compressors, but also an innovative way of dealing with flash gas in its transcritical models: The new technology is called dynamic vapor injection (DVI) and injects vapor refrigerant directly from the flash tank (or from an economizer) into the scroll compressor via an injection valve. This eliminates the need for parallel compression, making CO2 refrigeration systems less complex while delivering higher efficiency. By removing parallel compression less system components, such as parallel compressor, inverter drive or piping, are required. This not only simplifies the system design but also reduces costs for investment, operation or maintenance resulting in a very low total cost of ownership. In addition, the new Copeland CO2 scroll technology can be applied to any climate zone, requiring only one single design for CO2 refrigeration.

Digitalization enables further efficiency

Featuring an intelligent electronics design with the new Copeland XC Pro system controller that monitors, collects, and analyses a wide range of system data, this integrated solution is also able to offer digitalization to retailers. This includes remote diagnostics, predictive maintenance, performance analysis and comprehensive data analytics that enable improved system performance in a simple and efficient manner. In addition, the system can be connected to building management systems (BMS) for holistic smart building integration that improves overall building efficiency and helps refrigeration in retail stores operate smoothly.

Global launch of Copeland CO2 scroll compressors

The unique and broad portfolio of Copeland CO2 solutions for commercial refrigeration applications featuring innovative CO2 scroll technology for simplified system architecture and reduced CO2 cost premium will change the refrigeration market by enabling the large-scale roll-out of CO2 refrigeration regardless of the climate. The introduction of Copeland CO2 scroll compressors will start in the European market and will gradually be extended globally over the coming years. For European markets only, Emerson also introduces a new range of refrigeration units featuring DVI technology and smart electronics.

Copeland CO2 scroll refrigeration units for small and medium-sized shops

This new portfolio of refrigeration units is tailored to the requirements of the European market and encompasses a total of four refrigeration units for medium temperature applications. Ranging from 15 to 50kW of cooling power, they are perfectly suited for decentralized system architectures in small to medium sized supermarket and convenience shops. Each unit is designed for efficient and continuous operation even in the warmest climates. It helps ensure reliable operation up to 44°C ambient.

Equipped with Copeland CO2 scroll compressors in tandem application and frequency inverter drives, the units offer a wide range of capacity modulation avoiding frequent on/off cycles. Pre-configured parameter settings enable time-saving plug & play installation, after which the intelligent control concept keeps operation within safe limits.

With low CO2 scroll compressor vibration levels, latest EC fan technology and night mode control function, these units are also prepared for installation in noise-sensitive environments.

Engineered with a unique modular design concept for different ways of installation, the refrigeration unit allows for maximum flexibility in building integration: packed or split, indoor or outdoor, with a gas cooler that can be placed horizontally, vertically, and self-standing. The perfect choice for urban environments as well as for retailers expanding their shops’ refrigeration capacity where space is limited.