Somerset-based ECH Engineering has made a six figure investment in a new refrigeration test facility, south of Bristol.
The initiative has been supported by
Adande Refrigeration, which will be using the laboratory to accelerate the development of its Aircell technology.
The plant has been custom designed by ECH Engineering's principal, Dr Ed Hammond, and Adande's managing director, Ian Wood, to provide a research, testing and development laboratory with a minimal carbon footprint. Staffed by three PhDs, the facility is adopting a scientific and technical approach to the testing and development of refrigerated display equipment, to the industry recognised standard BS EN ISO 23953.
The 160sqm laboratory provides the capacity for the testing and development of four refrigerated cabinets. A planned second phase of the project will see floor space doubled, creating the capacity for additional cabinets.
Dr Ed Hammond reported: 'We have been closely involved in the evolution of Aircell and the establishment of the test facility will allow us to dedicate additional resources to its ongoing development. The laboratory will also be available to third parties, seeking refrigeration research and development services.'
Adande chairman, Nigel Bell, added: 'Aircell is a significant initiative in the refrigerated display sector, which has attracted considerable interest from major multiple retailers and equipment manufacturers, in the UK and worldwide. This new facility will help us accelerate the delivery of Aircell technology to the marketplace.'