Carrier Chillers on Lower GWP Refrigerant Selected for Oxford University Laboratories

Carrier chillers operating on the lower global warming potential (GWP) refrigerant R-32 have been selected to provide energy-efficient cooling for three world-renowned medical science laboratories at Oxford University. 

Four Carrier AquaSnap 30RBP air-cooled scroll chillers with Greenspeed intelligence have been installed at the Henry Wellcome Building for Genomic Medicine, the Weatherall Institute of Molecular Medicine at the John Radcliffe Hospital, and the University's Old Road Campus Research Building, a leading institution in cancer research. The Carrier chillers were specified by Heaton Design and Engineering Ltd, a leading building services consultant based in Witney, Oxon.

The high-efficiency Carrier chillers operating on R-32 were specified in accordance with Oxford University's sustainability strategy of achieving net zero carbon emissions by 2035. This requires energy efficiency improvements and reductions in greenhouse gas emissions from buildings across its estate, while at the same time enhancing occupant comfort and productivity. The Carrier R-32 units replaced less efficient chillers that were at end of their working life, delivering a significant improvement in the seasonal energy efficiency ratio (SEER) for the Carrier replacements.

The University estate's sustainability plan also includes adopting long-life, low environmental impact, low maintenance solutions that minimise external impacts and costs over the lifetime of equipment. In support of this goal, the Carrier chillers were treated with super enviroshield condenser coating to protect the aluminium heat exchange surfaces from corrosion and significantly extend their working life. As a result, the condensers are covered by an extended seven-year Carrier warranty.

The AquaSnap chiller is designed to deliver high-performance and optimal energy consumption in demanding applications. Its combination of outstanding energy efficiency, intelligent controls, connectivity and real-time data access give end users the tools to proactively manage buildings for optimum occupant comfort and efficiency. Innovative, efficient solutions such as AquaSnap 30RBP chillers support Carrier’s 2030 Environmental, Social & Governance (ESG) Goal of reducing customer's carbon footprint by more than 1 gigaton.

The fast-track project, carried out by installer Aircon Services Ltd, enabled the laboratories to continue operating without loss of building services support while meeting the tight timetable for completion.