12 March 2025
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From left, Robert King (RAC Engineering), Eryk Witasik (PCCPL) and Mervin Chumun (AFR Refrigeration)
Commercial and industrial wholesale specialist AFR Refrigeration has helped deliver a CO₂ (R744) refrigeration project for a major UK retailer using Panasonic Cold Chain Poland ICOOL-CO₂ units.
While specific details about the retailer and the installation are not publicly available, AFR says the project highlights the growing trend of using CO₂ as a natural refrigerant in the UK retail sector, with low global warming potential (GWP) and non-ozone depleting properties, making it a sustainable alternative to traditional synthetic refrigerants.
The system in Sutton, South West London, will provide efficient cooling for the supermarket's freezer aisle cabinets. PCCPL worked closely with AFR Refrigeration to design and implement a bespoke solution while adhering to the highest industry standards. Although the installation process, theoretically, presented unique challenges, the technical solution and the installation went smoothly with standard units from PCCPL. The team from contractor RAC Engineering ensured a seamless and efficient installation, minimising disruption to the client's operations.
The installation consists of 2x ICOOL-15 CO₂ units each with an additional external receiver on each system due to the extreme pipe length (over 70m). Always by the side of the customer, AFR Refrigeration and manufacturer were on site during commissioning to assist with final checks and set up. Eryk Witasik of PCCPL supported the commissioning process and both systems ran perfectly on first start-up, with the handover from RAC Engineering on schedule.
AFR Refrigeration Managing Director Rudy Reginiano said: “We are incredibly proud to have spearheaded this R744 installation in the UK along with our dedicated contractor customer, RAC Engineering. R744 represents the future of refrigeration, and we are confident that its adoption will continue to grow.”
Senior Technical Specialist for AFR Refrigeration, Mervin Chumun, added: “Sustainability is a key priority for our business and our clients, and we were impressed with Panasonic Cold Chain Poland's expertise in R744 technology. This new system not only reduces our carbon footprint but also offers long-term cost benefits due to its high energy efficiency.”
RAC Engineering Design Director Glen Collins said: “After discussions with AFR, we picked the ICOOL-CO₂ units as they offered the perfect solution for this site. With the remote receiver option this allows for longer run lengths, this unit stands head and shoulders above its rivals.”
Theo Massa, Area Sales Manager UK & Ireland for Panasonic Cold Chain Poland, said: “Collaborating with AFR Refrigeration is always a great pleasure and so easy. The team has a great understanding of the PCCPL product range and capabilities and Mervin Chumun brings an extra technical touch to move forward with R744 solutions.
