Maersk Container Industry (MCI) has unveiled the Star Cool 1.1, a new advancement in its commitment to fostering sustainable global cold chains.
This state-of-the-art reefer technology is designed to meet modern requirements with cutting-edge features that significantly reduce environmental impact.
“After completion of an extensive R&D and verification program, we are excited to offer our customers the first reefer solution that offers adaptability to three alternative refrigerants while operating with the highest energy efficiency in the market – thereby delivering a significant advancement in reducing the environmental impact from reefer container operation,” stated Søren Leth Johannsen, CEO at MCI.
According to a statement, the Star Cool 1.1 uses the climate-friendly refrigerant R1234yf, which has an ultra-low Global Warming Potential (GWP). This makes it an industry first, as it effectively eliminates greenhouse gas emissions from refrigerants while maintaining high energy efficiency.
In its pursuit of decarbonizing the shipping sector, the Star Cool 1.1 also demonstrates improved energy efficiency, consuming 8% less power than previous models thanks to advancements in compressor technology and design optimization. The next-generation compressor technology builds on the proven principles and quality of its predecessors, providing faster temperature control and better cargo care.
Additionally, the unit features a built-in energy meter that records energy usage and transmits this data wirelessly via the Sekstant solution. This system tracks energy savings and translates the data into carbon footprint information for specific voyages or periods, giving operators valuable insights into their environmental impact.
The adaptability of the Star Cool 1.1 ensures it stays relevant amidst evolving global refrigerant regulations and environmental standards, balancing sustainability with operational excellence for the future. Just as in nature, the best-adapted thrive.
“The Star Cool 1.1 is a significant innovation in our quest to support the decarbonization of the shipping industry. Its ability to operate efficiently across multiple refrigerant options not only highlights its flexibility but also its readiness to meet both current and future safety and environmental standards. We have thoroughly field-tested the upgraded Star Cool system and it is instrumental in our efforts to achieve lower energy consumption and reduced emissions, aligning with our long-term sustainability goals. Star Cool with the SC1.1 set the bar in our industry, that will need to standardize towards its future refrigerant programs for newbuild reefer equipment, along with that of the service networks that will be required to support the reefers of the future,” commented Paul Clarke, Head of Reefer Technology and Innovation at Maersk liner business.
