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Revolution from Darmstadt: Smart cooling bin saves 30% energy!
Darmstadt: New magnetocaloric cooling technology from Dr. Fries and Benke revolutionizes refrigeration to make it 30% more efficient.
Revolution from Darmstadt: Smart cooling bin saves 30% energy!
Traditional cooling has no alternatives in many households and businesses: conventional refrigerators that work with compressors and use gas to regulate the temperature are widespread. But this method is anything but sustainable - it is energy-intensive, harmful to the environment and, last but not least, expensive. A ray of hope for everyone who values efficient and environmentally friendly solutions now comes from Darmstadt: Dr. Maximilian Fries and Dimitri Benke have developed a revolutionary technology that is said to make cooling up to 30 percent more efficient. MDR reports that the innovative solution uses the magnetocaloric effect, in which materials heat up under the influence of a magnetic field and cool down as soon as the field is removed.
The concept is already being tested in practice: In some supermarkets, the innovation is being tested in an 85 liter refrigerated bin. A supermarket manager from Darmstadt has agreed to try out this technology in his store. Refrigeration technology expert Prof. Dr.-Ing. Robin Langebach from Greiz sees great potential in this development and recognizes the advantages of the magnetocaloric process.
Energy efficiency and environmental friendliness
What does this technology bring for the future? A lot! Magnetocaloric cooling could set a whole new standard. The current focus of research is the production of cooling systems based on these principles. Fraunhofer IPM, for example, develops special magnetocaloric cooling systems and heat pumps. These use a patented process in which a fluid transports heat through evaporation and condensation. This means they achieve a cooling performance density that is many times better than conventional systems. Fraunhofer IPM offers all-round support for the industry in the design and construction of these systems.
A significant advantage of magnetocaloric cooling is that it does not require harmful refrigerants - this not only means increased energy efficiency, but also a friendly balance for the environment. In addition, the devices are generally quieter in operation than their conventional counterparts. With these properties, magnetic cooling becomes a promising alternative for household appliances such as refrigerators and air conditioners.
Technical details and outlook
How does the magnetocaloric effect work specifically? It describes the change in temperature of materials caused by a change in the magnetic field. Similar to other cooling methods, the material heats up when magnetized and cools when the magnetic field is removed. The key to success lies in the magnetocaloric coefficient, which indicates how strongly a material behaves under magnetic fields. Factors such as the material composition and the magnetic field strength play a decisive role here. SAMaterials has provided comprehensive information that underlines the potential of magnetic refrigeration.
With this technology, which is not only environmentally friendly, we are on the threshold of a cooler, more sustainable age. Whether in supermarkets or private households – the possibilities are promising. And that's not all: research doesn't stand still, and the development of completely new materials could further improve the efficiency of magnetocaloric cooling in the future.