Star Quality Cooling For Brakes Distribution
Brakes has invested in a bespoke cooling system from Star Refrigeration for its landmark multi-temperature distribution centre in Berkshire.
Brakes recently established a state-of-the-art temperature controlled storage and distribution centre near Reading. Brakes is a leading supplier to the UK foodservice industry and the brand new purpose built facility forms part of the company’s continued drive for sustained growth.
With an overriding commitment to reduce environmental impact, Brakes awarded the refrigeration contract to Star following a competitive tender process. A world leader in cooling and heating system innovation, Glasgow-based Star designed, supplied, installed and commissioned a bespoke refrigeration plant for cold and chill stores at the new facility.
Star’s Director of Sales – Food Market, James Ward, says: “Energy efficiency and reduced carbon footprint were key factors in securing the cooling contract for the new Brakes facility in Reading. As well as offering a competitively priced bespoke system, we selected high quality components and built-in design features such as reverse cycle defrost and floating head pressure control, to maximise efficiency and significantly reduce energy consumption.”
He adds: “Rising energy costs are putting increasing pressure on temperature controlled storage and distribution businesses. With refrigeration accounting for up to 80% of total energy consumption in warehouse facilities, plant design and efficiency is key to cost saving and energy management.”
Star’s multi-temperature cooling system for Brakes comprises four LPR (low pressure receiver) refrigeration units. The packaged LPR plant has an ultra low charge of ammonia and is designed with energy saving features for highly efficient operation.
The plant features two direct ammonia LPR systems, which supply cooling to a frozen food cold store
(-21ºC) via four ceiling evaporators. Two ammonia/glycol chillers supply cooling to a chill store for meat products (+1ºC), a banana store (+13ºC) and vehicle loading bays via 13 ceiling mounted air coolers.
Star has a long standing working relationship with Brakes, installing systems in depots across its UK network. As well as supplying cooling solutions for Brakes over many years, Star’s nationwide refrigeration engineering team continues to deliver planned, preventative maintenance support to ensure ongoing plant safety, reliability and efficiency.
When it comes to designing energy efficient cooling and heating systems, Star is a natural innovator. Star works with strategic partners across the globe to deliver low carbon, cost saving solutions. For more information, phone Star Refrigeration on 0141 638 7916
