AsianScientist (July 14, 2017) – Scientific laboratories—home to dedicated researchers, sophisticated equipment and groundbreaking discoveries—are an integral component of R&D. But at the same time, these facilities are extremely resource-intensive, consuming five to eight times as much energy as typical office space.
The good news? By adopting energy conservation practices, most laboratories could potentially cut their energy consumption by as much as 50 percent. Doing so not only benefits the environment by leaving a smaller carbon footprint, but also brings down energy costs.
The high cost of chilling
While laboratories face unique challenges when it comes to conserving energy, researchers can still do their part to make a difference. One effective strategy is to select and purchase laboratory equipment with energy-saving features. Freezers, refrigerators, incubators, water baths and autoclaves account for almost 50 percent of a laboratory’s total energy use. Of these, freezers, which must maintain ultra-low temperatures (down to -86°C in some cases) 24 hours a day, are particularly energy-intensive. They account for about 26 percent of the energy consumed by laboratory equipment.
Fortunately, with improvements in technology, electricity consumption looks set to go down. Newer, more energy-efficient freezer models are better insulated and use more effective refrigerants, and can run on as little as half the electricity consumed by older models.
Reduce your lab’s carbon footprint with Panasonic Healthcare’s VIP HC series freezers
Panasonic Healthcare’s VIP HC series -86°C ultra-low freezers minimize energy consumption and save costs, while keeping samples securely stored at all times. These green freezers consume up to 40 percent less energy than conventional models by incorporating the following technologies.
Natural refrigerants
VIP HC series freezers use natural hydrocarbon refrigerants, which have low global warming potential, and cool more efficiently due to their high latent heat of evaporation. As a result, smaller compressors can be used, leading to improved energy efficiency.
Improved heat exchange
A unique heat exchanger design allows for a greater surface area of contact at critical points in the cooling system, improving overall efficiency and reducing compressor running time.
Effective, space-saving insulation
Panasonic Healthcare’s revolutionary VIP PLUS vacuum insulation technology halves wall thickness, allowing for up to 30 percent more storage capacity than a conventionally insulated freezer. At the same time, the technology’s advanced thermal insulation properties improve energy efficiency.
Asian Scientist Magazine is a media partner of Panasonic Healthcare.
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Copyright: Asian Scientist Magazine; Photo: Shutterstock.
Disclaimer: This article does not necessarily reflect the views of AsianScientist or its staff.
