Simplify CO₂ Systems With Integrated Copeland Compression and Controls

Adoption of CO₂-based refrigeration is on the rise in U.S. food retail markets. As supermarket owners and operators transition from legacy hydrofluorocarbon (HFC) refrigerants, many are evaluating CO₂ in their next-generation equipment strategies. Offering a combination of low global warming potential (GWP) and energy-efficient performance, this natural refrigerant can also help retailers to meet their long-term sustainability objectives. In a recent E360 article, I explored the benefits of Copeland’s approach to developing fully integrated, CO₂-qualified compression, controls and components.

Like any refrigerant, R-744 has unique thermophysical characteristics that impact system design, installation and management. With more than a decade of investments in CO₂-specific research and development (R&D), Copeland is leading the advancement of integrated CO₂ technologies. Our R&D efforts continue to focus on minimizing operational challenges and leveraging CO₂’s sustainability benefits:

• Effectively managing CO₂’s high pressures
• Maximizing CO₂’s potential for heat reclamation and/or sustainability purposes
• Optimizing CO₂ system efficiencies in multiple climate zones in North America

CO₂ transcritical booster systems provide a proven sustainable alternative for retailers seeking a centralized replacement to traditional direct expansion (DX) HFC systems. These systems have been deployed globally for more than a decade and are designed to use R-744 for both medium-temperature (MT) and low-temperature (LT) refrigeration loads. Today’s first-time adopters of CO₂ can leverage years of field research and technological improvements to apply the latest system design techniques.

Controls to automate, manage and connect

Copeland has created an integrated network of system- and case-level controls to help food retailers oversee system management and enable deep visibility into CO₂ system performance. Built-in connectivity simplifies the installation, management and maintenance of CO₂ systems.

The E3 supervisory control for CO₂ applications is the CO₂-specific version of Copeland’s next-generation facility management and refrigeration control platform. Delivering advanced CO₂ refrigeration management and control in an easy-to-use platform, the E3 CO₂ enables visibility to compressor performance, high-pressure controllers and case controllers from one centralized location. It’s designed to optimize system performance in multiple ways:

• Alleviates set-up complexities by consolidating multiple applications into one workflow
• Reduces start-up time via a simplified, one-time tuning of system parameters
• Supports system design optimization strategies (e.g., adiabatic gas cooler, parallel compression, etc.)
• Enables user-defined customization of required system values into one view

The stand-alone CC200 case controller is designed to provide robust case control and communication with the E3 CO₂, E3, E2 and Site Supervisor controls. As part of a connected infrastructure, it helps to bring a facility’s network of refrigerated cases into one view for:

• Simplified CO₂ system management
• Tight temperature control
• Remote case monitoring
• Modular support for multi-evaporator cases
• Bluetooth® connectivity for quick troubleshooting (and mobile app integration)
• Alarms and notifications monitoring
• Demand defrost support for energy optimization

The XM600 Series of advanced controllers delivers reliable performance, integration with Copeland’s entire supervisory platform and control over CO₂ case networks to:

• Manage defrost cycles
• Initiate clean mode function
• Support multiple probe regulation

CO₂-rated compression technologies

Since the early days of CO₂ refrigeration in the U.S., Copeland has helped to lead the R&D and application of state-of-the-art CO₂ compression technologies. Our commitment to innovation has resulted in continuous improvements in reliability, performance and energy efficiency. Copeland compressors are equipped with on-board electronics to enable communication with the E3 CO₂, E3 and E2 supervisory controls and deliver a variety of operational benefits:

• Electronic protection and control improve system reliability and visibility
• Predictive diagnostics enable early detection while avoiding major repairs
• Remote and on-board communication support fast, off-site troubleshooting
• Simplified rack wiring reduces system start-up complexities

These capabilities help end users to reduce downtime while giving technicians access to data insights that help them to quickly diagnose and repair CO₂ systems.

Copeland ZO compressors bring the legendary reliability and performance of Copeland scroll to CO₂ refrigeration applications:

• Supports LT (subcritical) loads
• Offers a discrete small footprint and low noise levels
• Enables digital capacity modulation from 10 to 100 percent

Copeland semi-hermetic CO₂ compressors leverage the industry’s most utilized and trusted platform in the U.S. food retail market. The Copeland 4MTLS Series is designed for MT transcritical applications while the Copeland 4MSLS Series supports LT subcritical uses. Advantages include:

• Provides complete compression solution for a CO₂ transcritical booster system
• Pairs with Copeland variable frequency drives, EVM/EVH Series
• Offers low oil circulation rates
• Operates with low sound and minimal vibration
• Can withstand higher stand-still pressures

From advanced leak detection devices and pressure sensors to bypass valves and oil-level controls, Copeland offers a full suite of controls and components to enable seamless integration of CO₂ systems. To learn more about the emergence and application of CO₂ refrigeration in commercial refrigeration, please visit our CO₂ resource center.