G&D Chillers chooses Frascold for the Elite 290 series
An innovative solution serving New Belgium Brewing
G&D Chillers chooses Frascold compressors for the Elite 290 series, an innovative and sustainable solution for New Belgium Brewing.
G&D Chillers, known for producing the most reliable premium chillers used in commercial brewing, wine, food processing and other manufacturing industries for more than 30 years, has selected the Frascold Z model piston compressors for its new Elite 290 chiller series. This innovative line, designed to be at the forefront of sustainable refrigeration, represents a significant step forward in adopting propane technology in the U.S., focusing on high-efficiency, low environmental impact solutions.
The Elite 290 series uses propane (R290) as a natural refrigerant, perfectly aligned with global regulations aimed at reducing both direct and indirect emissions associated with the Global Warming Potential (GWP) of refrigerants. Already widely used in Europe and the U.K., propane is gaining popularity in North America, where G&D Chillers has committed to making it the foundation of their sustainability efforts. With an almost zero GWP, this technology not only drastically reduces environmental impact but also offers significant energy savings while maintaining safety.
The partnership with Frascold
G&D Chillers selected Frascold’s semi-hermetic piston compressors as the core of the Elite 290 series. These compressors stand out for their compact design, quiet operation and high efficiency. Additionally, their compatibility with various refrigerants makes them a versatile solution, suitable for the most demanding industrial applications.
Paul Johnson, Technical Director and R&D at G&D Chillers, expressed his appreciation for the partnership: “Thanks to Frascold’s proven expertise in propane applications and the reliability of their Z model compressors, we’ve developed a highly efficient system, reducing the gas charge to just 6 lbs per circuit, which is only 30% of what you'd find in a typical home barbecue. Frascold has proven to be a strategic partner, whose expertise was essential to the successful introduction of our Elite 290 series in the North American market.”
Setting a new standard for sustainable refrigeration
The refrigeration industry is continuously evolving, driven by international regulations that also demand a significant reduction in GWP. G&D Chillers’ Elite 290 series, equipped with Frascold compressors, marks a breakthrough in this context, offering customers safe and efficient refrigeration solutions. Capable of operating under critical conditions, propane technology provides an effective response to the growing demand for sustainability, minimizing emissions and energy costs.
New Belgium Brewing: pioneers of sustainability
Among the first to adopt the Elite 290 series is New Belgium Brewing, one of the largest craft breweries in the U.S. and a certified B Corporation since 2012. The brewery has long been committed to environmental protection and climate change issues. With the company’s goal to certify all brands as Carbon Neutral by 2030, the collaboration with G&D Chillers will continue the company’s progress towards reducing the use of HFCs in their refrigeration systems.
Andy Collins, New Belgium Brewing’s Carbon Neutral Engineer., stated: "Our partnership with G&D Chillers has demonstrated that high global warming potential refrigerants, such as HFCs, can be eliminated, helping New Belgium make strides toward our climate action goals."
G&D Chillers’ Elite 290 series, powered by Frascold’s propane compressors, represents a new frontier in commercial and industrial refrigeration in the U.S. With cutting-edge solutions that combine sustainability, efficiency and high performance, G&D Chillers and Frascold are redefining industry standards, offering innovative technologies for a low-impact environmental future.
