Eckero Line saves with Gadlab cooling
The system, GadCooler, is said to reduce energy costs by eliminating the need for cooling compressors. Using the same principles as a gas refrigerator, the system relies on existing heat sources to provide chilled water for the cooling system, using a non-toxic absorption fluid (a lithium bromide solution) as the transfer medium.
A 500kW GadCooler unit was installed on the Finlandia, which carries up to 2,000 passengers and 650 vehicles between Helsinki and Tallinn. According to Peter Lundberg, chief engineer onboard the vessel, the unit has exceeded expectations and “remarkable savings” are expected.
The cooler is available as one or several units, each with a cooling power of up to 5,000kW and is fitted with a control system to optimise cooling efficiency. GadCooler was developed by Gadlab with funding from Tekes, the Finnish innovation fund, and has received system approval from DNV GL.
On big cruise ships operating in tropical conditions cooling can consume as much as some 10MW of power. The elimination of cooling compressors reduces this power demand dramatically, explained Markus Nuotio, managing director, Gadlab Engineering.
“Only a small amount of energy is needed for the transfer pumps, resulting in fuel savings and also in less emissions,” Nuotio said. “The result is an energy-saving, efficient, quiet, and vibration-free cooler with a short payback time for the owner.”
GadLab, which has a patent pending for the cooling technology, noted that the system is almost maintenance free, and can be installed during a normal service docking.
