Upgrading and replacing assets such as refrigeration equipment requires careful attention not only to cost and efficiency but also compliance, advises Mohammed Choudhury.
When specifying for research, laboratory and pharmaceutical refrigeration, it is essential appliances meet the most stringent requirements. Precise electronic controls, a forced-air cooling system and highly effective insulation work together to ensure outstanding energy efficiency, so that operating costs remain low but performance is not compromised.
Compliance is a non-negotiable when it comes to lab refrigeration. It remains a priority for all laboratory appliances to be stringently compliant against industry regulations, so that users can rest assured they are safe and reliable. This includes those pertaining to flammability, storage, temperature control and monitoring.
Rather than just trusting suppliers at their word, specifiers should always choose officially certified appliances to guarantee the safety, longevity and reliability of their facilities and products
Spark-free refrigeration that guarantees safer operations in accordance with IEC 61010-2-011/IEC 60335-2-89 is top of the agenda, and the ATEX 95 certification attests that laboratory refrigerators and freezers are explosion-proof, and suitable for the storage of explosive and highly flammable materials.
Equally important is DIN 13277. Laboratory and pharmacy refrigerators should meet all the necessary features and performance criteria to fully comply with this, a regulation that defines the requirements and test specifications for refrigerators and freezers used for storing medicinal products. Rather than just trusting suppliers at their word, specifiers should always choose officially certified appliances to guarantee the safety, longevity and reliability of their facilities and products.
Furthermore, specifiers should prioritise appliances that are designed according to the EN 60068-3 standard regarding maximum temperature stability. It is important to look to commercial appliances that are specially constructed for intensive professional use, and feature sturdy designs, the highest-quality materials and perfect craftsmanship down to the smallest detail. All electronic and refrigeration components are well balanced to ensure maximum functionality and efficiency, ideal for the storing of valuable and temperature-sensitive materials.
As well as an increased demand for appliances that are compliant, refrigeration monitoring in labs, pharmaceutical facilities and modern
research are of equal importance and can add tangible value to users. This is because precision electronic controls and accurate temperature settings are essential for those handling temperature-sensitive materials. Smart technology allows researchers to keep a close and constant eye on sensitive substances, helping to keep temperatures stable and ensure fridge contents are protected from damage, particularly when even a miniscule change in temperature can have a significant impact.
Specifying appliances with technology that allows users to track and monitor the temperature of appliances remotely is also key, minimising risk of damage even while outside of work. Integrated visual and audible alarm systems warn the user of undesired temperature deviations, ensuring essential safety measures 24 hours a day, 365 days a year.
Energy efficiency continues to be a top priority for laboratories as they seek ways to minimise energy consumption. As such, energy efficient appliances are crucial for those looking to champion more efficient practices. Look out for appliances made from high-quality materials, perfectly detailed finishes and elite cooling components – they will be more reliable in the long term and provide greater energy efficiency that can help save money by lowering the running costs.
It is more important than ever for laboratories to invest in high-quality, compliant appliances equipped with innovative technology, which is why all Liebherr laboratory appliances are subject to elaborate tests prior to leaving the production facility to ensure they are compliant, reliable and highly efficient.
While this has always been a non-negotiable, it is more important than ever as the industry continues to strive towards improved energy efficiency, lower operating costs, and to maintain safe, reliable storage.
Mohammed Choudhury is UK Research & Laboratory national sales manager at Liebherr UK
