Taking place at the Birmingham NEC on February 25-27, the RAC 2003 exhibition extends the coverage of refrigeration, display counters and icemakers provided by Hospitality Week in January. While primarily aimed at refrigeration distributors and installers, the show provides in-depth insights into many catering refrigeration issues from energy and water efficiency and hygiene to refrigerant choices and disposal.
This year's event has especial significance for refrigeration end-users in view of the extension of the Enhanced Capital Allowance (ECA) rebate scheme in August 2002. Heat pumps, refrigeration controls and compressors, refrigerated cabinets and other items now qualify for a 100 per cent rebate as well as inverter drives and variable speed motors.
This year's introduction of energy labelling of room air conditioners (mandatory from June 1) will also be in evidence, extending a practice already adopted for domestic refrigerators, washing machines and dishwashers. The new colour coded labels grade conditioners into 7 efficiency categories from A to G. The label must be visibly positioned, easy to read and give an immediate indication of the unit's energy efficiency.
Compressor compilation
Hubbard Commercial is dividing its stand into four key market sectors including cellar cooling. Products to be shown include the compact Hubbard Lite for cellars from 30-100 cubic metres.
Another section of the stand will show versions of the new HCP compressor range which delivers from 1.2kW to 7.4kW refrigeration duty at a chill condition of -5°C in ambient temperatures up to +32°C. Further models are available for freezer use and there are enhanced HCPS low noise versions using latest Scroll compressor technology to achieve noise levels of just 39dB(a) at full speed. The additional HCPS sound attenuation kit offers further reductions of up to 20 per cent.
Hubbard Commercial
www.hubbard.co.uk
Mist extends shelf life
Low energy Ultramist chilled display cabinet humidification is to be showcased by JS Humidifiers. Systems are designed to fit into standard refrigerated food display serveries, subjecting cold water to oscillator vibration at ultrasonic frequencies. The resultant micro-fine mist is absorbed directly into the cabinet cold air stream, creating a continuous moisture layer which helps extend shelf-life by up to 50 per cent while retaining product weight.
To aid hygiene, the Ultramist incorporates a UV water sterilisation system within the atomising chamber plus an automatic drain which empties the humidifier when not in use.
JS Humidifiers
www.jshumidifiers.com
Right gas for the job
IDS (Isceon distribution services) is displaying its complete range of refrigerants including Isceon 59 (R417a), the original direct replacement for R22, as used in cellar cooling and self contained display cabinets, etc. Working with the traditional lubricant in new and existing equipment, the new refrigerant is claimed to retain performance while lowering energy costs by up to 10 per cent.
Other products on show include Frionett cleaning products for treatment against fungi, moulds, algae and bacteria (including legionella, salmonella and listeria) in refrigeration and air conditioning systems, plus insulation and refrigerant recovery.
IDS
Icemaker is easily installed
The Scotsman Easyfit range of icemakers to be shown by Hubbard Ice Systems includes latest EC125 and EC175 models. The six strong range incorporates an integral pump system which permits easier installation (below drain height if required).
Hubbard Ice Systems
www.hubbard.co.uk
Taking a stand
Foster is taking a stand at this year's RAC and plans to display its 410 budget upright service cabinet and the new Pro range. The slimline 410 range targets smaller outlets but capacity is a repectable 417 litres. Cabinets are made in white laminate or stainless steel finishes and available in fridge and freezer versions, with optional glass door on the fridges. Prices start from £900.
Foster Refrigerator
www.fosterrefrigerator.co.uk