Recently, Qingdao Tianyicool Co., Ltd. and Xi'an Jiaotong University announced the successful development of their R290 monoblock unit, a breakthrough product designed for small commercial freezers, agricultural product storage, and fishery cold storage. The collaboration combines environmental protection, energy efficiency, and cost optimization to address global refrigeration industry demands for low-carbon solutions.

Targeting the high global warming potential (GWP=3922) of traditional refrigerant R404A, TIANYICOOL, in partnership with Xi'an Jiaotong’s research team, adopted the natural refrigerant R290 (GWP=3) and pioneered small-diameter heat exchangers. This innovation reduces refrigerant charge from 300g to below 150g, minimizing environmental risks from leaks while cutting production costs. Technically, the team optimized condenser and evaporator flow paths through extensive simulations and tests. For the 1P medium-temperature model, the selected "2-2-3-12" condenser and "3-3-5-12" evaporator combination enhanced heat transfer efficiency and compressor COP, achieving a nearly 60% faster low-temperature cooling speed than previous models.

Condenser Flow Path Numbering

Evaporator Fow Path Numbering

Condenser Flow Path Calculation Results

Evaporator Flow Path Calculation Results

The industry-university collaboration has yielded fruitful results across multiple dimensions. In terms of performance, theoretical analyses and experimental research from universities and research institutions, combined with industrial practice, have optimized the flow and heat transfer characteristics of R290 in small-diameter heat exchangers. Economically, the use of R290—an inexpensive natural refrigerant—and reduced material consumption in small-diameter heat exchangers have lowered production costs. In talent cultivation, university faculty and students have deepened their expertise in refrigeration technology, environmentally friendly refrigerants, and heat exchanger design, enhancing their research and technical capabilities. Additionally, the collaboration has strengthened the team’s innovation and problem-solving abilities, fostering closer cooperation and improved efficiency.

The partnership between Qingdao Tianyicool Co., Ltd. and Xi'an Jiaotong University sets a successful example and provides new insights for the green development of the refrigeration industry. Looking ahead, the two parties aim to deepen their collaboration, driving the industry toward a more environmentally friendly and efficient future through continuous innovation.