Introduction of the CO₂ Refrigeration System and Case Studies of CU Convenience Stores and Baekyangsa Nonghyup Hanaro Mart
On February 6, Arneg Korea participated as a presenter at the "CO₂ Activation Seminar Through Outstanding Installation Cases," organized and hosted by Kharn and Cold Chain. During the event, Arneg Korea introduced its CO₂ refrigeration system and shared real-world application cases. This seminar was organized to promote the adoption and activation of CO₂ natural refrigerants in the domestic refrigeration industry, bringing together experts to discuss technological trends and practical applications.
Arneg Korea has been at the forefront of CO₂ refrigeration solutions in Korea, starting in 2008 by applying a CO₂ transcritical cycle to Homeplus stores. In 2019, the company became the first in Korea to implement a DC inverter CO₂ transcritical cycle at CU convenience stores. By 2024, Arneg Korea had established the nation's first CO₂ transcritical refrigeration and freezing system at Baekyangsa Nonghyup Hanaro Mart, successfully implementing CO₂ refrigerant solutions across eight stores to continuously prove their effectiveness.
At Baekyangsa Nonghyup Hanaro Mart, Arneg Korea's CO₂ refrigeration system operates 20 evaporators with a single 35-horsepower compressor. Compared to an R404A CDU of the same capacity, the system has improved its coefficient of performance (COP) by 150%, allowing customers to save approximately KRW 100 million in annual electricity costs while significantly reducing CO₂ emissions. This achievement is not merely the result of a compressor replacement but rather a testament to Arneg Korea's expertise in optimally selecting compressors and integrating various applications such as parallel compression, ejectors, and pump-down systems tailored to each store's needs.
To ensure the stable operation of CO₂ refrigerants, which require handling pressures exceeding 100 bar, Arneg Korea has implemented optimized system designs, pressure regulation systems with by-pass kits attached to showcases, gas leak detection systems, and safety valves. These enhancements maximize both reliability and safety.
Arneg Korea possesses differentiated technical capabilities across the entire process, from designing and manufacturing to installing and operating CO₂ refrigeration systems. The company also utilizes a self-developed CO₂ system design tool, enabling automated 2D/3D drawing generation and optimized piping design.
At the seminar, Arneg Korea emphasized that CO₂ refrigerant systems are not just a simple refrigerant transition but a comprehensive refrigeration and freezing solution tailored to each store’s environment and customer requirements. The company also discussed the expansion potential of CO₂ refrigerant applications in domestic and international markets. Looking ahead, Arneg Korea is committed to ongoing research and development to advance high-efficiency and eco-friendly CO₂ refrigerant technology, contributing to industry-wide carbon emission reductions.
Hwang Jun-ha, Executive Director of Arneg Korea, stated, "CO₂ refrigerant is the optimal solution that meets both sustainability and economic feasibility, serving as a key technology in accelerating carbon neutrality in the refrigeration and freezing industry." He added, "We will continue to develop high-efficiency, reliable, and cost-effective CO₂ refrigeration systems, leading the global eco-friendly refrigerant market."