Sustainable Refrigeration Technology Behind the BioArc™ Ultra

August 5, 2024
Powering the Future of Sustainable Sample Storage

The Cutting-Edge Sustainable Refrigeration Technology Behind the BioArc™ Ultra

What’s behind the revolutionary new cold-air technology used to power the Azenta BioArc Ultra  -80°C High-Density Automated Sample Storage System?

This breakthrough in sustainable high-density storage automation by Azenta Life Sciences, the global leader in sample storage automation, was supported by MIRAI Intex, a leading provider of innovative refrigeration technology; and Refolution GmbH, a German engineering firm specializing in sustainable cooling technology integrations. 

Read more about the technology integration  

Do you want to place a request? Contact Azenta

Introducing A New Type Of Air Cooling System

The use of MIRAI Intex's air cycle refrigeration units in the Azenta BioArc system underlines a commitment to reducing the environmental impact of ultra-low temperature freezers used for sample storage and biobanking. Using recirculated air to create a cooling effect, this revolutionary new technology not only reduces energy consumption but also eliminates the need for potentially harmful chemical refrigerants, aligning with global efforts to promote sustainability in scientific research, biobanking, and healthcare.

The MIRAI air cycle technology delivers environmental advantages, including using less power and having zero carbon emissions, along with the ability to maintain consistent temperatures, critical for the preservation of sensitive biological samples.

The BioArc Ultra uses a new type of open cycle refrigeration technology developed by MIRAI Intex,  and adapted for the Ultra by Azenta with engineering support from Refolution. 

Read more about how the cold air refrigeration works.

Many Advantages of Using Air Instead of Refrigerants 

Since the system uses air instead of other chemicals, this eliminates the need to replenish refrigerants, or to do refrigerant testing. This means less time spent on maintenance, and lower running costs. It also makes the system more eco-friendly, as it doesn’t create ozone-depleting substances. Nor contain greenhouse gasses.

Furthermore, all manufacturing processes at MIRAI Intex, ensuring the production of refrigeration systems, adhere strictly to the ISO 9001:2015 certification. This commitment guarantees stable operation, even under the most demanding conditions. Our systems provide a secure solution devoid of chemically active substances, eliminating any risks of fire or explosion.

 

Azenta BioArc™ Ultra High Density -80°C Automated Sample Storage System

The BioArc™ Ultra is an advanced automated sample management system with market-leading density and air-based refrigeration that prioritizes environmental compliance, supports energy reduction, and enhances efficiency.

  • Accommodates up to 16.92 M 0.9 ml tubes
  • Uses up to 77 % less power*
  • Requires up to 73 % less floor space *
  • Zero Global Warming Potential (GWP)**

*Compared to equivalent manual freezers. Estimated using historical averages for electricity costs and assumptions made by Azenta related to your existing equipment and floor plan.

**Zero Global Warming Potential (GWP) and zero Ozone Depletion Potential.

 

Project Overview

Designed to address the growing need for large-scale storage across diverse sample formats, the BioArc Ultra redefines -80°C automated storage systems, putting energy efficiency and sustainability at the forefront. The BioArc Ultra offers unrivaled sample storage density, an eco-friendly refrigeration system that delivers substantial energy savings, and precision sample retrieval capabilities.

As a space- and energy-saving alternative to manual freezer farms, the Ultra delivers unmatched efficiency with reduced labor requirements and lower running costs. From large-scale sample storage/warehousing and biobanking to biological and vaccine research, manufacturing, and clinical applications, the BioArc Ultra stands ready to meet the diverse needs of today’s dynamic scientific landscape and cold chain logistics.

The new system promises to save space and energy while making great strides in sustainability: delivering eco-friendly technology with zero Global Warming Potential (GWP) and zero Ozone Depletion Potential (ODP). The system generates a Total Equivalent Warming Impact (TEWI) that is up to 79% less than the equivalent number of manual freezers.

Watch the 3D Tour                       

Savings Calculator 

Find out how much space, energy, and money you could potentially save using the BioArc Ultra.

  • How much might you reduce your power consumption?
  • How much floor space could you save?
  • How many more samples might you be able to store?
  • What labor savings might you gain?

Try the calculator now. Go to BioArc™ Ultra Annual Savings Estimate Calculator.

Do you have a question about MIRAI technology?  Contact us directly: sales@mirai-intex.com 

For questions about the BioArc Ultra, visit Azenta.com