Congebec expanding GTA footprint
Congebec Inc. is nearly doubling the size of its temperature controlled storage facility in Mississauga, Ontario. The facility will grow from 170,000 sq. ft. to 232,600 sq. ft., and increase storage capacity by 12,000 pallets.
In early 2018, Congebec became North America’s very first company to equip itself with central refrigeration systems from Frick. In an industry where the issue of ammonia concentration is crucial to employee safety and a smaller environment footprint, this low charge central system (LCCS), has made it possible to reduce ammonia concentrations by 90 percent compared with conventional systems.
Frick’s central refrigeration system offers a complete low-charge solution with compressors, evaporators, condensers, and controls. It allows greater performance in addition to remote distributed condensing.
The system significantly reduces ammonia charge (1.5-3 lb/TR) and posts strong investment returns. Its water supply via open circuit reduces bacterial growth. It also provides multiple heat recovery possibilities.
The system will be the biggest built on an industrial scale to date. “Congebec is the only Canadian company that has one,” said Peter Reeve, contract sales at CIMCO Refrigeration which distributes the Frick systems.
Having worked with the LCCS for three years, Congebec’s team has mastered this new technology, and become experts in this unique refrigeration system that will also be used in the new construction.
Power conditioning
To further assist in saving energy and reducing power usage, this facility will be equipped with power conditioning, an electric energy saving system to filter and optimize power quality and maximize energy savings. This will allow the facility to avoid blackouts and will provide Congebec with a more reliable operation.
The freezer/cooler design will include an efficient building envelop that reduces heat islands with its unique white roof.
Additionally, a dehumidification system will be installed for the office space. A green space will be built following the construction of the expansion to help balance its carbon footprint and reverse construction emissions.
“We aim to continue our mission to connect food to the world by working to feature innovative and energy efficient operations in our facilities, therefore aligning with our values and our sustainable development initiatives,” said Nicholas Pedneault, president and CEO of Congebec.
“Our modern construction in Toronto will ensure high-quality and safe food products to our customers and to consumers,”