Danfoss marks 10 years with Turbocor

USA: Danfoss has marked 10 years as owner of the pioneering Turbocor oil-free, magnetic bearing compressor.

Established in Tallahassee, Florida, by inventor Ron Conry in 1994, Turbocor Compressors entered into a 50/50 joint venture agreement with Danfoss in 2004 before acquiring full ownership in 2013.

Over the years, Turbocor compressors have been recognised with multiple industry awards for its versatile and unmatched efficiency, with low GWP refrigerant compatibility.

The oil-free, magnetic bearing technology is known for zero performance degradation over the life of the compressor, reducing maintenance and replacement costs. The permanent magnet motors and variable-speed drives provide efficiency at both full and part loads. Their flexibility to be used in air cooled, water cooled or evaporative cooled chillers operating across a wide range of applications such as comfort cooling, low temperature process, ice storage and heat recovery, has resulted in over 130,000 compressors being installed around the world.

“From the beginning, we knew this technology was transformative; the cutting-edge technology combined with our strong manufacturing and sales network enabled us to provide our customers with solutions to improve operating performance and reach unprecedented energy efficiency levels,” commented Danfoss Turbocor president Ricardo Schneider. 

Globally, Danfoss Turbocor is continuing to grow its footprint, with an expanded facility in Haiyan, China opening next year, and the establishment of a configuration centre in Danfoss’ HQ in Nordborg, Denmark. The Nordborg site currently handles sales and service for Turbocor’s European customers; a new production facility is scheduled for completion in 2026.

At its headquarters in Tallahassee, Danfoss Turbocor continues to build collaborations with local institutions. In 2021, the company began a five-year partnership with FAMU-FSU College of Engineering, providing $750,000 of scholarships and research grants to first-generation or under-represented minority students, to develop engineering talent in the local community and help students achieve their career goals. The company has also partnered with Tallahassee Community College on workforce development programs, such as its CNC machinist apprenticeship.

Soon, the company will celebrate another milestone: its new 167,000ft² manufacturing facility in Tallahassee is scheduled for completion in early 2024. The new facility will increase current manufacturing capacity to meet fast-growing demand from American and international markets.