MHI ATES system for automotive parts maker
25th November 2024
JAPAN: Mitsubishi Heavy Industries Thermal Systems has received an order for a large-scale Aquifer Thermal Energy Storage (ATES) system for an automotive parts manufacturer.
The project for Aisan Industry will be the first practical application of an ATES system in Japan’s Chubu region.
The ATES system uses gravel and groundwater stored in aquifers deep underground as a heat storage tank. MHI Thermal Systems’ ATES system, includes an ETI-Z25.HP centrifugal chiller with a cooling capacity of 234RT (823kW) per unit, using HFO1233zd(E) refrigerant.
The system is for Aisan Industry’s new Anjo Plant. The order was placed through construction company Obayashi Corporation. This project will be MHI Thermal Systems’ first practical application of an ATES system outside of the Kansai region, and the fifth implementation site in Japan, including demonstration testing and social implementation.
The ATES system will be used for air conditioning at the plant, and is scheduled to start operations in the winter of 2025. Compared to conventional air conditioning systems, the adoption of high-efficiency centrifugal chillers, along with the utilisation of control technologies such as automatic switching of optimal operating modes, can be expected to reduce annual CO2 emissions by approximately 50%.
