At Chillventa 2026, GEA presented a new air spring concept for chillers and heat pumps equipped with reciprocating compressors.
The electronically controlled self-levelling air spring isolates the chiller or heat pump base frame from the building’s supporting structure, reducing the transmission of dynamic forces and vibrations.
In suitable projects, the solution can replace the separate, vibration-isolated concrete foundation block commonly used to date.
Due to their operating principle, reciprocating compressors generate dynamic forces that can be transmitted through the installation into the building structure.
Chillers and heat pumps of this type are therefore conventionally installed on a separate concrete foundation that is itself vibration-isolated.
Planning and constructing such a foundation requires additional construction work, close coordination among the trades involved, and extra time on site.
The new air springs isolate the chiller or heat pump base frame from the supporting surface. An electronic leveling system automatically maintains the required installation height and can compensate for unevenness of up to 25 millimeters.
This simplifies alignment and commissioning. At the same time, it creates additional options for existing buildings and installation locations where space is limited.
During normal operation, the system requires a continuous supply of compressed air from a compressor or gas cylinder.
The air springs are maintenance-free. Installation requires an on-site compressed air supply of up to 6 bar and 24 V DC at a maximum of 1.6 A. Alternatively, power can be supplied via a suitable power supply unit rated for 100 to 240 V AC.
Flexible pipe connections or suitable expansion joints prevent the small vertical movements from generating unwanted external forces. If a compressed air supply can be ensured, the air springs are an equivalent alternative to a foundation.
In the structural assessment, particular consideration should be given to the additional weight of a separate foundation.
The new mounting option is planned for GEA’s BluGenium, GEA RedGenium, and GEA Blu-Red Fusion product lines with reciprocating compressors.
GEA BluGenium is a compact chiller that uses ammonia, a natural refrigerant. GEA RedGenium covers industrial heat pump applications with supply temperatures of up to 95°C. GEA Blu-Red Fusion combines cooling and heating in one coordinated system.
Field tests of the air spring solution have been completed successfully. Its official launch as a selectable option in the RTSelect product selection and configuration tool is planned by GEA for early 2027.