Grimsby and the Humber region is home to a number of large scale food processing and storage companies many of which supply the UK with produce. The need to research new and improved methods of storage and refrigeration is essential for the continued growth of the industry.

The Grimsby Institute has recently commissioned the first Cells Alive System (CAS) in Europe, developed by the Japanese company ABI Co Ltd. The Institute can now offer research and experimentation opportunities to the seafood/food industries.

Part-funded by the Ports & Logistics Centre of Vocational Excellence and European Development Agency, the CAS system is at the forefront of freezing technology. By rotating a magnetic field within the freezing environment, it is possible to preserve a wide range of products for extended storage periods at the highest quality levels – “as fresh”. CAS freezing works on the simple principle that water molecules cannot cluster and form cell-wall-damaging ice crystals if they are in motion during the freezing process.

The Institute has also commissioned an Ammonia Plant, which has been designed to provide training in the use and operation of industrial ammonia refrigeration systems for both the operators and service personnel. The equipment has been designed and constructed to the latest industrial standards and it incorporates all the necessary safety features.

The ammonia refrigeration is used to chill a secondary refrigerant, propylene glycol, that further enhances the training opportunities and provides valuable experience for those who have limited access to such systems.