Freeze-Dryer with sustainable refrigeration technology - CryoBlizzard by HOF

CSL Behring is the world's leading manufacturer of biotechnological medicines, aiming to save lives and improve patients' quality of life. CSL Behring also leads in sustainability within the technical field, having installed an efficient central cooling system in its Marburg facility in 2023. This system, using only air (R729), was retrofitted in collaboration with our partner HOF, and features cold air refrigeration machines from Mirai Intex. It is future-proof, offering high flexibility, reliability, and efficiency, with a significantly lower carbon footprint compared to conventional systems. This technology is a true game-changer, fully complying with environmental regulations such as the F-Gas Regulation and REACH. Additionally, the process heat can be used for other processes as a heat pump. HOF Sonderanlagen is a leading manufacturer of pharmaceutical freeze-drying, freezing, thawing, and loading/unloading systems.


The photo shows the freeze dryers with sustainable refrigeration technology that are used in manufacturing in Marburg
The photo shows the freeze dryers with sustainable refrigeration technology that are used in manufacturing in Marburg

In pharmaceutical production, freeze-drying preserves medicines for years without refrigeration. The refrigeration technology is demanding, as there are specific requirements depending on the manufacturer and medication. After sterile filling, the medicines are placed in vials that are fed into the freeze-drying system. The medication freezes at between -40 °C and -55 °C on adjustable plates through which a cryogenic special oil flows. A vacuum sublimates the frozen water, which is bound at -80 °C in the ice condenser. The vials are then sealed and the granules can be stored without refrigeration. In Marburg, freeze dryers are used that operate without direct emissions and with air as a refrigerant. Optimised operational control, central cooling supply and improved waste heat utilisation ensure low energy requirements and greater efficiency, which supports the company's sustainability goals.

Technical details of the CryoBlizzard by HOF:
Technical details of the CryoBlizzard by HOF:
  • Low-temperature central cooling systems from -40 °C to -110 °C
  • Cold air technology from Mirai Intex
  • Freely selectable temperatures with high power density
  • Free from regulations & restrictions due to the refrigerant air

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