Premiere at MCE 2026
At the Mostra Convegno Expocomfort (MCE) 2026 exhibition in Milan, Danfoss, a corporate member of the International Institute of Refrigeration (IIR), presented the new Turbocor TNS385 centrifugal compressor, developed specifically for the R600a (isobutane) refrigerant. The development is intended for large-scale cooling systems—air-cooled chillers for comfort air conditioning with a rated capacity of 385 kW. For data center applications, capacity can increase up to 500 kW by raising the chilled water temperature.
Oil-free design with magnetic bearings
The compressor is equipped with magnetic bearings, ensuring fully oil-free operation. This approach provides several key advantages:
- ✅ Minimizing friction
- ✅ Reduced maintenance costs
- ✅ Eliminating performance losses typical of traditional lubrication systems
Natural refrigerant and environmental focus
The design makes it possible to efficiently use a natural refrigerant with low environmental impact, underscoring the industry’s shift toward sustainable technologies. The development reflects growing regulatory pressure on synthetic refrigerants and interest in low-carbon alternatives, especially in sectors such as data centers.
Field trials and market launch
The compressor is currently undergoing field trials in a pilot project in Europe. The commercial launch of Turbocor TNS385 is expected in the fourth quarter of 2027.