Sainsbury’s has put F1 aerofoils co-designed by Williams on its fridges and the retailer says the result is tuned-up energy efficiency.
Aerofoil Energy is the firm behind the technology, with Williams Advanced Engineering helping the firm to refine its design.
The aerofoils are designed to stop cold air escaping from the fridge cabinet. When air is blown out of the cabinet, the aerofoils direct it back in, saving wasted energy.
Sainsbury’s head of refrigeration John Skelton is impressed.
“We’re proud to be giving our fridges a turbo boost with this fantastic aerodynamic technology,” he said. “Aerofoils help the airflow around F1 cars and can improve their performance – and that’s exactly how they help the fridges in our stores, by keeping the cold air in. This F1-inspired innovation has already shown it can cut carbon produced by major refrigerators.”
Williams Advanced Engineering boss Craig Wilson said the applications of the technology were global.
“Williams Advanced Engineering’s mantra is to take the best of Formula One technology and knowhow and work with a range of industries to help improve their products and services,” he said. “Much of our work focuses on improving energy efficiency and the collaboration with Aerofoil Energy is a perfect example of how Formula One innovations can have a tangible benefit to ordinary people and the environment. This technology has global potential and the savings in operational costs and emissions are extremely promising.”
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