At Chillventa 2026, GEA will unveil a new air spring concept for chillers and heat pumps equipped with reciprocating compressors. The electronically controlled self-leveling 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.
GEA RedGenium covers industrial heat pump applications with supply temperatures of up to 95°C. The photo shows the GEA RedGenium heat pump with the air springs. (Photo: AI modified)
Less construction work, greater flexibility
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 electronically controlled self-leveling air springs isolates the chiller or heat pump base frame from the building’s supporting structure, reducing the transmission of dynamic forces and vibrations. (Photo: GEA)
Planned for GEA BluGenium, GEA RedGenium, and GEA Blu-Red® Fusion
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 by GEA is planned for early 2027.
GEA at Chillventa 2026: October 13–15, 2026, NürnbergMesse, Hall 4, Booth 345. Under the motto “Innovation in every degree,” GEA will showcase solutions for energy-efficient refrigeration and heat pump technology, compressors, controls, and digital applications.
Dr. Michael Golek
About GEA
GEA is one of the world’s largest suppliers of systems and components to the food, beverage and pharmaceutical industries.
The international technology group, founded in 1881, focuses on machinery and plants, as well as advanced process technology, components and comprehensive services. For instance, every second pharma separator for essential healthcare products such as vaccines or novel biopharmaceuticals is produced by GEA. In food, every fourth package of pasta or every third chicken nugget are processed with GEA technology.
With more than 18,000 employees, the group generated sales of about EUR 5.5 billion in more than 150 countries in the 2025 fiscal year. GEA plants, processes, components and services enhance the efficiency and sustainability of customers’ production. They contribute significantly to the reduction of CO2 emissions, plastic usage and food waste. In doing so, GEA makes a key contribution toward a sustainable future, in line with the company’s purpose: ”Engineering for a better world.”
GEA is listed on the German DAX, the European STOXX® Europe 600 Index and is also a constituent of the leading sustainability indices DAX 50 ESG, MSCI Global Sustainability and Dow Jones Best-in-Class World.
