Danfoss unveils oil-free R600a centrifugal compressor at MCE 2026

At Mostra Convegno Expocomfort (MCE) 2026 in Milan, the IIR corporate member Danfoss presented a new centrifugal compressor designed for R600a (isobutane). The Turbocor TNS385 targets large-scale cooling applications such as air-cooled chillers for comfort cooling, with a nominal capacity of 385 kW that can increase up to 500 kW for data centre applications, thanks to a higher chilled water temperature ^[1].

 

The compressor uses magnetic bearings to achieve oil-free operation, reducing friction, maintenance needs, and performance losses associated with lubrication systems. This design supports efficient operation while enabling the use of a natural refrigerant with low environmental impact.

 

The development of this technology reflects increasing regulatory pressure on synthetic refrigerants, including discussions around PFAS restrictions, as well as growing demand for efficient and low-GWP solutions in high-capacity cooling. Interest from sectors such as data centres, currently largely dominated by chillers employing synthetic refrigerants, is contributing to the exploration of alternatives based on natural refrigerants.

 

The compressor is currently undergoing real-world field testing in a pilot project in Europe, with commercial availability expected in the fourth quarter of 2027. The development of this technology and its deployment on the market will contribute to the ongoing transition of the HVAC&R sector toward more sustainable cooling technologies.

 

The Danfoss TNS Turbocor Compressor operating with R600a presented at MCE 2026 ^[1].

 

 

Sources:

[1] Natural Refrigerants. MCE 2026: Danfoss Debuts Isobutane Turbocor Compressor Designed for Comfort and Data Center Cooling. https://naturalrefrigerants.com/news/mce-2026-danfoss-debuts-isobutane-turbocor-compressor-designed-for-comfort-and-data-center-cooling/