Epic Group is operating heat pumps that use refrigerants to transfer heat, operating in a manner similar to air conditioners but in reverse.
These devices are said to be one of the most efficient methods of electric heating, often supplying two or more units of heat per unit of electricity consumed.
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Standard heat pumps typically generate hot water at temperatures near 90°C, which does not meet the requirements for industrial dryers that operate using pressurised steam above 150°C.
To address this gap, TRIGeN Decarbonisation, an Indian Deeptech startup, has developed specialised heat pumps capable of producing pressurised hot water at 135°C to support Epic Group’s laundry operations.
Italian equipment manufacturer Tonello has adjusted its industrial dryers to work with pressurised hot water at 130°C, allowing integration with the new heat pump technology.
An added feature of these heat pumps is their ability to provide cooling as a byproduct. Epic Group utilises this cooling within its laundry areas to maintain suitable working conditions for associates, including during periods of extreme external heat.
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By GlobalDataThe supply of cold air helps ensure comfortable conditions for workers in these environments.
Epic Group has financed a pilot project aimed at both clarifying the technical aspects of heat pump operation and assessing the related capital and operational expenses.
Transitioning manufacturing processes that require thermal energy to heat pumps incurs significant capital investment.
This process requires upgraded electrical infrastructure, such as larger transformers, switchgear, backup generators supported by renewable energy.
The company has stated that this pilot project will displace 12,500 metric tonnes (mt) of CO2 over its operational lifetime.
Epic Group executive vice chairman Dinesh Virwani said: “Epic Group is firmly committed to decarbonising our operations and contributing to industry-wide efforts. This pilot’s success will pave the way for broader adoption of heat pumps within the fashion industry. Early adopters will set a pathway for others, leading to lower costs at scale. This is one of our innovative contributions to industry sustainability.”
In June this year, Epic Group formed a joint venture with vertical apparel manufacturer Creative Group under the name Spectra.
The joint venture’s first project is a denim and bottoms manufacturing plant designed to produce up to 700,000 units per month.
