Mayekawa, a leading Japanese manufacturer, has launched its air-cooled ammonia (R717) chiller, the mCHILLER TAKA, to the U.S. market. The company unveiled the model at the International Institute of All-Natural Refrigeration (IIAR) Conference and Expo 2025, marking a significant step in expanding its presence in North America.
The mCHILLER TAKA is positioned as an efficient alternative to systems that rely on synthetic refrigerants, offering a low-charge ammonia solution suitable for a variety of industrial, semi-industrial, and commercial applications. These include sports complexes, data centers, process cooling, and cold storage. The chiller boasts cooling capacities ranging from 52 kW to 1,758 kW (15 to 500 tons of refrigeration, or TR) and provides supply temperatures from −12°C to 23.8°C (10°F to 75°F).
Available in the U.S. since mid-2024, the mCHILLER TAKA has already been successfully adopted in several installations, with multiple units sold over the past six months, according to Mayekawa representatives at IIAR 2025.
Originally developed in Denmark, the chiller was first launched in Europe in 2022. Allison Huck, Applications Engineer for Mayekawa USA, explained that the product has been adapted to meet U.S. market needs, including adjustments to the system’s design, compliance with local codes, and integration of locally sourced components to reduce maintenance costs and minimize downtime. These updates also include modifications to the PLC program language, a switch from metric to imperial units, and the achievement of UL certification.
Streamlined and Customizable Design
Mayekawa USA has been producing custom-built chillers in the U.S. for decades, and the mCHILLER TAKA represents the company’s shift towards offering more standardized, streamlined solutions. Huck highlighted that the goal was to provide contractors with a more straightforward option that would reduce lead times and lower initial costs, thanks to pre-engineered and proven technology.
The mCHILLER TAKA is available in nine models, offering flexibility to accommodate a range of end-user needs. Customers can choose from three compressor options: the K-series reciprocating compressor for smaller capacities, the M-series reciprocating compressor for larger capacities, and the V-series screw compressor. In addition, the chiller offers three heat exchanger options: a direct expansion (DX) plate and frame, a flooded plate and frame, or a flooded plate and shell unit. The unit can also be equipped with an air-cooled or adiabatic condenser from Mayekawa’s B series.
With a low operating charge of 116–310g/kW, the mCHILLER TAKA prioritizes safety. Features such as integrated ventilation, leak-detection alarms, and remote monitoring ensure optimal operation. The unit’s design facilitates easy maintenance, with accessible electrical panels and components, as well as straightforward connections for power and glycol/water loops. Its modular structure also simplifies shipping and reduces costs for larger systems.
Expanding Ammonia-Based Solutions in the U.S.
The mCHILLER TAKA is part of Mayekawa’s broader mCHILLER series, which also includes the FUGU water-cooled chiller. Launched in the U.S. in 2023, the FUGU covers capacities of 299–1,582 kW (85–450 TR), serving industrial and semi-industrial applications. At IIAR 2025, Mayekawa also presented its R717-based Plus+HEAT heat pump, a selection of compressors, and the ammonia-CO2 (R744) NewTon cooling system.
This expansion aligns with the growing demand for ammonia-based refrigeration technologies in the U.S. According to the Natural Refrigerants: State of the Industry 2024 report by ATMOsphere, the number of industrial sites in the U.S. using low-charge ammonia systems increased by approximately 40% between 2021 and 2024, reaching an estimated 842 installations nationwide.
Mayekawa is committed to developing sustainable, natural refrigerant technologies, including ammonia, CO2, hydrocarbons, air (R729), and water (R718). Alexander Lape, Regional Sales Manager for Mayekawa USA, emphasized that these refrigerants are “sustainable and future-proof,” supporting a wide range of applications from refrigeration to hot water supply.
Conclusion
Mayekawa’s mCHILLER TAKA marks a significant advancement in ammonia-based refrigeration, offering an environmentally-friendly alternative to synthetic refrigerants. With its low-charge ammonia technology, the chiller serves a wide range of industries, from sports complexes to cold storage, ensuring reliable performance and safety. The successful adaptation of the product for the U.S. market, along with its ease of use and cost-effectiveness, positions the mCHILLER TAKA as a key player in the growing demand for sustainable refrigeration solutions. As the market for ammonia-based technologies continues to expand, Mayekawa is poised to contribute to a more sustainable and efficient future in industrial and commercial cooling.
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