Refrigerated counters

	This frost-free refrigerator from Ningbo Aux features a multiple airflow system for enhanced cooling. It has a digital temperature display.

Integrated water purifiers and dispensers, ice makers and sensor-based cooling systems define the latest models.

Emphasizing expanded capability, suppliers of refrigerators in China are incorporating special features and new cooling technologies in their products.

Designs that can purify and store cold water are being manufactured in greater numbers. This comes as demand for versatile refrigerators intensifies, particularly in upscale markets such as the US and Europe.

In addition, where previous models had trays only for cube ice, companies are now offering refrigerators that can produce crushed and tube types as well. Moreover, the time to make the ice is shorter.

User-friendly and low-maintenance models are popular. These boast frost-free interiors, and touch-button operation via a color LCD screen interface that shows the temperature, time and date.

Further, suppliers are dedicating efforts to improving the cooling capability of their refrigerators. Many have developed sensor-based systems that provide special chilling for different types of food.

One supplier interviewed for this report introduced recently the IMCR technology, which enables storage under varying temperature levels. This process prolongs the food's shelf life while maintaining flavor.

Riding this trend, Hisense Kelon Electrical Holdings Co. Ltd is offering refrigerators with built-in water purifiers and dispensers. Releases can make crushed ice as well.

Models RC-74WS4HA and RC-92WS4HA have these features. Additionally, they boast vegetable and fruit crispers with automatic humidity adjustment to help preserve flavor. Touch-screens and interior LEDs are likewise incorporated.

Established in 1984, ISO 9001:2000-certified Hisense Kelon dedicates 30 percent of production to refrigerators. It also offers other home and kitchen appliances, including air conditioners, stand fans, gas stoves, electric cookers and heaters, deep fryers and water dispensers.

At Ningbo Aux Imp. & Exp. Co. Ltd, the latest releases are equipped with sensors for selecting a suitable temperature setting for specific food types.

The company's refrigerators employ a multiple airflow system for even cooling. These can be operated through an LCD with digital controls.

Emphasizing user convenience, ISO 9001:2000-certified Dongguan Ico Electrical Co. Ltd has launched products with an automatic defrost function. Models D0.6L2F and D1.31L4F are also fitted with maintenance-free and dust-resistant condensers.

Anhui Garments Imp. & Exp. Co. Ltd Electrical & Machinery Dept.incorporates interior LED and self-diagnosis systems in its refrigerators. These also boast touch-sensitive controls for greater convenience.

The company manufactures electric fans, kettles and irons, air conditioners, washing machines and CD players. It has received ISO 9001:2000 certification.

Model BCD-190 from the China Cairun Group features two-temperature direct cooling, which is said to be energy-efficient.

The 560x525x1,455mm, 50kg product comes in a two-door design. It is compliant with the RoHS, the EU's directive regulating harmful substances in electrical and electronic equipment.

ISO 9001:2000-certified China Cairun markets 40 percent of exports under the in-house Sinodia brand.

At Ningbo Huacai Electric Appliances Co. Ltd, the emphasis is on large refrigerators. This is in response to growing demand for products with greater capacity.

Model BCD186, for example, boasts refrigerator and freezercapacity of 120 and 66L, respectively.