IndelB Slim70 Fridge (BD Nano Compressor)

Case Story

This case story shows how the Secop BD Nano compressor addresses one of the key challenges for RV users during off-grid camping: high energy consumption from compressor fridges, which often forces travellers to seek external power sources or run the vehicle engine.

All tests were conducted by an independent third party: VanlifeMag.de.

Application Description

The tested refrigerator is the Slim70 from IndelB's new OFF line. It has a 70-litre capacity, an LED display with Power Saving and Silent Night modes, a reversible door with a customisable panel, and a locking handle for ventilation when off. Its easy-fix system allows faster and simpler installation than traditional methods.
One of the main challenges with RV compressors is minimising battery consumption. High-efficiency DC compressors can significantly reduce system power draw.

Advantages of Secop's BD Nano Series

Compact design: Maximises usable internal fridge capacity
High energy efficiency: Low power consumption across all operating conditions
Natural refrigerant: Uses isobutane (R600a), with low Global Warming Potential (GWP)
Variable-speed motor: Enables rapid pull-down and precise temperature control
Consistent performance: Operates reliably across a wide ambient temperature range, including tropical conditions

Benefits of the Implemented Solution

The BD Nano is the most compact DC hermetic compressor in the Secop range, at 93 mm high and 1.5 kg. Despite its small footprint, it supports refrigeration units up to 150 litres. Key design features include optimised-geometry mufflers that reduce size, weight, and noise, a "Mobile Stability" concept for durability in mobile applications, and a miniaturised motor with an extended speed range. Its electronic controller complies with strict automotive electromagnetic compatibility (EMC) standards. Cooling capacity reaches 68 W, with a coefficient of performance (COP) of 1.54 W/W (ASHRAE LBP).

Voice of Customer

The IndelB Group is a worldwide leader in mobile refrigeration for the automotive, leisure, and hospitality sectors. Fabrizio Ruscelli, Head of Test Department at IndelB:

With the BD Nano compressor, our Slim series refrigerators achieve levels of energy efficiency and cooling performance that were not previously attainable, with a significantly reduced noise level. For our technical team, this represents a real step forward, raising the benchmark in mobile refrigeration.

Test Results

Low Energy Consumption Outcomes

Peak current: 2.56 A, not exceeded at startup
Average draw over 24 h: 0.29 kWh
Pull-down time to target temperature (6 °C): < 2 hours
24 h draw with door closed (Level 3 setting): 38.4 Ah
(fridge compartment: 6/8 °C; freezer compartment: -18/20 °C)

Test Conditions

Ambient temperature: 31–32 °C
Thermostat setting: Level 3
Instrumentation: Bluetooth sensors inside the fridge compartment
Test duration: 2 weeks
Opening cycles: 7 per day (breakfast, lunch, dinner, and 4 additional openings)
Load: cheese, cold cuts, yogurt, bread, beer, and water (1.5 L bottles), to simulate real-use conditions

BD Nano Evolution

The charts compare the performance of the BD Nano Series against the Secop BD-P and BD Micro compressors, which were the range references in the automotive and leisure markets prior to the introduction of the BD Nano.

Small Footprint Chart

Dimensions and weight comparison between BD-P (4.5 kg, 144.6 mm height), BD Micro (2.3 kg, 102.9 mm), and BD Nano (1.5 kg, 93.3 mm).

R600a — Performance and Noise Level Charts

Performance: Coefficient of Performance (COP, W/W) as a function of cooling capacity (W) for BDN50K, BD35K, and BD50K.
Noise level: Sound Power Level (dB(A)) as a function of cooling capacity (W) for BDN50K, BD35K, and BD50K.