The Dubai-based Evapcool, established in 1996 to manufacture ECI evaporative coolers, has achieved significant growth over the years.

ECI evaporative coolers are economical alternative to air-conditioners and are suitable for industrial establishments, factories, warehouses and big yards/outdoor area. The product has been tested and proven effective, even in humid conditions where conventional evaporative coolers fail, says Scot Danner, director of engineering.

"The benefits of environmental cooling are well-documented," says Danner. "Increased productivity, reduced heat related illness, reduced worker absenteeism, improved quality, extended shelf life and increased business," he says.

The operation cost of these coolers is also very low. At half the installation cost of an air-conditioner, one can save up to 90 per cent in operating costs.

The product is manufactured in the company's factory in Al Quoz. While the main mechanical equipment is US-made about 50 per cent of the products used are manufactured locally.

"While US-made means quality, local manufacture means parts availability," he says. "The cooling media is impregnated with plastic resins and anti-rot agents for long life - up to five years between changes. Fan blade and shroud are heavy-duty galvanised steel. Recirculation pump is oil-filled for cooling and submersibility. Fan and pump motors are thermally protected. All piping and hoses are non-corrosive plastic or brass. All components are easily accessible. Cooling media lifts out for cleaning. Housing is made with moulded plastic, is rust-proof, easy to clean and has a life span of 15 to 20 years.

The product, available in two ranges - ECI915 for general purpose and ECI 1220 for larger areas, is environment-friendly with no CFC or HCFC refrigerants to pollute the atmosphere. The cooler uses normal fresh water and a fraction of the electricity as refrigerated air.

The company has so far sold around 500 units in the UAE, Kuwait, Qatar, Oman, Saudi Arabia and other GCC countries. Some of its major customers include the Emirates airlines, Dubai Labour Supply Company (Dulsco), Dubai Petroleum Company, Dubai Creek Golf & Yacht Club, Chicago Bridge & Iron, McDermott, Amoco (Sharjah), Hyundai, Gearhouse, Trading Enterprises and customers in Hamriyah Free Zone.

Last year, the company witnessed 48 per cent growth, which prompted it to expand its manufacturing facility. It has doubled its factory area to 1,000 sq m and can manufacture 250 units per year.

With manufacturing and support facilities located in Dubai, Evapcool provides sales, service and technical support to its customers. Its fully trained and equipped technical staff can evaluate the facility and recommend a complete cooling package to suit customer's needs.