Stirling Ultracold, a division of Global Cooling, Inc., is a pioneering manufacturer of ultra-low temperature (ULT) freezers designed for the life sciences, biopharmaceutical, clinical, academic, and healthcare industries.
Headquartered in Athens, Ohio, Stirling Ultracold is globally recognised for its groundbreaking Stirling engine cooling technology and unwavering commitment to advancing science, minimising environmental impact, and optimising operations.
With a product portfolio that spans from lightweight, portable storage to compact undercounter models and high-capacity upright freezers, Stirling Ultracold offers innovative, energy-efficient ULT storage solutions that meet the evolving needs of modern laboratories and healthcare facilities. The company plays a critical role in supporting the cold chain for temperature-sensitive materials, including vaccines, biologics, and scientific samples requiring storage from -20°C to -100°C.
Mission and values
Mission:
To provide the highest quality, environmentally sustainable, ultra-low temperature storage solutions to the global industry.
Values:
- Customers – We are fully committed to delivering the highest quality products and services on time, in a culture of continuous improvement.
- Honesty – Fostering transparency and integrity in our operations, building trust with employees, partners and customers.
- Innovation – We encourage a culture of forward-thinking and creativity that drives the development of groundbreaking solutions.
- Leadership – Encouraging proactive leadership and accountability at all levels to inspire teams and drive positive change within the organisation and community.
- Legacy – We are committed to sustainable practices that ensure a positive impact on future generations globally while creating meaningful jobs today in our local community.
History and innovation
Stirling Ultracold was founded with a bold idea: to reinvent the way ultra-low temperatures are achieved, using advanced, energy-efficient technology. Rather than relying on traditional cascade compressor systems that dominate the ULT freezer market, the company introduced an alternative: the free-piston Stirling engine.
This cutting-edge engine, originally developed for aerospace and advanced scientific applications, was adapted by Stirling Ultracold for commercial refrigeration. Its adoption marked a turning point in ULT freezer design, enabling dramatic reductions in energy use, heat output, noise, and environmental impact.
Sustainability leadership
Sustainability is not just a feature of Stirling Ultracold products – it is a fundamental pillar of the company’s philosophy. As climate change and energy conservation become central concerns for science-driven industries, Stirling Ultracold stands at the forefront of sustainable cold storage innovation.
Product portfolio
Stirling Ultracold offers a diverse range of ultra-low temperature freezers, each tailored for different space and storage needs, including:
- ULT25NEU:
The ULT25NEU is the only truly portable ultra-low temperature (ULT) freezer available today for bringing cold chain samples and biological products to patients at remote clinic sites. It provides safe and reliable ULT freezer storage in the field and on the go - SU105UE undercounter/stackable freezer:
This stackable model uses the revolutionary free-piston Stirling engine technology, offering a highly reliable and compact ULT storage solution with only a few moving parts, no oil and no compressors. The SU105UE’s front access design allows convenient, space-saving placement on the benchtop, undercounter or in a double-stacked arrangement, delivering surprising storage capacity in a small footprint. - VAULT100 upright model:
The first ULT freezer with a -100 to -20°C temperature range with the best temperature uniformity and adherence to setpoint in the market. The VAULT100 offers a large user interface display with onboard predictive analytics and freezer diagnostics, a more robust free-piston Stirling engine design, and a 360-degree approach to sustainability.
Stirling Ultracold also offers additional racking solutions, as well as the SenseAnywhere system, a cloud-based tool that allows users to monitor and audit the safe storage of valuable biological specimens remotely – from anywhere in the world – with just an internet connection.
Markets served
Stirling Ultracold supports a wide range of sectors, including:
- Biopharmaceuticals and biotech: For vaccine development, biologic therapies, and cell/gene therapy storage.
- Clinical and diagnostic labs: For sample preservation, test reagents, and pathology.
- Academic research: Used by universities and research institutes to preserve sensitive samples.
- Government and public health: Supporting immunisation programs, pandemic response, and public health research.
- Cold chain logistics: Integrated into mobile and distributed cold storage systems, especially for field research and remote installations.
During the COVID-19 pandemic, Stirling Ultracold was a critical player in vaccine storage and distribution, helping to establish decentralised cold chain networks across the globe.
Global reach
While headquartered in the US, Stirling Ultracold products are used on six continents and supported through a global network of distributors and service providers. The company partners with researchers, facility engineers, and laboratory planners to deliver tailored ULT storage solutions that meet regional regulatory requirements and operational standards.
Commitment to quality and compliance
Stirling Ultracold maintains the highest standards in product development, manufacturing, and service. The company’s products are designed to meet international safety and environmental certifications, including CE, UL, RoHS, and ENERGY STAR.
The company offers robust customer support, training, and warranty services – including a leading six-year parts and labour warranty on its flagship model, VAULT100. This model also offers Onboard Predictive Analytics and proactive preventative maintenance alerts and reminders to ensure long-term performance.
Looking ahead
As science accelerates, so do the demands for precise, dependable, and sustainable cold storage. Stirling Ultracold is investing in the next generation of cold chain innovation – expanding Internet of Things connectivity, cold storage solutions, and exploring new applications for Stirling-based refrigeration beyond the lab.
The company’s long-term strategy is guided by three principles: Advancing science, minimising environmental impact, and optimising operations. These pillars ensure Stirling Ultracold remains a trusted partner for organisations that rely on secure sample preservation and are committed to a greener future.
Please note, this article will also appear in our Animal Health Special Focus publication.
