Since 2001, the best mechanical engineering students who focus on refrigeration, air-conditioning and environmental technology at the Karlsruhe University of Applied Sciences have received the Valerius Füner Prize. The ceremony to award this year’s prize was held at Bitzer Kühlmaschinenbau GmbH in Rottenburg, Germany, on May 31. The primary sponsor of the prize is the Schaufler Foundation, which was established in 2005 by Peter Schaufler, head of the Bitzer Group.

The award was presented to Stefan Eisenhauer and Benjamin Martin Eltges by Ingrid Bossert-Spiegelhalder, chairwoman of the Schaufler Foundation Management Board, and professor Michael Arnemann from Karlsruhe University. Eisenhauer received his diploma in December 2012 for his work in evaluating the energy efficiency of refrigeration systems. Eltges received a bachelor’s degree for his examination of a vapor generator concept.

The Schaufler Foundation has also set up an endowed chair at the Dresden University of Technology for refrigeration, cryogenic and compressor technology in order to promote the education of young people. Students can also learn about Bitzer’s activities at its national and international locations with internships, research projects and dissertations.