If you’re on our website, chances are you already know what industrial refrigeration is -or at least have some idea – however, if you aren’t too sure then here is a brief explanation:
You will typically find industrial refrigeration systems in places that require cold food storage, places that process dairy products, within drinks production and of course, ice rinks! You’ll also find them in some commercial buildings and supermarkets.
How Does it Work?
It’s a common belief that cooling systems create cold air, however, this isn’t exactly how it works. To create a cool/cold environment, you must first eradicate the heat from it – this is the basic logic and workings behind every refrigeration system. When liquid evaporates then heat is removed within the vapor, an easy way to understand this is to put water on your hands and then hold them in front of an electric fan, you will notice that the evaporating water is what removes any heat from your hands, leaving them feeling cool/cold.
Industrial refrigeration systems therefore use liquid (mostly ammonia) to transfer heat from within a space, to outside this space. A compressor is used to pump the refrigerant through both evaporation and condenser coils. The refrigerant then becomes a gas within the evaporation unit, therefore absorbing the heat, and transforms back into liquid in the condenser unit, where the heat is lost.
Why Ammonia?
Ammonia is an increasingly popular choice for industrial refrigeration; it’s zero rated for both Ozone Depletion Potential and Global Warming Potential – which we think itself is a good enough reason! However, this isn’t the only reason ammonia is such a popular choice. As a natural occurrent, it is readily available in copious amounts and it’s also extremely energy efficient to use, especially when compared to some other refrigerants.
Though it is toxic (and can also be quite flammable), this isn’t an overly large concern in the industry; ammonia gives off an extremely sour smell, so it is therefore easily noticed if it is leaking. However, its toxicity is the reason it is no longer used in modern-residential refrigeration, such as the fridges in our homes.
So, as you can see, ammonia is not only eco-friendly, but it is hugely beneficial to businesses as it is easily sourced and very energy efficient, meaning costs are kept low.
If you need assistance with your industrial refrigeration, then get in touch with us today! You can call us on 01429 836161.
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