Refrigeration system malfunctions

Points out that commercial and industrial refrigeration systems usually consist of separate components from different manufacturers. States that although guidelines for component selection and integration are provided by ASHRAE, a number of details can lead to non-optimal system configurations and operation. Describes a case study of a refrigeration system serving an indoor skating area in Madison, Wis. Where the system components were instrumented to measure refrigerant pressures and temperatures. The lack of agreement between the model and actual system data revealed unexpected operational problems. Describes the methods implemented to detect and solve these problems. Concludes that the operating cost of large direct-expansion refrigeration systems can be significantly reduced by a simple change in the condenser control strategy and that it is almost always cost effective to install proper monitoring equipment in large refrigeration systems to detect and correct problems early to avoid significant operating costs penalties or damage to equipment. Lists recommended monitoring equipment.

Citation: ASHRAE Journal, vol.41, no.2, February 1999



Product Code(s): D-9241