The Natural Refrigeration

Author: Uriah Donaldson, Process Safety Consultant, Resource Compliance Introduction Recognized and generally accepted good engineering practices (RAGAGEP) are written documents intended for use in the design, installation, operation, and maintenance of process equipment. There has been a movement in the ammonia refrigeration industry towards standardization, yet there are historical variants that have led to confusion […]

Author: Marc Claas, Research Engineer; Douglas Reindl, PhD, PE, Director; Todd Jekel, PhD, PE, Assistant Director; John Davis, PE, Associate Researcher; Jacob Grayless, Research Intern; University of Wisconsin-Madison Industrial Refrigeration Consortium (IRC) Abstract Industrial ammonia refrigeration systems vary widely in their engineering design, size, scope, and technology features. However, they universally experience some level of […]

Author: Richard (Ric) Hartung Sr. Engineer/Consultant, Process & Safety Solutions LLC  Abstract The OSHA Process Safety Management (PSM) program and the EPA Risk Management Plan (RMP) rule rely on mechanical integrity to achieve the desired results. In the case of piping and equipment exposed to anhydrous ammonia, the predominate damage mechanism is external corrosion or […]

Author: Stephanie Smith, PE, Senior Engineer, Risk Management Professionals Abstract Should the hazard and operability (HAZOP) methodology be considered the industry standard for hazard reviews (HRs) and process hazard analyses (PHAs)? The topic is currently the focus of a vigorous debate in the industrial refrigeration industry. While there are advocates for and against employing HAZOP […]

Author: Martin L. Timm, P.E., CSP, Managing Member, Centigrade Services LLC Abstract Considerations around modes of test and operation that place ammonia refrigeration systems in a vacuum are discussed. A literature review of IIAR publications and general industry recommendations regarding design of pressure vessels and systems for evacuation and operation is presented. Results are presented […]

Author: Vikas Patnaik, PhD, MBA Vice President of Product Development, Modern Electron Michael Garrabrant, President, Stone Mountain Technologies, Inc. Abstract A significant amount of research and development has gone into the deployment of ammonia as a refrigerant in air conditioning and heat pump systems, going back to the first half of the twentieth century. This […]