Design criteria for cooling systems

It is very important that a cold room is designed properly.
 Many problems that occur after construction appear to be avoidable.
 This is not restricted to the insulated structure only, but also to the choice of the refrigeration system. 

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The design of a facility is a step by step procedure
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Try to reduce the load first.

The first step when designing cold rooms and its cooling facility is to reduce the cooling capacity needed. This can be done by using sufficient insulation, prevent losses by open doors, prevent  heat leakages, automatic lights,  airtight structure and such.
At this stage client and contractor can do a lot to reduce the cooling load, reduce energy costs and reduce investment.


Note that this is the most important phase when starting to build a cold store. Results achieved here stay for life

If all is done to reduce the cooling load then its time for the second step

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Select a system using several criteria

In the second step choices have to be made between so many possibilities. One can choose direct expamsion, secondary systems, CO2. Each contractor will have his own view and for a client it will be very difficult to make the right choice.
Verhoef uses the Good Practice Guidance (GPG) method. This method helps both client and contractor to make the right choices out of several possible cooling systems. The GPG enables decision makers to select a cooling system that specifically has the desired options, such as Energy use, Costs, Refrigerant and external safety.

More information about the GPG can be fond  in the menu.

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 In the third step choices have to be made between several options, such as a evaporating condenser and an air cooled condenser. Evaporating condensers have an advantage, energy consumption and cost of ownership, when the cooling capacity is more then approx. 100 kW and where there is a qualified technical staff. In all other cases air cooled condensers tend to have more advantages; such as maintenance and noise. 

It is up to the contractor or consultant to make a honest comparison and let the client decide.

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Still Ammonia is the best possible solution. Measures should be taken to avoid large quantities. This by using secondary systems. Air curtains can do a lot to prevent snow and heat losses. Note the combination of air- and physical curtains. 

Be careful when choosing a secondary refrigerant. Some are very aggressive and cause a lot of damage.

Wet Air Cooling for fruits and vegetables sometimes is the best option to preserve quality and to save energy.

More about Wet Air Cooling can be found in the menu.