When installing an industrial chiller in a food, beverage, or dairy setting, it is important to consider whether the traditionally used NH3 (ammonia) is the most appropriate refrigerant solution. Companies that need a mild freezing cooling system are increasingly turning to HFO (Hydrofluoro-olefin) refrigerants to improve sustainability, boost performance, and significantly reduce costs.

The ideal refrigerant is non-toxic, non-flammable, non-explosive, non-corrosive, environment-friendly, inexpensive, easy to produce and handle and with good thermodynamic properties at low pressure.

HFO refrigerants meet these criteria. Toxicity, the safety of people and our environment should be taken seriously. Unlike Ammonia, HFO refrigerants, such as R1234ze, is a very low toxicity substance.

RISK TO HUMAN HEALTH

Ammonia (NH3) is extremely toxic, explosive, flammable, and corrosive. Ammonia leaks are a serious hazard on worn or damaged equipment. Immediate possible effects on health following exposure to ammonia:
• Can rapidly penetrate the eye and cause permanent injury
• Can cause irritation and burns on contact with skin
• Its ingestion causes rapid onset of both serious and life-threatening symptoms
• Its inhalation can be fatal at high concentrations

SPECIAL CARE

To reduce risks, ammonia cooling systems are built to rigorous specifications governed by stringent safety standards. High hazard levels demand elaborate contingency plans and strict maintenance schedules with specially trained staff ― all creating higher costs for plant operators. Even with the best precautions, potential accidents have severe impact risks to the surroundings.

As a result of their highly toxic nature, ammonia cooling systems are designed to be installed, monitored, and carefully maintained to avoid leaks. Members of staff must be adequately trained to prevent leaks and respond in the safest and most appropriate way should a problem occur. Because of its prominent smell, ammonia leaks can be detected at just 5 parts per million, meaning emergency response can be deployed rapidly. The immediate evacuation of the site will be enforced.

CONCLUSION

Manufacturing companies need high performing, energy-efficient and sustainable process cooling solutions. The right chiller plant selection is especially critical in food and dairy factories, breweries, and other beverage industries, where manufacturers must meet many quality and safety standards.
To ensure the safety, efficiency and reliability of chiller plants, service and maintenance should be carried out on all chiller types following the manufacturer’s recommendations.

See Sustainable low temperature HVAC systems

Learn about R1234ze Refrigerant