Cold storage construction firms warming to low-charge ammonia

Stellar develops its own low-charge system while construction firm Ryan expects to deploy an OEM model this year as industry figures in the U.S. continue to look favourably on reduced charge and packaged systems.

Stellar, a designer and builder of refrigerated warehouses, has built its own low-charge ammonia system that includes a condenser, compressor and vessels in one package.

Michael Smith, vice president of operations at Stellar, confirmed from IARW-WFLO Convention and Expo in Orlando, Florida last week that the rooftop system, which provides a maximum of 150 ton of refrigerant (TR), has not been installed yet.

Ryan A & E hasn’t incorporated low-charge ammonia systems in any refrigerated warehouses yet, but Tim Bauer, director of architecture – industrial, expects that to change this year.

“We’re interested in the technology,” Bauer said. “It’s definitely seen very favorably by our customers. It’s just a matter of time.”

Ryan has been in discussions with the major providers of low-charge systems, but wants to be reassured that they can deliver a large number of units on time. “That should take care of itself in short order,” he said.

He also sees a low-charge ammonia system as a potentially good fit in facilities that Ryan builds and leases to third parties. “It’s more manageable than a central engine room,” he added.

Expo to change stripes in 2016

From next year the Global Cold Chain Alliance will host a new exhibition in Chicago (June 2016). In partnership with United Fresh Produce Association and co-located with the FMI Connect, the International Floriculture Expo and United Fresh, the ‘Global Cold Chain Expo’ promises to be a one-stop-shop for all cold chain needs and is expected to attract over 15,000 key decision makers from retail, foodservice, processing, production, distribution, logistics, and transportation.

The inaugural Expo will feature 25,000 square feet of trade show space and hundreds of exhibitors from every sector of the cold chain from material handling, warehousing, construction, and supply chain/logistics solutions to transportation providers.