IIAR
The Official Magazine of the All-Natural Refrigeration Industry
Decarbonizing With District Energy Systems: When an R744 (CO2) Heat Pump Is the Obvious Choice Author: Parham Eslami-Nejad, R744 Program Manager Vitalis Abstract R744 (CO2) industrial air-source heat pumps (ASHPs) can serve as cost-effective and scalable alternatives to conventional heating and cooling systems. Leveraging the unique thermodynamic properties of CO2, a natural refrigerant, these systems […]
Measurement Device Platform Designed for the Performance Assessment of Low-Temperature Blast Freezing Systems Author: Eric Alar, PhD Candidate at the University of Wisconsin-Madison Abstract Air blast freezing systems are among the most widely used technologies for rapidly freezing both packaged and unpackaged foodstuffs. In many food processing facilities, freezing is a bottleneck in the continuous […]
Sustainable Solutions for Agricultural Cold Storage: A Case Study Author: Tania Herrera, Key Account and Product Engineer, Güntner U.S., LLC and Dan O’Brien, President, Zero Zone, Inc. Abstract This paper explores the potential of integrating CO2 refrigeration systems with energy savings alternatives to maximize sustainability and energy efficiency in agricultural cold storage facilities. With growing […]
Using Scorecards to Manage and Improve your RMP/PSM Program Author: Nikolaus Despain CRL, APSM Abstract As resources get harder and harder to find, we need to explore other ways to help us be effective and make good decisions. For a single plant or a corporation with multiple plants, having good information available helps us leverage […]
Interior Ammonia Release: Dispersion, Ventilation, and Hazardous Zone of the Negligible Extent Volume Author: William J. Greulich, Principal, Kensington Consulting Abstract Currently, ANSI/IIAR 2 Standard for Design of Safe Closed-Circuit Ammonia Refrigeration Systems (IIAR 2021) requires machinery room emergency mechanical ventilation systems to provide no less than 30 air changes per hour based on the […]
CO2 systems: Lubricants and Oil Management Strategies Author: Giacomo Pisano, M.Sc. Engineering, DORIN USA Abstract The use of carbon dioxide (CO2), especially in industrial refrigeration systems, has received a lot of attention in the last decades. As for any equipment, a correct lubricant choice and a proper oil management strategy are key for the safe, […]
Understanding Water Treatment Performance Author: James Booth, Technical Sales Director, Sustainachem Abstract This presentation will focus on the basic understanding of water treatment and the involvement of industry that is required to extend the life of the equipment. In order to properly protect the asset from a water treatment perspective, industry needs to be more […]
Lessons Learned from a Collection of Ammonia Incident Investigations Author: C’Anna Wiens P.E., Process Safety Engineer, Resource Compliance Abstract You may be familiar with the quote, “Those who do not learn from history are doomed to repeat it.” Learning from others’ mistakes can be a game-changer in the world of ammonia refrigeration. This paper contains […]
Applications of Ammonia and Carbon Dioxide for Decarbonization and Markets Other Than the Food and Beverage Refrigeration Industry Author: Paul Danilewicz, P.E., Santosh Yarlagadda Enerflex Energy Systems, Inc. Houston, Texas Introduction Ammonia (NH3) and carbon dioxide (CO2) refrigerants are commonly used in food and beverage markets and other industrial refrigeration systems. They have also been […]
Refrigeration System Design Using Float Expansion Valves Author: Todd B. Jekel, PhD, PE, Assistant Director, Industrial Refrigeration Consortium, University of Wisconsin-Madison Abstract Large industrial refrigeration systems often suffer from operating instabilities caused by refrigerantliquid feed controls that are poorly engineered or improperly tuned. A strategy that requires more sophisticated controls potentially addresses operating instabilities but […]
CO2 Heat Pumps: System Solutions and Applications Mapping Author: Ivan Rangelov, Industrial Heat Pumps Business Development Manager, Danfoss (6000 Kolding, Denmark), Mazyar Karampour, Sustainable Applications Expert, Danfoss (111 64 Stockholm, Sweden) , Thomas Lund, Industrial Refrigeration and Heat Pumps Expert, Danfoss (6000 Kolding, Denmark) Abstract CO2 is an emerging refrigerant in North America, but identifying […]
Livin’ la Vida LOPA: A Case Study in the Application of HAZOP and LOPA for Ammonia Refrigeration Systems Author: Michael Lacher, Process Safety Lead, Food Solutions North America, Cargill , James Topp, PHA Manager, Provenance Consulting, A Trinity Consultants Company Abstract Since the advent of process safety, the process hazard analysis (PHA) method of choice […]
Getting Knocked Out by the Pendulum: The 2024 EPA RMP Rule Changes and Strategies for Compliance Author: William Lape, Project Director SCS Engineers Abstract Over the last several years, facilities covered by the Environmental Protection Agency’s Chemical Accident Prevention Provisions, otherwise known as the Risk Management Program, have beenforced to navigate unpredictable and frequent shifts […]
Connecting Cooling and Process Heating in Industrial Applications with Natural Refrigerants Author: Felix St-Germain, Refrigeration Engineer, Laporte Engineering, Ivan Rangelov, Business Development Manager, Industrial Heat Pumps, Danfoss Abstract The need to decarbonize industrial facilities is greater than ever. One technology that will play a large role in reducing carbon emissions is industrial heat pumps. With […]
Application of a Rotary Pressure Exchanger in CO2 Refrigeration Systems Author: Neelesh Sarawate, PhD; Azam Thatte, PhD; and Arnav Deshmukh Energy Recovery Inc., Steven Goh Vallarta Supermarkets Abstract Herein, the application of a rotary gas pressure exchanger (PX) for increasing the efficiency of transcritical CO2 refrigeration systems is examined. The PX uses high-pressure discharge from a […]
CO2 Systems Add-Ons: Calculations and Field Measurements Author: Giacomo Pisano, CO2 Business Development Manager, and Nabih Hussein, Refrigeration Sales Engineer DORIN USA Abstract This paper describes enhanced and integrated carbon dioxide refrigeration systems that can improve yearly energy figures when compared to traditional flash-gas bypass (FGB) solutions, making CO2 an attractive option for industrial refrigeration in […]
Energy Savings in Ammonia Systems Using Low-Stage De-superheating Author : Hannes Steyn (Pr.Eng.), Director of Heating and Refrigeration GEA Africa (Pty) Ltd Abstract This paper demonstrates how evaporative condensers can be used as low-stage de-superheaters to improve the efficiency of two-stage ammonia refrigeration systems. The high discharge temperatures generated by ammonia compressors can help reject […]
Energy Baselining Essentials Author: Charles Tuck, Co-Founder and VP of Energy & IoT Solutions Ndustrial.io Abstract Before companies can report on progress toward sustainability goals, they need to establish a baseline. This paper outlines fundamental best practices for creating a useful energy baseline: defining the metrics upfront, normalizing the data, setting up real-time monitoring, and […]
Cues and Confirmation Your Piping is in Jeopardy: A Comparison of 20+ Years of NDT Dat with Field Observations Author: Suzy Vohsen, Director, Marketing and Client Services LIXI, Inc., and Gamma Graphics Services (GGS) Abstract Ammonia refrigeration system managers are looking for more useful information regarding risk mitigation and compliance because they need to determine […]
Implications of HAZWOPER Regulations on Ammonia Refrigeration Contractors Author: Jeff Pace CSP, Director Safety & Health Industrial Refrigeration Pros Abstract This technical paper addresses potential business risks associated with the Hazardous Waste Operations and Emergency Response (HAZWOPER) standard for ammonia refrigeration contractors when used for repairing leaks in ammonia refrigeration systems. The definitions of an […]
Application and Considerations for Internal Relief in Industrial Refrigeration Systems Author: Todd B. Jekel, PhD, PE, and Douglas T. Reindl, PhD, PE Industrial Refrigeration Consortium Abstract The requirements for determining the capacity of vapor service pressure-relief devices applied to partially liquid-filled ammonia vessels/equipment and discharging to the atmosphere, as well as liquid service relief devices […]
Controlling the Circulation Rate in Ammonia Refrigeration Systems Author: Morten Juel Skovrup, Global Applications Manager; Niels P. Vestergaard, Global Applications Expert; and Roozbeh Izadi-Zamanabadi, Lead Expert, Control Engineering, Danfoss A/S Abstract Reducing the charge in ammonia refrigeration systems is becoming increasingly important. However, reduction must be achieved without compromising the efficiency of the ammonia refrigeration […]
Intelligent CO2 Compressors and Ejectors for Enhanced System Efficiency and Reliability in Industrial Applications Author: Alessandro Silva, Senior Application Engineer BITZER US Abstract Intelligent CO2 compressors and ejectors are emerging as highly promising solutions for industrial refrigeration systems. This publication highlights their expanding capacity and scale, demonstrating their suitability for various applications, including cold storage […]
Falling Film Chiller and Heat Pump Integration: An Energy-efficient Method for Producing Cold and Hot Water in a Dairy Plant Author: José Augusto Castro Chagas, Castro Chagas Consulting Daniel Camps, Refrigeration AG German Robledo, GEA Abstract Decarbonization is a crucial process in the effort to mitigate the effects of climate change. Considering this aim, efficient energy […]
Carrots to Sticks – Carbon Tracking for Cold Storage Abstract This paper provides an overview on the basics of carbon counting and how they may apply to carbon counting within the cold storage industry. It will also cover opportunities to take advantage of newer technologies available to improve the accuracy of carbon reporting data, and […]
Correlation Between Evaporator Suction Pipe Size and Hot Gas Flow Rate for the Prevention of Hydraulic Shock in Ammonia Refrigeration Systems Chidambaram Narayanan, External Consultant Joel-Steven Singh, Senior Engineer AFRY Switzerland AG Executive Summary Incidents of ammonia releases due to hydraulic shock in the refrigeration pipework have been reported in the past and, unless […]
Ammonia Central-stage DX System: Firsthand Experience Author: Dipl.-Ing. oec. Finn Dresen, General Manager Kältetechnik Dresen+Bremen GmbH Abstract The dominant topics for industrial refrigeration facilities have been climate change and rising energy costs in recent years. A new generation of environmental activists worldwide has pushed this agenda forward to the point where politicians have started to […]
Carbon-Dioxide System Relief Sizing Author: William Greulich Kensington Consulting, Cillers Kruger Korf Technology, Ltd. Abstract Generally, safety standards for refrigeration systems require the placement of at least one overpressureprotection device on all carbon-dioxide (R-744) systems as well as on vessels manufactured in accordance with the American Society of Mechanical Engineers Boiler and Pressure Vessel Code, […]
The Cost of Non-Compliance: An Objective Analysis of Federal EPA’s Enforcement at Ammonia Refrigeration Facilities Author: Uriah Donaldson, Process Safety Consultant Resource Compliance Introduction This paper presents an objective analysis of the Federal Environmental Protection Agency’s (EPA’s) enforcement of ammonia refrigeration facilities across America conducted using hundreds of publicly available independent inspection reports dating from […]
Performance Analysis of CO2 Heat Pump Modes for Refrigeration Systems: A Case Study Author: William Slope, Refrigeration Sales Engineer Air Treatment Corporation, Frédérick Lavallée-Trubiano, Director of Engineering M&M Carnot Abstract Transcritical CO2 heat pumps are emerging as a viable alternative to synthetic air- or water-source heat pumps, and they present an opportunity for electrification while […]
Cybersecurity in Automated Industrial Systems Author: Josh Symonds, Lead DevOps Engineer CrossnoKaye Abstract The rise of automation brings new cybersecurity threats to heavy industries. Cybersecurity attacks like ransomware, malware, and phishing are becoming commonplace and more sophisticated as they continuously evolve and change. This paper reviews the risks and tactics of the most common classes […]
More than 1,850 attendees participated in the International Institute of All-Natural Refrigeration’s Natural Refrigeration Conference & Heavy Equipment Expo in Phoenix, Arizona. The event showcased the latest information on industry issues, technical knowledge and networking and as well as an opportunity to see new equipment for those involved in the natural refrigeration industry. Sharing Knowledge […]
Each year, IIAR recognizes the best technical paper presentations offered at the annual Natural Refrigeration Conference. This year’s event took place March 2-5 in Phoenix, AZ. The IIAR Award for Presentation Excellence, offered to the top English and non-English language technical papers and previously named the “Andy Ammonia Award,” was created to acknowledge the crucial […]
Portions of the American Innovation and Manufacturing (AIM) Act are under scrutiny as part of a broader deregulatory agenda, casting uncertainty over the future of U.S. climate policy for refrigerants. The Environmental Protection Agency (EPA) has announced it will reconsider the Technology Transitions Rule, while Congress is reviewing the Refrigerant Management Rule—two key components of […]
The Natural Refrigeration Foundation’s Fun Day during the annual conference featured golf and Bingo, raising around $40,000 to support the foundation’s scholarships and research. “The golf event was a success with 100 golfers—68 individual golfers and eight President’s Brackets teams of four people—at the Arizona Grand Resort. This was one of the most beautiful golf courses […]
The Critical Task Guidance for Ammonia Refrigeration System Emergency Planning is a key resource designed to support employers, government regulators, and public safety responders in preparing for and mitigating ammonia-related incidents. The guidance, which was released in 2021, promotes a proactive approach to safety in facilities where ammonia refrigeration systems are in use and is […]
The Trump administration is renewing its focus on deregulation, with potential rollbacks that could significantly affect the natural refrigerant and broader chemical safety industries. “The Trump administration is making deregulation a priority, and the goals are to reduce the number of regulations and reduce the cost of regulations. It’s part of a broader effort across […]
By Kem Russell Are you prepared? I think most of us think we are prepared, at least to deal with whatever we expect to happen. The trouble is that often what we come up against is not something we expected, therefore we are not prepared for that. For ammonia refrigeration whether a system has 400 […]
Emergency preparedness is often taught as a concept supported by three critical legs of a stool: government, public safety responders, and industry. Each leg plays a vital role, and the stability of the whole structure depends on the coordination of all three, making it important for those in the industry to foster strong relationships. “To […]
Welcome to Phoenix and the 2025 IIAR Industrial Refrigeration Conference & Heavy Equipment Expo! I’m excited to welcome you to Phoenix as part of the 47th IIAR conference. It’s hard to believe that our organization recently blew past five decades of work on behalf of this industry! Much of that work happens at our annual […]
s awareness of health-related concerns surrounding per- and polyfluoroalkyl substances (PFAS) increases, more and more states are taking action to limit the use of the substances, which are often referred to as forever chemicals. “PFAS generally, as a classification of substances, continues to draw a lot of attention and concern. How it will be addressed […]
he International Institute of All-Natural Refrigeration has released a “Refrigerant Evaluator Tool” to help IIAR members and others assess their refrigerant choices and evaluate their options as the Environmental Protection Agency phases out high global warming potential refrigerants. The International Institute of All-Natural Refrigeration has released a “Refrigerant Evaluator Tool” to help IIAR members and […]
he demand for industrial refrigeration equipment using natural refrigerants remains strong, driven by increased demand for cold storage capacity, regulatory requirements and corporate sustainability goals. The post-COVID supply chain challenges have eased, but lead times could increase amid uncertainties around tariffs, geopolitical disruptions, and supply and demand. “We see both contractors and end users nervous […]
he New York State Department of Environmental Conservation (DEC) has finalized regulations required by the Climate Leadership and Community Protection Act to reduce emissions from hydrofluorocarbons (HFCs) and sulfur hexafluoride (SF6). “New York has aligned with, but in a lot of respects, also gone above and beyond California and Washington. It isn’t that New York […]
PUTTING AMERICA FIRST IN INTERNATIONAL ENVIRONMENTAL AGREEMENTS Similar to Trump’s first term, he has taken action to withdraw the United States from international environmental agreements. This order directed the immediate withdrawal from the Paris Agreement under the United Nations Framework Convention on Climate Change. It also calls for withdrawal from any agreement, pact, accord, or […]
haritable giving can take many forms. Whether you gift on an annual basis or you are planning to make a one-time gift, make sure you are maximizing the tax benefits associated with your gift. One way to do this is to compare gifting cash versus stock. Most people donate to charity in the form of […]
IIAR serves as a valuable resource for education and training for its members, and took its training on the road, sharing information on IIAR, codes, standards, guidelines, and operational, testing and maintenance situations with end users from Trident Seafoods in Alaska. Tony Lundell, senior director of standards and safety for IIAR, traveled to Wrangell, Alaska, […]
BY TONY LUNDELL, CIRO, PMP, IIAR SENIOR DIRECTOR OF STANDARDS AND SAFETY IIAR 1: ANSI/IIAR 1-2022 Standard for Definitions and Terminology Used in IIAR Standards is presently in effect. It will be opened up for review starting in mid-2026 for its next revision with a targeted completion with ANSI approval in 2027. Jake Denison serves […]
IIAR staff and IIAR’s many volunteer committees were hard at work throughout 2024 and have strengthened the membership offerings, provided valuable education, and furthered the organization’s mission through advocacy, work with regulatory agencies and new partnerships INDUSTRY OUTREACH Gary Schrift, president of IIAR, said the association has been focused on outreach. “We’ve been taking the […]
IIAR has welcomed new members to its board of directors and the executive committee for the 2025-2026 term. The IIAR board plays a critical role in strategic planning and advancing the association’s initiatives. Wayne Webber with Vilter Manufacturing will serve as chairman. “Wayne has been an integral part of IIAR forever. He has spent a […]
In a world where energy efficiency and sustainability are no longer optional, industrial refrigeration companies are now leveraging advanced technologies and innovative practices to not only meet regulatory demands, but also to redefine what it means to achieve operational success. As businesses face increasing pressure to reduce their environmental impact and operating costs, low-charge ammonia […]
ABSTRACT The 8th edition of the State of the Industry Report has evolved to include more information from IIAR Survey questions and observations of industry leaders. Emerging information on regulatory and training developments and IIAR’s influence on the industry continues to grow. IIAR’s efforts in standards development, advocacy, and the government relations sector are more […]
uring the annual IIAR Industrial Refrigeration Conference & Exhibition, industry experts will present technical papers for the IIAR Technical Program, as well as a range of topics. “Sustainability and decarbonization topics are of great interest and many topics are related to this,” said Eric Smith, IIAR’s vice president and technical director. “There are several papers […]
IIAR’s 2025 Natural Refrigeration Conference & Expo will take place in Phoenix, Arizona, from March 2-5, offering the natural refrigerant industry valuable technical knowledge, networking opportunities, and industry-sponsored events. “We have the largest exhibit hall in the history of IIAR, including heavy equipment, with two full mornings and one evening of exhibit hall time. The […]
IAR had a successful three-day conference and expo in Guadalajara, Mexico, with 14 countries participating and a record number of attendees, including a large percentage of end-users and contractors. “More than 30% of attendees were end users, and about 33% were contractors. That means about 65% of the people attending are those in the industry […]
New York has introduced the Cap-and-Invest Program to help the state achieve the greenhouse gas emission reduction requirements outlined in the State’s Climate Leadership and Community Protection Act. he program would set an annual cap on greenhouse gas emissions, which declines over time. A portion of the proceeds from the purchase of emissions allowances would […]
The 2024 election delivered Donald Trump a victory in the Electoral College, along with Republican majorities (albeit by thin margins) in both the House and Senate. As the President-Elect prepares to return to the White House he is beginning to bring forward nominees for key government posts that may shed light on regulatory policies impacting […]
BY KEM RUSSELL ometimes, lessons need to be repeated, which can be a good thing depending on the experience you are going through for the lesson. Even tough lessons can help. As we slide into winter and the La Nina projections for the coming months, an experience I had last year was a lesson learned […]
IIAR recently presented the sessions IIAR Suite of Standards Update and Summary of Natural Refrigerants Codes & Standards at the RETA National Conference. “RETA and IIAR simultaneously are marching/striving to continuously improve the refrigeration industry for its design, installation, startup, inspection, testing, and maintenance, as well as decommissioning where applicable, through training to make the […]
BY TONY LUNDELL, CIRO, PMP, IIAR SENIOR DIRECTOR OF STANDARDS AND SAFETY IIAR 1: ANSI/IIAR 1-2022 Standard for Definitions and Terminology Used in IIAR Standards is presently in effect. It will be opened up for review starting in mid-2026 for its next revision with a targeted completion with ANSI approval in 2027. Rich Merrill serves […]
IIAR held its first IIAR-6 certificate course at the 2024 RETA National Conference in October. The course features seven modules and covers everything from the purpose of the standard to safety systems. “The course permitted a focused time to cover the entire course with great input that brought the registrant’s knowledge and skill to […]
Cues and Confirmation Your Piping is in Jeopardy: A COMPARISON OF 20+ YEARS OF NDT DATA WITH FIELD OBSERVATIONS+ SUZY VOHSEN, DIRECTOR, MARKETING AND CLIENT SERVICES LIXI, INC., AND GAMMA GRAPHICS SERVICES (GGS) ABSTRACT mmonia refrigeration system managers are looking for more useful information regarding risk mitigation and compliance because they need to determine whether […]
We’re all back at work after a fun and successful annual conference in Orlando, and now it’s time to set some new goals and carry the momentum of our recent meeting into the rest of the year. The post-conference return to projects and deadlines also marks the beginning of the membership renewal process for the […]
t’s IIAR conference time again, which means immediately following the March Conference, in April 2024, it will be time to begin the membership renewal process for the 2024-2025 IIAR Membership year which runs from July 2024 through June 2025. I invite you to renew your IIAR membership and continue to receive into the next year […]
BY JOSEPH SCHWEITZER, MARKETING MANAGER, COLMAC COIL oger was born in Missoula, Montana, to Jerry and Gwen McMillan. He spent his early childhood in Spokane, Washington, and then Jerry and Gwen relocated their dry-cleaning business to Colville, Washington, where Jerry invented specialized laundry machines and started the Colmac businesses. After Roger earned a Master of […]
ompanies nationwide are phasing out high global-warming potential refrigerants as they comply with federal and state regulatory requirements and meet their corporate ESG and climate goals. The natural refrigerant industry is prepared to meet increasing demand. “Major OEMs are saying, ‘We’re ready. We’re excited. Let’s move forward,” said Tristam Coffin, cofounder of Effecterra and president […]
he refrigeration industry has experienced several notable mergers and acquisitions, addressing the increasing need for ultralow global warming potential refrigerant technologies and solutions. “It’s an exciting time in our industry as we continuously seek new opportunities to accelerate the deployment and adoption of safe and sustainable solutions and services,” said Claude Allain, president, Johnson Controls […]
In October 2023, Environmental Protection Agency (EPA) Administrator Michael Regan signed the Final Rule Technology Transitions authorized under the American Innovation and Manufacturing Act designed to phase down hydrofluorocarbon (HFC) use. The AIM Act authorizes EPA to address HFCs in three main ways: (1) phasing down their production and consumption, (2) promulgating specific regulations for […]
Ammonia (IIAR Suite of Standards) IIAR 1: ANSI/IIAR 1-2022 Standard for Definitions and Terminology Used in IIAR Standards is presently in effect. It will be opened up for review starting in mid-2026 for its next revision with a targeted completion with ANSI approval in 2027. Rich Merrill serves as the IIAR 1 subcommittee chair and […]
IAR’s 2024 annual Natural Refrigeration Conference & Expo in Orlando, Florida, March 24-27 will provide technical knowledge, networking and industry-sponsored events for those involved in the natural refrigerant industry. There will be numerous educational opportunities throughout the conference, and attendees can earn professional development hours “We have a fantastic program this year, with several new […]
uring the annual IIAR Industrial Refrigeration Conference & Exhibition, industry experts will present technical papers for the IIAR Technical Program. This year’s papers will address several key categories, including heat exchangers, cold storage, ammonia charge, CO2 optimization and more. There is also a series of workshops and panels that will discuss various other topics. Eric […]
raining at ammonia refrigeration facilities is critical to ensure safety and comply with regulatory requirements. Nearly everyone who works at a location with ammonia onsite needs training, even if they don’t work on the systems directly. “Training is everything. Without a great training program, you’re asking for trouble,” said Aaron Christopherson, EHS manager at E. […]
IAR staff and IIAR’s many volunteer committees were hard at work throughout 2023 and have strengthened the membership offerings, provided valuable education, and furthered the organization’s mission through advocacy, work with regulatory agencies and new partnerships. OFFICE IMPROVEMENTS IIAR’s staff and back-office systems keep the association running smoothly and ensure members get the support and […]
Carbon-Dioxide System Relief Sizing WILLIAM GREULICH, KENSINGTON CONSULTING CILLERS KRUGER, KORF TECHNOLOGY, LTD ABSTRACT Generally, safety standards for refrigeration systems require the placement of at least one overpressureprotection device on all carbon-dioxide (R-744) systems as well as on vessels manufactured in accordance with the American Society of Mechanical Engineers Boiler and Pressure Vessel Code, Section […]
Chuck Hansen huck Hansen, a serial entrepreneur who was always at the center of things, passionately expanding connections and networks to advance the natural refrigeration industry, build his visionary products, and mentor the next generation of engineers, has passed away at the age of 100. Hansen was the founder of Hansen Technologies and Hantemp Controls, […]
AIM ACT ADVANCES AS INDUSTRY PREPARES FOR HFC PHASEDOWN THE AIM ACT ADVANCES HE U.S. ENVIRONMENTAL PROTECTION AGENCY HAS FINALIZED THE SECOND REGULATION UNDER THE AMERICAN INNOVATION AND MANUFACTURING ACT, ADVANCING RULES THAT WILL RESTRICT THE USE OF HYDROFLUOROCARBONS. “With the second regulation finalized, the EPA is addressing technology transition. It previously focused on production and […]
Private Equity Interest in Refrigeration Continues to Increase Several industries are experiencing consolidation, including refrigeration, and Condenser sat down with Harry Gray, CEO of Kelvin Group, to learn more about changes that are taking place. Let’s start by talking about Kelvin Group’s acquisitions. How many companies have you acquired? A We’ve acquired nine so far. […]
IAR, the Industrial Refrigeration Consortium (IRC), and the Global Cold Chain Alliance are continuing their work to provide information on ammonia systems, including their principles of operation, major subsystem components, and materials of construction, to the Occupational Safety and Health Administration’s compliance safety and health officers. Two trainings took place in 2023 and the groups […]
On October 5th, Environmental Protection Agency (EPA) Administrator Michael Regan signed the Final Rule Technology Transitions authorized under the American Innovation and Manufacturing Act designed to phase down hydrofluorocarbon (HFC) use. The AIM Act authorizes EPA to address HFCs in three main ways: (1) phasing down their production and consumption, (2) promulgating certain regulations for […]
n the ammonia refrigeration industry, maintaining the proper filling levels of pressure vessels is essential for safety, efficiency, and regulatory compliance. Appropriately filled vessel ensures that ammonia refrigeration systems operate optimally, reducing energy consumption and preventing safety hazards “Geographical locations and weather conditions can cause thermostatic or hydrostatic expansion depending on temperatures in the area, […]
In the industrial ammonia refrigeration industry, we make a considerable effort to stay informed and up to date on programs that should be followed. The effort put into these programs varies depending on factors such as the specific system design and operation; the resources (people) available; the effort that can be done on programs due […]
raining is essential for anyone working with refrigerants, and IIAR has a long history of serving as a valuable resource for education and training for its members. The association recently took that support to the next level for Trident Seafoods in Alaska. “Being in Alaska, remote from the other USA states, it’s hard for everyone […]
new report prepared for the New York State Department of Conservation highlights opportunities for and barriers to the adoption of natural refrigerants, outlines the availability of natural refrigerants by end-use sector, provides recommendations and considerations for policymakers to address the obstacles to natural refrigerants adoption, and lists ideas for pilot projects. “New York state laws […]
IAR and the Natural Refrigerant Foundation held their board meetings in Dallas in October. Gary Schrift, president of IIAR, said the meetings were well attended. During the sessions, committee chairs provided updates on the critical work they are doing. RESEARCH COMMITTEE PROJECTS The Research Committee is working on several important projects and looking ahead to […]
DON FAUST, TRAINING MANAGER, FRICK, A JOHNSON CONTROLS COMPANY ABSTRACT The goal of any industrial refrigeration system is to remove heat. Therefore, the total heat load is the design engineer’s first calculation, which is then used to size and select the evaporators. Unfortunately, this heat load is often also applied to the sizing of other […]
LIMITING GROWTH, CREATING CHALLENGES The refrigeration industry has been facing a shortage of skilled workers for years, and the problem continues to grow, creating significant challenges, disrupting essential operations, and limiting growth. “At a high level, the workforce shortage creates a bottleneck that threatens the industry’s ability to meet regulatory timelines,” said Danielle Wright, executive […]
The months after IIAR’s annual conference are always when I think about the next membership year ahead. While there’s always a lot going on in these last few days of summer, it’s nice to pause for a moment and reflect on what it means to be an IIAR member and our new plans for the […]
As we wrap up a busy, and hopefully restful, summer, I want to take this opportunity to welcome everyone – new and renewing members alike – to IIAR. I know I’m well into my term as your IIAR Chairman, but this welcome, and re-welcome, is in order because our membership is always growing, and your […]
The 2024 IIAR Natural Refrigeration Conference & Heavy Equipment Expo, March 24-27, in Orlando, will bring several significant changes from previous years, including an updated schedule and an exclusive Natural Refrigeration Foundation Fun Day. “Ultimately our post-conference survey received many positive improvement recommendations with most people not wanting a longer conference, but many people wanting […]
Managing risk is an important part of any business, but especially for those that work with refrigerants, which can create a safety hazard if they aren’t handled properly. However, the best ways to manage and estimate risk aren’t always clear cut. “I think known, high-level risk is assessed regularly and most often effectively. The risk […]
On July 13th, the U.S. Department of Labor’s Occupational Safety and Health Administration (OSHA) announced a new national emphasis program (NEP) targeting workplace hazards in warehouses, processing facilities distribution centers, and high-risk retail establishments. While the NEP is not focused on ammonia refrigeration systems like the NEP on chemical facilities, many facilities using natural refrigerants […]
The IIAR HC (Hydrocarbon) Standard has continued to move forward and was recently released for its first public review. The 45-day public review ran from July 7 through August 21. As of early August, the standard had received 92 comments. “Having the standard out for public review is great progress. The committee has gotten it […]
Have you ever thought about your understanding of the equipment and tools we use as well as the entire refrigeration system(s)? Many times, or maybe all of the time we assume we or someone else understands until something happens. This may be like the definition of confidence I have heard, which is “That feeling you […]
IIAR has recently had its June board meeting, and the board took action on several critical IIAR standards and initiatives, welcomed new committee chairs, and celebrated members who have devoted valuable time and expertise to the industry. The board approved IIAR doing business as the International Institute of All-Natural Refrigeration to help demonstrate IIAR’s role […]
Creating Your Financial Legacy All parents aspire to build a life for their children that is better than the one they lived. One way many parents seek to accomplish this worthy endeavor is by building a strong financial legacy. If you are fortunate enough to accumulate more wealth than previous generations of your family, you […]
Klaas Visser IIAR’s success hinges on the involvement of its members. The association would like to pay tribute to Klass Visser, who recently passed away. Klass authored the technical paper that follows this memorial, and we would like to honor his memory and express our gratitude to him for all the shared time and expertise […]
K. VISSER, HON.M.IIR , FINSTR, M . IIAR, M.ARA, M.KNVVK, M.EURAMON PRINCIPAL, KAV CONSULTING PTY LTD ABSTRACT Over the past 20 years or so the use of CO2 refrigerant as the first stage of CO2/HFC and CO2/NH3 cascade systems has increased significantly. The use of two-stage transcritical CO2 systems, which are invariably air cooled, is […]
The International Institute of Ammonia Refrigeration 2023 Annual Natural Refrigeration Conference & Expo in Long Beach, California. The event provided four days of technical knowledge, networking, and industry-sponsored events for those involved in the natural refrigeration industry. Roughly 1,700 attendees took part in the show and IIAR set a new record with its exhibit space. […]
Our Annual Conference in Long Beach was a great success, and now that the flurry of committee meetings, networking events, and technical discussions have ended and we’re all back at work, it’s time to set some new goals and carry the momentum of our recent meeting into the rest of the year. For the executive […]
Conference time has come and gone, and there’s a lot to look forward to this year. For the executive committee and your staff at headquarters, that means everyone is working hard to make sure our recent initiatives – from the AIM Act to our focus on developing IIAR member benefits to the many new projects […]