Author: developer

Uriah Donaldson, Gabriel Gutierrez, Winners of the 2023 IIAR Award for Presentation Excellence

Uriah Donaldson, a process safety consultant and account manager for Resource Compliance, received IIAR’s 2023 Award for Presentation Excellence for his outstanding description of “The Cost of Non-Compliance: An Objective Analysis of Federal EPA’s Enforcement at Ammonia Facilities” during IIAR’s 2023 Annual Conference in Long Beach, California. Gabriel Gutierrez, a mechanical engineer and sales manager […]

Natural Refrigeration Foundation Annual Golf Tournament a Success

The Natural Refrigeration Foundation has raised more than $73,000 at its annual golf tournament. The foundation promotes the climate-positive, safe, reliable, and efficient use of natural refrigerants through research and scholarships to develop industry talent, academic alliances, and outreach. “Although there are other research projects in the works for the refrigeration industry, the scholarship program […]

Industrial Refrigeration Faces Significant Cybersecurity Risks

The use of technology in the industrial refrigeration industry continues to increase, and automation and internet control of facilities are becoming commonplace. The benefits of automation and control are massive, but there is also a downside. The systems can be vulnerable to attack, making cybersecurity measures essential to protect against cyber threats. “Large refrigeration facilities […]

Heat Pumps Hold Potential in Household and Commercial Applications

Heat pumps can significantly reduce energy consumption and greenhouse gas emissions, and the adoption of heat pumps is continuing to increase in both household and industrial applications as technology advances. “The biggest innovation in the heat pump space is the introduction of CO2 into the industrial sector. Because of the heat potential of CO2, heat […]

Work Continues on IIAR Standards

The Standards Committee is continuing its work on revisions of several standards, which must be reviewed and revised a minimum of every five years by the American National Standards Institute (ANSI) for IIAR to remain as an accredited Standards Developing Organization (SDO). Updates for each standard were given during the IIAR Standards Committee Meeting at […]

IIAR Remembers Members for Their Service and Contributions

IAR’s success hinges on the involvement of its members, and the association would like to pay tribute to several members who have passed away. These members generously shared their time and expertise with IIAR and the industry, and they will be missed. Saul Beck Saul Beck passed away on December 11th at the age of […]

IIAR, RETA Work to Increase Diversity, Equity, and Inclusion in the Industry

ndustrial refrigeration has long been a male-dominated industry with women being few and far between, whether it be at the end user, contractor, or manufacturer level, but that is changing. “There have been concerted efforts over the past several years focused on bringing women into the industry, and as an industry undergoing this shift, it’s […]

Keeping Up by Dr. Janet Lapp

BY DR. JANET LAPP he increase in the volume of work resulting from regulatory changes is superimposed on a backset of a) unprecedented instability and b) an increasing and overwhelming number of decisions we are forced to make daily.   The 2022 Collins Dictionary word of the year ‘permacrisis’ means an ‘extended period instability and […]

OSHA Nears Completion of Final Rule on Injury and Illness Recordkeeping Requirements

In April 7, 2023, the Occupational Safety and Health Administration (OSHA) submitted its latest injury and illness recordkeeping proposal to the Office of Information and Regulatory Affairs (OIRA). Submission to OIRA usually marks the last step in the rulemaking process before a Final Rule is published. Injury and illness recordkeeping has been the subject of […]

Weighing the Choice between NCIAL Taxable and Tax-Free Bonds

f you’re considering the purchase of an individual bond or even a bond mutual fund, one of your first concerns will be its yield. However, when comparing various yields, you need to make sure you’re not comparing apples to oranges. The yield on a tax-free bond may be lower than that paid by a taxable […]

Lesson Learned: Bad Decommissioning Mistake

I am sure that many of us have seen ammonia refrigeration systems that have operated for several decades, with equipment and system components functioning well past recommended operating life. This is a credit to manufacturers, installers, service technicians, and operators. Aging equipment and piping at some point will eventually require replacement. Or the system or […]

Benefit of Ammonia Heat Pump Implementation in the Industry and for District Heating

Kenneth Hoffmann, Application Manager Heat Pumps, Gea Heating And Refrigeration Technologies ABSTRACT ver the last 15 years the market for high-temperature ammonia heat pumps has been growing in Europe and now it is also taking off in North America. That period in Europe has yielded many lessons as higher pressure and temperature present new challenges […]

President’s Message by Gary Shrift

The International Institute of Ammonia Refrigeration is growing, both within the United States and abroad, thanks to the use of natural refrigerants, and nowhere is this more evident than at the IIAR annual conference. This year, we’ll meet in person in Long Beach, California to discuss everything from HFC phaseouts to the AIM Act, to […]

Chairman’s Message

As I wind up my year as chairman of our International Association of Industrial Refrigeration, I look back and see all the wonderful accomplishments that you – our members and committees have achieved – setting the stage for even more in the year ahead. First on my list is the newly formed IIAR AIM Act […]

High Growth For Low Charge

he pace of adoption of low-charge and packaged systems continues to increase as government regulations, sustainability initiatives, safety precautions, and technology advance. “There has been a drive to reduce refrigerant charge in all refrigeration,” said John Collins, industrial sales manager for Zero Zone. “The synthetic refrigerants containing HFC compounds are being regulated. Current and proposed […]

IIAR Annual Conference Heads to Long Beach

he International Institute of Ammonia Refrigeration 2023 annual Natural Refrigeration Conference & Expo will take place in Long Beach, California, March 12th15th with a Foundation Golf Outing on March 11th and the first ever Foundation Pickleball/Cornhole Tournament on March 12th. The event provides four days of technical knowledge, networking, and industry-sponsored events for those involved […]

Identifying Hazards Using Appropriate Assessment Techniques

he United States EPA National Enforcement and Compliance Assurance Program implemented several national compliance initiatives (NCIs) effective for FY2020-2023. One of these NCIs is titled “Reducing Risks of Accidental Releases at Industrial and Chemical Facilities”. IIAR has received notice from the EPA and several end-users that one area of their focus is to determine whether […]

Technical Papers Provide In-Depth Thought Leadership at the IIAR Conference

uring the annual IIAR Industrial Refrigeration Conference & Exhibition, industry experts will come together to present technical papers at the IIAR Technical Program. This year’s papers will address several key categories, including carbon dioxide, security, and safety. Eric Smith, IIAR’s vice president and technical director, said the papers provide breadth and depth that isn’t available […]

Update on IIAR Standards: 2023

IAR is the world’s leading advocate for the safe, reliable, and efficient use of ammonia and other natural refrigerants as well as an ANSI-accredited standards developer. IIAR is currently the only organization writing design and operation standards specifically for ammonia and other natural refrigeration systems. All IIAR Standards are developed to meet essential requirement criteria […]

EPA Proposes HFC Phase Down Rule for Refrigeration Sector

On December 9th, the U.S. Environmental Protection Agency (EPA) announced a proposed rule under the American Innovation and Manufacturing (AIM) Act to advance the transition to more efficient heating and cooling technologies by restricting the use of hydrofluorocarbons and refrigeration, air conditioning, and heat pump equipment beginning in 2025. EPA has listed entities potentially impacted […]

The Secure Act 2.0

he Setting Every Community Up for Retirement Enhancements (SECURE) Act increases saving opportunities for Americans. SECURE Act 2.0 was recently passed and contains roughly 90 separate provisions, many of which became effective on January 1, 2023. Below is a summary of some of the more substantial changes:   IMPORTANT DISCLOSURES The IIAR and NRF reserve […]

Code and Standards Road Map Overview

A lot has happened since 2019. IIAR, in its continuing mission to promote the safe and sustainable use of natural refrigerants, produced the ANSI/IIAR CO2-2021 Safety Standard for Closed-Circuit Carbon Dioxide Refrigeration Systems. As the phase-down of F-gas refrigerants continues to accelerate worldwide, CO2 technology has become an increasingly popular option utilized in the industrial […]

Colors of Ammonia?

If you have been around the ammonia refrigeration industry for a while you know ammonia is clear (colorless) unless it has been contaminated with impurities. However, over the last several years ammonia is more often being referred to with a color, which is not referring to the ammonia, but the process used to manufacture it. […]

IIAR Task Force Keeps Members Up to Date on the AIM Act

he American Innovation and Manufacturing Act (AIM) Act is expected to increase the long-term use of natural refrigerants and bring significant new opportunities to the natural refrigerant industry. To ensure those in the industry are aware of the changes and opportunities the AIM Act will bring, IIAR has formed the AIM Act Task Force, which […]

IIAR, RETA, GCCA, ASTI Form Coalition to Promote Natural Refrigerants

afety, prevention, and emergency response readiness are top priorities within the natural refrigerant industry, and the Ammonia Safety Training Institute, IIAR, Global Cold Chain Alliance, and Refrigerating Engineers & Technicians Association have come together to form the Ammonia Safety Day Coalition. “It is important for IIAR, RETA, and GCCA to partner with ASTI because we […]

President’s Message by Gary Schrift

It’s that time of year again, and I’m happy to welcome all IIAR members back to our most important event – the IIAR annual conference and exhibition! After years of pandemic travel restrictions and necessary safety measures, it feels good to be looking forward to an in-person conference again. And before I get into the […]

Chairman’s Message by Eric Johnston

A new year is upon us and with it has come so many exciting changes for IIAR. As we look forward to the first in-person annual conference in years, I’m looking back on all the wonderful achievements our organization has made in 2021. Despite a global pandemic and the inability to meet in person, our […]

Bridging the Gap: IIAR’s Newest Standard to Address Hydrocarbons in Industrial Refrigeration

IAR is nearing the completion of its first standard for hydrocarbons—such as propane and butane—in large refrigeration systems. Hydrocarbons have been used for years in the petrochemical industry and are increasingly used in some refrigeration applications. Those involved in creating the initial draft said developing a hydrocarbon standard was a natural extension of IIAR’s mission […]

Membership Dues Changes Bring Additional Value to Members

or the first time since 2006, IIAR has made changes to its membership structure, bringing new value and opportunities to those in the refrigeration industry. IIAR’s new membership structure will take effect on July 1, 2022, and the changes will increase the value of IIAR membership, promote recruitment and retention of members, and create financial […]

IIAR Annual Conference Returns with In-Person and Virtual Learning Opportunities

he International Institute of Ammonia Refrigeration 2022 annual Natural Refrigeration Conference & Expo will return to an in-person meeting this year in Savannah, Georgia, March 6-9, with a Foundation Golf Outing on March 5th. The event provides four days of technical knowledge, networking and industry-sponsored events for those involved in the natural refrigeration industry. IIAR […]

Conference Chair’s Message by Dave Malinauskas

Welcome to the 2022 IIAR Natural Refrigeration Conference & Exhibition! It’s the beginning of a new membership year for all of us at IIAR, and most importantly, it’s our first year “back” to normal in-person meetings. That means it’s time to meet new colleagues, network, and catch up with friends and business partners at our […]

Technical Papers Provide In-Depth Thought Leadership at the IIAR Conference

uring the annual IIAR Industrial Refrigeration Conference & Exhibition, industry experts will come together to present technical papers at the IIAR Technical Program. This year, the session will feature a dozen papers covering a broad range of topics. The papers will address several key categories, including commercial refrigeration applications, industrial use, energy efficiency, and safety […]

IIAR’s Global Reach Promotes Standards, Safety and Education Worldwide

s a global organization with members across the world, IIAR gives members the opportunity to learn from those with different experiences and points of view as well as improve the overall safety of the industrial refrigeration industry. “Our industry is dependent on good engineering practices, and it will not grow if we do not have […]

Regulatory Outlook for 2022 by Lowell Randel, IIAR Government Relations Director

As the Biden Administration enters its second year, agencies such as the Environmental Protection Agency (EPA) and Occupational Safety and Health Administration (OSHA) are preparing to take significant regulatory actions that will impact the industrial refrigeration industry. On December 15, 2021, the Biden Administration published its regulatory agenda, which outlines the plans of federal agencies […]

Awareness and Attention

Being aware and paying attention to what’s around you, where you are, and what’s happening can be really important. Sometimes for whatever reason, we miss something that we may be looking right at, hearing, smelling, etc. I’m sure that we all have some lack of awareness and/or have not been paying attention at various times. […]

Pandemic Pressure and Growing Acceptance of Natural Refrigerants in Europe

By Monika Witt, Managing Director Of Th. Witt Gmbh, Germany, Eurammon Board Member s in other regions of the world, the past months have been heavily influenced by the global pandemic. But despite or perhaps because of the pressures introduced by the pandemic, business in European industrial refrigeration has increased quite a lot, and as […]

Benefit of Ammonia Heat Pump Implementation in the Industry and for District Heating by Kenneth Hoffman, Application Manager heat pumps, GEA heating and refrigeration technologies

KENNETH HOFFMANN, APPLICATION MANAGER HEAT PUMPS, GEA HEATING AND REFRIGERATION TECHNOLOGIES ABSTRACT ver the last 15 years the market for high-temperature ammonia heat pumps has been growing in Europe and now it is also taking off in North America. That period in Europe has yielded many lessons as higher pressure and temperature present new challenges […]

President’s Message by Gary Schrift

Our first in-person Annual Conference since the pandemic began 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. […]

Chairman’s Message By Trevor Hegg

As we conclude our first in person conference in over three years, I’m excited to introduce myself as your new Board Chairman and tell you that, this year, the opportunities for our organization are huge. In this issue of the Condenser, you’ll read about one of them, the American Innovation and Manufacturing (AIM) Act. The […]

IIAR Forms AIM Act Task Force

he American Innovation and Manufacturing (AIM) Act regulations promulgated by the Environmental Protection Agency will restrict refrigerants’ allowable global warming potential throughout the United States and it is expected to increase the long-term use of natural refrigerants. IIAR has formed the AIM Task Force to help learn more about the AIM Act’s requirements and how […]

IIAR Members Return to First Post-Covid Conference

he International Institute of Ammonia Refrigeration 2022 annual Natural Refrigeration Conference & Expo held its first in person meeting since 2019 this year in Savannah, Georgia, March 6-9. CONNECTING WITH PEERS, COLLEAGUES, AND EXHIBITORS The event attracted 1,272 attendees and 122 exhibitors and provided four days of technical knowledge, networking, and industry-sponsored events for those […]

IIAR Honors Members for Outstanding Contributions

uring IIAR’s annual conference and expo, IIAR honored Dave Schaefer with the Member of the Year Award and Joe Pillis and Jeff Shapiro with Honorary Lifetime Member Awards. “All three—Dave, Jeff, and Joe—are well deserving of the awards,” said Kurt Liebendorfer, vice president of Evapcold. Schaefer served as chief engineer for Bassett Mechanical before retiring […]

IIAR Announces Regulatory Initiatives

IAR dedicated time to updating members on the latest regulatory initiatives during its annual conference. Lowell Randel, director of government affairs for IIAR, discussed several areas of focus for the association and the natural refrigerant industry. CYBER SECURITY CONSIDERATIONS Randel told attendees that the risks of cyberattacks are increasing, and DHS is encouraging companies of […]

IIAR’s Foundation Focuses on its Three Pillars, Prepares to Change Name

he foundation focuses on three pillars—research, educational training, and educational scholarships—and has had a successful year supporting each of these areas. During IIAR’s annual meeting and expo, Dave Schaefer, chairman of the Ammonia Refrigeration Foundation, provided an update on the foundation’s accomplishments. FINALIZING RESEARCH PROJECTS The foundation moved forward on three research projects: a guide […]

Foundation Scholarships Help Students Gain New Insights into the Natural Refrigeration Industry

he Natural Refrigeration Foundation, which supports research and education programs benefiting the industrial refrigeration industry, awarded its largest scholarship commitment to date. The scholarship program provides a unique opportunity for students to learn about a technical field, attend IIAR’s national conference, be financially rewarded and contribute to the future of the planet. In addition to […]

IIAR, RETA Celebrate and Encourage Women in the Industry

IIAR hosted its first women’s networking reception during the annual meeting and expo, celebrating women in the industry and providing a venue for them to connect. “I’m always impressed with the women’s drive and what they’ve accomplished. We tend to be humbled by ourselves, but there are so many wonderful and smart women in our […]

Automatic Oil Return Systems: Why, When, and How?

afe oil draining is a subject that is well documented in IIAR publications, and workshops dealing with proper oil draining are always well-attended. Removing oil from an ammonia refrigeration system is routine maintenance that nearly every ammonia refrigeration system operator will encounter sooner or later. One major advantage of ammonia systems is that oils are […]

IIAR Continues Work Updating and Developing Standards

IAR is known for its development of standards, and to date, IIAR has published nine ammonia standards and one CO2 standard. Per ANSI requirements, each standard must be updated at least every five years. “In this past year, IIAR has updated its flagship IIAR-2 standard, and released a new CO2 standard,” said Gary Schrift, president […]

Tax Planning for Each Generation

he utility of different tax strategies can fluctuate with your age and where you are in your career. Below we’ll take a look at how various tax strategies may apply to each generation. GENERATION Z Whether they’re working part-time during high school or starting a career, members of Generation Z typically fall into one of […]

EPA Continues Work to Implement AIM Act

By Lowell Randel, IIAR Government Relations Director The Environmental Protection Agency is continuing its work to implement the American Innovation and Manufacturing (AIM) Act of 2020. The AIM Act authorizes EPA to address HFCs in three main ways: (1) phase-down HFC production and consumption through an allowance allocation and trading program (2) Facilitate sector-based transitions […]

Learning About Learning

Kem Russell, P.E Many times we don’t think about how we learn, which is something we are or should be doing most of our lives. This fact was brought home to me this past winter as I became involved as an instructor in a winter sport I like. As I was learning to be an […]

Presidents Message by Gary Schrift

It’s that time of year again: after the conference and before we dive into the travel and rushed schedules of a new membership season. While there’s always a lot going on, these last few days of summer are a great time to reflect on what it means to be an IIAR member and what new […]

Chairman’s Message by Trevor Hegg

I’m always impressed by the incredible progress IIAR makes on our industry’s goals every day and every week. It may be more exciting to write or hear about the big news – an updated standard, or a new member service – but just as important are the little things. Those things we don’t see but […]

Costa Rica Moves on Mandatory IIAR Standards

Ammonia Refrigeration Education Key To Adoption ll IIAR standards, including the Carbon Dioxide standard, ANSI/IIAR CO2, have been adopted within Costa Rica on a voluntary basis as National Norms, and the country is moving forward with its plans to make the standards mandatory. The next step is to prepare and educate industry professionals in the […]

What happened to the IIAR Bulletins?

BY TONY LUNDELL, CIRO, PMP, IIAR SENIOR DIRECTOR OF STANDARDS AND SAFETY What happened to the IIAR Bulletins? Short Answer: The IIAR Bulletins were all “Superseded!” Let’s discuss the history of the onset of IIAR Bulletins and how their material was eventually distributed and captured to become superseded. First, let’s step back and discuss how […]

Automatic Oil Return Systems: Why, When, and How? By Monika Witt, TH. Witt

afe oil draining is a subject that is well documented in IIAR publications, and workshops dealing with proper oil draining are always well-attended. Removing oil from an ammonia refrigeration system is routine maintenance that nearly every ammonia refrigeration system operator will encounter sooner or later. One major advantage of ammonia systems is that oils are […]

IIAR Releases Second Edition of Guidelines on Manual Hand Valves

he IIAR Compliance Committee has updated the Guideline for Developing an Energy Control Plan for Manual Hand Valves and released a second edition. “After a guideline has been out and used in the industry, members and users will ask questions and provide input for consideration to make the guideline even clearer to use or capture […]

Natural Refrigerants Continue to Grow in Retail

doption of natural technologies in new and existing retail space is increasing as companies work to increase sustainability while meeting consumer, employer and shareholder expectations. “Many retailers, especially national chains, are prepared to make very large investments to significantly reduce their carbon footprint by converting to naturals in existing stores,” said Danielle Wright, executive director […]

Circuit Court Supports Tampa Electric’s Response to a Release

he Eleventh Circuit has rejected an appeal from the Occupational Safety and Health Administration in the case against Tampa Electric Co. and its response to an ammonia release at a power generating facility in 2017. The court of appeals upheld the finding that the release was controlled and the clauses pertaining to emergency response were […]

Bonds, Interest Rates, and the Impact of Inflation

here are two fundamental ways that you can profit from owning bonds: from the interest that bonds pay, and from any increase in the bond’s price. Many people who invest in bonds because they want a steady stream of income are surprised to learn that bond prices can fluctuate, just as they do with any […]

Climate Change Policy in the Spotlight By Lowell Randel, IIAR Government Relations Director

President Biden has made addressing climate change a signature priority for his administration. Since his election, climate change policies have been at the forefront of agency actions, Congressional deliberations, and, most recently, before the Supreme Court. One of Biden’s early actions was for the United States to rejoin the Paris Agreement. He then created the […]

Always Learning

Kem Russell, P.E The following are some examples of being willing to learn versus not being willing to try to learn. EXAMPLE 1: At a large (+2000 TR) low-temperature ammonia facility the processing of the product occurred over a short period, so it was extremely important that the system operated very well. The low-side of […]

Managing Your Energy Costs: It Can Be Done!

James Majsak, Construction Manager Crossnokaye (Santa Barbara, Ca) ABSTRACT ll too often, energy management projects with good potential will fail for any number of reasons. Most of these failures will be a result of the project not addressing key requirements for success, or not meeting the expectations of all users throughout the organization. This report […]

President’s Message by Gary Schrift

This month I’m dedicating my column space to one of our organization’s most important ongoing activities, our membership. As an IIAR member, we all depend on you to take that essential first step to participate in the activism and advocacy of our industry, by keeping your membership current. If you are not yet a member, […]

Chairman’s Message

It seems like we were all just in Savannah, and now we’re looking at starting another membership year. That means we’re wrapping up preparations now for the next IIAR annual conference, in Long Beach, Calif., March 12- 15, and I’m approaching the last annual meeting during my term as Chairman. In each membership year, the […]

HYDROCARBONS: IIAR EXPANDS HORIZONS WITH NEW STANDARD

IAR is moving closer to completing its first standard for hydrocarbons—such as propane and butane—in refrigeration systems and is hoping to release the standard for public review in early 2023. “It is a complex process to develop a safety standard for multiple applications of a refrigerant of this level,” said Charles Hon, manager, engineering, sustainability, […]

IIAR Releases Updates to IIAR-1 and IIAR-3 Standards

IAR reviews and updates existing standards every five years for periodic maintenance and has recently released updates on IIAR 1 and IIAR 3. The periodic maintenance reviews and updates meet the “Procedures for the Development of IIAR Standards for ANSI Approval” and ANSI’s Essential Requirements. IIAR 1-2022 ANSI/IIAR 1 provides a unified set of definitions […]

IIAR Latin America Seminar Turns Out Record Attendees

he recent IIAR Seminar for Latin America in Guadalajara, Mexico, August 24- 26, brought together nearly 400 manufacturers, contractors, and end users from 12 countries for a unique opportunity to meet, learn and do business. Attendees took part in 14 technical paper presentations, five technomercials, networking events, and a heavy equipment exhibition. The event is […]

Refrigerant Leaks in Commercial Mechanical Equipment Rooms

BY MARK HEUCHERT, MARKETING MANAGER, DRAEGER, INC. INTRODUCTION ndustrial and commercial refrigeration systems use different types of heat transfer fluids (HTF), many of which are toxic and/or bad for the environment when they leak. The most common HTF refrigerants are Ammonia and hydrofluorocarbons (HFC), however while ammonia has a Global Warming Potential (GWP) of 0, […]

EPA’s Proposed Amendments to RMP Burdensome on Industry

he Environmental Protection Agency has proposed amendments to its Risk Management Program regulations, which include several changes to the accident prevention program requirements, enhancements to the emergency preparedness requirements, and increased public availability of chemical hazard information. “This is part of the back and forth of what the Obama Administration did, and the Trump Administration […]

IIAR Comments on Risk Management Programs

The Honorable Michael S. Regan Administrator U.S. Environmental Protection Agency 1200 Pennsylvania Avenue, N.W. Washington, DC 20460-0001 Re: Comments for Docket Number: Docket ID No. EPA-HQ-OLEM-2022-0174 Accidental Release Prevention Requirements: Risk Management Programs Under the Clean Air Act; Safer Communities by Chemical Accident Prevention Dear Administrator Regan, he undersigned organizations submit these comments regarding Docket […]

OSHA Considering Revisions to Process Safety Management Regulation

The U.S. Occupational Safety and Health Administration (OSHA) has recently taken steps to advance the rulemaking process to update the Process Safety Management (PSM) regulation. The OSHA effort is taking place in parallel to EPA’s Risk Management Program (RMP) rulemaking, raising concerns about coordination and consistency between the two regulatory schemes. The underlying rulemaking was […]

Concerned About Timing the Market?

uy low. Sell high.” While this age-old investment advice may seem simple, it can be extremely precarious due to its emphasis on market timing. During a bull market, investors following this advice may be reluctant to invest and too eager to sell. During a bear market, investors may be reluctant to sell and too eager […]

Its’ HOT!

KEM RUSSELL, P.E Sometimes it may be difficult to understand but we all have free agency to believe what we want. Some people believe the earth is flat. Some believe we never landed on the moon. I suppose there are people who believe those amazing photos from various robotic machines on Mars are fake too. […]

Don’t Curse the Purger

DON TRAGETHON CIRO, CRST, RAI | REGULATORY LIAISON, WESTERN PRECOOLING ABSTRACT he goal of operators, contractors, and design engineers is to operate a closed loop refrigeration system as close to design intent as possible. The owner wants maximum value from the equipment and personnel employed at the facility. The presence of gases that do not […]

President’s Message by Gary Schrift

In this February 2021 Edition of our Condenser Magazine, you will read about progress made with the California Air Resources Board, completion of the ice arena for the upcoming 2022 Olympics, an overview of research projects, and ANSI standards development…..all initiatives conducted by IIAR volunteers, members, and the organization as a whole towards furthering our […]

Chairman’s Message Dave Schaefer

It is with great regret that we have to cancel the face-to-face 2021 IIAR conference in Palm Springs, CA. However, we look forward to an exciting second virtual conference that will be as informative and widely watched as the fantastic first-ever 2020 All-Natural Refrigerant Virtual Conference. Instead of dwelling on what could have been with […]

The Covid Cold Chain

How the pandemic has changed the future efore COVID-19, the cold chain wasn’t on most people’s radar, but shifting consumer demands, concern over food supply and specific healthcare needs during a pandemic put it in the spotlight. “It changed last spring when we started to see disruptions and challenges in the early days of the […]

2022 Winter Olympics Embrace Natural Refrigerants, Set the Stage for the Future

or the first time, transcritical CO2 refrigeration will be used to make ice at a Winter Olympics, which will be hosted by Beijing in 2022, with the International Olympic Committee deciding to use CO2 refrigeration system for the most iconic venues for the Beijing Olympics. The decision, which the Beijing 2022 Organizing Committee announced as […]

The ANSI-Approval Process: A Step-By-Step Guide

ell-developed standards are critical. They can empower and strengthen users with regard to marketplace position and even the global economy. They also ensure the safety of consumers and that the environment is protected. “Knowing what is required by standardization saves both time and money,” said Tony Lundell, senior director of standards and safety for IIAR. […]

IIAR Improves Safety and Operations with Ongoing Research and Standards

s the world’s leading advocate for the safe, reliable and efficient use of ammonia and other natural refrigerants, research is a critical component of IIAR’s work. IIAR’s ongoing research projects lead to improved safety and more efficient operations while also shaping industry standards. CURRENT RESEARCH PROJECTS The IIAR Research Committee currently has three active research […]

Colmac Coil Manufacturing Announces Leadership Change

Colmac Coil Manufacturing has announced that Joe Fazzari, P.E., has been promoted to the position of President, Colmac Coil Manufacturing, effective January 1st, 2021. Fazzari succeeds immediate former President Bruce Nelson, P.E. who has transitioned to a new role as Director of Innovation of Colmac Coil Manufacturing. Fazzari will have the oversight of all operations […]

CARB Moves Forward on Low-GWP Requirements for California Ice Rinks

t the December meeting of the California Air Resources Board, the board voted to approve the proposed regulation on hydrofluorocarbons that established a 150 GWP limit for new ice rinks and other types of large refrigeration systems in locations such as cold storage warehousing. Based on the vote, the proposed regulation will be finalized mostly […]

Emergency Series Part 2: Emergency Shutdown and Response

Jen Allen, Allen Safety LLC This article has been updated from a previous version to distinguish the differences between a nuisance leak response and a HAZMAT response. Emergency response or responding to emergencies means a response effort by employees from outside the immediate release area or by other designated responders (i.e., mutual aid groups, local […]

Unknowns

By Kem Russell Participating in IIAR conferences, webinars, committees, and sub-committees has certainly increased my knowledge and my access to information. I have listened to and worked with very knowledgeable people from many backgrounds. Even after being involved in the ammonia refrigeration industry, and specifically IIAR for many decades, I am still learning. This reminds […]

Choosing Between Traditional and Roth IRA’s

ach year, individuals with earned income may decide to put $6,000 ($7,000 if age 50 or older) into an IRA to save for retirement. The decision to contribute to a traditional IRA versus a Roth IRA has several key considerations, such as eligibility, tax-deductibility, and current versus future tax rate. The below chart outlines some […]

Biden Administration Takes Early Action on Regulatory Policy and Climate Change

By Lowell Randel, IIAR Government Relations Director Joe Biden began his presidency on January 20th by signing a series of Executive Orders impacting a wide range of policy issues. In just the first 10 days of his Administration, Biden took 42 individual executive actions, many of which reversed policies instituted by former President Trump. Regulatory […]

Pressure Relief Design Considerations From a PSM Compliance Standpoint (Part One)

Bill Lape, SCS Engineers ressure relief design documentation is often the most misunderstood portion of the Process Safety Information required under 29 CFR 1910.119(d) (3)(i)(D) and 40 CFR Part 68.65(d)(1) (iv). The two regulations state that the relief system design AND design basis shall be included in the process safety information pertaining to the equipment […]

President’s Message by Gary Schrift

Buckling our seatbelts, filling our own gas tanks, sending an email, and burning propane or natural gas in our homes for heating was once unthinkable. These technologies replaced dad’s arm across your chest during a fast stop, the serviceman pumping gas and checking your oil level, typewriters and the mail service, and coal or wood-burning […]

Chairman’s Message By Eric Johnston

Conference time is here again and although it’s hard to think we’ll spend one more year meeting online rather than in person, there’s a lot to look forward to. For the executive committee and your staff at headquarters, that means everyone is working hard to make sure our recent initiatives – from the renewed focus […]

Pressure Relief Design Considerations From a PSM Compliance Standpoint (Part Two)

Bill Lape, SCS Engineers n the first article of this series, some of the factors that affect the relief capacity of a relief system that are often overlooked were highlighted to raise awareness of what is needed to properly document the safety relief design. In this article, we will discuss some of the pitfalls associated […]

EPA Takes Aim at the Future Proposed rulemaking Jumpstarts HFC phasedown

he U.S. Environmental Protection Agency has been given statutory authority to move forward with phasing down hydrofluorocarbons as part of the American Innovation and Manufacturing Act (AIM), which is expected to increase the long-term use of natural refrigerants. The agency has taken rapid action, and on May 3, it released its first proposed rulemaking under […]

IIAR Brings Synchronous Learning Opportunities to Industrial Refrigeration

OVID-19 has changed the way learning takes place across the globe with virtual opportunities and distance learning taking off as social distancing and travel restrictions have kept people out of classrooms. IIAR is among those groups that pivoted to provide valuable learning opportunities to those within the refrigeration industry. In March, IIAR partnered with Don […]

IIAR Annual Conference Continues with Virtual Platform

he International Institute of Ammonia Refrigeration 2021 annual Natural Refrigeration Conference & Expo will continue with its virtual format, providing four days of technical knowledge, networking, and industrysponsored events for those involved in the natural refrigeration industry. The event first went virtual in 2020 due to the COVID-19 pandemic. “This year, with the cancellation of […]

Industry Joins Together to Provide Valuable Training to OSHA Inspectors

ccupational Safety and Health Administration compliance officers are continuing to benefit from ammonia refrigeration education presented by the Industrial Refrigeration Consortium. The training, which is funded by IIAR, the Global Cold Chain Alliance, IRC, and OSHA, first launched in the fall of 2014. “As we all continue to advocate for expanded use of ammonia and […]

IIAR’s Annual Conference to Feature a Deep Dive on the Ammonia Piping Handbook

uring the 2021 Natural Refrigeration Conference and Expo, IIAR will offer a four-hour training on the IIAR Refrigeration Piping Handbook. “It will examine all the parts of the handbook and provide an overview of the content,” said Eileen McKeown, vice president for marketing and sales for IIAR. The educational session, Ammonia Piping Handbook Education Program: […]

IIAR Annual Conference Continues with Virtual Platform

he International Institute of Ammonia Refrigeration 2021 annual Natural Refrigeration Conference & Expo will continue with its virtual format, providing four days of technical knowledge, networking, and industry sponsored events for those involved in the natural refrigeration industry. The event first went virtual in 2020 due to the COVID-19 pandemic. “This year, with the cancellation […]

Technical Papers and Workshops at a Glance

RAGAGEP: Historical Variants and the Importance of IIAR Standards ecognized 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 move in the ammonia refrigeration industry towards standardization, yet there are historical variants which often cause confusion. This […]