Over a hundred years ago, people began to use ammonia in the refrigeration process. The use of this gas has waxed and waned over the years. However, today, many industries are showing a preference for an ammonia refrigeration system design over other options. It is becoming the refrigerant of choice for many industrial concerns – including green buildings. In fact, the Compound Annual Growth Rate(CAGR), according to some analysts, will continue to climb, reaching a 5.2% CAGR by the year 2020.
Why Choose Ammonia?
Several factors are driving the industrial preference for ammonia. The push to choose cleaner energy, together with sustainable environmental practices is driving industries utilizing refrigerants to choosing ammonia. This is one advantage. Others do exist. Among them are:
Cost-effectiveness: It is an economical means of providing the right qualities for large, cooling systems
Efficiency: Ammonia provides a very effective means of achieving the right level of cooling in the system without wasting energy. After all, it possesses excellent thermodynamic properties. In fact, experts in ammonia refrigeration system design claim it is between 3 and 10% more thermodynamically efficient than several other refrigerants.
Inexpensive: Ammonia is available at lower prices than such refrigerants as R134a
Environmentally friendly: Unlike other refrigerants, ammonia breaks down quite quickly in the air. It lasts less than a week. This combines with its zero ratings in two significant categories:
Global warming potential (GWP)
Ozone Depletion Potential (ODP)
Detectable odor: Although ammonia is toxic, it is easy to detect it in time to avert disaster. The gas has a distinct smell
Is it any wonder many industrial concerns are opting to use ammonia over the alternatives?
Ammonia Refrigeration System Design
Ammonia is a comparatively safe gas to employ as a refrigerant. While it does have certain drawbacks, its advantages outweigh them. Combining common sense with the best ammonia refrigeration system design available will also work in its favor, ensuring everyone remains safe.
