Recent Blog Posts

Provision for Refrigerant Removal

August 4th, 2015

Most people who have worked around the ammonia refrigeration industry for any period of time recognize the importance that strainers play in the proper operation and maintenance of an ammonia refrigeration system. Typically located upstream of control valves, strainers perform the important function of filtering out debris that would otherwise damage control valves and prove […]

Ventilation System Dampers

June 23rd, 2015

I recently interacted with IIAR (International Institute of Ammonia Refrigeration) on the issue of ventilation system dampers. My original question, along with the response from IIAR is included below: Question: ANSI/IIAR 2 Addendum B §13.3.3.4 requires that “If motorized dampers are utilized they shall be of the power to close and spring to open type.” […]

Pipe Bending

April 27th, 2015

During a recent Mechanical Integrity Inspection, I ran across a pipe that had been bent to facilitate proper joining during installation. My instinct was to view the bent pipe as a Mechanical Integrity deficiency. After reviewing the most current Refrigeration Piping Code (ASME B31.5 §529) I learned that pipe bending is allowed within the limitations defined in the code. Here’s […]

Q&A | NFPA 704 and Ammonia

February 25th, 2015

Question: What is the correct NFPA 704 placard for an ammonia refrigeration system?   Answer: This question has caused enormous confusion in the ammonia refrigeration industry, so I will attempt to bring some clarity to the issue. ANSI/IIAR 2-2008 Addendum B §13.1.10.4 requires that “Refrigerating systems shall be provided with approved informative signs, emergency signs, charts and […]

Mechanical Integrity 101 | Ammonia Diffusion Tanks

February 2nd, 2015

Since 1994, ammonia refrigeration systems subject to the requirements of the Uniform Mechanical Code or California Mechanical Code have been required to install an Ammonia Diffusion Tank for the purpose of relief valve termination. Originally, the codes required the following: 1994 UMC §1119 Ammonia Discharge Ammonia systems shall be provided with an emergency discharge into a tank of water provided exclusively for […]