Recent Blog Posts

Ammonia Refrigeration Valve Tags

November 26th, 2024

This is an update to a blog that was originally posted on 10/4/16. You can read the original blog here. When reviewing an ammonia refrigeration Piping and Instrumentation Diagram (P&ID) and comparing it to the actual refrigeration system, I am often surprised at how often valves have not been physically labeled to match the P&ID. […]

Ammonia Release | Pinhole Leak

November 12th, 2024

Summary In September 2016, the development of a small hole in the wall of an ammonia suction pipe resulted in a release of 15 lbs of ammonia. Neglected insulation breaches allowed moisture to accumulate on carbon steel piping. This resulted in corrosion and eventually, a pinhole developed in the wall of the pipe.  Release Calculation […]

Ammonia Refrigeration System Oil Draining Requirements

October 29th, 2024

Ammonia refrigeration systems must be equipped with a means of draining oil from the system. Over time, small amounts of oil are carried out of the compressors and mix with the ammonia vapor. The ideal place to collect and drain this oil is on the low pressure side of the refrigeration system. The cold temperatures […]

Ammonia Release | Falling Ice Breaks Pipe

October 15th, 2024

Summary In December 2022, a falling piece of ice broke off a ¾” ammonia charging connection on a high pressure receiver. This resulted in a release of approximately 2,375 lbs of ammonia.  Incident Description Extreme weather conditions resulted in excessive ice buildup under the condenser platform. The high pressure receiver was located under the condenser […]

Q&A | Safe Access to Equipment

September 3rd, 2024

Question: Do I have to provide safe access to all of my ammonia refrigeration equipment? Answer: According to current codes and standards, the answer is a resounding YES!  IIAR 2 – Standard for Design of Safe Closed-Circuit Ammonia Refrigeration Systems General Accessibility ANSI/IIAR 2-2021 defers to the mechanical code requirements in reference to accessibility in […]