Have you ever wondered how food is able to be preserved for so long before it is placed on the shelf of your local supermarket? After all, modern refrigeration techniques often occur behind the scenes. One amazing invention is ammonia refrigeration. How can this type of refrigeration help your company extend the lifespan of its products? What are some other benefits of these factory cooling systems? Let’s take a look at what goes on behind the scenes.
A Brief Look at the Process of Ammonia Refrigeration
Without delving into too much scientific jargon, ammonia is a great refrigerant due to its natural cooling properties. This substance will be pumped throughout a specific system (such as a line of walk in freezers). It will absorb heat from one area and transport it to another so that this heat can be removed. As ammonia (in its concentrated form) is much colder than room temperature, it makes perfect sense to be used as a refrigerant.
What are the Benefits of Ammonia Refrigeration?
One important point to mention is that many traditional food factory refrigeration systems use CFC as a cooling agent (a chemical known for its environmental hazards). The good news is that ammonia-based refrigerators are completely safe for the ozone and they do not contribute to global warming. Here are some other advantages:
- Ammonia-based factory cooling systems are up to 20 per cent cheaper to install and maintain when compared to traditional refrigerants.
- These cooling methods are extremely efficient. In fact, they can help reduce your energy costs by up to 10 per cent every year.
- As ammonia is an abundant substance, it does not cost much to recharge your system.
Ammonia is also an excellent choice in terms of food safety and hygiene. As it contains natural anti-microbial properties, it can help to address concerns such as the presence of germs and the risk of cross-contamination. After all, safety is important when storing any type of food.
Why Choose to Partner with Welch Refrigeration?
Food factory refrigeration techniques have come a long way in recent years. Systems which use ammonia are much more efficient than those used in the past. Ammonia will also help to protect the environment while lowering your costs over time. We are happy to supply a number of systems based around your needs including:
- Walk-in refrigerators
- Cold rooms
- Cellar cooling systems
- Units to display frozen food products
- Ice-making machines
We also provide 24/7 emergency services, as well as regular maintenance repairs in the event that an issue is discovered. If you are keen to learn more about our line of ammonia refrigeration products or to receive a free no-obligation quote, please get in touch with one of our representatives.
An air conditioning unit can play a pivotal role in our daily lives. Not only are these systems able to keep us cool and comfortable when the temperatures outside begin to rise, but modern commercial air conditioning units can help to filter out particulate matter from the air. These are important concerns for locations which accommodate a large number of people, such as offices and retail centres. However, even the most advanced air conditioning units will need to be serviced from time to time. This ensures that your system continues to function efficiently. Let us examine some of the advantages associated with air conditioning units, as well as how frequently repair and maintenance should take place.
Air Conditioning Unit: The Benefits to Businesses
A benefit of regular servicing is that your business will be able to dramatically reduce its monthly energy bills. These funds can then be channelled back into other areas of your organisation. Efficient air conditioning units will also help the environment while lowering your overall carbon footprint. Finally, the best way to correct a small issue before it evolves into a major problem is to schedule examinations on a regular basis. This approach will inevitably save you money on your air conditioning system in the long run.
Catering to the Needs of Clients
Customers and visitors will also benefit from a proactive approach. As mentioned earlier, a functional air conditioning unit will help to ensure better indoor air quality. Your visitors can therefore avoid issues such as allergies, sore throats and similar breathing difficulties. Improved air quality can also cut down on the presence of mould and bacteria. This is important to keep your environment clean and your clients and colleagues healthy.
Now that we have learned to appreciate why it is important to service air conditioning systems, it is a good idea to take a look at how often such appointments should be scheduled.
How Frequently is Maintenance Recommended?
This is a bit of a loaded question, as the frequency will partially depend upon how often the air conditioning unit is used. Systems subject to a higher workload (such as those which operate 12 hours or more every day) will require servicing on a regular basis. However, all experts recommend that a general examination should take place twice each year. It is best to schedule a professional consultation immediately before the summer season, as this tends to be when your air conditioning unit will be required to work the hardest.
Do you wish to schedule an appointment with one of our professionals? Or would you like to learn more about the additional air conditioning services that we have to offer? If so, please take a few moments to contact us. If you are able to adopt a proactive approach, you can avoid costly and frustrating problems in the future.
You want to look after the welfare of your workforce
As a responsible, caring employer you will want to provide a comfortable and productive working environment for your employees. Air conditioning puts you in control of the internal temperature of your premises and allows you to make adjustments quickly. This is a real bonus because it means that you can respond to the weather, particularly useful during cold snaps, warm spells and when the temperature deviates from seasonal norms. Being able to stabilize the temperature in the workplace is something your staff will appreciate. Air conditioning specialists such as Welch Refrigeration Services, will advise on the best air conditioning system for your business.
You are experiencing problems controlling the temperature, and your energy costs are rising
It is now commonplace to see air conditioning systems replacing more traditional forms of heating. Speaking to air conditioning specialists will help bring the benefits of bespoke air conditioning home to you. They will be able to design and install a system that is right for your premises. Efficient air conditioning can help reduce electricity charges, and with modern systems it is even possible to set different temperatures in different zones of the workplace.
Productivity is reducing as sick absences increase
No one wants to breathe stale air. Stale air can cause sluggishness and irritability. Humans generate heat from their bodies and odours. These build up in the working environment. Air conditioning will purify the air and filter out dust, debris, odours and pathogens which can be particularly harmful to people with respiratory problems. Once air conditioning specialists have installed your new system, you should see the incidence of coughs and colds amongst your employees fall.
Humidity levels in your workplace are out of control
The recommended level of humidity falls between 40 and 60% with 50% being the level preferred by most people. Humidity increases when the temperature outside is colder than the inside and may convince employees that it is actually warmer in the workplace than it is. Humidity causes mould and mildew and these can affect people with allergies or those suffering from asthma or other breathing problems. If humidity is too low, you might find your contact lens wearing staff experiencing problems with dry eyes and staff generally experiencing dry throats; air conditioning specialists can advise you on the health benefits of a good system.
Employees are making too much noise trying to keep cool/warn and are breaching health and safety
Without air conditioning in a workplace, temperature and humidity levels will fluctuate, and employees will come up with their own strategies to try and rectify matters. These can include plugging in portable fans and heaters which may not be PAT tested, are noisy, cause an obstruction and are probably contravening health and safety legislation. You also need to be aware that your IT system and in particular your servers will operate at maximum efficiency when the surrounding temperature and levels of humidity are as recommended by the manufacturer. Air conditioning specialists will be able to advise on suitable air conditioning for server rooms.
Contact us today about your Air Conditioning needs, our team will be happy to help!
A huge range of commercial sectors require refrigeration, such as the hospitality, retail, IT, and catering sectors.
This wide range of environments requires a wide range of refrigeration types. As well as being used for the fridge found in your kitchen, refrigeration also has a variety of applications found in different sectors.
Air Conditioning
Air conditioning is the most common form of refrigeration outside of food storage. It also works in the same way as your fridge does to keep food cold. As a basic law of physics, you cannot create or destroy energy; it can just be converted from one form into another. This is the fundamental way that refrigeration and air conditioning works. An AC unit will draw in warm air from the room, flowing over pipes circulating with coolant. The cooled air is then blasted through fans back into the room, gradually cooling it down.
Cold Rooms
Cold rooms, or walk in fridges, are essential in many restaurant and catering establishments where keeping a large supply of fresh food is needed. It is standard for cold rooms to be fitted with lockable doors for security, insulated panels for saving energy costs, and substantial shelving and lighting for ease of organisation and access.
Chilled and Frozen Display Units
Chilled display units have multiple uses for food and beverages. Prepared food such as sandwiches can be displayed, or the ingredients for making something can be on show for the customer, such as meat in a deli or ice cream in a parlour. They also have a use for drinks, such as a closed display unit showing the drinks on offer behind a bar, or an open display offering chilled drinks in a supermarket.
Ice Machines
Ice Machines provide an easy way of making ice for both front and back of house purposes. Different shapes and kinds of ice can be made with a good machine, whether you need cubes for drinks at a bar or a larger quantity for displaying fish.
Welch Refrigeration Services
Based in Ipswich, Suffolk, at Welch Refrigeration Services we specialise in offering this range of refrigeration services and more throughout the region and beyond. Our services can serve both commercial and industrial needs, with our experienced team able to meet your exact requirements. For more information on our commercial refrigeration services, give us a call on 01473 425495, email us at info@welchrefrigeration.co.uk, or fill out a contact form and we will get in touch.
For over a century, ammonia has been the most popular refrigerant used in industrial applications. It is highly effective, very predictable, and it has been extensively tested and improved. Nevertheless, like all innovations, industrial refrigeration in Ipswich and the surrounding areas faces new challenges.
One of the biggest, and the thing which is currently driving and shaping the industry, is sustainability. Many of the synthetic refrigerants (HFC, HFO, and CFC) are now being tightly restricted by new environment controls. While ammonia and hydrocarbons are not classified in the same way, these changes still affect their use and accessibility.
This guide to the current status of ammonia in industrial refrigeration will explore some of the trends creating innovation.
Modern Applications
Now that engineers are spending more time on sustainable technology, there is a greater interest in the recycling of energy. For instance, the popularity of high pressure ammonia heat pumps is on the rise. This is a big development, because the substance has long been limited by its incompatibility with elevated temperatures.
As increasingly sophisticated refrigeration components hit the market, ammonia applications are expanding too. Today, some food retailers in Ipswich rely on ammonia/CO2 systems for the smooth operation of their refrigerators. One challenge which is yet to be overcome is the broad application of smaller ammonia DX systems, but this is expected in the future.
Safety Objectives
It is worth noting that safety requirements are growing more stringent too. When it comes to ammonia, leak prevention is vital, as the substance is more flammable than HFC and HFO. It has a higher toxicity, so it is favourable to restrict the ammonia charge in the system. All components must be physically checked for leaks on a regular basis.
If possible, flanged, screwed, and other similar joints should be swapped for permanent types, as they have a higher leak potential. At the moment, the sticking point with ammonia is that, you can increase its safety, but it often requires the addition of CO2 cascade features. This often prevents the substance from operating efficiently at high temperatures.
High Pressure Demands
The need for refrigeration components which can handle high pressure conditions is definitely increasing. While the commercial demand for valves with PS 65 bar (designed for ammonia pumps) is somewhat limited, their application is expanded if they are considered in conjunction with the value of high pressure CO2 valves.
Components for 90 bar are useful in CO2 setups, because they ensure that the system pressure when inactive does not rise beyond the maximum working pressure. In simple terms, there would be no need for secondary cooling devices. Unfortunately, the industry is probably still quite a way from developing viable 90 bar components.
Cost Efficiency
Industrial refrigeration is currently benefiting from a renewed focus on system efficiency. For many businesses, this is taking the form of motorised valves and electronic controls, because automation and remote technologies are great cost cutters. When skilfully designed, motorised valves are able to provide fast, accurate responses.
This allows engineers and technicians to control flow, pressure, and temperature in real time. It means a lower risk of pressure fluctuations and compressor overloads. It also helps to reduce transient conditions. After installation, the motorised valves are configured and regulated to match system requirements.
To find out more about industrial refrigeration and ammonia heat pumps, click here to visit Welch Refrigeration. Or, call 01473 425 495 to speak to a technician and request a cost estimate for your business.
All around the world, businesses are very accustomed to the routines associated with air conditioning maintenance. However, in Britain, it is still common for workplaces not to have any kind of A/C system whatsoever. While it is true that we do not experience the same hot temperatures as parts of the United States, Europe, and Australia, air quality is still an important element of the office environment.
It is why the number of companies investing in commercial air conditioning is steadily increasing. As a result of global warming, temperatures are rising in the UK and so is its value. Employees work harder, faster, and at a higher degree of accuracy when their work environment is optimised. So, to ensure the best level of performance, you might want to consider investing in commercial air conditioning in Ipswich.
Keep reading for tips on how to shop for air conditioning and what impact it will have on your workforce.
Size and Form
There are three main types of commercial A/C system. They are single split, multi split, and VRF (also known as VRV). It is essential that you pick correctly, as the choice will determine how much energy you use, how much your system costs to run, and what kind of performance it provides. Single split units are the most affordable option.
However, they are generally only suited to small businesses like single-floor offices, shops, and cafes. They can be doubled (or even tripled) up, but there has to be space outside for each indoor device to have a corresponding outdoor one. Multi split air conditioning in Ipswich works in the same way, but more than one indoor device can be linked to the outside machine.
While multi-split systems are a little more complex, they have the advantage of being compatible with different types of indoor unit, so you can mix and match your cooling devices. Finally, variable refrigerant flow systems are the most sophisticated option and the best choice for larger premises. They can provide heating or cooling to any part of the building, and this makes them very valuable for broad, open spaces.
Future Capacity
One of the most common errors is to think only about current needs. While this is fine if you do not plan to grow in the near future, expanding will likely change the requirements of the work environment. Multi-split A/C systems lend themselves particularly well to upgrades, as different units and devices can be added to the system after installation.
Energy Efficiency
On the other hand, VRF systems are more energy efficient than multi-split ones. If you invest in specialist heat recovery technology, they have the ability to recapture waste heat from around the building and direct it to the areas which need more attention. It means that you can efficiently heat and cool different rooms at the same time. There are lots of energy efficient features available with commercial air conditioning these days, so it is worth shopping around for a green machine.
Routine Maintenance
Ideally, you want to work with a provider that can offer you support with maintenance and repairs. Some vendors charge a small monthly premium for instant access to repairs, routine inspections, and annual services. If you know that you will put a reasonable strain on the system by using it frequently, it is a good idea to consider the impact of air conditioning maintenance.
For more advice on selecting the right commercial air conditioning, click here to visit Welch Refrigeration. Or, call 01473 425 495 to speak to a representative and request a cost estimate for your business.
We’re used to thinking of refrigerators as the tools of the culinary industry. They are, of course, a big priority for any business which makes or sells food and drink. Yet, they’re also an essential asset for civil buildings like hospitals, schools, and administrative centres.
In fact, few workplaces can function smoothly without any kind of refrigeration at all. Even offices, warehouses, and manufacturing plants contain employees who need a way to keep their food cold throughout the day. So, commercial refrigeration is clearly an important resource and you should always choose your provider carefully.
This guide to shopping for commercial refrigeration will give you some advice and help you make the best possible decisions.
Dimensions
The most obvious place to start is with size. Clearly, not all businesses need commercial refrigeration with a huge capacity. However, if your needs are substantial, industrial sized units are available. It is worth taking the time to measure the space where you plan to install your refrigerator. It only takes a few minutes and it will help you avoid any mishaps with mismatched dimensions. Don’t forget to include a couple of inches on the back and each side for air flow.
Opaque Vs Glass Doors
Glass front refrigerators are a common sight in small cafes, kiosks, and newsagents. Generally, they invite customers to open up the unit and select their own items, which is why transparency is useful. If you aren’t planning to use your commercial refrigeration as a front of house merchandising tool, it is best to stick with an opaque unit. It is more energy efficient and there’s more flexibility when it comes to neatness.
Legs Vs Casters
For food businesses, casters are always the better option. They allow the unit to be wheeled away from the wall with minimum effort. This makes it easier to clean behind the refrigeration unit and maintain the optimum levels of hygiene. If this area is unlikely to get overly grimy, a unit with legs is perfectly suitable. Many of the larger systems will have legs because they’re not designed to be moved apart from during installation and removal.
Shelves Vs Drawers
In domestic refrigerators, there tends to be a clear preference for either deep drawers or shelves and racking. Many units contain both, but you’ll still need to decide what type of configuration is best for your business. The larger the refrigerator, the more space you’ll get, and the more room there will be for both drawers and shelves. However, do think about what you’ll be storing – whether there are more bottles than food packages, for instance – and then make your decision accordingly.
Added Extras
Ultimately, the commercial refrigeration industry is quite a diverse place. You can get your hands on units of all shapes and sizes, particularly if you work with an experienced provider. For example, there are special ‘roll in’ units which are much larger and tend to be used by companies which produce large amounts of food, on an hourly basis. You can also invest in compact under counter refrigerators, which are great for maximising space in small workplaces.
For information and advice on shopping for commercial refrigeration, visit Welch Refrigeration today. Or, call 01473 425 495 to speak to a representative and request a quote for your business.
In November, a very special event within the marine industry calendar took place. It was the annual Trinity House Awards Ceremony, which is held each year in Central London. The event is designed to support and celebrate the many organisations with which Trinity House collaborates.
The maritime charity is the largest of its kind in the UK and it works with a broad range of vendors, suppliers, sponsors, and manufacturers. Suffolk based company Welch Refrigeration is a long-time collaborator and it was handed an award for ‘Exceptionally Efficient Service’ at the recent ceremony.
Welch Refrigeration is a vendor of high-quality marine refrigeration and air conditioning equipment. It is a family run operation, which also provides repairs, installations, and scheduled maintenance services. It has worked closely with Trinity House for a number of years and its commitment to marine excellence was praised at the November ceremony.
In 2015, the Trinity House charity marked its 500th birthday with a series of special events. This is a remarkable achievement and a staggering history, which has always been founded upon strong links with contractors and suppliers. So, to be publically praised as a key strategic partner is something that makes Welch Refrigeration very proud.
The company shares many values with Trinity House. It prides itself on being able to give back to the community and support the marine industry with apprenticeships and training. It runs an active apprenticeship scheme, which helps aspiring marine engineers to gain the experience that they need and secure a top job.
Welch Refrigeration were recently featured in a case study by one of our suppliers Climalife, the article titled ‘Dispersant D and Desoxydant P used “in transit” to clean A/C system on board a dive support vessel’ can be found here.
For commercial vessels and industrial tankers, comfort is key. While industrial ships might not have the same needs as commercial liners and cruise ships, the underlying objective is the same. The people on board must be provided with all of the things that they need to stay safe and happy. This includes reliable refrigeration and the capacity to store food.
On the surface, the requirement is a simple one. Thousands of high quality marine refrigeration units are installed every year. This is only possible, however, with the help and support of skilled technicians. Adding refrigeration features to an already complex commercial vessel is no easy feat, but there are plenty of ways to make sure that the process runs smoothly.
This guide to the basics of marine refrigeration in Suffolk will help you extend the life of your unit and keep passengers safe and comfortable.
Purchase and Installation
The first step is choosing marine refrigeration in Suffolk that matches your needs. While most commercial vessels do require quite a large setup, not all boats are built the same. Some are significantly bigger than others and have more intensive requirements. If you purchase a refrigeration system that is overly large, you’ll only end up putting an unnecessary degree of strain on the engine. Refrigerators pull power pretty much constantly, so you need to find a suitable match between the unit and your vessel.
The marine refrigerator needs to be installed in a way that provides good airflow across the condenser. This airflow should be in the region of 70-90 degrees Fahrenheit. If it is much warmer or colder than this, the condenser will have to work harder. Also, a high quality installation will ensure that heated air doesn’t just pass over the unit again and again; it will provide proper circulation and support the condenser to run efficiently.
Everyday Operation
One of the most commonly overlooked factors about all refrigeration units – both domestic and commercial – is that they run most efficiently when kept full. This is another reason why it is important to select the right size. Conversely, marine refrigeration units should never be over packed, because this risks breakdown and failure. Generally speaking, the optimum temperature for the inside of a refrigerator is around 73 degrees Fahrenheit.
On a regular basis, the door gasket needs to be cleaned with a mild soap and water solution. It will wear much faster than the gasket on a domestic fridge, so a replacement is required when the current seal begins to wear and degrade. Don’t forget to dust off the condenser as it stifles the refrigeration components and makes the unit work harder for the same results.
Finding a Reliable Installer
If you’re looking for high quality marine refrigeration in Suffolk, start by sourcing word of mouth feedback from other boat owners and managers in your local community. They are the ones who will know which companies have the best rates and provide the finest service. You can also search online for local suppliers, but it is best to call companies directly if you want a cost estimate or you want to discuss your needs in detail.
For more information and advice on finding the right marine refrigeration installer. Call 01473 425 495 to speak directly to a representative and request a cost estimate for your vessel or marine operation.
