Boiling delay and pressure losses in industrial refrigeration systems
In refrigeration systems with pump circulation, high energy costs can arise due to pressure losses. Boiling delay in the return lines to the separator is particularly critical here – a phenomenon in which liquid refrigerant forms liquid columns in return lines due to geodetic height differences.
What happens technically?
In systems with a circulation factor of 3, 2 parts of the refrigerant flow back to the separator in liquid form. Part of it is gaseous. In rising pipes, liquid columns are formed whose static pressure raises the evaporation pressure of the refrigerant in the evaporator.
The result:
The actual evaporation temperature is higher than planned, the compressor must run at a lower suction pressure to compensate for this pressure loss. This consumes unnecessary electrical energy.
A calculation example with ammonia (R717):
A 5 m high column of liquid can raise the boiling point by approx. 6 K. In order to still achieve the desired cooling capacity, the compressor must operate 6 K lower.
COP loss of over 20 %.
The solution:
A boiling delay control that monitors the pressure difference between the evaporator outlet and the manifold
The liquid supply is regulated as required. This prevents a column of liquid from forming – and money being “burned” in the pipe.
Our tip:
Have your suction lines and refrigeration system checked!
Boiling delay can be avoided by targeted intervention in the refrigeration system – for maximum efficiency and minimum operating costs.
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Interested in improving the performance of your refrigeration systems and reducing pressure losses? Get in touch with us for a free consultation.