Ammonia in Refrigeration Systems

Posted by Rhys Redrup

Introduction

Whether you are a business owner looking to upgrade your cooling systems, simply curious about ammonia or looking to purchase an ammonia gas detector, this guide will provide you with a valuable insight into the world of ammonia refrigeration.

What’s that smell?

Ammonia is a colourless, reactive gas that is about half as heavy as air and easily dissolves in water. It has a strong odour reminiscent of urine, which can be detected even in small quantities by most people. Although ammonia gas itself is non-flammable, it is considered flammable because it can explode when mixed with air at certain concentrations and ignited.

Ammonia in Refrigeration Systems

Ammonia refrigeration is a widely used and effective technology for cooling and preservation across various industries. This system employs ammonia as a refrigerant to absorb heat from specific spaces or products and then dissipate it into the environment.

The concept of ammonia refrigeration dates back to the 19th century, with its widespread adoption occurring in the early 20th century. Over the years, the technology has advanced considerably, making ammonia refrigeration systems more efficient, safer, and environmentally friendly.

Today, ammonia refrigeration is extensively utilised in sectors such as food processing, cold storage, and chemical manufacturing due to its high efficiency, cost-effectiveness, and eco-friendliness. With the growing demand for sustainable and energy-efficient cooling solutions, ammonia refrigeration is increasingly becoming the preferred choice for many businesses.

How Does Ammonia Refrigeration Work?

Ammonia refrigeration leverages the thermodynamic properties of ammonia to transfer heat from a designated area or product to the environment. This process involves several key components that work together to complete the refrigeration cycle.

Ammonia, a natural refrigerant, has excellent thermodynamic characteristics, such as a high latent heat of vaporisation and a low boiling point. The refrigeration process begins with the evaporation of liquid ammonia, which absorbs heat from the target space or product. The resulting gaseous ammonia is then compressed, raising its temperature and pressure, and moved to the condenser, where it cools and condenses back into a liquid. The liquid ammonia is subsequently expanded through an expansion valve, lowering its temperature and pressure, and the cycle restarts.

The Dangers of Ammonia

Ammonia, despite its many uses, can be dangerous to work with if proper precautions aren’t taken. Here’s a breakdown of the key dangers associated with exposure:

Ammonia poses significant hazards to human health, as it is corrosive to the skin, eyes, and respiratory system. Exposure to concentrations of 300 parts per million (ppm) is immediately dangerous to life and health. Ammonia is flammable when present in air at concentrations ranging from approximately 15% to 28% by volume. Accidental releases of ammonia can have severe consequences for both workers and the general public.

When ammonia is stored under pressure, the risk of exposure increases dramatically, as larger quantities can be released rapidly into the atmosphere. Due to its high toxicity, stringent safety measures are essential during the handling, filling, and maintenance of ammonia systems, necessitating the involvement of trained engineers.

Inhalation of ammonia at concentrations of 300 ppm (0.03%) is life-threatening and poses an extreme health hazard, with lethality occurring at levels above 500 ppm. Even at much lower concentrations, an average healthy individual can detect the distinct odour of ammonia, typically at levels of 17 to 20 ppm.

What we Recommend

Blackline G7 Multi-Gas Detector

The G7 Portable Gas Detector uses cutting-edge sensors to detect a wide array of toxic and flammable gases, including ammonia.

Its advanced built-in comms and rapid response allow for real-time monitoring, which allows swift action in the event of leaks.

To find out more, visit our product page.

Drager PAC 8000 Gas Detector

The Dräger PAC 8000 is a great choice for individuals who require unwavering safety in tough environments.

This non-disposable, single-gas monitor boasts exceptional reliability and precision, singularly detecting hazardous concentrations of a diverse range of gases, including carbon dioxide and ammonia.

To find out more, visit our product page.

Honeywell BW Solo Gas Detector

The Honeywell BW Solo single gas detector is a portable, single-gas detector designed to keep workers safe in hazardous environments. It offers a unique combination of user-friendly operation, reliable performance, and easy maintenance, making it a valuable tool for a variety of industries.

To find out more, visit our product page.