Technical Corner

May 1, 2025

Introduction

There was a time when the majority of ice sheet refrigeration systems were designed the same.  Typically, an ammonia/brine system with reciprocating compressors, flooded chillers and evaporative condensers. This consistent design simplified the delivery of the ORFA industry leading Basic Refrigeration course that leads to ORFA certification [More]. However, current innovation and technology options to perform the same "cycle of refrigeration" and the collection and ejection of heat has significantly expanded and consistency is a thing of the past. A recent industry article surrounding the selection of refrigerants raises some valid points to be considered as part of this selection and design process [More] and further, an ORFA resource on the topic will serve as good additional background information [More].

However, what was not discussed in the manufacturers article regarding the selection process is that all refrigerants present additional levels of risk which are driven by two (2) primary factors: 1. A lack of training of operators to safely handle or use the chemical and, 2. A lack of investment in proper maintenance of the refrigeration equipment. Rarely is the refrigerant the actual root cause of any refrigerant exposure incident. It is also important to understand that energy efficiency has a potential to reduce product lifecycle expectancy. To be energy efficient, equipment must often be constructed "lighter" to achieve the energy efficiency which may result in more maintenance or shorter operating life-span.

In Ontario, specific to ice arena refrigeration facilities, the movement to attach a refrigeration room as a separate to the facility has been slow. Having a standalone refrigeration room moves away from the classification of the area as being a Class -T plant room. If a refrigeration room is a standalone construction the requirement for sensors, ventilation and other safety equipment dissipates. While claims that a refrigerant is either "non-toxic" or "toxic" must be balanced with the fact that only an extreme exposure, much like the Fernie, BC event, can have such dramatic loss of life outcomes. Human safety is at risk when any refrigerant displaces oxygen, resulting in asphyxiation regardless of what the SDS states.

One of the most significant impacts to refrigerant selection during construction is a manufacturers pitch to often poorly informed selection committee members who fall victim to buzz words that trigger a selection reaction. "Environmentally friendly, reduced global warming impact, reduced ozone depletion" are all recognized discussion points in efforts to reduce environmental impacts from equipment and facilities, but can also result in purchases that can lead to buyers regret. In addition, purchasing innovative technology controls that has restricted access to software controls is a growing issue. The constantly evolving regulations regarding refrigerants and rapidly advancing equipment and technology controls require owners and managers to stay up to date with the available refrigerants and their properties. Selecting a refrigerant that limits on-site operators ability to perform basic maintenance must also be considered. Seeking third party confirmation of any manufacturers claims is crucial to making the right choice for each industrial refrigeration project.

As aged ice sheet facilities continues to be challenged, the ORFA will continue to monitor the industry as members take the leap toward new equipment and refrigerant options as these experiences will allow the industry to be better informed.