The cool revolution: Exploring ICE WATER solutions in chilled water production
In the realm of industrial cooling systems, the demand for efficient and sustainable solutions has never been higher. As industries strive to meet stringent environmental standards while maintaining optimal performance, innovative technologies like ICE WATER systems are emerging as key players in the field. This article delves into the technical intricacies of three cutting-edge products — Everest ICE BANK, RED System, and Falling Film Chillers — each designed to meet specific industrial needs while promoting sustainability.
Everest ICE BANK: Chilling water with precision
The Everest ICE BANK by FIC is a game-changer for those seeking precise chilled water production at +1°C through ice accumulation. This system shines when daily chilled water usage is limited or when a burst of heavy usage is required over a short period. The ice banks consist of an insulated tank with serpentines pipes heat-exchanger, available in galvanized or stainless steel. The tank, filled with water, is cooled down to the freezing point using refrigerants like freon, glycol, CO2 or ammonia. Ice sleeves grow on the serpentines, reaching a set thickness controlled by special controllers.
When the stored cold is needed, water flows into the tank, cooling down to the equilibrium temperature (+1°C) before being sent to users. The melting efficiency is enhanced by a unique air agitation system, ensuring rapid and controlled melting. The insulation minimizes thermal dispersions, and the system can be supplied with or without a refrigeration unit, with an accumulation capacity ranging from 38,000 kCal to over 2,000,000 kCal.
RED System: Continuous chilled water production
When continuous chilled water production is required for more than 10-12 hours a day, the RED System by FIC S.p.A. steps in as a robust solution. This insulated tank, available in galvanized or stainless steel, houses a heat exchanger with Pillow Plates, ensuring efficient heat transfer. The cooling medium (freon, glycol, ammonia, CO2) flows through the plates, cooling the water inside the tank continuously. An air agitation system optimizes heat transfer, making RED an open system, eliminating risks associated with ice formation.
FIC SPA offers two versions of RED: RED Compact, entirely in stainless steel, and RED Blu, with a remote cooling unit and a tank available in stainless or galvanized steel. The open system facilitates easy cleaning procedures, and both versions provide cost-effective and space-saving solutions.
Falling film chillers: Precision Cooling with Flexibility
The Falling Film Water Chiller by FIC offers a unique approach to water cooling, efficiently reaching temperatures as low as +0.5/+1°C. Constructed with materials like Aisi 304, Aisi 316, or SMO, these chillers utilize Pillow Plate batteries manufactured by FIC through automated laser welding. The design ensures optimum refrigerant distribution and homogeneous cooling.
Operating as an open system, Falling Film allows easy cleaning and inspection. With low refrigerant content leading to low Global Warming Potential (GWP), these chillers are tailored to meet diverse customer and industry needs. The compact design is crucial for industrial refrigeration engineers working on plant replacements or expansions.
Falling Film excels in a range of capacities, from 50/60 kW for smaller applications to 1,000 kW or more for industrial setups. Larger projects can utilize multiple modules, customizing the cooling capacity to match specific configurations.
Compatibility with new refrigerants: Embracing sustainability
All three ICE WATER solutions from FIC are designed to operate seamlessly with a variety of refrigerants, including HFC refrigerants, HCFC refrigerants, refrigerant blends, as well as brine. Falling Film, in particular, showcases its adaptability by operating with gravity systems, pump systems, or dx-expansion. Additionally, these systems are available for use with green refrigerants, such as R717 and R744, aligning with the global push for more sustainable industrial practices.
In conclusion, ICE WATER solutions are at the forefront of the cool revolution, providing efficient and sustainable alternatives for chilled water production. Whether through precise ice accumulation, continuous production, or falling film technology, these systems cater to diverse industrial needs while embracing the compatibility of new and environmentally friendly refrigerants. As industries continue to evolve, ICE WATER stands as a beacon of innovation, ensuring a cool and sustainable future.
