You’re probably familiar with the term “Ammonia”, but how does it come into play with refrigeration systems? Ammonia is a naturally occurring colorless gas that is a compound of nitrogen and hydrogen. When used in refrigeration systems, ammonia works to capture and transfer heat energy. Since ammonia is very effective at absorbing heat, it’s often used in industries with air-conditioning and refrigeration equipment.
Ammonia without hydrogen is a gas known as anhydrous ammonia. In this form, anhydrous ammonia is lighter than air and has a very pungent odor. Gaseous ammonia is also flammable and combustible. The Clean Air Act requires that companies storing over 10,000 pounds of anhydrous ammonia must submit a risk management plan. When handling anhydrous ammonia, be sure to wear protective gear like gloves, goggles and a face respirator or shield. In any state, ammonia is extremely soluble in water and moisture. Traces of ammonia can enter the human lungs, eyes, throat, and skin. This can cause irritation, burning, and sometimes lead to serious complications depending on the concentration of ammonia.
Now that you have a better understanding of ammonia itself, it’s time to learn more about how industrial refrigeration ammonia systems work. Although industrial refrigeration systems are much larger than household fridges, the basic function of refrigeration revolves around the liquid refrigerant ammonia. During the entire cycle of vapor compression, the refrigerant is constantly working to trap and release heat until the compressor reaches its preset temperature.