Cryogenic Refrigeration Systems
Cryogenic systems refers to very low temperatures by the use of liquid nitrogen and liquid carbon dioxide. It differs from mechanical refrigeration by spraying or pumping into the freezing cabinet or tank. The refrigerant vaporizes and discharges into the atmosphere. Freezing occurs instantly. This can be a problem for product because product can be cracked. Below are explanations of liquid refrigerants
Liquid Nitrogen- N₂
- Need to have a holding tank
- Storage tank size depends on plants processing rate and proximity to supplier
- Ranges can be from 900-12,000 gallons
- Piping is insulated with foam
Liquid Carbon Dioxide -CO₂
- Liquid starts converts into a solid/vapor mix aka snow
- Snow then converts into a vapor absorbing heat which is pulled from product
- Vapor is released into atmosphere
- Can hold 3,500-12,00 gallons
