Feb 26, 2010 11:25 AM

C&L Refrigeration announced the completion of an environmentally friendly, energy-efficient design/build industrial refrigeration system for a new 570,000-square-foot distribution center in Fontana CA.

For more than 30 years C&L has helped clients like Farmer John, Dreyer’s Grand Ice Cream, and General Mills with air-conditioning and industrial refrigeration needs and in meeting compliance standards.

This latest project has more than 140,000 square feet of 34°–36° F refrigerated area, which includes a main 136,000-sq-ft refrigerated warehouse space with numerous 30-feet high continuous aisles that are each 360 feet long. There is also approximately 149,000 square feet of 65° F conditioned area.

The refrigeration system uses ammonia refrigerant because of its sustainability and because it complements and supports environmentally friendly and organic products.

The refrigeration system also includes multiple energy-efficiency features such as variable frequency drives (VFDs) on the lead compressor and condenser fans, premium efficiency motors, floating head pressure based on ambient wet-bulb temperature, floating suction pressure controls, and high-efficiency air units that use minimum fan input power. Other energy efficiency measures include increased wall and roof insulation R values, and motor sensors for lighting controls.

“Everyone’s commitment to safety was evident throughout the refrigeration project, and many safety considerations were built-in,” said Jon Kwok, director of engineering at C&L. Locations of the air units minimize the risk of being hit. Stainless steel evaporators were used for longevity, and corrosion-resistant coating was applied on the refrigerant piping prior to insulation to minimize corrosion. A Quell fire suppression system that does not rely on in-rack components and anti-freeze was installed over conventional systems.

Visit C&L online at www.clrefrigeration.com.