FAFCO hybrid ice storage - integration into the refrigeration system:

FAFCO hybrid ice banks are built in between the evaporator of the refrigeration machine and the cold-water network of the units to which refrigeration is supplied. They can be employed in all refrigeration systems which use a liquid as the energy-transfer medium. Depending on the nature of the discharge process, either one or two plate-type heat-exchangers are needed for cooling the water fed to the load.

For the charging operation, glycol brine at a temperature of -5 °C for example is produced in the evaporator of the refrigeration machine. During the flow through the heat-exchanger system in the ice bank, the surrounding water freezes to form a solid ice-block.

For discharging, the first stage, the glycol circuit, is activated by means of a discharge pump. The second stage, the ice-water circuit, is put into operation at the same time. This can take place via the load water pumps, in the case of direct discharge or via a separate ice-water pump, in the case of indirect discharge.

For the charging and discharging processes, the glycol/water circuit is switched over by means of flap valves. Simultaneous charging and discharging of the hybrid ice bank is also easily possible by an extension of the hydraulic system.

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