Installation Instruction

Evaporators Ammonia

Type Series:
TAN/TADN/TAFN/TAFM
TADS/TAA/TAS/TAP

thermofin GmbH, Am Windrad 1, 08468 Heinsdorfergrund Phone: +49 (0)3765-3800-0

Evaporators Ammonia, state: 2010-04-08 thermofin GmbH

1. Preliminary Notes...................................................................................................3
1.1 Fundamentals ............................................................................................................................... 3
1.2 Range of application .................................................................................................................... 3
1.3 Applied standards and directives ................................................................................................. 4

2. Technical Data ........................................................................................................5

2.1 Method of operation..................................................................................................................... 5
2.2 Application and intended use....................................................................................................... 5
2.3 Material data ................................................................................................................................ 5
2.4 Noise information ........................................................................................................................ 5
2.5 Unit key........................................................................................................................................ 6
2.6 Data on the type plate .................................................................................................................. 7

3. Safety .......................................................................................................................8
3.1 General information on device safety .......................................................................................... 8
3.2 Safety instructions for the site of operation ................................................................................. 8
3.3 Safety instructions for the machine.............................................................................................. 9
3.4 Safety instructions for the operating supplies ............................................................................ 10
3.5 Safety instructions for the fans................................................................................................... 11

4. Assembly, Installation, Commissioning and Maintenance...............................12

4.1 General ....................................................................................................................................... 12
4.2 Transport and positioning .......................................................................................................... 12
4.2.1 Packing.................................................................................................................................... 14
4.3 Assembly Instructions................................................................................................................ 15
4.3.1 Installation............................................................................................................................... 15
4.3.2 Pipe connections ..................................................................................................................... 16
4.3.2.1 Defrost water drain............................................................................................................... 16
4.3.3 Electrical connections ............................................................................................................. 17
4.3.4 Start of operation..................................................................................................................... 18
4.3.4.1 Return to service after a longer period of standstill ............................................................. 18
4.4 Maintenance and hygiene........................................................................................................... 19
4.4.1 Cleaning of the fins ................................................................................................................. 19
4.4.2 Cleaning of the housings......................................................................................................... 20
4.4.3 Testing of the fans................................................................................................................... 20
4.4.4 Electrical switching and control devices................................................................................. 20
4.5 Defrosting................................................................................................................................... 21
4.5.1 Recommendations for the positioning of the defrost sensor................................................... 22
4.5.2 Further notes regarding the defrosting process ....................................................................... 22

5. Operation and shutdown .....................................................................................23

5.1 Normal operation ....................................................................................................................... 23
5.2 Shutdown ................................................................................................................................... 23

6. Spare parts ............................................................................................................23

thermofin GmbH, Am Windrad 1, 08468 Heinsdorfergrund Phone: +49 (0)3765-3800-0

Evaporators Ammonia, state: 2010-04-08 thermofin GmbH

page 2 of 23

1. Preliminary Notes
The purpose of assembly and operating manuals is to prevent dangers to persons and to the
environment, which may be caused by a machine and by the work performed in connection with
the machine, particularly during transport, assembly, commissioning and operation of the
machine.
Therefore, all points of this manual must be carefully read and observed.

1.1 Fundamentals
The present assembly and operating manual refers to the heat exchanger coils of the following
type series:
TAN / TADN / TAFN / TAFM / TADS / TAA / TAS / TAP
- with or without defrosting device
- and to units with switching and control components installed wired or unwired - or with
deviations from the standard (X-).
The corresponding technical data can be seen from the current catalogue, the machine data sheet
and the type plate.
For the fan motors and controllers, the data given on their identification plates primarily apply.

1.2 Range of application

Evaporators are absorbing the heat which accumulates in refrigeration rooms and lead the heat to
the outside via the refrigerant pipe system.
thermofin evaporators with steel or stainless steel piping are by default suitable for the use with
refrigerants of the fluid group 1 or 2 according to EU directive 97 / 23 / EC (Pressure Equipment
Directive), whose pressure level does not exceed the specified maximum pressure under normal
service conditions.

thermofin GmbH, Am Windrad 1, 08468 Heinsdorfergrund Phone: +49 (0)3765-3800-0

Evaporators Ammonia, state: 2010-04-08 thermofin GmbH

page 3 of 23

1.3 Applied standards and directives

EU directive 97 / 23 / EC for pressure equipment (Pressure Equipment Directive)

EU directive 2006 / 42 / EC for machinery (Machinery Directive)
EN 378; parts 1 to 4; "Refrigeration systems and heat pumps, safety and environmental
requirements"; state: June 2008
German Equipment and Product Safety Act (GPSG); including the regulations (GPSGV)
applicable in the Federal Republic of Germany
BGR 500 (directive of the employers liability insurance association) "Operation of Work
Equipment"; chapt. "Operation of refrigeration systems, heat pumps and cooling
equipment"; applicable in the Federal Republic of Germany
VDMA (German Federation of Machinery and Plant Construction) norm 24243 (08/2005)
Refrigerating machines and plants, tightness of refrigeration systems and heat pumps,
leak detection and leak test
The present operating manual thermofin evaporators
The labels attached to the machine, which contain instructions and information of the
manufacturer

The operator is obliged to observe in addition to the regulations stated in this operating manual
all possible local particularities and / or applicable regulations.

thermofin GmbH, Am Windrad 1, 08468 Heinsdorfergrund Phone: +49 (0)3765-3800-0

Evaporators Ammonia, state: 2010-04-08 thermofin GmbH

page 4 of 23

2. Technical Data
2.1 Method of operation
A fan-ventilated evaporator forms part of a refrigeration cycle, in which liquid refrigerants are
evaporated and overheated under the absorption of the ambient heat.
The working fluid, which is injected from the expansion tank and which circulates inside the
refrigeration cycle (refrigerants, see DIN EN 378-1, para. 3.7.1), reaches the evaporator in liquid
and overcooled condition and is evaporated and overheated via the pipe- and lamella system under
the absorption of heat from the environment. After that, it is extracted by suction by means of the
compressor.
The used refrigerants are assigned to the fluid group 1 or 2 according to EU directive 97 / 23 / EG
(Pressure Equipment Directive).

2.2 Application and intended use

The heat exchanger is intended for the application in refrigeration systems according to DIN EN
378. Despite meeting the requirements of intended use and handling the machine properly,
residual risks cannot be completely avoided.
The machine may only be used in places where the materials applied are not affected by the
surrounding atmosphere or the medium flowing inside.
Any cases of application differing from the one described above require consultation with the
manufacturer.
The manufacturer does not assume liability for any damages resulting from the non-compliance
with these provisions.
The unit may not be put into operation until the conformity of the complete plant has been declared!

2.3 Material data

pipes: made of steel or stainless steel, welded
fins: made from AlMg3, aluminium, aluminium coated with epoxy resin, steel,
stainless steel or copper
housing: made of AlMg3, galvanized steel or stainless steel

2.4 Noise information

The sound pressure stated was determined by calculation on the basis of the enveloping surface
method according to DIN EN13487 at a defined distance of 10m.

thermofin GmbH, Am Windrad 1, 08468 Heinsdorfergrund Phone: +49 (0)3765-3800-0

Evaporators Ammonia, state: 2010-04-08 thermofin GmbH

page 5 of 23

2.5 Unit key

thermofin GmbH, Am Windrad 1, 08468 Heinsdorfergrund Phone: +49 (0)3765-3800-0

Evaporators Ammonia, state: 2010-04-08 thermofin GmbH

page 6 of 23

2.6 Data on the type plate

The type plate contains the following data:

model description according to the unit key (see 2.5 Unit key)
article number of the manufacturer
project or serial number
month / year of manufacture
tube volume of the heat exchanger
empty weight of the machine
test overpressure PT
maximum working pressure PS
allowed temperature range of the medium TS
allowed temperature range of the fan
pressure test medium of the heat exchanger
connected loads of the fans

thermofin GmbH, Am Windrad 1, 08468 Heinsdorfergrund Phone: +49 (0)3765-3800-0

Evaporators Ammonia, state: 2010-04-08 thermofin GmbH

page 7 of 23

3. Safety
3.1 General information on device safety
The unit is state-of-the-art and reliable in operation. The machine may only be used in accordance
with the specifications in the catalogue and the data given on the type plate. The unit may only be
installed, commissioned and maintained by competent personnel. For installing the system, the
installation conditions according to standard DIN EN 378 are to be observed. Furthermore, the
applicable national rules and regulations, such as the water resources law, accident prevention
regulations etc. are to be complied with. The company installing the system has to ensure the
observance of all pressure and temperature limit values given on the type plate.
Compliance with the instructions of this operating manual does not release the plant
operator from the obligation to install an appropriate warning system indicating each kind
of malfunction immediately. In addition, emergency measures must be planned and
prepared in order to prevent consequential damages in case of malfunctions.

3.2 Safety instructions for the site of operation

The erection and installation conditions according to DIN EN 378 are to be observed.
Pipes and fittings must be protected against misuse. Emergency facilities, such as lighting,
venting, escape routes and the marking of which according to DIN EN 378 must be
provided.
The machine must be lockable in case of leakage. Devices which are used for the discharge
of released refrigerants must be operable from a safe location.
Refrigerant detectors and alarm systems which warn of hazardous concentrations have to
comply with the assembly conditions of the DIN EN 378-3, chapt. 7 and 8.
No smoking at the installation site. Open fire is prohibited.
The fire extinguishing equipment must meet the requirements of DIN EN 378-3.
There must be sufficient free space around the machine in order to prevent dangers to the
machine and its connections and to ensure smooth execution of maintenance and repair
work on the machine as well as on all fittings and components. In particular, it must be
possible to completely extricate potentially existent heater rods.

thermofin GmbH, Am Windrad 1, 08468 Heinsdorfergrund Phone: +49 (0)3765-3800-0

Evaporators Ammonia, state: 2010-04-08 thermofin GmbH

page 8 of 23

3.3 Safety instructions for the machine

Before performing installation, repair and maintenance works, the power supply must be
interrupted at all circuits. An unauthorized and / or unintentional (automatic) restart must
be prevented. Zero potential must be checked and - if applicable - ensured by the means of
earthing or short circuiting. Adjacent energized parts need to be covered.
Do not touch the fin edges risk of cuts!
Beware of hot gas lines and electrical heater rods risk of burns!
Any unauthorized reconstructions or modifications affecting the functions or the safety of
the heat exchanger are prohibited!
Any external forces acting on the equipment are to be avoided. In particular, equipment
connections and manifolds may not be stressed (e.g. do not step on them).
Never use connections, sheet metal parts or additions (fans) as a means to lift the machine.
It is not allowed to push objects through the safety guard of the fan or to put them in the
circle of rotation of the fan blades.
Before performing welding and soldering work, the machine must be depressurized!
In the event that refrigerants escape, use your personal protective equipment. Avoid any
contact with the refrigerant; liquid refrigerants cause severe frostbite. In case of eye
contact, seek medical advice immediately!
Beware of the lateral inspection openings or slewable fans! Before opening the covers,
the fans must be turned off and restart must be prevented!

thermofin GmbH, Am Windrad 1, 08468 Heinsdorfergrund Phone: +49 (0)3765-3800-0

Evaporators Ammonia, state: 2010-04-08 thermofin GmbH

page 9 of 23

3.4 Safety instructions for the operating supplies

The utilized refrigerant ammonia (NH3) corresponds to the fluid group 1 according to DGRL
(Pressure Equipment Directive) 97 / 23 EG or B2 according to DIN EN 378-1: 2008 and requires
particular safety measures.
NH3 is a toxic, pungent smelling gas. A health risk, though, only arises well above the odour
threshold (warning effect of NH3). Although NH3 is inflammable as well as explosive, the danger
of fire and explosion is relatively low due to the high ignition temperature, the narrow flammable
range and the high affinity to humidity.
NH3 causes agitation, dizziness, vomitus and spasms; with strong concentrations it also
causes suffocation and pulmonary oedemas.
NH3 has perilous to lethal effects from a concentration of 0.2 vol%.
NH3 has a strongly corrosive effect, especially on eyes and mucous membranes. If NH3
reaches the eyes, those effects cannot be stopped disorientation.
Inhaled NH3 causes an interruption of the respiratory airflow panic.
NH3-fluid on the skin causes frostbite and chemical burns.
NH3 is very toxic to aquatic organisms and may under no circumstances enter drainage
systems!
In case of leakages on the evaporator, it has to be locked and the emergency stop switch
has to be pressed, provided that this is possible without causing dangers. During the
elimination of the malfunction, attention has to be paid to residual NH3 under boiling
retardation.
NH3-gas may not enter into neighbouring rooms, corridors or staircases.
Repair work is to be carried out on completely emptied plant components or segments
only. Ensure proper ventilation. In case of works or sojourns in areas with high
concentrations, use a respirator which is working independently of the ambient air!
The exposure to NH3 requires the strict observation of the regulations and standards with regard to
occupational safety. Particularly, measures according to the own safety have to be taken. This
includes the wearing of safety equipment for the body according to the situation:
safety gloves
eye protection
respiratory protection (independent of ambient air)
personal protective equipment
Further and more detailed information and direction for use and first aid as well as provisions
resulting therefrom are to be found in the corresponding safety data sheet.
thermofin GmbH, Am Windrad 1, 08468 Heinsdorfergrund Phone: +49 (0)3765-3800-0
Evaporators Ammonia, state: 2010-04-08 thermofin GmbH

page 10 of 23

3.5 Safety instructions for the fans

Before performing any work on the fans and the motors including cleaning work between
the fans and the heat exchanger block (inspection covers!), cut off power supply and
prevent restarting!
According to DIN EN 60204-1, the machines must have a switch-off device in order to
prevent unintentional restarting. It must be possible to secure this switch-off device while
the system is de-energized (turned off)!
Observe the data given on the motor type plates!
After the completion of repair and maintenance work, all objects must be removed from
the area around the fans, since such objects may cause malfunctions or damages of the fan
and the heat exchanger after switching-on the system.
After the dismounting of fans and their reassembly please check for freewheeling.

thermofin GmbH, Am Windrad 1, 08468 Heinsdorfergrund Phone: +49 (0)3765-3800-0

Evaporators Ammonia, state: 2010-04-08 thermofin GmbH

page 11 of 23

4. Assembly, Installation, Commissioning and Maintenance

4.1 General
The unit may only be installed, integrated in a refrigeration system, operated, maintained and
repaired by qualified personnel of specialist companies according to the definitions of expertise
from DIN EN 378.
During production and before delivery, each machine is subjected to comprehensive
quality testing. The machine is provided in good order and condition. Before assembly, the
good order and condition of the machine (damages in transit) must be verified.

4.2 Transport and positioning

During transport, the machine must be handled with special care. In particular, always
place the unit very carefully on the ground!
When transporting the equipment by crane, the lifting instructions which are possibly attached to
the machine are to be observed. Furthermore, the appropriate lifting accessories must be used. The
sheet metal components of the housings may not be deformed by the belts. If it is not possible to
ensure sufficient rope length (angle to the perpendicular of max. 30), a traverse must be used.
The lifting accessories may only be attached to the suspension points intended for this purpose.
Never use pipes or attachment parts for lifting.

The factory-provided transport weight

(empty weight of the unit + transport packaging)
is to be found on the corresponding label
affixed to the transport packaging.

In case of using floor-borne vehicles is has to be paid heed to sufficient length of the load
arms. Please pay attention to the position of the centre of gravity as well as to the
information signs!

thermofin GmbH, Am Windrad 1, 08468 Heinsdorfergrund Phone: +49 (0)3765-3800-0

Evaporators Ammonia, state: 2010-04-08 thermofin GmbH

page 12 of 23

If the equipment or the packages are provided with further instruction labels for transport and
storage, these labels must be followed!

thermofin GmbH, Am Windrad 1, 08468 Heinsdorfergrund Phone: +49 (0)3765-3800-0

Evaporators Ammonia, state: 2010-04-08 thermofin GmbH

page 13 of 23

4.2.1 Packing
Decisive factors for packing are the route of transport, the size of the equipment and the
regulations applicable in the country of importation.
The pallets, crates and export boxes used for thermofin machines meet the requirements of the
HPE and VDM standards (HPE German Federal Association for Wooden Packages, Pallets and
Export Packaging; VDM Association of the German Furniture Industries). If required they can
be tailored to the standards of ISPM 15.
thermofin transport packages are made of environmental friendly materials and they are suitable
for recycling.
According to the German regulation on packaging, we are prepared to take back our packages if
they are returned to us, delivered free to our location in Heinsdorfergrund.
Usually, thermofin units are delivered in completely assembled condition.
If a machine is delivered with loose parts due to transport or other reasons, those parts are to be
assembled on site according to the enclosed order-specific drawings.
Loading on road vehicles is performed in accordance with the VDI guideline 2700 "Securing of
loads on road vehicles".
In case of groupage traffic, responsibility lies with the forwarder.

thermofin GmbH, Am Windrad 1, 08468 Heinsdorfergrund Phone: +49 (0)3765-3800-0

Evaporators Ammonia, state: 2010-04-08 thermofin GmbH

page 14 of 23

4.3 Assembly Instructions

4.3.1 Installation
The suitability and the load bearing capacity of the foundations, brackets, machine frames etc.
provided by the customer are not the responsibility of the equipment manufacturer.
It has to be ensured that the machine rests evenly on all contact points. It must be fixed on the
supporting structure by using appropriate fasteners. For the bearing capacity of the construction
provided by the customer, as well as for the dimensioning of the used screws, thread rods and the
like, besides the empty weight printed onto the type plate and the quantity of the hangings, the
filling weight and the possibility of icing has to be taken into account as well.
Formula for the calculation of the suspension force:
(empty weight of machine + filling weight + additional
F max = weight)
x safety factor
quantity of hangings
The heat exchanger has to be fastened in such a way that it is not damaged or affected in its
functionality due to environmental dangers (production processes, transportation processes, other
technical devices in close proximity etc.). Switches and shut-off devices have to be secured
against unauthorised operation.
After installation and before commissioning, all existing package parts and transport protection
devices must be removed.

thermofin GmbH, Am Windrad 1, 08468 Heinsdorfergrund Phone: +49 (0)3765-3800-0

Evaporators Ammonia, state: 2010-04-08 thermofin GmbH

page 15 of 23

4.3.2 Pipe connections

The machines are delivered with an overpressure of approx. 1 bar (cleaned and dried air).
(according to the directive for the transport of hazardous goods ADR 1.1.3.2 c)
Before removing the closing caps it must be verified that the overpressure is present.
A depressurized device indicates a leakage (Damage in transit! Leak test!)
In case of depressurized devices, the manufacturer must be consulted immediately.
Before the assembly, the transport pressure must be released and the closing caps must
be removed.

Pipe connections are to be designed in such a way that any force, stress and vibration
effects on the machine are prevented.

The inlet

and outlet

must be observed according to the marking.

Refrigerant distributors must be arranged vertically. The capillary tubes of the distributor
are not to be shortened.

4.3.2.1 Defrost water drain

According to the machine type, the design of the defrost water drain can vary.
Screwed discharge nozzles made from plastic are only to be tightened by hand! Do not use
pliers!
Pay attention to sufficient slope (at least 5%) in freezer rooms, provide for trace heating. Do not
arrange siphons inside freezer rooms.

thermofin GmbH, Am Windrad 1, 08468 Heinsdorfergrund Phone: +49 (0)3765-3800-0

Evaporators Ammonia, state: 2010-04-08 thermofin GmbH

page 16 of 23

4.3.3 Electrical connections

The electrical connection of the fans, defrost heating and the electrical accessories,
if existent, must be performed in accordance with the applicable regulations of DIN VDE
0100, DIN EN 60204 part 1, DIN EN 378-3, section 6, and the provisions of the local
energy supply company.
The electrical installation may only be carried out by qualified personnel.
The local regulations must be observed.
The data given on the respective identification labels are binding.
Wiring may only be performed in accordance with the circuit and wiring diagrams
provided.
The existing strain-relief devices must always be used.
The direction of rotation of the fans must be observed.
The thermal motor protection is either already integrated in the electrical feed line of the
fans or has to be integrated in the electrical control system by the company installing the
machine (see wiring diagram of the fans).
A suitable all-pole circuit breaker must be installed in the system.
Please note that in case of an installation in cold spaces humidity can condense out, which
can lead to an accumulation of dripping water inside the socket as well.
For the installation of the unit or subsequent installations assurecompliance with the degree
of protection.

thermofin GmbH, Am Windrad 1, 08468 Heinsdorfergrund Phone: +49 (0)3765-3800-0

Evaporators Ammonia, state: 2010-04-08 thermofin GmbH

page 17 of 23

4.3.4 Start of operation

Before starting operation, the systems readiness for operation must be verified according to the
following points:
1. Has the machine been properly installed and fixed in accordance with the instructions of
the present manual?
2. Have all fluid-carrying lines been connected and checked for tightness? Are the shut-off
devices open?
3. Is the flow direction correct?
4. Are all cables properly installed and completely connected? Has cabling been done
according to the wiring diagrams provided?
5. Has the fuse protection been checked for proper functioning?
6. Have all bolted connections (e.g. fans, cable entries), fastenings, electrical connections etc.
been checked for tight fit?
7. Are all terminal boxes and cable entries firmly closed and tight?
During start of operation the following measures have to be taken:
1. Check and, if necessary, adjust the direction of rotation of the fans.
2. Measure the current consumption of the fans and check for compliance with the type
plate data.
3. Adjust the electrical switching and control devices and check for correct functioning
(see the specific operating instructions of the respective control device).
4. Check the switch point settings of the safety equipment.

4.3.4.1 Return to service after a longer period of standstill

If the machine is intended to be put into operation again after being shutdown and standing still
for a longer period of time, the following points must checked in addition to those mentioned
under 4.3.4 Start of operation:
1. visual inspection of the heat exchanger block; check for fouling and damages
2. leak test of the heat exchanger block
3. visual inspection and functional test of the fans; check for free running, check the terminal
boxes for tightness, check for corrosion and noise (bearings)
4. check all pipe connections (including pipe clips), electrical components, housings and
attachment parts for tight fit

thermofin GmbH, Am Windrad 1, 08468 Heinsdorfergrund Phone: +49 (0)3765-3800-0

Evaporators Ammonia, state: 2010-04-08 thermofin GmbH

page 18 of 23

4.4 Maintenance and hygiene

The manufacturer recommends performing particular maintenance works at regular intervals.
The form and frequency of the measures strongly depend on the respective installation site of the
heat exchanger.

4.4.1 Cleaning of the fins

Depending on the installation site and the mode of operation, the heat exchanger fins are subject to
fouling (varying degree). As this directly affects the hygiene of the freezing room and the
performance of the machine, the cleanliness of the fin coil must always be ensured.
Dry cleaning: with a broom or a soft brush from the outside towards the fins or from the inside
towards the outside by using compressed air opposite to the direction of the air flow of the fans.
Switch off the machine (regarding refrigeration and electricity)!

Wet cleaning: with a water jet from the inside towards

The outside and opposite to the direction of the air flow
of the fans fans; and from top to bottom. The jet of the
cleaning device must be vertical to the heat exchanger
block (max. deviation 5), in order to prevent fin
deformations.
Switch off the machine (regarding refrigeration
and electricity)!
Electrical components may not be exposed to
the water jet!

When using cleaning agents, the compatibility of materials must be ensured. Never use
aggressive or corrosive cleaning agents! In case of doubt, consult the manufacturer.
Mechanical cleaning with hard objects, such as steel brushes or screwdrivers may destroy
the heat exchanger, therefore it is not permitted.

thermofin GmbH, Am Windrad 1, 08468 Heinsdorfergrund Phone: +49 (0)3765-3800-0

Evaporators Ammonia, state: 2010-04-08 thermofin GmbH

page 19 of 23

4.4.2 Cleaning of the housings

thermofin heat exchanger housings have smooth surfaces which are equipped with a hygienic,
corrosion-resistant powder coating which makes the cleaning of the devices very easy.
The devices should be cleaned with water or a mild soap sud.
Under no circumstances use sharp-edged tools or scrapers!
Potentially existing dust filters are removable and can be cleaned by means of a vacuum cleaner or
under running water.
After the defrost water drain has been dismantled, drip trays can be hinged down for cleaning
purposes.
During the dismantling of the drain and the trays, please pay attention to potentially
existent drain heatings which are running through the pipe. Do not damage the cables!

4.4.3 Testing of the fans

All serial devices provided by thermofin are equipped with maintenance-free and power-saving
fans made by well-known manufacturers. Nevertheless, the fans should be regularly checked for
proper functioning, bearing noises, free running and / or unbalances. Furthermore, the clamping
lids must be checked for tight fit and leaks. As the bearings are maintenance-free and lifetime
lubricated by the manufacturer, special inspection is not required. In case of longer standstill
periods of the system, it is recommended to operate the fans for approx. 3 to 4 hours per month.
All components that where removed, loosened or disassembled for cleaning or inspection
purposes must be properly reinstalled after work completion. They must also be checked
for correct functioning!
Further preventive measures are in the discretion of the plant operator or the company installing
the plant.

4.4.4 Electrical switching and control devices

thermofin offers different variant options with maintenance switch or motor protection switch,
phase angle control or frequency regulators as well as combinations thereof on demand, fully
pre-wired. Here, a function test should be performed at regular intervals. The cables and
components must be subjected to a visual inspection, the terminals must be checked for tight fit.
In addition, it must be checked whether the set parameters are still in line with the machine
configuration.

thermofin GmbH, Am Windrad 1, 08468 Heinsdorfergrund Phone: +49 (0)3765-3800-0

Evaporators Ammonia, state: 2010-04-08 thermofin GmbH

page 20 of 23

All components that where removed, loosened or disassembled for cleaning or inspection
purposes must be properly reinstalled after work completion. They must also be checked
for correct functioning!
Further preventive measures are in the discretion of the plant operator or the company installing
the plant.

4.5 Defrosting
In order to guarantee the efficiency and the operational safety of the heat exchanger in the long
turn, the heat exchanger has to be defrosted on time and at regular intervals. The defrosting
process is automatically initiated via preset intervals, or as needed. The termination of the
defrosting process has to be safeguarded two times (time / temperature or temperature /
temperature). Common Defrosting methods are the defrosting by means of recirculating air, by
means of hot gas, or the electronic defrosting. For economical reasons defrosting processes
without using electric heating rods should be preferred. For a proper defrosting process, please
pay attention to the following notes:

Initiate the defrosting process on time.

Exceeding the maximum pressure must be prevented (pump down ...)
The defrosting process has to be complete, which means that ice and
frost need to be defrosted completely after termination of the defrosting
process. For this, the selection of the final defrosting temperature and
the position of the defrost sensor are of vital importance.
Between termination of the defrosting process and the re-engagement of
the refrigeration system, a dripping time of 3 to 5 minutes is
recommended, during which the heat exchanger coil can completely
drain and the dripping water can drain from the machine via the
discharge.
If the connection of the fans is held up for yet another period of time
(standard value 3 minutes), the defrosting heat is absorbed by the heat
exchanger coil and is therefore not blown into the room as warm humid
air or water drops via the fans.

Attention! Danger of burning on heater rods and hot gas lines!

thermofin GmbH, Am Windrad 1, 08468 Heinsdorfergrund Phone: +49 (0)3765-3800-0

Evaporators Ammonia, state: 2010-04-08 thermofin GmbH

page 21 of 23

4.5.1 Recommendations for the positioning of the defrost sensor

Defrosting by means of recirculating air: If the machines are operated in rooms with temperatures
above the freezing point +5C, the defrosting by means of recirculating air is sufficient in many
cases.
Recommended positioning of the sensor: At the bottom of the fin coil on air outlet side.
Defrosting by means of hot gas: A sufficiently large amount of hot gas has to be available in order
to ensure an efficient and complete defrosting process.
Recommended positioning of the sensor: In the fin coil in the outlet area of the hot gas, on air
intake side.
Electronic defrosting: Safety measures against an overheating (temperature limiter) of the
machines as well as against excessive pressure (pump down system) are to be taken, according to
the regulations from DIN EN 378 as well as EN 60519-2 and VDE 0721. An operation without
temperature control is not permitted!
Recommended positioning of the sensor: In upper area or at the position of the fin coil which is
furthest from the next heater rod, on air intake side.

4.5.2 Further notes regarding the defrosting process

In rooms with temperatures below the freezing point, the discharges and pipes for condensation
water have to be heated, so that a freezing of the condensate inside the pipes is prevented. Due to
the same reason, no siphons or the like are to be arranged inside the room.
The existent defrosting closure devices (flaps,...) are to be used.
The simultaneous usage of textile shut ups and fan ring heaters carries a substantial fire risk.
Careful examination and monitoring of each particular case is essential.

thermofin GmbH, Am Windrad 1, 08468 Heinsdorfergrund Phone: +49 (0)3765-3800-0

Evaporators Ammonia, state: 2010-04-08 thermofin GmbH

page 22 of 23

5. Operation and shutdown

5.1 Normal operation
For running the machine, the entire plant including the electrical system must be operating.
The machine is integrated in the cooling circuit by opening the corresponding shut-off valves.
It is turned on by activating the electrical system.
After reaching the machine-specific operating point the machine is ready for operation.
In case of operating conditions which differ from those stated in the offer, the manufacturer must
be consulted.

5.2 Shutdown
The machines are part of a refrigeration system. Machine shutdown and return to service must
meet the system-dependent requirements as well as the requirements of the operating manual of
the equipment manufacturer and of the applicable standards and accident prevention regulations
(see also chapter 1.3 1.3 ). The shutdown is effected via the shutoff of the fluid-conducting lines
as well as via the shutdown of the electrical system.
The following applies for all devices: Exceeding the maximum pressure must
be prevented!
In case of longer standstill periods of the system, the fans should be operated for
approx. 3 to 4 hours per month.

6. Spare parts
After-sales services are to be performed by the responsible specialist company. Spare parts are
stated in the spare parts list enclosed in the annex or in the specified drawing. They can also be
requested from the manufacturer by indicating the device name and the project number on the type
plate.
Only use original spare parts for the replacement of equipment components.

thermofin GmbH, Am Windrad 1, 08468 Heinsdorfergrund Phone: +49 (0)3765-3800-0

Evaporators Ammonia, state: 2010-04-08 thermofin GmbH

page 23 of 23