HVAC
Layer upon layer had built up during that time – eventually insulating the units’ coils and aluminium with layers of solid sugar. The physical blockage prevented effective heat transfer, resulting in a sharp drop-off in the efficiency of the units.
At the Derbyshire factory, two units directly above the chocolate mixing area suffered particularly harshly and required urgent attention.
When a unit has any significant blockage, the affected AHU must be decommissioned for maintenance. Without an alternative available, this disrupts production until that unit is repaired and recommissioned.
A number of approaches to breaking down the thick sugar were considered. For example, the AHU’s coils could be replaced, but the expense ruled this out as an ongoing approach. Brushing the units would lower the cost, but the long and arduous nature of removing the stubborn build up would likely take the unit out of commission for some time.
An initial site visit allowed Advanced Engineering’s engineers to examine the problem first-hand. During this assessment, the engineers found that, at times, some of the units had no air flow at all.
While they recognised that a chemical solution would be needed, there wasn’t a suitable one available for the HVACR market. There were many formulations for combatting different types of dirt, but there was nothing available that had been specifically formulated for sugar build up.
Advanced Engineering’s lab set out to develop an efficient and inexpensive chemical solution that could be used safely in environments where food is handled. The team worked in close collaboration with the University of Surrey’s Chemistry Department – The result being the development of RTU Sucro.
HOW IT WORKS It works by breaking polymeric sugar molecules down into
smaller, easier-to-dissolve monosaccharides. These are then hydrated with a water-soluble group so that residue can be washed off easily.
The oxidative-fermentation of caramelised sugar also produces acidic byproducts. These can cause units to rust, so RTU Sucro has been formulated with mild organic salts to remove corrosion.
When there are medium levels of contamination, it is important to begin by isolating the unit. A low-pressure sprayer can then be used to apply a 2:1 mix of water to RTU Sucro between the coil fins.
After application, the solution will begin reacting with the deposit – creating a foam blanket. The solution should be left in place for five-to-ten minutes before being rinsed off with clean water. In some instances, the foam may also need to be wet vacced. Following this, the unit can return to operation.
For heavier levels of contamination, such as those found on the AHUs in the chocolatier’s mixing area, the chemical should be used neatly for the same effective results.
RESULTS In trials at the chocolate factory, the product proved highly
effective. It increased unit airflow by up to 100% in some cases, as large deposits, some years old, were removed within a short period of time.
The breakthrough impressed the chocolatiers as it delivered exactly what was needed: an inexpensive, highly-effective and easy-to-use solution.
ONGOING COVERAGE This new chemical’s success at the chocolate factory has
seen it incorporated into the HVAC service contractor’s ongoing site maintenance regime.
To keep sugar in check, all AHUs are cleaned biannually with RTU Sucro, while the worst affected units are treated four times a year.
Advanced Engineering’s solution to this sticky problem saved time and money for the chocolatiers and their HVAC Service Contractor and has proved to be another example of the company providing the solutions the industry wants and needs to succeed.
www.advancedengineering.co.uk
www.tomorrowsfm.com
TOMORROW’S FM | 37
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