2021 RETA Breeze March-April

EPIC FAILS

FINGERS CROSSED (I HOPE IT HOLDS)

Pipe Supports are an often overlooked part of our ammonia refrigeration systems. Often, they are installed as an afterthought, often as cheaply as possible. Many times, they are made of materials that look like they are from someone’s garage, or a quick run to the local home improvement store.

5.11.1 General. Supports and anchorage for refrigeration equipment shall be designed in accordance with the Building Code. 5.11.2 Combustibility. Structural supports shall be noncombustible. Pressure-treated lumber and synthetic materials shall be permitted under structural supports to protect the roof. 5.11.3 Seismic Joints and Restraints. Seismic joints and restraints shall be provided as required by the Building Code. 5.11.4 Manufacturers’ Recommendations and Expected Loads. Supports and foundations shall

The International Institute for Ammonia Refrigeration (IIAR) develops standards that are considered to be Recognized and Generally Accepted Good Engineering Practices (RAGAGEP) for the ammonia refrigeration industry. IIAR2, the Standard for Safe Design of Closed Circuit Ammonia Refrigeration Systems, does, in fact, give us requirements for proper piping support. The requirements are found across three separate sections. Section 5.11 provides general requirements for equipment AND piping supports. 5.11 Foundations, Piping, Tubing, and Equipment Supports

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