Frigitek Technical Information
The
Frigitek controller works in conjunction with 2 speed EC (electronically
commutated) motors to maximize their efficiency and nearly double the energy
savings provided by EC motors alone.
The Frigitek® ECMotor Controller functions by sensing the operational status of the cooling system, and controls the speed of the EC evaporator fans. When the thermostat is satisfied and the compressor cycles off, the Frigitek controller will sense the compressor off cycle and will switch the motors to the slower speed.
Below is an example of the type of of the type of savings comparing a 3 fan motor evaporator unit with standard shaded pole motors to a unit fitted with 3 - 2 speed EC motors and a Frigitek controller.
The Frigitek® ECMotor Controller functions by sensing the operational status of the cooling system, and controls the speed of the EC evaporator fans. When the thermostat is satisfied and the compressor cycles off, the Frigitek controller will sense the compressor off cycle and will switch the motors to the slower speed.
Below is an example of the type of of the type of savings comparing a 3 fan motor evaporator unit with standard shaded pole motors to a unit fitted with 3 - 2 speed EC motors and a Frigitek controller.
Fan Motor Efficiency Rebates
Before Frigitek 4,370. KWH/yr
After Frigitek 649. KWH/yr
Total Savings 3711. KWH/yr
An 83% reduction in energy use
Compressor Motor Efficiency introduced by less heat generated in the box
It is a fact that all of the electrical power which is used by the fan motors ends up as heat inside the refrigerated space. By operating the fans at a low speed when no cooling is called for, and at high speed only when the system is actively cooling the refrigerator, much less heat is introduced into the refrigerator. Although this results in an additional saving in evaporator fan motor energy consumption, the reduction in fan motor heat generated causes a significant reduction in refrigeration operation, saving enough energy at the compressor to almost double the savings provided by the EC motors alone.
KWH reduction after Frigitek 1728. KWH/y
Approximate 20% reduction in energy used by the compressor
Before Frigitek 4,370. KWH/yr
After Frigitek 649. KWH/yr
Total Savings 3711. KWH/yr
An 83% reduction in energy use
Compressor Motor Efficiency introduced by less heat generated in the box
It is a fact that all of the electrical power which is used by the fan motors ends up as heat inside the refrigerated space. By operating the fans at a low speed when no cooling is called for, and at high speed only when the system is actively cooling the refrigerator, much less heat is introduced into the refrigerator. Although this results in an additional saving in evaporator fan motor energy consumption, the reduction in fan motor heat generated causes a significant reduction in refrigeration operation, saving enough energy at the compressor to almost double the savings provided by the EC motors alone.
KWH reduction after Frigitek 1728. KWH/y
Approximate 20% reduction in energy used by the compressor
These test results calculations were taken from
the Savings Analysis Program by Energy Control Equipment. This spreadsheet
has been approved and locked by KEMA, an international company assisting most power utilities in the US with their rebate programs.
Several power utilities are currently issuing rebates using this calculator.
has been approved and locked by KEMA, an international company assisting most power utilities in the US with their rebate programs.
Several power utilities are currently issuing rebates using this calculator.
The Controller consists of three major
components:
1. Speed Controller
2. Temperature Differential Sensors
3. An Ice Sensor
The ECMotor Controller unit is normally mounted inside the wiring end of the evaporator. Three cables connect the Controller into the evaporator system. One cable is wired to the power connections, one to the Differential Sensors and one to the Ice Sensor.
The Frigitek® ECMotor Controller is designed to be easily installed when upgrading to EC motors. Installation typically takes about 45 minutes (as does each EC Motor), and can be done by any competent electrician or refrigeration technician. In addition to its energy saving qualities, the Frigitek® ECMotor Controller also provides some intrinsic advantages. The low speed of the fans results in lower evaporation from sensitive stored foods, and the lower noise levels contribute to worker efficiency, and a more pleasant workspace.
1. Speed Controller
2. Temperature Differential Sensors
3. An Ice Sensor
The ECMotor Controller unit is normally mounted inside the wiring end of the evaporator. Three cables connect the Controller into the evaporator system. One cable is wired to the power connections, one to the Differential Sensors and one to the Ice Sensor.
The Frigitek® ECMotor Controller is designed to be easily installed when upgrading to EC motors. Installation typically takes about 45 minutes (as does each EC Motor), and can be done by any competent electrician or refrigeration technician. In addition to its energy saving qualities, the Frigitek® ECMotor Controller also provides some intrinsic advantages. The low speed of the fans results in lower evaporation from sensitive stored foods, and the lower noise levels contribute to worker efficiency, and a more pleasant workspace.
Temperature Differential Sensors (TDS)
The Temperature Differential Sensors (TDS) monitor the temperature
difference across the evaporator expansion valve. This difference in
temperature indicates whether or not refrigerant is flowing through the
evaporator. The Controller commands the fans into high speed when refrigerant
is flowing, into low speed when it is not.
Ice Sensor
The Ice Sensor is used to determine if the evaporator
has developed an ice buildup. If ice is detected, the fans are operated in high
speed until the ice has dissipated. The ice sensor is not used on freezer
installations.
The TDS Sensor and the Ice Sensor interconnect cables are low voltage cables and require no conduit. The highest voltage in these cables is 12 volts.
The low speed for the EC motor is typically 600 RPM, a speed which ECE has determined to provide the best balance between savings and air flow.
Controller Unit
Voltage 2qAW120 Vac or 208-240 Vac set at factory
Current - .15Amp
Motor Control current - .15mA/motor
Size 5.5x 3.25 x 2.0
Weight 10.8 Oz
Mounting Inside evaporator case
Connections Plug-in connections for Power, TDS Sensor and Ice Sensor
- Factory-wired cables are provided for these connections
TDS Sensors
Power 12 VDC (supplied by Controller)
Sensor Current - .01 mA
Size .2 x .5
Weight 1 Oz
Mounting On expansion valve
Cabling 3-wire low voltage
Ice Sensor
Sensor Power 12 VDC (supplied by Controller)
Sensor Current .01 mA Size - .2 x .5
Weight 1 Oz
Mounting Attached to evaporator fins
Cabling 2-wire low voltage
The TDS Sensor and the Ice Sensor interconnect cables are low voltage cables and require no conduit. The highest voltage in these cables is 12 volts.
The low speed for the EC motor is typically 600 RPM, a speed which ECE has determined to provide the best balance between savings and air flow.
Controller Unit
Voltage 2qAW120 Vac or 208-240 Vac set at factory
Current - .15Amp
Motor Control current - .15mA/motor
Size 5.5x 3.25 x 2.0
Weight 10.8 Oz
Mounting Inside evaporator case
Connections Plug-in connections for Power, TDS Sensor and Ice Sensor
- Factory-wired cables are provided for these connections
TDS Sensors
Power 12 VDC (supplied by Controller)
Sensor Current - .01 mA
Size .2 x .5
Weight 1 Oz
Mounting On expansion valve
Cabling 3-wire low voltage
Ice Sensor
Sensor Power 12 VDC (supplied by Controller)
Sensor Current .01 mA Size - .2 x .5
Weight 1 Oz
Mounting Attached to evaporator fins
Cabling 2-wire low voltage