Air Cooled Evaporator – ICE BANK

What is an Ice Bank?

An Ice Bank is a thermal energy storage (TES) system that stores cooling energy in the form of ice. It is also known as an Ice Storage System. This technology is used to optimize energy consumption and reduce electricity usage in air conditioning and industrial cooling systems, often working alongside compression chillers. One of its primary applications is in the food industry, particularly in dairy processing, where it is directly used in the production of dairy products.

Key Features of Sabcool Ice Bank:

• Fully stainless steel construction, compatible with freon and ammonia systems.
• Stainless steel tubes with internal and external fins made of TP 304L stainless steel (ASTM – A249 standard).
• Entire chassis and body made of 304 stainless steel.

The Problem with High Energy Consumption of Compression Chillers and the Role of Ice Banks:

One of the main challenges in air conditioning and industrial cooling is the high electricity consumption of compression chillers. Whether it’s air-cooled chillers, water-cooled chillers, or even mini chillers, the compressor in the refrigeration cycle consumes the most electricity. With the increasing demand for chillers in various applications and their high energy consumption, the use of ice banks is becoming more widespread. Additionally, the rising cost of electricity tariffs, especially during peak hours, has further driven the adoption of this technology.

How Ice Banks Work:

Given the high energy consumption of compression chillers and the increased cost of electricity during peak hours, ice banks allow energy to be stored during off-peak hours and used during peak hours. This means that the cooling process (absorbing the cooling load) can be performed using the ice bank, while the chiller is used to produce ice during times when electricity consumption and costs are lower. This method is particularly effective during hot seasons, offering a great solution for reducing electricity costs.

Other Cold Room Essentials:

• Cold Rooms
• Blast Freezers
• Sandwich Panels
• PVC Curtains

Advantages of Ice Bank:

1. Energy Storage: Ice banks can store energy during low-demand periods and release it during high-demand periods, optimizing the use of the cooling system and reducing energy consumption.
2. Rapid Response: Due to the stored energy in the form of ice, ice banks can quickly respond to cooling needs, reducing the time required to generate cooling.
3. Flexibility: The capacity of the ice bank can be managed by adjusting the number and size of the tanks, providing greater flexibility in meeting cooling demands.
4. Long Lifespan: Ice banks have a longer lifespan compared to other cooling systems due to reduced thermal and mechanical stress.
5. Water Independence: Unlike some cooling systems that require water sources, ice banks use pure water for ice production and cooling, minimizing the need for water resources.

Important Considerations When Purchasing an Ice Bank:

1. Capacity: Determine your cooling capacity requirements based on your cooling needs.
2. Dimensions and Space: Ensure the ice bank fits the available space and allows for easy installation, maintenance, and repair.
3. Build Quality and Brand: Purchase from experienced suppliers and reputable brands to ensure reliable performance and quality construction.
4. Energy Efficiency: Choose an ice bank with high energy efficiency to reduce operational costs.
5. Control System: Ensure the ice bank has a suitable control system for precise management and operation.
6. After-Sales Service: Verify that the supplier offers quality after-sales services, including installation, maintenance, and repair.
7. Price: Compare prices among different suppliers while considering quality and performance.
8. Standards and Certifications: Ensure the ice bank complies with relevant industrial standards and has the necessary certifications.