German inspection and product certification service provider TÜV SÜD has opened a test station for CO2 (R744) refrigeration systems, reports German HVAC&R magazine Die Kälte- und Klimatechnik.
The new test station is part of TÜV SÜD’s Center of Competence für Kälte- und Klimatechnik (CoC) in Olching, near Munich. The 8,500 m2 centre is Europe’s largest independent test laboratory for HVAC&R systems.
The CoC already had test stations for HVAC&R equipment. But it opened the new facility to satisfy high demand for CO2 refrigeration testing. TÜV SÜD tests for compliance with the German (harmonised with European) standards DIN EN 327 (air-cooled condensers and gas coolers) and DIN EN 328 (fan air coolers). Display cabinets with or without an internal expansion valve as well as condensing units can also be tested.
Gas coolers operating with capacities of 10 to 100 kW can be tested up to a maximum pressure of 100 bar. TÜV SÜD can test air coolers from 3 to 40 kW operating at temperatures of -34°C to +10°C.
Optimising the piping between the components was a special challenge. All connections are made from stainless steel to maximise safety. The low-pressure side is secured in three steps at 25, 38 and 53 bar to satisfy market demand.
TÜV SÜD was keen to ensure that the test station is easy to use. It offers interfaces in programming and visualisation as well as documentation and values. The CO2 testing facility is built on wheels to maximise flexibility.
