JBS targeted an expansion of the Lenoir, NC facility as a new processing hub for their Wild Forks Foods subsidiary. Due to the large scale of this expansion, a complete independent ammonia refrigeration system was required.
Refrigeration Design & Service (RD&S) designed a two-stage ammonia refrigeration system for this new expansion. The new system includes eight (8) GEA screw compressors having a combined motor total of 4,050-HP. One variable speed driven compressor is included on each suction level to allow for efficient low load/weekend operating conditions. The design also includes both high temperature and low temperature recirculator packages.
High temperature room cooling is accomplished with Evapco ceiling hung evaporators with stainless steel casing for corrosion protection. The ceiling hung evaporators include reheat coils for humidity control and improved dehumidification after washdown. Finally, the high temperature system also includes an Evapco makeup air unit with stainless steel liner and fully welded stainless steel ductwork for plant pressurization.
The low temperature portion of the system is dominated by four (4) (-40°F) spiral freezers, including three (3) double drum spiral freezers and one (1) single drum spiral. The low stage system allows Wild Forks to process nearly 32,000 lbs. of various protein products per hour. The entire low side of the system has been designed with an extremely low pressure drop, featuring 304 SS piping, motorized suction butterfly valves, and an 18” wet suction line.
Controlling and sequencing the refrigeration system, is an RD&S Allen Bradley PLC based control system. This system, along with the motor control center for the ceiling hung evaporators and condensers was assembled in our UL certified panel shop in Fairless Hills, PA. RD&S programmers provided on-site startup and support along with RD&S service technicians to ensure that the startup procedure was hassle free for the end user.
JBS – Refrigeration System Expansion