Need to Replace the Fridge

[S&S]

Our engine driven system died a couple of years ago and I was looking at replacing it with the (then new) Glacier Bay system (getting tired of loading ice). Unfortunately, they aren't making it at present. Looking at holding plate systems, what's everyone's recommendation as an alternative to GB?
Quality
Durability
Efficiency

[S&S]

No recommendations at all?

[Talbot]

Check out KollmannMarine Boat Refrigeration Specialist

There is a forum for questions, and a book available. There is also a presentation which answers a lot of questions.


IMHO you need to work out how you will use your fridge, and how you create the electricity to run it, That way , you will have the data on whether to use a holding plate or switch to the other system. You then need to look at where you intend to use it, and water and air temperatures, to look at the size of the system required.

[S&S]

Thanks Talbot I'll check him out. We know HVAC (my brother is in the business) but I was looking at this from a component level. GB had a nice system with the variable speed compressor (and they appeared to have quality components) Just checking to see if there are any manf'rs. we should be avoiding.

[Richard Kollmann]

S&S, there are a number of manufacturers that make quality units that are durable and efficient but many of their products may not be suitable for your application. There is a Slide Show on my web site at http://www.kollmann-marine.com that will guide you through the decision process of selecting a replacement refrigeration unit for your boat. If this exercise shows your boat can support 12 volt refrigeration there are a number of refrigeration companies to choose from. If results show that replacement must be engine drive or a large less efficient 12 volt system your selection will be limited to two to three companies.

[S&S]

Thanks Richard, I'll look over the show. Based on previous thoughs on this we're thinking 12V electric.

[witzgall]

S&S;

If you decide you want 12v holding plate, Idel marine was (maybe is) selling excess inventory on eBay right now. THey have thier seawater cooled double compressor versions. Just looked, they are still there, as well as some large evaporator units:

eBay Store - Marine Refrigeration Store: Build-In Refrigeration Systems, Scratch 'n Dent Refurbished

Chris

PS not affiliated. I did buy one, the 4203, though. Shipping was quick, installed easily.

[Pblais]

The basic Danfoos compressor with air cooling does a great job, has been reliable, and comes from various vendors with assorted nuances. Your primary issues are cubic ft of freezer and refrigeration. I've had good luck with spill over freezer / refrig but the trend now is separate of each. Extra insulation any way you can is just the best part but the reality is how much you can add. You don't need much to do it but the battery amp hours will determine how well you can maintain it. You need to do the power homework to see if the battery bank and charging system are up to it.

[Extemporaneous]

Originally Posted by Richard Kollmann

S&S, there are a number of manufacturers that make quality units that are durable and efficient but many of their products may not be suitable for your application. There is a Slide Show on my web site at http://www.kollmann-marine.com that will guide you through the decision process of selecting a replacement refrigeration unit for your boat. If this exercise shows your boat can support 12 volt refrigeration there are a number of refrigeration companies to choose from. If results show that replacement must be engine drive or a large less efficient 12 volt system your selection will be limited to two to three companies.

Richard,
What do you think of Stirling cycle refrigeration?
Welcome to the Dr. Cool's FAQ Room!
http://www.cruisersforum.com/forums/...ers-12685.html
I'd be interested in your take on the current technology.

Regards,
Extemp.

[S&S]

Originally Posted by Extemporaneous

Richard,
What do you think of Stirling cycle refrigeration?
Welcome to the Dr. Cool's FAQ Room!
http://www.cruisersforum.com/forums/...ers-12685.html
I'd be interested in your take on the current technology.

Regards,
Extemp.

I wonder if that would work as a chiller with glycol loops to holding plates. 1 motor, 3 electric valves and I'd be done!

[Richard Kollmann]

Extemp, It is difficult to form an opinion about the Stirling cycle refrigeration systems because of the lack of actual in-service experience data. All new mechanical concepts are introduced as experimental concepts. It takes a great deal of money and time to perfect a reliable design that will be expectable to a large enough market making the project profitable. I mainly concentrate on boat refrigeration for extended use, so reliability, reparability and longevity is important. I understand that the application of Stirling cycle equipment in Coleman portable cooler is gaining market acceptance, but it is an expendable item like a toaster and defiantly not expected to have a 50% duty cycle for six months per year. There were two Stirling cycle machines installed in cruising boats with promises of regular performance reports but that company went out of business.

Globule warming and energy costs are pushing new technology in HVACR industries. Refrigerant R12 is almost phased out with R22 to begin phase out next year. Refrigerant 134a is now being considered for phase out do to its affect on globule warming. Refrigerants of the future for stationary equipment will use CO2 and Butane already in use in other countries. Danfoss has a new solar powered BD35K compressor that uses R600 Butane refrigerant and operates on voltages from 10 to 45 volts. Any refrigerant containing flammables should not be used on a boat.
The soft drink companies were behind the push for Vacuum Insulation Panels (VIP) for their vending machines. Several boaters helped finance the experimental development of these panels by installing them in their boat refrigerators.

[Extemporaneous]

Thanks Richard.
Sounds about right.

Extemp.