Understanding SANS 10147:2014 ( Ed . 5.00 ) for Refrigerating Systems and Air-Conditioning Plants .
CONTRIBUTORS
INCORPORATING COLD CHAIN
Plant compliance will become an essential in future
By John Ackermann
Understanding SANS 10147:2014 ( Ed . 5.00 ) for Refrigerating Systems and Air-Conditioning Plants .
Ensuring compliance with industry standards is critical for plant owners and operators in South Africa . In particular , adherence to SANS 10147:2014 ( Ed . 5.00 ) is essential for refrigerating systems and plants associated with air-conditioning systems . This article highlights the importance of compliance with this code and the implications it has on plant safety , environmental concerns and long-term costs .
Originally introduced as a standard , SABS 0147 , industry regarded compliance with it as a matter of good engineering practice and safety . However , the shift to SANS 10147 emphasised the need for legal adherence . Large corporations , such as chemical plants , mining houses and breweries , along with international companies , have been proactive in complying . Compliance not only ensures safety but also covers environmental issues , such as controlling leakages of substances regulated by the Montreal Protocol .
SANS 10147 plays a vital role in maintaining plant safety and safeguarding the wellbeing of workers . Additionally , it addresses environmental concerns by aligning with evolving regulations . The Montreal Protocol , initially focused on substances like HCFCs and CFCs , has expanded its scope to include HFCs . Compliance with SANS 10147 ensures that plants are designed to minimise environmental impact and prevent leaks of harmful refrigerants . It helps increase the lifespan of the plant and reduce lifecycle costs , promoting sustainable practices .
Insurance companies prioritise risk assessment and compliance when evaluating plant coverage . Companies conscious of safety and committed to meeting standards stand a better chance of obtaining insurance coverage . Insurers carefully assess whether plants meet the standard requirements , and failure to comply can result in challenges when seeking compensation for accidents or incidents .
Moreover , non-compliant plants may face difficulties obtaining coverage or may be subject to increased premiums .
IMPACT ON POWER CONSUMPTION AND EFFICIENCY
When plants are designed and commissioned in line with the standard , they are more likely to operate at optimal efficiency levels . This adherence to the standard can result in reduced power consumption and lower emissions , aligning with sustainable practices and minimising operational costs .
Proper installation and commissioning are key factors in achieving optimal plant performance . It is not uncommon for plants to experience diminished performance after a year or two of operation , often due to inadequate conditioning during the initial stages . This lack of compliance with design specifications can impact energy consumption , costs and the plant ' s ability to fulfil its intended functions .
John Ackermann published the first Cold Link newspaper in September 1987 as a trade newspaper for the refrigeration industry , and continues as a consultant to Cold Link Africa to this day . He was the founding president of Southern African Refrigerated Distribution Association ( SARDA ). He owns and manages Jack Agencies in Cape Town , which imports and distributes components for ammonia / industrial refrigeration systems .
Refrigerants play a vital role in plant operations , but their environmental impact cannot be ignored . The use of natural refrigerants offers advantages , but safety measures and adherence to standards cannot be compromised . Furthermore , with the Kigali Amendment to the Montreal Protocol , there is a shift towards lower global warming potential ( GWP ) refrigerants . Chemical manufacturers are actively developing refrigerants with reduced GWP to comply with these requirements . However , it is essential to
28 www . coldlinkafrica . co . za COLD LINK AFRICA • July / August 2023