PROJECT
INCORPORATING COLD CHAIN
Masonary air handling unit upgraded to latest Pick n Pay specification . Old vs revamped box .
“ Refurbishment is a complex process that benefits from experience and expertise . By adopting a methodical approach and leveraging modern technologies , it ’ s possible to achieve significant improvements in performance as well as significant cost savings , while maintaining operational continuity ,” adds Pengelly .
ELMEC AIRCONDITIONING ' S ROLE IN THE PICK N PAY REFURBISHING PROJECT
Frikkie Kleyn , managing member at Elmec Airconditioning , discusses the company ’ s pivotal role in the refurbishment of various Pick n Pay stores nationwide .
Kleyn emphasises the significant improvements made in the refurbishment timeline , reducing downtime from 12-16 weeks to just 5-8 weeks . “ The key focus is on minimising disruption to daily operations while ensuring quality work ,” he notes . This shift not only saves costs but also enhances the shopping experience for customers .
Elmec ’ s refurbishment process involves thorough inspections of existing air conditioning units to assess their viability for refurbishment . “ We have extensive experience refurbishing these systems . If a unit isn ’ t likely to last another 15 to 20 years , it doesn ’ t make sense to refurbish it .”
The refurbishment strategy includes complete overhauls of the air conditioning units . “ We essentially strip everything down to the shell . Then , we replace all internal components , including wiring , coils and fans , ensuring everything looks brand new . The goal is for the client to feel like they ’ ve installed a new system , even if the outer shell is the original unit .”
He cites one of his greatest compliments received , which ironically was initially meant as a criticism : “ The project owner ’ s national operations manager queried why there were a couple of small dents on what he assumed was a new box . He couldn ’ t believe it when I clarified that it was a refurbished 20-year-old box . Once he realised the context , he doubly appreciated the work we had done .”
Kleyn also shares that the feedback from Pick n Pay has been overwhelmingly positive . “ Nigel has been instrumental in this project , and the responses from him and his team reflect our commitment to quality and performance ,” he says . The focus on achieving the best possible outcomes for Pick n Pay balances innovation with
practicality . “ We want our work to not only meet expectations but exceed them .”
According to Kleyn , the refurbishment aims to address multiple concerns , primarily focusing on cost savings , environmental sustainability and operational efficiency . “ One of the main reasons for refurbishing the air conditioning systems is to provide significant cost savings compared to replacing the entire unit ,” he explains . By refurbishing , they aim to retain some components , effectively ‘ recycling ’ materials rather than simply discarding them .
When asked how Elmec ensures that refurbishments do not interfere with Pick n Pay ’ s daily operations , Kleyn highlights the preparation phase . “ A significant portion of the work can be done while the existing systems are still operational ,” he says . Most units they encounter are already partially failed , allowing Elmec to start preliminary work without affecting store performance .
“ By using the available space in plant areas , we can install new condensing units and complete much of the pipework in advance . This way , by the time the new coils arrive , we ’ ve already done about 50 % of the work .”
In cases where complete shutdowns are necessary , like during peak summer , Elmec strategically plans the refurbishments to minimise impact . “ We ensure that we do most of the heavy lifting during off-peak hours , often in the evenings ,” he explains . This careful scheduling allows for seamless transitions with minimal downtime .
Kleyn also discusses the innovative LG Smart 5 controller , which enhances the functionality of the refurbished systems . “ This is a versatile controller that simplifies programming and allows for real-time monitoring ,” he says . The tablet-shaped device is easily integrated into the existing infrastructure , allowing technicians to manage and program the system without requiring specialised software skills .
The use of the LG Smart 5 controller allows for remote monitoring , further enhancing the efficiency of the refurbished systems . Kleyn highlights this technology as
Old centrifugal casing converted to house EC Plug Fans . Revamped box with LG units .
a crucial element in maintaining operational standards while meeting modern environmental criteria .
The LG Smart 5 controller supports various inputs and outputs , providing flexibility and comprehensive oversight of the refrigeration system . “ It enables us to monitor crucial parameters like refrigeration pressures and system data .” This capability allows Elmec ’ s technical team to diagnose issues remotely before dispatching technicians to the site .
“ This off-site monitoring is a gamechanger as a standard feature without the addition of expensive building management systems ( BMS ). Unlike traditional systems where you can only check if a unit is on or off , the LG Smart 5 gives us detailed insights into system performance . This means we can address potential issues proactively , ensuring efficient operations for Pick n Pay .”
Coordination is vital in such a project . “ VMG takes the lead on project management . They handle the design
24 www . coldlinkafrica . co . za COLD LINK AFRICA • November / December 2024