RACA Journal February 2025 RACA_February2025 | Page 35

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KURT JOHANNSEN ’ S

DECADES IN AMMONIA

OTTC Ammonia Specialist course lecturer Kurt Johannsen has dedicated his life to the field of refrigeration , particularly ammonia refrigeration

At 84 years of age , Johannsen continues to impart his extensive knowledge and experience to the next generation of technicians by delivering the critical last two weeks of the Open Trade Training Centre ( OTTC ) course .

Johannsen ' s journey began in Denmark , where he started his career before being sent to South Africa in 1973 by a Danish company . His initial work was with NDE ( National Dairy Equipment ) where he worked for 17 years . In 1990 , he took a significant step by founding his own company , Freezetech . After 12 years he joined Multistage Cooling ( MSC ) and worked there until Energy Partners purchased MSC .

Since 2003 Johannsen ’ s passion for education was ignited when Isolde Dobelin of OTTC approached him to teach . Recognising a significant gap in refrigeration education in South Africa , Johannsen accepted the challenge . This decision marked the beginning of a teaching career which has so far spanned two decades .

The training programme focuses on ammonia refrigeration , which he champions as a sustainable and environmentally friendly refrigerant . He emphasises the importance of ammonia not only for its efficiency but also for not contributing to global warming potential ( GWP ) nor depletion of the Ozone layer ( ODP ) compared to synthetic refrigerants that contribute significantly to GWP and ODP . The courses combine theoretical education with practical experience , offering a unique learning experience that he says is unparalleled in the ammonia field in South Africa .

When he started at OTTC , a five-week course was available , and a two-week designer course was added aimed at professionals seeking to deepen their knowledge in ammonia refrigeration . This curriculum is rooted in his vast experience of over 50 years in the field , starting from his apprenticeship to his role as a mechanical engineer . Johannsen continuously updates the course content to reflect current industry standards and practices .

Johannsen ’ s passion for teaching stems from witnessing the transformation of his students . He finds immense satisfaction in seeing them grow in their understanding and skills . " I love teaching ," he says , " because you can see how happy they are when they learn something new ."

As he continues to work in the field ( with Energy Partners ), Johannsen remains an influential figure in the refrigeration industry . His ongoing involvement ensures he stays current with industry developments , allowing him to keep the curricula updated . “ As soon as new , safer , and more energy-efficient methods emerge , we incorporate them into the course ,” he explains .

Only 2 % of the ammonia found in nature is used in the refrigeration field . “ Every mammal produces ammonia ,” he explains , highlighting its vital role in life processes . " Your body generates about 20 grams of ammonia daily , which is essential for survival , much like oxygen and water ." This connection to human biology underscores the importance of ammonia , not only in refrigeration but also in sustaining life .

Johannsen ' s teaching extends beyond just theoretical knowledge ; he shares anecdotes of past students who have successfully transitioned into careers in ammonia refrigeration . One notable example involves a former petrol attendant who , after being educated at OTTC , improved his life significantly , eventually purchasing a car and a house . This transformative impact on students ' lives is a source of pride for Johannsen .

Students often return for refresher courses , driven by the legal requirements to maintain their licenses . Johannsen points out that many are motivated not only by financial gain but also by a genuine passion for the field . " When they discover ammonia refrigeration , they become hooked and eager to advance their careers ," he says . The industry is facing a significant shortage of skilled technicians , which further fuels demand for education in this area . He remains committed to training future generations , stating , “ I intend to continue teaching as long as I can .” RACA

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