Danfoss has introduced Cool Ctrl, a new line of preconfigured evaporator control panels aimed at simplifying industrial refrigeration setup, installation, and design. The new line is available in both standard and advanced variants and is built to reduce commissioning time, enhance safety, and boost energy and performance efficiency.
The standard Cool Ctrl evaporator control panels can control two evaporators. Image used courtesy of Danfoss
Preconfigured To Save Design Time
Oftentimes, one of the challenging aspects of refrigeration projects is determining the appropriate control hardware and software. The new Cool Ctrl evaporator control panels aim to solve this challenge by being preconfigured with standard control settings for industrial evaporators.
This industry-ready approach eliminates the need for repeated setup tasks and reduces the extensive communication needed between programmers, contractors, and panel builders on the required specifications.
The new panels come in standard and advanced versions, ensuring they work with a broad range of evaporator systems, including systems that use ammonia, carbon dioxide, and HFC/HCFC refrigerants.
Installation Designed for the Field
To further reduce wiring errors and setup times, each Cool Ctrl panel features a compact hardware layout with clearly labelled terminals and components. The panels are also equipped with separate AC and DC wireways to ensure clear and safe installations.
The Cool Ctrl advanced evaporator control panels can control four evaporators and feature a user-friendly, built-in touchscreen. Image used courtesy of Danfoss
Additionally, the new solution has the capability of independently operating and controlling evaporators without needing a main PLC connection, making it suitable for both retrofits and new installations.
When it comes to safety, the new panel features tested, predefined hot gas defrost control sequences that align with the IIAR guidelines for hot gas defrost operations. Evaporator configuration is further simplified by the panel's user-friendly interface that ensures technicians select the valves for each configuration.
Commission Faster, Program Less
With all the control logic integrated directly into the panel, Danfoss' new solution reduces wiring and testing time. According to Cool Ctrl System Controls Product Manager, Jay Lyon, the time spent by contractors is reduced by the new solution for every stage, as all the core control algorithms are already featured in the product. Lyon noted that this means commissioning can start before the installation of the main PLC.
Additionally, contractors can view and adjust all operational values and advanced settings directly through the main PLC of the system, significantly cutting down on programming and testing time.
A look inside the advanced Cool Ctrl evaporator control panel. Image used courtesy of Danfoss
Two Configurations for Different Project Needs
Danfoss provides two versions of the Cool Ctrl to accommodate different project sizes and integration requirements. The standard evaporator control panel offers easy setup through the Cool Config software, controlling up to two evaporators. The panel supports Modbus RTU and is ideal for use in small to medium industrial settings.
The advanced evaporator control panel, on the other hand, can control up to four evaporators. This advanced panel offers PLC-based control with a touchscreen and a built-in web server. It provides customizable settings for remote access, enhanced security features, and supports various communication protocols, including Modbus RTU, Ethernet/IP, and Modbus TCP.
Driving Efficiency in Industrial Refrigeration
With the growing need for efficiency in modern refrigeration technology, industries are embracing newer control technologies. Solutions like Danfoss' Cool Ctrl lineup, which features simplified design and streamlined installation to reduce programming time and enhance energy efficiency, serve as a potential choice for system integrators seeking smarter, safer, and more efficient refrigeration system management.
