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How do I decide what size & type of evaporator is right for my application?
You will first need to measure or calculate the cubic volume of the box to be refrigerated, & estimate the
thickness of the insulation. From these figures you can decide what size evaporator to use by consulting the
spec sheet. There are 3 types available: a flat plate that can be mounted on one wall or bent to conform to
the shape of the box; a vertical bin that started out as a flat plate, & has been formed into an oval shape
& a bottom added; & a horizontal model which is similar to a bin, but with the addition of a door secured
by bungee cord. For dedicated refrigerators or freezers the flat plate works best & takes up the least room.
If you have adjoining boxes separated by an insulated barrier, the flat plate can be mounted in the freezer
side and the temperature in the refrigerator controlled with a spill-over fan & thermostat. In a single box
application, either a vertically mounted bin or a horizontal model will give a freezing section in the enclosed
area while keeping the rest of the box at refrigerator temperatures. If you are planning an all-freezer box
or a spill-over system, remember to order a freezer thermostat. If you want the ability to be able to make
a box either a refrigerator or a freezer, order a dual thermostat. Stainless steel, brine filled holding plates
are also available for special applications.
What is so special about the compressor?
The compressors used in the Frigoboat systems are the BD35 & BD50 made in Germany by Danfoss. This is
a new design of 12/24 volt compressor that has a variable speed, brushless, 3-phase motor powered by an
electronic controller. Compared to previous models, these compressors are more efficient, draw less current,
& are smaller & lighter. Thanks to the combination of these high efficiency compressors & the Frigoboat keel
cooler, we can now install these systems in applications that only a year or two ago would require a bulky,
costly, & mechanically unpredictable holding plate system. Many boats have multiple systems installed, &
owners appreciate the silent operation, even box temperatures, & the piece of mind that, although highly
reliable, there is some redundancy in case of a breakdown.
Do I need a refrigeration technician to install a system?
No. Each component of a Frigoboat system is shipped pre-charged with refrigerant R134a and with copper
connecting lines that terminate in male & female fittings. When the fittings of two components are connected
together it releases the refrigerant and the circuit is completed. The final seal in the fittings is accomplished
with an o-ring, so they do not require to be wrenched down tight & are not prone to refrigerant leaks in
freezing conditions, as is common with metal-to-metal seals used by other manufacturers. No refrigeration
knowledge or experience is necessary, no special tools are required, & a comprehensive installation manual
is shipped with every system.
Where can I buy a Frigoboat system?
If you plan to install a Frigoboat system yourself, you can buy the parts direct from a Frigoboat dealer/
distributor, but if you are contracting an installer or boat yard to do the job it would be best for them to buy
the parts and charge you for a complete installation. Frigoboat systems are not available through discount
catalogs.
What is the warranty coverage on a Frigoboat system?
Every system is covered by the manufacturer’s warranty that gives 5 years on the compressor, 2 years
on the electronics, & one year on the remaining parts. In most cases a replacement part will be sent out
,
to be easily & quickly installed by the boat operator with the minimum of system downtime. Even
out-of-warranty repairs are normally handled the same way to minimize inconvenience. There is a
comprehensive worldwide dealer network.
Who is Frigoboat, & why have I not heard of them before?
Frigoboat marine refrigeration systems have been made in Italy for over 30 years by Veco S.p.A.,
& are Europe’s leading manufacturer in this field. Indeed, in many countries the name “Frigoboat”
is synonymous with marine refrigeration. Many large-volume & prestigious European boat builders
install Frigoboat equipment, & the keel cooler system is rapidly becoming the standard of choice. Until
recently Frigoboat systems have not received the exposure & support on this side of the Atlantic that
the quality of the equipment has deserved, but that has changed now that Veco NA is representing
Frigoboat in the USA.
Frigoboat keel cooler systems
