GEA AWP introduces HSX Valve: Breakthrough for Ammonia, CO₂ cooling systems

GERMANY – In a move to enhance industrial cooling and refrigeration processes, GEA AWP has introduced its new HSX high-pressure float valve, tailored for ammonia (NH₃) and carbon dioxide (CO₂) systems. 

Designed to serve sectors including cold storage, chemical processing and transportation, the valve offers a robust solution for improving energy efficiency while minimizing maintenance demands.

Mechanical solution for complex applications

The HSX high-pressure float valve operates without electricity, eliminating the need for additional cabling or control systems. 

Its purely mechanical design enables the use of lower condensation temperatures, particularly advantageous during colder seasons. 

For example, a reduction of just 5 °C in condensing temperature translates to over 13% energy savings, making the valve a cost-effective and environmentally conscious choice.

This innovative valve also features welded shut-off valves at the inlet and outlet, a vacuum nozzle, and a manual transport lock. 

Its mechanical throttle opening ensures precise refrigerant expansion, leading to a consistent liquid-vapor mixture that is discharged to the separator. 

By maintaining continuous refrigerant expansion, the valve mitigates pressure fluctuations and reduces flash gas, thereby lowering compressor power consumption.

Optimizing hot gas defrosting

The HSX high-pressure float valve is also suitable for hot gas defrosting in evaporators, offering a method to enhance energy efficiency. 

By allowing only condensed liquid to pass through to the low-pressure side, the valve prevents wasteful hot gas flow. This approach can result in up to 50% energy savings compared to other defrosting methods.

Advanced features and technical specifications

Constructed from steel and compliant with DIN EN 12284 and AD-2000 standards, the HSX valve accommodates a cooling capacity of up to 2,646 kW. 

It operates within a wide temperature range of -60 °C to +75 °C and supports nominal diameters of DN 50 and DN 80, with a pressure stage of PS 40. 

Connections are available in weld ends adhering to both DIN and ANSI standards, offering versatility for global applications.

TRplus: Reliable liquid temperature control

Complementing the HSX valve, GEA has upgraded its TRplus thermostatic 3-way valves, enhancing their ease of maintenance and operational reliability. 

These valves are designed for mixing or diverting fluids in cooling and heating systems without requiring an external power supply.

The TRplus valves, constructed from steel, stainless steel, and cryogenic steel, operate within a broad temperature range of -60 °C to +200 °C and withstand pressures up to PS 63. 

With their automatic and precise temperature control, they are suited for a variety of industrial processes, further reinforcing GEA’s portfolio of energy-efficient solutions.

Advancing energy efficiency in industrial cooling

GEA AWP’s latest offerings demonstrate a commitment to improving the efficiency and reliability of cooling systems. 

By introducing the HSX high-pressure float valve and optimizing the TRplus thermostatic valve, the company aims to meet the evolving demands of industries requiring sustainable and cost-effective cooling technologies.