Hällevihallen, the ice rink of Hällefors, Sweden, has seen its energy consumption drop by 30%. A R744 (CO2) refrigeration unit and a tailored heat recovery made it possible.
Hällevihallen is a public ice rink located in Hällefors, Sweden. Originally an outdoor rink from 1973, it became an indoor arena in 1985.
EKA started a collaboration with this municipality already back in 2012 for a technical inventory.
An ammonia refrigeration unit was producing the ice thanks to calcium chloride as a secondary refrigerant.
District heating was used as a heat source for the space heating and domestic hot water (excluding resurfacing water having a direct electricity boiler). The arena is heated to about 8°C.
The "before/after" below confirms that the renovation was the right choice to do with a reasonable return time on investment, making this ice rink self-sufficient for its heat demand. The results show the seasonal consumption (September to March).
How did it happen?
In 2016 EKA provided procurement design and documentation, as well as assisted the facility owner throughout the project.
R744 (CO2) refrigeration unit (about 250kW cooling capacity).
Ammonia water as secondary refrigerant.
Connection of the new 2 stages heat recovery to the existing heating system distribution.
New accumulators and exchangers for the water and heating systems.
Sorption dehumidifier using the high temperature heat recovery from refrigeration unit, equipped with internal heat exchanger on the regeneration air.
Optimisation of air distribution with a new textil duct.
We ask Peter Wiker for his feedback, Peter is Development strategist at Hällefors Municipality and has been on board during the whole process.
What result have you achieved since you received our help?
"Since we got EKA’s help, we have gained more efficient energy usage and the opportunity for other solutions in the system. Above all, we have got a partner who still helps us with our questions about energy systems and ice rinks."
What would be your recommendations to a municipality/organization in the same situation (i.e., with a similar type of facility)?
"My advice is to create/find interest in energy issues and optimization internally in the facility, and then enlist the help of experts for discussion and installations."
And Peter to complete "It is good to create long-term contact with the consultant who was involved in the whole design and construction process. The questions rarely come detached, there are often follow-up questions. Therefore, it is good to have a consultant who has prior knowledge and is service-oriented and is genuinely interested in the facility to work."
(i.e., with a similar type of facility)?