Ozefridge Tech Class: 2 Eutectic Plate Temperature Measurement

At the heart of the efficiently of a Eutectic Plate marine refrigeration system is accurate temperature measurement and control of the energy absorption, storage, and release by the glycol eutectic liquid inside the holding plate. To do this efficiently, OzeFridge Eutectic Plates are built with a thermal well that extends into the center of the holding plate. This unique design feature, allows for proper temperature control and compressor cycling to take maximum advantage of the glycols phase change ability to store large amounts of BTU heat absorption capacity in the plate.

Based on decades of Eutectic Plate experience, the actual plate temperature is usually 10 Degs F colder than the actual box temperature. Many factors can affect this temperature range difference, such as box volume to Eutectic Plate surface area and volume of eutectic liquid ratios. In a eutectic system, controlling the compressor cycling using the box air temperature or plate surface temperature can lead to larger temperature swings and system inefficiencies. For example, if the temperature probe on an OzeFridge refrigerator system was removed from the thermal well and left to measure box air temperature, then the compressor “on” cycle will possibly run continuously until the beer and veggies freeze. This is because the thermostat would be keeping the compressor running until the plate low temp was reached, which is about 10 Degs colder than the desired/target box temperature.

Taking full advantage of Eutectic Plate refrigeration, means having good monitoring and control of the Eutectic Liquid.