SMC Discussion Areas

Trouble-Shooting => Refrigeration => Topic started by: Lulu on May 22, 2005, 08:40:08 am

Title: Pipe wrap
Post by: Lulu on May 22, 2005, 08:40:08 am

Hi,

I've noticed that on several restored machines the refrigeration lines have insulated pipe wrap covering them.
Is this to make the machine more efficient or just cosmetic?
I thought I'd ask the experts here for their opinions, pros and cons, before I try it. Any comments??

Title: Pipe wrap
Post by: BryanH on May 22, 2005, 09:15:51 am

Hey LuAnn - are you referring to the water lines for water fountain or the the refrigeration lines between the compressor, condenser and evaporator? Not an expert but I have seen wrap on the fountain lines but not on the refrigeration lines.

Title: Pipe wrap
Post by: Lulu on May 22, 2005, 06:23:10 pm

Bob,

The ones I saw wrapped were on the refrigerator lines. The machines didn't have fountains on them.

Title: Pipe wrap
Post by: loman4ec on May 22, 2005, 09:08:15 pm

I have seen it as well but I don't know it's purpose. For some reason I see it more on Vendo 39's than anything else.

Title: Pipe wrap
Post by: on May 23, 2005, 12:14:08 am

i.e.:

(Not mine)

Title: Pipe wrap
Post by: Kevin C on May 23, 2005, 04:34:47 pm

Hello

It is insulation on the suction line! Just like your AC in your house.

Kevin

Title: Pipe wrap
Post by: on May 23, 2005, 09:47:35 pm

LuAnn - the reason for the insulation is that the suction line gets very cold; if left uninsulated it'll capture condensation which creates drips, rust, and the end of the world as we know it. Plus it makes the cooling less efficient since there's a loss of cooling to the outside air. I'd recommend insulating those lines whenever / wherever possible outside of the area you're intending to cool. Insulation can typically be purchased through HVAC supply stores, and some appliance parts outlets.

Title: Pipe wrap
Post by: Lulu on May 26, 2005, 05:33:18 am

Thanks for the info. I think I will add this touch to my machines.