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Explore every episode of the podcast Advanced Refrigeration Podcast

Dive into the complete episode list for Advanced Refrigeration Podcast. Each episode is cataloged with detailed descriptions, making it easy to find and explore specific topics. Keep track of all episodes from your favorite podcast and never miss a moment of insightful content.

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TitlePub. DateDuration
Blast Freezer Convo, & A Loop Sequencer For EPR Control, And A Cross Over ?? Episode - 543 Video26 oct. 202600:51:06

Blast Freezer Convo, & A Loop Sequencer For EPR Control, And A Cross Over ?? Episode - 543

CO2 Blast Freezer Startup Chaos + Taming Load-Shed Valves (PID Tuning Without Losing Your Mind)

In this episode of the Advanced Refrigeration Podcast, Brett and Kevin recap a CO2 blast freezer rack startup in Minnesota, including a pump-down system with a flash tank setup and a 45-bar-rated rack that sparked questions. The startup went sideways when an oil reservoir appeared empty, oil was pumped in, a compressor kicked on unexpectedly, hydraulically hammered the high-pressure switch, and blew the compressor relief—spraying oil on Brett—after a TechLab relay locked the oil fill on. They then shift to ongoing work: dual-temp HFC island case startups and troubleshooting an underloaded low-temp rack that short-cycles compressors. Kevin shows how a CDS valve on a loop sequencer was hunting from 0–100% and how reducing P gain stabilized suction, then they discuss load shedding/crossover valves, energy tradeoffs, and practical PID tuning tips like filtering, throttle range, direct vs reverse action, and making one change at a time.

Blast Freezer Convo, & A Loop Sequencer For EPR Control, And A Cross Over ?? Episode - 543 Audio26 oct. 202600:51:06

Blast Freezer Convo, & A Loop Sequencer For EPR Control, And A Cross Over ?? Episode - 543

CO2 Blast Freezer Startup Chaos + Taming Load-Shed Valves (PID Tuning Without Losing Your Mind)

In this episode of the Advanced Refrigeration Podcast, Brett and Kevin recap a CO2 blast freezer rack startup in Minnesota, including a pump-down system with a flash tank setup and a 45-bar-rated rack that sparked questions. The startup went sideways when an oil reservoir appeared empty, oil was pumped in, a compressor kicked on unexpectedly, hydraulically hammered the high-pressure switch, and blew the compressor relief—spraying oil on Brett—after a TechLab relay locked the oil fill on. They then shift to ongoing work: dual-temp HFC island case startups and troubleshooting an underloaded low-temp rack that short-cycles compressors. Kevin shows how a CDS valve on a loop sequencer was hunting from 0–100% and how reducing P gain stabilized suction, then they discuss load shedding/crossover valves, energy tradeoffs, and practical PID tuning tips like filtering, throttle range, direct vs reverse action, and making one change at a time.

Flexible Combiners, CO2, SH, Liquid Injection, & Hotgas.. Anti Relief, and Oil Control Episode 542 Audio19 oct. 202601:02:51

Flexible Combiners, CO2, SH, Liquid Injection, & Hotgas.. Anti Relief, and Oil Control Episode 542

CO2 Rack Chaos: Superheat Mitigation, Anti-Relief Headaches & Flex Combiner Fails


Brett Wetzel and Kevin Compass catch up on a hectic pre-Thanksgiving workload, including MicroThermal programming surges, Walmart K2 case startups with inconsistent wiring, and struggles accessing newer Novar controllers due to password and tech support issues. They then walk through CO2 rack control logic using E3 flexible combiners, focusing on hot gas injection superheat mitigation, debating appropriate superheat cut-in/cut-out and how low superheat worsens oil carryover. They critique an anti-relief strategy near the flash tank for causing flat racks via dry ice sticking valves, and discuss a receiver hot gas injection scheme meant to maintain winter receiver pressure and oil differential, noting an apparent incomplete implementation. They also review overly complex oil separator pulsing logic, relay wear concerns, and argue standardized CO2 suction group control could eliminate much custom programming confusion

Flexible Combiners, CO2, SH, Liquid Injection, & Hotgas.. Anti Relief, and Oil Control Episode 542 Video19 oct. 202601:02:51

Flexible Combiners, CO2, SH, Liquid Injection, & Hotgas.. Anti Relief, and Oil Control Episode 542

CO2 Rack Chaos: Superheat Mitigation, Anti-Relief Headaches & Flex Combiner Fails


Brett Wetzel and Kevin Compass catch up on a hectic pre-Thanksgiving workload, including MicroThermal programming surges, Walmart K2 case startups with inconsistent wiring, and struggles accessing newer Novar controllers due to password and tech support issues. They then walk through CO2 rack control logic using E3 flexible combiners, focusing on hot gas injection superheat mitigation, debating appropriate superheat cut-in/cut-out and how low superheat worsens oil carryover. They critique an anti-relief strategy near the flash tank for causing flat racks via dry ice sticking valves, and discuss a receiver hot gas injection scheme meant to maintain winter receiver pressure and oil differential, noting an apparent incomplete implementation. They also review overly complex oil separator pulsing logic, relay wear concerns, and argue standardized CO2 suction group control could eliminate much custom programming confusion

Flexible Combiners In E3, What Are They??? , And Some Rae Corp Shenanigans - Episode 541 - Audio12 oct. 202600:56:12

Flexible Combiners In E3, What Are They, And Some Rae Corp Shenanigans Episode 541


Flexible Combiner 101 (E2/E3): Stop Blaming the Flexie for Everything


On the Advanced Refrigeration podcast, Brett Wetzel and Kevin Compass start by troubleshooting a Raycorp CO2 skid startup where one pump won’t make differential despite drive and check-valve checks, concluding the pump is likely bad and difficult to replace due to skid framing and serviceability constraints. They then shift to a practical walkthrough of programming Copeland E2/E3/Site Supervisor “flexible combiners,” emphasizing that flexies are open applications and many tasks should use simpler sensor controls instead. They stress labeling inputs/outputs, using E3 tools like duplicate tabs for troubleshooting, lowering update time for testing, and avoiding common syntax/type errors. They demonstrate building a timer, a cut-in/cut-out fan control (including averaging sensors), and a leak-detector shutdown using if statements and network variable targets, recommending the flexible combiner programming supplement as a reference.

Flexible Combiners In E3, What Are They??? , And Some Rae Corp Shenanigans Episode 541 Video12 oct. 202600:56:12

Flexible Combiners In E3, What Are They, And Some Rae Corp Shenanigans Episode 541


Flexible Combiner 101 (E2/E3): Stop Blaming the Flexie for Everything


On the Advanced Refrigeration podcast, Brett Wetzel and Kevin Compass start by troubleshooting a Raycorp CO2 skid startup where one pump won’t make differential despite drive and check-valve checks, concluding the pump is likely bad and difficult to replace due to skid framing and serviceability constraints. They then shift to a practical walkthrough of programming Copeland E2/E3/Site Supervisor “flexible combiners,” emphasizing that flexies are open applications and many tasks should use simpler sensor controls instead. They stress labeling inputs/outputs, using E3 tools like duplicate tabs for troubleshooting, lowering update time for testing, and avoiding common syntax/type errors. They demonstrate building a timer, a cut-in/cut-out fan control (including averaging sensors), and a leak-detector shutdown using if statements and network variable targets, recommending the flexible combiner programming supplement as a reference.

What Do You Want To Do Tonight Brain, Play With Carel And A Power Outage Episode 540 Audio05 oct. 202600:40:11

What Do You Want To Do Tonight Brain, Play With Carel And A Power Outage Episode 540

Target Box Misery, Flooding Charge Math, and CO₂ Controller Menus That Hate You | Advanced Refrigeration Podcast

Brett Wetzel and Kevin Compass open the Advanced Refrigeration Podcast by venting about end-of-life Target “boxes,” including finding multiple units with low-pressure switches installed on the wrong side of service valves, creating dangerous no-cutout scenarios. Brett describes building and testing a custom flooding-charge calculator using condenser data and discusses oversized condensing units and winter operation while running some quick Bitzer/Copeland-style math for a low-temp R449A freezer. The conversation shifts to CO₂ systems and a Corel compressor controller walkthrough, covering passwords, “mask number” navigation used by tech support, alarm configuration, compressor enable/disable, start types (direct, part-winding, star-delta), equalization valves, device rotation logic, VFD/inverter settings, and transcritical controls for the high-pressure valve and receiver/BGV parameters, including pre-positioning, proportional/integral behavior, and safety limits.

What Do You Want To Do Tonight Brain, Play With Carel And A Power Outage Episode 540 Video05 oct. 202600:40:11

What Do You Want To Do Tonight Brain, Play With Carel And A Power Outage Episode 540

Target Box Misery, Flooding Charge Math, and CO₂ Controller Menus That Hate You | Advanced Refrigeration Podcast

Brett Wetzel and Kevin Compass open the Advanced Refrigeration Podcast by venting about end-of-life Target “boxes,” including finding multiple units with low-pressure switches installed on the wrong side of service valves, creating dangerous no-cutout scenarios. Brett describes building and testing a custom flooding-charge calculator using condenser data and discusses oversized condensing units and winter operation while running some quick Bitzer/Copeland-style math for a low-temp R449A freezer. The conversation shifts to CO₂ systems and a Corel compressor controller walkthrough, covering passwords, “mask number” navigation used by tech support, alarm configuration, compressor enable/disable, start types (direct, part-winding, star-delta), equalization valves, device rotation logic, VFD/inverter settings, and transcritical controls for the high-pressure valve and receiver/BGV parameters, including pre-positioning, proportional/integral behavior, and safety limits.

Cold Ambient Flooded Condenser, & It's Not Time For Xmas Stuff, Brett's In Nashville Episode 539 Audio28 sept. 202600:55:12

Cold Ambient Flooded Condenser, & It's Not Time For Xmas Stuff, Brett's In Nashville Episode 539

Low Ambient Chaos: Headmasters, Flooded Condensers, and Why Your Receiver’s Screaming

On the Advanced Refrigeration Podcast, Brett Wetzel and Kevin Compas rant about stores pushing Christmas displays too early, then dive into low-ambient season nuisance calls: low receivers, liquid feed problems, and winter headaches caused by tight holdbacks, bad summer startups, and improperly set ORI/headmaster valves. They discuss standalone case-controller frustrations where settings won’t save and firmware quirks break lights and fans unless defrost times fall between midnight and 3:00 AM. The episode covers troubleshooting smoking-hot receivers and cool condensers from headmaster bypassing, proper flooded-condenser charging using Sporlan charts (and tools like an Excel calculator), and why blindly adding refrigerant can backfire—especially when condenser split/pump-out issues trap liquid. They also warn about fan-splitting controls, uneven condenser piping, rooftop suction lines condensing liquid, and Chicago “fireman’s dump” lines causing additional cold-weather problems.

Cold Ambient Flooded Condenser, & It's Not Time For Xmas Stuff, Brett's In Nashville Episode 539 Video28 sept. 202600:55:12

Cold Ambient Flooded Condenser, & It's Not Time For Xmas Stuff, Brett's In Nashville Episode 539


Low Ambient Chaos: Headmasters, Flooded Condensers, and Why Your Receiver’s Screaming

On the Advanced Refrigeration Podcast, Brett Wetzel and Kevin Compas rant about stores pushing Christmas displays too early, then dive into low-ambient season nuisance calls: low receivers, liquid feed problems, and winter headaches caused by tight holdbacks, bad summer startups, and improperly set ORI/headmaster valves. They discuss standalone case-controller frustrations where settings won’t save and firmware quirks break lights and fans unless defrost times fall between midnight and 3:00 AM. The episode covers troubleshooting smoking-hot receivers and cool condensers from headmaster bypassing, proper flooded-condenser charging using Sporlan charts (and tools like an Excel calculator), and why blindly adding refrigerant can backfire—especially when condenser split/pump-out issues trap liquid. They also warn about fan-splitting controls, uneven condenser piping, rooftop suction lines condensing liquid, and Chicago “fireman’s dump” lines causing additional cold-weather problems.

CO2 Condensing Units Whats My Interstage Pressure Supposed To Be ?? Want Some POP Episode 538 Audio21 sept. 202600:55:21

CO₂ Single Condensing Units: Relief Valves, pRack Pain, and Dorin Two‑Stage DiagnosticsBrett Wetzel and Kevin Compass open the Advanced Refrigeration Podcast joking about “pop” in the Midwest before diving into CO₂ single condensing units as Brett teaches in Minnesota and discusses an SCM Frigo unit. They compare common controllers (Carel pRack/mini PAC, Danfoss, and Copeland possibilities), complain about limited tech-friendly navigation and lack of onboard trending, and discuss pulling data via Modbus/BACnet and supervisory options like Boss Mini. Brett reviews relief valve piping after seeing popped reliefs, critiques tight packaging and reliability, and notes issues like overcharging and mismatched evaporator/valve capacity that can empty a sight glass. They walk through SCM Frigo medium-temp piping, internal heat exchange, Carel E2V-C valves, BGV function, and oil system designs, then cover a Dorin two-stage low-temp unit with floating flash tank pressure and shared plenum cooling. Brett demonstrates using Dorin software to estimate expected interstage/flash tank pressure, amperage, and temperatures to diagnose performance without relying on pump-down tests, and points to the web-based version of the tool.

CO2 Condensing Units What's My Interstage Pressure Supposed To Be ?? Want Some POP Episode 538 Video20 sept. 202600:55:21

CO₂ Single Condensing Units: Relief Valves, pRack Pain, and Dorin Two‑Stage DiagnosticsBrett Wetzel and Kevin Compass open the Advanced Refrigeration Podcast joking about “pop” in the Midwest before diving into CO₂ single condensing units as Brett teaches in Minnesota and discusses an SCM Frigo unit. They compare common controllers (Carel pRack/mini PAC, Danfoss, and Copeland possibilities), complain about limited tech-friendly navigation and lack of onboard trending, and discuss pulling data via Modbus/BACnet and supervisory options like Boss Mini. Brett reviews relief valve piping after seeing popped reliefs, critiques tight packaging and reliability, and notes issues like overcharging and mismatched evaporator/valve capacity that can empty a sight glass. They walk through SCM Frigo medium-temp piping, internal heat exchange, Carel E2V-C valves, BGV function, and oil system designs, then cover a Dorin two-stage low-temp unit with floating flash tank pressure and shared plenum cooling. Brett demonstrates using Dorin software to estimate expected interstage/flash tank pressure, amperage, and temperatures to diagnose performance without relying on pump-down tests, and points to the web-based version of the tool.

More CO2 Oil Issues, & HPV AndBGV How Far Should It Be Open, And A Pizza Review Episode 537 Video14 sept. 202600:54:04

More CO2 Oil Issues, & HPV AndBGV How Far Should It Be Open, And A Pizza Review Episode 537


Oil Gremlins, 90-Bar Racks & Why Your BGV Is Always “Wrong” | Advanced Refrigeration Podcast

Brett and Kevin kick off the Advanced Refrigeration Podcast comparing miserable travel weeks, altitude sickness, and brutal high-desert heat during transcritical CO₂ Target startups, then dive into recurring rack problems—especially oil management. They describe a common piping/design issue where the oil drain shoots straight across the oil reservoir toward the flash tank vent, sending oil into the system and back through suction, and explain a field fix by relocating/flip-flopping valves and adding access points.

They also cover repeated startup headaches (wrong DIP switches, drive wiring reversed, Belimo valve position errors, programming mistakes), discuss newer HB oil sensors and inverted digital inputs, and complain about overly complicated 0–10V solid-state relay oil controls.

Finally, they use Danfoss CoolSelector calculations to estimate proper high-pressure valve and flash gas bypass valve sizing/opening percentages and relate this to hot-gas defrost impacts, adiabatic gas cooler performance, and limited EMS permissions for forcing valves on XM/iPro controllers.


More CO2 Oil Issues, & HPV And BGV How Far Should It Be Open, And A Pizza Review Episode 53714 sept. 202600:54:04

More CO2 Oil Issues, & HPV AndBGV How Far Should It Be Open, And A Pizza Review Episode 537


Oil Gremlins, 90-Bar Racks & Why Your BGV Is Always “Wrong” | Advanced Refrigeration Podcast

Brett and Kevin kick off the Advanced Refrigeration Podcast comparing miserable travel weeks, altitude sickness, and brutal high-desert heat during transcritical CO₂ Target startups, then dive into recurring rack problems—especially oil management. They describe a common piping/design issue where the oil drain shoots straight across the oil reservoir toward the flash tank vent, sending oil into the system and back through suction, and explain a field fix by relocating/flip-flopping valves and adding access points.

They also cover repeated startup headaches (wrong DIP switches, drive wiring reversed, Belimo valve position errors, programming mistakes), discuss newer HB oil sensors and inverted digital inputs, and complain about overly complicated 0–10V solid-state relay oil controls.

Finally, they use Danfoss CoolSelector calculations to estimate proper high-pressure valve and flash gas bypass valve sizing/opening percentages and relate this to hot-gas defrost impacts, adiabatic gas cooler performance, and limited EMS permissions for forcing valves on XM/iPro controllers.

Pulling Vacuums, Removing Moisture, Bad Piping, Charging CO2, and Smoking Brisket Episode 536 Video07 sept. 202600:41:28

Vacuum Fiascos, BlueVac Hoses, and the Brisket Shift: Pulling Deep Vacuums on CO₂ Racks.

In this episode, the hosts bounce from brisket trash talk into a practical (and chaotic) deep-dive on pulling vacuums for CO₂ rack startups after a week of target store work complicated by leaks and half-finished racks. They break down their preferred setup—NAVAC NRD30/32 vacuum pumps with KF16 fittings, BlueVac hoses, and multi-hose manifolds—plus why they avoid belt-drive pumps and dislike multiple-pump setups. They cover best practices for maximizing vacuum flow, managing wet systems, and why “triple evac” is ineffective compared to using heat with continuous vacuum and oil changes, with cold traps and desiccant as alternatives. The conversation also hits moisture risks like carbonic acid damage, questionable CO₂ tank dryness, filtering practices, and the frustration of 650-psi reliefs on charging lines tied to low-rated dryer housings.

Pulling Vacuums, Removing Moisture, Bad Piping, Charging CO2, and Smoking Brisket Episode 536 Audio07 sept. 202600:41:28

Pulling Vacuums, Removing Moisture, Bad Piping, Charging CO2, and Smoking Brisket Episode 536

Vacuum Fiascos, BlueVac Hoses, and the Brisket Shift: Pulling Deep Vacuums on CO₂ Racks.

In this episode, the hosts bounce from brisket trash talk into a practical (and chaotic) deep-dive on pulling vacuums for CO₂ rack startups after a week of target store work complicated by leaks and half-finished racks. They break down their preferred setup—NAVAC NRD30/32 vacuum pumps with KF16 fittings, BlueVac hoses, and multi-hose manifolds—plus why they avoid belt-drive pumps and dislike multiple-pump setups. They cover best practices for maximizing vacuum flow, managing wet systems, and why “triple evac” is ineffective compared to using heat with continuous vacuum and oil changes, with cold traps and desiccant as alternatives. The conversation also hits moisture risks like carbonic acid damage, questionable CO₂ tank dryness, filtering practices, and the frustration of 650-psi reliefs on charging lines tied to low-rated dryer housings.

CO2 Hot Gas Defrost Causing Flood back & The Happiest Place In The World & He’s still Angry Episode 535 Audio31 août 202600:48:07

CO2 Hot Gas Defrost Causing Flood back & The Happiest Place In The World & He’s still Angry Episode 535

Rusty Cases, Wet Racks & Hot Gas Defrost Chaos (CO₂ Rack Tuning Gone Wild)

Hosts Brett Wetzel and Kevin Compass recap a hectic week on the Advanced Refrigeration Podcast, starting with widespread issues from a case manufacturer in Mexico where components arrive severely rusted or even full of water, leading to leaks, missing rack parts, long evacuation times, and concerns that contractors will rush vacuums.They also describe multiple failing case controllers that output erratic signals and drop communication.The conversation shifts to Brett’s work in Vermont teaching and troubleshooting a ZeroZone CO₂ rack hot gas defrost setup, including inlet pressure regulator and relief protection, and how an incorrectly set regulator caused flash tank turbulence, flash gas bypass over-opening, low medium-temp superheat, oil carryover, and compressor issues—especially with horizontal “laydown” flash tanks.They discuss PID tuning challenges, valve reliability, and an oil dump line piping detail that can vent oil straight out of the receiver.

CO2 Hot Gas Defrost Causing Flood back & The Happiest Place In The World & He’s still Angry Episode 535 Video31 août 202600:48:07

CO2 Hot Gas Defrost Causing Flood back & The Happiest Place In The World & He’s still Angry Episode 535 Video

Rusty Cases, Wet Racks & Hot Gas Defrost Chaos (CO₂ Rack Tuning Gone Wild)

Hosts Brett Wetzel and Kevin Compass recap a hectic week on the Advanced Refrigeration Podcast, starting with widespread issues from a case manufacturer in Mexico where components arrive severely rusted or even full of water, leading to leaks, missing rack parts, long evacuation times, and concerns that contractors will rush vacuums.They also describe multiple failing case controllers that output erratic signals and drop communication.The conversation shifts to Brett’s work in Vermont teaching and troubleshooting a ZeroZone CO₂ rack hot gas defrost setup, including inlet pressure regulator and relief protection, and how an incorrectly set regulator caused flash tank turbulence, flash gas bypass over-opening, low medium-temp superheat, oil carryover, and compressor issues—especially with horizontal “laydown” flash tanks.They discuss PID tuning challenges, valve reliability, and an oil dump line piping detail that can vent oil straight out of the receiver.

A Futuristic Litter Box, & Is My Line Size Too Small, Or Do I Have Too Much Load ?? Episode 534 Audio24 août 202600:47:26

A Futuristic Litter Box, & Is My Line Size Too Small, Or Do I Have Too Much Load ?? Episode 534


KE2 Chaos, Glycol Lockouts, and Coolselector Pipe Sizing (Plus the Fancy Litter Box Debate)

Brett Wetzel and Kevin Compass open the Advanced Refrigeration Podcast joking about an “automatic litter box” before jumping into a hectic week of glycol case startups and ongoing frustration with KE2 controllers reverting settings, freezing in defrost, and causing temperature control issues even after firmware updates that wipe settings. They discuss glycol skids hard-locking out from small pressure losses and the need to overcharge to prevent random shutdowns, then shift into a practical walkthrough of Danfoss Coolselector for transcritical CO2 piping and electronic expansion valve sizing. Using examples, they show how capacity, line length, pressure drop, and velocity change with pipe size, why winter load matters for oil return, and how oversized or over-open valves can drive excessive mass flow and pressure drop; they also cover limiting max valve opening percentage and briefly reference AKV pulse valve duty cycle behavior.

A Futuristic Litter Box, & Is My Line Size Too Small, Or Do I Have Too Much Load ?? Episode 534 Video24 août 202600:47:26

A Futuristic Litter Box, & Is My Line Size Too Small, Or Do I Have Too Much Load ?? Episode 534

KE2 Chaos, Glycol Lockouts, and Coolselector Pipe Sizing (Plus the Fancy Litter Box Debate)


Brett Wetzel and Kevin Compass open the Advanced Refrigeration Podcast joking about an “automatic litter box” before jumping into a hectic week of glycol case startups and ongoing frustration with KE2 controllers reverting settings, freezing in defrost, and causing temperature control issues even after firmware updates that wipe settings. They discuss glycol skids hard-locking out from small pressure losses and the need to overcharge to prevent random shutdowns, then shift into a practical walkthrough of Danfoss Coolselector for transcritical CO2 piping and electronic expansion valve sizing. Using examples, they show how capacity, line length, pressure drop, and velocity change with pipe size, why winter load matters for oil return, and how oversized or over-open valves can drive excessive mass flow and pressure drop; they also cover limiting max valve opening percentage and briefly reference AKV pulse valve duty cycle behavior.

We Tried Talking About Subcoolers, And Nozzles, Vermont Is Beautiful Episode 533 Audio17 août 202600:52:19

We Tried Talking About Subcoolers, And Nozzles, Vermont Is Beautiful Episode 533Storms, CO2 Chaos & Subcooler Shenanigans | Advanced Refrigeration PodcastHosts Brett Wetzel and Kevin Compass open the Advanced Refrigeration Podcast with stories from a week derailed by severe storms, power outages, and traffic caused by downed lines. Brett describes a startup nightmare at a new CO2 store: a Danfoss controller pressure-reading issue drives a rack into high-head cycling, a backup condensing unit is disabled by a tripped breaker traced to an earwig in a contactor, and the site loses charge and power while relief-valve issues persist and generator startup is delayed. They then discuss building a transcritical water-cooled condenser skid for a high-rise and criticize building condenser-water BTU billing in winter when grocery racks effectively replace boilers. The conversation shifts to basic refrigeration, focusing on mechanical subcooling benefits, TXV sizing realities, nozzle color codes, and common control mistakes involving sensors, gauge vs absolute settings, wiring errors, and strategies to prevent floodback.

We Tried Talking About Subcoolers, And Nozzles, Vermont Is Beautiful Episode 533 Video17 août 202600:52:19

We Tried Talking About Subcoolers, And Nozzles, Vermont Is Beautiful Episode 533Storms, CO2 Chaos & Subcooler Shenanigans | Advanced Refrigeration PodcastHosts Brett Wetzel and Kevin Compass open the Advanced Refrigeration Podcast with stories from a week derailed by severe storms, power outages, and traffic caused by downed lines. Brett describes a startup nightmare at a new CO2 store: a Danfoss controller pressure-reading issue drives a rack into high-head cycling, a backup condensing unit is disabled by a tripped breaker traced to an earwig in a contactor, and the site loses charge and power while relief-valve issues persist and generator startup is delayed. They then discuss building a transcritical water-cooled condenser skid for a high-rise and criticize building condenser-water BTU billing in winter when grocery racks effectively replace boilers. The conversation shifts to basic refrigeration, focusing on mechanical subcooling benefits, TXV sizing realities, nozzle color codes, and common control mistakes involving sensors, gauge vs absolute settings, wiring errors, and strategies to prevent floodback.

High Pressure Valves Diagnosing ICMTS ICAD 600A And 600d B Episode 532 Audio10 août 202600:47:00

High Pressure Valves Diagnosing ICMTS ICAD 600A And 600d B Episode 532 ICAD 600A vs 600B Deep Dive: Calibration Alarms, O-Ring Chaos, and CO₂ Rack Relief Valve Nightmares.

In this episode of the Advanced Refrigeration Podcast, hosts Brett Wetzel and Kevin Compass swap war stories from the field, including a CO₂ startup derailed by the manufacturer installing low-temp reliefs everywhere, causing charging chaos and a panicked GC threatening to call the fire department. They then dive into Danfoss ICM/ICAD troubleshooting—breaking down ICMTSC B vs C differences, how magnets help verify valve position, and how debris, missing strainers, incorrect or double O-ring setups, and moisture/rust can trigger calibration alarms. Brett demonstrates ICAD 600A wiring, analog signal setup, and feedback scaling issues, then shows ICAD 600B features like Bluetooth configuration, passwords, event logs, manual mode behavior, and Modbus options, emphasizing proper setup, alarm contacts, and disconnecting the app.

High Pressure Valves Diagnosing ICMTS ICAD 600A And 600d B Episode 53210 août 202600:46:59

High Pressure Valves Diagnosing ICMTS ICAD 600A And 600d B Episode 532

ICAD 600A vs 600B Deep Dive: Calibration Alarms, O-Ring Chaos, and CO₂ Rack Relief Valve Nightmares.

In this episode of the Advanced Refrigeration Podcast, hosts Brett Wetzel and Kevin Compass swap war stories from the field, including a CO₂ startup derailed by the manufacturer installing low-temp reliefs everywhere, causing charging chaos and a panicked GC threatening to call the fire department. They then dive into Danfoss ICM/ICAD troubleshooting—breaking down ICMTSC B vs C differences, how magnets help verify valve position, and how debris, missing strainers, incorrect or double O-ring setups, and moisture/rust can trigger calibration alarms. Brett demonstrates ICAD 600A wiring, analog signal setup, and feedback scaling issues, then shows ICAD 600B features like Bluetooth configuration, passwords, event logs, manual mode behavior, and Modbus options, emphasizing proper setup, alarm contacts, and disconnecting the app.

Danfoss Communication Issues And A West Virginia Baby Momma Episode 53103 août 202600:43:16

Danfoss Communication Issues And A West Virginia Baby Momma Episode 531CO₂ Store Startup Chaos: Danfoss Comms Troubleshooting, 880 Ethernet Headaches & Miswired TransducersIn this comedic episode of the Advanced Refrigeration Podcast, hosts Brett Wetzel and Kevin Compass jump from off-the-rails banter into the real pain of starting up a major Chicago retailer’s first CO₂ store packed with Danfoss case controllers and mixed equipment. They swap war stories about botched case wiring, backward check valves, and why scanning huge Modbus networks can be painfully slow even with limits set. Kevin shares a faster comm-troubleshooting method using resistors to quickly spot crossed loops, breaks, and hidden voltage issues, plus common headaches like case controller addresses not “taking,” app-based setup tips, and what upload vs. download means on the 880. They also cover recurring 880 Ethernet/IP glitches, DHCP reinitialize workarounds, chronic miswired Danfoss transducers and plugs, and the questionable choice of running multiple walk-in coils on a single case controller.

Danfoss Communication Issues And A West Virginia Baby Momma Episode 531 Video03 août 202600:43:16

Danfoss Communication Issues And A West Virginia Baby Momma Episode 531

CO₂ Store Startup Chaos: Danfoss Comms Troubleshooting, 880 Ethernet Headaches & Miswired Transducers


In this comedic episode of the Advanced Refrigeration Podcast, hosts Brett Wetzel and Kevin Compass jump from off-the-rails banter into the real pain of starting up a major Chicago retailer’s first CO₂ store packed with Danfoss case controllers and mixed equipment. They swap war stories about botched case wiring, backward check valves, and why scanning huge Modbus networks can be painfully slow even with limits set. Kevin shares a faster comm-troubleshooting method using resistors to quickly spot crossed loops, breaks, and hidden voltage issues, plus common headaches like case controller addresses not “taking,” app-based setup tips, and what upload vs. download means on the 880. They also cover recurring 880 Ethernet/IP glitches, DHCP reinitialize workarounds, chronic miswired Danfoss transducers and plugs, and the questionable choice of running multiple walk-in coils on a single case controller.

Carel HecU and RHEC Manager I Have No Idea But Let's Go Through IT Together Episode 529 Video27 juil. 202600:42:16

Carel HecU and RHEC Manager I Have No Idea But Let's Go Through IT Together Episode 529

Carel HECO/pRack Simulator Chaos: CO₂ Store Startup, Firmware Headaches & High-Pressure Valve Settings


In this episode of the Advanced Refrigeration Podcast, hosts Brett Wetsel and Kevin Kompus roast the brutal heat and then jump into a messy CO₂ startup at a Jewel-Osco—made worse by electricians missing neutrals on case circuits. From there, they wander into hands-on “FAFO” mode using Carel’s RHEC Manager to simulate HECO/pRack controllers, repeatedly running into freezes, blank screens, and the key gotcha: you can’t open or simulate a program unless the firmware version and required binary/CT-CD files match, and the firmware isn’t visible inside the downloaded variable list. They poke through CO₂ transcritical menus (HPV/receiver/flash tank pressures, valve behaviors, safeties), discuss tuning KP/KI on a pulse-width valve to stop it from slamming shut, and complain about proprietary MultiMAX/Pico programming, limited support, and confusing compressor staging logic, teasing a follow-up on laptop connections and navigation.



Carel HecU and RHEC Manager I Have No Idea But Let's Go Through IT Together Episode 529 Audio27 juil. 202600:42:16

Carel HECO/pRack Simulator Chaos: CO₂ Store Startup, Firmware Headaches & High-Pressure Valve Settings


In this episode of the Advanced Refrigeration Podcast, hosts Brett Wetsel and Kevin Kompus roast the brutal heat and then jump into a messy CO₂ startup at a Jewel-Osco—made worse by electricians missing neutrals on case circuits. From there, they wander into hands-on “FAFO” mode using Carel’s RHEC Manager to simulate HECO/pRack controllers, repeatedly running into freezes, blank screens, and the key gotcha: you can’t open or simulate a program unless the firmware version and required binary/CT-CD files match, and the firmware isn’t visible inside the downloaded variable list. They poke through CO₂ transcritical menus (HPV/receiver/flash tank pressures, valve behaviors, safeties), discuss tuning KP/KI on a pulse-width valve to stop it from slamming shut, and complain about proprietary MultiMAX/Pico programming, limited support, and confusing compressor staging logic, teasing a follow-up on laptop connections and navigation.

Dorin Compressor Software ,, What Can I Use It For ??? & Brett Gets A TOOF Episode 529 Audio20 juil. 202600:40:09

Dorin Compressor Software What Can I Use It For & Brett Gets A TOOF Episode 529

Dorin CO₂ App Walkthrough + Heatwave Rack Chaos (Advanced Refrigeration Podcast)

Brett Wetzel and Kevin Compass open with jokes about Brett’s new tooth causing a lisp before diving into brutal Chicagoland heat (95°F+ for two weeks) and how it’s hammering CO₂ racks, especially systems without adiabatics. Kevin describes racks struggling at peak hours, capacity gaps where a second compressor is too large, VFDs stuck at minimum, low suction, rising discharge temps, overload trips, and heavy flash gas with bypass valves 50–60% open, with gas cooler outlet temps around 97–98°F (near ambient). They discuss limited quick fixes, defrost scheduling problems, and controller wiring/programming hurdles. Brett then screen-shares a training-style walkthrough of the Dorin app for sizing and troubleshooting, entering typical inputs to estimate compressor selection, discharge temperature, amperage, and using those values diagnostically to spot issues like valve plate blow-by rather than relying on pump-down tests.

Dorin Compressor Software,, What Can I Use It For ??? & Brett Gets A TOOF Episode 529 Video20 juil. 202600:40:09

Dorin Compressor Software What Can I Use It For & Brett Gets A TOOF Episode 529 Video

Dorin CO₂ App Walkthrough + Heatwave Rack Chaos (Advanced Refrigeration Podcast)

Brett Wetzel and Kevin Compass open with jokes about Brett’s new tooth causing a lisp before diving into brutal Chicagoland heat (95°F+ for two weeks) and how it’s hammering CO₂ racks, especially systems without adiabatics. Kevin describes racks struggling at peak hours, capacity gaps where a second compressor is too large, VFDs stuck at minimum, low suction, rising discharge temps, overload trips, and heavy flash gas with bypass valves 50–60% open, with gas cooler outlet temps around 97–98°F (near ambient). They discuss limited quick fixes, defrost scheduling problems, and controller wiring/programming hurdles. Brett then screen-shares a training-style walkthrough of the Dorin app for sizing and troubleshooting, entering typical inputs to estimate compressor selection, discharge temperature, amperage, and using those values diagnostically to spot issues like valve plate blow-by rather than relying on pump-down tests.

Sporlan S3C, Comm Loops, Fireman's Dump Line, Brett's Retiring, and Noodling Episode 528 Audio13 juil. 202600:24:59

Sporlan S3C, Comm Loops, Fireman's Dump Line, Brett's Retiring, and Noodling Episode 528


Fishing Fails, Target Startup Nightmares & Chicago Fireman’s Dump Lines | Advanced Refrigeration Podcast


Brett Wetzel and Kevin Compass open with fishing stories and then jump into a rough Target CO2 startup plagued by miswired comm loops, mixed case-control hardware, and constant walking in a multi-level downtown layout. They discuss troubleshooting methods for crisscrossed MODbus wiring, common causes of shorts and opens, and an electrician mistake that blew an XM controller apart. The hosts explain Chicago’s “fireman’s dump line” code requirement and how piping it off the bottom of a suction header can trap oil and cause recurring low-oil issues. They also flag a backwards high-pressure control/relay setup on a Target backup CO2 unit, share practical tips for S3C/Corelink/CC200 case controllers, Ethernet jumpers, termination, protecting solid-state outputs, transducer orientation, and water-damaged controllers from case washing.

Sporlan S3C, Comm Loops, Fireman's Dump Line, Brett's Retiring, and Noodling Episode 528 Video13 juil. 202600:40:34

Fishing Fails, Target Startup Nightmares & Chicago Fireman’s Dump Lines | Advanced Refrigeration Podcast


Brett Wetzel and Kevin Compass open with fishing stories and then jump into a rough Target CO2 startup plagued by miswired comm loops, mixed case-control hardware, and constant walking in a multi-level downtown layout. They discuss troubleshooting methods for crisscrossed MODbus wiring, common causes of shorts and opens, and an electrician mistake that blew an XM controller apart. The hosts explain Chicago’s “fireman’s dump line” code requirement and how piping it off the bottom of a suction header can trap oil and cause recurring low-oil issues. They also flag a backwards high-pressure control/relay setup on a Target backup CO2 unit, share practical tips for S3C/Corelink/CC200 case controllers, Ethernet jumpers, termination, protecting solid-state outputs, transducer orientation, and water-damaged controllers from case washing.

E3, Pack Controller, I Pro, O my Brett Looks Like He’s From Arkansas!! Episode 527 Video06 juil. 202600:46:20

E3, Pack Controller, I Pro, O my Brett Looks Like He’s From Arkansas!! Episode 527

Post-Anesthesia Tech Tips: iPRO V5 ADF File Failures, Valve Driver Mix-Ups & Danfoss Tunneling Gotchas


Brett and Kevin kick off the Advanced Refrigeration Podcast with Brett fresh out of oral surgery and sounding “absolutely hammered,” then pivot into startup tips for new CO₂ racks using E3/E2 controllers with iPROs. They warn that many OEM programs load the wrong ADF files—using iPRO CO2 instead of the iPRO V5 ADF—causing pressures/temps to read correctly while the HPV stays at 0% and won’t open, potentially high-heading and shutting the rack down; the fix involves deleting old ADF files and fully reprogramming the application. They also cover common configuration mistakes like valve steps being “x10,” assigning valves to the wrong drivers on V5 dual-driver setups, verifying peak/holding current and step rates for Danfoss valves, checking swapped T1/T2 sensors, and adding backup network P/T sensors for redundancy. Finally, they describe Danfoss PAC/System Manager tunneling being disabled after about eight hours for security, a Danfoss controller IP-address glitch that may require toggling HTTPS/DHCP or reloading the program, and the importance of correct HTTP vs HTTPS ports when connecting remotely.

E3, Pack Controller, I Pro, O my Brett Looks Like He’s From Arkansas!! Episode 527 - Audio06 juil. 202600:46:20

E3, Pack Controller, I Pro, O my Brett Looks Like He’s From Arkansas!! Episode 527 Post-Anesthesia Tech Tips: iPRO V5 ADF File Failures, Valve Driver Mix-Ups & Danfoss Tunneling GotchasBrett and Kevin kick off the Advanced Refrigeration Podcast with Brett fresh out of oral surgery and sounding “absolutely hammered,” then pivot into startup tips for new CO₂ racks using E3/E2 controllers with iPROs. They warn that many OEM programs load the wrong ADF files—using iPRO CO2 instead of the iPRO V5 ADF—causing pressures/temps to read correctly while the HPV stays at 0% and won’t open, potentially high-heading and shutting the rack down; the fix involves deleting old ADF files and fully reprogramming the application. They also cover common configuration mistakes like valve steps being “x10,” assigning valves to the wrong drivers on V5 dual-driver setups, verifying peak/holding current and step rates for Danfoss valves, checking swapped T1/T2 sensors, and adding backup network P/T sensors for redundancy. Finally, they describe Danfoss PAC/System Manager tunneling being disabled after about eight hours for security, a Danfoss controller IP-address glitch that may require toggling HTTPS/DHCP or reloading the program, and the importance of correct HTTP vs HTTPS ports when connecting remotely.

Electricians, CO2 Hot Gas Defrost, Danfoss EKE400 &  Parts Changing Process Of Elimination?- Episode-526 Audio29 juin 202600:49:20

Target Startup Chaos, Buggy CoreLinks, andDanfoss EKE400/ICAD Headaches | Advanced Refrigeration Podcast

Brett and Kevin open the AdvancedRefrigeration Podcast after a brutal week, with Brett stuck on a transcritical Kevinwith a  startup at a poorly designed downtown store wherethe E3 and roof access are far from the grocery and the rack is on the roof. Heblames electricians for mis-marked and mixed-up comm lines, missingcontrol-power splices, and dangerous live voltages, turning a “simple” startupinto days of rework. They also vent about painfully slow, buggy CoreLinksetup and web UI issues compared to smoother E3 terminal mode. Kevin then walksthrough using a Danfoss EKE400 in CoolConfig for defrost and reheat control, MMRGdisplay jumper/address quirks, Modbus connection ideas, and generating wiringdiagrams. They finish with ICAD failures, O-ring moisture/rust problems, andsolving calibration alarms via process-of-elimination part swapping.

Electricians, CO2 Hot Gas Defrost, Danfoss EKE400 &  Parts Changing Process Of Elimination?- Episode-526 video29 juin 202600:49:20

Target Startup Chaos, Buggy CoreLinks, andDanfoss EKE400/ICAD Headaches | Advanced Refrigeration Podcast

Brett and Kevin open the AdvancedRefrigeration Podcast after a brutal week, with Brett stuck on a transcritical Kevinwith a  startup at a poorly designed downtown store wherethe E3 and roof access are far from the grocery and the rack is on the roof. Heblames electricians for mis-marked and mixed-up comm lines, missingcontrol-power splices, and dangerous live voltages, turning a “simple” startupinto days of rework. They also vent about painfully slow, buggy CoreLinksetup and web UI issues compared to smoother E3 terminal mode. Kevin then walksthrough using a Danfoss EKE400 in CoolConfig for defrost and reheat control, MMRGdisplay jumper/address quirks, Modbus connection ideas, and generating wiringdiagrams. They finish with ICAD failures, O-ring moisture/rust problems, andsolving calibration alarms via process-of-elimination part swapping.

USA VS Canada Training, And A 3 Time Gold Medalist, For Refrigeration ??? - Episode-525 Audio22 juin 202600:42:20

Skills Canada Gold, Rack Life inNewfoundland, and the Great Apprenticeship Debate |


Advanced Refrigeration Podcast In this episode of the Advanced Refrigeration Podcast, hosts Brett Wetzel and Kevin Compass welcome Devon Owens from Newfoundland, a three-time Skills Canada gold medalist, to talk shop andtrade some laughs. Devon breaks down Skills Canada—provincials, nationals, and worlds—plus the intense 15-hour two-day refrigeration build he finished as theonly competitor, featuring a two-evaporator, two-temperature system with EPRs, solenoids, transducers, a superheat controller, and an EEV. The conversationshifts to how Canadian apprenticeship schooling differs from U.S. union training, including unpaid full-time pre- eployment, block exams, pay-scale progression, and a challenging 125-question journeyman exam that spans everything from CO2 and ammonia to natural gas. They also touch on rack work,CO2 sites in Newfoundland, 600V power, and why water leaks can ruin your day.

USA VS Canada Training, And A 3 Time Gold Medalist, For Refrigeration ??? - Episode-525 Video22 juin 202600:42:20

Skills Canada Gold, Rack Life in Newfoundland, and the Great Apprenticeship Debate


Advanced Refrigeration Podcast In this episode of the Advanced Refrigeration Podcast, hosts Brett Wetzel and Kevin Compass welcome Devon Owens from Newfoundland, a three-time Skills Canada gold medalist, to talk shop and trade some laughs. Devon breaks down Skills Canada—provincials, nationals, and worlds—plus the intense 15-hour two-day refrigeration build he finished as the only competitor, featuring a two-evaporator, two-temperature system with EPRs, solenoids, transducers, a superheat controller, and an EEV. The conversation shifts to how Canadian apprenticeship schooling differs from U.S. union training, including unpaid full-time pre-employment, block exams, pay-scale progression, and a challenging 125-question journeyman exam that spans everything from CO2 and ammonia to natural gas. They also touch on rack work, CO2 sites in Newfoundland, 600V power, and why water leaks can ruin your day.

Parallel Compression, Oil System Differences & Brett's Flat in Bat Country - Episode-524 Audio15 juin 202600:41:00

Parallel Compression, Oil System Differences & Brett's Flat in Bat Country - Episode-524

Hotel Wi‑Fi, Flat Tires & Parallel Compression Chaos | Advanced Refrigeration Podcast

Brett Wetzel and Kevin Dumpless kick off this episode from a wildly bright SpringHill Suites in Fort Worth after travel chaos, traffic frustration, and a flat tire that dropped pressure to zero in record time. From there, they jump into real-world rack work: long weeks on a rack change-out, frustrations with manufacturers leaving no room for core pullers on EPRs/A8 valves, and the familiar pain of electrical contractors who don’t read prints. Kevin walks through a parallel compression CO₂ startup, including staging issues tied to flash gas bypass valve capacity, oil reservoir differential problems, and how a weighted check valve maintains oil flow when flash tank pressures rise. They compare oil separator strategies, discuss ICAD reliability versus steppers, and highlight a dock reheat/dehumidification setup using defrost return gas and controls.

Parallel Compression, Oil System Differences & Brett's Flat in Bat Country - Episode-524 Video15 juin 202600:41:00

Parallel Compression, Oil System Differences & Brett's Flat in Bat Country - Episode-524 Video

Hotel Wi‑Fi, Flat Tires & Parallel Compression Chaos | Advanced Refrigeration Podcast

Brett Wetzel and Kevin Dumpless kick off this episode from a wildly bright SpringHill Suites in Fort Worth after travel chaos, traffic frustration, and a flat tire that dropped pressure to zero in record time. From there, they jump into real-world rack work: long weeks on a rack change-out, frustrations with manufacturers leaving no room for core pullers on EPRs/A8 valves, and the familiar pain of electrical contractors who don’t read prints. Kevin walks through a parallel compression CO₂ startup, including staging issues tied to flash gas bypass valve capacity, oil reservoir differential problems, and how a weighted check valve maintains oil flow when flash tank pressures rise. They compare oil separator strategies, discuss ICAD reliability versus steppers, and highlight a dock reheat/dehumidification setup using defrost return gas and controls.

Changing Racks, Shooting The Sh$T, & I Got Screeched With A Gold Medalist in Newfoundland Episode-52308 juin 202600:39:43

Changing Racks Shooting The Sh$T & I Got Screeched With A Gold Medalist in NewFoundLand Episode-523

Newfoundland Time, 43-Year-Old Hill Racks, and CO2 Mini Packs Gone Wild | Advanced Refrigeration Podcast

Brett and Kevin open the Advanced Refrigeration Podcast with travel chaos and stories from Brett’s Newfoundland training trip, including sightseeing, getting “screeched in,” and learning about the 2 and a half-hour time zone. Kevin contrasts with a rough week changing out 43-year-old Hill racks for new Hussmann racks, dealing with tight valve layouts, vacuum work, reused refrigerant, and major electrical/control complications in an old store with fuse buckets. They explain what Atron surge receivers are, why they fail, and common retrofit approaches. The conversation shifts to small Walmart CO2 “baby” racks and common field issues: critical charging challenges with heavy tanks, relief valves popping due to 650-psi-rated filter driers, problematic relief piping requirements, and the need for better high-pressure serviceable solutions. They close by teasing a deeper future episode on these single CO2 units and their controllers.

Changing Racks Shooting The Sh$T & I Got Screeched With A Gold Medalist in NewFoundLand Episode-52308 juin 202600:39:43

Newfoundland Time, 43-Year-Old Hill Racks, and CO2 Mini Packs Gone Wild | Advanced Refrigeration Podcast

Brett and Kevin open the Advanced Refrigeration Podcast with travel chaos and stories from Brett’s Newfoundland training trip, including sightseeing, getting “screeched in,” and learning about the 2 and a half-hour time zone. Kevin contrasts with a rough week changing out 43-year-old Hill racks for new Hussmann racks, dealing with tight valve layouts, vacuum work, reused refrigerant, and major electrical/control complications in an old store with fuse buckets. They explain what Atron surge receivers are, why they fail, and common retrofit approaches. The conversation shifts to small Walmart CO2 “baby” racks and common field issues: critical charging challenges with heavy tanks, relief valves popping due to 650-psi-rated filter driers, problematic relief piping requirements, and the need for better high-pressure serviceable solutions. They close by teasing a deeper future episode on these single CO2 units and their controllers.

VFD and Controller Settings Does It Matter ??? And Kevin Loves His Neighbors Episode - 522 Audio01 juin 202600:37:48

VFD and Controller Settings Does It Matter ??? And Kevin Loves His Neighbors Episode - 522Stop the VFD Hunt: Fixing 0–10V Scaling, Ramps, and Skip Frequencies (Advanced Refrigeration Podcast)Brett Wetzel and Kevin Compass kick off the Advanced Refrigeration Podcast with early-morning chaos, then dive into a common rack problem: VFD and controller settings that don’t match, causing suction oscillation and valve hunting. Using an E3/E2-style controller and a Danfoss drive example, they explain correcting the 0–10V analog output scaling so the drive responds immediately (often setting the low end to about 5V and matching minimum reference), aligning minimum/maximum references and speed limits (e.g., typical low-speed limits around 28–30 Hz and high limits around 60 Hz), and avoiding overly aggressive ramp rates that worsen overshoot. They also discuss using skip/bypass frequencies to eliminate resonance that shakes racks, breaks clamps, and damages piping, noting common troublesome ranges seen on certain compressors.

VFD and Controller Settings Does It Matter ??? And Kevin Loves His Neighbors Episode - 522 Video01 juin 202600:37:48

VFD and Controller Settings Does It Matter ??? And Kevin Loves His Neighbors Episode - 522


Stop the VFD Hunt: Fixing 0–10V Scaling, Ramps, and Skip Frequencies (Advanced Refrigeration Podcast)


Brett Wetzel and Kevin Compass kick off the Advanced Refrigeration Podcast with early-morning chaos, then dive into a common rack problem: VFD and controller settings that don’t match, causing suction oscillation and valve hunting. Using an E3/E2-style controller and a Danfoss drive example, they explain correcting the 0–10V analog output scaling so the drive responds immediately (often setting the low end to about 5V and matching minimum reference), aligning minimum/maximum references and speed limits (e.g., typical low-speed limits around 28–30 Hz and high limits around 60 Hz), and avoiding overly aggressive ramp rates that worsen overshoot. They also discuss using skip/bypass frequencies to eliminate resonance that shakes racks, breaks clamps, and damages piping, noting common troublesome ranges seen on certain compressors.

TekLab TK4 Compressor Oil Level Control, Kevin's in Georgia??--- Episode 521 Audio25 mai 202600:38:57

TekLab TK4 Compressor Oil Level Control, Kevin's in Georgia??--- Episode 521

TechLab TK4 Oil Level Controls: Dongles, Alarms, and Why “Limit Injections” Can Kill a Rack


Brett and Kevin swap war stories from a sweltering Georgia service call where Kevin quickly solves a persistent comm issue caused by a fallen rod rubbing through and shorting a comm wire, while also noticing a dangerously supported main water line. Back home, they dig into TechLab oil level controls (TK4/TK1), rant about hard-to-find manufacturer documentation, and walk through setting up the Bluetooth dongle/software to communicate, view status, and manually cycle the solenoid to watch oil-fill timing. They highlight how the “limit injections” setting can stop refilling during an alarm and shut down a rack, discuss injection/monitoring timing tradeoffs for low vs. medium temp systems, and note the pressure differential setting doesn’t appear to change timing automatically. They compare TechLab favorably to Kriwan, show teardown observations, and joke about laptops, metric screws, and oil-shower failures.

TekLab TK4 Compressor Oil Level Control, Kevin's in Georgia??--- Episode 521 - Video25 mai 202600:38:57

TekLab TK4 Compressor Oil Level Control, Kevin's in Georgia??--- Episode 521

TechLab TK4 Oil Level Controls: Dongles, Alarms, and Why “Limit Injections” Can Kill a Rack


Brett and Kevin swap war stories from a sweltering Georgia service call where Kevin quickly solves a persistent comm issue caused by a fallen rod rubbing through and shorting a comm wire, while also noticing a dangerously supported main water line. Back home, they dig into TechLab oil level controls (TK4/TK1), rant about hard-to-find manufacturer documentation, and walk through setting up the Bluetooth dongle/software to communicate, view status, and manually cycle the solenoid to watch oil-fill timing. They highlight how the “limit injections” setting can stop refilling during an alarm and shut down a rack, discuss injection/monitoring timing tradeoffs for low vs. medium temp systems, and note the pressure differential setting doesn’t appear to change timing automatically. They compare TechLab favorably to Kriwan, show teardown observations, and joke about laptops, metric screws, and oil-shower failures.

CO2 LMP Racks Hot Gas & What The Heck Is A DTR Valve ?? Episode 520 Audio18 mai 202600:42:17

LMP Rack Deep Dive: Hot Gas Defrost, Superheat Mitigation & Refrigeration “Witchcraft”


Brett Wetzel and Kevin Compass kick off the Advanced Refrigeration Podcast with weekend plans and a chaotic start featuring mystery music and van-recorded audio, then jump into Kevin’s hectic week swapping out 40-year-old racks and venting about painfully unserviceable EPR and valve layouts while converting controls from CPC to Danfoss. Brett outlines a common VFD control issue where a 0–100% signal causes deadband, aggressive ramping, and cycling, teeing up a future demo with virtual displays. The main discussion breaks down an LMP rack P&ID with heat reclaim, low-temp hot gas defrost, suction setpoints, superheat mitigation via inversely controlled valves and plate heat exchangers, discharge pressure regulation and staged valve reopening after defrost, load shedding, oil separation strategy, and auxiliary heat exchanger quirks, then detours into cool gas defrost debate and a cutaway look at a Venturi-style “injector” device used to cool discharge gas.

CO2 LMP Racks Hot Gas & What The Heck Is A DTR Valve ?? Episode 520 Video18 mai 202600:42:17

CO2 LMP Racks Hot Gas & What The Heck Is A DTR Valve ?? Episode 520 Video

LMP Rack Deep Dive: Hot Gas Defrost, Superheat Mitigation & Refrigeration “Witchcraft”


Brett Wetzel and Kevin Compass kick off the Advanced Refrigeration Podcast with weekend plans and a chaotic start featuring mystery music and van-recorded audio, then jump into Kevin’s hectic week swapping out 40-year-old racks and venting about painfully unserviceable EPR and valve layouts while converting controls from CPC to Danfoss. Brett outlines a common VFD control issue where a 0–100% signal causes deadband, aggressive ramping, and cycling, teeing up a future demo with virtual displays. The main discussion breaks down an LMP rack P&ID with heat reclaim, low-temp hot gas defrost, suction setpoints, superheat mitigation via inversely controlled valves and plate heat exchangers, discharge pressure regulation and staged valve reopening after defrost, load shedding, oil separation strategy, and auxiliary heat exchanger quirks, then detours into cool gas defrost debate and a cutaway look at a Venturi-style “injector” device used to cool discharge gas.

Danfoss Mini Pack Controller Overview PC572, Its Friday back from Jersey Episode 519 Video 11 mai 202600:43:30

Danfoss Mini Pack Controller Overview PC572, Its Friday back from Jersey Episode 519

Mini Pack Controller Deep Dive (PC572 + AK-PT50): CO₂ Condensing Unit Controls, Gateways, and Headaches


Brett and Kevin open the Advanced Refrigeration Podcast with Kevin driving across multiple states after an unexpectedly expensive hotel stay near Springfield, Illinois. Brett gives a brief, hands-on overview of a Danfoss Mini Pack controller (PC572) used on newer single CO₂ condensing units, explaining that programming requires the AK-PT50 Windows software plus a Danfoss gateway and a data-capable micro USB cable. He walks through connecting, uploading, and navigating key menus for plant type, suction groups, compressor/VFD settings (including start speed logic), gas cooler and receiver pressure controls, oil control options, alarms, I/O configuration, and expansion modules needed for missing sensors/outputs. They note unit settings are largely in Celsius/Kelvin, warn not to program Danfoss VFDs with a laptop plugged into wall power, and conclude that these compact condensing units are cramped and would benefit from phone-accessible tools.

Danfoss Mini Pack Controller Overview PC572, Its Friday back from Jersey Episode 519 Audio11 mai 202600:43:30

Danfoss Mini Pack Controller Overveiw PC572, Its Friday back from Jersey Episode 519 Mini Pack Controller Deep Dive (PC572 + AK-PT50): CO₂ Condensing Unit Controls, Gateways, and HeadachesBrett and Kevin open the Advanced Refrigeration Podcast with Kevin driving across multiple states after an unexpectedly expensive hotel stay near Springfield, Illinois. Brett gives a brief, hands-on overview of a Danfoss Mini Pack controller (PC572) used on newer single CO₂ condensing units, explaining that programming requires the AK-PT50 Windows software plus a Danfoss gateway and a data-capable micro USB cable. He walks through connecting, uploading, and navigating key menus for plant type, suction groups, compressor/VFD settings (including start speed logic), gas cooler and receiver pressure controls, oil control options, alarms, I/O configuration, and expansion modules needed for missing sensors/outputs. They note unit settings are largely in Celsius/Kelvin, warn not to program Danfoss VFDs with a laptop plugged into wall power, and conclude that these compact condensing units are cramped and would benefit from phone-accessible tools.

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