Ice arena on the site of the Rossiya cinema

Ice Arena on the site of the Rossiya Cinema: New Opportunities for the Industrial Refrigeration Industry

On Lenin Avenue in Nizhny Novgorod, a large-scale construction project is about to unfold, transforming the area's appearance. The former Rossiya Cinema is set to be replaced by a modern residential building, and most importantly, a long-awaited ice arena. This project is undoubtedly a significant event for the city, opening up new opportunities for sports and leisure activities. However, in addition to its social and cultural implications, the construction of the ice arena also carries significant economic implications, particularly for companies specializing in industrial refrigeration equipment.

The construction of an ice arena is a complex technological process that requires the use of specialized equipment to maintain a stable ice temperature, ensure its quality, and prolong its lifespan. As a result, the demand for industrial refrigeration equipment has significantly increased, creating favorable conditions for the development and growth of relevant companies. What specific types of equipment will be required for this project?

Ammonia refrigeration units (AHU):

Ammonia refrigeration units are one of the most common solutions for creating artificial ice in large arenas. Ammonia (NH3) is an effective refrigerant that provides high cold capacity and energy efficiency.

• Specifications: The capacity of an ice arena AHU can range from hundreds of kilowatts to several megawatts, depending on the size of the ice rink and the temperature requirements. Two-stage compressor systems are commonly used to achieve higher efficiency at low temperatures.
• Functions and application: AHU provides cooling of the coolant (usually an aqueous glycol solution), which is circulated through the pipes located under the ice slab. This allows for the removal of heat from the ice and the maintenance of its temperature at -5…-8°C.
• Advantages: High energy efficiency, environmental friendliness (ammonia is a natural refrigerant), and long service life.
• Disadvantages: Require strict adherence to safety regulations due to the toxicity of ammonia, and require qualified maintenance personnel.

Chillers:

Chillers are refrigeration machines designed to cool liquid (water or glycol). They can be used both as a component of an air conditioning unit and independently, especially in cases where the use of ammonia is undesirable.

• Specifications: The cooling capacity of ice arena chillers can reach hundreds of kilowatts. Freon refrigerants (e.g. R134a, R407C, R410A) or natural refrigerants (e.g. propane, CO2) can be used as refrigerants.
• Functions and Applications: Cooling of the coolant circulating under the ice slab, as well as providing cold for the ventilation and air conditioning systems in the arena building.
• Advantages: Easy operation, relatively low cost (compared to AHU), and the ability to use various refrigerants.
• Disadvantages: Less energy-efficient than AHUs, and some refrigerants (freons) have a negative impact on the environment.

Automated control and monitoring systems:

Modern ice arenas are equipped with sophisticated automated control and monitoring systems that ensure optimal operation of refrigeration equipment and allow for the monitoring of all parameters that affect ice quality.

• Functions and applications: Automatic ice temperature control, monitoring of compressors, pumps, and fans, monitoring of electricity consumption, and warning of possible malfunctions.
• Benefits: Reduced energy costs, increased equipment reliability, improved ice quality, and reduced risk of accidents.

Mobile refrigeration units:

During the operation of an ice arena, there may be situations where temporary increases in refrigeration capacity are required (for example, during preparation for competitions) or where repairs to the main refrigeration equipment are necessary. In these cases, mobile refrigeration units are indispensable.

• Specifications: Mobile units can have different cooling capacities (from several tens to hundreds of kilowatts) and use different types of refrigerants.
• Functions and applications: Providing temporary cooling, maintaining ice temperature during main equipment repairs, and using it as a backup cold source.

Thus, the construction of an ice arena on the site of the Rossiya cinema opens up new opportunities for companies engaged in the design, supply, installation, and maintenance of industrial refrigeration equipment. The competitiveness of these companies will be determined not only by the price, but also by the quality of their solutions, the energy efficiency of their equipment, the reliability of their service, and their willingness to adopt innovative technologies. Ultimately, the successful implementation of this project will stimulate the development of the entire industrial refrigeration industry in the region.