Refrigerator Technician OPERATIONS/PRODUCTION/ SKILLED TRADES REFRIGERATOR TECHNICIAN The use of fridges and freezers plays a pivotal role in food processing. Without a reliable cooling method, beloved products such as ice cream and sauces would not be possible! However, it’s essential to understand that refrigeration goes beyond simply keeping items cold; it also guarantees the quality and safety of our food. Keeping food cold between 0°C and 8°C helps keep food fresh and slow down microbial growth. Alternatively, freezing slows bacteria growth, preventing food deterioration. As an essential component of the food processing industry, with many products relying on refrigeration, there is a need for skilled mechanics who can repair these systems. Given the specialized nature of this trade, it’s not a job for just anyone. Those entrusted with this role are known as refrigeration mechanics, and they play a vital role in ensuring the smooth operation of our world. 1. Refrigeration Mechanics Ensure That Refrigeration Works at Food Processing Facilities Refrigeration mechanics are responsible for ensuring the functionality of refrigeration systems in food processing facilities. They leverage their strong understanding of industrial refrigeration systems and the underlying physical principles that govern them. This knowledge empowers them to perform electrical calculations, interpret electrical drawings, and troubleshoot control systems effectively. One of the primary responsibilities of refrigeration mechanics is the execution of preventative maintenance programs. This involves meticulously inspecting and cleaning various components within refrigeration systems, including seals, coils, and fan blades. By continuously monitoring system performance and promptly addressing any issues, they help minimize the risk of equipment failures, which could lead to substantial expenses and food losses. Furthermore, refrigeration mechanics excel in troubleshooting unexpected problems, such as excessive build-up, power irregularities, or malfunctioning compressors, employing a systematic approach to identify, analyze, and resolve these issues efficiently. 2. Refrigeration Mechanics Install Fridge Systems Into Food Processing Facilities As food facilities expand, the need for new equipment, such as refrigeration systems, becomes inevitable. In this process, refrigeration mechanics are crucial in guiding purchasing decisions. They contribute to space planning and layout for efficient placement when establishing new refrigeration setups. Additionally, they handle the setup and dismantling of equipment. Once the equipment is selected and the layout is planned, refrigeration mechanics assist in its installation. Commercial refrigeration systems are vital in transferring heat from inside the fridge to a refrigerant liquid, requiring careful integration into the building’s infrastructure. It’s important to note that commercial refrigerators are larger and more complex than typical household units that can be simply plugged in. Therefore, these factors must be carefully considered when creating and planning the installation of new refrigeration systems. 3. Refrigeration Mechanic/Technician Are Certified The education required to become a certified refrigeration mechanic depends on your province or state. In Canada, you must complete secondary school and obtain an apprenticeship. An apprenticeship typically involves on-the-job training under the supervision of experienced refrigeration mechanics or mentors. During this apprenticeship period, aspiring refrigeration mechanics gain practical experience and knowledge about various aspects of the trade, including system installation, maintenance, troubleshooting, and safety procedures. According to the Registrar of Skilled Trades Ontario, as of 2021 the set hours of apprenticeship training for the trade of Refrigeration and Air Conditioning Systems Mechanic at 9000 hours (approximately five years), which consists of 8280 hours of on-the-job work experience and 720 hours of in-school training. Refrigerator Technician Maintaining and repairing refrigeration systems Photo by romaset/stock.adobecom 62
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