REFRIGERATOR TECHNICIAN 63 64 4. Refrigeration Mechanics Perform Preventative Maintenance and Repair Food processing facilities need to have the peace of mind to know that their fridge and freezer systems are always working. The failure of these systems can result in costly expenses and extensive food wastage. To prevent such scenarios, facilities implement regular maintenance programs known as preventative maintenance programs. During these scheduled maintenance sessions, refrigeration mechanics undertake various crucial tasks, including: • Checking the seals of refrigerator doors and lubricating hinges • Cleaning condenser coils, fan blades, drain lines • Monitoring refrigeration system performance • Repairing and broken parts • Flushing acid and descaling water circuits 5. Refrigeration Mechanics Perform Troubleshooting Repairs As previously mentioned, refrigeration mechanics often encounter maintenance issues, which can be critical in a food processing facility. Some of the most common problems experienced with industrial refrigeration systems include: • Excessive build-up • Power issues • Mechanically locked compressors When issues arise, refrigeration mechanics must engage in a systematic troubleshooting process to identify and resolve the problem. This troubleshooting process consists of the following steps: • Identify the problem. • Gather relevant data. • Analyze the collected data. • Develop potential solutions. • Implement the chosen solution. • Test the solution to ensure effectiveness! 6. Refrigerator Mechanics Understand Power, Electrical and PLC Controls Refrigeration system controls are specialized products designed to automatically optimize operating temperatures, fan speeds, and pressures within large-scale commercial refrigeration systems. Their primary goal is to minimize energy consumption while ensuring that the refrigerated spaces or equipment remain within predefined temperature limits. Commercial refrigeration systems are significantly larger and more complex than household refrigerators, often featuring microprocessor-based electronics. These systems house various electrical components, including compressors, pressure switches, thermostats, fans, and control valves. Refrigeration mechanics know how to apply Ohm’s and Watt’s laws for interpreting electrical calculations and troubleshooting electrical boards. Additionally, they excel in troubleshooting control systems that incorporate electrical components such as relays, timers, motor starters, and controls. 7. Refrigeration Mechanics Have a Mechanical Aptitude, Manual Dexterity and Interpersonal Skills Being a refrigeration mechanic requires a wide range of skills. However, there are a few which are more essential than others. These skills include: • Mechanical Aptitude: Refrigeration mechanics must possess mechanical aptitude, which entails a deep understanding of fundamental mechanical principles, including sound, heat conduction, velocity, gravity, and force. This comprehensive knowledge is essential because refrigeration systems involve these concepts intricately, making it a fundamental requirement for mechanics. • Manual Dexterity: Refrigeration mechanics require strong manual dexterity to handle small parts and make precise adjustments within refrigeration systems. Their ability to work in confined spaces further emphasizes the need for skillful and precise handwork. Ensuring the optimal functionality of these systems relies on their steady and careful manipulation of components • Interpersonal Skills: While refrigeration mechanics may often work independently, their role also requires collaboration with various departments, including production and logistics staff. Furthermore, they need to coordinate closely with fellow members of their maintenance teams. Effective communication is crucial in this context, as they must convey information clearly and concisely. Building and maintaining positive working relationships is equally important to ensure the smooth and efficient progress of tasks and projects. CareersInFood.com After you have decided what program(s) you want to take in school after high school, how do you decide what school and campus are right for you? Once you have heard back from the school’s you have applied to, whether good news or not, it’s time to make a decision. The following tips can help you make a tough, yet exciting decision: Revisit top choices. Did you get accepted to more than one of your top choices? If so, think back to why you applied to each choice, and why is it that they are your top choices? Having a note pad and pen can help with this step – off the top of your head, why do these school’s stand out? Priorities. With your note pad in hand, make a list of pros and cons for each school you have been accepted to. Some examples of things to cover in your list include the size of school, strength of the program you applied to, services offered on campus, and living arrangements. Return to campus. Although you may have visited the campus earlier on, it isn’t a bad idea to revisit the schools you are considering attending. This time, see if you can schedule a one-on-one meeting with faculty of the program you have been accepted to, or a senior student. Prepare a list of questions and refresh your memory. What is your end goal? Why are you going away to school? What is your long term career goal? Although your long term career goal may be uncertain, ask yourself what you hope to get out of going to university. If you want to pursue a career in science, choosing a school with a strong science program and facilities should be important. If you are leaning towards a career path in marketing, you will want to do your research on schools with superior marketing programs. Don’t forget to consider co-op or internship placements when looking into schools, these can be great opportunities to gain some hands on experience. Placement stats. What is the placement rate of graduates from this school, specifically the program you are interested in? While looking into employment after graduation, also look into the career services department. Does this school offer industry specific job fairs, career counselling and on-campus interviews? You may find that some schools offer more help to students after graduation than others. Finding the right school for you can involve a great deal of work. Although going off to university is an exciting time, finding the right school for you is a big decision. 1 2 3 4 5 Tips for Picking the Right University 5
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