Mexico. Member-only retail locations have experienced an increase in foot traffic due to the pandemic, especially in their frozen and refrigerated food sections. This was no exception for a global price club retailer with more than 750 locations, 39 of which are in Mexico.
The organization recognized early on that this increase in customer purchases required attention at three of its locations in Mexico. The decision was made to expand the current cooling systems and install improved equipment in these three key locations while remaining open to the public, which represented a major challenge. The technical group of this chain of price clubs previously obtained excellent results in similar situations by using ArmaFlex products for major copper refrigeration lines in US locations, so they wanted repeated results in these locations.
Hillphoenix, a manufacturer of showcases and commercial refrigeration systems, installed the new refrigerator and freezer sections. Their trained installers were responsible for integrating the new systems with the existing equipment, which included various types of equipment brands, lines, and the most reliable insulation materials. The key goal was not to disrupt business operations or customers during upgrade and installation, while maintaining a clean workspace for the project.
The Hillphoenix team felt very comfortable installing ArmaFlex insulation on the refrigerated lines, compressors, compressor racks, panels, valves and pipes of this project. Avoiding dust buildup during ArmaFlex installation alleviated contractors' concerns, as customers were able to shop in a clean environment without interruption. Another key feature that was required in the product options of the mechanical system was flexibility, the particularity that the insulation tube could be easily slid over the cooling lines.
Rigid insulation foams would not meet the project schedule due to longer installation periods, and also had the risk of generating dust. The chain has decided to include ArmaFlex products as part of the regular specifications for its new and improved cooling lines in the future due to the great success.
Value Specification
Energy efficiency is of vital importance as cooled systems must operate at peak performance, which means they require proper insulation. Armacell insulation systems are ideal for isolating miles of liquid and suction lines, ice water pipes, chillers and cooling tanks.
The insulation of pipes, cooling lines or refrigeration equipment not only promotes energy efficiency, but also prevents condensation on surfaces with a temperature below the ambient, a critical problem for this industry. Specifying Armacell's Supermarket Solutions is prudent for supermarkets, grocery stores, and cold food distribution points, as they offer two levels of insulation packages, each designed to meet codes, system performance, and budget, making specification easier.
These products are always fiber-free, formaldehyde-free and low in VOCs, making them an excellent choice for any environment. Its closed-cell structure also prevents moisture from entering and naturally resists mold and mildew growth. ArmaFlex tubular pipe insulation comes in many sizes and thicknesses from 3/8" to 2" to suit various weather temperatures and humidity levels, making it an excellent choice for sustainable systems around the world.
