Do-it-yourself gas refrigerator: the principle of operation of a propane refrigerator + an example of homemade assembly

Advantages of a factory and homemade device

Before the independent production of an air compressor from a refrigerator, it is necessary to compare it with a conventional factory sample. This will help you make the right decision.

Factory and homemade devices have the following differences:

The factory device has an electric motor that turns the elements of the box directly through the belts, in contrast to the home-made sample, which consists only of an engine and a box without belts.
The factory model already included and installed all the additional "gadgets" and parts, such as filters, automatic adjustment and pressure relief system. With self-assembly, all elements have to be installed on their own, taking into account the design features.
Although most of all factory-made devices have an automatic pressure control system, it is not available in budget models. Thus, such devices must be turned off on their own and constantly monitor the time. By making the compressor yourself, you can install a protective relay that will turn off the engine when it overheats.
Some devices do not have any lubrication. Basically, these are also cheap models. Because of this, they do not have enough engine power, but there are no exhausts.

This is important when using the compressor for painting purposes. Sometimes the paint injection device does not tolerate any impurities and additives in the paint very well.

And they will be if the motor is too lubricated
You also need to pay attention to the oil that lubricates the motor: synthetics, semi-synthetics or mineral water.
The main advantage of a homemade device is the silence in its operation. Especially if you put on all the tubes correctly and tightly
If we talk about factory compressors, they are noisier, so they can only be used outside the home.
The cost of self-assembly will be very low, since all parts can be taken from an old refrigerator and other equipment, and all other adjustment elements will cost a maximum of 1000 rubles. The factory compressor will cost a large amount.Everything, of course, depends on the model, but even the cheapest one will cost several times more than a home-made one.
It is impossible to make adjustments to the purchased unit. For example, if the pump does not have enough power, then it can only be used to inflate car tires. For other purposes, such as painting, it is not suitable. On the other hand, home-made models can be equipped with additional parts, for example, a receiver, due to which the power of the device will be great.
The factory unit is a complete device, so any intervention in its operation is unacceptable. With a homemade design, you can improvise. Complement it, display certain details outside or hide them in a box. On top, you can mount a handle for transportation.
A homemade device can be equipped with an additional fan on the outside to cool the structure.

How gas refrigerators work

A heating element is installed inside the unit. It can provide power supply. At the bottom is a fitting for connecting to a gas cylinder. Heat exchange occurs due to the lattice, which is visible from behind.

The unit is powered by a propane tank connected to it. On average, one bottle is enough for a month of use. Outwardly, such models are similar to ordinary refrigerators. In addition, they maintain the same temperature, equal to +2 to + 4 degrees in the refrigerator compartment and from -15 to -5 degrees in the freezer.

The boiling point of ammonia is lower than the boiling point of water. This leads to the process of evaporation of concentrated ammonia vapors, they pass through the heat exchanger, condenser and evaporator. After leaving the evaporator, the vapors meet with the absorbent and are cooled.The circulation of the solution occurs in a continuous mode.

Structural elements:

• Generator;
• Heater;
• Capacitor;
• Evaporator;
• Absorber.

Peculiarities:

• The temperature regime does not differ from electric models;
• Operates both from a gas cylinder and from the mains;
• The design does not include shut-off valves and moving parts.

Gas refrigerators are safe, reliable and durable. The small dimensions of the car refrigerator make it easy to transport and save space in the car.

How a gas refrigerator works

The technological cycle of cooling begins with the heating of a concentrated water-ammonia solution by a gas burner. Due to the lower boiling point of ammonia, this substance boils faster than water. The process of formation of concentrated refrigerant vapor begins, which enters the condenser.

Here, the ammonia vapor condenses, and already liquid ammonia rushes to the evaporator, where it boils due to the removal of heat from the products, forming a vapor-liquid mixture.

Structural diagram showing the principle of operation of the absorption chiller. A gas burner is used here as a generator heater. However, in fact, the heater can be of almost any type.

The absorption refrigerator circuit also provides for the operation of a device called a "reflux condenser". This module is installed at the outlet of the boiler and is designed to obtain a weak water-ammonia solution in the process of partial condensation of saturated vapors. This weak solution is collected in an absorber. A saturated vapor-liquid ammonia mixture is sent there from the evaporator, where it is absorbed. Then the cycle repeats.

Absorption refrigerator, prepared for modernization. Here, the protective metal panel was dismantled, the heat insulator (mineral wool layer) was removed, and the electric heater was removed. There was only a sleeve on the siphon tube

Most absorption household refrigerators are equipped with electric heaters. For example, among such models, refrigerators "Sadko", "Morozko" and others can be noted.

But an electric heater can be replaced by any other heat source, including a propane burner, a radiator, and even stovepipe smoke. Therefore, it is theoretically quite possible to use the noted models of absorption technology for the creation of a gas-powered refrigerator operating in a constant mode with your own hands.

Types of gas appliances and how to choose the right one

When choosing a model of a gas refrigerator, it is required to be guided by principles similar to those used when choosing an ordinary unit. Gas refrigeration equipment is produced in the version of small models, the volume of which reaches 35 liters, as well as in the configuration of floor units - from 100 liters. Spacious refrigerators mean both a freezer and a refrigerator at the same time, and in units of 35 liters - there is only a refrigerator compartment.

The cost of equipment depends on its volume, in comparison with models that are powered only from the mains, gas variations are more expensive. Auto-refrigerators are less expensive due to their small volume

Also, it is required to take into account the class of refrigeration equipment, which describes the climatic conditions during operation.The classes are distributed as follows:

• N +16…+32 С;
• SN +10…+32 С;
• ST +18…+38 С;
• T +18…+43 С.

There are also differences in auxiliary functions and factory equipment of gas refrigeration equipment:

• automated defrosting;
• light and sound signals;
• the presence of wheels for transportation;
• alarm;
• temperature indicator on the panel;
• the presence of a super-cooling function for a rapid decrease in temperature (Super Cool);
• the presence of air circulation, which prevents the freezing of ice - No Frost;
• antibacterial coating;
• economic modes of operation.

In addition to the above, gas refrigerators are divided into electronic and mechanical control options. With their help, it is possible to adjust the temperature indicators inside the refrigeration and freezing compartments of the equipment. The electronic version is equipped with a screen that shows information about the operation of the refrigerator.

Manufacturers

Exmork

A well-known manufacturer of gas refrigerators is Exmork. The company produces absorption refrigerators that can operate without electricity on propane. The connection of such a unit to a gas source is carried out according to the same principle as when installing a conventional gas stove. Depending on the model, a standard 50-liter gas cylinder is enough for the refrigerator to work for 30 to 60 days. The temperature readings are similar to those of a conventional device: from +3 to +5 °C in the refrigerator compartment and from -15 to -5 °C in the freezer compartment. A gas-powered refrigerator will be especially indispensable in areas with constant power outages, because it will keep food fresh in any conditions.The devices are easy to operate, and you can buy such a device not only for the kitchen or summer cottage, but also for the dining room, cafe, camping or on the veranda.

Vitrifrigo

Gas cooling equipment is not yet so popular in Russia, and the Vitrifrigo brand is becoming a well-known manufacturer engaged in its production. You can buy models with volumes of 40 and 150 liters to equip a home, country kitchen or other room, as well as a car. Such equipment can work from any source: a gas cylinder, a 12 V or 220 V network, which allows you to get any temperature indicators.

Assembling a pump from an old refrigerator

There are two ways to make a heat pump from an old refrigerator.

In the first case, the refrigerator must be located inside the room, and outside it is required to lay 2 air ducts and cut into the front door. The upper air enters the freezer, the air is cooled, and it leaves the refrigerator through the lower air duct. The room is heated by a heat exchanger, which is located on the rear wall.

According to the second method, making a heat pump with your own hands is also quite simple. To do this, you need an old refrigerator, it only needs to be built in outside the heated room.

Such a heater can operate at outdoor temperatures down to minus 5 ºС.

Homemade alternative

The meaning of assembling a gas structure is also lost because there are practically no old factory structures of this kind in domestic use. Gas refrigeration equipment with an absorber (made in Russia) is basically an industrial installation, large-sized, heavy-weight, equipped with complex gas equipment.

An example of an industrial absorption gas plant. With a relatively small gas consumption (in industrial accounting), this absorption refrigerator shows high efficiency.

Therefore, an alternative for home-made gas refrigeration is considered more attractive. These are modern mobile compact cooling systems from a series of thermal containers and similar developments. Any of these systems closes the need for cold, which burdens lovers of outdoor trips.

It is for the purpose of cooling and storing food in outdoor recreation that people try to assemble gas refrigerators with their own hands. The range of modern mobile refrigeration equipment is huge

The price of the devices is quite reasonable. Most likely, the purchase of, say, a Comfort brand refrigerator will cost several times less than the cost of upgrading the old absorption system.

At the same time, in terms of technical characteristics, modern compact refrigeration equipment is actually comparable to the same parameters of Sadko. And the temperature range looks more attractive (up to -18ºС).

A more than successful alternative to homemade designs of gas refrigerators. Handy, mobile, compact Waeco-Dometic Combicool, powered by three different heat sources

Finally, there is an opportunity to buy an imported industrial refrigerator that actually operates on propane. A good example is the universal apparatus of a German manufacturer, manufactured under the Waeco-Dometic Combicool brand.

The design of a mobile refrigerator provides cold when operating from one of three energy sources, including a gas cylinder.

Quote from Katra_I

Read the whole articleTo your quote pad or community!Tuning an old refrigerator Look what an interesting story I found! Useful and with pictures!

A zebra settled in our kitchen, or the second life of Donbass

The manipulations with the refrigerator were carried out almost three years ago. We already have a new kitchen, and this refrigerator fits perfectly into it. And it's a shame to change it to a new one. I'm posting here, maybe it will help someone.

And maybe someone will need information about the best ways to invest your money. Of course, the most attractive option is to buy an apartment, because the cost of housing is constantly growing, and every happy family simply needs to have their own home. If you live in Ivanovo, then you should contact the Mercon Group company, which is engaged in the design and construction of residential buildings.

Turning an old refrigerator into a stylish one is very simple. It takes a little patience and creativity. And then here's what: 1. Peel off the stickers, degrease and dry the surface. 2. Unscrew the overhead parts (in our case, this is a black plank on the door). 3. Cut the self-adhesive (on the reverse side there is a very convenient “cell” drawn). 4. Paste the refrigerator with self-adhesive tape and screw the parts into place.

We walked around, looked at people and imperceptibly ended up at the tray with self-adhesive. This is something like washable wallpaper, which you can easily paste over what you feel sorry for throwing away. Eyes fled and did not want to run back until we saw a zebra roll. It's the most! - I thought. The saleswoman's attempts to convince us that we would be tormented to join the drawing did not work. Because we firmly decided to have an ANIMAL in our kitchen.Our old refrigerator. Right now we will make it beautiful!

Tantra also teaches us to be pure. Otherwise, not a fig will stick to you, yes.

Refrigerator "Donbass". February 1982 Maid in Yu Ee Es A.

Say goodbye to your old refrigerator)))

We measure.

Final preparations, "so that everything was beautiful"

We cut off. There are lines drawn on the reverse side. The Germans, tsuko, are cunning. Volkswagen.

The process has begun. Application circle.

The last piece is the hardest one. Stripes stubbornly do not want to match

Ready refrigerator

The final decor... and here it is - the reborn Donbass

Notes: Time costs - 5-6 hours Cash costs - 3 years ago it cost 80 UAH. The zebra is only 45 cm wide (the side of the refrigerator is 57 cm plus the gaps on the sides), so we had to suffer a lot with the docking of the pattern. If you buy a self-adhesive that is suitable in width and one-color, it will probably be cheaper and faster.

We didn't intend to do anything like that. More precisely, they were not going to do anything at all. That's why it's Sunday, to sleep until noon and not strain yourself with all sorts of boring everyday issues. Therefore, we went outside to show ourselves and look at people to turn our cheeks to the sun.

Important! All this beauty was made by sleepless_in_z in collaboration with metelik, and not even me at all, so send all questions and wishes to the authors

Exmork

The company is engaged in the production of absorption refrigerators that can work without electricity. The equipment is connected to the gas in the same way as the oven.Depending on the model, a 50-liter bottle will last from 30 to 60 days. As for temperatures, they range from +3 to +5 degrees in the refrigerator compartment and from -15 in the freezer. Gas consumption is from 12 grams per hour

An important advantage that Exmork experts talk about is that the refrigerator will automatically turn off the gas if the flame goes out. The unit can also be powered by electricity.

Inside there is lighting - LED lamps operate on batteries. One set is enough for 6 or more months.

Refrigerator conversion step by step

Electric heating elements at "Sadko" are located on the siphon tube at the bottom, behind the unit. This area is protected by a metal casing, under which a layer of insulator, such as mineral wool, is laid.

Algorithm for creating a gas refrigerator:

Initially, the electric heater is removed, under the insulating layer.
Place the unit in a room convenient for work.
Remove the protective housing.
Remove insulation.
Remove the electrical element from the siphon tube

Operations are performed with increased caution, since the cooling system is filled with ammonia up to 2.0 atm, depressurization of the system is dangerous for humans.
Install a gas heating line operating on liquefied gas.
In the area of ​​\u200b\u200bthe siphon tube, a module is mounted that heats the medium, while heating it with an open fire is prohibited.
A heat exchanger is made, for example, from a piece of copper, into the internal cavity of which a burner is inserted.
This module must be fixed tightly to the unit's siphon tube, instead of the electric one.
Equipped with protection against overheating, since the permissible operating range of T at "Sadko" is from 50 to 175 C.
For the long-term use of such a refrigerator, it will be necessary to control not only the heating temperature of the medium in the heat exchanger, but also control the flame, propane pressure and provide for ignition. For these purposes, safety and ignition automation units, for example, from a geyser, may be suitable.

Video - propane refrigerator

Let's face it, when you travel, there is not always a source of electricity along the way. And propane refrigerators remain viable in such conditions and, perhaps, we are witnessing their rebirth in the market.

Today there is no house where there is no refrigerator. Mains-operated electrical units are easy to use, economical, and have standard dimensions. But given the relatively low cost of natural gas, a gas-fired refrigerator can be a very attractive alternative to electrical appliances. This equipment is able to work autonomously for a long time. This is a good solution for summer cottages, cars, cafes, restaurants on highways and other objects.

Features of heat pumps

To obtain thermal energy, HP does not use energy carriers, and therefore does not harm the environment. Such an installation produces more thermal energy than it consumes electricity.

Principle of operation

The operation of a heat pump is based on the principle of heat transfer from a colder source to a warmer one. That is, it makes colder things even colder, and warmer things even warmer. This means that the idea of ​​a perpetual motion machine is not incorporated here, because in total the amount of heat remains unchanged, and electricity is spent only on the separation and transfer of heat.

What do you need

A heat pump can be used for both heating and cooling, because it separates and transfers heat. This means that the part of the installation that gets colder can be used to lower the temperature, and the other part to increase it.

Practical tips for propane heating

Since the installation and maintenance of propane heating in cylinders has a number of specific points, it is recommended to follow the recommendations. The main one is the constant monitoring of the presence of gas in the tanks. To do this, you must first calculate the average consumption of one cylinder for the number of days. It should be remembered that the refractive index directly depends on the temperature outside.

To optimize the system with a propane boiler, you can use a combined method - install gas convectors. They are mounted in small remote premises, most often for household purposes. This will save on the installation of pipelines and energy consumption. This scheme is most often used when organizing garage heating with propane.

In addition, you must follow these rules:

• For balloon heating with propane, it is recommended to use containers with a maximum volume of 50 liters;
• The optimal number of cylinders at the same time is 2-3 pcs. At the same time, the same amount should be in stock;
• Installation of equipment for a propane heating system should be trusted only to specialists. Even minor disturbances during installation can lead to dangerous situations.

Self-assembly of the product

To begin with, you should think about the most interesting thing - the handle of the product. To create it, you can use any material.As an option, a pen from an old soldering iron or other device is perfect. The supply tube must be made of steel only. Other materials will not work.

It is very important at the initial stages to pay attention to the dimensions of all structural elements. For example, the diameter of the supply tube should not be more than 1 centimeter, and the thickness of the steel should be 2-3 millimeters. Such an element must be fixed to the handle using glue or other substance to fasten such parts.

Such an element must be fixed to the handle using glue or other substance to fasten such parts.

Such an element must be fixed on the handle with glue or other substance to fasten such parts.

Atomizer device

Further, a hose from the reducer is mounted at the end of the tube. It must be made from a special rubber and fabric mixture. Fastening occurs due to the fixation of the hose with a clamp. After securely fastening the hose, it is necessary to correctly set the pressure in the cylinder and supply gas to it. With the help of such actions, air is completely expelled from the system. If everything is done correctly, then the length of the fire should be at least 40-50 millimeters.

Homemade design is very good tool and a unique tool that will always help a young master in the household in any everyday situations. And since it is very easy to produce it yourself, the popularity of such a tool is growing every day.

How to make cold accumulators yourself

To maintain a low temperature in the bag for a long time, cold accumulators are needed. In the store you can buy liquid or gel versions of such products. The principle of operation is based on the fact that they are placed in the freezer, cooled, and then placed in a bag. However, you can make them yourself, especially since it is not expensive and will not be difficult.

From a bottle

Store cold accumulators can be replaced with plastic bottles of frozen salt water (6 tablespoons per 1 liter). The natural element will not allow the ice to melt quickly, which means that the cold inside the bag will last longer.

From diapers

An original way for families with small children. If you have an absorbent diaper in stock, you must:

1. Pour water into the inner surface.
2. Wait until the liquid is completely absorbed.
3. Cut the diaper.
4. Remove the swollen gel mass from it.
5. Place it in a plastic bag.
6. Tie tightly.
7. Put in the freezer for several hours.
8. Transfer to a travel refrigerator.

From ice cubes

Freeze the ice cubes in advance using special molds or bags. Then pour them into a regular plastic bag. Use another bag to avoid leakage. Homemade cold accumulators are ready, all that remains is to place them in a thermal bag.

During defrosting, condensation will form, which can adversely affect the safety of the products. This can be avoided by wrapping the cooling elements in parchment or newspaper sheets.

Dismantling

To remove the compressor from the old refrigerator, you will need the simplest tool - a few keys and screwdrivers, pliers.The unit to be disconnected from the systems is located at the bottom rear.

Turning the refrigerator door to the wall, the first step is to transfer the copper pipelines connecting the compressor to the cooling grill.

Old models of refrigerators were filled with freon - a very toxic gas, which is why the operation should be carried out in a well-ventilated area, and preferably outdoors, with extreme caution so as not to inhale the poison.

When the tubes are pinched, you can bite them with pliers, and then dismantle the assembly by unscrewing the fasteners.

Faults

Most often, during operation, they face the problem of raising the temperature in the combustion chamber. This happens when connected to the cylinder. Failure in the operation of the main mechanisms is eliminated by replacement.

Possible failure of the shelves and doors. Problems with sound and light alarms are eliminated by replacing the defective part.

Popular malfunctions relate to the ignition of the burner - after a downtime, the device simply does not turn on. Continuous operation causes the temperature in the freezer and refrigerator to rise.

There may be a refrigerant leak from the evaporator. To neutralize the problem, a complete diagnosis is carried out.

The failure of the thermostat occurs due to non-stop operation. Ice and snow build up in the freezer if the door is not closed tightly. In this case, the seals on the door are replaced.

Gas equipment is life-threatening, so it is better to entrust the repair to professionals.

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How to convert a gas stove to bottled gas

In general, setting up a gas stove for bottled gas is not difficult; in order to correctly adapt the stove, you just need to change the gas supply jets to the burners.This is easy to do with your own hands, without hiring specialists for this.

The gas supply to the burner is carried out using a special hole in the jet, which is an integral part of any gas stove. The hole can be of different diameters, depending on the pressure in the gas supply system. Of course, the pressure in the central gas lines is noticeably higher than in a conventional gas cylinder, respectively, and the diameter of the hole in the jet should be smaller.

Often, complete with a gas stove, the manufacturer also includes a set of jets designed for different types of gas mixtures - natural gas, propane-butane, etc. But if they weren’t there or the stove was bought a long time ago, it’s okay, you can buy the necessary jets in the store.

Choosing a jet for bottled gas

Jets (other names: nozzles, injectors, nozzles, etc.) for gas stoves are not in short supply, they can be bought at specialized outlets - markets, shops. In appearance, the jet looks like a regular threaded bolt, but unlike the latter, it has a hole in the center through which, in fact, the gas passes. As we said earlier, the hole can be of different diameters, and usually its value is stamped on the end of the product.

Before buying a jet, you should determine what diameter is needed. This is an important point, since incorrectly selected jets will not allow the stove to work normally, or even make it impossible at all.

It is not difficult to understand that the stove is working correctly after replacing the jets:

the flame should burn without hissing, without yellow impurities and red tongues;

when igniting the burner, pops are not allowed, the flame should not suddenly go out.

The required diameter of the jet hole is indicated in the instructions for the gas stove, if the instruction is lost, then information about your stove and a manual for it can be easily found on the Internet.

We strongly do not recommend changing the diameter of the jet hole on your own by chasing or drilling - new jets are not expensive, and “refinement” at home can have a deplorable effect on the operation of the stove.

What tools are needed

To set up a gas stove for bottled gas and then connect it to a gas tank, you will need the following tools:

first of all, new jets;

wrenches 7 mm, wrenches or open-ended;

screwdrivers;

new flexible hose, 1.5 meters or more in length. Will serve to connect the stove to the gas cylinder;

seal and gas reducer with outlet pressure 30 mbar.

Conclusions and useful video on the topic

Advantages and disadvantages of a mobile refrigerator that can run on both electricity and gas:

A brief video review of the Dometik auto-refrigerator:

Often, the pleasure of one's own success overrides any global innovation. However, modern factory models are more reliable and safer.

Do you have experience in building a gas refrigerator? Or do you use a purchased absorption type unit? Please share your opinion and leave comments. The contact form is located in the lower block.

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