Del Grosso Food Retort
The DelGrosso Foods Retort project in Altoona, PA was an HVAC & plumbing project that aimed to implement a state-of-the-art steam, hot water, and cooling system. The project aimed to improve process efficiency, reduce energy consumption, and enhance sustainability while maintaining a comfortable working environment for the new facility.
Challenge
The project involved the installation of a comprehensive system, utilizing high- and low-pressure steam generated by three water tube boilers. The primary goal was to supply the newly acquired processing equipment with steam and create a hot water loop to facilitate the general building heating system.
Sustainability goals needed to be met within the facility, which required the installation of a 1,000-gallon underground storage tank that could adequately cool discharged water for acceptance into the township’s reclamation facility.
Solution
Our in-house VDC department played a pivotal role in this project’s success. Leveraging cuttingedge technology, they accurately designed the layout of the new units and seamlessly integrated them with existing building conditions by scanning the site beforehand. This approach provided clear piping routes, enabling our prefab department to construct intricate system components offsite. Consequently, field installation was streamlined, minimizing welding and associated inefficiencies.
VDC Comparison
Steam Trap
50 horsepower Bell and Gossett Pump
To efficiently distribute steam throughout the facility, an 8-inch steam main with steam traps was installed. These traps allowed the steam condensate to return to a deaerator and surge tank, promoting water reuse and circulation back to the boilers. Additionally, the hot water loop was set up using a 50 horsepower Bell and Gossett pump and schedule 40 carbon steel with grooved connections. The make-up air unit located outside, combined with roof-mounted exhaust fans, ensured proper ventilation and heat supply.
Recognizing the significance of cooling in industrial processes, we integrated a comprehensive chilling system comprising of a 300-ton chiller, an 850-ton fluid cooler, and a 1,420-ton adiabatic cooler. To optimize cooling water reuse, a 60 horsepower Bell and Gossett pump and schedule 40 stainless steel grooved pipe were implemented. A separate heat exchanger and a 10,000-gallon storage tank were also installed to further enhance cooling water management.
Sucessful Outcome
Our collaboration with DelGrosso Foods in delivering this cutting-edge project has been a true success story. The integration of advanced technologies, focus on sustainability, and dedication to efficiency have set a new benchmark for industrial process enhancements.
