Swiss chocolate manufacturer Lindt & Sprüngli recently opened a new logistic center built by Engineering 2K near Milan, Italy. To install the refrigeration system for the packaging and storage of this perishable product, Lindt commissioned the whole plant to Frigo Tecnica Internazionale Spa. Frigo Tecnica selected GF Piping Systems and its COOL-FIT ABS (acrylonitrile butadiene styrene) Plus plastic piping system for the secondary refrigeration systems.

To install the secondary refrigeration piping system, several problems had to be solved mainly caused by the pipe dimensions (up to eight inches) and placement almost 40 feet above the floor. The positioning and clamping of traditional metal pipe would have been extremely difficult and expensive, requiring the use of lift equipment. The plastic piping system solved these problems.

According to Enrico Rossetti, project manager for Frigo Tecnica Internazionale Spa, “The solution suggested by GF Piping allowed us to supply Lindt an efficient and modern system free from the disadvantages typically associated with black steel, such as the tendency to corrode, heavy weight and difficulty in welding pipes overhead.” Working with COOL-FIT ABS Plus was much easier, even in difficult situations, adds Rosetti. Employing the distribution piping system to carry cold glycol and warm water for the humidity control circuit allowed installation completion in a short time, considering that about 8,500 feet of pipe was installed to cool the entire 8-acre logistic plant in just three months.

The piping system is pre-insulated plastic specially developed for cooling applications. The carrier pipe is made from ABS, a material with excellent mechanical qualities, which can be used at temperatures as low as -40°F. ABS is also extremely light in weight; 3.2 ft. of 8-in. ABS pipe weighs just 25.5 lbs. versus 82 lbs. for the same length of steel pipe. Additionally, the cementing system for connection facilitates easy assembly of pipe and fittings, even in difficult conditions.

For more information, 800-854-4090, or visit GF Piping.