The Refrigeration Mentor Podcast
Trevor Matthews
Recent Episodes
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Learn more about Refrigeration Mentor Customized Technical Training Programs at www.refrigerationmentor.com/courses
In this episode, we're talking about blending personal and technical development, focusing on how AI can be effectively used for troubleshooting and learning. It takes an investment of both time and money into personal growth - setting career goals, attending training sessions, and developing strong communication within teams. This conversation is loaded with strategies for technicians looking to advance in their careers and take a proactive approach to self-improvement and professional development.
In this episode, we cover:
-The impact of refrigeration on everyday life
-Attending industry events and learning from technicians
-Using AI in refrigeration troubleshooting
-Value of training and personal investment
-Building confidence
-Career growth in the trades
-The power of setting goals
-The future of refrigeration
Helpful Links & Resources:
Episode 352. AI and New Refrigeration Training & Troubleshooting Resources
Episode 338. Professional Development Tools & Resources in Refrigeration
Episode 256. Career Tips for New Technicians
Join the Refrigeration Mentor Hub here
Learn more about Refrigeration Mentor Customized Technical Training Programs at www.refrigerationmentor.com/courses
In this episode, we're diving deep into TX (Thermal Expansion) valves. We got a lot of more electronic valves coming, stepper valves, pulse valves etc. out there, and getting a good understanding of the different kinds TX valves and how they work is critical for refrigeration technicians to be able to setup and troubleshoot more efficiently. We cover common issues and troubleshooting tips, including how to adjust superheat, the impact of liquid temperature on TX valve sizing, and the various factors to consider before adjusting or replacing TX valves.
In this episode, we discuss:
-Understanding TX valves
-Superheat and compressor management
-Refrigerant injection and cooling techniques
-Importance of liquid temperature
-Sizing and testing TX valves
-Troubleshooting TX valves
-Comprehensive system analysis
-Practical tips and community insights
Helpful Links & Resources:
Episode 16. TXV/TEV - A discussion about Thermostatic Expansion Valves
Episode 326. Mastering A2L TX Valves with Jamie Kitchen of Danfoss
Episode 340. Basics of CO2 Controls with Kevin Mullis (Part 1 of 4)
Join the Refrigeration Mentor Hub here
Learn more about Refrigeration Mentor Customized Technical Training Programs at www.refrigerationmentor.com/courses
This episode is from one of our regular Refrigeration Mentor Community meetups with fellow technicians. We discuss a range of topics like E3 training controllers, compressor issues, inspection cylinders, and the use of AI in troubleshooting. We also cover a list of events for refrigeration technicians to check out, share some wins and stories from the field, as well as some resources the techs on the call have found useful of late. These Community Meetups open forum and we host these regularly - if you'd like in on the next one, be sure to join the Refrigeration Mentor Community Hub.
In this conversation, we discuss:
-New CO2 Controller Challenge
-AI in refrigeration
-E3 controller training and licensing
-Inspecting cylinders
-Compressor issues and solutions
-Oil and refrigerant retrofit
-Diagnosing blow-by
-Checking valve plates and wrist pins
-Job interviews
- Using AI in troubleshooting
Helpful links & Resources:
Episode 350. Supermarket Refrigeration Tips and Tricks with Robert Ochs
Episode 115: Understanding Compressors: What You Need To Know
FMI (Food Industry Association) Events
Join the Refrigeration Mentor Hub here
Learn more about Refrigeration Mentor Customized Technical Training Programs at www.refrigerationmentor.com/courses
In this episode, we're talking with Frank Croak, EMS Manager at Climate Pros, about the shift from mechanical to electronic refrigeration controls. Frank offers valuable advice for technicians on both the technical side and why keeping up with technology can help you advance in today's refrigeration field. We also discuss the impact of CO2 on the industry, the role of AI in predictive analytics, and the need for technicians to develop strong mechanical and control system knowledge.
In this conversation, we cover:
-Evolution of controls in refrigeration
-The shift to CO2 and its challenges
-Value of hands-on experience
-Technological advancements in refrigeration
-Balancing work and personal life in the trades
-Tips for technicians transitioning to controls
-Understanding the basics of heat movement
-Electrical troubleshooting
-Mentoring and coaching in refrigeration
-Effective communication and accountability
-Setting goals and continuous learning
Helpful Links & Resources:
Episode 340. Basics of CO2 Controls with Kevin Mullis (Part 1 of 4)
Episode 336. Fast Track to Learning Electronic Valves & Controllers
Episode 261. Supermarket Case Controller Troubleshooting Tips
Connect with Frank on LinkedIn
FMI (Food Industry Association) Events
Join the Refrigeration Mentor Hub here
Learn more about Refrigeration Mentor Customized Technical Training Programs at www.refrigerationmentor.com/courses
In this episode, we're digging into some tips and tricks for supermarket refrigeration with Rob Ochs, longtime refrigeration industry veteran. We'll delve into understanding and optimizing superheat, troubleshooting common issues, and the importance of proper maintenance and recommissioning. Rob also has some awesome tips for setting superheat correctly, checking compressor superheat, handling different refrigerant systems, and addressing common problems encountered with rack systems. This episode is filled with practical advice and tips for refrigeration technicians aiming to elevate their expertise and efficiency.
In this episode, we cover:
-Understanding superheat and compressor mechanics
-Rack refrigeration challenges
-Defrost systems and troubleshooting
-Superheat and subcooling strategies
-Recommissioning and maintenance tips
-Importance of individual compressor checks
-Discharge superheat: manufacturer differences
-Compressor design and liquid injection
-Setting superheat for different run lengths
-Environmental conditions and system efficiency
-Logging and tracking superheat
-Superheat adjustments and troubleshooting
Helpful Links & Resources:
Episode 271. The Inspiring Refrigeration Journey of Robert Ochs
Episode 203. Supermarket Refrigeration Service Tech Tips with Andrew Freeburg
Episode 306. Mastering Supermarket Service Calls with Andrew Freeburg