SVL News

Adiabatic Cooler Obtains Maximized Cooling Power and Optimal Efficiency

Evapco's Cutting-Edge Adiabatic Cooler Provides Efficient Cooling Power

Adiabatic Coolers are able to assist the evaporation process without transferring heat or mass back into the system. Evapco has developed an Adiabatic cooler with superior efficiency, reduced maintenance requirements, and a wide range of sizes to meet nearly any facility’s needs.

How Adiabatic Cooling Works

Evapco Adiabatic Series Cooling Towers

 

Adiabatic cooling is a thermodynamic process where air moves without transferring mass or heat between a system or its surroundings and cooling the

fluid as it passes through the system.  The wetted fibrous pads aid the pre-cooling process with minimal water requirements, which results in increased capacity and energy savings.  No water treatment, cold water basin, or water pump is necessary for this single-pass system.

Hot water enters the system’s inlet header connection (see the diagram to the right, red).  The hot water’s heat dissipates as it moves through the coil surface, then transfers to the fins. Now the system’s fibrous pads are fully wetted in front of the coil. Fans on top of the unit draw air through the pre-cooled adiabatic pads. Humidification occurs as the air passes through the adiabatic pad, and decreases the ambient dry-bulb temperature, move within a few degrees of the wet-bulb temperature. The pre-cooled air then moves through the surface of the tube and fin, which can significantly increase the heat rejection capacity.  The heat transferred moves into the discharge air, finally exiting the unit. The cool process fluid cycles out of the unit through the (blue) connections.

Benefits of Adiabatic Cooling

Adiabatic cooling is an especially efficient technology that has many benefits, including reduced water consumption, advanced technology, innovative design, as well as epoxy-coated fins.

Reduced Maintenance

Evapco’s adiabatic cooling equipment mitigates typical concerns, such as scaling, bacteria, and corrosion. The fully evaporative units are designed to be a once-through system, eliminating the necessity of a pump or basin for water.  The pads filter the air prior to contact with the coil, which limits contaminants getting to the tubes and fins.  The motors incorporated in the design require no routine maintenance.

Lower Water Consumption

Adiabatic technology within Evapco’s cooling units consumes minimal water to meet cooling requirements with more efficiency. The fibrous wetted adiabatic pads further cool incoming air to obtain the greatest heat transfer once the air is humidified and only uses water when required due to ambient conditions or load. Compared to other cooling methods, the reduction in water consumption further reduces operation expenses, such as water treatment, supply, and disposal. Proprietary PLC logic maximizes water conservation when Evapco’s eco-Air adiabatic systems include the Evapco controls package.

 Advanced Design Feature of the Adiabatic Cooler

The Evapco eco-Air Adiabatic unit has superior steel technology. The high-grade Type 304L stainless steel tubing is standard and meets ASME B31.5 refrigerant piping code. It is also available in 5/8″ OD.

The eco-Air Series’ utilizes an exceptional coil design to increase efficiency. CFD (computational fluid dynamics) modeling software paired with proprietary calculation methods of coil performance and finite element heat transfer analysis have enabled Evapco’s engineers to improve the finned coil’s design.  The refined finned coil has significant advantages to others on the market than the extensive computer modeling done in Evapco’s cutting-edge research department. The advanced design optimizes heat transfer resulting in better cooling.

Coil bend covers and epoxy coated fins prolong the life of the cooling system. The coil bend covers aid in protecting the return bends during handling and operation, reducing wear and tear. Additionally, epoxy coats every fin in the unit to increase corrosion resistance and does not impact capacity.

Created with Easy Installation in Mind

The adiabatic unit features a number of other design aspects that make transportation and installation easy. Forklift channels are standard on units up to 27 feet long and mounted at each fan motor. The location of the forklift channels allows for electronic isolation of individual motors. Every unit is designed to ship and install as one piece, reducing assembly expenses and installation time. Furthermore, a large inspection panel and an internal step-deck with a grab rail and platform provide easy access for inspection. Coil return bend covers are in place to protect the coil’s bends during operation, prolonging the system’s lifespan.

Evapco’s Adiabatic Cooler

EVAPCO eco-Air Series heat exchanger units come with an exclusive and unmatched guarantee of 100% thermal performance. No other products utilizing adiabatic technology on the market offer this level of assurance. Adiabatic technology drastically reduces water requirements to achieve the cooling efficiency attained by Evapco’s systems.  Furthermore, aluminum fins and 304L stainless steel tubing are standard on this system. Adiabatic technology is available on systems with a capacity range from 13 to 415 nominal tons, making it an excellent fit for applications of nearly any size. The unit ships in one low-profile piece, eliminating the time required for assembly required for other options. Additionally, Evapco’s adiabatic cooling system is IBC Compliant for 1.5 Importance Factor installations. They are ideal for high ambient dry bulb climates and high-temperature applications. Finally, the adiabatic cooling units require less maintenance than typical options.

About Evapco

Since 1976, Evapco has been a global industry-leading manufacturer of heat transfer applications. It is dedicated to offering the highest quality products of industrial refrigeration and evaporative cooling across the globe. Evapco manufactures its cutting-edge technology worldwide along with 170 strategically located sales offices. The company is committed to developing top-of-the-line technology to meet and exceed customer requirements.

To learn more about adding an Evapco Adiabatic Cooler to your system, click here or contact your SVL Sales Representative.

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                      Jim Lubratt

                      President & Chief Executive Officer

                      Jim Lubratt has been president of SVL since 2006. He first joined the company as a sales engineer in 1992 and was made a partner in 2000. He holds a Bachelor of Science in mechanical engineering from Southern Methodist University and first entered the HVAC industry as a marketing engineer for a heat pump manufacturer in Texas.

                      In addition to his role at SVL, Jim is vice president of AQC Industries, LLC, a manufacturer of specialized underground ductwork systems. He is also an investor and board member for Hydromx, Inc., a manufacturer of heat transfer nanofluids, and Crotega, Inc., creators of personal and building security solutions.

                      Jim and his wife, Tracy, met in college and married in 1993. They have three children, two of whom have graduated college in Texas, while their youngest is attending Grand Canyon University in Arizona.

                      Outside of work, Jim places a priority on his faith, family, friends, and fitness. He enjoys helping people-supporting charities, time with his wife and kids, road-biking with friends and efforts to stay physically fit.

                      A message from Jim on the achievements of SVL

                      SVL started in February 1967 by Charlie Schwab and Craig Vollhaber. Schwab-Vollhaber, Inc. (as it was named at the time) steadily grew and, in 1985, welcomed Paul Lubratt as another partner, becoming Schwab-Vollhaber-Lubratt, Inc. SVL’s founders had the determination to build the most talented, customer-focused HVAC representative in the Midwest. Our original drive and passion still shape the company and culture to this day. The achievements of an organization are the results of the combined efforts of every individual. From humble beginnings, SVL founders paved the way to industry success with hard work and determination. “Today, SVL is strongly organized with great people to lead our industry forward as we are challenged with fast-paced changes to reduce our environmental impact,” says Jim. Now, 55+ years later, SVL is under the leadership of two new principals who share the same vision and drive that has propelled SVL throughout the years. Built on a foundation of integrity, Jim Lubratt, and Charlie Vollhaber strive to ensure opportunities for personal growth, improved work environment, and shared life enrichment. The achievements of our organization are the results of the combined efforts of every individual.

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                      Charlie Vollhaber

                      Executive Vice President & Officer

                      Charlie Vollhaber is a third-generation employee at SVL, as a grandson of company co-founder Craig Vollhaber and son of former CEO Todd Vollhaber. Charlie holds a Bachelor of Science in mechanical engineering and an MBA, both from the University of Minnesota. He became an outside salesman for SVL in 2013, was made a partner in 2019, and then executive vice president and officer in 2022.

                      He grew up playing sports, including football, basketball, golf, and track, and enjoys the competitive nature of the HVAC industry. “I like that no two days are ever the same as there are always questions to answer and problems to solve,” he says. “Most of all, I enjoy working with great people and coordinating together on challenging projects to achieve positive results together.”

                      Outside of work, Charlie enjoys spending time with his wife, Lesley, and their three boys. He’s also fond of golfing, traveling, and attending concerts and sporting events. One of his favorite quotes is from the book of Philippians: “Do nothing from selfish ambition or conceit, but in humility count other more significant than yourselves. Let each of you look not only to his own interests, but also to the interests of others.” Because HVAC and construction is such a team effort, he says, “this mindset helps to create positive results in a vast majority of situations.”

                      A message from Charlie on the culture of SVL

                      “At SVL, we strive to cultivate a unique culture that revolves around finding and empowering exceptional individuals. We believe in equipping our team members with the right tools and resources to succeed.

                      As we’ve grown the business, we have deliberately maintained a small firm culture, fostering an environment where collaboration thrives. We encourage open dialogue and promote a sense of comfort among our employees, allowing anyone to ask questions and seek guidance from anyone else, regardless of their level within the organization.

                      We foster a workshop-like atmosphere where everyone’s contribution is valued. Presenting your work to another individual or a group of teammates provides a platform for collaboration, where ideas are shared, dissected, and improved collectively. We firmly believe in the power of mentoring and provide various avenues for both formal and informal guidance. Whether it’s through structured training programs or casual conversations, we encourage team members to discuss a wide range of topics, from work-related successes or issues to everyday personal life topics.

                      In summary, our culture is built on the foundation of attracting exceptional individuals, empowering them with the necessary tools, and fostering a collaborative environment where mentorship and growth thrive. We are committed to creating an atmosphere where every team member feels supported, valued, and encouraged to reach their fullest potential.”

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                      Al Gramse

                      Vice President of SVL Service Corporation

                      Al Gramse has been in the HVAC industry for over 30 years. He began as a service technician.  Then over his career worked in technical support, building automation, then service manager prior to his current role.

                      How did Al end up in the HVAC industry?  “After high school, I took a couple years to figure out what I wanted to do.   Where I was working at the time, a grumpy old coworker, who I didn’t get along with, walked up to me and said ‘What are you doing here?  Go back to school.’”  I said, “For what?”  He said “There’s a tech school down the street.  Go down there and pick something that interests you”. Then he walked away.  That weird interaction, with someone I didn’t get along with, sent me down a 30-year path in the HVAC industry.   Never underestimate the potential of a little encouragement.   Even if it is from a strange source.

                      Al has been with SVL for 15 years and is the head of our SVL Service division. “The people here are some of the best in the industry,” Al says. “A bunch of team-oriented, knowledgeable, go-getters.” His personal mantra is “figure it out,” “Do a little fact-finding on your own. Use your own brain before you use someone else’s. But know when to ask for help.” he prescribes. “It’s amazing what you can accomplish on your own if you dig in a little bit.”

                      Outside of work, Al has lots of outdoor hobbies, including hunting, fishing, and motorcycling, though his favorite pastime is simply hanging out with family.

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                      Jennifer Roach

                      Director of Marketing, Events & Administration

                      More than just a creative director, Jen brings 30 years of marketing and leadership magic to SVL. Her journey began in the trenches of graphic design, quickly evolving into crafting eye-catching campaigns for iconic brands like Target, Gabberts, Gander Mountain and Camping World. As a seasoned director and agency veteran, she honed her skills with recreational vehicle giant Parts Unlimited before leading creative teams at HOM Furniture and, ultimately, landing at SVL during a crucial growth phase.

                      Jen thrives on "servant-leadership," empowering her team and fostering a culture of trust and mutual respect. "It unlocks their potential, fuels creativity, and leads to work we're all proud of," she says. "I want my team to care, collaborate, and push boundaries together."

                      When not shaping impactful campaigns, Jen enjoys weekend adventures with her husband, Scott, and son, Crew. Their lives are a tapestry of shared passions, from bike rides and baking experiments to cheering on Simley High School wrestlers. And with her recently built forever home in Cottage Grove, her free time now includes a new, thrilling chapter: weekend renovation warrior!

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                      Mike Ruff

                      Vice President of Information Technology

                      Mike Ruff, the Vice President of Information Technology at SVL Inc., is a seasoned professional with an impressive 24-year tenure in the IT industry. His journey in the field is marked by extensive experience and expertise in various domains, including serving as a Cloud Architect focusing on Azure Software as a Service (SaaS), Infrastructure as a Service (IaaS), and both B2B and B2C solutions. Mike’s skills extend to being a Security Architect, where he has honed his knowledge in safeguarding digital assets, and he is also proficient in the Microsoft 365 stack, virtualization, routing, switching, and wireless technologies.

                      Beyond his professional roles, Mike is deeply passionate about technology in all its forms, which is evident in his career and personal hobbies. His love for technology is not just limited to his work but also spills over into his leisure activities. In the summertime, Mike enjoys the thrill of riding his motorcycle, embracing the freedom and adventure it brings. When winter arrives, he switches gears to snowboarding, seeking the excitement and challenge of the snowy slopes. These hobbies reflect Mike’s dynamic personality and continuous pursuit of technically engaging and physically exhilarating activities.

                      Mike Ruff's blend of professional expertise and personal passions make him a unique and valuable asset to SVL Inc., embodying a perfect synergy of technical acumen and a zest for life's adventurous aspects.

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