Anhydrous ammonia is a versatile commodity in many manufacturing applications, including cold storage and food processing facilities. In comparison, anhydrous ammonia raises a range of safety and environmental issues to be addressed when determining some form of process instrumentation. Traditionally, visual level indication of anhydrous ammonia was obtained using sight glasses. This white paper discusses key areas in the ammonia refrigeration process where magnetic level indicators (MLIs) can provide a safer , more reliable method of level measurement over conventional technologies. The goal of this document is to highlight the benefits of MLIs that will lead to improved personnel safety , reduced risk of fugitive emissions, reduced environmental impact, and reduced maintenance costs in large commercial and industrial ammonia refrigeration systems. “Ammonia is considered a high health hazard because it is corrosive to the skin, eyes, and lungs. Exposure to 300 parts per million (ppm) is immediately dangerous to life and health. Ammonia is also flammable at concentrations of approximately 15% to 28% by volume in air.”Occupational Safety and Health Administration |