Dr Pearson on Refrigeration...

The complete series of columns written by Star’s Group Managing Director Dr. Andy Pearson for ASHRAE Journal, beginning with the first column published in March 2012 to the very latest.

The column is published each month in the Journal and covers topics spanning from refrigeration basics to heat pumps and even fitting tributes to the industry’s most indispensable pioneers who have sadly departed. Each column is written in an offbeat and humorous style minus any head-scratching technical jargon, meaning they are enjoyable for anyone to read – not just fridge engineers!

Be More Hippocratic

Applying a “do no harm” mindset to engineering decisions and system design.

Scientists Not Baffled

Clarifying a classic experiment to show science is careful, not confused.

Staying Tight

How leak-tight design safeguards efficiency, safety, and compliance in modern refrigeration systems.

Getting Tight

Introducing the idea of “tightness” as a measurable design and maintenance target.

Making Ammonia Work For You

Practical strategies for leveraging ammonia’s strengths while managing safety and regulation.

Confessions of a Curmudgeon

A seasoned engineer’s reflections on presentations, progress, and professional frustrations.

Multitasking

Looking at systems asked to do too much with too little capacity.

What’s in a Nomograph?

Rediscovering nomographs as intuitive tools for complex refrigeration and HVAC calculations.

The Giant’s Shoulders

Remembering a few towering figures who reshaped modern refrigeration thinking.

Reverse Cycle

Taking a closer look at reverse-cycle heat pumps in changing climates.

Got Gas?

Discussing gas detection, leak response, and responsibilities around refrigerant releases.

Nipping at Your Nose

Using human comfort in cold weather to rethink low-temperature system design.