Frank Rukavina Arena

Ice Rinks

Clockwise from bottom left: (1) new ammonia refrigeration system; (2) reuse one existing compressor, one new compressor; (3) new dasher board system.

ICE SYSTEM

Indirect Refrigeration System
Ammonia/Brine
Concrete floor
Dasher Board System

PROJECT COMPLETION

September, 2007

CONSTRUCTION COST

Ice System: $638,700
Dasher Boards: $118,300

OWNER

Lake County, Minnesota

Silver Bay, Minnesota

The existing ice system at the Frank Rukavina Arena was installed in 1967. Reoccurring problems over the last several years prompted the County to start planning for improvements and/or replacement of the ice system. Stevens performed an evaluation of the ice system, in 2005, identifying problems and inefficiencies with the system. Based on the evaluation, it was determined that the 40 year old ice system has served the facility well, more than exceeding its life expectancy, and that it should be replaced to maintain a reliable, safe, and efficient system.

The new ice system is designed to achieve the highest efficiency possible. Ammonia, an environmentally efficient refrigerant, and calcium chloride (brine) were selected as refrigerants because of their very efficient heat transfer properties. Other key design features of the system include high efficiency motors, high quality insulation, and a seamless rink piping system (fusion welded connections).

Efforts were made to keep the project costs down by: re-using one of the existing a backup system rather than purchasing a new unit; the City removing the existing dasher board system and by the County removing the existing concrete rink floor.