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source: hvacrnews.com.au
17 Apr, 1816
03 Sep, 1893
Pleurisy
Scottish,Australian
Politician
77
James Harrison (1816–1893) was an Australian engineer and inventor, regarded as the founding father of the refrigeration era in Australia. His inventions formed the basis of modern-day refrigeration and air conditioning, which have extensively altered society by allowing longer-term transportation and storage of perishable goods.
James Harrison was born on April 15, 1816, in Scotland and trained as a printer before he emigrated to Australia in early 1837. Scattered business ventures gave way to an initial career in the printing industry; however, it was his endeavors in engineering that would come to define him.
His foray into refrigeration technology started with a keen interest in improving methods to preserve food and drink. By the early 1850s, Harrison had become heavily interested in developing refrigeration technology, fueled by the difficulties of keeping perishable items fresh in a hot Australian climate. His primary interest then shifted to the effect of thermodynamic principles on devising a practical refrigeration machine.
Harrison’s primary commercial interest was to develop a mechanical refrigeration unit that could be used in any climate. He successfully demonstrated a vapour-compression refrigeration system in 1856, of which the basic design remains in use today. This system worked by using coolant evaporation to absorb heat and compressing the vapor to raise its temperature and pressure, which allowed for cooling air.
His refrigeration equipment was first utilized in a brewery in Geelong, Victoria, Australia, where it proved highly successful. This practical application of his invention not only demonstrated its functionality but also showed its commercial viability. Harrison’s device dramatically increased the quality and shelf life of beer and other perishable goods, making it a natural fit in the food and beverage industry.
Aside from his work in refrigeration, Harrison also made significant contributions to the field of air conditioning. He designed one of the first air conditioning systems, applying refrigeration technology to cool air in indoor spaces. This early air conditioning unit was another important step toward the development of modern air conditioning systems.
Despite his successes, Harrison faced many frustrating challenges over the years, and few in the business community believed in him. However, his persistence and determination ultimately led to widespread recognition of his work. Harrison’s innovations laid the groundwork for future advancements in refrigeration and air conditioning, leading to more efficient large-scale systems than had been conceived in previous decades.
James Harrison received various praises and honors for his work. During his lifetime, he was known as a pioneer in refrigeration technology, and his contributions have had a lasting impact on both industry practices and everyday life. His inventions transformed how food and beverages were stored, significantly improving quality of life and the efficiency of commerce.
James Harrison died on May 3, 1893, in Australia. His legacy lives on through the quality refrigeration and air conditioning systems used by numerous industries, benefiting people around the world. Harrison’s approach to solving practical problems through engineering innovation serves as an exemplary model of how one person’s efforts can have a profound impact on technology and society.
James Harrison
James Harrison
Male
Pleurisy
Dunbar, East Lothian, Scotland
Geelong, Victoria, Australia
Logician: Innovative inventors with an unquenchable thirst for knowledge. He had high innovative spirit and his achievements are its proof.
Harrison's invention played a crucial role in the Australian meat export industry by enabling the shipment of frozen meat to Europe.
Harrison was originally trained as a printer before shifting his focus to engineering
He established one of the first newspapers in Victoria, Australia, called the "Geelong Advertiser."
His refrigeration process used ether to cool the air, a method that was revolutionary at the time.
Awarded a medal at the 1873 Melbourne Exhibition for his refrigeration technology.
Invented the first practical mechanical refrigeration system.
Pioneered refrigeration in the brewing industry, allowing for year-round brewing.