RPA-OR Models to Address Water Pull-Off Issues Recommended Upgrades (only applicable to RPA-OR coolers manufactured between 2023 and 2025)
Overview
As part of our commitment to continuous improvement and customer satisfaction, we are introducing a series of upgrades for the RPA-OR cooler range. These enhancements are specifically designed to address water pull-off issues, which are often difficult to diagnose.
The upgrade kits are applicable to Braemar RPA-OR models 320, 400, 450, and 500 manufactured between 2023 and 2025.
Upgrade Focus Areas
- Pad Frame Drains
- Water from the bottom of the pad is now directed in a steady stream to the corners and center of the tank, stopping loose droplets from being pulled in by the fan — the main cause of water intake.
- Anti-Vortex Plate
- Extended and reshaped to improve drainage and reduce the chance of water landing on top and being pulled into the fan.
- Fan Speed Reductions (Applicable to RPA-OR 450 and 500 only)
- Achieved by changing motor pulleys and belts.
Upgrade Kit Options
Pad Frame Drains & Anti-Vortex Plate Kits
These upgrades are available in two formats:
- Sheetmetal Only Kits
Includes the necessary metal components to retrofit existing pad frames with improved drainage and anti-vortex features. - Complete Replacement Pad Frame & Chillcel Assemblies
Includes pre-assembled pad frames with upgraded drainage and anti-vortex improvements, along with new Chillcel pads. Ideal for full replacements or major refurbishments.
Cooler Model | Sheetmetal Kit P/N | Chillcel Assembly Kit P/N |
RPA-OR 500 | 070711 | 070735 |
RPA-OR 320-450 | 070728 | 070742 |
Each kit contains sufficient parts for one cooler.
Fan Speed Reduction Components (RPA-OR 450 and 500 only)
All models will use the 112mm motor pulley (P/N 112X1SPA) with a new belt depending on discharge type:
Discharge Type | Belt P/N |
Down Discharge | VBA78 |
Side Discharge | 641072 (VBA78) |
Top Discharge | 042301 (VBA66) |
Ordering Example
For a RPA450TC-OR cooler, the required parts are:
- 1x 070728 (Sheetmetal Kit) or 1x 070742 (Chillcel Assembly Kit)
- 1x 112X1SPA (Motor Pulley)
- 1x 042301 (Top Discharge Belt)
864586-A Lit RPA-OR Pad Frame Upgrade Pdf attached
Pad Frame Upgrade for Braemar RPA-OR Chillcel Drains (Models 320 / 400 / 450 / 500)
Applies to:
Braemar RPA-OR 320 / 400 / 450 / 500 models manufactured between 2023 and 2025.
Safety Warnings
- Electrical Safety: Always isolate the cooler power supply before performing any electrical repair or maintenance.
- Plumbing Safety: Always isolate the cooler water supply before performing any plumbing repair or maintenance.
- Sharp Edges: This kit contains sharp metal edges and corners. Wear safety gloves during installation.
Kit Contents
This upgrade kit includes:
- Replacement Chillcel® pad frame supports
- Replacement anti-vortex plates
- M6 bolts, washers, and nuts
Installation Instructions
1. Fit Replacement Anti-Vortex Plates
- Remove the existing anti-vortex plates located between the fan and the Chillcel®.
- The new plates are longer and require new holes in the support frame.
- Align the center hole, then drill new outer holes.
- Secure the new plates using the supplied M6 bolts, washers, and nuts.
- Ensure the float arm clears the new plate—adjust if necessary.
2. Fit Replacement Pad Frame Supports
- If the supports are supplied loose, remove all existing metal supports.
- Use the existing fasteners to install the new sheet metal supports.
- Note the orientation of the lower plate.
- Drill two new holes in the support frame on both sides as shown in the installation diagram.