Air Cooled Chiller is a type of cooling system used to remove heat from a liquid via a vapor-compression or absorption refrigeration cycle. It is commonly used in commercial, industrial, and institutional facilities to cool machinery, products, or the building itself.

Key Components

  1. Compressor: Compresses refrigerant to increase its pressure and temperature.

  2. Condenser Coils: Transfer heat from the refrigerant to the outside air.

  3. Expansion Valve: Reduces the pressure of the refrigerant, causing it to cool rapidly.

  4. Evaporator: Transfers heat from the process water to the refrigerant, cooling the water.

  5. Fans: Blow air over the condenser coils to facilitate heat dissipation.

  6. Refrigerant: A fluid that absorbs heat during evaporation and releases it during condensation.

Working Principle

  1. Heat Absorption: The process fluid (like water) passes through the evaporator, transferring its heat to the refrigerant.

  2. Refrigeration Cycle:

    • The refrigerant evaporates, absorbing heat from the process fluid.

    • The compressor increases the refrigerant’s pressure, raising its temperature.

    • The heated refrigerant releases heat to the atmosphere as it condenses in the condenser coils.

    • The expansion valve lowers the refrigerant pressure, and the cycle repeats.

Applications

  • Industrial: Used in manufacturing processes, such as plastic molding, food processing, and chemical production.

  • HVAC: Provide cooling for buildings, data centers, and hospitals.

  • Cooling Equipment: Maintain optimal conditions for industrial machines and equipment.