Chiller

operation
Basic Components of a Chiller

• Compressor
• Evaporator
• Condenser
• Expansion Valve
Basic Refrigerant Circuit

• In a chiller, the refrigerant circuit

encompasses a compressor,
condenser, expansion valve, and
evaporator. This closed-loop system
cycles refrigerant to absorb heat from
a building's interior, convey it to the
condenser for dissipation, and return
chilled refrigerant to facilitate
effective cooling in HVAC
applications
Refrigerant Circuit for Water-Cooled Chiller

• In a water-cooled chiller, the

refrigerant circuit includes a
compressor, condenser, expansion
valve, and evaporator. This closed-
loop system circulates refrigerant to
absorb and dissipate heat, facilitating
efficient cooling in HVAC
applications.
Refrigerant Circuit for Air-Cooled Chiller

• In an air-cooled chiller, the refrigerant

circuit consists of a compressor,
condenser, expansion valve, and
evaporator. It cycles refrigerant to
absorb and release heat, facilitating
the cooling process in HVAC
systems.
 Types of Chillers
• Air-Cooled Chillers:
• Use air as the heat rejection medium.
• Suitable for smaller applications and locations with limited water availability.
• Water-Cooled Chillers:
• Expel heat using water as the primary heat rejection medium.
• Efficient for larger installations and applications with a consistent water supply.
• Absorption Chillers:
• Operate using heat, typically steam or hot water, as an energy source.
• Suitable for applications where waste heat or alternative energy sources are available.
• Centrifugal Chillers:
• Use a centrifugal compressor to generate cooling.
• Commonly employed in large commercial and industrial HVAC systems.
 Chiller Functionality
1. Evaporation
• Liquid refrigerant absorbs heat from the chilled water
• Lowers the temperature of the refrigerant
2. Compression
• The compressor raises the pressure and temperature of the refrigerant
• Converts it into a high-pressure, high-temperature gas
3. Condensation
• Hot refrigerant gas releases heat to the condenser water
• Converts back to a liquid state
4. Expansion
• The expansion valve reduces the pressure of the refrigerant
• Lowers its temperature for the next cycle
Chiller
Control
Systems
 Chiller Control Systems(Contd…)

• Microprocessor-Based Controls:
• Definition and explanation of microprocessor-based controls in chiller systems.
• Role in processing information, executing control algorithms, and ensuring precise management of
chiller parameters.
• Temperature Control:
• Insight into how chiller control systems maintain accurate temperature control.
• Continuous monitoring and adjustment of setpoints based on temperature sensor feedback.
• Variable Frequency Drives (VFD):
• Integration of VFDs with chiller motors for variable speed operation.
• VFDs' impact on adjusting motor speed to match the cooling demand, thereby enhancing energy
efficiency.
 Chiller Control Systems(Contd…)
• Sequencing and Optimization:
• Explanation of how control systems manage the sequencing of chiller components.
• Optimization algorithms adjusting chiller operation based on factors like load, ambient conditions, and
energy consumption patterns.
• Fault Detection and Diagnostics:
• Highlighting the inclusion of fault detection and diagnostics in chiller control systems.
• Automated systems identifying irregularities or malfunctions for efficient troubleshooting and reduced
downtime.
• Remote Monitoring and Control:
• Overview of the remote monitoring capabilities of chiller control systems.
• Advantages of accessing and controlling the system from a central location, improving responsiveness
and reducing on-site interventions.
• Integration with Building Management Systems (BMS):
• Stressing the seamless integration of chiller control systems with BMS.
• The centralized platform for comprehensive control and management of HVAC systems within a facility.
 Energy Efficiency in Chillers
• Variable Frequency Drives (VFDs):
• Integration with chiller motors for variable speed operation.
• Optimization of energy consumption by adjusting motor speed based on cooling demand.
• Optimal Chiller Sizing:
• Importance of correctly sizing chillers to match the facility's cooling load.
• Impact on overall system efficiency and energy consumption.
• Heat Recovery Systems:
• Overview of systems capturing and reusing waste heat.
• Applications of recovered heat in space heating or hot water production.
• Integrated Part Load Value (IPLV):
• Definition of IPLV as a measure of chiller efficiency across various load conditions.
• Emphasis on the importance of maintaining high efficiency even during partial loads.
 Energy Efficiency in Chillers(Contd..)
• Advanced Control Algorithms:
• Introduction to microprocessor-based controls with adaptive algorithms.
• Dynamic adjustment of setpoints, sequencing, and component operation for optimal efficiency under varying
conditions.
• Regular Maintenance:
• Highlighting the critical role of routine maintenance in preserving chiller efficiency.
• Key maintenance practices include cleaning coils, checking refrigerant levels, and inspecting system
components.
• Chilled Water Reset Control:
• Explanation of the chilled water reset control strategy.
• Adjusting chilled water temperature based on outdoor conditions and cooling demand for improved
efficiency.
• Monitoring and Benchmarking:
• Stressing the significance of continuous monitoring for real-time adjustments.
• Benchmarking against industry standards to assess and optimize chiller system efficiency.
Chiller Applications

• Commercial Buildings
• Air conditioning for offices, malls, and hotels
• Industrial Processes
• Cooling for manufacturing and production
• Data Centers
• Maintaining optimal temperatures for equipment
Benefits of Chillers

• Efficient cooling for large spaces

• Precise temperature control
• Long lifespan with proper maintenance
• Cost-effective operation
Thank you