A chiller system is the backbone of internal ambience control for industrial and commercial units. A chiller system is preferred more than an HVAC unit when precise control over temperature is required.
Components of a chiller and their functions
Every component in a chiller plays a critical role. In fact, their coordinated functions keep a chiller running smoothly for hours.
Compressor
A compressor is the core of an industrial chiller. Its prime function is the increase the pressure of the refrigerant and let it flow through the system. Here, the refrigerant
Different types of compressors are used in industrial chillers considering the mode of operations. They are:
- Reciprocating Compressors
This compressor works like an internal combustion engine. It has a piston that moves back and forth to compress a refrigerant. These compressors are generally used in the small and medium-sized chillers.
- Scroll Compressors
This compressor is made of two spiral scrolls. One of them is fixed and the other moves on it. The moving scroll compresses the refrigerant by rotating around the fixed one. These compressors are quieter than the other compressors.
- Screw Compressors
As the name suggests, two rotating screws compress the refrigerant. They offer higher efficiency than the other types. Hence, they are used in large-sized industrial chillers.
- Centrifugal Compressors
These compressors use centrifugal force to compress refrigerant. Such compressors are generally used in large chilling units designed for industrial applications.
Condenser
A condenser is the cooling unit of an industrial chiller. Here, the compressed refrigerant releases the heat it absorbed during the compression process. They are of two types:
- Air-cooled Condensers
These condensers blow air over the condenser coils to let the refrigerant lose heat and cool down. This type of condenser is used in small chiller systems.
- Water-cooled Condensers
This type of condenser uses water to cool down the compressed refrigerant. The water then is sent to a cooling tower after absorbing the heat. Such condensers are used in large industrial chillers.
Evaporator
As the name suggests, an evaporator is where a chiller absorbs heat from another medium (air or water). The refrigerant immediately vaporises after heat absorption. Evaporators are of two types.
Shell and Tube Evaporators
These evaporators have copper tubes inside a metal sheet. Water flows through these tubes. The refrigerant inside the copper pipes absorbs heat from water flowing over them.
Plate Evaporators
Thin metal plates make these evaporators. This type of evaporator is more compact than the previous version. Heat transfer takes place in these plates. Such evaporators are ideal for small industrial chillers.
Thermal Expansion Valve (TXV)
The thermal expansion valve is responsible for controlling the flow of refrigerant into the evaporator. It also reduces the pressure of the refrigerant and controls the flow for better heat absorption. This valve is categorised into two types.
Mechanical TXV
Such valves use a sensing bulb to measure the temperature of the refrigerant when it leaves the evaporator. The temperature measurement determines the flow rate.
Electronic Expansion Valve (EEV)
An electronic expansion valve uses a motor to control the flow of refrigerant in the evaporator. It is more precise than mechanical TXV and offers better control.
Power Unit
The power unit is responsible for supplying a steady flow of electricity to the industrial chiller. The key components are starters, breakers, and power monitors. This power unit also handles fluctuations in the power supply to save the chiller components and maintain the output efficiency.
Control Panel
A control panel in an industrial chiller helps operators to monitor and control temperature. It also allows measuring and controlling the flow rates and pressure for better output. Modern control panels have sensors, alarms, and display screens for better monitoring and real-time adjustments.
Why should you know about the components of an industrial chiller?
These components are the cogs of an industrial chiller. Their functions explain how a chiller system works at a large scale. Their roles will also assist you to choose the right components for precise indoor temperature control.
Tempcon: The top industrial chiller manufacturer to seek assistance from
Get in touch with Tempcon for optimal industrial chiller solutions. Our solutions are tailored to your factory-specific needs. They are engineered to ensure that your commercial premises are compliant with the latest industry regulations. Learn more about the components and working principle of industrial chillers with us to choose the right option.
