Working principle of energy storage water chiller

What is a chiller & how does it work?

Chiller is the heart of the chilled water system. It is the one that produces chilled water or low-temperature water for air handlers or AHUs to perform the cooling and dehumidification process. Chiller is also the most “power-hunger” component. The basic working principle of a chiller is similar to the air conditioner used in our home.

How does a centrifugal chiller work?

These glycol balls have can store a large amount of cooling energy. During the day, large centrifugal chillers supply chilled water to buildings just like standard chilled water systems. However, at night, these chillers will operate at their best efficiency (part-load) to supply chilled water to TES tanks.

What is a water chiller used for?

A water chiller, or chilled water system, is a cooling system that uses water as a secondary refrigerant. They are used for large, complex heating, ventilating, air conditioning, and refrigeration (HVACR) applications. The main loops or circuits of a water chiller are the refrigeration loop and the chilled water loop.

How does a chilled water storage system work?

Most chilled water storage systems installed today are based on designs that exploit the tendency of warm and cold water to stratify. That is, cold water can be added to or drawn from the bottom of the tank, while warm water is returned to or drawn from the top.

What temperature does a water chiller store water?

Chilled water systems typically store supply water at 39°F to 42°F, which is compatible with most water chillers and distribution systems. Return temperatures are typically in the range of 55°F to 60°F or higher. Stratified low-temperature-fluid TES systems operate similarly but with lower supply temperatures, typically between 29°F and 36°F.

How do water cooled chillers work?

A large portion of their surface area is used to spread out water so that the water cools better. They use fans to draw the ambient air through the water. As the water evaporates, its temperature drops. Water-cooled chillers transfer the heat they absorb from the chilled water to what’s called the condenser water.