Capacity control in Chiller
"Capacity control" in a chiller refers to the ability to adjust the amount of cooling produced by the
chiller based on the current cooling demand, achieved through various methods like compressor
cycling, variable speed drives (VSDs), hot gas bypass, or by manipulating the refrigerant flow within
the compressor, allowing the chiller to operate efficiently at different load levels without overcooling
the system. [1, 2, 3, 4, 5] ]
Key points about chiller capacity control: [1, 2, 3]
Why it's important: Matching the chiller's cooling output to the actual cooling demand helps
optimize energy efficiency by preventing unnecessary overcooling and reducing unnecessary
runtime. [1, 2, 3]
Common methods: [1, 2, 6]
o Compressor cycling: The simplest method, where the compressor turns on and off
based on the cooling demand, but can lead to temperature fluctuations due to cycling
on/off cycles. [1, 2, 6]
o Variable speed drives (VSDs): Allows adjusting the compressor speed to precisely
control cooling capacity, considered the most energy-efficient method. [1, 4, 7]
o Hot gas bypass: A portion of the hot refrigerant gas is bypassed back to the
evaporator, effectively reducing cooling capacity. [1, 4, 5]
o Suction pressure control: Regulating the pressure at the compressor suction to
modify the amount of refrigerant entering the compressor. [4, 8, 9]
o Compressor staging: Utilizing multiple compressors, turning them on or off as
needed to match the cooling load. [5, 6]
Different types of chillers and their capacity control methods: [1, 3, 9]
Centrifugal chillers: Often use variable speed drives and vane guides to control capacity. [1,
3, 9]
Screw chillers: Can utilize a slider valve to adjust the compression ratio and thus the cooling
capacity. [8, 9, 10]
Reciprocating chillers: May use cylinder unloading or capacity control valves to manage
cooling output. [4, 7]
https://www.processingmagazine.com/process-control-automation/heating-cooling/article/21252595/
chiller-capacity-control
