Question

In water cooled chiller system what will happen if we reduce the condensor water 3 gpm/ton to 2 gpm/ton and similarly for evaporative 2.4 gpm/ton to 1.6gpm/ton?

Answer 1

Reducing the condenser water flow rate and evaporator water flow rate in a water-cooled chiller system can have several effects on the system's performance. Here's an overview of what may happen if you decrease the flow rates as mentioned:

1. Condenser Water Flow Rate:

   • Decreasing the condenser water flow rate from 3 gpm/ton to 2 gpm/ton means that less water will pass through the condenser per ton of cooling capacity.
   • As a result, the condenser may experience reduced heat transfer efficiency. The condenser's ability to release heat from the refrigerant to the cooling water may be compromised.
   • The higher temperature difference between the refrigerant and the condenser water may lead to an increase in the condensing temperature and pressure, potentially reducing the overall chiller efficiency.
   • Additionally, the reduced water flow rate may increase the pressure drop across the condenser, causing the chiller to work harder and potentially impacting its reliability.

2. Evaporator Water Flow Rate:

   • Similarly, decreasing the evaporator water flow rate from 2.4 gpm/ton to 1.6 gpm/ton means that less water will flow through the evaporator per ton of cooling capacity.
   • The reduced water flow rate may result in a higher temperature difference between the chilled water and the refrigerant, potentially leading to reduced heat transfer efficiency in the evaporator.
   • With less water passing through the evaporator, the chiller may have a reduced ability to absorb heat from the building or process being cooled.
   • This reduction in heat transfer efficiency and capacity may result in longer run times for the chiller or an increase in the chilled water temperature, impacting the overall cooling effectiveness.

It's important to note that the specific impact on the system will depend on various factors such as the chiller's design, operating conditions, and the specific requirements of the cooling load. Before making any changes to the water flow rates, it is recommended to consult with a qualified HVAC professional or chiller manufacturer to ensure the modifications align with the system's specifications and will not lead to adverse effects or performance issues.