Process cooling varies across industries, depending on specific equipment and applications. One type of process cooling equipment is the air-cooled chiller. This refrigeration system cools fluids and operates in conjunction with a facility's air handler system. Unlike systems that use cooling towers, air-cooled chillers rely on fans to expel heat from the building, enhancing their versatility for various operational scales, from small setups to large venues like outdoor malls and theme parks.
An air-cooled chiller consists of four key components—a condenser, compressor, evaporator, and expansion valve. Despite housing these complex components, air-cooled chillers are designed to be compact, which makes them easy to install and maintain. Their portability is a significant advantage, allowing for quick setup in emergency situations or at large events. The simplicity of their structure also makes air-cooled chillers easier to operate compared to their water-cooled counterparts.
Some industries require a scalable cooling solution that grows with their business. One of the benefits of air-cooled chillers is they can be stacked to boost their cooling capacity. This is why they are also referred to as modular chillers. With a scroll compressor, the maximum cooling capacity can be greater.
An air-cooled chiller is generally equipped with at least two compressors. This design ensures that if one compressor encounters an issue, the other can continue to operate, maintaining cooling functions albeit at a reduced total capacity.
A well-made and properly sized chiller is designed to minimize operational failures, providing smooth and reliable operations. These chillers feature large aluminum condensers coated with epoxy for durability and are equipped with dependable axial fans. These components work together to effectively remove heat and maintain performance, even under challenging working conditions.
Since an air chiller uses air, it makes a suitable alternative to water-cooled chillers in places with poor water quality or a scarce water source. Moreover, it’s a low-maintenance solution for various working conditions and applications, such as:
High-ambient temperature (up to 60 degrees Celsius)
Medical, food processing, or pharmaceutical use cooling
Surface treatment
In addition, manufacturers can customize an air-cooled chiller for specific requirements. For example, they can equip stainless steel heat exchangers for medical or food process cooling or increase the corrosion resistance of heat exchangers against acids for surface treatments.
The efficiency and durability of air chillers are significantly influenced by the quality of their components. Top manufacturers of air-cooled chillers select parts from well-known brands such as Copeland and Danfoss. A premium industrial air chiller, ranging from 1 Kw to 184.8 KW, typically includes a hermetic scroll compressor from these brands. This compressor comes with an integrated hydronic module that incorporates both the chilled water pump and tank.
For central cooling applications, manufacturers opt for Hanbell or Bitzer semi-hermetic screw compressors, along with a Siemens Smart Series programmable logic controller. Additionally, low-temperature air-cooled chillers often incorporate Schneider electric parts of the European version, known for their extended service life and stable performance. These high-quality electrical components are also more resistant to circuit aging.
High-quality air-cooled chiller equipped with smart microprocessor controllers add significant convenience, particularly in demanding environments. These systems feature an audible alarm to alert operators of any operational failures. Furthermore, operators can easily monitor the status and precisely control the temperature through a user-friendly text display.
Manufacturers can also tailor these chillers for specific needs. For example, they might add an expansion tank to maintain stable water circuit pressure, utilize R134a refrigerant suitable for ambient temperatures up to 60 degrees Celsius, and implement a color touchscreen combined with a PLC control system compatible with PROFINET connections. These customizations ensure the chiller meets the specific requirements of various applications.
Let SENHO customize an appropriate-sized air chiller for your business. The company offers a comprehensive selection of air-cooled chillers for various applications and industries. All SENHO chillers are designed and manufactured in-house and covered by the best warranties for worry-free use.
