An absorption chiller is a type of refrigeration system that uses a heat source to generate cooling. Unlike conventional refrigeration systems that use electricity to run a compressor, absorption chillers use a thermal process to produce chilled water or other cooling fluids.
The basic working principle of an absorption chiller involves the use of a refrigerant, such as water, ammonia or lithium bromide, and an absorbent, such as lithium bromide or ammonia, which work together to produce the cooling effect. The refrigerant is evaporated by heat input, which is usually provided by hot water or steam, while the absorbent is used to absorb the vaporized refrigerant.
The absorbed refrigerant is then separated from the absorbent by applying heat, and the cycle is repeated. The process requires less energy than traditional compression refrigeration, making absorption chillers particularly useful in applications where waste heat is readily available, such as industrial processes, combined heat and power systems, and solar cooling.
Absorption chillers can be used in a variety of applications, from air conditioning for buildings to process cooling for manufacturing facilities. They are also used in large-scale district cooling systems, where a centralized plant generates cooling that is distributed to multiple buildings through a network of pipes.
Overall, absorption chillers are a reliable and energy-efficient alternative to traditional compression refrigeration systems, especially in applications where waste heat is available or where electricity costs are high.
