An Absorption Chiller uses thermal energy rather than electricity to produce chilled water, operating with hot water, steam, or waste heat from 130 to 200 degrees Fahrenheit. These chillers are ideal for facilities with thermal energy sources and can significantly reduce electrical demand and operating costs.
Technical Details
Absorption chillers use lithium bromide or ammonia-water solutions to absorb and release refrigerant through heat-driven cycles. Typical capacities range from 5 to 2,000 tons of refrigeration, producing chilled water at 44 to 48 degrees Fahrenheit. Thermal coefficient of performance (COP) ranges from 0.6 to 0.8 for single-effect units and 1.0 to 1.3 for double-effect designs. Systems require 15,000 to 20,000 BTU of thermal input per ton of cooling compared to 3,500 to 4,000 electrical watts for mechanical chillers.
Applications and Advantages
Absorption chillers excel in facilities with cogeneration systems, solar thermal collectors, or waste heat recovery opportunities. Hospitals, universities, and food processing plants benefit from reduced electrical peak demand and improved load factors. Double-effect absorption chillers operating at higher temperatures achieve efficiency comparable to high-efficiency electric chillers. Minimal maintenance and extended equipment lifespan make absorption systems attractive for long-term energy cost reduction.