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Air-Cooled Chiller vs. Water-Cooled Chiller

Air-Cooled Chiller vs. Water-Cooled Chiller, which to use?  Before you attempt to determine if you should use an air-cooled chiller or a water-cooled chiller you need to understand the reason for a chiller.

What is a Chiller?

As stated in an earlier post Air-Cooled Chillers – Answering the What Question, chillers are basically a refrigeration system that work by transferring the heat energy from fluids.   Chillers are used in industrial processes to remove the large amount heat generated by the manufacturing process.  By controlling the process temperature accurately, the equipment and the product being generated are protected.  The life of the manufacturing equipment is extended and defects and unnecessary waste is lowered all by the addition of a chiller  or a chiller system to the process.

So what is an Air-Cooled Chiller?

An air-cooled chiller consists of an evaporator, compressor, condenser and and expansion valve.  Air-cooled chillers use fans to move the ambient air over tubing or a finned coil to cool the refrigerant.  The heat generated is transferred in to the air around the chiller unit.  Often times, the heat discharged by the chiller can be used to warm a space during the colder months.

What are the benefits of using an Air-Cooled Chiller

1. Typically easy to operate
2. Cooling towers are not required
3. Better for the environment – water is not wasted
4. Lower maintenance costs
5. No concern about water being released into the environment in case of a disaster

So what is a Water-Cooled Chiller?

Water-cooled chillers also evaporators, compressors, condensers and and expansion valves. However, water-cooled chillers use water from an external source (most often times a cooling tower) to remove the heat generated.  The usage of water-cooled chillers requires a water source which can create logistical issues.

What are the benefits of using a Water-Cooled Chiller

1. Typically more efficient
2. Initial investment tends to be lower
3. Larger capacities
4. Longer service life
5. Tend to operate quietly

So Which to Choose?

It really depends on your specific needs.  What capacity do you require?  Do you have access to a water source?  What space is available to house the chiller?  Is it indoors?  Outdoors?

Budzar Industries has the capability and experience to design, engineer, and manufacture both air-cooled chillers and water-cooled chillers to your exact requirements.  Our sales team can help you determine the best chiller or chiller system for your process.

Need information specific to your requirements? One of our sales managers can help you. It’s easy, contact our team today.