The Effect of Cooling Water Volume and Chilled Water Volume on Cooling Capacity
1. Effect of Cooling Water Volume on Cooling Capacity
Under stable conditions and within a certain range:
- Cooling water volume decrease: A 10% reduction in cooling water volume results in a cooling capacity decrease of about 3%.
- Cooling water volume increase: A corresponding rise in cooling water volume improves cooling capacity.
However, variations in cooling water volume also impact critical operating parameters, such as:
- Evaporating pressure.
- Condensing temperature.
- Dilute solution outlet temperature (from the absorber).
- Concentrated solution outlet temperature (from the generator).
Additionally, changes in cooling water flow rate alter the flow velocity in the heat exchanger tubes of the absorber and condenser, thereby affecting the heat transfer coefficient.
2. Effect of Chilled Water Volume on Cooling Capacity
When the chilled water outlet temperature from the evaporator is constant:
- Within a certain range, changes in chilled water volume have minimal impact on cooling capacity because:
- Reduced chilled water volume increases the inlet temperature, raising the average temperature difference.
- Reduced chilled water volume lowers the tube flow rate, decreasing the heat transfer coefficient.
- These effects counterbalance each other, keeping the cooling capacity nearly unchanged.
Critical Note on Design Values
Both cooling water and chilled water volumes should remain within their design specifications:
- Cooling water volume should not exceed 120% of the design value as per Chinese standards.
- Exceeding this limit may cause excessive flow rates in the heat transfer tubes, leading to scouring corrosion, which can significantly reduce the unit's service life.
Adhering to design parameters is essential for the optimal performance and longevity of the LiBr absorption unit.
Post time: Nov-15-2024