The contamination of refrigerant water can have multiple adverse effects on LiBr absorption refrigeration units. Here are the primary issues that may arise due to refrigerant water contamination:

 1. Reduced Cooling Efficiency

Decreased Absorption Performance: Refrigerant water contamination can impair the absorption performance of the LiBr solution. Contaminants can hinder the solution's ability to absorb water vapor, thus reducing the cooling efficiency of the unit.

Decreased Heat Transfer Efficiency: Contaminants can accumulate on the surface of heat exchangers, forming a layer of fouling. This significantly reduces the heat transfer efficiency and lowers the unit's overall energy efficiency.

2. Corrosion Problems

Corrosion of Metal Components: Contaminants in the water (such as chloride ions and sulfate ions) can accelerate the corrosion of the internal metal components of the unit, shortening the equipment's lifespan.

Solution Contamination: Corrosion products may dissolve into the LiBr solution, further degrading its quality and affecting its absorption and heat transfer performance.

3. Scaling Issues

Pipeline Blockage: Minerals in the water (such as calcium and magnesium) can form scale at high temperatures, depositing on the inner walls of pipelines and heat exchanger surfaces. This can lead to pipeline blockages and reduced heat transfer efficiency.

Increased Maintenance Frequency: Scaling increases the frequency of equipment cleaning and maintenance, raising operating costs.

4. System Instability

Temperature Fluctuations: Contaminants can cause temperature and pressure fluctuations within the system, affecting the unit's stable operation and potentially leading to frequent starts and stops and increased energy consumption.

Solution Concentration Imbalance: The concentration and ratio of the LiBr solution are critical to system performance. Contaminants can cause imbalances in the solution concentration, affecting the system's normal operation.

5. Increased Failure Rate

Increased Component Wear: Contaminants can accelerate the wear of internal components, increasing the failure rate of parts and raising maintenance costs.

Reduced Operational Reliability: Contamination-induced failures can reduce the operational reliability of the unit, potentially causing unexpected shutdowns and production interruptions.

As an expert in LiBr absorption chillers and heat pumps, Hope Deepblue has abundant experience in the operation and maintenance of these units. So in the event of cold water pollution, what measures should we take?