Why fluid handling is fundamental to energy efficiency

Jan. 14, 2016
Set up periodic sampling programs and trend the results to manage the fluids in your refrigeration and chiller systems.

Generally, my work at a plant starts not because someone calls to improve the refrigeration and chiller systems’ energy efficiency but because of an over-arching issue, e.g., system capacity not being met; inability to maintain temperatures; system failures, etc. Irrespective of the issues and problems in the refrigeration and chiller systems, methodology starts with a systems-approach-based data collection and an energy assessment.

So what does fluid management mean? The best explanation and analogy I can give you is our own body. We go for a physical exam periodically. We give blood and urine samples, which are sent to labs for analysis. Then at the doctor’s visit, we get our vitals monitored. The doctor combines the information from the lab reports and the vitals to provide a health assessment complete with potential issues and improvements to make for a long and healthy life.

This process is identical to what happens in our refrigeration and chiller systems. The fluids that circulate through the system — refrigerant, oil, water, brine, glycol, etc. —should be managed; they reveal information about the system’s performance and reliability. Understanding the sample test results of these fluids can provide a wealth of valuable information for a root-cause analysis. Combining this information with operating data from the system provides the cause-effect relationship, which often gets overlooked.

To learn more about fluid handling, read “Mind Your Refrigeration Systems, Part I” from Chemical Processing.

Sponsored Recommendations

A Paradigm Shift in Pump Selection

Jan. 22, 2025
Discover how INNOMAG® is transforming pump selection with innovative design and unparalleled performance. Learn how this breakthrough solution simplifies operations, enhances ...

The Need for Speed: The Most Advanced Sealless Pump is Also the Fastest

Jan. 14, 2025
Struggling with a troublesome pump? Get a reliable solution in just five days with the fastest, most advanced sealless pump on the market.

Say Goodbye to Pumping’s Weakest Links

Jan. 14, 2025
Shaft seals and ball bearings cause nearly 80% of pump failures—but not with INNOMAG®. With no seals, no bearings, and a thrust-balanced design, these pumps deliver unmatched ...

Ready to Reduce the Cost of Energy with a Highly Efficient, More Forgiving Pump?

Jan. 14, 2025
INNOMAG® pumps save energy and maintain peak efficiency over time—no wear and tear. Discover how they can lower your operating costs and increase reliability.