Air Cooled Chillers
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Air Cooled Chillers – Working, Types, Benefits, Applications & Selection Guide
When it comes to industrial cooling, comfort air-conditioning, or process temperature control, Air Cooled Chillers are one of the most reliable and widely used cooling systems in India. From small commercial buildings to large manufacturing plants, air cooled chillers offer simple installation, low maintenance, and dependable performance, even in harsh Indian weather conditions.
In this detailed guide, we will explain what an air cooled chiller is, how it works, types of air cooled chillers, where they are used, benefits, and a practical example of how to calculate TR (Tonnage of Refrigeration) for an air cooled scroll chiller—all in simple, easy-to-understand language..
What is an Air Cooled Chiller?
An air cooled chiller is a refrigeration system that removes heat from water or process fluid and rejects that heat directly to the atmosphere using air-cooled condensers and fans.
Unlike water cooled chillers, air cooled chillers do not require a cooling tower, condenser water pump, or large water consumption. This makes them an ideal choice for locations where water availability is limited, maintenance needs to be minimal, or installation space is restricted.
In simple words:
Air cooled chiller = Cooling using air, not water
Air cooled chillers are a practical, cost-effective, and reliable cooling solution for both commercial and industrial applications. With simple installation, low maintenance, and no water dependency, they are perfectly suited for Indian operating conditions.
Understanding the types, applications, and correct TR calculation helps you make an informed decision and avoid costly mistakes.
If you’re planning to install or upgrade an air cooled chiller, always choose a trusted manufacturer and service partner—because cooling is not just about machines, it’s about performance, reliability, and peace of mind.
Advantages of Air Cooled Chillers
“Efficient cooling without water dependency.
Smart, reliable, and ready for any climate.”
One
No Cooling Tower Required= Uses ambient air for heat rejection, so no cooling tower, make-up water, or associated piping is needed.
Two
Low Installation Cost= Simple system design reduces civil work, piping, and auxiliary equipment costs.
Three
Water Saving= Ideal for areas with water scarcity since it does not consume water for condenser cooling.
Process of Air cooled Chiller
How Does an Air Cooled Chiller Work?
An air cooled chiller works on the vapour compression refrigeration cycle, which includes four main components:
Compressor
Condenser (Air Cooled)
Expansion Valve
Evaporator
Step-by-Step Working Process
The compressor compresses the refrigerant gas, increasing its pressure and temperature.
The hot refrigerant passes through the air cooled condenser, where axial fans blow ambient air across condenser coils.
Heat is rejected to the air, and the refrigerant changes from gas to liquid.
The liquid refrigerant passes through the expansion valve, where pressure drops.
In the evaporator, refrigerant absorbs heat from chilled water, cooling the water to the required temperature.
The chilled water is circulated to AHUs, FCUs, or industrial processes.
How to calculate Capacity of Air cooled chiller:
Air Cooled Scroll Chiller TR Calculation
Given Data:
Water flow rate = 180 LPM
Inlet water temperature = 12°C
Outlet water temperature = 7°C
Step 1: Calculate ΔT
Step 2: Apply Formula
✅ Required Chiller Capacity = 20 TR
This means you should select a 20 TR air cooled scroll chiller for this application.
Factors to Consider While Selecting an Air Cooled Chiller
Choosing the right chiller ensures energy efficiency and long life.
Key factors include:
Required cooling capacity (TR)
Ambient temperature
Type of application
Operating hours
Power availability
Future expansion
Service support availability
Always consult an experienced chiller manufacturer or service provider like Chillerwala for proper sizing.
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Types & Applications
Types of Air Cooled Chillers
Air cooled chillers are classified based on compressor type and application requirements.
1. Air Cooled Reciprocating Chillers
Ideal for small cooling capacities. Simple design, economical, and suitable for intermittent operation.
2. Air Cooled Scroll Chillers
Known for quiet operation, high efficiency, and compact size. Best for small to medium capacities with continuous and stable loads.
3. Air Cooled Screw Chillers
Designed for medium to large industrial applications. Highly reliable, energy-efficient, and suitable for 24/7 continuous operation.
Applications of Air Cooled Chillers
Air cooled chillers are widely used across multiple industries:
Commercial Buildings (HVAC Systems)
Used for central air conditioning in offices, IT parks, corporate buildings, and business centres to supply chilled water to AHUs and FCUs.
Shopping Malls & Multiplexes
Maintains comfortable indoor temperature for large public spaces with continuous footfall.
Hotels & Resorts
Used for guest room cooling, banquet halls, kitchens, and common areas with quiet and reliable operation.
Hospitals & Healthcare Facilities
Provides precise temperature control for operation theatres, ICUs, patient wards, and medical equipment cooling.
Pharmaceutical Manufacturing Units
Used for reactor cooling, process water cooling, tablet production, capsule filling, and clean room air conditioning.