Compressor

Definition

The chiller component that squeezes low-pressure refrigerant vapor into a superheated high-pressure gas, raising both pressure and temperature.

Compression is the primary energy input to the chiller, the electricity that powers it, and it does the thermodynamic work of lifting heat from low to high temperature. The compressor also adds heat to the system, about 3,000 BTU per hour per ton, which the tower must reject. When the condenser fouls, the compressor must work harder, raising energy use.

Related concepts

Condenser · Cooling tower ton · Pressure control of phase change

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Part of The Blueprint of Water · 🛠️ operations