The Relationship Between Water-cooled Condensers And Chillers

What are water-cooled condensers? How do they relate to chiller systems? This guide will describe how they work and other basic information you need to know.

What is a water-cooled condenser?

A water-cooled condenser is a chiller assembly that removes the heat generated by an industrial or commercial process. Condensers can be thought of as a form of heat exchanger because they both serve similar functions. Thus, a water-cooled condenser is essentially a heat exchanger that removes heat from the refrigerant vapor and transfers it to the water flowing through it. The process involves a heat removal circuit in which the heat from the condenser is dissipated into the surroundings through the water. 

The internal workings of the condenser are responsible for the effectiveness of this process. Its water-cooled design allows the condenser to act as a dedicated heat exchanger, condensing the high temperature and pressure gas from the compressor into a liquid.

In addition to water-cooled, there are also air-cooled and evaporative condensers. However, regardless of the type, all condensers have a similar function. Their job is to cool the process or equipment by transferring heat from the refrigerant gas.

 Bitzer Water-cooled Open-type Piston Condensing Unit (-10~5℃)

The relationship between water-cooled condensers and chillers

The condenser of an industrial chiller system is used as a heat transfer device between the process and its external environment. Water-cooled chillers usually contain condensers connected to a cooling tower. The most common water-cooled chillers use water from an external tower to cool the gaseous refrigerant in the condenser. Once the heat is removed, the refrigerant undergoes a phase change and becomes a liquid to be recirculated back into the system.

In addition, there are three basic types of commercial water-cooled condensers.

• Tube-in-tube (dual tube) - In this type of condenser, water is pumped into the inner tube and refrigerant flows into the outer tube. Counter-flow is maintained for high heat transfer efficiency.

• Shell and Coil - This type of condenser consists of one or more coils enclosed in welded housing. It can be arranged horizontally or vertically and is usually the most compact and least expensive option.

• Shell and tube - Water is pumped through the tubes while the refrigerant flows into the housing. The installation of a heat sink in the housing allows for better heat transfer. These condensers are cost effective and relatively easy to maintain. They are also common in large chemical processing plants.

 Box Type Water-cooled Chiller

Water-cooled condensers and chiller applications

Water-cooled condensers are used in a variety of popular industries, including medical manufacturing, dairy production, food processing, and brewing.

Water-cooled condenser applications

Drying

Process heating

Space heating

Domestic hot water (toilets, kitchens, showers, etc.)

Flushing systems

Boiler feed water treatment

There are many benefits to using industrial chillers to provide cooling. Water-cooled chillers produce consistent pressure and temperature for your processes, which simplifies your work. In addition, these units recirculate cooling water, minimizing total water usage, reducing costs, and protecting the environment.

Find the right partner for your water-cooled chiller needs

Is a water-cooled condenser right for a chiller application? When you need help choosing the best condenser system for your project, you can count on us! Welcome to contact us.