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Chilled Water

Chilled water is a type of cooling medium that is used in air conditioning systems, industrial processes, and other applications that require cooling. Chilled water is typically produced by a chiller, which is a machine that uses electricity or another energy source to cool water and circulate it through a system of pipes. In a chilled water system, the chilled water is circulated through pipes to air handling units, where it absorbs heat from the surrounding air and returns to the chiller to be cooled again. The cooled water can also be used to cool other processes or equipment, such as data center servers or manufacturing machinery. Chilled water systems are used in a variety of applications, including commercial and industrial buildings, hospitals, universities, and other facilities that require cooling. Chilled water systems are often preferred over other types of cooling systems because they are more energy-efficient and environmentally friendly. Additionally, chilled water systems can be used for both cooling and heating, by using a heat exchanger to transfer heat from the chilled water to the building's heating system. The working principle of chilled water is based on the physical properties of water and the process of heat transfer. Chilled water is produced by a chiller, which cools the water and circulates it through a system of pipes to the areas or equipment that need to be cooled. The chiller works by taking in water from a water source, typically a cooling tower or a well, and circulating it through a refrigeration cycle. The refrigeration cycle uses a compressor, condenser, and evaporator to extract heat from the water and transfer it to the surrounding environment. As the chilled water circulates through the pipes, it absorbs heat from the surrounding air or equipment and returns to the chiller to be cooled again. This process of absorbing heat causes the temperature of the chilled water to rise, which is why it is important for the water to be cooled again before being circulated back through the system. In addition to cooling air or equipment, chilled water can also be used for heating. In this case, a heat exchanger is used to transfer heat from the chilled water to a heating system, such as a hydronic heating system or a radiant floor heating system. The major components in a chilled water system typically include: 1. Chiller: The chiller is the central component of the system that produces chilled water. Chillers can be air-cooled or water-cooled and use a refrigeration cycle to cool the water. 2. Cooling Tower: A cooling tower is used in water-cooled chillers to remove the heat absorbed by the water during the cooling process. The tower evaporates some of the water, which removes the heat and cools the remaining water, which is then returned to the chiller. 3. Pumps: Pumps are used to circulate the chilled water through the system of pipes and to maintain the proper flow rate and pressure. 4. Pipes: Pipes are used to transport the chilled water from the chiller to the areas or equipment that need to be cooled. 5. Air Handling Units (AHUs): AHUs are used to distribute the chilled air to the areas or equipment that need to be cooled. The chilled water flows through a heat exchanger in the AHU, which cools the air and distributes it through the building. 6. Valves and Controls: Valves and controls are used to regulate the flow of chilled water and maintain the proper temperature and pressure in the system. Key manufacturers for Chilled Water There are many companies that manufacture chilled water systems and components. Some of the key manufacturers in the industry include: 1. Carrier: Carrier is a leading manufacturer of air conditioning and refrigeration systems, including chillers and cooling towers. 2. Trane: Trane is a global provider of heating, ventilation, and air conditioning (HVAC) systems, including chillers, air handling units, and controls. 3. Johnson Controls: Johnson Controls is a global diversified technology and industrial leader that provides solutions for the building automation and energy storage industries, including chillers and controls. 4. Daikin: Daikin is a Japanese multinational air conditioning company that offers a range of HVAC products, including chillers and air handling units. 5. Mitsubishi Electric: Mitsubishi Electric is a global leader in the development and production of electrical and electronic equipment, including chillers and cooling towers. 6. York: York is a manufacturer of HVAC equipment, including chillers, air handling units, and controls.