Evaluation of the technical and economic performance of energy-efficient engine driven chillers (EDC)

The use of internal combustion, reciprocating engine drives was extremely popular about 30 years ago to power air conditioning and refrigeration compressors. By far the most popular fuel of choice for these drives was natural gas supplied by the local gas utility. After demonstrating its capabilities on the job, the reciprocating engine drive earned industry acceptance as one of the conventional drives. Because of the increasing number of electric generating plants being constructed during that period, the availability of electrical power grew, and the rates for electric energy became lower. This caused the operation of many of the engine driven air conditioning and refrigeration systems to become uneconomical. However, some systems installed during that period remain operational today. Once again, the use of internal combustion reciprocating engine drives has become acceptable and considered one of the conventional drivers. The use of Engine Driven Chillers (EDC) and of the associated new technology and controls is being endorsed as one of the most economical and efficient chilling methods available. This article provides material and guidance useful to all who have an interest in the application of Engine Driven Chillers and Refrigeration systems. This information can be used to prepare or develop amore » preliminary feasibility or economic study but is not intended for system sizing or design. Determination of the actual size and characteristics of a cooling system for a given facility is the responsibility of a professional engineer.« less