Various industries depend on chillers because they deliver accurate temperature management systems for production, manufacturing and processing methods. Chillers protect equipment function and prevent excessive heating in laboratory testing areas, manufacturing, and medical facilities. As a temperature control technology leader, JULABO creates high-performance chillers to fulfill industrial requirements across diverse sectors.

What is a Chiller?

A chiller is a machine that functions as a heat removal device that transfers heat from fluids alongside spaces to cooling media consisting of either air or water. Equipment and product temperature control relies on this essential process. Heat transfer occurs through phase changes of the refrigerant using the refrigeration cycle components of the evaporator, compressor, condenser and expansion valve.

The Science Behind Chillers

Chillers function through the principles of the second law of thermodynamics: heat naturally flows from warmer objects to colder ones. The heat transfer from process fluids to refrigerants occurs through the application of this fundamental principle within chillers. The refrigerant travels through the system by absorbing heat in the evaporator and being compressed for temperature elevation before heat is released to the condenser until returning to the evaporator for another cycle.

Types of Chillers: Air-Cooled vs. Water-Cooled

• Air-Cooled Chillers: These chiller units require ambient air to function by cooling the refrigerant. They provide a suitable option for buildings that lack abundant water resources and demand minimal upkeep. Air-cooled chillers serve buildings of diverse sizes from small to medium, such as restaurants and temporary structures.

• Water-Cooled chillers: These are commonly used in large facilities like hospitals, airports, and shopping malls. They depend on a cooling tower system that uses water to extract heat from the refrigerant. The system operates efficiently with a long operating time although it needs regular maintenance along with sufficient water availability.

• Comparison: Chillers that use water cooling provide better efficiency and longer operational life compared to chillers that draw heat through the air, but have lower installation costs. It is important to select cooling systems based on their dimensions, funding capacity, and heat requirements.

You can check our previous blog about air-cooled and water-cooled chillers for deeper insights.

Common Problems Faced by Chillers

• Poor Maintenance: Determined maintenance procedures offer essential benefits for proper chiller operation. Operating without maintenance causes chillers to experience worse cooling capabilities, more energy expenses and equipment malfunctions. Chillers must feature automatic self-test functions and sensor systems that identify problems in their early stages. Both easy-access filling systems and clear liquid-level indicators help users execute routine maintenance tasks easily.

• Dust Accumulation: The condenser coils of air-cooled chillers face a significant risk of dust accumulation which blocks airflow while lowering their heat exchange capabilities. The best practice for maintaining airflow and optimal cooling performance includes design features such as removable venting grids that simplify maintenance procedures.

• Corrosion: Metal components, including copper and carbon steel tubes, become subject to corrosion whenever they encounter untreated water in combination with varying oxygen levels. To prevent rust, the system must use materials that resist corrosion and operate in constant stable conditions. High-temperature stability and reliable pressure indicators work to prevent corrosion.

• Clogged Components: System components experience reduced heat transfer efficiency due to the buildup of sediment, minerals, and particulates. The combination of a filtration system and easily accessible drain taps for regular flushing operations prevents pipe clogging. Liquid-level protection systems help monitoring processes prevent the accumulation of buildup before damage occurs.

• Electrical Issues: The failure of electrical components results from power surges, insulation problems, and system overload conditions. Advanced electrical protection systems that include pump and compressor overload protection keep systems in a stable state. RS232 interfaces allow PC integration with remote diagnostic functions which enables fast electrical problem resolution.

How JULABO Addresses These Challenges

JULABO's range of chillers and recirculating coolers are designed with features that address these common operational challenges, ensuring reliable performance and ease of maintenance:

• JULABO FC Chiller Features:

• High-temperature stability and integrated heating for consistent performance.

• Available in air-cooled (FC) and water-cooled (FCW) variants to suit different environmental needs.

• Compact design enables flexible lab setups, fitting easily under lab benches.

• Bright MULTI-DISPLAY (LED) for clear visibility of setpoints and actual values.

• Automatic self-test at startup and sensor monitoring ensure early detection of maintenance issues.

• Comprehensive safety features like freeze and dry running protection provide added reliability.

• A removable venting grid simplifies dust removal, enhancing airflow and cooling efficiency.

• RS232 interface for seamless PC integration and remote monitoring.

• Easy front-filling system with liquid level indicators for hassle-free maintenance.

• Integrated pressure indicators and pump activation streamline operations.

• JULABO FL Recirculating Cooler Features:

• Environmentally friendly and economical, designed for routine cooling applications.

• Temperature stability with PID control (±0.5°C) ensures precise temperature management.

• Available in air-cooled (FL) and water-cooled (FLW) models for versatile applications.

• Splash-proof keypad and large, bright LED display for user-friendly operation.

• Reliable microprocessor PID temperature control for consistent performance.

• Powerful immersion pumps support continuous operation and efficient heat transfer.

• Easy-access top filling and drain taps simplify maintenance.

• Low liquid level protection with optical and audible alarms prevents system failures.

• Space-saving design with no side vents allows placement next to other equipment.

• RS232 interface enables PC connection for advanced monitoring.

• Models available with cooling capacities up to 20 kW to meet a wide range of cooling needs.

MSE Supplies provides our customers with JULABO's innovative cooling solutions together with a complete selection of laboratory equipment and supplies. We assist customers through our technical support, consultation services, and wide product availability to discover optimized solutions for each application. “CONTACT US NOW”

The cooling systems manufactured by JULABO offer solutions to standard problems such as dust prevention and steady temperature management. The innovative technologies of JULABO's products merged with MSE Supplies' industry knowledge and wide product portfolio deliver complete solutions for laboratory and industrial facilities. 

Ready to enhance your cooling systems? Explore JULABO’s full range of chillers and recirculating coolers at MSE Supplies. Visit our product page or reach out to our team for customized recommendations suited to your specific applications.

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