System Configuration. The system can be configured in any of the arrangements shown on page 62 of the Appendix. The configuration and distance between the chiller and the condenser affects pipe size, refrigerant charge, oil return, and oil charge. Therefore there are limitations that must be adhered to for reliable and optimal operation.
•Leaving water temperature affects discharge line size. Be sure to inform the installing contractor of the leaving water temperature range in which the chiller will be operating
•The total distance between the chiller and condenser must not exceed 200 feet or 300 equivalent pipe feet
•Discharge line risers cannot exceed an elevation difference greater than 100 feet without a 2% efficiency decrease.
•Refer to page 62 of the Appendix for the location of traps.
•Refrigeration lines must not be crossed, i.e., chiller liquid lines are to be piped to condenser liquid lines.
Sizing Refrigerant Lines. To determine field installed liquid and discharge line sizes, first establish the equivalent length of pipe for each line, valve, and elbow. Chiller capacity and leaving water temperature range is also required. See Figure 2 on page 22 for lengths of refrigerant valves and fittings.
Liquid Line Sizing. The liquid line should be sized as small as possible while maintaining acceptable pressure drop to minimize the refrigerant charge. Liquid line risers must not exceed 15 feet from the base of the
Discharge Line Sizing. For horizontal runs, the discharge line should be pitched downward, in the direction of flow, at a rate of 1/2” for every 10 feet. This will allow oil to flow towards the condenser. Discharge line sizing is based on the velocity required for sufficient oil return back to the compressor. See Figure 4 on page 22 for discharge line sizing.
Chapter 3: Installation | 21 of 78 |