Primary System Components

by reducing motor speed at “low-lift” conditions, when cooler condenser water is available.

Certain system characteristics favor the application of an AFD, including:

•A substantial number of part-load operating hours (for example, when an air- or water-economizer is not installed in the system)

•The availability of cooler condenser water (condenser-water reset)

•Chilled-water reset control

Chiller savings using condenser- and chilled-water-temperature reset, however, should be balanced against the increase in pumping and cooling- tower energy. Performing a comprehensive energy analysis is the best method of determining whether an AFD is desirable. It is important to use actual utility costs, not a “combined” cost, for demand and consumption charges. It is also important to include drive maintenance and replacement costs, since the drive life is shorter than the chiller life. See “Energy and economic analysis of alternatives” on page 26.

Depending on the application, it may make sense to use the additional money that would be needed to purchase an AFD to purchase a more efficient chiller instead. This is especially true if demand charges are significant, or if the condenser water is close to its design temperature most of the time (e.g., in a hot and humid climate such as Miami).

Consider the following analysis of an 800-ton office building with two chillers. The analysis compares equally priced high efficiency or AFD- equipped chillers, as one or both of the chillers. Utility costs for the combined or “blended” rate are $0.10 per kWh and for the actual rate are $12 per kW and $0.06 per kWh.

Simple paybacks using the combined rate analysis show almost no difference between the two options (Table 2). However, when utility costs with an actual consumption and demand component are used, the difference between the alternatives is much more pronounced. The conclusion is that using actual energy rates matters a great deal.

Table 2. Analysis of high-efficiency chiller options with combined vs actual rates

Simple paybacks, humid climate

Combined rate

Actual rate

 

 

 

AFD on both chillers

7.2

12.7

 

 

 

High efficiency on both chillers

7.1

8.3

 

 

 

AFD on one chiller

6.1

10.8

 

 

 

High efficiency on one chiller

6.3

7.7

 

 

 

SYS-APM001-EN

Chiller System Design and Control

17

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Trane SYS-APM001-EN manual AFD on both chillers
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SYS-APM001-EN specifications

The Trane SYS-APM001-EN is an advanced control system designed for HVAC (Heating, Ventilation, and Air Conditioning) applications, specifically tailored to enhance energy efficiency and system performance. This comprehensive solution integrates cutting-edge technologies to optimize climate control in commercial and industrial environments.

One of the main features of the SYS-APM001-EN is its intuitive user interface. The system is equipped with a large, easy-to-read display that provides real-time data on system performance, energy usage, and environmental conditions. This user-friendly interface makes it simple for operators to monitor and adjust settings, ensuring optimal comfort levels and efficient energy consumption.

Another key characteristic of the SYS-APM001-EN is its advanced data analytics capabilities. The system collects and analyzes data from various sensors throughout the building, providing insights into occupancy patterns, equipment performance, and energy consumption trends. This data-driven approach allows facility managers to make informed decisions about system adjustments, predictive maintenance, and energy savings.

The SYS-APM001-EN also boasts robust integration capabilities. It can seamlessly connect with a variety of building management systems (BMS) and other third-party devices. This interoperability enables a cohesive operational ecosystem where HVAC systems can communicate and cooperate with lighting, security, and fire safety systems, enhancing overall building efficiency.

Energy efficiency is a hallmark of the SYS-APM001-EN, as it implements sophisticated algorithms to optimize system operation. These algorithms adjust equipment performance in real-time based on current conditions, thereby reducing energy waste and lowering operational costs. The system is designed to support multiple energy-saving strategies, including demand-controlled ventilation and optimal start/stop scheduling.

Additionally, the SYS-APM001-EN is built with scalability in mind, accommodating facilities of various sizes and configurations. Whether it’s a small office building or a large industrial complex, the system can be tailored to meet specific needs, ensuring that HVAC performance aligns with operational goals.

In conclusion, the Trane SYS-APM001-EN is an innovative HVAC control solution that emphasizes user experience, data-driven decision-making, and energy efficiency. With its advanced features and technologies, it is an essential tool for optimizing building performance and enhancing occupant comfort while reducing environmental impact.
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