Perhaps the most critical part of an absorption chiller system's operation is the purge unit, which maintains the vacuum within the chiller shell by expelling any air that leaks in. Chiller systems that do not have air leaks are usually trouble-free, efficient, and reliable. The pump should be operated at least once a week, even when the system isn't in use.
Each time the pump is operated, check its effectiveness by isolating it from the system and see if it will pull sufficient vacuum of gauge. If the pump isn't effective, change the oil.
If changing the oil doesn't correct the deterioration in pump performance, inspect the discharge valve, oil distributor and the shaft seal. If these components are cracked or scored, they should be replaced.
If pump condition is satisfactory, purge the unit and check the leak rate by measuring how much air is removed. This task can be accomplished by connecting a hose to the purge pump and immersing the other end in oil.
Determine the leak rate by counting the bubbles that surface over a given period. If a high leak rate is indicated, leak-test the unit.
Source: RSES Service Application Manual
|
