At LAVA Consultants, we use Computational Fluid Dynamics (CFD) to analyse and optimise airflow in chiller yards, helping designers and facility operators improve system efficiency, reduce energy consumption, and extend equipment life.
Inadequate airflow management within chiller yards can lead to hot air recirculation, where exhaust air expelled from one chiller is drawn into the intake of another. This raises the inlet air temperature, reducing the capacity to reject heat and reducing the efficiency of the chiller.
This can result in:
By simulating airflow patterns and temperature distribution using CFD, issues related to air recirculation can be identified.
A typical CFD study of a chiller yard includes the following steps:
Step 1: 3D Modelling of the Yard
A 3D model of the yard will be created incorporating chiller units, their intake and exhaust configurations, nearby buildings and any other obstructions that may affect the surrounding airflow.
Step 2: Defining Environmental Conditions
Simulations will be run under multiple wind speeds to understand airflow behaviour during both typical and adverse weather conditions.
Step 3: Simulation of Airflow and Temperature
CFD tools will predict how air moves through the space to identify where it may stagnate or recirculate, and how temperatures are affected across the yard.
Step 4: Analysis and Recommendations
Key outputs of the simulation include:
Depending on the findings, design improvements may include increasing spacing between units or installing vertical barriers. These interventions can potentially reduce energy consumption.
Chiller yard CFD analysis is valuable for:
Whether for new design verification or retrofit upgrades, CFD helps ensure that HVAC systems perform as intended in real-world conditions.
Lava Consultants offers expert CFD solutions tailored to the built environment. If you’re facing performance issues with your cooling system reach out to us for a consultation.
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