Chiller Capacity Calculator

Chiller Configuration

Water-cooled: COP 5.0-6.5 | Air-cooled: COP 2.5-3.5

Load and Capacity Parameters

Recommended standard: 1.10 (10% safety margin)

Evaporator (Chilled Water Side)

Standard HVAC: 6.0°C - 7.0°C
Standard Delta T is 5.0K or 6.0K

Condenser (Heat Rejection Side)

Air-cooled: DB temp | Water-cooled: ECW from Tower (typically 29-30°C)

Fluid and Refrigerant Selection

Set > 0% for sub-zero process fluid freeze prevention

Estimation & Operation Parameters

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Chiller Capacity Selection

Chillers are the heart of HVAC cooling systems. This calculator helps engineers select the right chiller by analyzing cooling load, efficiency (COP/EER), and operating costs. Water-cooled chillers offer higher efficiency but require cooling towers and more maintenance. Air-cooled chillers are simpler but less efficient, especially at high ambient temperatures. Magnetic bearing chillers provide the highest efficiency with oil-free operation and reduced maintenance.

Key Points:
  • Water-cooled chillers: COP 5.0-6.5, require cooling tower, lower operating cost
  • Air-cooled chillers: COP 2.5-3.5, no cooling tower, higher operating cost
  • Magnetic bearing: COP 6.0-8.0, oil-free, lowest maintenance, premium price
  • Absorption chillers: Use heat instead of electricity, COP 0.7-1.2
  • IPLV (Integrated Part Load Value) better represents real-world efficiency than full-load COP
  • Most chillers operate at 60-80% load - select for part-load efficiency
  • 5°C ΔT on chilled water is standard (7°C supply / 12°C return)
  • Oversizing wastes energy; undersizing causes comfort issues
Calculation Steps:
  1. Enter all required parameters
  2. Click "Update Calculation"
  3. Review results and analysis
Formula Variables:
Q Cooling Capacity (kW)
P Power Input (kW)
COP Coefficient of Performance (-)
EER Energy Efficiency Ratio (Btu/W·h)
IPLV Integrated Part Load Value (-)
ṁ Mass Flow Rate (kg/s)
ΔT Temperature Difference (K)
PLR Part Load Ratio (%)