The Ultimate Cooling Showdown: Centrifugal vs. Screw Chillers – Which Powers Your Ice Thermal Storage Better
In the pursuit of building energy efficiency, ice thermal storage systems stand out as a transformative solution. By producing ice during off-peak nighttime hours and utilizing it for cooling during daytime peak periods, these systems significantly cut energy costs and reduce grid strain. At the core of this technology lies a critical decision: choosing the right chiller technology—centrifugal or screw. This guide explores their differences and offers insights into making the best choice for your specific needs. Centrifugal vs. Screw Chillers: Core Advantages Centrifugal Chillers Centrifugal units compress refrigerant using high-speed impellers, boasting high single-unit capacity (often >2,000 RT) and exceptional energy efficiency (IPLV ratings over 10.0). Ideal for super-large commercial projects, they maintain strong partial load performance between 40%–100%. However, they are prone to surge effects at low loads and typically require variable frequency drives or multi-head d...