Types of Condensers

Water cooled condensers absorb heat from process fluid and transfer it to a separate fluid source such as a cooling tower. This type of condenser has a lower condensing temperature than air, allowing more capacity. It also improves system reliability due to lower refrigerant discharge temperature and is lower cost.

water-cooled-condenser

Air cooled condensers provide a refrigerant which absorbs heat from a process fluid and the condenser ultimately discharges the heat to the surrounding air. Air cooled condensers have either a horizontal or vertical discharge indicated by the location of their fans. In cooler climates, adding the economizer allows energy savings by using outside air to assist in the cooling process.

air-cooled-condenser

Chiller and Component Illustration