Chiller common faults and solutions are introduced

To ensure the safe, efficient, and economical long-term normal operation of the chiller unit, it is crucial to detect potential faults as early as possible during its use. Operators can achieve this goal by "observing, touching, listening, and thinking".

First, observe: observe the operation of the chiller unit.

1. Temperature and pressure at the inlet and outlet of the evaporator's cold water.

2. Temperature and pressure at the inlet and outlet of the condenser cooling water.

3. The pressure and temperature of the refrigerant in the evaporator.

4. The pressure and temperature of the refrigerant in the condenser.

5. Current and voltage of the main motor.

6. Pressure and temperature of lubricating oil.

7. Check whether the compressor unit operates smoothly and if there are any abnormal noises.

8. Check if there are any leaks in the valves of the unit.

9. Check whether the connections with various water pipes are tight.

In addition, attention should be paid to some external indications of the chiller unit. For example, the occurrence of frosting on the compressor's suction pipe indicates that the cooling capacity of the chiller is too large, the evaporation temperature is too low, the compressor's suction superheat is small, and the suction pressure is low. This can cause liquid hammer in piston-type units and surge in centrifugal chillers.

Second inspection: Touch various parts and pipelines (gas pipe, liquid pipe, water pipe, oil pipe, etc.) of the chiller unit, observe the operating temperature of the compressor and whether it vibrates, the inlet and outlet temperatures of the two devices, the oil stains and distribution at the pipeline joints, etc.

Under normal conditions, the compressor operates smoothly, with a large temperature difference between suction and discharge, and the machine body temperature does not rise excessively; the condensation temperature is high, and there is a large temperature difference between the inlet and outlet of the cooling water; there is no refrigerant leakage or oil contamination at the joints of various pipelines. Any behavior contrary to the above conditions indicates that there is a potential fault in the corresponding part.

Three Listens: Besides listening to whether the overall sound during the operation of the chiller unit conforms to the normal operating sound pattern, the focus should be on listening for any abnormal sounds from equipment such as the compressor, lubricating oil pump, solenoid valve, and throttle valve of the chiller unit.

For example, if the compressor emits a slight "chachach" sound or a continuous and uniform "buzzing" sound during operation, it indicates that the compressor is operating normally; if you hear a "dongdongdong" sound or the impeller rotates intermittently or with abnormal vibration, it indicates that the compressor has experienced liquid hammer or surge.

Fourth, we should conduct a comprehensive analysis of the operational data of the chiller unit obtained from relevant indicating instruments and through observation, listening, and touching, to identify the basic cause of the malfunction and consider what emergency measures should be taken.