Energy Audit of a Central HVAC Chiller Plant with focus on kW/TR Optimization
Jayesh Anavkar1, Huzaif Gadkari2, Naved Hunerkar3, Afnan Shirgaonkar4, Shaad Sakharkar5
Jayesh Anavkar, Mechanical Engineering & Finolex Academy of Management and Technology, Ratnagiri, India
Huzaif Gadkari, Mechanical Engineering & Finolex Academy of Management and Technology, Ratnagiri, India
Naved Hunerkar, Mechanical Engineering & Finolex Academy of Management and Technology, Ratnagiri, India
Afnan Shirgaonkar, Mechanical Engineering & Finolex Academy of Management and Technology, Ratnagiri, India
Shaad Sakharkar, Mechanical Engineering & Finolex Academy of Management and Technology, Ratnagiri, India
Abstract:
Energy efficiency in HVAC systems is a major concern due to increasing energy demand and operational costs. Chiller plants are among the largest energy consumers in commercial and industrial facilities. This study presents a detailed energy audit of a chiller plant to evaluate its performance and identify opportunities for energy savings. Key parameters such as chilled water temperature, condenser water temperature, flow rates, and power consumption were measured and analysed.
The performance of the system was assessed using indicators such as Coefficient of Performance (COP) and kW/TR. The audit revealed inefficiencies due to improper load management, heat exchanger fouling, and suboptimal operating conditions. Based on the analysis, several energy conservation measures (ECMs) were proposed, including optimization of cooling tower operation, implementation of variable frequency drives (VFDs), and improved maintenance practices.
The implementation of these measures resulted in a significant improvement in system efficiency and enhanced operational performance. The study demonstrates that systematic energy auditing and optimization can lead to substantial cost savings and sustainable operation of chiller plants.
Keywords: Energy Audit, Energy Efficiency, Coefficient of Performance (COP), kW/TR, Performance Analysis
