What is a Vapour Absorption Chiller?

It's a thermally-driven cooling system that uses water/LiBr solution and heat (from steam, hot water, exhaust, or gas) instead of electricity to produce chilled water, drastically reducing energy costs.

Can BROAD chillers run on waste heat?

Yes, our absorption chillers can capture waste heat from industrial processes, generator exhaust, or boiler steam to provide free cooling, resulting in significant OPEX savings.

Do you provide after-sales service in India?

Absolutely. BROAD India provides comprehensive design consultation, commissioning, operator training, and 24/7 after-sales support with remote monitoring capabilities.

Ammonia Chiller vs Absorption Chiller: Key Differences Engineers Should Know

The terms get tangled easily. "Ammonia chiller" can mean either an ammonia-water absorption system or a conventional compressor chiller using ammonia as refrigerant. "Absorption chiller" typically refers to water-lithium bromide systems but technically includes ammonia-water variants. Engineers evaluating cooling options need clarity on what these technologies actually are and where each makes sense.

Here's the definitive comparison between ammonia-based refrigeration and BROAD's water-lithium bromide absorption technology, clarifying the confusion and revealing which applications favor each approach.

Defining the Technologies

Ammonia Vapor Compression

Conventional electric chillers using ammonia (NH₃) as refrigerant. Best for industrial freezing and cold storage requiring sub-zero temperatures.

BROAD Water-LiBr Absorption

Thermal-powered using water as refrigerant (no toxins). standard for HVAC and process cooling above 4°C.

The Critical Distinction: Temperature Range

Temperature range is the primary dividing line for engineers:

BROAD Water-LiBr Absorption: Chilled water down to 4-5°C (above freezing).
Ammonia Systems: Can achieve -30°C or lower. Necessary for food industrial freezing and sub-zero storage.

Safety & Regulation: The Deciding Factor

Topic	Ammonia Systems (NH₃)	BROAD Water-LiBr
Toxicity	Highly Toxic (IDLH: 300 ppm)	None (Water)
Flammability	Flammable (15-28% range)	Non-flammable
Compliance	PSM/RMP Mandatory	Standard Mechanical Permits
Insurance	Higher Premiums (+15-25%)	Standard Rates

The 90/10 Rule

Approximately 90% of cooling applications require chilled water at 7-12°C for air conditioning or process cooling. For this majority, BROAD water-LiBr delivers optimal safety and simplicity. The remaining 10% (cold storage, freezing) genuineley need ammonia's sub-zero capabilities.

Installation & Operation

Ammonia: Restricted setback distances; often requires separate mechanical buildings; needs certified specialized operators.
BROAD: Can be located adjacent to occupied spaces (hotels, hospitals); standard HVAC service technicians; minimal regulatory burden.