Vapour Absorption Chillers (VAC): Working, Benefits & Applications in Modern Industry

As energy efficiency and environmental responsibility gain importance across industries, Vapour Absorption Chillers (VAC) are redefining how large facilities manage their cooling needs. Unlike traditional chillers that rely on electricity-powered compressors, VAC systems operate using heat, often derived from waste energy sources. This not only saves power but also supports a cleaner, greener future.
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• How Vapour Absorption Chillers Work

  At the core of every VAC system is a thermal absorption cycle that replaces the mechanical compression used in conventional chillers. The process includes four key stages:

  • Evaporation: A natural refrigerant, like water or ammonia, absorbs heat from the environment and evaporates into vapour.
  • Absorption: This vapour is absorbed by a chemical solution, typically lithium bromide or ammonia-based absorbents.
  • Generation: The mixture is then heated using steam, hot water, or exhaust, separating the refrigerant from the absorbent.
  • Condensation: The refrigerant vapour cools, condenses back into liquid, and returns to the evaporator to repeat the cycle.

  By utilising thermal energy instead of electric compression, VAC systems significantly lower electricity use, especially where waste heat or renewable energy is available.

• Key Advantages of Vapour Absorption Chillers

  Here’s why more industries and commercial setups are turning to VAC systems:

  • Energy Efficient: Utilises low-grade or waste heat to cut down on electricity usage.
  • Eco-Friendly: Uses natural refrigerants with zero ODP (Ozone Depletion Potential).
  • Low Maintenance: Fewer moving parts mean less wear and lower servicing costs.
  • Quiet Operation: Runs smoothly without the noise of traditional compressors.
  • Cost Saving: Ideal for facilities with surplus heat, reducing overall energy expenses.
  • Sustainable: Helps organisations lower their carbon footprint and meet global energy goals.

• Applications Across Industries

  VAC technology is highly versatile and finds use across a wide range of sectors:

  • Commercial HVAC: Enhances energy-efficient cooling in offices, malls, hotels, and hospitals.
  • Industrial Cooling: Ideal for refineries, chemical plants, power stations, and manufacturing units.
  • District Cooling: Supports large-scale urban cooling with reduced peak electricity demand.
  • Trigeneration Systems: Integrates with Combined Heat, Power & Cooling (CHPC/CCHP) setups.
  • Renewable Energy Integration: Works with solar thermal or geothermal sources for hybrid cooling.

• The Future of VAC Technology

  As sustainability becomes a driving factor in engineering and infrastructure, the relevance of Vapour Absorption Chillers will only grow. Advancements in refrigerants, materials, and system controls are expected to improve their performance further. Additionally, with the rising focus on solar and geothermal energy, VAC systems will play a critical role in integrated, future-ready HVAC solutions.

• Conclusion: A Smarter Way to Stay Cool

  Vapour Absorption Chillers are more than just an alternative to electric cooling, they’re a long-term strategy for sustainable operation. Whether for industrial plants or smart buildings, VAC technology offers a dependable, energy-saving solution aligned with global environmental goals. As energy costs climb and carbon emissions face stricter regulations, these chillers are quickly becoming a smart investment in modern cooling infrastructure.

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