ETSI Blog

Advancing Sustainability: The Evolution of Air-Cooled Chillers

3 Minute Read
Posted by Jordan Bove on Mar 11, 2024 8:19:15 AM

In the ever-evolving landscape of sustainability and decarbonization, businesses are increasingly prioritizing environmentally friendly solutions across all facets of operations. From reducing greenhouse gas emissions to enhancing energy efficiency, the quest for sustainable practices permeates every aspect of modern HVAC industry. One area where significant strides have been made is with the evolution of air-cooled chillers.

Embodied carbon, encompassing emissions from manufacturing, transportation, installation, maintenance, and disposal, stands as a crucial metric in assessing the sustainability of HVAC products. Over the past two decades, air-cooled chillers have undergone a remarkable transformation, boasting a staggering 49% reduction in embodied carbon compared to their predecessors. How was this achieved? Through a combination of streamlined manufacturing processes, material optimization, and the adoption of refrigerants with lower global warming potential (GWP). Key to this reduction has been the development of smaller, more efficient heat exchangers and the introduction of all-aluminum microchannel condensers. These innovations not only minimize material usage but also enhance operational efficiency, contributing to a greener, more sustainable future.

In alignment with regulatory mandates such as the American Innovation and Manufacturing (AIM) Act, air-cooled chillers have embraced a transition towards low-GWP refrigerants. This strategic shift, from ozone-depleting compounds to eco-friendly alternatives marks a significant milestone in the industry's commitment to environmental stewardship. By leveraging refrigerants with substantially reduced GWP values, air-cooled chillers are not only meeting current standards but exceeding them. The result? A tangible reduction in carbon emissions and a tangible step forward in the journey towards carbon neutrality.

_MG_9133_Triple-1The evolution of air-cooled chillers represents a triumph of sustainability and innovation in the HVAC industry. From embodied carbon reduction to the adoption of low-GWP refrigerants and the optimization of energy efficiency, these systems embody the ethos of environmental responsibility and forward-thinking design. 

The LG Inverter Scroll Heat Pump Chiller "ACHH" Series is provided with R410A refrigerant and the NEW "KCHH" Series is provided with R32 refrigerant to meet new lower GWP standards.

  • Condenser Coil Coating Rated at 10,000 HRS1
  • Variable Speed Condenser Fan Motors
  • Variable Speed Compressors
  • Cooling Operation from 5 °F to 125 °F
  • Heating Operating from -22 °F to 95 °F
  • Cooling Water Side Delta from 4 °F to 20 °F
  • Heating Water Side Delta from 4 °F to 20 °F
  • Cooling LWT from 14 °F to 68 °F
  • Heating LWT from 86 °F to 131 °F (KCHH to 140 °F)
  • 65 SCCR Standard on 460V-3PH2
  • 56 SCCR Standard on 208-230V-3PH2
  • Rated Sound Pressure at 30’ is 51-60 db(A)3
  • 100% Heating Capacity down to 32 °F
  • 120F LWT at 17 °F = 80% of Full Capacity

Jordan Bove

Marketing Coordinator