Multi-Chiller Plant Fluid Interconnection for Backup Operation
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Solution Overview
Problem
Chiller plants with multiple chillers face challenges in maintaining operation when one or more chillers fail, as existing systems lack efficient mechanisms for fluid communication and backup operation between different temperature circuits, leading to potential disruptions in temperature control and functionality.
Innovation Solution
The chiller plant design includes connecting lines and flow control devices between the process fluid circuits of multiple chillers, allowing for fluid communication and backup operation when a chiller fails, with flow distribution control devices regulating fluid flow based on temperature readings to maintain desired temperatures.
Engineering Contradictions & Design Principles
Engineering Contradiction Analysis
1Reliability
If multiple chillers operate independently in separate temperature circuits, then each chiller can maintain its specific temperature function, but the system lacks reliability when a chiller fails
Solution Approach 1:
The patent enables each chiller to serve multiple functions by allowing process fluid from any chiller to be distributed to any circuit through the interconnection system. Normally, chiller 101 serves circuit 102 and chiller 103 serves circuit 104, but when a failure occurs, the remaining operational chiller can provide cooling to both circuits through the connecting lines and flow control devices, making each chiller potentially serve multiple circuits.
Solution Approach 2:
The connecting lines (132, 134) and flow control devices (133, 137) act as intermediaries that enable fluid communication between previously independent chiller circuits. These intermediary components allow the system to transition from isolated operation to interconnected backup operation without requiring fundamental system redesign.
2Reliability
If chillers are connected for backup operation, then system reliability improves, but fluid flow control complexity increases
Solution Approach 1:
The flow distribution control devices (142, 152) incorporate temperature sensors and control systems that continuously monitor process fluid temperature and automatically adjust valve positions to maintain desired temperature setpoints. This feedback mechanism simplifies operation by eliminating manual intervention, as the system self-regulates fluid distribution based on real-time temperature conditions.
Solution Approach 2:
The system automatically detects when a chiller fails and self-configures the fluid distribution through the flow control devices, which respond to temperature readings and automatically redirect process fluid through appropriate connecting lines. This self-service capability eliminates the need for manual system reconfiguration during failure scenarios.
3Adaptability or versatility
If separate process fluid circuits are used for different temperatures, then temperature control precision is maintained, but system adaptability decreases
Solution Approach 1:
The system dynamically transitions between independent and interconnected operational modes based on chiller status. During normal operation, circuits remain separate to maintain temperature precision. When a failure occurs, the system dynamically reconfigures through the connecting lines and flow control devices, allowing adaptability without permanently compromising the precision achieved during normal separate operation.
Solution Approach 2:
The patent maintains segmented, independent chiller circuits for normal operation to ensure temperature control precision, while adding optional interconnection pathways that enable adaptability only when needed. This segmentation approach allows the system to preserve precision during normal operation while gaining adaptability during failure scenarios.
Data Source
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AI summary
A chiller plant including at least two chillers operating at different temperatures are disclosed. Process fluid circuits of the chillers can form fluid communication when, for example, one or more of the at least two chillers may fail, so that the other chiller(s) of the at least two chillers may provide backup operation to the failed chiller(s).