1. What is kW/tonne?

kW/tonne is a key performance metric used to measure chiller efficiency in HVAC systems. It represents the amount of electrical power (in kilowatts) required to produce one ton of refrigeration cooling capacity.

2. How Does the Calculator Work?

The calculator uses the kW/tonne formula:

Where:

• \( Cooling\ Capacity \) — Total cooling capacity in kilowatts (kW)
• \( Tonnage \) — Cooling capacity in refrigeration tons

Explanation: Lower kW/tonne values indicate higher efficiency, meaning less electrical power is required to produce the same amount of cooling.

3. Importance of kW/tonne Calculation

Details: kW/tonne is crucial for evaluating chiller performance, comparing system efficiency, energy consumption analysis, and making informed decisions about HVAC system selection and optimization.

4. Using the Calculator

Tips: Enter cooling capacity in kilowatts (kW) and tonnage in refrigeration tons. Both values must be positive numbers greater than zero for accurate calculation.

5. Frequently Asked Questions (FAQ)

Q1: What is considered a good kW/tonne value?
A: Modern high-efficiency chillers typically achieve 0.5-0.7 kW/ton, while standard chillers range from 0.8-1.2 kW/ton. Lower values indicate better efficiency.

Q2: How does kW/tonne relate to COP?
A: Coefficient of Performance (COP) is the reciprocal of kW/tonne multiplied by 3.516. COP = 3.516 / (kW/tonne).

Q3: Why is kW/tonne important for energy efficiency?
A: It directly measures how much electricity is consumed per unit of cooling produced, making it essential for energy cost calculations and sustainability assessments.

Q4: What factors affect kW/tonne values?
A: Chiller type, operating conditions, load percentage, condenser water temperature, and maintenance practices all influence kW/tonne performance.

Q5: How can I improve my chiller's kW/tonne?
A: Regular maintenance, optimizing setpoints, improving water treatment, upgrading components, and operating at optimal load conditions can improve efficiency.