Technicians calculate a chiller's volumetric flow rate similarly to how they find the flow rate in other pump systems. As with other systems, a chiller's flow rate depends on the chiller's pressure and the system's overall efficiency. This pressure is typically measured in terms of total dynamic head, a figure that considers the fluid's static pressure, the pressure the pump adds and pressure losses due to friction.
Multiply the fluid's horsepower by 3960. If the chiller works at 25 horsepower: 25 x 3960 = 99,000.
Multiply your answer by the pump's efficiency. If the pump works at 80 percent efficiency: 99,000 x 0.80 = 79,200.
Divide your answer by the total dynamic head, measured in feet. If the head equals 130 feet: 79,200 / 130 = 609.2. This answer is the chiller's flow rate, measured in gallons per minute.
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About the Author
Ryan Menezes is a professional writer and blogger. He has a Bachelor of Science in journalism from Boston University and has written for the American Civil Liberties Union, the marketing firm InSegment and the project management service Assembla. He is also a member of Mensa and the American Parliamentary Debate Association.
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pump image by Aleksander Nordaas from Fotolia.com