GEA Blu Chillers
New Chillers: the GEA Grasso BluGeniumm series
GEA Refrigeration Technologies has introduced new water-cooled ammonia chillers. These chillers are based on the proven piston compressors from the GEA Grasso V series and are characterized by a narrow width of only 1.2 m as well as by a small footprint. GEA Grasso BluGenium chillers enable brine inlet temperatures of approx. -15 °C to +15 °C. This makes them effective for industrial applications, process cooling, building climate control, and many additional areas of use. The chillers are available in five model sizes, with maximum cooling duty ranging from 280 kW for the smallest model, to the largest unit with a maximum duty of 1210 kW (all ratings measured at +12/+6 °C). These chillers are impressive not only at full load, but also with their great efficiency in the often-required part-load range. This results in an unequalled European Seasonal Energy Efficiency Ratio of 9.5. One of the features contributing to this performance is the standard frequency inverter, which enables speed control from 500 to 1500 rpm and, in turn, infinitely variable output matching over an extensive load range. An additional efficiency characteristic is the so-called electronic condenser drain system. It monitors pressure relationships at the condenser and evaporator and assures optimal capacity utilization of the evaporator. The water-cooled GEA Grasso BluGenium chillers are available immediately. For 2015 it is planned to expand the range by adding models with external condensers.
The modest power consumption of GEA Grasso BluGenium chillers results from special design characteristics: for example, the low pressure drop, as well as the effective temperature isolation between the suction and discharge sides of the compressor, the latter of which especially has the positive effect of limiting the final temperature. The large suction chamber – which enables unimpeded inflow of gas into the compression chambers – ensures very slight pressure drops at the compressor that enhance system efficiency. Ease of maintenance results from details such as O-ring seals instead of conventional gaskets at the cylinder head. The latter can be opened by unscrewing only four nuts.
GEA Grasso BluGenium chillers are likewise designed for long service lives and low life-cycle costs. These benefits are the results of a number of structural characteristics: e.g., the welded compressor crankcase of the compressors and the fully welded heat exchangers for the condensers and evaporators. Good insulation of the cold side of the chillers likewise minimizes corrosion risks.
The scope of delivery of GEA Grasso BluGenium models includes a control enclosure with intelligent control. Operator actions take place via a touch panel or by remote access. The control system logs the operating status data and maintenance information, which enables the user to fetch archived data. The GEA Grasso Maintenance Monitor, in addition, analyzes these data and determines the optimal point in time for maintenance. The functionality of the GEA Grasso Maintenance Monitor for the GEA Grasso BluGenium is integrated into the control system. This ex-works solution therefore satisfies all prerequisites for status-oriented maintenance. These chillers, mounted on a rugged frame structure, run at very low vibration levels in their factory versions. They can, however, also be delivered if requested with an enclosure that reduces operational noise emissions by approx. 5 dB(A). Removable side panels and doors, even with the enclosed models, assure ease of access to all essential components.
The new water-cooled chillers from the GEA Grasso BluGenium series are available now. The maximum refrigeration-duty range is 280 to 1210 kW, depending on the model.
