1. What is kW/ton?

kW/ton is a measure of chiller efficiency that represents the power input (in kilowatts) required to produce one ton of cooling capacity. Lower values indicate more efficient chillers.

2. How Does the Calculator Work?

The calculator uses the simple formula:

Where:

• \( kW \) — Power input in kilowatts
• \( tons \) — Cooling capacity in refrigeration tons

Explanation: This ratio directly shows how much electrical energy is needed per unit of cooling output.

3. Importance of kW/ton Calculation

Details: kW/ton is a key performance metric for chillers, helping to compare efficiency between different systems and monitor performance over time.

4. Using the Calculator

Tips: Enter the chiller's power consumption in kW and its cooling capacity in tons. Both values must be positive numbers.

5. Frequently Asked Questions (FAQ)

Q1: What is a good kW/ton value?
A: Modern efficient chillers typically range from 0.5 to 0.9 kW/ton. Older systems may be 1.0 kW/ton or higher.

Q2: How does kW/ton relate to COP?
A: COP (Coefficient of Performance) is the inverse of kW/ton multiplied by 3.516 (since 1 ton = 3.516 kW).

Q3: Does kW/ton vary with operating conditions?
A: Yes, it varies with load percentage, condenser water temperature, and other factors. Values are typically rated at full load.

Q4: What affects chiller efficiency?
A: Factors include chiller type (centrifugal, screw, etc.), age, maintenance, refrigerant type, and operating conditions.

Q5: Can this be used for all chiller types?
A: Yes, the kW/ton metric applies to all electric-driven chillers, though expected values differ by type and size.