Lesson 9 - Refrigeration Technology SAQ
This lesson allows you to test yourself on the material covered in the Refrigeration Technology lesson and determine the level to which you have met the learning outcomes.
Suggested Response - Q5
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a) What are the advantages and disadvantages of wet and dry condensers?
b) If wet condensers deliver higher efficiencies why would you consider using dry condensers?
Response:
a) An advantage of wet condensers is that they are dependent on the wet bulb temperature. The refrigerant can thus be condensed at a lower temperature, in turn improving the COP.
However, since they use water, wet condensers are more expensive, suffer more corrosion, require water treatment, and pose a risk for legionnaires disease.
Dry condensers do not use water. They are lighter, can easily be put on rooftops, and are cheaper. However, they do result in lower COPs, which is clearly a disadvantage.
b) Dry condensers do not use water, so if water is a constraint or is expensive, dry condensers can overcome this problem. If legionnaires disease legislation is very stringent, especially for a brewery in a built-up area, then dry condensers can be considered. Lastly, if ambient conditions are cool, then the impact on the COP will be smaller.