Low temperature packs, available as an optional addition for some chiller units, are designed to enable the cooling of applications that require very low temperatures, commonly found in food processing, chemical, and medical industries. These packs include extra insulation around the water circuit, effectively preventing heat ingress into the fluid and avoiding condensation on hoses, which can be mistaken for leaks. While standard chillers typically operate down to +4°C, the low temperature pack enables them to maintain heat transfer fluid temperatures as low as -15°C. For temperatures below this threshold, modifications are made to the refrigeration circuit components to enhance cold temperature tolerance. The choice of heat transfer fluid is crucial; Hexid A4 or a similar glycol/water mixture is recommended due to glycol’s lower freezing point and ability to remain fluid at extremely low temperatures. It’s important to note that the cooling capacity is reduced at these temperatures.

The benefits of integrating a low temperature pack into a chiller system include precise temperature control, essential for applications needing very low temperatures. This precision enhances the chiller’s operational efficiency, as the additional insulation minimises heat exchange with the environment. Furthermore, this adaptation extends the chiller’s versatility, making it suitable for a variety of applications that demand ultra-low temperatures. However, this upgrade does introduce some potential challenges. The initial cost of the chiller system increases with the addition of a low temperature pack. Additionally, the system becomes more complex, potentially complicating operation and maintenance, which could lead to increased downtime and higher maintenance expenses.

Overall, while the incorporation of a low temperature pack in a chiller system does present some additional costs and complexity, these are often outweighed by the significant benefits. Precise temperature control and enhanced versatility make it an attractive option for specific application requiring ultra-low temperatures. When considering this addition, it’s essential to carefully evaluate the application’s requirements and the chiller’s capabilities to ensure a balanced and effective cooling solution.