What is the function of a purge unit in a centrifugal chiller refrigeration system?

The function of a purge unit in a centrifugal chiller refrigeration system is to remove air from the refrigerant. In refrigeration systems, the presence of air can negatively impact the efficiency of the system, leading to reduced performance and potential damage. The purge unit is specifically designed to separate any air and non-condensable gases that may have inadvertently entered the system during operation or maintenance.

By continuously monitoring the refrigerant quality, the purge unit helps to maintain optimal system pressure and ensure that the refrigerant cycle operates efficiently. This is crucial because the presence of air can lead to issues such as increased pressure drops and diminished heat transfer capabilities, ultimately compromising the chiller's ability to cool effectively. Therefore, the primary role of the purge unit is to ensure that only the refrigerant circulates within the system, thus maintaining optimal performance and reliability.