Cooling Towers for Absorption Chillers in Trigeneration

1. Installation context and requirements

In 2023, MITA Cooling Technologies partnered with a Milanese machinery integrator to implement a trigeneration project within a major appliance manufacturing company. The client, a company specializing in integrated energy solutions, worked alongside the MITA team to implement a “hydrogen-ready” cogeneration system, with the goal of providing a highly environmentally friendly and sustainable option for the end user’s production process.

This trigeneration project is distinguished by its ability to generate electricity, heat and cooling simultaneously, enabling more efficient use of resources and contributing to the reduction of environmental impact.

The end customer’s main requirement was the cooling of the absorption chiller involved in the trigeneration process. Given the innovative nature and scale of the project, the Milan-based machinery manufacturer required a highly efficient cooling solution, capable of handling a total heat load of 3,200 kW, and with a water flow rate of 550 m³/h. In addition, the need for low-noise technology was noted: a crucial element in maintaining an optimal working environment.

2. Proposed solution

MITA Cooling Technologies responded to these needs by providing two open cooling towers of the PME 4804 CW Silent model, each with a thermal capacity of 1,600 kW and a water flow rate of 275 m³/h. These towers have been designed to operate efficiently while maintaining low noise levels, thanks to sound-absorbing ear muffs and anti-shock mat-an important aspect in minimizing disturbance within the industrial environment. The towers are equipped with an exchange pack for clean water.

The outlet fluid temperature is 29°C, starting from an inlet temperature of 34°C, with the goal of maintaining ideal conditions for the absorption chiller.

MITA also took care of the transportation and installation of the towers, ensuring that the process was managed efficiently and on schedule. The entire solution was designed in synergy with the client, taking advantage of the established relationship between MITA and the equipment integrator, which facilitated the design and implementation of the cooling system.

3. Results and key success factors

The implementation of MITA PME 4804 CW Silent cooling towers contributed significantly to the success of the trigeneration project.

The solution enabled the end-user company to achieve stable and efficient cooling for the absorption chiller while keeping the energy system at maximum efficiency. The low noise level of the towers met the need for a smooth working environment.

A crucial factor in the success was MITA’s established relationship with the equipment integrator, which facilitated communication and collaboration throughout the project life cycle. In addition, MITA’s proposed solution was well suited to the client’s specific needs, combining energy efficiency, performance, and low noise emissions. All with quick and uncomplicated installation.

In short, MITA Cooling Technologies provided highly customized and environmentally friendly industrial cooling solutions: cooling technologies can support sustainable and advanced production processes, such as trigeneration, contributing to decarbonization and reduced energy costs for customers.