A Generalized Simulation Model of Chillers and Heat Pumps to be Calibrated on Published Manufacturer's Data

This paper shows how semi-empirical models of chillers and heat pumps can be calibrated on the basis of manufacturer’s published data, which is most of the time the only available source of information. A calibration methodology is proposed and illustrated for different technologies of vapor-compression machines, pointing out tips and tricks. Whatever the size and technology (e.g. scroll, screw or reciprocating compressors), the semi-empirical model is found to predict both full load and part load performance with a very good accuracy. This is partially due to the tailor-made formalism of the model, which allows describing the main features of the machine.