Heat Pump
Different types and functioning principle
A heat pump – in contrast to a refrigeration unit or chiller – is a machine transforming heat from a lower to a higher temperature level. This is done by using the so-called condensation heat. When changing their state of aggregation, liquids either absorb heat from their environment (liquid to gaseous state) or release heat into the environment (gaseous to liquid state). The first effect is called evaporative cold, the latter condensation heat. Basic information:
Nicolas Carnot described the basic functioning of a heat pump as early as in 1824. Since then, this technology has been developed continuously.
Today, mainly three different types of heat pumps exist:
- the compression heat pump making use of the above mentioned physical effects
- the absorption heat pump making use of the heat of reaction when two liquids are mixed
- the adsorption heat pump using a fixed solution to which the refrigerant adsorbs or desorbs respectively
Type of heat pump
The most common type is the compression heat pump which is normally powered by an electrical motor. A heat pump is a suitable means of increasing energy efficiency and at the same time reducing costs.
Moreover, you can profit from our extensive know-how on the issues of refrigeration and air-conditioning. As an official partner of McQuay, we will also be pleased to consult you, if you have questions concerning particular products like a liquid chiller or water chiller. Feel free to use our contact form.