Compressor-based Chiller Vs Thermoelectric Chiller | Coolingstyle

The most fundamental difference between semiconductor and compressor refrigeration is how they achieve cooling. For instance, compressor refrigeration uses gases such as Freon. This gas gets compressed and later released into coils.

In contrast, semiconductor refrigeration uses a solid-state device to cool the interior. The device is a Peltier junction with two ceramic materials of different electrical properties. When connected to electricity, one side of the intersection becomes hot while the other becomes cold. This temperature difference handles cooling things down.

So, in summary, semiconductor refrigeration does not use any gas or harmful chemicals. It uses electricity to create both hot and cold sides. This technology is older than compressor refrigeration. Too, the latter represents a newer and different cooling type that relies on the compression of gases.

The next part of this article will focus on these topics. They include, What is compressor-based technology? What is thermoelectric semiconductor technology? Also, we will look at how compressor-based computers compare to thermoelectric semiconductor chillers? So continue reading!

What is Compressor-based Technology?

Compressor-based technology uses a compressor to compress refrigerant gas and pump it through the system. The compressor increases the gas’s pressure and temperature, circulating through the condenser. The refrigerant loses its heat and transforms back into a liquid through this process.

The compressor is the core of a compressor-based refrigeration system. Its primary purpose is to compress the refrigerant gas.

However, it performs other more tasks in the system, such as

– Pumping the refrigerant through the condenser

– Regulating the flow of refrigerant

– Starting and stopping the compressor

Providing pressure and temperature readings to the controller

Compressor-based technology has several advantages over thermoelectric semiconductor technology. Here are some:

– They are more efficient, meaning they need less power to operate

– They are not that expensive and easy to maintain

– They are better at large cooling spaces

– They have a longer lifespan than thermoelectric semiconductor technology

Applications of Compressor-based Technology

– Commercial refrigeration (supermarkets, convenience stores, restaurants, hotels, etc.)

– Industrial refrigeration (process cooling, cold storage, etc.)

– Marine refrigeration (a ship’s freezing or reefer compartment)

– Automotive air conditioning

What is thermoelectric semiconductor technology?

Thermoelectric semiconductor technology uses semiconductor materials to provide cooling. It is a solid-state technology that replaces compressor-based refrigeration systems with semiconductor components.

Thermoelectric semiconductor technology uses a thermocouple. It’s a device that converts thermal energy to electrical energy and vice versa. Basically, a thermocouple comprises multiple pairs of junctions. Some are positive and others negative and are of two different materials.

When electric heat passes through the positive junction, it creates a voltage. This output is what the unit harnesses to provide cooling.

Thermoelectric semiconductor technology has several advantages over compressor-based refrigeration:

– It is a solid-state technology, which means there are no moving parts and therefore minimal wear and tear

– No freon

However, there are also some limitations to thermoelectric semiconductor technology:

– Their efficiency varies with temperature, so they work best in low temperatures (e.g., below room temperature)

– They are not as efficient at high temperatures as compressor-based refrigeration

– The size and weight of thermoelectric semiconductor modules are often massive. In comparison, compressor-based refrigeration systems are usually lighter.

Applications of Thermoelectric Semiconductor Technology

Thermoelectric semiconductor technology is most commonly used where low temperatures are a priority. These places include:

– Food refrigeration (e.g., supermarkets, convenience stores, restaurants, etc.)

– Process cooling (e.g., chemical processing, metalworking, etc.)

– Laboratory refrigeration (e.g., medical research, drug development, etc.)

– Transportation refrigeration (e.g., trucking, shipping, etc.)

– Solar cooling

Thermoelectric semiconductor technology is also finding increasing use in data centres and telecommunications. Here, the need for reliable and energy-efficient cooling is critical.

How do compressor-based chillers compare to thermoelectric semiconductor chillers?

Compressor-based units are typically more efficient than thermoelectric chillers. Why? Because compressor-based teams use compressor technology to compress the refrigerant, creating cold air. Likewise, Compressor technology is very reliable, and you can easily apply it in commercial and industrial settings because they are the most effective option.

Especially Coolingstyle developed the DC variable frequency inverter compressor. This small compressor is widely used in chiller systems. This new technology solves the main problem that traditional compressor-based chillers may have. The chillers with this miniature compressor have the advantages as below:

• DC or AC power can be both applicapable.
• Intelligent variable conversion control.
• High accuracy temperature control.
• Light weight and compact size.
• Easy maintenance
• Easy to install
• Cheap cost

Compared to the thermoelectric semiconductor chillers advantages, the new technology that Coolingstyle uses enable the chiller to abandon the disadvantages of traditional technology, and combines the advantages of thermoelectric semiconductor technology.

Conclusion

Both chiller systems have their strengths and weaknesses, ranging from cost, power requirements, and maintenance needs. It will be easy to determine which chiller type to choose with these factors in mind. Each chiller has its benefits and comes in various sizes, depending on your space. So, be sure to consider your specific needs before making a buy.

One chiller type will not fit all applications or all chiller models. This is why it is essential to know what chiller type best fits your application’s needs. Have questions? Contact us today, and we would be happy to help you find the chiller system that best meets your needs!