Case Study, Bristol University, Liquid Pressure Amplification

Bristol University’s energy consumption for cooling has been rising – to the point where, in 2006, its summer peak electrical load matched that of mid winter. To reverse this trend, the University has devised more energy efficient methods of supplying chilled water, and policies to control air conditioning.The pilot site for chilled water was the highly serviced Dorothy Hodgkin Building, where it accounted for 36-40% of normal electricity consumption. To reduce this, a Liquid Pressure Amplification (LPA) pump was added to the main chiller to create a constant outlet pressure. This reduces compressor load and enables the plant to operate within optimum design parameters, regardless of ambient conditions. The more uniform load should also extend lifespan, and require fewer replacement units and parts. In addition, the Building Energy Management System (BEMS) was modified to optimise loading, and variable speed drives were installed on the primary chilled water pumps. The total cost of the project was £71,950.

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