Mechanical vapor compression cycle chillers

Within this category of chiller there is a multitude of different types, each having its own niche within the market. Design variations within this broad family include:

While each of these considerations has an impact on a customer's choice of chiller, perhaps the most significant variable relates to the type of compressor used to move refrigerant through the vapor compression cycle. The three most common types of compressor used in today's chillers are centrifugal, rotary screw, and reciprocating .

Centrifugal and rotary screw compressor chillers are generally chosen when lifecycle cost is most important, whereas reciprocating compressor machines are chosen when first cost is most important.