Chiller Systems
Reciprocating Compressors - First Cost
General
While they are the least efficient of the chiller package options, reciprocating or scroll compressor chillers have a definite first cost advantage in the smaller chiller sizes. The first cost of reciprocating chiller packages is the lowest of the various electric chiller options, certainly when expressed in $ per ton. The compressors are competitively priced since they are used in many different chiller models. Plus, many more reciprocating chillers are produced than larger centrifugal and screw type chillers. These economies of scale result in a lower unit cost, especially for models up to about 200 tons.
