Chillers need to operate continuously for extended periods after startup, so some components are susceptible to natural wear and tear and accidental damage. Waiting until replacement parts are needed beforehand can result in significant downtime and production delays. The average repair cycle for some core components is 7-10 days, and this time can be extended if they’re out of stock. Therefore, it’s ideal to stock frequently used parts in advance to expedite repairs and replacements. This article explains common wearing parts and critical spare parts to help you plan ahead.

Classification and Management of Chiller Spare Parts

Chiller spare parts come in many types and quantities. To facilitate procurement and management, they can be categorized from the following four perspectives:

Function-Based

The most common classification method is based on the main system modules within the chiller.
 
• Refrigeration System: The core components used in the refrigeration cycle largely determine the equipment’s cooling efficiency and stability, including the compressor, condenser, evaporator, expansion valve, filter drier, and refrigerant.
 
• Electrical Control System: The components used in the electrical control system affect automatic and remote control functions, including PLC controllers, temperature sensors, contactors, relays, power modules, and display panels.
 
• Water circulation system: Consists of circulation pump, water filter, water tank, solenoid valve, flow switch, and water supply valve.
 
• Structural and auxiliary components: The fan, motor, vibration damper, seals, hinges, housing, and insulation are not directly involved in cooling, but they affect cooling efficiency and user experience.

Based on replacement frequency

Different components have different service lives. Procuring spare parts in advance can reduce downtime.
 
• High-frequency consumables: The filter drier, Kältemittel, seals, and fan blades require regular inspection, replenishment, or replacement during operation.
 
• Medium-frequency maintenance: Components such as the expansion valve, sensor, solenoid valve, water pump, and contactor generally begin to deteriorate after several years of operation and can be replaced during annual maintenance.
 
• Low-frequency replacement parts: The compressor, controller, and power board require infrequent replacement, but damage can cause the entire unit to fail.