DefinePK

Abstract

Vacuum pressure is the main factor of sustaining absorption chiller performance and reliability. Any leaks reduce chiller machine capability to produce chilled water supply that comply with petrochemical plant demand and temperature requirement. This study explores possibilities of IR thermography application as a systematic detection method of vacuum leak at absorption chiller. The method combines basic process knowledge of absorption chiller and IR thermography theory in order to identify and verify vacuum leak location. It also considers requirement and demand of petrochemical plant operating nature that requires quick and reliable leak detection method. From experimental result, it shows that IR thermography can be applied as vacuum leak detection method provided that special consideration need to be made on surface emissivity and temperature gradient between target surface and ambient environment.