What is the purpose of circulating water through a chiller during refrigerant evacuation?

Circulating water through a chiller during refrigerant evacuation serves the crucial purpose of preventing the freezing of the water. When evacuating refrigerant from a chiller, especially in lower-temperature applications, the pressure in the system can drop significantly. This drop in pressure can result in the temperature of the water in the chiller dropping to the point where it can freeze. If the water freezes, it can cause damage to the system, such as rupturing pipes or impairing the circulation process. By keeping water circulating, heat is maintained within the system, which helps to ensure that the temperature remains above freezing and the integrity of the chiller is preserved throughout the evacuation process.

Maintaining temperature is vital for the overall functionality and safety of the refrigeration system, allowing for effective evacuation without risking system damage.