What precaution is essential to prevent overpressurization in low-pressure chillers?

The installation of a ruptured disc is an essential precaution to prevent overpressurization in low-pressure chillers. A ruptured disc is a safety device designed to protect against excessive pressure build-up within the system. It is engineered to rupture at a predetermined pressure, thereby providing a controlled failure point that allows for the safe release of pressure. This helps to prevent catastrophic failures that can result from overpressurization, which could lead to system damage or safety hazards.

While using a pressure gauge and conducting regular maintenance checks are important practices in maintaining the overall health and safety of the chiller system, they do not provide the same level of direct protection against overpressurization. A pressure gauge helps monitor the pressure levels, and regular maintenance ensures that the system operates efficiently, but these measures do not actively alleviate pressure in case of a critical failure. On the other hand, overfilling the system is dangerous, as it can contribute to the risk of overpressurization rather than mitigate it.

In summary, the ruptured disc acts as a fail-safe mechanism, ultimately enhancing the safety of low-pressure chillers by effectively controlling pressure and preventing potential crises.