Can variable refrigerant flow outdoor units be combined

AI Thread Summary
Combining variable refrigerant flow (VRF) outdoor units beyond manufacturer specifications is generally not recommended, as each unit has its own compressor and condenser setup. The discussion highlights that manufacturers provide pre-combined modules for optimal performance, typically limited to around 60 refrigeration tons. The modulation of these units is primarily for energy savings, especially in systems where demand fluctuates significantly. While it may seem beneficial to combine and modulate single module units, doing so could complicate refrigerant flow control and maximum load limitations. Ultimately, adhering to manufacturer guidelines is crucial for efficiency and system integrity.
tj00343
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Hey,
I noticed that some manufacturers have provided data for pre-combined (2 or 3 modules) to achieve higher loads (limited to about 60 refrigeration tons).I was wondering if a designer could combine modules to achieve a greater even larger(different) loads or am i limited to the combinations provided by the manufacturer.
Thank You
 
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The modulation of compressor units outdoors you mentioned is for the purpose of energy savings. This is typical to establishment which air conditioning loads frequently varies in a day period.
Imagine if there is a central air conditioning system which is designed to cater maximum load say 100%, then the actual demand due to the deviation of use is just 10%? It is a waste of energy to let the unit operates in such condition. Compare it to, let say, 3 units, each capable only of delivering 33% only of the total maximum load. It would be a saving only running (1) 33% unit, and the (2) others are turned off,do you agree?
 
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Legolaz said:
The modulation of compressor units outdoors you mentioned is for the purpose of energy savings. This is typical to establishment which air conditioning loads frequently varies in a day period.
Imagine if there is a central air conditioning system which is designed to cater maximum load say 100%, then the actual demand due to the deviation of use is just 10%? It is a waste of energy to let the unit operates in such condition. Compare it to, let say, 3 units, each capable only of delivering 33% only of the total maximum load. It would be a saving only running (1) 33% unit, and the (2) others are turned off,do you agree?

Yes I understand ,however I was wondering if I could combine and modulate single module units as i see fit , and if i can ,what would limit the maximum load and how refrigerant flow to indoor units would be controlled.
 
tj00343 said:
Yes I understand ,however I was wondering if I could combine and modulate single module units as i see fit , and if i can ,what would limit the maximum load and how refrigerant flow to indoor units would be controlled.
I'm sorry, I can not digest what you intend to do, could you please, elaborate further.
 
Legolaz said:
I'm sorry, I can not digest what you intend to do, could you please, elaborate further.
I'm just wondering if outdoor units can be freely combined.
 
Nope you can't freely combine, there is no sense because each has its own compressor and condenser set and why even bother to. It's an additional work, you know.
 
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