Chiller systems are an effective way to cool large commercial spaces but can use vast quantities of water and energy. Kiltech was founded to create technology that helps reduce energy consumption and trim the operating costs of chillers. Over the years, they have built a well-earned reputation for offering advanced control technologies.
Kiltech is a subsidiary of Smardt, the global leader in oil-free centrifugal chillers. This partnership has led to a string of synergistic developments that have helped Smardt and Kiltech stay at the forefront of creating energy-efficient interior environments. Caleb Jones, General Manager at Kiltech, explains Kiltech’s innovative approach to chiller control systems. “Kiltech has carved a niche for itself in the commercial HVAC industry,” says Jones. “Kiltech is fundamentally a part of a chiller company that excels in controls. Our strength is our deep understanding of compressors and their role in HVAC systems. This expertise enables us to develop advanced control systems that significantly reduce energy consumption in chiller plants. Unlike typical controls companies, our approach begins with the compressor and extends to the entire HVAC system, ensuring holistic optimization.”
Kiltech’s approach is innovative. “Chiller systems, whether water-cooled or air-cooled, are comprised of various components like cooling towers, water pumps, and the chillers themselves,” Jones explains. “Our strategy is to optimize the entire system, not just individual components. This ensures balanced and efficient energy usage across the chiller plant. By focusing on the system as a whole, we can minimize overall energy consumption more effectively.”
Three Controls Products Monitor a Variety of Chiller Systems
Kiltech offers three distinct products, each delivering energy savings in different ways. The Kiltech Model T is a standalone control solution housed in a control panel. “The CPECS Model T manages end-to-end control of all devices within a mechanical room,” Jones reports. “It’s ideal for new installations or complete retrofits, providing hardwired signals to and from the control panel.”
The Kiltech CPECS Model S was created to integrate with existing Building Automation Systems (BAS). “Our Model S can use existing infrastructure such sensors, signals, and wiring to read data and optimize control set points.” Jones says, “The Model S is a good choice for sites with existing control systems. It offers seamless integration and enhanced energy efficiency.”
The Kiltech CPM (Chiller Plant Manager) is a lead-lag control solution for multiple chillers. “In some cases, sites need to focus on stable operation by managing the staging and operation of multiple chillers,” Jones adds. “It’s designed for installations requiring simple and reliable chiller management.”
Advanced Chiller Modeling Capabilities
Kiltech’s technology uses modeling to identify opportunities for efficiencies. “The energy consumption of a chiller primarily hinges on its compressors,” Jones continues. “We’ve developed sophisticated models applicable to various types of compressors, such as screw, centrifugal, and scroll, from any manufacturer. These models predict the energy efficiency of a unit under different conditions, like temperature and load, and determine the optimal operating point for the lowest energy consumption. By continually adjusting to the most efficient level of operation, our controls ensure significant energy savings.”
Kiltech and Smardt History
Kiltech’s history is intertwined with the development of the Turbocor compressor technology in the 1990s. “A group of engineers from Montreal, who were pivotal in this development, founded Kiltech as a controls company in the early 2000s,” Jones explains, “parallel to the establishment of Smardt. Although Kiltech was initially independent, Smardt soon acquired a stake in Kiltech, eventually leading to complete ownership. Despite this, both companies maintain their distinct identities and often collaborate on various HVAC projects.”
Real-Life Results
Jones says the results speak for themselves. At The University of North Carolina Wilmington (UNCW), the CPECS Model T was installed to monitor four buildings. The Kiltech product achieved 47% energy savings in this new build compared to ASHRAE 90 standards.
“We also saw impressive results at an auto manufacturing facility in Ontario, Canada,” Jones adds. When we installed our CPECS Model S across four plants with 15 chillers, the plant realized a 30% energy savings in the first year.”
Jones notes that there are many similar case studies in which savings can be converted into dollars. “In a pharmaceutical manufacturing plant in Phoenix, Arizona, the efficiencies created by the CPECS Model T resulted in a savings of $259,000 on energy costs in the first year.”
A Commitment to Efficiency
and Kiltech are committed to energy efficiency. “We work hard to create sustainable and cost-effective solutions for our clients,” Jones emphasizes. “Innovation is at the heart of what we do. By continually refining our models and control strategies, we ensure that our systems remain at the cutting edge of technology, providing the best possible energy savings and operational efficiency outcomes.”
Jones notes that Smardt and Kiltech constantly explore new ways to enhance their control systems. “Future developments will likely focus on further refining our energy models, incorporating AI and machine learning for predictive maintenance, and expanding our product line to cover more aspects of HVAC controls,” he says. “We aim to stay ahead of industry trends and continue delivering innovative solutions that meet the evolving needs of our clients.”
Want to Learn More About Smardt Chiller Software Solutions?
Choosing Kiltech technology from Smardt is an investment in energy efficiency and operational excellence. The systems are designed not only to optimize performance but also to provide long-term savings and sustainability. Coward Environmental Systems, Inc. proudly represents Smardt and Kiltech in the Philadelphia region, Central PA, Delaware, and Maryland. Contact us today to discover how Smardt Chillers and Kiltech software can be a part of your next project.
