02 · HVAC & Ventilation Systems

Chilled Water Central Systems

These systems use chiller units to cool water, which is then pumped through a piping network to air handling units and fan coil units that cool the different spaces inside the building.

Request a Project Study Request a Quote on WhatsApp

Overview

What We Deliver: Chilled Water Central Systems

These systems use chiller units to cool water, which is then pumped through a piping network to air handling units and fan coil units that cool the different spaces inside the building.

At Nefal, we deliver complete solutions that start with load study, design and equipment selection, and include supply and installation of chillers, pumps, indoor units and distribution networks, through to testing, flow balancing and commissioning.

Scope of Work:

Load study, equipment selection and preparation of working drawings.
Supply and installation of chiller units, pumps and their bases, and vibration isolators.
Installation of chilled water piping networks, valves, strainers and system accessories.
Thermal insulation, vapour barrier and external protection, depending on the site.
Supply and installation of air handling units and fan coil units.
Installation of ductwork, air distribution outlets and condensate drainage, depending on project scope.
Testing, flushing and cleaning of networks, and water treatment.
Electrical and control connections, and integration with the building management system (BMS), as required.
Balancing of water and air flows, and testing of operation and performance.

Suitable Projects:

Towers Hotels Shopping malls Government buildings Hospitals Large mixed-use projects

The suitability of the system is determined by loads, operating hours, the space available for equipment, and maintenance and expansion requirements.

Not sure which system suits you? Compare Systems

System Features

Large load handling: multiple options to meet the needs of buildings and complexes.
Flexible cooling distribution: supplies a range of indoor units through the chilled water network.
Demand-based operation: equipment can run in stages, and variable-speed pumps or compressors can be selected to improve efficiency at part loads, depending on the design.
Service continuity options: standby equipment can be provided, depending on project requirements.
Centralised control and monitoring: can be connected to the building management system (BMS) to monitor operation and performance.
Scalability: future load additions can be planned for, provided they are considered in the design.

How We Ensure Quality

Integrated design: chillers, pumps and pipe diameters selected based on loads, flow rates and pressure drop.
Pre-construction coordination: review of equipment locations, structural loads, pipe routes, and operation and maintenance access areas.
Network protection: pipe testing and cleaning, plus water treatment, insulation and vapour barrier to reduce corrosion and condensation.
Balancing and testing: adjustment of water and air flows, and verification of controls, operating sequence and equipment performance before handover.

What We Need to Start

Architectural drawings, space uses and their heights.
Facade, glazing and thermal insulation details.
Number of occupants, operating hours and any special loads.
Proposed locations for chillers and pumps, and pipe routes.
Structural drawings, electrical supply data and available services.
Standby operation, expansion and BMS integration requirements, if any.

We will review the available information with you and identify the data needed to complete the study and select the suitable system.

Featured Case Study — A Real Nefal Handover

Executed, tested and commissioned against the project's approved specifications

District Mall — Riyadh

Capacity: 1500+ TR

Brands: Dunham-Bush

Executed & Handed Over

Technical Information

Capacity: 1500+ TR
System: Chilled Water Central Systems
City: Riyadh
Reference Project: District Mall — Riyadh
Scope: Chillers, Water Circulation Pumps, Piping Networks, Armaflex Insulation

Frequently Asked Questions

What is the difference between chilled water systems and VRF?

Chilled water systems carry cooling to the indoor units through water, while VRF systems deliver refrigerant directly to the indoor units. The choice depends on project size, the nature of the loads, operating requirements and cost.

What is the difference between an air-cooled and a water-cooled chiller?

An air-cooled chiller rejects heat to the outside air, while a water-cooled chiller uses a condenser water loop that is usually connected to cooling towers. Each option differs in space, water and maintenance requirements, and operating efficiency.

Is this system suitable for all buildings?

Not necessarily. It requires space for equipment and pipe networks, along with suitable operation and maintenance facilities. Its feasibility is assessed against alternatives based on the project's needs.

Does it reduce electricity consumption?

It can achieve high operating efficiency when equipment is selected, networks are designed and controls are set up appropriately. Energy consumption is assessed for the whole system, including chillers, pumps, fans and cooling towers where applicable.

Does it need water treatment and regular maintenance?

Yes. Water treatment is needed to maintain water quality and protect system components, along with cleaning strainers and inspecting pumps, heat exchangers, insulation and controls, depending on the circuit type and manufacturers' instructions.

How is the cost of the system determined?

It depends on the loads, the type and number of chillers, standby requirements, pumps and indoor units, pipe network lengths, insulation and controls, and installation and testing works.

The right solution starts with studying your project

Share your project drawings, and the Nefal team will help you study chilled water systems, select the right solution, and provide a technical and financial proposal that suits your needs.

Request a Quote