This article speaks to recent experiences from engineering and project managing the retrofit of a 300-ton chiller. It focuses on the philosophical issues for retrofitting anything in a mechanical or electrical system rather than speaking specifically about chiller projects. You might consider the principles and path described here for many projects and plans moving forward. It also addresses the realities of trying to do a project in today’s world — in the middle of a pandemic and through the ongoing supply chain issues we’re all facing. I’ve also included several “pearls of wisdom” I have learned going through a lot of painful oysters over the past 40 years.
The 22-year-old, failing, 300-ton chiller showcased in this article operated in an institutional setting. The building was initially designed to be a high school and was then converted to its current institutional purpose (multiuse — regional offices, storage, retail, and light processing). The chiller piping and air handlers were neglected as the building transitioned over the years. In this same scenario, older, failing equipment; challenging surroundings; equipment not in great shape — you can change this project from a chiller to one of the many boilers I have also been involved in retrofitting. Again, it’s the process more than it is the equipment.