Bitzer has introduced its new OWD series of water-cooled oil coolers, expanding the capacity and improving the efficiency of its established OW range. The new models now offer heat exchange capacities of up to 300kW, significantly broadening application possibilities across industrial and commercial refrigeration systems.
Designed for high performance and versatility, the OWD series supports a wide range of configurations and is compatible with various refrigerants, including HFCs, HFOs, HFC/HFO blends, and hydrocarbons. Though engineered primarily for Bitzer’s HS and OS screw compressors, the series is also suitable for integration with compressors from other manufacturers.
Bitzer states that the OWD series delivers consistent high-capacity cooling—up to 300kW—regardless of operating conditions, making it ideal for demanding scenarios in both high-temperature heat pumps and low-temperature refrigeration systems.
A key innovation in the new design is the use of disc and doughnut baffles, which enhance oil distribution within the cooler tubes. This configuration improves heat transfer on the oil side, minimizes flow surges, and reduces pressure loss, all of which contribute to greater system efficiency.
Compared to the OW series, the OWD coolers feature a more compact design with reduced dead space inside the heat exchanger. This enhancement allows for more efficient use of the tube surface, leading to higher heat throughput. Additionally, the optimized geometry accommodates a greater number of tubes, boosting power density.
Environmental impact is another area where the OWD series shows advancement. According to Bitzer, the new design achieves over a 40% reduction in CO₂ equivalents compared to its predecessor, marking a significant step toward greater sustainability in refrigeration systems.
The series is built to withstand harsh operating conditions. The specially designed baffles can endure temperatures exceeding 150°C, making the OWD coolers suitable for rigorous thermal environments.
Available in 17 variants, the OWD series includes both 2-pass and 4-pass configurations. It supports a broad range of operating conditions, with oil temperatures from –20°C to +150°C, oil pressures up to 32 bar, and water temperatures between –20°C and +95°C at up to 10 bar. The units are compatible with both fresh water and seawater, further expanding their application potential.
With the introduction of the OWD series, Bitzer reinforces its commitment to innovation, efficiency, and sustainability across its compressor and cooling system product lines.
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