Initially used for compact evaporators, spray technology was subsequently implemented on shell-and-tube flooded evaporators. Depending on the geometry, the saving of refrigerant charge ranges from 50% up to 70% compared to a flooded solution of the same size and performance.
The low refrigerant level allows spray evaporators to be used with screw compressors, as the oil concentration is limited to a smaller amount of liquid and is therefore easier to tap through jet pumps. The non-flooded area of the bundle also allows the spray evaporator to be used as a liquid receiver, as it can accommodate tens of kilograms of extra refrigerant without changes in efficiency.
Environmental regulations impose increasingly stringent limits. Therefore, reducing the amount of refrigerant is a major advantage, especially for large volumes. The ESWT spray top version places the liquid refrigerant inlet 45° above the center line, saving additional refrigerant charge and reducing the space required at the base of the exchanger.
