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PSAU Al-Kharj University

PreCool utilizes the natural principle of water evaporation to create a cooling effect. The system is installed around air-cooled chillers to pre-cool the ambient air before it enters the condenser.

How It Works:

Hot ambient air approaches the cooling system, Water is distributed over the Oxyvap® pads, Air passes through the wet pads, causing water evaporation, Evaporation absorbs heat, cooling the air, by up to 25°C, Cooled air enters the condenser, improving efficiency.

PSAU Al-Kharj UniversityPSAU Al-Kharj University

Project Overview

Prince Sattam bin Abdulaziz University (PSAU) in Al-Kharj faced recurring issues with their central air-cooled chiller plant, particularly during extreme summer conditions.

Challenges:

Extreme ambient temperatures exceeding 60°C Frequent system cutoffs due to overheating compressors Compromised cooling capacity across campus

Implementation:

A custom PreCooll wet wall system was installed surrounding the entire chiller plant with 11 chillers totaling 4400 TR capacity.

Key Results:

  • 20% reduction in power consumption and peak load demand

  • Prevented system shutdowns during extreme heat conditions

  • Improved operational reliability across the campus

Comprehensive Performance Analysis

Detailed technical analysis of PreCooll implementations across multiple projects in Saudi Arabia demonstrates consistent performance improvements in various metrics.

Key Technical Findings:

  • Average temperature reduction: 15-25°C

  • Energy efficiency improvement: 30-40%

  • Compressor head pressure reduction: 20-30%

  • Extended equipment lifespan: +40%

Environmental Impact Analysis:

Parameter

Per 1000 kW Cooling

National Scale Potential

Annual Energy Savings

1,050 MWh

4.2 TWh

CO₂ Emissions Reduction

630 tons/year

2.5 million tons/year

Water Conservation (Net)

840 m³/year

3.4 million m³/year

Peak Power Reduction

350 kW

1.4 GW

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Financial Impact Assessment

PreCooll systems deliver substantial economic benefits through direct energy savings, reduced maintenance costs, and extended equipment lifespan. The analysis below is based on actual implementation data from Saudi Arabian projects.

Key Financial Metrics:

  • Average ROI period: 1.5-2.5 years

  • Annual energy cost reduction: 30-40%

  • Maintenance cost reduction: 15-25%

  • Equipment replacement deferral: 3-5 years

Additional Economic Benefits:

  • Grid Infrastructure Savings: Reduced peak demand decreases the need for additional power generation capacity

  • Operational Continuity: Fewer system failures during peak summer conditions

  • Carbon Credit Potential: Emissions reductions may qualify for carbon credits

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Key Findings

  • Energy Efficiency: Up to 40% energy savings with significant peak power reduction

  • Cooling Performance: Up to 20% increased capacity and improved reliability

  • Water Efficiency: Net water savings when considering electricity production

  • Equipment Longevity: Extended chiller life and reduced maintenance costs

Recommendations for Implementation:

  • Conduct site-specific feasibility studies to determine optimal configuration

  • Prioritize implementation at facilities with high cooling demands and extreme temperatures

  • Consider PreCooll for both new installations and retrofits of existing systems

  • Implement comprehensive monitoring to quantify energy and water savings

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