Application of Genetic Algorithms for Optimization of Condenser Water Loop in HVAC Systems

This paper presents an engineering application of optimization method for energy conservation in condenser water loop operation in HVAC (Heating, Ventilation and Air Conditioning) systems. Based on the analysis of component model characteristics and interactions within the cooling tower and between towers and chillers, an objective function, which minimizes the operating costs through optimal set point changes of controlled variables along with changes of outdoor environment and indoor cooling load demands, is proposed. A modified genetic algorithm is employed to optimize the condenser water loop in HVAC systems. The approach has the capability of solving the combinatorial optimization problem with both discrete variables and continuous variables. Compared with the conventional method, this method has potential to substantially reduce the operating costs and is suitable to deal with both single chiller and multi-chiller central plants. An application example is given to show the advantages of this method.