Simulated annealing based optimal chiller loading for saving energy

This study employs simulated annealing (SA) to solve the optimal chiller loading (OCL) problem. SA overcomes the flaw that the Lagrangian method is not adaptable for solving the OCL problem as the power consumption models or the kW–PLR (kilo Watt–partial load ratio) curves include non-convex functions. This study uses the chilled water supply temperature as the variable to be solved for the decoupled system. After analysis and comparison of the case study, it has been concluded that this method not only solves the problem of the Lagrangian method but also produces results with high accuracy within a rapid time frame. It can be perfectly applied to the operation of air conditioning systems.