About CLACS

There are several chiller technologies and efficiencies available in the market. While chiller efficiencies are defined at standard rating conditions, their performance varies as per usage and site conditions. Therefore, selecting chiller and its configurations is a complex challenge.

The CLACS Tool uses a combination of annual simulation-based approach and sequential parametric algorithms to facilitate early design insights towards chiller sizing and operation controls. The web-based tool accounts for building geometry, schedule of operation and impact of weather for analysis. This tool facilitates project creation, online simulation, interactive result visualization and report generation. The tool accepts Input Definition File (IDF) from Energy Plus and uses Python package for EnergyPlus (eppy) to perform the analysis.

This methodology presents early design chiller configurations using an annual simulation-based approach. These outcomes will provide insights to consultants and chiller manufacturers for customizing chillers for buildings.

A module-wise input/output matrix is presented here: