Active Thermal Cooling

The very act of cooling involves the transfer of thermal energy. Conventional compressor-based air conditioning systems work by expelling thermal energy (heat) from the inside of the home to the outdoors. These systems do not, however, use thermal energy to drive the cooling process. Other system types, such as absorption chillers, use manufactured thermal heat to activate an endothermic cooling process.

The designation as an "active" cooling system is also significant. An active cooler is one side of a coin, the other side representing a passive system. The active side of the coin uses mechanical components in some way, usually to pump fluids and blow air through the cooling unit and in or out of the building.

Most thermally-activated cooling systems are driven by one of three energy sources, the most common being gas-fired systems (propane or natural gas). Coming up, however, in the current drive for renewable, energy efficient heating and cooling options are geothermal and solar thermal systems. The reason these three energy sources dominate is the simple fact that thermal cooling systems work via heat rather than electricity. Other than that, they're essentially air conditioners.

Thermal cooling is primarily used in large-scale, commercial or industrial settings, but once again, the advent of renewable energy is driving demand for active thermal cooling systems into the residential arena. Some electricity is necessary to run pumps and blowers but is considerably less than that used in conventional electric air conditioners.

Thermally activated cooling systems (TACS) are more expensive initially than active electric systems, which thus far has limited their widespread use. Savings in energy consumption will make up for that cost difference over time, especially in larger buildings where more energy stands to be saved.

Solar Absorption Cooling / Active Thermal Cooling / Thermal Chiller