1. What is Industrial HVAC Tonnage?

Industrial HVAC tonnage refers to the cooling capacity of air conditioning systems, measured in tons of refrigeration. One ton of refrigeration equals 12,000 BTU/h (British Thermal Units per hour), which represents the amount of heat required to melt one ton of ice in 24 hours.

2. How Does the Calculator Work?

The calculator uses the tonnage formula:

Where:

• \( Ton \) — Tons of refrigeration
• \( BTU \) — British Thermal Units per hour (BTU/h)

Explanation: This formula converts BTU/h cooling capacity to equivalent tons of refrigeration, which is the standard unit for sizing industrial HVAC systems.

3. Importance of Tonnage Calculation

Details: Accurate tonnage calculation is crucial for proper HVAC system sizing, energy efficiency, and ensuring adequate cooling capacity for industrial spaces and processes.

4. Using the Calculator

Tips: Enter the BTU/h value from your HVAC system specifications or load calculation. The value must be greater than zero for accurate results.

5. Frequently Asked Questions (FAQ)

Q1: What is the relationship between tons and BTU?
A: One ton of refrigeration equals 12,000 BTU per hour. This conversion is standard across the HVAC industry.

Q2: Why is tonnage important in HVAC design?
A: Proper tonnage ensures the HVAC system can handle the heat load of the space, maintain comfortable temperatures, and operate efficiently.

Q3: How do I determine the BTU requirement for my space?
A: BTU requirements are calculated based on square footage, insulation, windows, occupancy, equipment heat output, and climate conditions.

Q4: What's the difference between residential and industrial tonnage?
A: The calculation is the same, but industrial systems typically handle larger loads and may have different design considerations for process cooling.

Q5: Can this calculator be used for chillers?
A: Yes, this formula applies to all types of refrigeration systems including chillers, air handlers, and packaged units.