Introduction
In previous chapters, we have considered a variety of systems that need a source of heat or cooling to operate. Many of these systems use water or steam for this source. This chapter will introduce you to the basic layout options for heating and cooling piping arrangements that distribute water or steam, hydronic circuits. It will also provide a brief discussion of the differences in their hydronic characteristics.
In each case, a flow of water or steam is distributed from a either a central boiler or a chiller, the refrigeration equipment used to produce chilled water, to the hydronic circuits. The hydronic circuits circulate the water or steam through the building, where it loses or gains heat before returning to be re-heated or re-cooled.
The water or steam is treated with chemicals to inhibit corrosion and bacterial growth in the system.