Carrier 16NK Double-Effect Steam-Fired Absorption Chiller
Comprehensive guide for the Carrier 16NK absorption chiller, featuring technical specifications, physical data, and control board operation.
Quick answers from the manual
Quick answer
- The Carrier 16NK is a double-effect steam-fired absorption chiller. It uses low-pressure steam as a heat source to provide cooling, offering an energy-efficient alternative to traditional motor-compressor chillers. p. 1, 3
Key actions
- Monitor the control board for status indicators such as 'Operation', 'Stop', 'Alarm', and 'Safety Circuit' to ensure stable operation. p. 4
Problems and fixes
Check the control board indicators (Chiller/Heater Alarm, Burner Alarm, Safety Circuit) to identify the fault source.
p. 4Technical specifications
| Parameter | Value | Meaning | Pages |
|---|---|---|---|
| Power supply | 400V-3ph-50Hz | Standard electrical requirement for all 16NK models. | p. 2 |
| Cooling capacity | 345 to 4652 kW | Range of cooling output across 18 available sizes. | p. 1, 2 |
Where to find it in the PDF
- Product Overview p. 1, 3
- Physical Data Table p. 2
- Control Board p. 4
Table of contents
Manual images
Click an image to enlargeQuick guide from the manual
The Carrier 16NK is a double-effect steam-fired absorption chiller designed for cooling applications utilizing low-pressure steam as waste heat. This document provides essential physical data, operational features, and control board instructions for the 16NK series.

Features and advantages
- Efficiency: Designed for cooling applications where low-pressure steam is available as waste heat.
- Environmental impact: Minimizes global warming effect by reducing power consumption and eliminating greenhouse gas generation.
- Operational benefits: Features reduced noise and vibration levels due to the absence of a large motor-compressor.
- Control: Equipped with an auto-diagnosis system, high-precision control, and an inverter-controlled absorption pump for energy-saving operation.
- Safety: Includes state-of-the-art protection devices to ensure enhanced operating safety.
Physical data
The manual provides detailed physical specifications for eighteen sizes of the 16NK chiller, ranging from 345 kW to 4652 kW in nominal cooling capacity. Key data points for each model include:
- Chilled water system: Flow rate, pressure drop, connection size (ANSI), and retention volume.
- Cooling water system: Flow rate, pressure drop, connection size (ANSI), and retention volume.
- Steam system: Consumption (kg/h) based on saturated steam at 784 kPa.
- Dimensions and weight: Length, height, width, and operating weight.
- Power supply: Standardized at 400V-3ph-50Hz.
Controls
The display and control board allows for monitoring and operation of the chiller. Key components include:

- Data display: Shows operating information.
- Indicators: Includes status lights for operation, stop, alarm, combustion, cooling/heating, stand-by, dilution, safety circuit, and power.
- Controls: Buttons for setting parameters, remote/local selection, and buzzer stop.
Manufacturer information
Carrier Global Corporation
Practical help
Common problems
Check the control board for specific alarm codes or indicators (e.g., Chiller/Heater Alarm, Burner Alarm) and refer to the auto-diagnosis system status.
Verify the safety circuit indicator on the control board; if lit, inspect the system for safety violations or faults.
Before use
- Ensure low-pressure steam supply is available.
- Verify that the power supply matches the 400V-3ph-50Hz requirement.
- Check that chilled water and cooling water systems are connected according to ANSI specifications.
- Confirm the specific model size (11-81) to match flow rates and pressure drops.
- Ensure the control board is set to the desired operation mode (Local/Remote).
Specs in practice
- Nominal cooling capacity
- The cooling output range of the unit, varying from 345 kW to 4652 kW depending on the model.
- Steam consumption
- The amount of saturated steam (784 kPa) required for operation, ranging from 400 kg/h to 5300 kg/h.
- Power supply
- All models operate on a 400V, 3-phase, 50Hz electrical supply.
Images and diagrams
- The control board diagram identifies 13 key indicators and buttons, including operation mode selection, data display, and various status indicators like 'Chiller/Heater Alarm' and 'Safety Circuit'.
Model compatibility
- Designed for use with low-pressure steam systems.
- Can be integrated into district steam systems.
Manual page author
David Miller
Documentation analyst
Organizes user manual content into clear summaries, with attention to model details, product context, and everyday usability.