Leibniz Institute for Surface Modification (IOM)
The building

The Leibniz Institute for Surface Modification (IOM) is a leading research center that studies the physical and chemical processes behind modern surface
engineering technologies, developing functional and high-precision surfaces for a wide range of industrial applications and transferring scientific results into industry. The Institute’s activities require highly stable and reliable environmental conditions for process cooling, clean room cooling, and test bench cooling.
To ensure operational continuity and improve energy efficiency, the Institute upgraded its entire chilled water production system, replacing three Clivet units installed in 2001 with new-generation Clivet solutions.

The challenge

The project originated from the need to replace 23-year-old systems with modern and reliable solutions capable of ensuring continuous operation for all critical research activities. The owner aimed to improve energy efficiency and reduce noise emissions while maintaining a stable and safe operational environment. A key challenge was integrating the new units into the existing hydraulic system without disrupting ongoing operations, especially since the installation had to take place in an inner courtyard near offices, requiring an extra-low-noise configuration. At the same time, the project sought to take
advantage of low outdoor temperatures by using the free cooling technology to further enhance energy efficiency.

The solution

To meet all requirements, Clivet supplied a complete high-efficiency system with integrated free cooling and inverter technology for compressors and pumps,
minimizing compressor operation and improving energy efficiency. The equipment included:  1ELFOEnergy STORM EVO WSAT-YES FC 20.2 chiller with

  • free cooling, buffer tank, and inverter pump 
  • 1ELFOEnergy STORM EVO WSAT-YES 20.2 chiller with buffer tank and inverter pump 
  • 2× STEICA glycol protectors 
  • 1× CDK-950 buffer tank / hydraulic separator with nozzle pipes 

The new units were integrated into the existing system through a Clivet hydraulic separator.

 

The results

The project resulted in a successful full conversion of the cooling system. The new Clivet units provided reliable, continuous cooling for critical processes, clean rooms, and test benches, with improved energy efficiency through the integration of free cooling and inverter technology for compressors and pumps. The installation in the inner courtyard met the low-noise requirements, ensuring that office comfort was not affected. Although no energy certification applies, the system delivers stable and reliable performance, guaranteeing uninterrupted research activities.

The protagonists

  • Owner / Investor: Leibniz Institute for Surface Modification e.V. (IOM), Leipzig
  •  Clivet Sales Partner: Thomas Ritter
  •  Installer / Plant Manufacturer: Grahm & Söhne GmbH, Wechselburg
  • Planner: MLT Ingenieure GmbH, Leipzig