Delivering Precision Plumbing for Clean Tech: Denommee’s Dry Chiller Installation at a Hydrogen Stack Production Facility

As the clean energy revolution accelerates, the need for highly specialized industrial infrastructure is greater than ever. At the center of this movement is a cutting-edge electrochemical stack manufacturer in central New England, focused on large-scale, clean hydrogen production. Supporting this facility’s high-performance cooling demands, Denommee Plumbing, HVAC & Electric recently completed a complex commercial plumbing project centered on a 515,000 BTU dry chiller system—a critical component in the thermal regulation of hydrogen stack manufacturing.

In this blog post, we explore the scope of the project, the technology behind dry chillers, and how Denommee delivered precise results that support mission-critical operations at one of New England’s most innovative energy tech facilities.

Project Overview: Chilled Water Supply for a 515,000 BTU Dry Chiller

The dry chiller project served a dual purpose: ensuring the manufacturer could safely cool sensitive electrochemical components while increasing process efficiency and uptime.

Denommee’s Scope of Work:

Denommee’s commercial plumbing team was contracted to provide:

• Chilled water supply and return piping, including all hangers, valves, insulation, and pressure-rated fittings.

• Coordination with electrical and HVAC teams for integration with the dry chiller’s control and power systems.

• Custom piping layouts and bracketed support systems inside a steel-framed structure, tailored to maximize efficiency and access for future maintenance.

This was a highly detailed and specialized installation. Noteworthy features include:

• Rigidly anchored pipe brackets aligned perfectly with structural steel columns.

• Clearly labeled and color-coded chilled water supply and return lines.

• Mechanical grooved couplings used for flexibility and serviceability.

• Insulated copper piping to minimize thermal loss and maintain target water temperatures.

• Isolation ball valves for future maintenance and zone control.

This is an example of industrial-grade execution by Denommee’s experienced team of professional commercial plumbers.

What is a Dry Chiller and Why It’s Ideal for Hydrogen Manufacturing

To understand the value of this installation, it’s important to clarify what a dry chiller is and why it was selected for this facility.

Dry Chiller vs. Traditional Chiller

A dry chiller is a type of air-cooled heat exchanger that uses ambient air to remove heat from a recirculating fluid—usually water or a water/glycol mix—without relying on a refrigeration cycle or water-based evaporative cooling.

Key Features:

• Compressor-free operation – no refrigerant required.

• Ambient air-cooled coils for heat dissipation.

• Energy-efficient fan systems that modulate based on load and temperature.

• Low maintenance – fewer moving parts compared to mechanical chillers.

Why It’s Ideal for Clean Hydrogen Facilities

Hydrogen stack manufacturing produces a substantial amount of process heat. For this facility:

• Temperature stability is critical for electrochemical performance and lifespan.

• Water conservation is a priority—dry chillers eliminate the need for cooling towers and evaporative losses.

• Lower carbon footprint – no refrigerants, fewer emissions, and reduced energy use.

By using a dry chiller paired with Denommee’s expertly routed chilled water loop, the facility gains operational stability and environmental efficiency.

Technical Highlights of Denommee’s Plumbing Work

Denommee’s team executed each phase of this project with industrial precision and safety as top priorities.

1. Pipe Routing and Layout Coordination

• Chilled water lines were run along structural steel framing.

• Close collaboration with other trades (steel, HVAC, and controls) ensured no clashes or rework.

• Precise bracket mounting and spacing followed the manufacturer's installation best practices.

2. System Components and Materials

• Type L copper piping selected for long-term durability and heat resistance.

• All pipe joints were joined using ProPress technology for clean, flame-free connections.

• Pipe runs included:

  • Isolation valves

  • Flow balancing valves

  • Drain ports for serviceability

  • Temperature sensors pre-wired for integration

3. Code Compliance and Testing

• System was pressure-tested above rated operating pressure for full leak assurance.

• All materials used met Massachusetts Plumbing Code and ASHRAE 90.1 standards for energy efficiency.

• Final inspection passed without issue.

Why Denommee Was the Right Choice for This Project

This wasn’t an ordinary plumbing job—it was a precision-engineered system with direct implications for clean energy production. Denommee was selected based on its reputation for delivering mission-critical commercial MEP projects on time, on budget, and without compromise.

1. Expertise in Commercial Chilled Water Systems

Denommee’s commercial plumbing division routinely installs chilled and condenser water systems for industrial and cleanroom environments. Their experience extends to:

• Process cooling for manufacturing

• Hydronic systems for data centers

• Medical and laboratory grade water systems

2. In-House Project Management

From estimate to closeout, Denommee assigned a dedicated project manager who coordinated:

• Submittals and material approvals

• Fabrication timelines

• Integration with the dry chiller manufacturer’s specifications

• Field installation crew scheduling

This ensured minimal disruption to adjacent construction and helped avoid costly change orders.

3. Trimble Layout + Fabrication-Ready Precision

Using Trimble laser layout tools, Denommee ensured precise pipe placement on both vertical and horizontal runs—critical when working in tight spaces and around sensitive equipment. Combined with their in-house prefabrication capabilities, this resulted in cleaner installs and reduced onsite time.

4. Commitment to Sustainability and the Clean Energy Mission

Denommee doesn’t just install systems—they align their work with the environmental and operational goals of the client. For this hydrogen production facility, that meant:

• Supporting decarbonization goals with low-emission systems

• Ensuring all pipe insulation and materials met engineered standards

• Designing for future scalability

Conclusion: Building the Future of Clean Energy, One Chilled Water Line at a Time

Denommee Plumbing, HVAC & Electric’s commercial work for the dry chiller system in central New England stands as a testament to their technical capability and alignment with the future of energy. With precise execution, deep industrial knowledge, and a passion for doing things right the first time, Denommee delivered a critical infrastructure component for one of the region’s most innovative hydrogen manufacturers.

If your facility is pursuing a clean energy mission or needs high-performance MEP installation, Denommee stands ready to deliver.

Need to consult on a chilled water system or dry chiller integration?

Call us 781-272-4121 to speak to our commercial plumbing installation team.