This paper presents the philosophy and challenges in developing simulation models of vapor-compression refrigeration chillers. The process involved reviewing over 60 research papers on both steady-state and transient models. Due to the apparent lack of literature pertaining specifically to vapor-compression chillers, the survey inevitably uncovered areas that require detailed scientific investigation, including the need for a "complete" chiller model that incorporates detailed models of each component in the system. Both steady-state and transient simulations are required to quantify the part-load operation of the chillers, transient effects such as start-up and shut-down phenomena, and the variation between two different part-load operating conditions.

Units: SI