Title: Exergy modelling of vapour compression heat pumps using refrigerant mixtures

Authors: Athina Stegou-Sagia, Argyro Papadaki

Addresses: School of Mechanical Engineering, Department of Thermal Engineering, National Technical University of Athens, 9 Iroon Polytechniou Str., Zografou 15780, Athens, Greece. ' School of Mechanical Engineering, Department of Thermal Engineering, National Technical University of Athens, 9 Iroon Polytechniou Str., Zografou 15780, Athens, Greece

Abstract: Our work outlines the variation of exergy efficiency factor, COP and exergy flow related to the replacement of R22 in vapour compression heat pumps with the mixtures R407C and R410A. A mathematical model was developed to simulate the relevant thermodynamic cycles and an attempt was made for our results (efficiency and exergy losses) to be presented. Furthermore, particular attention has been given to the presentation of the equations of enthalpy and entropy of the substitute refrigerants, as these resulting from the Martin-Hou Equation of State. The results of this paper will enhance the design philosophy because exergy analysis contributes in the minimisation of losses and improves the systems operational cost.

Keywords: exergy efficiency; enthalpy; entropy; equations; exergy analysis; heat pumps; exergy modelling; simulation; vapour compression; refrigerant mixtures; exergy flow; thermodynamic cycles; exergy losses; operational costs.

DOI: 10.1504/IJEX.2006.009783

International Journal of Exergy, 2006 Vol.3 No.3, pp.305 - 322

Published online: 10 May 2006 *

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