Title: Energetic and exergetic comparative analysis of advanced vapour compression cycles for cooling applications using alternative refrigerants

Authors: Bahaa Morad; Mohamed Gadalla; Saad Ahmed

Addresses: Department of Mechanical Engineering, American University of Sharjah, Sharjah, P.O. Box 26666, UAE ' Department of Mechanical Engineering, American University of Sharjah, Sharjah, P.O. Box 26666, UAE ' Deceased; formerly of: Department of Mechanical Engineering, American University of Sharjah, Sharjah, P.O. Box 26666, UAE

Abstract: Advanced single as well as multi-stage systems of vapour compression refrigeration cycles (VCRCs) for cooling applications are presented with detailed comparative analyses. Different types of refrigerants such as R404A, R134A, R22, and R410A are used in different cycle configurations. The study involves energetic and exergetic COPs analyses for each cycle as a key indicator for the overall cycle performance. The influence of the dedicated mechanical subcooling system as well as the liquid-vapour heat exchanger on different vapour compression refrigeration cycle configurations is additionally investigated. The results of the parametric analyses show that the subcooling systems have great impacts on overall energetic and exergetic COPs as they increase the cooling capacity and reduces the power consumed by the compressor. Finally, the obtained results conclude the best configuration with the highest performance, lowest total exergy destruction and the recommended refrigerant that can be utilised in the cycle within the required operating conditions.

Keywords: advanced VCRCs; subcooling heat exchangers; energetic COP; exergetic COP; exergy analysis; exergy destruction; alternative refrigerants.

DOI: 10.1504/IJEX.2018.092524

International Journal of Exergy, 2018 Vol.26 No.1/2, pp.226 - 246

Received: 11 Sep 2017
Accepted: 06 Mar 2018
Published online: 23 Jun 2018 *

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