Analytical study on condensation heat distribution modes in a hybrid vapor compression refrigeration system

A hybrid vapor compression refrigeration system subcooled by liquid desiccant dehumidification and evaporative cooling has been proved to be energy-efficient, where condensation heat is used for solution regeneration. To improve the condensation heat utilization efficiency, its distribution ratio (R) on the regeneration air and solution is considered, and three utilization modes are shown by varying R from 0 to 1: Mode 1 (R is 1), Mode 2 (R is 0) and Mode 3 (R is 0.2, 0.4, 0.6 and 0.8). System performance of the three modes is compared under various operating conditions. Mode 1 and Mode 3 systems show better performance than the Mode 2 system when the solution concentration is relatively high or the condensing temperature is relatively low, otherwise there is little difference among the three modes. The maximum COP 5.5 and the maximum performance improvement 17.6% are obtained both in Mode 1 and Mode 3 systems. In addition, the maximum discrepancy of the moisture removal rate between the Mode 1 system and the regenerator is 77.7%, which indicates that supply of the condensation heat exceeds demand of the regeneration heat in the Mode 1 system, and redundant condensation heat should be used for other purposes.