Analysis of a solar powered absorption system

• Conventional absorption system modified to increase COP.
• Results indicated increase of 10% in COP due to dephlegmator heat recovery.
• Results indicated increase of 8% in COP due to refrigerant storage unit.
• Results indicated increase of 18% in COP due to combined effect of modifications.
• Simulation results indicated a very good agreement with the measured results.

Today, fossil fuel is the primary extensively used source of energy. However, its negative impact on the environment have forced the energy research continuity to seriously consider renewable sources of energy. Solar energy, in particular, has been the main focus in this regard because it is a source of clean energy and naturally available. This study presents the design and analysis of a solar powered absorption refrigeration system modified to increase its coefficient of performance (COP). The modifications include recovering of waste heat from a dephlegmator and utilization of a refrigerant storage unit. The simulation results indicate an increase of 10% in the COP of the conventional design using dephlegmator heat recovery and an increase of 8% in the COP of the conventional design due to the use of a refrigerant storage. The analysis for the combined effect of modifications indicates an increase of 18% in the COP compared to conventional design. Calculated values of coefficient of performance indicate a very good agreement with the ones obtained based on measurement.

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