Refrigerant circuitry design of fin-and-tube condenser based on entropy generation minimization

This study presents a numerical model that is applicable to fin-and-tube condensers with complex refrigerant circuitry, and can be used to describe the exergy loss on the refrigerant side. The model was validated by comparing numerical results with experimental data for an R410A multi-pass condenser. The modeled and measured heat transfer rates were observed to agree with an error of less than 10%. Refrigerant-side performance was analyzed according to the design parameters using the numerical model, and appropriate performance evaluation criteria (PEC) were established for the refrigerant side of the condenser. A methodology was developed for refrigerant circuitry design based on entropy generation minimization (EGM). The resulting refrigerant circuit design enhanced heat transfer performance and lowered entropy generation in comparison to simple refrigerant circuitries.

► A numerical model, that describes the exergy losses inside the tubes, is presented.
► Model is validated by comparing with various capacities of condenser.
► The refrigerant side performance is analyzed using entropy generation number.
► The optimal number of passes for various quality regions is determined.
► A methodology for refrigerant circuitry design is developed.