Research PaperExperimental analysis of an evaporative-vapour compression based combined air conditioning system for required comfort conditions

•An evaporative vapour compression based combined air conditioning system was fabricated and tested.•System was run in three different modes according to the climatic conditions.•System performance was studied for wide range of ambient conditions.•Effects of various operating parameters on system performance were studied in detail.•Maximum energy saving was found 24% at 43.2 °C and 18.1% relative humidity.

An evaporative-vapour compression based combined air conditioning system for providing required human comfort conditions at comparatively low cost has been presented. The combined system has been experimentally analysed in a particular experimental setup at Bhopal, India for a wide range of ambient conditions in different modes of operation according to the climatic condition. System has also compared from conventional vapour compression air conditioner working at same fresh air ratio (FAR) and air flow rate for similar inside set temperature. Maximum energy saving in the combined system was found 23.8% at 43.3 °C ambient temperature and 18.1% relative humidity, while it was run at no profit-no loss condition for humid climate. The system is working well with an average monthly power saving of 58.5 kW h for moderate hot and dry, and 163.5 kW h for hot and dry conditions. Therefore it could be a better alternative to conventional air conditioning system for dry and humid climate with a payback period of 8.1 years.