Study of solar absorption cooling systems

Kumar, P

Abstract

Solar energy is a vast and inexhaustible source of energy.
However, solar radiation approaching the earth's surface is variable.
Efficient use of this radiation is complicated by this variable nature.
The work described in this thesis deals mainly with the use of solar
energy for absorption cooling systems.
Basic cooling and heat pump systems are described in brief.
A literature survey of the absorption cooling systems is given and the
scope for research work in this area is discussed.
The effect of variations of the parameters in the closed cycle
and open cycle absorption cooling systems has been analysed in order
to optimise the performance of the systems. Experimental verification
of the above analysis for a closed cycle system using water-lithium
bromide as a working pair is presented along with some typical
characteristic performance data for certain conditions. These
conditions are lower generator temperatures, which lead to more
efficient solar energy collection systems and higher absorber/condenser
temperatures providing the feasibility of air cooling. Computer
programs for the above analyses are given.
A closed cycle absorption system using water-lithium bromide
has also been theoretically analysed for simultaneous cooling and
heating. A computer program developed for the above analysis is
presented.
A modification in the practical cycle to achieve high
temperature lifts for simultaneous heating and cooling appears to be
very attractive. An expression for coefficient of performance of an
ideal absorption cycle system, when condensing temperature is not equal
to absorber temperature, has been derived. Experimental verification
of the above concept in a single stage cycle is also reported.
An experimental unit to generate design data for a solar
generator, of an open cycle absorption cooling system has been designed
and installed. This unit is described in detail. Solar simulation
has been done in two ways. The first way is by a radiation source
consisting of CSI lamps and the second way is by providing an
equivalent electrical heat flux. The relationship between the two is
discussed. Based on the experimental data obtained, correlations in
conventional forms for heat and mass transfer operations in the
generator are presented.
A mathematical model of the solar generator incorporating the
above correlations is discussed. A computer program for the
prediction of the performance of the generator is presented. The
experimental results are compared with the predicted results and
optimum conditions for various situations are discussed.

Citation

Kumar, P. Study of solar absorption cooling systems. (Thesis). University of Salford

• Thesis Type: Thesis
• Deposit Date: Aug 17, 2011
• Publicly Available Date: Aug 17, 2011
• Award Date: Jan 1, 1984