Performance analysis of dual-evaporator ejector refrigeration system in different configurations: Experimental investigation

Abstract

This study aimed to assess the effectiveness of an ejector refrigeration cycle, using a laboratory-scale experimental system operating in different configurations. The investigated configurations consisted of a conventional vapour compression refrigeration (CVCR) system and a dual evaporator ejector system (DEES) operated in two modes: DEES with a single thermal expansion valve (DEESA) and DEES with dual thermal expansion valves (DEESB). The findings revealed that the utilization of the ejector enhanced the refrigerant's mass flow rate. Additionally, the DEESA configuration achieved higher cooling capacities compared to the CVCR. Moreover, the DEESA configuration achieved up to 21% higher coefficient of performance (COP) values. On the other hand, when the system was operated in the DEESB configuration, it yielded lower evaporation temperatures and higher superheating degrees in comparison to DEESA. Based on the evaluations, it can be concluded that the ejector operates more efficiently in systems with dual evaporators, thereby making positive contributions to overall system performance.