Theoretical exploration of low GWP refrigerant mixtures as replacement to HFC-134A in a vapour compression refrigeration system

Abstract

Hydro-fluorocarbons (HFCs) that are not harmful to ozone layer and are used in many appli-cations, including as refrigerants, aerosols, solvents and blowing agents for insulating foams replace chlorofluorocarbons and hydro chlorofluorocarbons (HCFCs). However, some HFCs have a high GWP, which stands for “Global Warming Potential(GWP).” Because of the grow-ing concern over global climate change, researchers are paying closer attention for alternatives to these HFCs. The main focus of this work was on the theoretical analysis of the refrigerant mixtures namely AC5, R430A, and R440A as direct replacements for HFC-134a in a refriger-ator. The performance of the refrigerator may be enhanced using heat exchanger. The com-pressor discharge temperature, COP, VCC, refrigerant mass flow rate, power consumption of a compressor and pressure ratio were used to measure the performance of a home refrigerator. The typical COP of R440A and R430A was about 2.5% and 1.4% higher than that of HFC-134, while the average COP of AC5 was 6.1% lesser than that of HFC-134a. R430A almost has the same VCC (Volumetric Cooling Capacity) as HFC-134a. The results also show that HFC-134a uses more power than AC5, R440A, and R430A. R440A and AC5 have higher compressor outlet temperatures than HFC-134a, which affects the life span of the compressor. In com-parison with all the above refrigerants, R430A gives the best overall performance and used as replacement to HFC-134a in a VCR.