Investigation of Solar Powered Single Effect Absorption System

Abstract

Cooling processes like refrigeration and air conditioning are known for their high energy consumption. Since most Indian states experience abundant sunshine year-round, solar refrigeration is a suitable technology for the country. Solar-powered absorption refrigeration systems offer a viable alternative to traditional refrigeration, providing not only cooling and ice-making capabilities but also energy savings and environmental benefits. However, further research is necessary to enable widespread industrial adoption and the replacement of conventional refrigeration systems with solar powered absorption system. Using solar energy for an air-conditioning system is typically more cost-effective, when it can fulfil both heating and cooling needs. This research focuses on the thermodynamic modelling of a system, specifically the effect of various temperature on COP. Thermodynamic modelling was done with the help of first law of thermodynamics. Using engineering equation solver software, study simulated the cycle and equations were developed for energy and mass flow for each component. Further, before proceeding to analysis some assumptions were also made. We then analysed how the Coefficient of Performance (COP) changed when varying the temperatures across each component. Our findings show that COP increases with increase in condenser, evaporator, and absorber temperatures, but it is declined with decrease in generator temperature.