An Overview of a Two-stage Vapour Compression Cascade Refrigeration System for Low-temperature Applications

Abstract

A cascade refrigeration cycle is a multistage refrigeration system for ultra-low freezing application utilizing two stage vapour compression refrigeration system. Many refrigeration applications require low temperature for quick freezing medical items, production of ice, petroleum vapour liquefaction, pharmaceutical products preservation and storage, and manufacturing cooling processes. The two-stage cascade refrigeration system is the simplest, energy efficient and low operating cost for providing deep-freezing and maintaining extremely low temperature stability. The paper presents the overview of two-stage cascade refrigeration system for ultra-low temperature application and considered vapour compression cycle the most viable and suitable technique of attaining designed and desired temperature application. System modification using different techniques such as pre cool, flash intercooler, dedicated mechanical subcooling cycle, and novel ternary mixture of refrigerants were method adopted. The results revealed that the different techniques provide low energy consumption, high system performance and reduction in the thermal stress on the compressors as a result of reducing discharge temperature. The theoretical and experimental performance analysis outcomes showed the possibility and feasibility of achieving a low temperature of -80 0C. Vapour compression cascade refrigeration system is a promising technology in meeting the global needs for solving heat sensitive temperature-controlled products and useful in energy-deficient nations for storage and chain-distribution.