Computational study of a novel continuous solar adsorption chiller: performance prediction and adsorbent selection

Abstract

SUMMARYA novel solar adsorption chiller intended for domestic use is presented. The chiller can be integrated with existing solar systems based on flat plate collectors, and, contrary to commercial chillers, it operates continuously. A detailed analysis of both the simple and the heat-integrated cycle is carried out so as to select the optimal adsorbent and operating conditions. The employed integral thermodynamic model takes into account the inert masses that limit the performance of the chiller, such as the metal frame, the thermofluid, and the non-adsorbed steam, by introducing heat capacity effects. Given the adsorption equilibrium data, the energy balances, the performance, and the useful thermal loads of the system can be calculated at any operating conditions. The results indicate that silica gel Type A is a more efficient adsorbent compared to silica gel Type RD or Type 3A. Furthermore, the total porosity has a slight effect on system performance, while optimal operation can be achieved when the condenser temperature is less than 326 K and the evaporator temperature greater than 280 K.

Evaluation of Heat Transfer Performance of a Multi-Disc Sorption Bed Dedicated for Adsorption Cooling Technology

“…The devices, which are capable to generate chill on the ground of adsorption cooling technology can be the perfect solution to the aforementioned issues [4][5][6]. The adsorption chillers can be successfully powered with low-grade heat, which can be obtained from renewable sources, e.g., solar radiation [6], geothermal energy [7], or industrial waste heat [8][9][10][11]. They can be applied in combined cooling, heating, and power (CCHP) systems in numerous industrial and commercial applications [12] as well as in sustainable building air-conditioning using solar energy as heat source [1].…”

Heat-exchanger design and switching-frequency effects on the performance of a continuous type solar adsorption chiller

“…The skeleton is vertically perforated with cylindrical holes which house the adsorbent, in the centre of which heating/cooling water circulates via smaller-diameter vertical tubes. A more detailed description can be found elsewhere [22]. The proposed dynamical model takes into account mass and temperature variations in the axial direction, where the flow of the thermofluid occurs.…”

Experimental and simulation analysis of low temperature heat sources driven adsorption air conditioning, refrigeration, integrating ammonia, and organic expanding power generation

“…The results indicate that a higher heat transfer performance and faster kinetics can be achieved. Voyiatzis et al investigates different kinds of silica gel performance in the adsorption chiller. The results illustrate that the silica gel type A is the most efficient adsorbent among the other types.…”