A novel solar operated DC compressor refrigerator with thermal energy storage

Abstract

ABSTRACT In this work, the performance of HC600a and HFC134a refrigerant-based solar refrigerator with DC compressor was simulated and experimentally compared. Simulation of photovoltaic panel output was done with respect to three parameters: hourly average solar insolation, wind speed, and ambient temperature. This study includes the analysis of different seasons, involving both sunny and cloudy conditions for the compressor speeds of 2000, 2500, 3000 and 3500 rpm. The deviation encountered in this study is acceptable, and it is within 5% of the experimental values. HC600a system was seen having a maximum cooling energy of 3234 kJ with maximum system energy utilization efficiency of 14.3% at 3500 rpm in the summer season, while HFC134a showed 3198 kJ of maximum cooling energy with 14.1% of system energy utilization efficiency at 3000 rpm. The HC600a was seen producing maximum annual ice production of about 3175 kg, which was 8.5% higher than that of HFC134a. Finally, the DC compressor speeds for both the refrigerants were optimized for achieving maximum annual ice production. Overall, the solar-based refrigeration unit with HC600a was found to be the appropriate choice with thermal energy storage than that of the existing refrigeration unit with HFC134a for Chennai climatic conditions.