Analysis of the thermoeconomical behavior on an split type air conditioner due to condenser fouling

Abstract

In this paper, an analysis of the effects of the condenser unit fouling on the performance, energy consumption a cost operation on a Split type air conditioner is presented. This was based on the fact the total heat absorbed from a space is rejected to the environment using the heat exchanger in the condenser unit. By measuring pressures, temperatures, electric current, was possible to determinate the coefficient of performance and energy consumption of the system in normal condition, it mean, when the heat exchanger of condenser unit was clean. In order to determine the deviation of coefficient of performance, energy consumption and cost operation from the normal condition, the heat exchanger in the condenser unit was obstructed from 10 to 90% of its heat transfer area, it simulated fouling due to few maintenance activities. Trough measuring the thermodynamics and electrical variables it was calculated the coefficient of performance, energy consumption and cost operation for each fouling percentage. When the heat exchanger presented an obstruction of 40% the energy consumption and the cost operation increased, whereas from 30% obstructions caused reduction in coefficient of performance, refrigeration capacity and heat rejected to environment.