Design and Fabrication of Vapour Compression Refrigeration Cycle Based On Storage Type Domestic Water Heater

Abstract

In present scenario, generally VCR (Vapour Compression Refrigeration) cycle is used for heating and cooling. The adverse effect of release of refrigerant like global warming and ozone depletion in the atmosphere is known to all. Electric heaters use electricity which is obtained from thermal power plant run on fossil fuels. The aim of the project is to demonstrate the economic benefit of using heat rejected in the condenser of Vapour Compression Refrigeration (VCR) system and to check the feasibility of the apparatus for mass production. The main aim of the project is to develop economically viable VCR cycle based domestic water heater (Heat pump) which has a good payback period and low energy consumption compare to electric-resistance heater. To develop storage type water heater, helical coil shaped condenser brazed inside the water storage tank has been designed. Since the capacity of the VCR system is less, capillary tube has been used as an expansion device. The VCR cycle based DWH has been tested extensively and heating capacity of about 725 W has been obtained. This may be due to under sizing of evaporator or condenser or may be due to larger capillary length. The VCR cycle based DWH can save up to Rs. 4770 compared to electric resistance water heater. The simple payback period for DWH is 3 year and 1 month.