Developments in geothermal energy in Mexico—Part five: The commissioning of an ammonia/water absorption cooler operating on low enthalpy geothermal energy

Abstract

An attractive way of using low enthalpy geothermal energy is to produce refrigeration using heat driven absorption coolers. This would enable food to be stored for long periods for use in national emergencies. Research and development is required on small systems before large scale systems can be designed with confidence. An experimental ammonia/water absorption cooler has been designed with a cooling capacity of 10.5 kW and installed at the Los Azufres geothermal field. The unit has operated successfully with generator temperatures as low as 91°C and with cooling chamber temperatures down to −5°C.