Effect of ZnO nanoparticles in R290/R600a (50/50) based vapour compression refrigeration system added via lubricant oil on compressor suction and discharge characteristics

Abstract

The primary source of energy consumption in a vapour compression refrigeration system is a compressor. The possibility of a reduction in the work of compression may leads to enhance the compressor suction and discharge characteristics and the overall performance of the refrigeration system. The present experimental investigation based upon the study of ZnO nanoparticles in a vapour compression refrigeration system using hydrocarbon blend R290/R600a (50/50) as a refrigerant. The zinc oxide nanoparticles are appended with system refrigerant via compressor lubricating oil. The results observed that by using different weight concentrations of nanoparticles in R290/R600a refrigeration system, both the compressor suction and discharge pressures and temperatures were reduced compared to conventional system. The viscosity of mineral oil with the addition of nanoparticles increases. The compressor energy consumption was reduced by 7.48 % using (0.2–1.0) wt% concentrations of nanoparticles. The COP of the refrigeration system has been increased by about 46 % with the addition of nanoparticles. Thus, the ZnO nanoparticles worked efficiently in the R290/R600a refrigeration system.