Experimental analysis of the effects of climate conditions on heat pump system performance

Abstract

In this study, it was aimed to reveal the energy and exergy losses caused by air temperature and water vapor in the air, which are the most important elements of climatic conditions, in heating-cooling processes and in the operation of the heat pump system. Two water source heat pumps were used in the system established for the experimental analysis. The relative humidity and temperature of the atmospheric air were reduced with the first heat pump. Relative humidity levels of 30%, 40%, 50%, 60%, 70%, 80%, 90%, respectively, were provided to the air brought to 20 °C, 23 °C, 26 °C, 29 °C, 32 °C temperature levels in the system. The effects of the air reaching the desired humidity and temperature on the 2nd heat pump were determined with temperature, humidity, pressure, flow and ampermeters for air, water and refrigerant. The results were subjected to thermodynamic calculations and presented graphically. This experimental studies done revealed that water vapor (relative humidity) in the air increases the exergy destruction on heating and cooling works. It was revealed that the heat pump components, especially the evaporator, suffer high exergy losses. With the increase of relative humidity, exergy and energy losses in heat pumps and each of their components also increase. In this study, it was revealed that the heating and cooling works became more difficult with the increase of water vapor in the air. Accordingly, it was observed that the heat pump system elements can be operated in different styles and capacities in high humidity areas.