Experimental performance of an ejector refrigeration system using methanol as a working fluid

Abstract

SYNOPSIS This paper presents experimental performance of an ejector refrigeration system using methanol as the working fluid. The work is part of a research project to investigate and develop passive ejector refrigeration using natural “environmentally friendly” fluids. The passivity could be achieved by utilizing either the capillary head of heat pipe devices or the gravity head of a vertical column of liquid to circulate the working fluid between the condenser and the steam generator. The system would be suitable for cooling buildings or use as a vehicle air conditioning system and would provide substantial economic and environmental benefits. The passivity of the system would give it a potential of long life and unlike vapour-compression units, it would produce no noise or vibration and require less frequent servicing. Results of the experiments are presented and compared with those for a water-based ejector refrigeration system. A coefficient of performance (COP) between 0.2 and 0.4 would be possible using low grade heat, such as solar energy and waste heat. Results also showed the possibility of achieving evaporator temperatures below the freezing point of water, which of course would not be possible with a water ejector refrigeration system.