Feasibility study and performance evaluation of low capacity water–LiBr absorption cooling systems functioning in different Algerian climate zones

Abstract

A performance analysis was carried out on water–LiBr absorption chillers performing in the five different climate zones in Algeria. A 17.6 kW single-effect and a 16 kW double-effect commercial absorption chillers were simulated. In climate zones E1 and E2, the single-effect and double-effect chillers supplied 37% and 91%, respectively, of their nominal capacity to produce chilled water at 7 °C. In the hot climate zones E3, E4 and E5, it was not feasible for either of the chillers to produce chilled water at 7 °C. By increasing the chilled water temperature to 12 °C both absorption chillers were able to operate in climate zones E3 and E4. The single-effect chiller reached 45% of its nominal capacity in zone E3 and 33% in zone E4. The double-effect chiller delivered 80% of its nominal capacity in both climate zones. Neither of the chillers was able to operate under the thermal conditions of climate zone E5.