Abstract
Vapor compression systems (VCS) cover a wide range of applications and consume large amounts of energy. In this context, previous research identified the optimization of the condenser fans speed as a promising measure to improve the energy efficiency of VCS. The present paper introduces a steady-state modeling approach of an air-cooled VCS to predict the ideal condenser fan speed. The model consists of a hybrid characterization of the main components of a VCS and the optimization problem is formulated as minimizing the total energy consumption by respectively adjusting the condenser fan and compressor speed. In contrast to optimization strategies found in the literature, the proposed model does not relay on algorithms, but provides a single optimization term to predict the ideal fan speed. A detailed experimental validation demonstrates the feasibility of the model approach and further suggests that the ideal condenser fan speed can be calculated with sufficient precision, assuming constant evaporating pressure, compressor efficiency, subcooling, and superheating, respectively. In addition, a control strategy based on the developed model is presented, which is able to drive the VCS to its optimal operation. Therefore, the study provides a crucial input for set-point optimization and steady-state modeling of air-cooled vapor compression systems.
Highlights
Vapor compression systems (VCS) are used in many technical applications, such as the air conditioning of buildings, food temperature control, automotive applications, etc., and consume a considerable amount of energy
The ideal condenser fan speed exhibits athe strong dependence on the fan ambient and the refrigeration capacity [7,8]
Further studies employ artificial neuronal networks (ANN) [18,20], sate space modeling [27], exergy-based models [28], and semi-empirical models [16] to predict the ideal condenser fan speed. In addition to these model-based methods, the model-free method of extremum seeking control is discussed for the set-point optimization of VCS [29,30]
Summary
Vapor compression systems (VCS) are used in many technical applications, such as the air conditioning of buildings, food temperature control, automotive applications, etc., and consume a considerable amount of energy. Air conditioning and refrigeration account for about. 24% of household energy consumption in the USA [1] and for hot and high humid countries like. Singapore this consumption can represent over 50% [2]. Increasing the energy efficiency of VCS through optimization and control appears to be a key issue [3]. One prospective possibility for energy saving is the quasi-stationary control, which aims to achieve the highest possible efficiency within one operating condition, i.e., set-point optimization
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