Transitioning to low GWP refrigerants in automobiles: A numerical simulation study on R1234yf/R152a’s heat transfer characteristics in porous microchannels

Abstract

Automobile air conditioning systems significantly contribute to vehicle energy consumption. The transition to new, environmentally sustainable refrigerants in place of traditional ones is a critical trend shaping the future of this industry. The prevalent refrigerant R134a, used in automotive air conditioning, is environmentally detrimental, necessitating the development of low Global Warming Potential refrigerants as viable long-term alternatives. This study examines the flow heat transfer characteristics of the proposed refrigerant blend R1234yf/R152a in porous microchannel tubes via numerical simulation. It assesses the impact of heat flux, mass flow rate, saturation temperature, and wall superheat on the Jakob number, vaporization core density, and boiling heat transfer coefficient. Furthermore, it compares these parameters with those of R134a and R1234yf to evaluate the potential of R1234yf/R152a as a substitute. The findings indicate that the Jakob number differences among the three refrigerants are negligible. Notably, R1234yf/R152a consistently exhibits higher vaporization core density and the highest boiling heat transfer coefficient, coupled with the lowest pressure drop, thereby affirming its suitability as a heat transfer-efficient alternative. These insights could inform the enhancement and gradual transition from R134a in automotive air conditioning systems.