Using a heat pipe as a waste air heat exchanger in a central air conditioner.

Abstract

The purpose of this work is to analyze the literature on heat pipes to make a decision on the feasibility of using this type of heat exchanger in air conditioning systems. The article describes the principle of operation and design of the heat pipe, provides various ways to return condensate, and also describes in detail its thermodynamic cycle. Considerable attention is paid to various wick structures and working fluids. The following are the restrictions on heat transfer of heat pipes that affect the performance of the heat exchanger. Design recommendations found in the scientific literature and on the websites of manufacturing companies are also described. The diagrams of the heat pipe designs used in central air conditioners and in AC system are given. An example of an installation using heat pipes as a waste air heat exchanger in a central air conditioner is shown. Further, the efficiency and thermal power of various methods of heat recovery are compared with the same initial parameters of the flow rate and temperatures of outdoor, exhaust air. In conclusion, the conclusion is made about the advantages of using heat pipes in AC system for heat recovery. The reason for the rare use of this heat exchanger is also explained. The result of comparing different methods of heat recovery and the answer to the question about the prospects of using a heat pipe in the AC system is given. Recommendations are given on the direction of further research in this topic.