The Use of Water as a Refrigerant: Impact of Cycle Modifications on Commercial Feasibility
Date
2004Author
Lachner, Brandon F.
Publisher
University of Wisconsin-Madison
Metadata
Show full item recordAbstract
The purpose of this research was to investigate the economic feasibility of a water-based
vapor compression chiller with a nominal capacity of 1000 tons. Low-level models of
various potential cycle configurations have been constructed and the results of
simulations for each cycle configuration are described. More detailed component level
models were developed to accurately size equipment and predict system performance for
the most attractive cycle configuration. These component models address issues that are
particularly crucial in water as refrigerant cycles, such as compressor discharge superheat
and refrigerant side pressure drop. Where possible, these component models were
verified through comparison against the current state-of-the-art technology for large
chillers using R-134a as a refrigerant. The capital cost and the expected operating costs
are determined to quantify the payback time associated with using water as a refrigerant
relative to traditional halocarbon refrigerants currently in use. Other issues that may have
an economic impact on the feasibility of water as a viable alternative to R-134a such as
the possibility of using direct contact heat exchangers, purging issues, and condensation
at the compressor inlet have been discussed.
Subject
Thesis (M.S.)--University of Wisconsin--Madison, 2004.
Dissertations Academic Mechanical Engineering.
University of Wisconsin--Madison. College of Engineering.
Permanent Link
http://digital.library.wisc.edu/1793/7614Description
Under the supervision of Professor Gregory F. Nellis; 247pp.
Citation
Lachner, B.F. (2004). The Use of Water as a Refrigerant: Impact of Cycle Modifications on Commercial Feasibility. Master's Thesis, University of Wisconsin-Madison.