CHAPTER-1

INTRODUCTION

1.1 Introduction to Vapour Compression Refrigeration System

By and by days, enthusiasm for the refrigeration and cooling expanded day by day.
Industry still as inside the homes there's might want for the solace climate for human
as well concerning synthetic item. this can be accomplishing by the refrigeration and
air conditioning.VCR is that the framework among all most utilized for this reason. In
this framework, refrigerant is utilized in light of the fact that the working liquid that
will be that the vital a piece of the system. Its working includes four fundamental
procedures for example compression, condensation, throttling and evaporation. The
low weight and low temperature vapor refrigerant enters into the blower through delta
valve and releases to high weight and high temperature refrigerant. At that point it
goes into the condenser wherein activity of refrigerant occurs at consistent weight and
temperature, any place it rejects warmth to the environment, right now the refrigerant
is throttled through quickening agent inside which refrigerant temperature turns out to
be low and it goes into evaporator through that it retains heat and the cycle proceeds.
the most measure parameter to learn the presentation of the system is COP that is
illustrated in light of the fact that the quantitative connection of cooling result set
aside a few minutes by time and made the alterations with in the cooling all round the
world. Various specialists control to expand the presentation of the framework.

1.1.1 Refrigerant

A refrigerant is a liquid that is utilized in air conditioners and refrigerator, to require

heat from the substance of cooler or territory (if there should arise an occurrence of
ACs) and toss warmth move into the atmosphere. A refrigerant experiences stages
changes from fluid to gas(on charming warmth) and back to fluid (when a blower
packs it). The selection of perfect refrigerant bolstered its great thermodynamical
properties, non-destructive nature and security (Non-harmful and non-flammable).A
refrigerant is that the essential working liquid utilized for immersing and transmitting
heat during a cooling. Refrigerants assimilate heat at the low temperature and weight

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and release heat at a higher temperature and weight. The vast majority of the
refrigerants experience stage changes all through warmth assimilation —vanishing—
and warmth discharging—condensation. There territory unit contrasting sorts of
refrigerant open like as HFC, HCFC, HC, azeotropes and so forth to a great extent in
refrigeration, HFC refrigerant utilized in the framework on account of their elite and
fascinating properties. Presently a days, HCF refrigerant utilization is banished
because of natural effect and ozone sphere depletion. as of now days in refrigeration
and cooling ecofriendly refrigerant presenting in light of their captivating properties .
So, hydrocarbons are the most effective distinctive because of low ODP and GWP. it's
been resolved that hydrocarbons offer higher execution instead of R-134a.Ithas been
seen that hydrocarbon refrigerant of 60% propane mass extent demonstrates
improvement over R134a in local cooler at same working conditions (Fatouh M. et al.
(2006)). Jwo Ching Tune (2009) utilized R290/R600arefrigerant instead of R134 and
get positive results by decrease in vitality consumption up to 4.4%.

1.1.2 Nano refrigerant

Nano-refrigerant which is one sort of nanofluids which is utilized to expanded the shine
move rate in the refrigeration structure. Different sorts of materials might be utilized as the
nanoparticles to be suspended into the moderate refrigerants. The nano particles utilized
with the refrigerant are called nano refrigerant. Nano molecule can be either blended with
refrigerant comparatively as oil.
D. Sendil Kumar and Dr. R. Elansezhian (2012)investigated on Nano-refrigerant. Nano
Al2O3-PAG oil was utilized as Nano-refrigerant in R134a in VCR framework and
stretched out COP up to 3.5. A.Senthilkumar& R. Praveen (2015) In this paper, in private
cooler CuO - R600a were utilized as a working liquid. The outcomes showed that CuO -
R600a can work normally and gainfully in cooler. Joined with cooler utilizing
unadulterated R600a as working liquids. 0.1g/L groupings of CuO - R600a can spare
11.83% and 0.5g/L centralization of CuO – R600a can spare 17.88% noteworthiness
utilization and the solidifying speed of CuO - R600a was more rapidly than the
unadulterated R600a framework. These examinations gives the useful result on the
introduction.

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1.2 Introduction to Nano fluids-What is Nano liquid?

Nanofluids are suspensions of nanoparticles in fluids that show noteworthy improvement

of their properties at subtle nanoparticle obsessions. Nanofluid as a splendid fluid, where
warmth move will be decreased or extended uninhibitedly, has commonly been assumed.
This paper bases on appearing wide vary of present and future applications that
incorporate nanofluids, action their improved warmth move properties that are controllable
and therefore the particular characteristics that these nanofluids have that make them
relevant for such applications.
Warm properties of liquids expect an unequivocal activity in warming what's more as
cooling applications in present day strategies. Warm standard wonder of a liquid may be a
noteworthy property that picks its glow move execution. normal warmth move fluids have 1 1 1 1 1

unavoidably poor warm standard wonder that produces them insufficient for ultra-high
1 1 1 1 1 1 1 1 1 1 1

cooling applications. Specialists have endeavored to fortify the inherently poor warm
1 1 1 1 1 1 1 1 1 1 1

trademark wonder of these typical warmth move fluids misuse solid included substances
1 1 1 1 1 1 1 1 1 1 1 1

following the customary convincing medium speculation (Maxwell, 1873) for practical
1 1 1 1 1 1 1 1 1 1

properties of mixes. Fine systematization of the size of these solid suspensions to millimeter
1 1 1 1 1 1 1 1 1 1 1 1 1 1

and micrometer ranges for rising warmth move execution have unprofitable because of the
1 1 1 1 1 1 1 1 1 1 1 1 1

drawbacks like still low warm conduction, atom sedimentation, utilization of parts of
1 1 1 1 1 1 1 1 1 1 1 1

machines, particle halting up, pointless weight drop, etc. Downscaling of particle sizes
1 1 1 1 1 1 1 1 1 1 1 1

continued inside the lookedfor new sorts of fluid suspensions having updated warm
1 1 1 1 1 1 1 1 1 1 1 1

properties likewise as warmth move execution. it will be seen that atom size may be a critical
1 1 1 1 1 1 1 1 1 1 1 1 1 1 1 1 1

physical parameter in nanofluids as a delayed consequence of it'll be accustomed tailor the

nanofluid warm properties besides as a result of the suspension quality of nanoparticles.
Researchers in nanofluids are making a push to use the specific properties of nano
particles to make stable what's more as phenomenally coordinating warmth move fluids.
Nano particles are the key structure squares of nanofluids; along these lines examination
on nanofluids got stimulated as a resultof the progression of nanotechnology normally and
availability of nanoparticles particularly. Appeared differently in relation to micrometer
estimated particles, nanoparticles have high degree to volume extent on account of the in
habitance of colossal number of particles on the limits, that develop them incredibly stable
in suspensions. Thusly, the Nano suspensions show high warm conductivity presumably
as a result of extended convection amid the solid particle and liquid surfaces. Since the
1 1 1 1 1 1 1 1 1 1 1 1 1

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properties essentially like the warm conductivity of the Nano evaluated materials are
1 1 1 1 1 1 1 1 1 1 1 1

regularly A solicitation of significance past those of the base fluids, nanofluids show
1 1 1 1 1 1 1 1 1 1 1 1 1

improvement in their convincing warm properties. as a result of the lower estimations, the
1 1

spread nanoparticles will carry on sort of a base fluid iota in an exceedingly suspension,
that makes US reduce issues like particle blocking, store, etc found with littler scale atom
suspensions. the mix of those two features; additional high security and high conductivity
of the spread 'Nano species' production them unimaginably supported for organizing
warmth move fluids. The consistent suspensions of little measures of nanoparticles can
evidently urge US to setup lighter, world class warm organization systems.

1.2.1 Properties of Nano liquids

Researchers in nanofluids have been endeavouring to use the uncommon properties of

nano particles to make unfaltering similarly as hugely coordinating warmth move fluids.
Thus, the nano suspensions show high warm conductivity evidently as a result of extended
convection between the solid particle and liquid surfaces. Since the properties essentially like
1 1 1 1 1 1 1 1 1 1 1 1

1 the warm conduction of the nano estimated material are generally solicitation of size higher
1 1 1 1 1 1 1 1 1 1 1 1 1 1

than those of the base fluids, so nano fluids improvement in their warm properties, because
1 1 1 1 1 1 1 1 1 1 1 1

of the Lower estimations, the spread nanoparticles will continue like as a base fluid iotas
in a very in a very suspension, that help USA to diminish issues like particle protect, store,
etc found with little atom suspensions.
The blend of those two features; further high security and high conductivity of the spread
'nano species' manufacture them appealing for organizing warmth move fluids. The
enduring suspensions of little measures of nanoparticles obviously urge USA to design
lighter can, unrivaled warm the board systems. Cooling is key for keeping up the
predefined execution and trustworthiness of an immense sort of present day things like
PCs, control electronic circuits, engines, high power lasers, X-shaft generators, etc. With the
1 1 1 1 1 1 1 1 1 1 1

phenomenal augmentation in warmth masses and warmth changes achieved by additional

1 1 1 1 1 1 1 1 1 1 1

power in downsized product, high tech undertakings like electronics, transportation,

1 1 1 1 1 1 1 1

manufacturing metrology and protect face cooling together of the top particular troubles. for
1 1 1 1 1 1 1 1 1 1 1 1 1

example, the industry has outfitted PCs with snappier speeds, humbler sizes and broadened
1 1 1 1

options, inciting reliably growing warmth masses, heat movements and restricted issue
territories at the chip and pack levels. Such warm issues in like manner are found in power

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regular perspective, optoelectronic devices, etc therefore the extended warmth move
characteristics of nanofluids could give the event of predominant, limited, cost effective
liquid cooling structures.
Like Conservative liquids, nanofluids have furthermore number of properties that
confirm its conduct like molecule estimate, molecule structure, material, warm
conductivity and so on and moreover the solidness of particles in base liquid, that
could be a noteworthy concern. The most reason that causes nanoparticles to shape
stable suspension is their high surface to volume proportion. As the warm
conductivity of nanoparticles is higher than that of base liquids so by and large warm
conduction of blend will increment. as a result of the appallingly modest
measurements, the nanoparticles scatter basically in base liquids and act kind of a
suspended base liquid atom, that decreases issues like molecule deterrent,
sedimentation, erosion and so on viscousness of nanofluids is furthermore A
noteworthy concern. On the off chance that convergence of nanoparticles in base
liquid will increment past bound breaking point (5%) at that point viscousness also
builds this utmost its presentation for explicit application. Molecule volume part.

1.2.2 Particle Volume Friction

Molecule volume division could be a parameter that has been examined in practically
the majority of the trial studies and a large portion of the outcomes are for the most
part in understanding subjectively. A large portion of the investigation reports
demonstrate an ascent in warm conductivity with an ascent in molecule volume
division and furthermore the connection found is, all in all, straight. There are a few
examinations in writing on the impact of molecule volume division on the warm
conductivity of nanofluids. Masuda et al. (1993) estimated the thermal conductivity of 1 1 1 1 1 1 1 1 1

water based for the most part nanofluids comprising of Al2O3 (13nm), SiO2 (12nm)
1 1 1 1 1 1 1 1 1 1 1 1 1

and TiO2 (27nm) nanoparticles, the numbers inside the bracket demonstrating the
1 1 1 1 1 1 1 1 1 1 1

normal distance across of the suspended nanoparticles. an upgrade up to 32.4% was

1 1 1 1 1 1 1 1 1 1 1 1 1

resolved inside the successful thermal conductivity of nanofluids for a volume portion
1 1 1 1 1 1 1 1 1 1 1 1

about 4.3% of Al2O3 nanoparticles.

1 1 1 1

Xing et al (2015) examinations the thermal conductivity of nanofluid by blending it with

three distinct sorts of CNT at 0.48% vol. division which results in 8.1%, 16.2% and 5%

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upgrade in warm conductivity for single walled nanotubes, since quite a while ago walled
nanotubes and multi walled nanotubes. Xiaoke (2015) examined the rheological conduct
of ethylene glycol (EG) with SiC nanoparticles of 1.0 % vol. in which they found 16.21%
improvement in thermal conductivity.

1.2.3 Nano fluid Thermal Conductivity

The Impact of nanoparticle depends on primarily on the idea of improved worth of

thermal conductivity. There are varied theoretical and practical models to elucidate
the increase with in thermal conductivity of nano fluids. However researchers are still
occurring to search out the most effective method to explain the enhanced value of
thermal conductivity. The improved value of thermal conductivity completely
depends upon the concentration of nanoparticles within the base fluid which shows
superior results over base fluid. Shape, size, surface area of these factors plays a
significant role within the improvement of thermal conductivity. Higher the surface
area more increased thermal conductivity also phenomenon like boiling and
convection are being studied by several researchers to search out the constant of heat
transfer so improvement may be created particle material.

1.2.4 Base Fluid

As demonstrated by the standard amazing medium theory (Maxwell, 1873), in light of

the way that the base fluid warm conductivity decreases, the ground-breaking warm
conductivity of a nanofluid will increase. Most of the test reports agree with the
theoretical characteristics given by this ordinary mean field model. As per Wang et
al's. (1999) results on the warm conductivity of suspensions of Al2O3 and CuO
nanoparticles in many base fluids like water, ethylene glycol, vacuum siphon oil and
engine oil, the best warm conductivity extent was found once ethylene glycol was
used as the base fluid. EG has comparatively low warm conductivity appeared
differently in relation to different base fluids. Engine oil showed somewhat lower
warm conductivity extents than ethanediol. Water and siphon oil showed a lot more
diminutive extents severally. Regardless, CuO/EG other than as CuO/water nanofluids
showed accurately same warm conductivity overhauls at undefined volume part of the
nanoparticles. The test concentrates assumed by Xie et al. (2002b) in addition

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maintained the characteristics given by the mean theory. Chopkar et al. (2008) denied
the higher than results subject to mean field theory enunciation by reportage higher
warm conductivity improvement for nanofluids with a base fluid of upper warm
conductivity. The speculative examination made by Hasselmann and Johnson (1987)
have exhibited that the incredible warm conductivity of fluid particle mixes were
practically self-governing of base fluid warm conductivity.

1.2.5 Particle Shape

For experimentation, circular moreover as cylindrical molded encircled nanoparticles are

ordinarily used for nanofluid amalgamation. The round and empty particles have greater
extent (length to separate crosswise over extent) than roundabout particles. The wide
assortments inside the segments of those particles do affect the redesign in fruitful warm
properties of nanofluids. Xie et al. (2002a) assessed the warm conductivity of water still as
EG basically based nanofluids including each cylinder formed similarly as round set
nanoparticles. It was discovered that in water essentially based nanofluids, the cylinder
formed suspensions had higher warm conductivity improvement of concerning 22.9% than
the round particles for a practically identical volume division (4.2%). in addition, the
theoretical characteristics fundamentally reliant on Hamilton-Crosser model (1962) are
seen to be in sensible simultaneousness with this generally higher improvement for round
and empty atom suspensions. Likewise those preliminary outcomes a general discernment
is that nano tube suspensions exhibit a prevalent improvement than the roundabout atom
suspension in view of brisk warmth proceed onward a more prominent partition through a
round and empty particle since it's a length of the solicitation of a micrometer. Regardless,
the cylinder molded particle suspension may need higher siphoning power because of its
overhauled viscousness (Timofeeva et al., 2009) that limits its use, possible application as
a glow move fluid.

1.2.6 Particle Size

The thermos physical properties of the nanofluid furthermore rely upon the molecule size
of nanoparticles. Warm conductivity and viscousness of nanofluids are the most properties
which change with the molecule estimate. Littler size particles have a great deal of spread

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thus causes a ton of contact with base liquid and in this way improved warmth move rate.
Bigger thesize of the nanoparticles a great deal of is that the viscousness. it's been
discovered that the successful thermal conductivity of a nano fluid will increment with
diminishing nanoparticle estimate. Anyway in some cases it's not valid, clashing outcomes
even have been accounted for.

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 CHAPTER- 2
LITERATURE REVIEW

Alsaas M.A. et al. (1997) investigated the performance of refrigerator by replacing the
refrigerant CFC 12 with the LPG refrigerant containing 24.4% propane, 56.4%
butaneand17.2% isobutene. The result shows that C.O.P. value reached to 3.4 and the
evaporator temperature reached to -15 0C with ambient condition 20 0C and condense
temperature 270C. Therefore use of propane/butane gives improvement in system overthe
use of CFC 12 refrigerant.

Hammad M.A. et al. (1998) investigated the performance of domestic refrigerator by

using four proportions of propane, butane and isobutane to find the optimal alternative
forR12 refrigerant. Different proportions of hydrocarbons are 75% propane 19.1%
butane5.9% iso butane, 50% propane 38.3% butane 11.7% isobutane and 25% propane
57.5%butane 17.5% 100% propane isobutane. The C.O.P. and cooling load were evaluated
by using these proportions and compared with R12. The result shows that propane
100%gives highest C.O.P. but 50% propane mixture is the best alternative to R12 on the
basis of COP.

Fatouh M. et al. (2006) has experimented on domestic refrigerator by replacing

R134awith the hydrocarbon refrigerant over a wide range of evaporator temperature (-35
to -100C) and condenser temperature (40 to 600C) with different proportions of propane
inpropane/ buane/isobutene mixture of refrigerant. The analysis shows that hydrocarbon
refrigerant with 60% propane mass proportion is most efficient and it improves the C.O.P.
over the use of R134a and also reduces pressure drop by 11.1% as compared toR134a.

Somchai Wongwises et al. (2005) tested the performance of auto-motive air

conditionersby replacing HFC-134a refrigerant with hydrocarbon refrigerant. They done
study onfourdifferent ratios of hydrocarbon mixtures and found out that the
mixturepropane/butane/isobutane (50%/40%/10%) is the most appropriate mixture to

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replaceHFC-134a and having best performance regarding C.O.P., the refrigeration
capacity andthe compressor power consumed.

Somchai Wongwises et al. (2004) works on the application of hydrocarbon refrigerant

inplace of HFC134a refrigerant in a domestic refrigerator. Hydrocarbons used are propane,
butane and isobutene. In this system they used energy consumption test (ECT) method in
which the temperature of the refrigerator compartment was noted down after every 1
minfor 24 hours then energy consumption is measured in KWh. They also measured
compressor work and recorded temperature and pressure at salient points. This procedure
was adopted with three different refrigerant mixtures i.e. three hydrocarbon mixtures, two
hydrocarbon mixtures and two hydrocarbon and HFC134a mixture. All experiments were
conducted at 250C ambient temperature. On investigating all three mixture refrigerant with
HFC134a refrigerant experimentally the results shows that there is 0.69% reduction in
energy consumption as compared to HFC134a and results also shows that propane60%
and butane 40% mixture is the best alternative of HFC134a.

D. Sendil Kumar &Dr. R. Elansezhian (2012) researched on Nano-refrigerant. Nano

Al2O3-PAG oil was utilized as Nano-refrigerant in R134a in VCR framework and
expanded COP upto 3.5.

M.Abuzar Qureshi(2012)The point of this venture is to similarly dissect of COP utilizing

R134a and R600a Refrigerant in Local cooler at relentless state condition. In this test
examine Coefficient of execution of R600a was higher scope of 40.86%-46.54% than
R134a.

PRAVESH KUMAR KUSHWAHA (2016) examinations concerning the presentation of

Nano-refrigerant (R134a + Al2O3) based refrigeration framework. An improvement in
COP was additionally seen during the examinations (1.17% – 9.14%) and decrease in
power utilization (4.35% and 14.7%).

A.Senthilkumar& R. Praveen (2015) In this paper, CuO - R600a were utilized as a

working liquid of household iceboxes. The outcomes showed that CuO - R600a can work
ordinarily and effectively in fridge. Joined with fridge utilizing unadulterated R600a as

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working liquids. 0.1 and 0.5g/L centralizations of CuO - R600a can spare 11.83% and
17.88% vitality utilization individually and the solidifying speed of CuO - R600a was
more rapidly than the unadulterated R600a framework.

N Austin (2016) in this paper centers around the exhibition examination and investigation
of refrigerants utilized in residential pressure refrigeration frameworks in the premises of
enduring state.R134a and R600a are the two refrigerants considered for correlation. R600a
execution coefficient was observed to be in the higher range contrasted with R134a. It was
practically 42.88%-47.56% superior to R134a at a steady refrigerant impact of 48W and at
a consistent vanishing temperature.

M.S.Bandgar(2016) The point of this work is to assess the presentation of Vapor Pressure
Refrigeration Framework utilizing SiO2nano particles blended with Polyolester (POE)
oil/Mineral oil (MO) as Nano grease and R-600a as a refrigerant. The consequence of this
paper is the power utilization lessens by 12.02% when POE oil is supplanted by a blend of
(MO+ 0.5% Silica). It has been seen that C.O.P. is expanded by 11.66% when POE is
supplanted by a Nano grease (mineral oil + 0.5% of SiO2).

Balwant Kumar Singh(2017) In the present work, a trial study is made on the exhibition
of refrigeration framework dependent on (R600a|R290) Nano refrigerant. Here cupric
oxide (CuO) nanoparticles of size (20-30) nm has been taken. There is improvement in
COP of the framework by 3.18%to 11.57 % because of utilization of Nano refrigerant.It
was seen that vitality utilization diminishes by 13.5% to 19.7% by utilizing Nano
refrigerant of various focus thought about.

J.Melvin Jones(2017) In this paper we pick the nano refrigerant as Tio2, CuO, CNT,
Al2O3and R600a, R134a, R141b are utilized as a base refrigerants. This paper gives nano
refrigerants gave great outcomes, demonstrating the temperature contrast is better, when
contrasted with the blended refrigerants. The coefficient of execution is one of the
significant parameter for a refrigerant to acquire great cooling impact.

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Dr.K.Dilip Kumar (2016)In this work, the Al2O3 nano-oil is proposed as a promising
grease to upgrade the presentation of vapor pressure cooler .The outcome demonstrates the
COP of framework were improved by 19.14%

A.Senthilkumar (2015) In this paper we report a strategy that utilizations petroleum gas
to improve the vitality productivity of refrigeration countering technique utilizing CuO -
R600a as exchange refrigerants. The outcomes demonstrate that the blend of R600a with
Nano particles (CuO) works typically in the local fridge. The cooling limit of the
residential fridge is expanded by 10 - 20% by utilizing Nano – refrigerant.

Barathiraja.K, Allen Jeffrey.J (2017) This examination thermodynamically

investigations a vapor pressure refrigeration framework which analyses R134a and
R290/R600a refrigerants. In this paper, the trial examination of R134a and different
proportions of R290/R600a refrigerants have been analysed. The Power utilization of the
Hydrocarbon refrigerant R290/R600a has been diminished when contrasted with the
R134a.The coefficient of execution has increments while time increments because of
suction of high weight and temperature increments.

Kumar R.R et al. (2013) examined the impact of Al2O3 put together nano-grease with
respect to the COP of the framework and solidifying limit of the framework. In the trial
setup R12,R22, R600,R600a and R134a were utilized as a refrigerant. The presentation of
the system depends upon the thermo-physical properties of the refrigerant in this way the
expansion of nanoparticles to the refrigerant outcomes in progress in the thermo-physical
properties. Although improving the exhibition of the refrigeration framework. The
experimental studies demonstrate that the refrigeration framework with nanorefrigerant
works ordinarily and efficiently in same working condition. The COP of the framework
increments by 19.6 % and itwas found that there is an expansion in solidifying limit and
decrease in power consumption by 11.5 % when contrasted with polyester.

Jwo C.S et al. (2009) had utilized mineral grease with Al2O3 nanoparticles to improve
the oil and warmth move execution. This examination demonstrated that R134a + 0.1 wt
%Al2O3 nano particles were ideal for best execution and results in diminished power
consumption by about 2.4%. COP was expanded by 4.4%.

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Hafez E.A et al. (2011) used CuO-R134a in the vapor compression system and
evaporating heat transfer coefficient was experimentally investigated. Measurements were
taken for heat flux ranged from 10 to 40 kW/m2, using CuO nanoparticles of size 15to 70
nm with different concentrations (0, 0.1, 0.2, 0.3, 0.4, 0.5, 0.55, 0.6, 0.8 and 1%).There is
upto 0.55% increase in heat transfer coefficient in the investigated concentration range and
then decreases for remaining values of heat flux. Moreover the heat transfer coefficient
increases up to particle size of 25mm then it decreases with the increase in particle size.

Mahbubul I.M. et al. (2013) studied the volumetric effects on thermal conductivity,
density and viscosity of nanorefrigerant Al2O3-R141b. The experiments were done for
different temperature ranges. The experimental results show that thermal conductivity
increases with the volume concentrations and temperature. The viscosity and density also
increases with the volume concentration but decrease with the increase in temperature.
Therefore an optimal volume concentration can enhance the performance of the system.

Tashtoush B et al. (2001) studied the replacement of R12 with the mixture refrigerant of
propane/butane/R134a in domestic refrigerator. The tests were performed in a range of
evaporator duty from 100W to 350W. The refrigerator with this mixed refrigerant can
work normally and efficiently without any change in mineral oil and condenser. The study
shows that COP of mixed refrigerant at 100W evaporator duty is 5.4% less and0.8% less
at 350W evaporator duty. But the volumetric efficiency of mixed refrigerant is better than
R12 and mixed refrigerant also improves the lubricity and miscibility of lubricating oil.

Mohanraj M. (2013) investigated the energy performance of domestic refrigerator by

replacing R134a refrigerant with the R430a. The investigations were done for three
different condensing temperature 40, 50 and 600C, the evaporator temperature also ranges
from -300C to 00C. They found out that COP of the refrigerator with R430a is higher
thanR134a by 2.6%, 4.3% and 7.5% at condensing temperatures of 40, 50 and 600C. The
energy consumption was also reduced by 1–7.7%, 1.2–8.2%, and 2.5–9.8% at
condensation temperatures 40, 50 and 600C. However it is also found out that discharge
temperature of compressor is slightly more with R430a refrigerant which affects
compressor life.

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 CHAPTER-3
GAP IN STUDY& OBJECTIVES

Literature review shows that a lot of analysis work is being reported on the
nanofluid’s thermal conductivity, its properties, impact of particle volume fraction,
particle material, base fluid, particle size, particle form etc. additionally work has
been done on refrigeration and air conditioning using hydro fluorocarbon refrigerant
like R134a, R12, R22 etc. with nanoparticle. Use of nanoparticles with HC refrigerant
is additionally and risng field whenever lot of investigation needed.

3.1 Gap in study

Following are the points that helped to me required my thesis work on nano refrigerant
based refrigeration system are as under:
i. A restricted work has been reported on use of HC refrigerant inn vapour
compression refrigeration system.
ii. The impact of hydrocarbon refrigerant on atmosphere.
iii. There are various HC refrigerants which might replace hydro fluorocarbon
refrigerants.
iv. Use of HC refrigerant in same refrigeration system with none a lot
of modificationsystem victimization hydrofluorocarbon refrigerant.
v. A restricted work has been reported on use of HC refrigerant with
nanoparticles.
vi. Through the hydrocarbon based mostly nano refrigerant power consumption
and performance of system are the key factor of research.

3.2 Study objective

After an intensive literature survey it’s been determined to investigate the performance of
CuO based mostly nano refrigerant within the vapor compression cycle. Following are the
parameters that are set as thesis’s objectives taken for investigation.
i. COP of refrigeration system
ii. Power consumption

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iii. Impact of volumetric concentration of nanoparticles
iv. Time needed to achieving a desired temperature freezing capability of the system
v. Temperature drop across the condenser, temperature gain across the evaporator
vi. Pressure drop across the condenser & evaporator
vii. Effect of mixed nanoparticle

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 CHAPTER-4
EXPERIMENTAL SETUP AND METHODOLOGY

4.1 Experimental Setup

In this system, the description of component and their working for experimentation
provided in this section. The charging and evacuation of Nanoparticles also discussed
there.

Fig 4.1: Experimental setup

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In above figure the experimental setup of pure hydrocarbon refrigerant along with
nanoparticle is performed in vapour compression refrigeration system.

4.2 Setup of Components

S.NO. COMPONENTS QTY. SPECIFICATION

1. Compressor 1 165 litre

2. Expansion Device 1 Manual

3. Condenser 1 Finned type

4. Evaporator 1 Coiled Type

5. Filter/Dryer 1 Without Silica Gel

6. Pressure Gauge 2 R290 low and high

pressure
7. Heating Element 1 230 W

8. Rotameter 1 2-40 LPH

9. Refrigerant 170gm Pure Hydrocarbon

10. Voltmeter 1 0-300 volt

11. Amp meter 1 0-15 Amp.

12. Energy meter 2

13. Digital Temperature Controller 1

14. Hand Shut Valve 2 For ¼ inch pipe

15. Temperature Gauge 4 Mercury glass

thermometer
(-10 0C – 110 0C)
16. Flexible Charging Line 1

17. Vacuum Pump 1

Fig 4.1 Component of setup

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4.2.1 Refrigeration Compressor

Compressor is an integral and vital a part of any refrigeration system. Its main
function is to raise the pressure and temperature of the refrigerant across the pipes by
given some pumping power. There are differing types of compressors
like; reciprocating compressors, rotary screw compressors, centrifugal compressors,
scroll compressors and hermetically sealed compressor that are usually employed
in refrigeration systems depending upon the necessities. In this setup hermetically
sealed compressor of 165L capability has been used.Usually in hermetic and in the
main semi-hermetic compressors the compressor and motor driving the
compressor are integral a part of compressor, and run within the refrigerant system.

Fig 4.2: Compressor of experimental Setup

18 | P a g e
 Compressor Specification
Manufacture Emerson
Model KCE444HAG-V334H
Voltage Range 220-230 V
Motor Input 120 Watts
Net weight 7 kg

Fig 4.2: Compressor Specifications

4.2.2 Refrigerant Flow Device

An expansion valve is a part in vapour compression refrigeration system that controls the
amount of refrigerant flow into the evaporator. It maintains the specified pressure &
temperature within the evaporator. There are differing kind of expansion device which are
normally used. They’re as follows:
i. Capillary tube
ii. Automatic expansion valve
iii. Thermostatic expansion valve
iv. Manual expansion valve

In this setup flow control device used is hand operated manual expansion valve to
regulate the refrigerant. The valve needle remains open throughout steady state
operation. The size of the opening or the position of the needle is said to the pressure and
temperature of the evaporator wherever smaller is that the opening lower is that
the pressure and temperature after expansion device.

Fig 4.3: Expansion Device

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4.2.3 Condenser

A condenser may be a device used to condense a fluid from its vaporized state to its
liquid state. In vapor compression refrigeration system condenser is employed to
condense refrigerant from vapor phase into liquid phase. It rejects heat to
the atmosphere and its inlet is outlet of the compressor from that high temperature and
pressure refrigerant enters. It rejects heat to the atmosphere through the surface that is
either air cooled or water cooled. The heat rejection capability of a condenser
depends primarily on following factors:
i. The temperature distinction between the refrigerant and the cooling media.
ii. The rate of flow of the cooling media through the condenser.
iii. The rate of flow of the refrigerant through the condenser.

Types of condenser:
i. Finned static condenser
ii. Finned forced convection condenser
iii. Wire static condenser
iv. Plate static condenser

In this system finned-static condenser has been used.

Fig 4.4: Condenser

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4.2.4 Evaporator/ Chiller

The liquid refrigerant enters the evaporator from the refrigerant flow control device is
under low pressure and low temperature. Evaporator makes contact with the water and
the medium from that heat must be removed. Here liquid refrigerant changes phase to
vapor phase.
In this set up emersion coil kind evaporator is employed. Evaporator is dipped in 10.5
litre of water. Water is stirred with facilitate of the troublemaker to confirm uniform
heat transfer. The heat exchange rate inside an evaporator is influenced by these
factors:

i. The temperature distinction between the refrigerant and therefore the water
being cooled.
ii. The rate of the water through the evaporator.
iii. The rate of refrigerant through the evaporator.

Fig4.5: Evaporator

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4.2.5 Filter/ Dryer

Impurities present within the vapour compression refrigeration system will harm
number of component of the system like compressor and expansion device will
damage because of impurities. To hinder any impurity present within the system and
to avoid any quite choking filter has been employed in experimental setup at
condenser outlet. Mesh size of filter varies from (5-5000) micrometers.
Nanoparticles will go through this filter easily.

Fig4.6: Filter/ Dryer

4.2.6 Heating element

A heating element is an element that converts electricity into heat through theprocess
of electric resistance or Joule heating. Refrigerant takes the heat from the
water present in evaporator that is value-added by heating element to the water at
constant rate in evaporator .It is used to add heating load or to maintain the
specified flux or temperature within the evaporator. During this setup metal heating
element is employed.

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4.2.7 Refrigerant

Refrigerant plays a very important role within the VCR system. Its properties
decide the look of the system. In this experimental setup R290 hydrocarbon
refrigerant has been used. Hydrocarbon refrigerant be a mixture of gas and gas during
which 500th is gas and with physical properties similar to refrigerant R134a however
with Zero ODP and negligible GWP.

Fig4.7: Refrigerant

Refrigerant Specification
Name Hydrocarbon Refrigerant
Weight 170gm
O.D.P. Zero
G.W.P. Negligible
Gas Content R290
Charged mass 60gm

Table4.3 Refrigerant specifications

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4.2.8 Pressure Gauge

It is used to measure pressure of the HC Refrigerant at several points. Four pressure

gauges are employed in that one gauge is at compressor inlet, and alternative at outlet,
one gauge when expansion device and alternative after evaporator outlet. Bourdon
tube type refrigeration pressure gauge are used to measure the pressure.
The bourdon pressure gauge works on the principle that a planate tube tends to
straighten or regain its original Form in cross sectional once controlled. During this
originated two kind of pressure gauge are used high- & low-pressure gauge.

Fig 4.8: Pressure Gauge

4.2.9Voltmeter

A voltmeter is a device, which are used to calculate electric potential between two
points in an electrical circuit. Analog voltmeters move a pointer across a scale in
proportion to the voltage of the circuit whereas digital voltmeter shows the voltaged
digitally. It attract only a least amount of current to work.

4.2.10Ammeter
An ammeter is a device which are used to measure the electrical current in an
electrical circuit. Electrical current are measured in amperes. During this set up digital
meter has been used.

24 | P a g e
 Fig 4.9Ammeter
4.2.11 Energy meter
An energy meter is a device which is used to measure the quantity of electrical energy
consumed by an electrically high powered machine. There are two energy meter
employed in the system in which one is employed to measure the power consumped
by compressor and different to measure the power consumed by the heater. The unit
to measure energy is Kw-hr. the energy input for each the device is employed to
calculate the coefficient of performance of the system.

Fig 4.10 Energy meter

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4.2.12 Hand Shut off Valve

A valve is a device, which are used to controls, directs or controls the flow of a fluid
by opening, closing or partly blocking varied passages. Hand shut off valves are used
to control the flow within the line. it's also used to divert the flow towards rotameter.
of this kind are employed in that one valve is fitted at charging line inlet, two valves
are used at every end of rotameter. If there's need to bypass the flow then parallel
valve to the rotameter is opened.

Fig 4.11 Hand Shut off Valve

4.2.13 Temperature Gauge

Mercury glass thermometers are used to measure temperature at relative points. The
thermometers are fitted at evaporator inlet and outlet, before expansion valve and
condenser inlet. These temperature values are used to calculate temperature gain in
evaporator and temperature drop in condenser. One is also installed to
measure ambient temperature.

4.2.14 Digital Temperature Controller

Temperature controller is a device used to measure variation in temperature

of area andcan be adjusted to attain a desired temperature. Digital temperature
controller is employed to cut off the heater provided once the temperature exceed a
specific set value within the evaporator. it's connected to a Relay device that is
connected to heating element in which it sends signal to the relay switch that cuts

26 | P a g e
off the availability also as on the supply of the heating element. there's a sensing
element that continuously dipped within the water in evaporator. With the
assistance of digital temperature controller constant heat flux in the
evaporator is maintained.

Fig 4.12. Digital Temperature Controller

4.2.15 Flexible Charging Line

Flexible line is employed to charge the refrigerant into the system through compressor
charging line. Line is connected to the gas cylinder so connected to the valve from
where refrigerant goes within the vapor compression system.

Fig 4.13 Flexible Charging line

27 | P a g e
4.2.16 Vacuum Pump

Vacuum compressor is a mechanical device similar to the compressor employed in the

vapor compression refrigeration system. It is used to check for any outflow and is
additionally used to do charging of the system with the air. also before charging
refrigerant the vacuum is produced within the system to remove wetness or any air.

Fig 4.14 VacuumPump

4.2.17 Nanoparticle

For higher performance it's necessary to see the appropriate nanoparticles which may
easily suspends into nanofluid. Nanoparticle from and size are different factor that are
necessary for investigation purpose. During this experiment setup CuO nanoparticle
of size 20 to 30 nm is employed.

28 | P a g e
4.3 Methodology
In this experiment, the performance of the pure HC refrigerant is compared with the
nanorefrigerant with in which totally different concentrations of CuO nano particle
are mixed with HC refrigerant in vapour compression refrigeration system. The
temperature of the refrigerant at inlet and outlet of each element of the system ought
to be measured with thermometer. Similarly, pressure measurements are taken across
every component of the system with the pressure gauge fitted at the inlet and out let of
the compressor and evaporator.These measurements are necessary to evaluate the
performance of the system. The readings of meter and energy meter even be taken to
find the power consumption and energy consumption of the system. First of all, the
performance is investigated with the pure hydrocarbon refrigerant. Then weighted
CuO nanoparticles are injected into the system and performance is evaluated. The key
parameter that varied throughout experiment is that the concentration of the
nanoparticle within the system.

4.3.1 Test Procedure

The setup is placed in an exceedingly constant temperature with correct insulation.

The fluctuation in close temperature and space air rate in space is found to be and0.1
m/s. Evaporator of the system is swaybacked in ten.5 litre water and maintained at
constant temperatures (25-26 0C) and (35-36 0C). All readings were taken at constant
volume flow rate i.e. 3.4 LPH. first of all knowledge is collected for pure hydrocarbon
refrigerant so nano particle are unit introduced having 3 totally different weight
0.20gm, 0.30gm, 0.40gm. the charged mass of the gas is 60gm. Experiments
were dispensed with 20-30 nm nanoparticles size. Tests area unit performed to
review C.O.P., power consumption, time taken for temperature drop from 40 oC to 25
o
C, temperature drop by condenser, temperature gain in evaporator and
temperature the least bit salient points. The temperature at water and outlet of
each element of the system is measured with the mercury-in-glass thermometer that
was already label with normal fluid. Firstly the system is exhausted to get rid of wet,
as if wet mix refrigerant could have an effect on thermo physical properties. W hat is
more it produces extremely corrosive compound that turn out erosion and injury to
valve and mechanical devive cylinder wall?

29 | P a g e
It additionally causes choking of growth that results in improper growth of
flow. so, to get rid of the wet, system is exhausted with the assistance of external air
compressor. once evacuation system is charged with organic compound refrigerant
(60 gm) through charging line. currently the system is switched on and allowed to
succeed in into steady state that was found to be achieved once 1:30 hrs. Once steady
state temperature and pressure readings at mechanical device water and outlet,
condenser outlet and once growth were taken inside interval of quarter-hour.
The close temperature is additionally noted down in this interval. At the
beginning and at the top of the experiment readings for energy meters and
heater ought to are be taken. Same procedure is adopted for nano refrigerant
Hydrocarbon+ CuO (20-30 nm) for zero.20gm, 0.30gm and 0.40gm mass of CuO.
Data is collected to seek out C.O.P. temperature drop by condenser, temperature gain
in evaporator and time taken to attain temperature drop from 400C to 250C
and thence during this approach performance of the system is evaluated.

4.3.2 Charging of nanoparticles

After removing air from the system measured amount of CuO nanoparticles is injected
into it. The nanoparticles area unit placed in charging line, before gap the charging
valve the line is purged to get rid of any additional air within the charging
line. Currently the organic compound ia formed to charge the system through the
charging line that carries the nanoparticles through it. Therefore, with this system the
system is charged with nanoparticle and that have nano refrigerant as operating
medium rather than pure hydrocarbon.

4.3.3 Calculations

Work done by the compressor, W = No. of energy meter revolution x 3600 x ηm x ηc

/ Time taken for no.of EM rev x C (EM Constant) in KW

Refrigeration effect = Mw X Cp X Δt / Time taken for drop in initial to final

Temperature in KW

30 | P a g e
Where,
Mw = Mass of water in chiller
Cp = Specific heat of water (4.1868 KJ/Kg oC)
ΔT = Drop in water temperature ( initial and final temperature and time taken to drop)
So, C.O.P. = Refrigeration Effect / Work done by compressor

After conducting experiments with pure R290 HC refrigerant, nano refrigerant

with completely different concentration of CuO in R290 refrigerant, readings have
been taken for pressure, temperature, energy consumption at 3.4 LPH rate of flow at
two kinds of fluxes equipped to the evaporator at completely different temperature.
Graphs are drawn under steady state for COP of refrigeration system,
temperature drop in condenser, temperature gain in evaporator and time taken for drop
in temperature from40 oC to 25 oC. All the parameters are summarized within the table
below.

Evaporator Temperature load at (25-26 0C)

Refrigerant
C.O. P1 P2 P3 P4 T1 T2 T3 T4 Tatm
0 0 0
P. (kg/ (kg/ (kg/ (kg/ ( C) ( C) ( C) (0C)

cm2) cm2) cm2) cm2)

Pure R290 1.13 19.30 248.46 239 26.29 26.52 73.9 48.7 -0.7 29.1

R290
+ 1.19 20.10 258 246 25.76 27.1 77.3 49.7 -1.1 30.22
0.20gm CuO
R290
+ 1.25 19.76 255 242 25.28 26.5 76.50 48.2 -1.8 29.95
0.30gm CuO

R290
+ 1.29 19.52 252 238 24.8 26.40 75 45.90 -2.60 29.50
0.40gm CuO

Table 5.1: C.O.P. pressure and temperature for R290 refrigerant and Nano
refrigerants at heat flux 25-26 0C

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 Evaporator Temperature load at (35-36 0C)
Refrigerant
C.O. P1 P2 P3 P4 T1 T2 T3 T4 Tatm
P (kg/ (kg/ (kg/ (kg/ (0C) (0C) (0C) (0C)
. cm2) cm2) cm2) cm2)

Pure R290 1.9 20.38 244.76 234.15 26.69 34.19 81.96 49.15 -1 28.27

R290 1.97 20.38 256.92 246.92 26.38 34 84.65 47.8 -1.25 29.69
+
0.20gm CuO

R290 2.13 20.69 258.62 248.3 27.29 34.55 85.48 47.56 -2.12 30
+
0.30gm CuO

R290 2.3 21 260.32 249.68 28.2 35.1 86.32 47.32 -3 30.31

+
0.40gm CuO

Table 5.2- C.O.P. pressure and temperature of pure R290and Nano refrigerant at
heat flux 35-36 0C.

32 | P a g e
 CHAPTER-5

RESULT AND DISCUSSION

5.1 Temperature drop in condenser

The condenser contains coils of pipes during which the high pressure and temperature
vapor refrigerant is condensed and cooled at constant pressure. Temperature drop is
that the distinction between the temperature of refrigerant at inlet of condenser and a t
outlet of condenser. Higher the temperature drop by the condenser more is that the
heat rejected to the surrounding and betters the refrigeration impact. The heat is initial
transferred to the wall of the condenser tubes then to the cooing medium. during
this experimental test-rig the cooling medium is close air and also the mode of
heat transfer is natural convection. Sometimes, when condensation method refrigerant
is cooled below saturation temperature before expansion, such method is
termed subcooling of the refrigerant. The ensuing impact of subcooling is to
extend the worth of coefficient of performance. In following study temperature drop
for refrigerant across the condenser has been studied

30
Temperature Drop in Condenser oC

29
28
27
26
25
24
23
Pure Hydrocarbon Hydrocarbon+ 0.20gm Hydrocarbon+ 0.30gm Hydrocarbon+ 0.40gm
CuO CuO CuO

Pure Hydrocarbon Hydrocarbon+ 0.20gm CuO

Hydrocarbon+ 0.30gm CuO Hydrocarbon+ 0.40gm CuO

Fig. 5.1: Temperature drop in condenser for nano refrigerant at evaporator heat flux
25-26 0C

33 | P a g e
Fig.5.1 shows a temperature drop in condenser for 3.4 LPH volume flow rate of
nanorefrigerant when a constant evaporator heat load is maintained at 25-26 oC and at
ambient temperature of 30 oC ±2 oC. For R290 HC refrigerant temperature reduction in
condenser is 25.2 oC, whereas with nano refrigerant R290+0.20gm CuO, R290+0.30gm
CuO and R290+0.40gm CuO temperature drop found to be 27.6oC, 28.3oC and 29.1oC
respectively. Therefore, a 9.52% more temperature drop with refrigerant R290+0.20gm
CuO and 12.3% more temperature drop with refrigerant R290+0.30gm CuO and 15.47%
more temperature drop with refrigerant R290+0.40gm CuO, has been observed compared
to temperature drop in case of pure R290 refrigerant and hence more improvement as
compared to pure R290 refrigerant.

40
Temperature drop in Condenser oC

39
38
37
36
35
34
33
32
31
30
29
Pure Hydrocarbon hydrocarbon + 0.20gm hydrocarbon + 0.30gm hydrocarbon + 0.40gm
CuO CuO CuO

Pure Hydrocarbon hydrocarbon + 0.20gm CuO

hydrocarbon + 0.30gm CuO hydrocarbon + 0.40gm CuO

Fig. 5.2: Temperature drop in condenser for Nano refrigerant at evaporator heat
flux 35-36 0C

Same trend has been observed with 35-36 0C evaporator heat load and at ambient
temperature of 30oC±2oC. For R290 HC refrigerant temperature reduction in condenser
temperature is 32.81oC, whereas with refrigerant R290+ 0.20gm CuO, R290+0.30gm CuO
and R290+0.40gm CuO temperature drop is 36.85 oC, 37.92 oC and 39 oC respectively.
Fig. 5.2 Shows a 12.36% more temperature drop with refrigerant R290+0.20gm CuO and

34 | P a g e
15.36% increase in temperature drop with refrigerant R290+0.30gm CuO and 18.86%
more temperature drop with refrigerant R290+0.40gm CuO as compared to pure
hydrocarbon refrigerant.
Therefore, it is shows that there is more temperature drop in condenser in case of
nanorefrigerant used in refrigeration system i.e. improved heat transfer by rejecting more
heat in condenser which enhances the refrigeration in the system. Investigating of CuO
based refrigerant shows more heat transfer as compared to pure refrigerant at all
concentrations. This is due to the higher thermal conductivity of CuO. So, it is concluded
that the effects of above mentioned nanorefrigerant is to increase the heat rejection in
condenser in the refrigeration system.

5.2 TEMPERATURE GAIN IN EVAPORATOR

After expansion, low pressure and temperature liquid-vapour mixture enters into the
evaporator, wherever it evaporates at constant pressure and temperature. In
evaporation process refrigerant absorbs its heat of vaporization from the medium to be
cooled as water during this experiment. Temperature gain in evaporator is that
the distinction of evaporator outlet temperature and inlet temperature. Higher the
gain within the evaporator temperature higher is that the heat carried by the
refrigerant therefore higher is that the performance of evaporator.

29.5
Temperature Gain in

29
evaporator oC

28.5
28
27.5
27
26.5
26
Pure Hydrocarbon Hydrocarbon+ 0.20gm Hydrocarbon+ 0.30gm Hydrocarbon+ 0.40gm
R290 CuO CuO CuO

Pure Hydrocarbon R290 Hydrocarbon+ 0.20gm CuO

Hydrocarbon+ 0.30gm CuO Hydrocarbon+ 0.40gm CuO

Fig 5.3: Temperature gain in evaporator for Nano refrigerants at heat flux25-26 0C

35 | P a g e
Fig.3.3 shows temperature gain in evaporator for 3.4 LPH volume flow rate of the
refrigerant where evaporator is maintained at constant heat load at 25-26 oC & at ambient
temperature of 30oC±2oC. For pure R290 hydrocarbon refrigerant temperature gain in
evaporator is 27.22oC, whereas with refrigerant R290+0.20gm CuO, hydrocarbon+0.30gm
CuO and R290+0.40gm CuO the temperature gain is 28.2oC, 28.3oC and 29oC
respectively. So a 3.60% more gain in temperature with refrigerant R290+0.20gmCuO,
3.96% more gain in temperature with refrigerant R290+0.30gmCuO and 6.53% more gain
in temperature with refrigerantR290+0.40gm CuO in evaporator has been observed
compared to temperature gain for a pure R290 refrigerant.

38.5
TEMPERATURE GAIN IN EVAPORATOR OC

38
37.5
37
36.5
36
35.5 Pure Hydrocarbon R290
35
Hydrocarbon+0.20gm CuO
34.5
Hydrocarbon+0.30gm CuO
34
33.5 Hydrocarbon+0.40gm CuO

Fig 5.4: Temperature gain in evaporator for Nano refrigerantsat heat flux 35-36 0C

Similarly it has been observed when evaporator heat flux is maintained at 35-36 0C.
Fig.3.4 shows temperature gain in evaporator for 3.4 LPH volume flow rate of the
refrigerant where evaporator is maintained at constant heat load at 35-36oC& at ambient
temperature of 30oC±2oC. For pure R290 hydrocarbon refrigerant temperature gain in
evaporator is 35.1 0C, whereas with refrigerant R290+0.20gm CuO, R290+0.30gm CuO
and R290+0.40gm CuO the temperature gain is 35.25oC, 37.6 oC and 38.1 oC respectively.
So 0.42% more gain in temperature with refrigerant R290+0.20gm CuO, 4.47% more gain

36 | P a g e
in temperature with refrigerant R290+0.30gm CuO and 8.54% more gain in temperature
with refrigerant R290+0.40gm CuOin evaporator has been observed compared to
temperature gain for a pure hydrocarbon refrigerant.
Therefore, from above it is concluded that use of nanorefrigerant enhance the heat transfer
rate and hence improve the temperature gain in evaporator.

5.3 COEFFICIENT OF PERFORMANCE (C.O.P.)

Coefficient of performance is defined as the ratio of refrigeration effect produced to the

work done on the system. It may be state that Coefficient of performance is the ratio of
power required by heater submerged in water to the power consumed by the compressor.

COP = Refrigeration effect / Work Done

C.O.P. is highly influenced by the operating conditions, mainly ambient temperature and
source and sink temperatures of the system. Here in his experimental setup actual COP
ofthe system has been investigated. In present study, C.O.P. of pure R290 refrigerant and
nano refrigerant of the system has been studied. First readings are taken for pure R290
refrigerant at volume flow rate 3.4 LPH and at heat flux 25-26 0C at ambient temperature
300C±20Cand then readings are taken for nano refrigerants R290+0.20gm CuO,
R290+0.30gm CuOand R290+0.40gm CuO. Similarly, readings are taken at heat flux 35-
36 oC at same flow rate. Hence performance will be evaluated.

1.35
1.3
1.25
COP

1.2
1.15
1.1
1.05
1
Pure Hydrocarbon Hydrocarbon + Hydrocarbon + Hydrocarbon +
R290 0.20gm CuO 0.30gm CuO 0.40gm CuO

Pure Hydrocarbon R290 Hydrocarbon + 0.20gm CuO

Hydrocarbon + 0.30gm CuO Hydrocarbon + 0.40gm CuO

Fig 5.5: C.O.P. comparison for Nano refrigerants at heatflux at 25-26 0C

37 | P a g e
Fig 5.5 shows that C.O.P. of pure R290 HC refrigerant is found to be1.13 whereas C.O.P.
of nano refrigerants R290+0.20gm CuO,R290+0.30gmCuO and R290+0.40gm CuO is
found to be 1.19, 1.25 and 1.29. So there is a 5.3% improvement in C.O.P. for refrigerant
R290+0.20gmCuO, 10.61% improvement in C.O.P. for refrigerant R290+0.30gm CuO
and14.15% improvement in C.O.P. for refrigerant R290+0.40gm CuO as compared to
pure R290 refrigerant.
2.5

1.5
COP

0.5

0
Pure Hydrocarbon R290 Hydrocarbon + 0.20gm Hydrocarbon + 0.30gm Hydrocarbon + 0.40gm
CuO CuO CuO

Pure Hydrocarbon R290 Hydrocarbon + 0.20gm CuO

Hydrocarbon + 0.30gm CuO Hydrocarbon + 0.40gm CuO

Fig 5.6: C.O.P. comparison for Nano refrigerants heat flux at 35-36 0C

Same study has been performed at 3.4 LPH volume flow rate and at heat flux 35-36oCand
ambient temperature 30oC±2oC. As shown in fig. 5.6, the C.O.P. of the pureR290 HC is
1.9 whereas C.O.P. of nanorefrigerants R290+0.20gmCuO, R290+0.30gmCuO and
R290+0.40gm CuO is found to be 1.97, 2.13 and 2.30 respectively. So there is 3.6842%
improvement in C.O.P. for refrigerant R290+0.20gmCuO, 12.10% improvement in C.O.P.
for refrigerant R290+0.30gm CuO and 21.05% improvement in C.O.P. for refrigerant
R290+0.40gmCuO as compared to pure R290 hydrocarbon refrigerant. Hence there is
increase in C.O.P. of the system with the use of nanoparticles.

38 | P a g e
5.4 Power consumption for temperature-time analysis

Since power consumption is main concerned for a system to evaluate the C.O.P. of
system. In this system power consumed by compressor to drop temperature from 40 oC to
25oC has been observed for pure R290 hydrocarbon refrigerant, R290+0.20gm CuO,
R290+0.30gm CuO and R290+0.40gm CuO nano refrigerant.

0.16

0.14

0.12

0.1

0.08

0.06 Pure Hydrocarbon R290

0.04 Hydrocarbon+0.20gm CuO

0.02 Hydrocarbon+0.30gm CuO

0 Hydrocarbon+0.40gm CuO

Fig 5.7: Power consumption by pure R290 HC refrigerant and Nano refrigerants for
temperature drop from 400C to 250C

Fig 5.7 shows power consumption for 40oC to 25oC temperature drop at 3.4 LPH volume
flow rate with ambient condition 30oC±2oC In this it is found that pure R290 hydrocarbon
consumes 0.145KWh power to drop in temperature from 40oC to 25oC whereas
R290+0.20gm CuO Nano refrigerant consumes 0.130 KWh power, R290+0.30gm CuO
Nanorefrigerant consumes 0.120 KWh power and R290+0.40gm CuO Nano refrigerant
consumes 0.110 KWh power. So there is 11.5% reduction in power consumption by
R290+0.20gm CuO Nano refrigerant as compared to pure R290 hydrocarbon refrigerant.
Reduction in power consumption for R290+0.30gm CuO and R290+0.40gm CuO Nano

39 | P a g e
refrigerant is found to be 20.8% and 31.8%. it has been observed that the increase
concentration of CuO nanoparticles in refrigerant has result in decrease power
consumption of the system

40 | P a g e
 CHAPTER-6
CONCLUSION AND FUTURE SCOPE

6.1 Conclusions

The present research work entitled “Experimental and performance study of Nano
refrigerant (R290 + CuO) in vapour compression refrigeration system” was aimed at,
to use nanoparticles in conjunction with hydrocarbon refrigerant. It has been decided to
use nanoparticles CuO of size 20-30 nm size. Different concentrations of nanoparticles
were taken to investigate the performance of a refrigeration system.

i. The system was charged with Nano refrigerant R290+CuO 0.20 gm mass, 0.30gm
mass and 0.40 gm mass of nanoparticles
ii. Readings were taken at 3.4LPH volume flow rate and for two heat fluxes in
evaporator at temperature 25–26 oC and 35–36 oC
iii. Temperature drop in condenser, temperature gain in evaporator& COP for the
system were studied for pure refrigerant and Nano refrigerant at all concentrations.
iv. It was initiate that accumulation of CuO nanoparticles to the refrigerant results in
enhancement in the thermo physical properties and heat transfer properties of the
refrigeration system
v. It was observed that there is more temperature drop across the condenser for the
Nano refrigerant (12.36% – 18.86%) compared to refrigerant R290. An
improvement in COP was also observed during the researches (3.684% – 21.05%).
This was achieved under evaporator constant load at 35-36oC
vi. It is observed same results when refrigeration system is operated at heat load 35–
36oC evaporator temperature.
vii. A reduction in the power consumption (11.5% to 31.8%) along with temperature
drop (from 40oC – 25oC) is also achieved when Nano refrigerants are used.
viii. The experimental studies indicated that refrigeration system doesn’t suffer with
Nano refrigerant and works normal like any conventional refrigeration system
ix. Refrigerating effect increase with the increase in concentration (0.20gm to 0.40gm)
of nanoparticles in refrigerant.

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6.2 Future scope

The present analysis work was aimed toward only one form of nanoparticle, three
concentration and single refrigerant, however there are number of different
parameters are exist which may be varied and system performance will be evaluated.

i. Nanoparticles with different concentrations can be used.

ii. There are number of refrigerants other than refrigerant hydrocarbon which can be
used to investigate the performance.
iii. By using digital temperature and pressure gauges and other Sensors to make the
system more accurate.
iv. System can be investigated with different flow rates, different evaporator loads, at
different environment conditions with different number of refrigerants.
v. Nanoparticles will be employed in the evaporator water or in evaporator
loading system.
vi. System can also be made to work with nanoparticles in lubricant oil.

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