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Multi-objective optimization of a vapor compression portable cooler.

Number: 2179

Author(s) : MARCHI D., ALVES V. H. F., HERMES C. J. L.

Summary

This paper presents a multi-objective optimization of a 38-liter vapor compression cooler aiming at performance maximization and weight minimization. An experimental mapping of the thermodynamic efficiencies (internal, external, and overall) of a vapor compression portable cooler running with two different compressors was performed to identify opportunities for energy optimization. In the analysis, the original crankshaft reciprocating compressor was replaced by a small-capacity mini-rotary one with half of the weight and one-third of the shell volume when compared with the baseline one. Albeit the latter presented an overall second-law efficiency about 10% lower, the refrigeration cycle (internal) efficiency increased by 25%, thus indicating not only that the mini-rotary compressor performed better than the original one, but also that there is room for a proper redesign of the heat exchangers. To this end, a steadystate system simulation model was advanced for the design and optimization exercises, which explored not only the evaporator and condenser heat transfer areas, but also the thickness of the cabinet insulating walls. One the one hand, the Pareto front revealed a system configuration that consumes 13% less energy than the baseline cooler if the weight remains unchanged. On the other hand, for the same energy performance, the optimization led to a cooler 15% lighter than the baseline.

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  • Original title: Multi-objective optimization of a vapor compression portable cooler.
  • Record ID : 30030599
  • Languages: English
  • Subject: Technology
  • Source: 2022 Purdue Conferences. 19th International Refrigeration and Air-Conditioning Conference at Purdue.
  • Publication date: 2022

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