Case studies on domestic refrigerator energy rationing by implementing a hybrid PV-driven condenser cooling system
Year: 2024
Type: article
Abstract: The limitations of exploiting renewable energy within a relatively limited surface area have hindered the use of off-grid residential equipment (i.e., refrigerators). It is then crucial for the energy management of these appliances to implement feasible and properly sized PV systems. Thus, promoting heat emissions from refrigerator condensers (i.e., hot-walled condensers) to the surroundings throughout the day prompts the current investigation. Ten condenser cooling case studies that incorporated both partially (75%) and fully loaded (100%) refrigerator storage capacities were examined experimentally. The results of the modified condenser cooling systems, powered by either an electrical grid or a limited (PV) system, were compared to those of the original refrigerator. The experiments show that the blast cooling and freezing efficiency of chilled and frozen products increased by 32%, 39.4%, 39.3%, and 36%, respectively, when the refrigerator was partially and fully loaded. Nevertheless, the electrical grid showcased the highest level of savings in cases (3) and (9), with a daily energy saving ratio (DESR) of 9.3% and 5.4%, respectively. The integration of a hybrid power source that includes a PV panel resulted in the most significant savings of 17.5% and 11.4%, respectively, for the same cases.
Authors: Moataz M. Abdel-Raouf, M.A. Eid, M. Elsayed, M. Salah Mansour
Language: English
Subfield: Mechanical Engineering
Field: Engineering
Domain: Physical Sciences
Open Access status: gold
Estimated APC paid: $1,210
OpenAlex ID: W4405237160