Enhancement of Exergy Efficiency in Vapor Compression Refrigeration Systems Using Wo3-based Nanolubricants
Year: 2025
Type: article
Abstract: Minimizing compressor power consumption is a critical challenge in vapor compression refrigeration systems. Recent studies have explored the potential of hybrid nanolubricants to enhance energy efficiency in compressors. This study evaluates the performance of a refrigeration system using synthesized tungsten (VI) oxide (WO3)-based nanolubricants due to their excellent thermal stability, tribological properties, and compatibility with lubricating oils. Cobalt (Co), nickel (Ni), and copper (Cu) nanoparticles were doped onto WO3 via a wet impregnation method to produce Co/WO3, Ni/WO3, and Cu/WO3 samples. Experimental analyses were conducted at nanolubricant mass fractions of 0.3%, 0.6%, 0.9%, and 1.2%, with Triton X-100 surfactant (0.5%) to stabilize the suspensions. Exergy analysis indicated that the highest efficiency was achieved with Co/WO3 at a 0.9% mass fraction, resulting in a 17% increase in exergy efficiency. Additionally, using Co/WO3 nanolubricant as the working fluid in the compressor improved the coefficient of performance (COP) by 41.62% compared to conventional polyalkylene glycol (PAG) oil.
Source: Heat Transfer Research
Institutions: Manisa Celal Bayar University, Necmettin Erbakan University
Language: English
Subfield: Mechanical Engineering
Field: Engineering
Domain: Physical Sciences
Open Access status: green
OpenAlex ID: W4410983587