Construction of an absorption refrigerator

Abstract

Absorption Refrigeration is a system where a conventional Vapour Compression system is modified by replacing its compressor with a heat source. It is considered as a good alternative when there is lack of reliable electricity. Absorption Refrigeration is seen as a feasible option for economical refrigeration as it can function with various methods which can be solar heating or by using steam available from the boiler. The aim of this project is to construct a working model based on the Einstein refrigeration cycle, operating with ammonia as the refrigerant and calcium chloride as the absorbent. Ammonia was chosen as it can produce relatively low temperatures, whilst calcium chloride was chosen as it was found to be a better alternative to water. Once the working model was constructed, it was used to obtain estimates of the coefficient of performance available with this method.