Model-Based Condenser Fan Speed Optimization of Vapor Compression Systems

Sebastian Angermeier and Christian Karcher
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Sebastian Angermeier: Institute of Thermodynamics and Fluid Mechanics, Technische Universität Ilmenau, 98684 Ilmenau, Germany
Christian Karcher: Institute of Thermodynamics and Fluid Mechanics, Technische Universität Ilmenau, 98684 Ilmenau, Germany

Energies, 2020, vol. 13, issue 22, 1-26

Abstract: Vapor compression systems (VCS) cover a wide range of applications and consume large amounts of energy. In this context, previous research identified the optimization of the condenser fans speed as a promising measure to improve the energy efficiency of VCS. The present paper introduces a steady-state modeling approach of an air-cooled VCS to predict the ideal condenser fan speed. The model consists of a hybrid characterization of the main components of a VCS and the optimization problem is formulated as minimizing the total energy consumption by respectively adjusting the condenser fan and compressor speed. In contrast to optimization strategies found in the literature, the proposed model does not relay on algorithms, but provides a single optimization term to predict the ideal fan speed. A detailed experimental validation demonstrates the feasibility of the model approach and further suggests that the ideal condenser fan speed can be calculated with sufficient precision, assuming constant evaporating pressure, compressor efficiency, subcooling, and superheating, respectively. In addition, a control strategy based on the developed model is presented, which is able to drive the VCS to its optimal operation. Therefore, the study provides a crucial input for set-point optimization and steady-state modeling of air-cooled vapor compression systems.

Keywords: coefficient of system performance; steady-state modeling; set-point optimization; ideal condensing pressure; air-cooled chiller; refrigeration (search for similar items in EconPapers)
JEL-codes: Q Q0 Q4 Q40 Q41 Q42 Q43 Q47 Q48 Q49 (search for similar items in EconPapers)
Date: 2020
References: View references in EconPapers View complete reference list from CitEc
Citations: View citations in EconPapers (2)

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