This paper proposes a modified vapor-compression refrigeration cycle (MVRC) system
operating with the zeotropic mixture R290/R600a for domestic refrigerator-freezers. In
the MVRC system, a phase separator is introduced to enhance the overall system
performance. A theoretical energy and exergy analysis on the performance of the
MVRC is carried out by using the developed mathematical model, and then compared
with that of the traditional vapor-compression refrigeration cycle (TVRC) operating
with the refrigerant R600a and the zeotropic mixture R290/R600a, respectively.
According to the simulation results of these two cycles, the MVRC can give the most
excellent performances in the COP (coefficient of performance), the volumetric
refrigeration capacity, the total exergy destruction and the exergetic efficiency under
the same given operating conditions. Therefore, the performance characteristics of the
MVRC may show its promise in domestic refrigerator-freezer applications.
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