Review article
https://doi.org/10.15255/KUI.2024.048
An Overview of Techniques for Enhancing the Performance of Refrigeration Systems
Deborah Olufunke Bolaji
; Department of Mechanical Engineering, Federal University Oye-Ekiti, PMB. 373, Oye-Ekiti, Ekiti State, Nigeria
Bukola Olalekan Bolaji
; Department of Mechanical Engineering, Federal University Oye-Ekiti, PMB. 373, Oye-Ekiti, Ekiti State, Nigeria
*
Kazeem Aderemi Bello
; Department of Mechanical Engineering, Federal University Oye-Ekiti, PMB. 373, Oye-Ekiti, Ekiti State, Nigeria
Tunde Oluwatoyin Ogundana
; Department of Mechanical Engineering, Federal University Oye-Ekiti, PMB. 373, Oye-Ekiti, Ekiti State, Nigeria
Olarewaju Thomas Oginni
; Department of Mechanical Engineering, Bamidele Olumilua University of Education, Science and Technology, Ikere-Ekiti, Nigeria
Olatunde Ajani Oyelaran
orcid.org/0000-0002-0037-1907
; Department of Mechanical Engineering, Federal University Oye-Ekiti, PMB. 373, Oye-Ekiti, Ekiti State, Nigeria
* Corresponding author.
Abstract
Enhancing the efficiency of refrigeration and air conditioning systems contributes to more energy-efficient buildings and yields significant environmental benefits. Technological innovation has been a key driver in improving the performance of refrigeration systems. This article reviews tested strategies for optimising the performance of air conditioning and refrigeration systems, which remain among the most energy-intensive end uses in both residential and non-residential buildings. It reveals that the search for alternatives to ozone-depleting and high-global-warming refrigerants during this transitional period should focus not only on environmentally friendly refrigerants but also on those that are energy-efficient and possess a higher coefficient of performance than the refrigerants they replace. In addition, the potential benefits of retrofitting should be examined as a means of improving system performance. While the installation of new systems may be required to achieve superior environmental control and energy performance, such an approach often entails a high initial cost. Nevertheless, it may ultimately prove to be the most cost-effective solution over the equipment’s lifespan. This article explores two prominent applications of nanotechnology that can enhance heat transfer in refrigeration systems. Other cutting-edge technologies, such as the use of ejectors, internal heat exchangers, and cascade systems are discussed for their capacity to significantly improve system performance. Overall, this work offers a comprehensive assessment of viable methods for enhancing the performance of air conditioning and refrigeration equipment, providing valuable insights for researchers in the field.
Keywords
energy consumption; energy efficiency; nanorefrigerant; performance enhancement; refrigeration system
Hrčak ID:
329600
URI
Publication date:
15.5.2025.
Visits: 612 *