CHAPTER ONE

1.1 HISTORY

In the early years of the 20th century, the vapor absorption cycle, employing water-ammonia

systems, held a prominent place in the world of refrigeration. However, with the development of

the vapor compression cycle, it gradually lost its standing, primarily due to its lower coefficient of

performance, which was about one-fifth of that achieved by the vapor compression cycle. Despite

this decline in significance, absorption refrigeration systems continue to have a vital role in today's

refrigeration landscape

Absorption refrigerators represent an appealing alternative to conventional compressor-based

refrigerators, particularly in situations where electricity is unreliable, costly, or unavailable. These

systems also find favour in settings where noise from the compressor can be problematic or where

surplus heat is readily accessible.

The roots of modern refrigeration trace back to the 18th century when William Cullen, a Scottish

scientist, laid the foundation for this transformative technology. Although his work did not

immediately lead to practical applications, it was a crucial milestone in the history of refrigeration.

Further insights into the historical evolution of refrigeration can be explored in the dedicated

section on Refrigeration Research.

The underlying principle of absorption refrigeration aligns with that of adsorption refrigeration,

which was first conceived by Michael Faraday in 1821. However, in the case of absorption

systems, an absorber is responsible for drawing in the refrigerant vapour into a liquid, as opposed

to the solid adsorber used in adsorption refrigeration.

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The French scientist Ferdinand Carré is credited with the invention of absorption cooling in 1858,

originally employing water and sulphuric acid in his design. Notably, in 1922, two Swedish

students from the Royal Institute of Technology, Baltzar von Platen and Carl Munters, introduced

a significant improvement by introducing a three-fluid configuration. This innovative "Platen-

Munters" design possessed the unique ability to operate without the need for a pump.

Commercial production of absorption refrigeration systems commenced in 1923 with the

establishment of AB Arctic, a company that would later be acquired by Electrolux in 1925. A

resurgence of interest in absorption refrigeration occurred in the 1960s, driven by the growing

demand for refrigerators in caravans and travel trailers. AB Electrolux extended its reach to the

United States, creating a subsidiary named Dometic Sales Corporation, which marketed

refrigerators for recreational vehicles (RVs) under the Dometic brand. In 2001, Electrolux divested

its leisure products line to EQT, a venture-capital company, leading to the establishment of

Dometic as an independent entity. Even in 2021, Dometic continues to offer absorption fridges.

In 1926, the renowned physicist Albert Einstein, in collaboration with his former student Leó

Szilárd, proposed an alternative refrigeration design known as the "Einstein refrigerator."

A significant breakthrough in absorption refrigeration was presented in 2007 by Adam Grosser at

the TED Conference. He unveiled a compact "intermittent absorption" vaccine refrigeration unit

designed for use in resource-constrained regions, particularly in third-world countries. This

innovative refrigerator, a small unit that could be placed over a campfire, had the capacity to cool

15 liters of water to just above freezing for 24 hours in a 30°C environment. The concept shared

similarities with an early refrigeration device known as the Icyball.

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 1.2 INTRODUCTION

The basis of absorption refrigeration is a method of employing a two-coolant system wherein the

primary coolant induces evaporative cooling; and is subsequently absorbed into the secondary

coolant. Heat is then applied to the solution and the primary coolant is vaporized out and

proceeds to the condenser. This specific interaction is what separates this process from other

refrigeration methods

Another important feature of absorption refrigeration is its ability to harness diverse heat sources.

Whether tapping into solar thermal energy, utilizing combustion processes, extracting waste heat

from industrial operations, or integrating with district heating systems; these refrigeration

systems exhibit remarkable adaptability, making them well-suited for a wide range of settings

and applications.

A prime example of their adaptability can be found in recreational vehicles (RVs), campers, and

caravans. These refrigeration systems can be powered by a propane burner, low-voltage DC

electric heaters connected to batteries or vehicle electrical systems, or mains-powered electric

heaters. This flexibility ensures that travellers can keep perishable goods at low temperatures,

regardless of their location or the availability of power sources.

Absorption refrigeration extends its utility beyond mobile settings. It plays a crucial role in large-

scale air-conditioning systems for buildings, capitalizing on waste heat generated by sources like

gas engines or water heaters. This process, known as trigeneration, enhances energy efficiency

by converting waste heat into electricity, hot water, and cooling, contributing significantly to

energy savings and overall system efficiency.

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 1.3 WORKING PRINCIPLES

Absorption refrigeration systems utilize a heat source to drive the cooling process, relying on two

essential fluids: a refrigerant and an absorbent.

Cycle of Operation:

1. Evaporation: The refrigerant, typically a low-pressure liquid with a low boiling point,

evaporates in the evaporator. During this process, it absorbs heat from the refrigerated

space, causing the space to cool down.

2. Absorption: The refrigerant vapour generated in the evaporator is absorbed by the

absorbent in the absorber. This absorption releases the heat of absorption to the

environment.

3. Generation: The refrigerant-absorbent solution is then pumped to the generator, a high-

pressure vessel heated by an external heat source. This heat causes the refrigerant to boil

off from the absorbent, leaving behind a concentrated absorbent solution.

4. Condensation: The refrigerant vapor is directed to the condenser, another high-pressure

vessel cooled by the environment. In the condenser, the refrigerant vapor condenses back

into a liquid state as it loses heat to the surroundings.

5. Expansion: After condensation, the liquid refrigerant passes through an expansion valve,

a throttling device that reduces both its pressure and temperature. This reduction in pressure

and temperature prepares the refrigerant for the evaporation phase.

6. Cooling: The refrigerant, now at a low pressure and temperature, returns to the evaporator,

completing the cycle. In the evaporator, it can evaporate once more, absorbing heat from

the refrigerated space and repeating the entire process.

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Figure 1: Basic Absorption Cycle

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 CHAPTER TWO

2.1 MERITS OF ABSORPTION REFRIGERATION

Absorption refrigeration systems offer several advantages that make them an attractive choice for

various applications:

1. Exceptional Energy Efficiency: Absorption refrigeration systems are renowned for their high

energy efficiency, especially when utilizing low-grade or waste heat sources. This exceptional

efficiency not only reduces energy costs but also contributes to a smaller carbon footprint. For

instance, in industrial settings, waste heat from manufacturing processes can be harnessed to power

absorption refrigeration, increasing overall energy utilization.

2. Quiet and Vibration-Free Operation: Unlike vapour compression systems that rely on noisy

mechanical compressors, absorption refrigeration systems operate quietly and without vibration.

This characteristic is highly advantageous in residential and office settings, where noise pollution

can be a concern. For instance, hotels and hospitals benefit from the silent operation of absorption

cooling in guest rooms and patient areas.

3. Enhanced Reliability: Absorption systems have fewer moving parts compared to their

mechanical compressor counterparts. This reduction in mechanical complexity results in reduced

wear and tear, leading to increased system longevity and reliability. Maintenance costs are lower,

and downtime is minimized, making absorption refrigeration systems ideal for critical applications

such as data centres and laboratories.

4. Environmentally Friendly Refrigerants: Absorption refrigeration systems often employ

sustainable and environmentally friendly refrigerants like ammonia and water. These natural

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refrigerants have low global warming potential and do not contribute to ozone depletion. Their use

aligns with environmental regulations and sustainability goals, reducing the ecological impact of

cooling systems. For example, ammonia-water absorption chillers are commonly used in industrial

processes to achieve cooling while minimizing environmental harm.

5. Heat Source Versatility: One of the most significant merits of absorption refrigeration is its

adaptability to a wide range of heat sources. These systems can utilize various heat inputs,

including waste heat from industrial processes, solar energy, natural gas, or geothermal energy.

This versatility makes them well-suited for diverse environments, from manufacturing facilities to

remote off-grid locations and solar-powered cooling systems.

2.2 DEMERITS OF ABSORPTION REFRIGERATION:

While absorption refrigeration systems offer several advantages, they also have certain limitations

and drawbacks:

1. Complexity and Size: Absorption refrigeration systems tend to be bulkier and more complex

than their vapour compression counterparts. Their size and intricacy make them less suitable for

compact or space-constrained applications, such as small refrigerators or cooling units in compact

vehicles.

2. Higher Initial Cost: The initial cost of absorption refrigeration systems can be higher than

conventional vapour compression systems. This cost disparity is often attributed to the specialized

components and materials required in absorption systems. For instance, the procurement and

installation of absorption chillers for large commercial buildings may involve a significant upfront

investment.

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3. Maintenance Requirements: Although absorption systems have fewer moving parts, they still

require periodic maintenance to ensure proper operation. Maintenance procedures can be more

complex and costly due to the need for precise calibration and management of the various chemical

and mechanical components. For example, in industrial settings, regular maintenance of absorption

chillers is crucial to avoid downtime and maintain efficiency.

4. Lower Cooling Efficiency: In some cases, absorption systems may exhibit a lower coefficient

of performance (COP) compared to vapour compression systems, particularly when operating at

low temperatures. This reduced efficiency can impact their performance, especially in applications

where high cooling efficiency is critical. An example would be refrigeration systems used in food

processing or pharmaceutical storage facilities, where maintaining low temperatures is essential.

5. Limited Cooling Capacity: Absorption refrigeration systems may have limitations on their

cooling capacity. They may not be suitable for large-scale cooling applications where high cooling

output is required. As a result, they are often found in smaller to medium-sized systems, and

alternative technologies like vapour compression are preferred for larger-scale industrial

refrigeration.

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 CHAPTER THREE

3.1 PERFORMANCE CRITERIA

Evaluating the performance of absorption refrigeration systems is essential for ensuring their
efficiency and reliability. The following criteria are commonly used to measure their
performance:

1. Coefficient of Performance (COP): The COP is a fundamental metric used to assess the

efficiency of the system. It quantifies how effectively the system converts heat into cooling.

The COP is defined as the ratio of the cooling capacity of the system to the heat input required

to operate the system. A higher COP indicates better energy efficiency and is a key factor in

determining the economic viability of the system

𝑄 𝑇
𝐶𝑂𝑃 = =
𝑄 −𝑄 𝑇 −𝑇

Where:

QC > 0 – Heat removed from the cold reservoir

QH < 0 – Heat given off to the hot reservoir.

TH - Thermodynamic temperature of the hot reservoir.

TC – Thermodynamic temperature of the cold reservoir.

1. Specific Cooling Capacity (SCC): SCC measures the cooling capacity of the system per unit

mass of refrigerant. This metric provides insights into the system's ability to deliver cooling

relative to the amount of refrigerant used. A higher SCC suggests that the system is capable of

providing more cooling for a given quantity of refrigerant, which can be particularly relevant

in applications where refrigerant conservation is essential.

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2. Regeneration Time: The regeneration time is a critical parameter for absorption systems. It

represents the duration required to regenerate the sorbent material from a depleted state (where

it has absorbed the refrigerant) to a saturated state (where it can absorb no more refrigerant). A

shorter regeneration time is desirable, as it minimizes system downtime and maximizes

operational efficiency. Understanding and optimizing regeneration time is crucial for

maintaining consistent cooling performance.

These performance criteria collectively enable engineers, operators, and designers to assess and

optimize the operation of absorption refrigeration systems. By monitoring and improving these

metrics, it's possible to enhance system efficiency, reduce operating costs, and ensure reliable

cooling in various applications.

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 CHAPTER FOUR

4.1 APPLICATIONS OF ABSORPTION REFRIGERATION SYSTEMS

Absorption refrigeration systems find practical use in a wide range of applications due to their

unique advantages. This section explores some of the key areas where these systems are applied:

1. Industrial Cooling:

Description: Absorption refrigeration systems are commonly used for industrial cooling

applications. They can efficiently manage large cooling loads required in manufacturing

processes, chemical plants, and food processing facilities.

Example: In the food industry, absorption chillers are employed to maintain low temperatures

during the production and storage of perishable goods, such as dairy products and meat.

2. Air Conditioning and HVAC:

Description: Absorption chillers are a popular choice for air conditioning and HVAC systems

in commercial and industrial buildings. They capitalize on waste heat from sources like gas

engines or steam to provide cooling.

Example: Large office complexes and hospitals use absorption cooling systems to efficiently

maintain indoor comfort while minimizing energy consumption.

3. Data Centres:

Description: Data centres require precise temperature and humidity control to ensure the

optimal operation of servers and electronic equipment. Absorption cooling systems are well-

suited for this purpose.

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 Example: Data centres often rely on absorption chillers to manage their cooling needs while

recovering waste heat for other purposes.

4. Off-Grid and Remote Applications:

Description: In remote or off-grid locations where access to electricity is limited, absorption

refrigeration systems are essential. They can be powered by a variety of heat sources,

including solar energy and natural gas.

Example: Remote research stations in the Arctic or deserts can rely on solar-powered

absorption refrigeration systems to maintain critical cooling functions.

5. Solar-Powered Refrigeration:

Description: Solar absorption refrigeration systems are used in off-grid or environmentally

sensitive areas. Solar collectors capture and convert sunlight into thermal energy for cooling

purposes.

Example: Remote villages with limited access to electricity and refrigeration often use solar-

powered absorption refrigeration systems for preserving food and medicines.

6. Automotive Refrigeration:

Description: Absorption refrigeration is employed in recreational vehicles (RVs), campers,

and caravans. The systems can be powered by propane, low-voltage DC electric heaters, or

mains-powered electric heaters.

Example: Travelers and campers use absorption refrigeration systems to keep perishable

goods at low temperatures regardless of their location and power sources.

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 CHAPTER FIVE

5.1 CONCLUSION

In conclusion, the exploration of absorption refrigeration systems reveals a versatile and innovative

approach to cooling technology. This report has provided a comprehensive understanding of the

working principles, merits, and demerits of absorption refrigeration, along with key performance

criteria, types, and various applications.

Absorption refrigeration systems offer a range of advantages, including high energy efficiency,

quiet operation, reliability, the use of sustainable refrigerants, and heat source versatility. These

attributes make them well-suited for a wide spectrum of applications, from industrial cooling to

air conditioning, data centres, and off-grid or remote settings.

However, it is crucial to acknowledge the demerits of absorption refrigeration systems, which

include their complexity, higher initial cost, maintenance requirements, potential lower cooling

efficiency in specific scenarios, and limitations in cooling capacity for larger-scale applications.

Furthermore, the report has outlined the significant performance criteria used to assess the

efficiency and operation of absorption refrigeration systems. These criteria, such as the Coefficient

of Performance (COP), Specific Cooling Capacity (SCC), and Regeneration Time, play a vital role

in evaluating and optimizing the systems' performance.

Recent developments and ongoing research in the field of absorption refrigeration highlight a

commitment to enhancing energy efficiency, exploring sustainable refrigerants, developing

advanced sorbent materials, and integrating these systems with renewable energy sources. These

innovations contribute to the continuous evolution of absorption refrigeration and its potential for

broader and more sustainable applications.

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As the demand for energy-efficient and environmentally friendly cooling solutions continues to

grow, absorption refrigeration systems remain a promising technology. The adaptability of these

systems across diverse settings and the ongoing research in the field demonstrate their resilience

and potential to address the cooling needs of the future.

In conclusion, absorption refrigeration systems represent a promising and dynamic area of

refrigeration technology, with the capacity to significantly impact various industries and

applications. Their unique characteristics and adaptability make them a valuable addition to the

field of cooling and refrigeration.

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 REFERENCES

Nikbakhti, R. Wang, X., Hussein, H. A. and Iranmanesh A. (2020). Absorption cooling systems –

Review of various techniques for energy performance enhancement. Alexandria Engineering

Journal, 59(2), 707-737

American Society of Heating, Refrigerating and Air-Conditioning Engineers (ASHRAE). (2023).

Handbook of absorption refrigeration systems (6th ed.). Atlanta, GA

R. S. Khurmi, Joyeeta Gupta (2006). A Textbook of Refrigeration and Air Conditioning. 1st Ed.

Chand (S.) & Co Ltd ,India;

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