Operation and performance of the University of Florida solar air-conditioning system

• Published in: Solar energy 1966, Vol.10 (2), p.91-95
• Main Authors: Farber, E.A., Flanigan, F.M., Lopez, L., Polifka, R.W.
• Format: Article
• Language: English
• ISSN: 0038-092X; 1471-1257
• DOI: 10.1016/0038-092X(66)90043-0

This paper discusses the operation and performance of the continuous absorption refrigeration system using ammonia and water as the working fluid and being operated by flat-plate solar absorbers. This system has been operating continuously over the greater part of the day producing 2.4 tons of refrigeration with peak loads of 3.7 tons of refrigeration. During steady-state operation the refrigeration effect to the heat input was 0.57. This could be raised to 0.72 with minor system modifications, namely, enlarging the heat exchanger between absorber and generator of the absorption system. Based on operation with auxiliary heat sources this system seems to be able to deliver as much as six tons of refrigeration if enough heat is supplied to the system. This would require the enlargement of the collecting surface from the present 400 square feet to about 1000 square feet. The concentrations used in the system varied from about 58 percent in the absorber to about 39 percent in the generator. Water supply temperatures varied from 140 to 200 degrees F with usual operation at about 175 degrees F.