Performance Improvement of a Domestic Refrigerator Using Pcm

Abstract

The project deals with the performance improvement of a refrigerator using PCM (phase change material). The heat release and storage rate of a refrigerator depends upon the characteristics of refrigerant and its properties. The evaporator is covered with help of leak proof aluminum box which has storage capacity or passage for phase change material is fabricated. The HS01/I is an inorganic chemical based PCM having nominal freezing temperature of 1⁰C. It stores thermal energy as latent heat in its crystalline form. While changing phase this latent heat is released or absorbed, allowing in maintaining the ambient temperature. HS01/I is made of the right mix of various salts, additives and nucleating agents allowing equilibrium between solid and liquid phases to be attained at the melting point. The HS01/I are free flowing in molten state and can be encapsulated in various forms. COP of a domestic refrigerator system is calculated. It is found that the system with PCM is more effective than system without PCM and is increased up to 23 %. The energy stored in the PCM is yielded to the refrigerator during the off cycle and allows several hours cooling without power supply.