Experimental performance of a reciprocating compressor in a propane heat pump

Abstract

Consulta en la Biblioteca ETSI Industriales (7980)

[EN] The experimental performance of a 100 kW heat pump using propane as refrigerant is discussed in the present thesis. A new data collection campaign has been performed, investigating in particular the behaviour of the semi-hermetic reciprocating compressor with propane and the performance of the heat pump at reduced capacity. Experimental data about the global, volumetric and isentropic efficiency of the semi-hermetic compressor installed in the facility is reported and compared against the results given by some semi empirical models (i.e. Pierre, 1982 and E. Fornasieri, 1983) for reciprocating compressors. In particular, the influence of the superheating of propane on the compressor performance is measured and discussed. Regarding the performance of the heat pump, experimental data about the influence of the superheating on the COP and heating capacity is reported. This superheating was obtained by two ways, modifying the setting of the expansion device or by using an internal heat exchanger. The performance of the heat pump has also been simulated by means of the IMST ART software and the results have been compared against experimental data.