Thermodynamic analysis of simple and modified organic Rankine cycle and vapor compression refrigeration (ORC–VCR) systems

AbstractThis paper compares the thermodynamic performance of two ORC–VCR systems using the zeotropic mixture (Hexane/R245fa); one is a simple ORC–VCR system whereas the second one is a modified ORC–VCR system. Both ORC–VCR systems are different in terms of VCR sub‐cycle. The modified ORC–VCR system contains an additional flash tank, expansion valve, and compressor compared to the simple ORC–VCR system in the VCR sub‐cycle. The thermodynamic performance of the systems have been evaluated in terms of Cooling capacity (Qevap), Coefficient of performance of the system (COPs), exergetic efficiency (ηex), and cost function (UAtot) . Modified ORC–VCR system exhibits 23.4, 23.4, 29.00, and 41% enhancement in cooling capacity (Qevap), COPs, exergetic efficiency (ηex), and cost function (UAtot), respectively, compared to the simple system. Moreover, there is 4, 5, and 84.73% enhancement in Qevap at the mass fraction of 0.9, COPs at the mass fraction of 0.6, and ηex at the mass fraction of 0.5 for the modified ORC–VCR system with the use of the zeotropic mixture.