Vapor absorption refrigeration
Vapor absorption refrigeration is a type of refrigeration system that uses a solution of Lithium Bromide and water as the refrigerant. This system uses heat energy to drive the refrigeration cycle, unlike vapor compression refrigeration which requires electricity.
The basic components of a vapor absorption refrigeration system include an evaporator, absorber, generator, and condenser. The refrigerant in this system is water, which is evaporated in the evaporator by absorbing heat from the environment to be cooled. The vapor is then absorbed by the LiBr solution in the absorber, producing a concentrated LiBr solution and a low-pressure vapor.
The concentrated LiBr solution is then heated in the generator using a heat source such as natural gas, steam or solar energy, which causes the water vapor to be released from the solution. The resulting water vapor is then condensed in the condenser and forming a liquid water refrigerant.
The refrigerant then flows back to the evaporator and the cycle repeats.
Vapor absorption refrigeration has several advantages over traditional vapor compression refrigeration, including lower energy consumption and operating costs, reduced environmental impact, and the ability to use waste heat as a heat source. However, it also has some drawbacks, including larger equipment size and lower cooling capacity compared to vapor compression systems.
Overall, vapor absorption refrigeration is an alternative to vapor compression refrigeration in applications where heat energy is readily available and where lower operating costs and environmental impact are desired.
Example : Vapor Absorption Machine
FAQ
Ques 1 - What is the principle of vapour absorption?
Ans - The principle of vapor absorption is commonly used in refrigeration and air conditioning systems, where it is used to provide cooling without the use of a compressor. In these systems, the vapor to be absorbed is typically refrigerant, and the absorbent is a solution of lithium bromide or another suitable compound.
Ques 2 - Which refrigerant is used in vapour absorption system?
Ans -The refrigerant, commonly used in a vapour absorption system, is water.
Ques 3 - What are the main components of vapour absorption system?
Ans - The main components of a vapor absorption system are:
Absorber: This is the vessel where the absorbent liquid and the vapor to be absorbed come into contact. The absorbent liquid absorbs the vapor and becomes a solution.
Generator: This is the vessel where the solution of the absorbent liquid and the absorbed vapor are separated by heating the solution. The vapor is released from the absorbent liquid.
Condenser: This is the component where the vapor that has been released from the absorbent liquid in the generator is condensed back into a liquid state.
Evaporator: This is the component where the liquid refrigerant absorbs heat from the environment and evaporates, producing the cooling effect
Ques 4 - What are the advantages of vapour absorption refrigeration system?
Ans - The advantages of a vapor absorption refrigeration system include:
Lower Energy Consumption: Compared to vapor compression refrigeration systems, vapor absorption systems have lower energy consumption, as they do not require a compressor.
Environmentally Friendly: Vapor absorption refrigeration systems typically use natural refrigerants and do not release harmful CFCs or HFCs into the atmosphere, making them a more environmentally friendly option.
Quiet Operation: Since vapor absorption refrigeration systems do not have a compressor, they typically operate more quietly than vapor compression systems.
Reliable Operation: Vapor absorption refrigeration systems are generally more reliable than vapor compression systems, as they have fewer moving parts and are less prone to mechanical failure.
Flexible Energy Sources: Vapor absorption refrigeration systems can be powered by a wide range of energy sources, including natural gas, propane, solar power, and waste heat. This flexibility can make them a good option in areas where electricity is unreliable or expensive.
Longer Life Span: Vapor absorption refrigeration systems have a longer life span than vapor compression systems, as they do not suffer from problems like refrigerant leakage or compressor failure.
