Absorption Refrigeration Systems Overview

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Questions and Answers

What is the primary function of the generator in the LiBr absorption refrigeration system?

  • To expand the refrigerant before it enters the evaporator.
  • To absorb heat from the solution.
  • To cool the refrigerant after condensation.
  • To raise the pressure of the refrigerant vapour. (correct)

At what pressure is the R-718 refrigerant in the generator?

  • $5 kPa$
  • $20 kPa$
  • $10 kPa$ (correct)
  • $15 kPa$

What happens to the refrigerant after it is boiled from the weak solution in the generator?

  • It raises the pressure and is then condensed in the condenser. (correct)
  • It evaporates and cools the chilled water.
  • It is directly used in the absorber.
  • It is stored in a tank for later use.

Which component in the absorption refrigeration system is responsible for the cooling of the refrigerant?

<p>Condenser (C)</p> Signup and view all the answers

What is the temperature of R-718 at the pressure of $10 kPa$?

<p>46°C (A)</p> Signup and view all the answers

What role does the expansion orifice play in the refrigeration cycle?

<p>It restricts the flow of refrigerant into the evaporator. (B)</p> Signup and view all the answers

What process occurs in the absorber of the LiBr absorption refrigeration system?

<p>Heat is released during absorption reaction. (A)</p> Signup and view all the answers

What is the primary purpose of adding octyl alcohol to the lithium bromide solution?

<p>To enhance the absorption of water vapor (B)</p> Signup and view all the answers

Which component is directly involved in transferring heat from the concentrated to the weak solution?

<p>Heat Exchanger (B)</p> Signup and view all the answers

How often should the strength of the anti-corrosion agent in the chilled water be checked?

<p>Monthly (A)</p> Signup and view all the answers

What should be done to check for bacterial growth in the cooling system?

<p>Add biocide to control bacterial growth (B)</p> Signup and view all the answers

When servicing the control system of an absorption refrigeration unit, what is recommended for operators?

<p>Call a service company for assistance (C)</p> Signup and view all the answers

What is the function of log sheets or computer printouts in an absorption refrigeration unit?

<p>To track periodic readings for performance diagnosis (A)</p> Signup and view all the answers

What is the correct procedure for adding octyl alcohol to the system?

<p>Fill a tube with distilled water first (D)</p> Signup and view all the answers

What should operators do if they notice a gradual change in the absorption unit's performance?

<p>Analyze log sheets for trends and diagnose issues (D)</p> Signup and view all the answers

What is a common mistake to avoid when dealing with malfunctions in control systems?

<p>Attempting to tinker with the controls (B)</p> Signup and view all the answers

What occurs when a saturated salt solution is heated?

<p>It becomes unsaturated and can hold more salt. (A)</p> Signup and view all the answers

What happens to a saturated solution when it is cooled?

<p>Salt crystals will precipitate out of the solution. (D)</p> Signup and view all the answers

What is the consequence of crystallization in a lithium bromide system?

<p>Crystals may block circulation. (A)</p> Signup and view all the answers

What is the relationship between the solubility of a solid and temperature?

<p>Higher temperatures generally increase solubility. (B)</p> Signup and view all the answers

What occurs in the lithium bromide absorption refrigeration unit due to the low-pressure section?

<p>Vapor pressure decreases due to high concentration. (C)</p> Signup and view all the answers

At what point is a solution classified as saturated?

<p>When no additional salt can dissolve in it. (A)</p> Signup and view all the answers

What is crystallization?

<p>The formation of salt crystals when a solution is cooled. (C)</p> Signup and view all the answers

What impact does the temperature have on vapor pressures in a lithium bromide unit?

<p>Vapor pressure is affected by both temperature and concentration. (C)</p> Signup and view all the answers

What is the primary purpose of the bypass in the Lithium Bromide Absorption Unit?

<p>To control the concentration of the solution (C)</p> Signup and view all the answers

At what temperature does the condenser operate in the system?

<p>45°C (B)</p> Signup and view all the answers

Which component is used to cool the water entering the system?

<p>Chilled Water System (B)</p> Signup and view all the answers

In the Lithium Bromide Absorption Unit, what pressure does the flash chamber operate at?

<p>6.3 mm Hg (B)</p> Signup and view all the answers

What is the purpose of the economizer in the absorption unit?

<p>To preheat the dilute solution before absorption (A)</p> Signup and view all the answers

What is the maximum temperature the evaporator reaches in the system?

<p>99°C (A)</p> Signup and view all the answers

Which part of the system is responsible for pumping the concentrated solution?

<p>Concentrator Pump (B)</p> Signup and view all the answers

What is a primary advantage of absorption refrigeration systems over compression systems?

<p>They do not require compressors. (D)</p> Signup and view all the answers

What is the temperature difference between cooling water in and cooling water out?

<p>7°C (A)</p> Signup and view all the answers

Why are lithium bromide systems only used in HVAC service?

<p>They cannot achieve low temperatures. (D)</p> Signup and view all the answers

What is the refrigerant used in lithium bromide absorption systems?

<p>R-718 (water) (D)</p> Signup and view all the answers

Which temperature represents the cooling water entering the absorption unit?

<p>35°C (B)</p> Signup and view all the answers

What must be closely controlled to prevent crystallization in lithium bromide systems?

<p>Temperature and pressure (A)</p> Signup and view all the answers

What does the absorber do in the Lithium Bromide Absorption Unit?

<p>Increases concentration of lithium bromide (C)</p> Signup and view all the answers

What procedure must be followed during system shutdown to prevent crystallization?

<p>Implement special shutdown procedures. (A)</p> Signup and view all the answers

What is a common issue that may arise with lithium bromide systems due to their salt solution?

<p>Precipitation of lithium bromide salt crystals (C)</p> Signup and view all the answers

What is necessary to keep air out of lithium bromide absorption systems?

<p>Hermetically sealed pumps and vessels (B)</p> Signup and view all the answers

What happens to the chilled water flow switch if there is improper operation?

<p>It opens and needs resetting. (C)</p> Signup and view all the answers

What is the first action taken to initiate the purge process in the absorption refrigeration system?

<p>Close the purge return valve (D)</p> Signup and view all the answers

Why is the purge exhaust valve cracked open during the purge process?

<p>To allow for the observation of escaping gases (B)</p> Signup and view all the answers

What happens after all gases have been purged from the system?

<p>The purge return valve is opened to start a new cycle (A)</p> Signup and view all the answers

What is the typical environmental setup for observing the gases during purging?

<p>A water-filled container (D)</p> Signup and view all the answers

How does the solution supply affect the storage chamber during purging?

<p>It compresses non-condensable gases above atmospheric pressure (C)</p> Signup and view all the answers

What role does automated control play in the start-up sequence of an absorption refrigeration system?

<p>It dictates the order of each step in the sequence (A)</p> Signup and view all the answers

What is the primary function of the purge return valve?

<p>To initiate the purge cycle (A)</p> Signup and view all the answers

What happens to the gases trapped in the upper part of the storage chamber during the purge?

<p>They are vented to atmosphere (D)</p> Signup and view all the answers

Flashcards

Heat Transfer in Absorption Refrigeration

The process by which heat is transferred from a concentrated solution to a weak solution.

Generator

The component of an absorption refrigeration system where the refrigerant is boiled from the weak solution, producing refrigerant vapor.

Condenser

The component of an absorption refrigeration system where the refrigerant vapor is condensed back into liquid using cooling water.

Expansion Orifice

A restriction in the refrigeration system that lowers the refrigerant pressure, allowing it to absorb heat from its surroundings.

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Evaporator

The component of an absorption refrigeration system where the refrigerant absorbs heat from the chilled water system.

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Absorber

The component of an absorption refrigeration system where the refrigerant vapor is absorbed by the weak solution.

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Concentration

The concentration of the refrigerant solution within the system, measured by the amount of refrigerant dissolved in the absorbent.

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Refrigerant Vapor Pressure Curve

The temperature-pressure relationship of a refrigerant, demonstrating the state change between liquid and vapor at various conditions.

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Saturated Solution

The maximum amount of solute that can dissolve in a given amount of solvent at a specific temperature.

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Crystallization

The process of forming solid crystals from a solution when the solution becomes supersaturated due to a decrease in temperature or an increase in concentration.

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Supersaturated Solution

A solution that contains more solute than it can normally hold at a given temperature, causing the excess solute to precipitate out as crystals.

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Solubility

The temperature at which a solution becomes saturated with a particular solute.

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High-Pressure Section

In a lithium bromide absorption refrigeration unit, the high-pressure section consisting of the concentrator (generator) and condenser.

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Low-Pressure Section

In a lithium bromide absorption refrigeration unit, the low-pressure section consisting of the evaporator and absorber.

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Concentration (in Lithium Bromide Chillers)

The process of removing water from a lithium bromide solution to increase its concentration.

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Purge Chamber

A component of an absorption refrigeration system that allows the non-condensable gases trapped within the system to be purged out and released to atmosphere, typically via a hose submerged in water.

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Concentrated Solution Bypass Valve

A valve used to control the flow of concentrated solution to the absorber, providing a bypass for excess solution.

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Purge Return Valve

A valve used to regulate the flow of the purge return solution back to the absorber or generator.

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Pressure Difference

The difference in pressure between the high-pressure side (condenser) and the low-pressure side (evaporator) creates the driving force for the refrigeration cycle.

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Purging

The process of removing non-condensable gases from the absorption refrigeration system, usually done during startup.

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Refrigerant Generation (or Boiling)

The process of separating the refrigerant from the weak solution by boiling, creating refrigerant vapor.

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Purge Exhaust Valve

A valve used to release the trapped non-condensable gases to atmosphere during the purge cycle.

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System Check

The initial step in the startup of an absorption refrigeration system, which involves checking and verifying that all systems are in correct order.

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Expansion Device

A device that reduces the pressure of the refrigerant, allowing it to absorb heat from its surroundings.

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Condenser Cooling Water Supply

The stage in a startup sequence where the cooling water supply is turned on to the condenser, which helps to cool down the refrigerant.

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Solution Flow

The part of the startup sequence where the solution flow is initiated to allow the refrigerant to be absorbed and circulated.

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Shutdown

The process of shutting down the absorption refrigeration system, which involves a series of steps to gradually bring the system to a complete stop.

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Concentrator Bypass Valve

Used to control the flow of concentrated solution to the economizer, providing a bypass for excess solution.

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Heat Transfer in the Economizer

This process involves transferring heat from the concentrated solution to the weak solution, helping regenerate the weak solution and improve efficiency.

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Economizer

The component where the weak solution is regenerated by absorbing heat from a hot water source.

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Chilled water flow switch opens

A malfunction in the chilled water flow switch, resulting in the opening of the switch and interrupting the flow of chilled water.

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Low temperature control switch opens

A situation where a cooling system's critical temperatures drop too low, triggering safety mechanisms to shut down the system.

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Motor temperature control trips out

An issue where a safety mechanism triggers due to a malfunction or excessive temperature in the motor, leading to a shutdown of the system.

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Shutdown procedures

A special procedure that must be followed during system shutdown to prevent the formation of damaging crystals.

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Total Dissolved Solids (TDS)

The amount of dissolved substances (like salts and minerals) in water, measured in parts per million (ppm).

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Biocide

A chemical that kills or inhibits the growth of algae, typically used in cooling towers.

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Octyl Alcohol

A type of alcohol added to lithium bromide solutions in absorption refrigeration systems to improve water absorption and increase efficiency.

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Access Valve

A valve used to control the flow of octyl alcohol into an absorption refrigeration system.

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Log Sheet

A log or printout that records pressure and temperature readings from an absorption refrigeration unit, helping operators identify trends and troubleshoot issues.

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Control System

A system that automatically controls the operation of an absorption refrigeration unit, often pre-set by the manufacturer.

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Bleed Off

The process of maintaining the concentration of the lithium bromide solution in an absorption refrigeration system by removing a portion of the solution and replacing it with fresh water.

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Study Notes

Absorption Refrigeration Systems

  • Absorption refrigeration systems use heat energy instead of mechanical energy, using low-cost sources like waste heat
  • They do not require compressors, thus reducing electrical energy consumption
  • Two common types of absorption systems are ammonia and lithium bromide systems
  • Ammonia systems are used in industrial settings, while lithium bromide systems are used in large HVAC chillers
  • Absorption systems use natural refrigerants (R-717 and R-718) which reduces global warming potential, and are not ozone-depleting
  • Absorption systems require a condenser, liquid receiver, expansion valve, and an evaporator, unlike compression systems which use a compressor
  • Compared to compression systems, absorption systems require more cooling water
  • Typical problems with absorption systems can include non-condensable gases, faulty purging (in the system), and issues with cooling water supply
  • Maintenance procedures include checking pulleys, belts, oil in vacuum pumps, cleaning strainers and traps, and checking pump oil levels and lubrication

Learning Objectives

  • Describe basic absorption systems, comparing them to compression systems
  • Explain the operation of ammonia and lithium bromide absorption refrigeration systems
  • Describe the components of an absorption system, including heat exchangers and bypass, pump motor lubrication, and purging systems
  • Describe startup and shutdown procedures for absorption refrigeration systems
  • Explain typical problems and resolutions related to these systems
  • Understand crystallization and dilution in absorption refrigeration systems

Chapter Introduction

  • Absorption refrigeration systems use heat energy instead of mechanical energy
  • This reduces electrical energy consumption, permitting the use of low-cost heat sources
  • Ammonia and lithium bromide systems are the two primary types

Objective 1

  • Basic absorption systems differ from compression systems, as they do not include a compressor.
  • Absorption systems use a liquid absorbent that removes refrigerant vapor, a high-pressure generator to evaporate the refrigerant, and a pump to move the concentrated absorption solution
  • The factors involved in choosing an absorption system include waste heat availability, and the economics of the cooling requirement

Objective 2

  • In ammonia absorption systems, water acts as the absorbent
  • The system circulates refrigerant (ammonia) through an evaporator, absorber, condenser & generator
  • Heat from a high-pressure source (steam, hot water) boils off the ammonia, leaving a weak solution

Objective 3

  • Lithium bromide (LiBr) absorption systems use water as the refrigerant, and a lithium bromide solution as the absorbent
  • These systems maintain an evaporator temperature of 4°C to 7°C (40°F to 45°F)

Objective 4

  • The solubility of a salt in water depends on its temperature; a higher temperature can dissolve more salt
  • This principle is crucial in preventing crystallization, where the amount of dissolved salt exceeds solubility limits at a lower temperature

Objective 5

  • The major parts and systems of an absorption system include heat exchangers, bypass systems, and pump motor lubrication and cooling, as well as purging systems
  • Understanding the functions of the heat exchanger bypass and purging system is vital

Objective 6

  • Describing the steps involved in the startup and shutdown procedures of absorption systems
  • This will involve understanding the actions of various pumps, valves, and cooling and steam systems
  • Following manufacturer's guidelines is essential

Objective 7

  • Maintenance is critical to keep the system running smoothly
  • Cleaning and regular checks are essential
  • This includes verifying mechanical components, pumps, valves, etc for proper operation and to prevent leaks
  • Preventive maintenance includes pulley and belt checks, cleaning, ensuring proper oil levels and lubrication, and cleaning of critical mechanical parts
  • Regular cleaning of strainers and trap elements is essential
  • Checking refrigerant levels and adding octyl alcohol at intervals as required is essential

Objective 8

  • Troubleshooting includes identifying potential causes, like non-condensable gases, issues with cooling water, or insufficient concentrations of chemical compounds (like octyl alcohol)
  • Potential problems in absorption units include decreased capacity, crystallization, issues involving the startup, and operational problems with crystallization at shutdown, safety interlocks and malfunctions
  • Correct resolutions for each of these potential causes are outlined

Chapter Summary

  • Advantages of absorption refrigeration systems versus compression systems, focusing on cost-effective heat sources and environmental impact
  • Describing how ammonia and lithium bromide systems differ and explain their specific uses

Knowledge Exercises (Questions and Answers)

  • These provide specific exercises for students to practice identifying components, understanding the processes, and diagnosing maintenance issues.

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