Simulation of vapour-compression heat pumps

Abstract

A vapour compression heat pump simulation model has been developed to predict the overall performance of a system by employing a simple model for the components of the heat pump cycle - namely, the compressor, condenser and evaporator. Operating conditions, such as compressor speed, heat source and heat sink temperatures, cooling and heating fluids flow rates, are entered as input data. Predetermined empirical parameters that characterize the components, such as the polytripic index of compression and heat exchangers' overall conductances, are also entered as input data. Predicted results were compared with experimental data. A typical application is presented at the end of the paper.