Solar powered intermittent absorption refrigeration unit

The study investigated and evaluated the feasibility of an absorption refrigeration unit on solar power. Its effectiveness as a viable refrigeration option for use in household refrigerators or as an energy efficient and environmentally friendly alternative to conventional refrigerated air conditioning units used in the offices are evaluated. A prototype model that is capable of producing a temperature change in the evaporator was designed, fabricated and tested. A parabolic solar trough was used as a source of heat gain. The model utilized the technology of an intermittent absorption refrigeration system. The performances and effectiveness of the unit was studied by determining refrigeration effect (RE), coefficient of performance (COP) and explaining operational issues of the unit. The ultimate goal in the long term would ideally be to reduce the consumption of electricity used for refrigeration and air conditioning, hence saving money and reducing the stress on our electricity generation and distribution networks.