Performance enhancement of a vapor compression cooling system: an application of POE/Al2O3

WOS:000740442600001In this experimental study, the results of utilizing a nano-lubricant in place of compressor work fluid in a refrigeration system were examined. R134a refrigerant was utilized in the refrigeration system. Polyol ester (POE) was used as a base fluid and a nano-lubricant prepared from alumina oxide (Al2O3) nanoparticles was utilized. The experiments were carried out separately with nano-lubricants created by mixing Al2O3 nanoparticles in the ratios of 0.5% and 1.0% into POE oil. Additionally, 0.5% triton X-100 (TX-100) surfactant was utilized in the nano-lubricant in order to ensure a homogeneous dispersion in the suspension. As a result of the experiments, the highest coefficient of performance (COP) value for the cooling system was obtained at the concentrations of 0.5% Al2O3 and 0.5% TX-100. In the experiments with pure POE oil, the COP value was increased by 18.27%. The power value drawn by the compressor was reduced by 12.53% at the concentrations of 0.5% Al2O3 and 0.5% TX-100