Short Summary
Feasibility of
Solar Fired, Compressor Assisted Absorption Chillers
James Bergquam
99-15
EISG Project Title: Feasibility of
Solar Fired, Compressor Assisted Absorption Chillers
EISG Grant Number: 99-15
PIER Area: Building End-Use Efficiency
Principal Investigator: James Bergquam
Contact Information: (916) 383-9425 sac74496@saclink.csus.edu
Organization: Bergquam Energy
Grant Amount: $75,000
Grant Term: 18 Months
Project Description: The purpose of this project is to research the feasibility of improving the performance and reducing the cost of solar heated absorption chillers by incorporating a small vapor compressor into the design. Candidate vapor compressors will be identified and tested. This project targets small to medium sized commercial buildings with cooling loads up to 100 tons.
Proposed Outcomes:
· An improved design for single and double effect solar heated absorption chillers that will reduce their operating temperatures below 140 deg F and 250 deg F respectively.
· Identification of off-the-shelf compressors or specifications for a custom compressor that will perform the required function.
Anticipated Benefits:
· Reduce the cost of the systems by eliminating the need for high pressure components that are required for systems operating above 250 deg F.
· Reduce system payback period from 8 years to under 5 years.