Simulation and Techno-Economic Investigation of Solar Assisted Single-Effect Water-Lithium Bromide Absorption Chiller

Solar energy is a renewable and crucial form of energy for many natural processes on the Earth. The application of solar energy to provide hot water، heating and cooling of residential area has been considered in Iran in recent decades. In this paper، simulation and techno-economic investigation of a single-effect water-lithium bromide solar absorption chiller in Isfahan climate is presented. A single effect absorption chiller with a capacity of 19 kW (5 tons of refrigeration)، providing cooling for a 200 m2 residential area is proposed. Maximum energy required for cooling such a building is 17 kW، which occurs in July. The daily occupancy schedule is considered between 7a. m. and 7p. m. and the cooling schedule is considered between May 1st to September 30th. At low solar radiation، the system operates with the energy stored in the storage tank and with an auxiliary heater. Economic results show that the evacuated tube collector with total absorber area of 30m2 is the best option in this plant. This system in comparison to a similar capacity direct-fired absorption chiller will save 895 m3 of natural gas per year.