GROUP NO:A1 EXP NO:2

ENT 4252 REFRIGERATION AND AIR CONDITIONING

Heating Cycle Operation

NAME : M.L.K Nilupul

REG NO : TG/2018/308
COURCE UNIT : ENT-4252
DATE : 2023.10.20
Introduction
The basic principle of refrigeration involves the transfer of heat from a region of lower temperature (the
substance or space being cooled) to a region of higher temperature (the surrounding environment). This is
typically achieved through the use of a refrigeration cycle, which is a four-stroke process that includes
compression, condensation, expansion, and evaporation.

The refrigeration cycle works as follows:

1. The compressor compresses the refrigerant gas, increasing its pressure and temperature.
2. The hot, high-pressure refrigerant gas then flows to the condenser, where it rejects heat to the
surrounding environment and condenses back into a liquid.
3. The liquid refrigerant then flows through the expansion valve, where it expands and its pressure and
temperature drop.
4. The cold, low-pressure refrigerant liquid then flows to the evaporator, where it absorbs heat from the
refrigerated space and evaporates back into a gas.

The refrigeration cycle is repeated continuously to maintain the refrigerated space at a desired temperature.
In a heat pump, the reversing valve is used to change the direction of refrigerant flow in the refrigeration
cycle. This allows the heat pump to operate in either heating or cooling mode.

During the heating cycle, the reversing valve is energized, which causes it to switch the indoor and outdoor
heat exchangers. The indoor heat exchanger then acts as the condenser, and the outdoor heat exchanger acts
as the evaporator. This reverses the direction of heat flow, so that the heat pump absorbs heat from the
outdoor air and transfers it to the indoor space.
Objective
• The fundamental components and typical cycle are employed in various air conditioning systems,
including those with a reverse cycle feature.
• The fundamental electrical control system of air conditioning units incorporates a reverse cycle.

Procedure
Manual valves MV1, MV2, MV3, and MV6 were opened, while manual valve MV4 and MV5 were closed.
The ELCB and MCB were turned ON. The Mode Switch ware set to the Heating Position, and the
Local/Remote Selector Switch was positioned to LOCAL. Following this, the Main Power Switch was turned
ON. Indoor and Outdoor Heat Exchanger fan switches were activated, with the fan speed was adjusted to the
Max position. The thermostat set point was set at 30ºC, ensuring that the ambient temperature was below
30ºC. If the ambient temperature was equal to or above 30ºC, the ambient simulation was set to winter. The
refrigerant flowmeter switch was switched ON, and the system was allowed to run for approximately 10
minutes. During this time, observations were made on the compressor, and relevant data was recorded.

Upon stopping the system, the Mode Switch was set to the Fan Position, and the refrigerant flowmeter switch
was switched OFF. Indoor and Outdoor Fan Switches were then turned OFF, with the fan speed was set to
the Min position. The Main Power Switch was turned OFF, followed by turning OFF the MCB and ELCB
respectively. Subsequently, all equipment was returned to their respective places, and the working area was
cleaned up.
Observations

Components Functions Measuring Points

• To compress the refrigerant gas. This • Suction Pressure / PG1

increases the pressure and temperature of • Discharge Pressure / PG2
the gas. • Suction Temperature /T1
• To increase the temperature of the ºC
Compressor refrigerant gas. This is necessary for the • Discharge Temperature /
refrigerant to condense in the condenser. T2 ºC
• To increase the pressure of the refrigerant • Refrigerant Flowrate
gas. This is necessary for the refrigerant to
flow through the system.
• To condense the refrigerant gas. This • Condenser (Outdoor Heat
decreases the pressure and temperature of Exchanger)
the gas, causing it to turn into a liquid. • Inlet Temperature / T3
• To remove heat from the refrigerant. This • Condenser (Outdoor Heat
Condenser heat is transferred to the surrounding air or Exchanger)
water, and it is what cools the refrigeration • Outlet Temperature / T4
system. • Ambient Temperature / T8
• To reduce the pressure of the liquid • Suction Pressure / PG1
refrigerant. This causes the refrigerant to • Discharge Pressure / PG2
evaporate, which absorbs heat from the • Expansion Inlet
surrounding environment. Temperature / T5
Expansion Valve • To control the flow of refrigerant into the
evaporator. This ensures that the
evaporator is not flooded with liquid
refrigerant, which would reduce its
efficiency.
 • Absorbs heat from the surrounding • Evaporator (Indoor Heat
environment. This is the main function of Exchanger)
the evaporator, and it is what cools the • Inlet Temperature / T6
environment. • Evaporator (Indoor Heat
• Evaporates the liquid refrigerant. The Exchanger)
refrigerant evaporates at a low temperature, • Outlet Temperature / T7
and the heat that is absorbed is what cools • Refrigerant Flow rate
Evaporator the environment.
• Reduces the pressure of the refrigerant. This
is necessary for the refrigerant to
evaporate.
• Cools the refrigeration system. The
refrigerant absorbs heat from the
surrounding environment and then
evaporates. This evaporation process cools
the refrigerant and the refrigeration system
itself.

Table 1: Identified Components of the Refrigeration Cycle

Measuring Points Reading Unit

Suction Pressure / PG1 3.1 Bar

Discharge Pressure / PG2 11.6 Bar
Suction Temperature /T1 ºC 15.1 Celsius
Discharge Temperature / T2 ºC 56.1 Celsius
Refrigerant Flow rate 1.7 lpm

Table 2: Pressure and Temperature Measurements of compression process

 Measuring Points Reading Unit

Evaporator (Indoor Heat Exchanger)

43.0 Celsius
Outlet Temperature / T6
Evaporator (Indoor Heat Exchanger)
46.1 Celsius
Inlet Temperature / T7
Table 3: Pressure and Temperature Measurements of evaporation process

Measuring Points Reading Unit

Suction Pressure / PG1 3.5 Bar

Discharge Pressure / PG2 11.5 Bar

Expansion Inlet Temperature / T5 32.9 Celsius

Table 4: Pressure and Temperature Measurements of expansion process

Measuring Points Reading Unit

Condenser (Outdoor Heat

13.5 Celsius
Exchanger) outlet Temperature / T3
Condenser (Outdoor Heat
14.9 Celsius
Exchanger) Inlet Temperature / T4
Ambient Temperature / T8 30 Celsius

Table 5: Temperature Measurements of evaporation process

 Refrigerant State
Observation Points
Vapor Mixed Liquid
(Green) (Green/Yellow) (Yellow)

SG1 – Suction Line ✓

SG2 – Discharge Line ✓

SG3 – Liquid Line ✓

SG4 – Accumulator Inlet Line ✓

Table 6: Refrigerant State

Theory
The theory of refrigeration and air conditioning systems extends beyond cooling and encompasses both
cooling (refrigeration) and heating cycles. It is founded on the fundamental thermodynamic principle of
phase change, which dictates that when a substance undergoes a phase change from a liquid to a vapor, it
absorbs heat, and when it changes from a vapor to a liquid, it releases heat.
 1. Compression: In the compressor, low-pressure refrigerant vapor (state 1) is energetically compressed
to become a high-pressure vapor (state 2). This process necessitates work input to the refrigerant,
represented as:
W in = (h2 – h1) m
2. Condensation: The high-pressure vapor (state 2) proceeds to the condenser, where it releases heat to
the surrounding environment, causing it to transition into a high-pressure liquid (state 3). This phase
change releases heat to the surroundings, and the heat rejected by the condenser is given by:
Q L (condenser) = (h1 – h4) m
3. Expansion: The high-pressure liquid (state 3) then passes through an expansion valve, leading to a
reduction in both pressure and temperature. This process, which doesn't involve any work input, is a
key element of the heating cycle. The work done on the refrigerant during expansion (W expansion)
is typically negligible if the expansion valve is simple and adiabatic.

4. Evaporation: The low-pressure, low-temperature liquid-vapor mixture (state 4) enters the

evaporator, where it absorbs heat from the surrounding environment or the substance to be heated.
This absorption of heat leads to the refrigerant turning into a low-pressure vapor (state 1), as
expressed by:
Q H (evaporator) = (h2 – h3) m

The Coefficient of Performance (COP) is a key parameter used to measure the efficiency of both the cooling
and heating cycles in a refrigeration and air conditioning system. It is defined as the ratio of the heat
transferred (cooling or heating effect) to the work input (compressor work). For the heating cycle, the COP is
a measure of how efficiently the system can provide heating:
COP (Heating) = Q H (Evaporator) / W in
This COP indicates the effectiveness of the system in transferring heat from the surroundings (or an external
source) into the space or substance being heated. In the heating cycle, a COP greater than 1 signifies that the
system is more energy-efficient for heating applications.
Calculation
Practical PH chart to the heating cycle

ℎ1 = 420 kJ /kg
ℎ2 = 442 kJ /kg
ℎ3 = ℎ4 = 250 kJ /kg

Refrigerant flow rate = 1.7 l/min = 0.03 kg/s

• Q L (condenser) = (h1 – h4) m

Q L = (420 – 250) *0.03

Q L = 5.1 kW
 • Q H (evaporator) = (h2 – h3) m

Q H = (442 – 250) *0.03

Q H = 5.76 kW

• Work in = (h2 – h1) m

Work in = (440 – 420) *0.03

Work in = 0.6 kW

• COP (Heating) = Q H (Evaporator) / W in

COP = 5.76/ 0.6
COP = 9.6

Ideal Refrigeration Cycle,

Absolute pressure 1 = PG1 + Atmospheric pressure
= 3.1 + 1.013
= 4.1 Bar

Absolute pressure 2 = PG2 + Atmospheric pressure

= 11.6 + 1.013
= 12.6 Bar
Obtained following enthalpy values from PH chart,

h1 = 408 kJ /kg
h2 = 430 kJ/kg
h3 = h4 = 262 kJ/kg

Refrigerant flow rate = 1.7 L/min = 0.03 kg/s

• Q L (condenser) = (h1 – h4) m

QL = (408 – 262) *0.03

QL = 4.38 kW
 • Q H (evaporator) = (h2 – h3) m
Q H = (430 – 262) *0.03
Q H = 5.04 kW

• Work in = (h2 – h1) m

Work in = (430 – 408) *0.03

Work in = 0.66 kW

• COP (Heating) = Q H (Evaporator) / W in

COP = 5.04/ 0.66
COP = 7.63

Discussion

1.
2.

Ideal refrigeration cycle The practical cycle

h1 408 kJ /kg 420 kJ /kg

h2 430 kJ /kg 442 kJ /kg

h3 = h4 262 kJ /kg 250 kJ /kg

COPR 7.63 9.6

QH 5.04kW 5.76kW

QL 4.38kW 5.1kW

W in 0.66kW 0.6kW

3.

1) Rotary Screw

Air compressors fall into two main categories based on how they operate: positive displacement and
dynamic. Positive displacement options, like rotary screw compressors, provide a constant flow regardless of
outlet pressure. In a rotary screw machine, this happens by a pair of screws rotating in opposite directions to
compress air in a sealed chamber.

One of the biggest advantages of a rotary screw compressor is that it can operate continuously as long as you
need it to. They’re also highly durable, often outlasting other types by a couple of years or more. As a result,
they’re ideal for prolonged heavy-duty use, like powering jackhammers or sand-blasting operations.

The main downsides to rotary screw compressors are their price and maintenance needs. They’re often more
expensive than other positive displacement options and require more care, so smaller operations may want an
alternative.

2) Reciprocating

Another positive displacement option is the reciprocating, or piston, compressor. As the name implies, these
use pistons to compress and displace air within their chamber. These are among the most powerful
compressors for home use, making them a popular choice.

While rotary screw compressors can produce more power overall, reciprocating options can generate a lot
with low energy consumption. They’re also more compact than rotary screw machines, making them better
for shorter, more flexible jobs. This low energy consumption and portability make piston compressors an
appropriate choice for powering hand tools.
However, these compressors produce more heat and noise than other displacement machines, so they’re not
ideal for extended continuous use. For many construction jobs, that’s not an issue, but they may not be the
right choice for heavier machinery.

3) Scroll

The third main type of positive displacement compressor is the scroll compressor. These machines use two
circular scrolls, one that stands still and another that turns inside it to compress air. This design results in
fewer moving parts and reduced vibrations, leading to improved longevity.

Scroll compressors produce the cleanest air according to ISO standards. As a result, construction jobs or
companies that have to adhere to higher environmental standards may want to use these machines. They're
also versatile, operating at various intensity levels.

While quiet and easy to maintain, scroll compressors don’t produce the most power. Heavy-duty tools and
machinery may require a different type of compressor, but more passive applications are ideal for these.

4) Centrifugal

Unlike the first three entries on this list, centrifugal compressors are dynamic. That means they draw air in
from the outside rather than using a closed reserve of air. In a centrifugal machine, that happens thanks to a
rotor called an impeller spinning inside a cylinder to force air inside.

Some centrifugal machines use multiple stages to increase pressure, delivering more power. Multi-stage
compressors can deliver remarkable horsepower, making them ideal for powering heavier equipment. Like
rotary screw compressors, these machines can also operate continuously, suiting them to longer jobs.

Centrifugal compressors are also highly affordable compared to similar-horsepower alternatives. However,
their reliance on fast-moving parts makes them more prone to issues like stalling or choking.

5) Axial

Axial compressors are another type of dynamic machine. Instead of using an impeller, these use rows of fan
blades within a shaft. As air passes through each row, its velocity gradually increases, leading to higher
pressure.

These compressors are typically smaller and lighter than their centrifugal counterparts and operate at higher
speeds. This lets them provide constant flow rates at high volumes, but often with less pressure than
alternatives. You’ll often find them in pumping applications, thanks to their consistency and energy
efficiency.

Axial compressors are a key part of jet engine designs, but in construction, you’ll find them in pumping or
electricity generation. Overall, though, these are rarer on construction sites, thanks to their high costs.
4. State the function of the check valve used in the cycle and draw a diagram to indicate
the valves operation during the cycle.

The check valve in a refrigeration cycle serves two main functions:

1) To prevent the backflow of refrigerant when the compressor is stopped.
2) To maintain a pressure difference between the high-pressure and low-pressure sides of the system.
The check valve is typically installed between the compressor and the condenser. When the compressor is
running, the check valve opens and allows the refrigerant to flow into the condenser. When the compressor is
stopped, the check valve closes to prevent the refrigerant from flowing back into the compressor.
1. Inlet 6. Diaphragm
2. Valve body 7. Starting point
3. Filter 8. Guide rod
4. Valve seat 9. Endpoint
5. Magnetic stripe 10. Diaphragm base

In the cooling cycle, the refrigerant flows from the compressor to the condenser through the check valve. The
check valve opens when the pressure of the refrigerant on the high-pressure side of the system is greater than
the pressure of the refrigerant on the low-pressure side of the system.
When the compressor is stopped, the pressure on the high-pressure side of the system decreases. The check
valve then closes to prevent the refrigerant from flowing back into the compressor.
The check valve is an important component of the refrigeration cycle. It helps to ensure that the system
operates efficiently and safely.
• The check valve is a one-way valve, which means that it only allows the refrigerant to flow in one
direction.
• The check valve is typically a spring-loaded valve, which means that it is held closed by a spring. The
spring is overcome by the pressure of the refrigerant when the compressor is running.
• The check valve is typically installed in a horizontal position, with the arrow on the valve pointing in
the direction of refrigerant flow.

5.

Condenser and Evaporator Cleaning:

Neglecting the maintenance and cleaning of the condenser and evaporator coils can lead to a host of issues
that significantly impede the performance and efficiency of an air conditioning system. Both the condenser
and evaporator coils play pivotal roles in the heat exchange process of the system. The condenser is
responsible for releasing heat to the external environment, while the evaporator absorbs heat from the interior
space. Over time, these coils can accumulate dust, dirt, and debris, creating insulating layers that hinder the
transfer of heat. Routine maintenance and cleaning procedures are essential to prevent these obstructions.
Neglecting this maintenance can lead to reduced cooling or heating efficiency, higher energy consumption,
and potentially costly repairs. Cleaning involves removing accumulated debris, which may require using
appropriate cleaning agents and tools to ensure optimal heat exchange.
Environmental Considerations:

The operation and efficiency of air conditioning (AC) systems, particularly those employing a general cycle
air conditioning trainer, can be notably influenced by a variety of environmental factors. These factors
include temperature, humidity, air quality, ventilation, and more. Temperature affects the cooling or heating
load on the system, while humidity levels can impact the system's ability to dehumidify the air. Poor air
quality can result in clogged filters, affecting air circulation and indoor air quality. Adequate ventilation is
crucial for ensuring the supply of fresh air and removing indoor pollutants. Therefore, when designing,
installing, and maintaining AC systems, one must consider the local environmental conditions to optimize
performance and energy efficiency.

Understanding the Refrigeration Cycle:

Comprehending the intricacies of the refrigeration cycle and the intricate interplay among its components can
pose a formidable challenge, especially for those new to the field of air conditioning and refrigeration. This
cycle involves a series of thermodynamic processes that allow the system to transfer heat effectively,
providing cooling or heating as needed. Visual aids, diagrams, and animations can serve as invaluable tools
for conveying the complexities of this cycle. These visual aids help learners visualize the movement of
refrigerant through the system, phase changes, pressure differentials, and how each component, such as the
compressor, condenser, expansion valve, and evaporator, contributes to the overall process. A solid
understanding of the refrigeration cycle is fundamental to diagnosing and troubleshooting issues, maintaining
the system, and optimizing its performance

[Link]
Prek, M. (2004). Environmental impact and life cycle assessment of heating and air conditioning systems, a
simplified case study. Energy and Buildings, 36(10), 1021-1027.
[Link]

Shah, V. P., Debella, D. C., & Ries, R. J. (2008). Life cycle assessment of residential heating and cooling
systems in four regions in the United States. Energy and buildings, 40(4), 503-513.
[Link]

Pandelidis, D., Anisimov, S., & Worek, W. M. (2015). Performance study of the Maisotsenko Cycle heat
exchangers in different air-conditioning applications. International Journal of Heat and Mass Transfer, 81,
207-221. [Link]
Conclusion:
This experimental study provided us with a practical and hands-on comprehension of the vapor compression
heating refrigeration cycle. Our objectives were met through the utilization of the refrigeration system. By
closely observing this system, we successfully identified its primary components and their essential functions
within the refrigeration cooling cycle. Moreover, the experiment yielded invaluable data concerning the
heating cycle, encompassing critical parameters such as compressor suction and discharge pressure,
compressor inlet and outlet temperatures, condenser inlet and outlet temperatures, among others. These
observations were diligently recorded in the designated section of our study.

Ideal refrigeration cycle The practical cycle

h1 408 kJ /kg 420 kJ /kg

h2 430 kJ /kg 442 kJ /kg

h3 = h4 262 kJ /kg 250 kJ /kg

COPR 7.63 9.6

QH 5.04kW 5.76kW
QL 4.38kW 5.1kW

W in 0.66kW 0.6kW