Dynamic evaluation of a vapor compression refrigeration cycle combined with a PCM storage tank for improving condenser performance

In this study, a vapor compression refrigeration cycle integrated with a phase change material (PCM) storage tank has been dynamically simulated over a 24-h period. The primary objective of this system is to reduce electric energy consumption during on-peak hours (12:00-19:00) and shift it to off-peak hours (1:00-10:00). During off-peak hours, the vapor compression refrigeration system stores cooling energy in the PCM storage tank. The stored cooling energy is then reused during on-peak hours to pre-cool the condenser inlet refrigerant, enhancing the cooling system's performance and reducing electric consumption during on-peak hours. Oleic acid, eutectic mixtures of 45 % capric acid and 55 % lauric acid by weight (CL), a commercial blend of salt hydrate and paraffin wax (SP224A), and CaCl2.6H2O have been selected as the PCM mediums. The effects of weather conditions and PCM storage tank parameters on the system's performance have been investigated. The results indicate that SP224A performs the best in most weather conditions. The maximum electric peak load shaving occurred under Ramsar city weather conditions, achieving 98.85 %. Additionally, the compressor's electric energy consumption is reduced by about 23.38 %. Moreover, increasing the length of PCM storage pipes leads to a reduction in compressor energy consumption during on-peak hours, as well as electric peak load shaving, with an improvement of up to 156 %.