Combined absorption power and refrigeration cycles using low- and mid-grade heat sources

This article presents several combined absorption cycles proposed for the simultaneous and/or alternative production of power (mechanical or electrical) and refrigeration. The cycles are classified into two groups according to their driving heat source temperature range as low-grade (<200 degrees C (392 degrees F)) and mid-grade (<300 degrees C (572 degrees F)) combined absorption cycles. The thermodynamic performance of these cycle configurations were evaluated based on energetic and exergetic performance criteria that consider the thermodynamic quality of their useful outputs in both performance criteria. One particularly interesting application of such types of cycles could be the efficient utilization of solar thermal collector installations throughout the year to produce variable amounts of electricity and cooling according to a given building demand to minimize the consumption of primary energy.