Performance prediction of a solar/gas driving double effect LiBr-H2O absorption system

This paper presents the performance prediction of a solar/gas driving double effect LiBr H2O absorption system. In order to use auxiliary energy more effectively and be less dependent on solar irradiation, a new kind of solar/gas driving double effect LiBr-H2O absorption system is designed. In this system, the high-pressure generator is driven by conventional energy, natural gas, and solar energy together with water vapor generated in the high-pressure generator, which supplies energy to the low-pressure generator for a double effect absorption system. The temperature of hot water supplied to the low-pressure generator is close to 90 degreesC. Apart from refrigeration in summer, this system also supplies space heating in winter and hot water throughout the year for family daily use. Simulation results illustrate that this kind of system is feasible and economical. Economic evaluation of several systems is also given in this paper in order to get a clear knowledge of the energy consumption of the system. (C) 2004 Elsevier Ltd. All rights reserved.