The performance of a cool storage system in various operation conditions and its economic analysis

In this study, a cool storage tank integrated into a refrigeration system is investigated economically in various operation conditions. Cool energy was stored in ice around polyethylene pipes, which were located in a tank filled with water. Ethylene glycol water solution was circulated in the polyethylene pipes. Stored energy related to ice and water masses and electricity consumption of the system were measured at every hour for 8 hours for different values of the volumetric flow rate of the ethylene glycol water solution, namely 20, 30, 40, 50 l/min and three different ambient temperatures, namely 17, 24, 31 degrees C. In the experimental study, it was found that more energy was stored for the 50 l/min case, rather than the other flow rates, and the performance of the system increased when the environment temperature decreased. Two systems with and without a cool storage tank, which met cooling demand of the two environments, namely an office and a residence, were also compared separately and cost analysis was carried out. The cost analysis showed that usage of the system with cool storage tank for the residence was more economical than the office.