Abstract
Objectives.The aim of the study is to develop a cyclic absorption refrigerator unit that implements technology for producing cold from solar radiation energy. Its distinctive feature comprises a highly developed solar receiving unit, consisting of two parallel-connected absorber generators whose reactors are installed in individual heat-insulated “hot box” cabinets. Method. The geometric characteristics of the absorber generator are based on the calculations of the optical and heat energy efficiency of the device models. Results. The physicochemical characteristics of activated carbons (AC) of various production are studied. The absorption capacity of the following working pairs is determined: AC-ammonia, AC-methylamine, AC-ethylamine. The calculated coefficients for the Dubinin-Radushkevich structural equations are obtained. An experimental solar energy refrigerator unit is tested using a working pair of AC-ammonia in an open test area. The operability of the upgraded device is proven. Exergetic coefficient dependencies are determined according to the developed software algorithm based on a simplified thermodynamic cycle. The areas of possible application and use of solar power refrigerator units with the studied working pairs are determined. Conclusion. The increased unit efficiency consists in the optimal layout of all elements of the absorber generator, including the reactor, two flat mirror concentrators, a thermal substrate, a reduced internal air space volume, a double-glazed window made of two sheets of glass and a calculated thickness of heat-insulating Ripor foamed polyurethane.