Thermoeconomic optimization of vapor-compression refrigeration systems

This study deals with the thermoeconomic optimization of vapor compression refrigeration systems and investigates the first law of thermodynamic aspects along with the cost terms. In this regard, mass and energy balance equations for the system components are written, and cost parameters are incorporated into the model. Some selected parameters in the analysis are (i) condenser temperatures between 25degreesC and 60degreesC and (ii) evaporator temperatures between -5degreesC and -20degreesC. The efficiencies of the compressor, condenser, evaporator, and electric motor are studied as the decision variables with the cost parameters. The applicability of the model is then verified with an illustrative example for an actual R-134a vapor-compression refrigeration system. (C) 2004 Elsevier Science Ltd.