Development and testing of a PCM enhanced domestic refrigerator with use of miniature DC compressor for weak/off grid locations

Abstract

This paper presents the development of a sustainable and affordable domestic refrigerator for rural areas where grid setting is weak or non-existent. The refrigerator uses a miniature refrigeration unit based on a micro direct current (DC) compressor, which can adjust its speed according to photovoltaic output variation with solar radiation intensity, in order to maximize cooling production. The experimental investigation aims to define the cooling capacity management of the refrigerator through the use of phase change materials (PCMs). PCM packs in the fridge are charged during the period of high solar radiation and, afterward, melting of PCM releases cooling to maintain a cold temperature for extra hours when solar radiation is low or not available. The paper presents the design and construction of an experimental refrigerator with a miniature refrigeration unit of a finned tube heat exchanger for the fridge cabinet; PCM selection and, particularly, the effect of heat transfer enhancement at the condenser are discussed. Lab-scale tests were carried in the UK and field tests were carried out in Ghana in a collaboration project. In lab-scale tests, it is found that a condenser modification can decrease the transient power consumption by up to 26%. In contrast, the field-testing results show that the daily power consumption can be reduced only from 0.9 to 0.84 kWh. Additionally, field testing results show that the cabinet temperature of the PCM-enhanced refrigerator rose from 7°C to 11°C after a period of 5 hr power outage.