A Simulation Model for CO2 Solar-Assisted Heat Pumps
Abstract
Heat pumps are a widely spread kind of thermal machine used to provide heating. This kind of system has to be adapted to the new requirements related to environmental impacts of its working fluids. Several countries already restricted the use of non-environmental friendly fluids and stablished deadlines for the end of their use. Carbon dioxide is a suitable option since it is a natural substance, with low greenhouse impact and null ozone depletion potential. Considering this scenario, a steady state simulation model was developed and a parametrical analysis is presented for a heat pump with carbon dioxide as working fluid on a transcritical compression cycle. The gas cooler works as a counterflow heat exchanger that provides hot water for domestic consumption. In the low pressure side, a flat-plate solar collector improves heat absorption of the system enabling a more compact design. Simulation results are presented as a function of working parameters for some selected situations.