Energy performance assessment of R430A as a possible alternative refrigerant to R134a in domestic refrigerators

In this work, the energy performance of a domestic refrigerator has been assessed theoretically with R134a and R430A as alternative refrigerant. The performance has been assessed for three different condensing temperatures, specifically, 40, 50 and 60 degrees C with a wide range of evaporator temperatures between -30 and 0 degrees C. The performance of the domestic refrigerator was compared in terms of volumetric cooling capacity, coefficient of performance, compressor power consumption and compressor discharge temperature. Total equivalent global warming impact of the refrigerator was assessed for a 15-year life time. The results showed that volumetric cooling capacities of R430A and R134a are similar, so that R134a compressor can be used for R430A without modifications. The coefficient of performance of R430A was found to be higher than that of R134a by about 2.6-7.5% with 1-9% lower compressor power consumption at all operating temperatures. The compressor discharge temperature of R430A was observed to be 3-10 degrees C higher than that of R134a. Total equivalent global warming impact of R430A was found to be lower than that of R134a by about 7% due to its higher energy efficiency. The results confirmed that R430A is an energy efficient and environment-friendly alternative to R134a in domestic refrigerators. (C) 2013 International Energy Initiative. Published by Elsevier Inc. All rights reserved.