Experimental evaluation of a single-stage heat transformer used to increase solar pond's temperature

A heat source at temperatures not higher than 80 degreesC was used to simulate the heat input to an absorption heat transformer from a solar pond. An experimental absorption heat transformer operated with the water/Carrol mixture was used to demonstrate the feasibility of these systems to increase the temperature of the heat obtained from the solar ponds. Carrol(TM) is a mixture of LiBr and ethylene glycol [(CH2OH)(2)] in the ratio 1:4.5 by weight. Flow ratios, gross temperature, useful heat, and coefficients of performance are plotted for the heat transformer versus temperature and solution concentration. Gross temperature as high as 50 degreesC were obtained. The maximum temperature of the useful heat produced by the heat transformer was 132 degreesC. The COP for the unit was in the range 0.14-0.36. (C) 2000 Elsevier Science Ltd. All rights reserved.