Refrigerator

CFD analysis of Refrigerator

In this study, a numerical analysis of a hybrid home refrigerator was performed. A CFD analysis was performed to determine the optimal location of the thermoelectric cooler installed in the refrigerator. As a result of CFD predictions, two new refrigerators, namely R-II and R-III, were created and investigated numerically.

Research Contribution

CFD predictions showed a more even distribution of air velocity and temperature inside the fresh food compartments of R-II and R-III compared to R-I. In addition, experimental measurements showed a significant increase in the energy efficiency of R-II and R-III. Their power consumption was almost identical and an improvement of up to 10% and 27% was observed at ambient temperatures of 15°C and 30°C compared to R-I. Regarding cooling time, no effect of TEC displacement was observed at 24V nominal TEC voltage

Work Performed

Some of the targeted goals we have achieved are as follows:

• Optimizing air movement in enclosed spaces by eliminating air recirculation zones.

• Energy savings through more efficient heating and/or cooling.

• Reducing the spread of bacteria by eliminating airborne bacteria through effective ventilation.

• Improving the level of thermal comfort for the employees and other staffs.

• Fast temperature regulation without large fluctuations.

The advantages and benefits of CFD have made it a very popular tool for the ventilation of confined spaces such as offices, industries, hospital rooms etc.