THERMODYNAMIC ANALYSIS OF SOLAR THERMAL HEAT INPUT IN HVACR CLIMATE CONTROL SYSTEMS

This paper analyzes the thermodynamic performance of solar thermal heat input in HVACR (Heating, Ventilation, Air Conditioning, and Refrigeration) systems for large office and laboratory buildings. As energy demands rise, solar-assisted HVACR systems provide a sustainable solution to enhance energy efficiency. The study focuses on a configuration with two 500 L puffer tanks connected to a 3000 L Thermal Energy Storage System (TESS), utilizing direct integration during the cold season and indirect integration via an adsorption chiller in the hot season. Dynamic simulations assess key performance indicators, including solar fraction and overall system efficiency, under varying solar radiation and building load profiles. Results highlight the potential for significant energy savings and improved climate control in large-scale buildings, emphasizing the critical role of thermal energy storage in optimizing system performance throughout the year. The research conducted on the experimental platform at Institute of Multidisciplinary Research for Science and Technology (ICSTM) has identified the regimes and scenarios in which this approach can be considered both economically and technically viable.