Experimental analysis of the R290 variable geometry ejector with a spindle

The aim of this work was to experimentally analyze the variable geometry gas ejector with a spindle designed for operation with the natural working fluid propane (R290). The performance of the ejector was evaluated based on the mass entrainment ratio and critical temperature, being the most crucial parameters for optimizing the cooling capacity in ejector refrigeration systems, as well as the ejector efficiency using common literature notation. Additionally, local pressure drop measurements allowed for the determination of pressure profiles inside for different spindle positions used for capacity regulation. The experimentally defined ejector efficiency curves demonstrated the ability to control the ejector capacity by means of the spindle, irrespective of the unfavorable operating conditions. By decreasing the effective throat area using spindle, the ejector mass entertainment ratio increased by 35%. Spindle movement allowed for the decrease of the motive nozzle flow rate by up to 65%, while still maintaining the suction of the secondary flow of the ejector. Moreover, the behavior of a slight increase in suction nozzle flow with a decrease in motive nozzle flow has been observed for the initial movement of the spindle followed by a huge drop for further reduction of the effective throat area, confirming the previous conclusions shown in the literature. • Experimental analysis of R290 variable geometry ejector with spindle. • Global and local ejector performance parameters were defined for 7 spindle positions. • Spindle allowed ejector capacity control, regardless of unfavorable operating conditions. • Spindle movement decreased the motive mass flow rate, maintaining ejector suction. • Initial spindle movement confirmed flow rates behavior presented in literature.