PROCESS PARAMETER OPTIMIZATION IN DOMESTIC REFRIGERATORS: A TAGUCHI METHOD APPROACH

Abstract This study introduces a novel hydrocarbon refrigerant mixture (HCM), specifically 64:36 R290:R600a by mass, as a viable alternative to the widely used R134a in domestic refrigerators. Despite its zero Ozone Depletion Potential (ODP), R134a's high Global Warming Potential (GWP) of 1300 necessitates the development of more environmentally friendly options. Hydrocarbons, with their significantly lower GWP values (typically less than 20), present a promising solution, particularly for the Indian domestic refrigeration market, which still heavily relies on R134a.Our investigation began with exploratory experiments to define the working ranges of key parameters, with Coefficient of Performance (COP) as the primary response variable. We selected evaporator temperature, condenser temperature, capillary tube length, and refrigerant mixture ratios as the input parameters. Recognizing a gap in the existing literature regarding systematic experimentation and statistical analysis, we utilized Taguchi's L25 design of experiments. This approach allowed us to efficiently conduct experiments and pinpoint the most influential process parameters. Following the analysis, a confirmation test was performed to validate the predicted results from the Taguchi technique. Preliminary observations indicated an increase in evaporator temperature with extended operation time and increased capillary tube coil length. This research contributes valuable data towards the adoption of low-GWP refrigerants in domestic cooling systems.