Authors: Clito Afonso

In this work, a classic vapour compression refrigeration system for cooling pressurized drinks was monitored with temperature and pressure sensors placed in strategic points. In the laboratory, with the data obtained from consumption in surveys, two situations were analysed: a restaurant and a bar in the summer situation. In the same way, in view of the results obtained, it was possible to carry out simulations in order to improve the performance of the system. An assessment is made of the operation of the refrigeration cycle. An energy survey of the system was carried out and the COP’s were calculated. It was found that the COP of the overall system was significantly lower than the COP of the refrigerating machine itself. The influence of the ice mass required for the cooling of the beverages was also analysed. It was concluded that the initial ice mass established by the manufacturer (25 kg), which led to a higher energy consumption, was not necessary. If the system is switch off when there are no drinks consumption, savings in the electrical consumption are expected as well as a decrease in the CO2 emissions.

Clito Afonso
Department of Mechanical Engineering Portugal (DEMec), University of Porto, Portugal