An exergetic analysis of R22 substitution

This paper deals with the substitution of R22 in an experimental vapour compression plant with the most widely used drop-in substitute, i.e. the zeotropic mixture R407C. A comparative exergetic analysis, carried on with experimental tests, has been presented. The experimental tests are performed in a vapour compression plant working with water and air as secondary fluids in the condenser and in the evaporator, respectively. The overall exergetic performance of the plant working with R22 is consistently better than that of its candidate substitute. The performance of the individual components of the plant has been analysed, in order to pinpoint those contributing most to the decrease in the exergetic performance of R407C.