Comprehensive investigation of numerical methods in simulating a steady-state vapor compression system

Computer simulation has become a required tool in the design phase of vapor compression systems; however with relatively few exceptions most simulations focus on the basic four component systems. With an increasing focus being placed on energy efficiency, the simulation of multi-component vapor compression systems (having multiple evaporators, condenser or compressors) will become essential to assist in the design of these more complicated systems. The implementation of a component-based framework will facilitate the simulation of multi-component systems. This paper describes three algorithms used to simulate a component-based vapor compression system. A test matrix of 6174 sample runs covering a wide range of operating conditions was constructed to determine the robustness and speed of each method when using three different types of nonlinear equation solvers. Each method was tested by simulating a basic four component cycle and a more advanced multiple evaporator system. The results are presented in such a format as to describe the reasons that contribute to any instability of the solvers and the computational efficiency of each method is discussed.