Simulation and optimization of novel control methods for improving field operation of absorption chiller ice storage system

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Absorption chillers are devices that make use of a heat source to drive a cooling/refrigeration process. These systems are attractive as they can be driven from unconventional energy sources like waste heat, heat recovered from cogeneration, or solar thermal heat, making them ideal for use in district trigeneration systems and decentralized locations. Ammonia-based absorption chillers are unique since they are capable of producing ice, which if stored and managed correctly can act as a buffer to integrate mismatched time-varying heat sources and cooling loads, thus increasing energy system efficiency. Despite these benefits, these systems are seldom used in practice since little is known regarding their part-load performance and operability. The current project aims to develop novel methods and technologies for improving the current state-of-the-art in ammonia-based absorption chiller systems. Two distinct yet complementary approaches will be used. The first approach involves numerical system modelling to optimize thermodynamic efficiency, component sizing, control strategies, and cost. The second approach involves the design, testing, and prototyping of a novel real-time PID controller gains optimizer for the system. Two highly skilled PhD students will carry out this work over the course of four years in collaboration with Canada-based industry partner Thermalfrost Intl. Inc., a current global market leader in commercial-scale thermal chillers. The researchers will provide intellectual property to Thermalfrost via model development and implementation of their findings in next generation devices. Since Thermalfrost chillers are mainly powered by waste and renewable heat sources, large-scale implementation of this technology will play an active role in reducing energy consumption and related GHG emissions in the Canadian cooling sector. The research undertaken in the current project will help train graduate students and extend the numerical analysis capabilities at Carleton University. The anticipated outcomes of the project (i.e. journal/conference publications, intellectual property development) will further scientific knowledge in the field of absorption refrigeration and assist in attracting new business opportunities for Thermalfrost.