Adiabatic Absorption by Absorbent Atomization for Improving Absorption Heat Transformer Performance

Absorption heat transformers (AHTs) are a type of absorption heat pumps that are primarily driven by low-grade (typically waste) heat and produce higher temperature (high-grade) heat. Under the Indus3Es project, a 10 kW LiBr-H2O “Lab Scale” absorption heat transformer was built as a first experimental step toward larger scales. The focus was on the high-pressure vessel (HPV) (absorber and evaporator) design. To enhance performance, the aim was to obtain complete adiabatic absorption prior to the main absorption process accompanied by heat transfer. This maximizes the temperature within the absorber. This is particularly beneficial for absorption heat transformers, compared to chillers, because obtaining an elevated temperature is the objective. To obtain adiabatic absorption, atomizing spray nozzles were used as the liquid absorbent distribution system. This method proved successful; complete adiabatic absorption was obtained before the droplets contacted the absorber heat exchange surfaces. However, the spray nozzles must be supplied with pressurized liquid and are potentially more delicate than alternative liquid distribution systems. Therefore, future work may focus on determining the required atomization level to avoid excessive pressures and nozzle requirements.