Electrolux Refrigerator (Vapour Absorption Refrigeration Cycle Test Rig)
An Electrolux (3-fluid) absorption refrigerator for studying the vapour absorption refrigeration cycle without a pump.
Overview
The Electrolux (Servel) Refrigerator is a pump-free three-fluid vapour absorption refrigeration system using ammonia as the refrigerant, water as the absorbent, and hydrogen as the inert pressure-equalising gas. Heat applied to the generator drives ammonia vapour into the condenser, from where it flows to the evaporator and absorbs heat before being re-absorbed in the absorber. Students study the operating principle, measure temperatures at key components, calculate COP, and understand why this system is used in noiseless, vibration-free applications such as hotel room refrigerators and remote off-grid cooling where no electricity is available.
Specifications
| Refrigerant | ammonia (R717) |
| Absorbent | water |
| Inert gas | hydrogen |
| Heat input | electric heater, 100 to 300W |
| Evaporator temperature | -5 to 5 degrees C |
| COP | 0.1 to 0.3 (approx.) |
| Temperature sensors | thermocouples at all sections |
| Power supply | 220V AC, 50 Hz |