The optimal performance of an irreversible absorption refrigerator

A new model is presented for an irreversible absorption refrigerator, in which not only the irreversibilities of heat conduction but also the irreversibilities resulting from the friction, eddy and other irreversible effects inside the working fluid are considered. The influence of these irreversible effects on the performance of an absorption refrigerator with continuous flow is investigated. The relation among the optimal refrigeration coefficient, cooling rate and overall heat-transfer area of the refrigerator is derived. Some new bounds are determined and some significant problems are discussed. The conclusions obtained here are of importance to the optimal design and performance improvement of an absorption refrigerator.