https://doi.org/10.15255/KUI.2024.048
Published: Kem. Ind. 74 (5-6) (2025) 235–249
Paper reference number: KUI-48/2024
Paper type: Review
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An Overview of Techniques for Enhancing the Performance of Refrigeration Systems

D. O. Bolaji, B. O. Bolaji, K. A. Bello, T. O. Ogundana, O. T. Oginni and O. A. Oyelaran

Abstract

Enhancing the efficiency of refrigeration and air conditioning systems contributes to more energy-efficient buildings and yields significant environmental benefits. Technological innovation has been a key driver in improving the performance of refrigeration systems. This article reviews tested strategies for optimising the performance of air conditioning and refrigeration systems, which remain among the most energy-intensive end uses in both residential and non-residential buildings. It reveals that the search for alternatives to ozone-depleting and high-global-warming refrigerants during this transitional period should focus not only on environmentally friendly refrigerants but also on those that are energy-efficient and possess a higher coefficient of performance than the refrigerants they replace. In addition, the potential benefits of retrofitting should be examined as a means of improving system performance. While the installation of new systems may be required to achieve superior environmental control and energy performance, such an approach often entails a high initial cost. Nevertheless, it may ultimately prove to be the most cost-effective solution over the equipment’s lifespan. This article explores two prominent applications of nanotechnology that can enhance heat transfer in refrigeration systems. Other cutting-edge technologies, such as the use of ejectors, internal heat exchangers, and cascade systems are discussed for their capacity to significantly improve system performance. Overall, this work offers a comprehensive assessment of viable methods for enhancing the performance of air conditioning and refrigeration equipment, providing valuable insights for researchers in the field.

This work is licensed under a Creative Commons Attribution 4.0 International License

Keywords

energy consumption, energy efficiency, nanorefrigerant, performance enhancement, refrigeration system