Thermodynamic investigation of a booster-assisted ejector refrigeration system

In order to improve performance of ejector refrigeration system, a booster is added before an ejector to enhance secondary flow pressure, which is called a booster assisted refrigeration system. Based on mass, momentum and energy conservation, a 1D model of ejector for optimal performance prediction was presented and validated with experimental data. A detailed study of working characteristics of the booster assisted ejector refrigeration system was carried out and compared against conventional ejector refrigeration system and compressor based refrigeration system, on the basis of first and second laws of thermodynamics. Effects of booster outlet pressure on COP th based on thermal energy and COP w based on work input, and also on entrainment ratio and area ratio of ejector were studied. The exergy destruction rates were also computed and analyzed for components of the booster-assisted ejector refrigeration system. Ways to reduce exergy destruction were discussed.