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U.S. Department of Energy
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Pinch-point analysis: An aid to understanding the GAX absorption cycle

Conference ·
OSTI ID:87472
; ; ;  [1]
  1. Battelle, Columbus, OH (United States). Thermal Systems Dept.
The generator-absorber heat exchange (GAX) cycle is an absorption heat pump cycle that appears to offer the best potential for an efficient, gas-fired absorption heat pump for residential applications. The GAX cycles under development use the same ammonia-water working fluids and have many of the same components and functions as previous gas-fired absorption air conditioners, but with increased heat recovery and a higher coefficient of performance (COP). The distinguishing feature of the GAX cycle is the unique way that heat recovery is accomplished within the cycle. In this paper, the authors show how a pinch-point analysis technique can be applied to illustrate the operation of a GAX cycle and to highlight its capabilities. Pinch-point analysis, while not commonly used in the heating, ventilating, and air-conditioning (HVAC) industry, is commonly used in the chemical process industries, where internal heat recovery is a key aspect of process design.
OSTI ID:
87472
Report Number(s):
CONF-950104--
Country of Publication:
United States
Language:
English