skip to main content
OSTI.GOV title logo U.S. Department of Energy
Office of Scientific and Technical Information

Title: Mathematical model and experimental validation of a rock bed regenerative cooler

Conference · · Proc. Annu. Meet. - Am. Sect. Int. Sol. Energy Soc.; (United States)
OSTI ID:6541316

A study was made of the fuctional characteristics of a rock bed regenerative indirect evaporative cooling system (RBR). The study was divided into two portions: the first dealing with the experimental investigation of the thermodynamic behavior of the system and the second with the development of a mathematical model for simulating performance. Indirect evaporative cooling systems based on rock beds for heat exchange and/or storage are technically feasible for regions that do not require dehumidification of outdoor air for comfort. The mathematical model used for the simulation tracks the experimental data, thus providing the system designer with a valuable tool. The rock bed regenerative cooling system offers a viable alternative to the expensive air condition unit and to the comfort limited evaporative cooler for providing comforting conditions. It also offers an operating savings potential in both the electrical demand and consumption compared with mechanical refrigeration and, therefore, a cost savings under current electrical rates in the proposed new demand rate charges.

OSTI ID:
6541316
Report Number(s):
CONF-800604-P2
Journal Information:
Proc. Annu. Meet. - Am. Sect. Int. Sol. Energy Soc.; (United States), Vol. 3.1; Conference: American section of the International Solar Energy Society conference, Phoenix, AZ, USA, 2 Jun 1980
Country of Publication:
United States
Language:
English