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Refrigeration System
Design for Makkah
University

Submitted By
Ibrahim Ahmad Farran (441007273)
Abdulmajeed Hezam Almajnuni (442002116)
Mohand alhumaydan (443010073)
Mohanad saad alhazmi (443001505)

Submitted To
Dr. Abdullah Ali Al-Zahrani
Abstract
With severe climatic conditions and high demands for cooling in the city, Makkah needs a design
approach for 3000TR refrigeration. It should combine energy efficiency with reliability and
sustainability to meet all cooling loads efficiently. The intensive cooling load demand of the huge
facility, whether a hotel, shopping center, mosque, or commercial building, needs to be
considered. Given Makkah's hot and arid climate, the system design incorporates advanced
cooling technologies, optimized heat exchangers, and efficient refrigerants to enhance
performance and reduce operational costs. This paper discusses the major design parameters,
such as heat load calculation, refrigerant selection, system configuration, and energy
optimization techniques. A vapor compression refrigeration system with centrifugal chillers is
selected based on its efficiency and reliability for large-scale cooling applications. Moreover,
absorption chillers are discussed as a viable sustainable option for utilizing waste heat and
minimizing electricity consumption. Cooling towers, thermal storage solutions, and advanced
control systems are integrated into the system to optimize its performance. Low GWP with zero
ODP refrigerants are used for environmental sustainability. It only focuses on international
environmental standards. In the report, energy-efficient materials are used: variable frequency
drives, heat recovery systems, and smart monitoring technologies to enhance system
performance and reduce power consumption. The design methodology combines thermodynamic
analysis, computational modeling, and real-world feasibility assessments to create a highly
efficient, cost-effective, and environmentally friendly refrigeration system. The final system
design ensures optimal cooling performance, reduced energy costs, and long-term sustainability,
making it well-suited for Makkah's demanding climatic and operational conditions.
Table of Contents
Abstract............................................................................................................................................1

Introduction to the Refrigeration.....................................................................................................4

Principle of Refrigeration............................................................................................................4

Types of Refrigeration System....................................................................................................5

Mechanical Refrigeration (Vapor Compression Cycle)...........................................................5

Absorption Refrigeration.........................................................................................................5

Thermoelectric Refrigeration...................................................................................................6

Cryogenic Refrigeration..........................................................................................................6

Applications of Refrigeration..................................................................................................6

Assumptions for the Refrigeration System of 3000TR Capacity in Makkah..................................7

Climatic and Environmental Assumptions..................................................................................8

Cooling Load Assumptions..........................................................................................................8

Assumptions on the Type and Configuration of Refrigeration System.......................................9

Refrigerant Selection Assumptions..............................................................................................9

Assumptions Regarding Energy Efficiency and Sustainability.................................................10

Water Usage and Cooling Tower Considerations......................................................................10

System Reliability and Maintenance Assumptions....................................................................11

Safety and Compliance Assumptions.........................................................................................11

Vapor Compression Cyle...............................................................................................................12

Stages of VCC...........................................................................................................................12

Compression (Isentropic Compression Process)...................................................................12

Condensation (Isobaric Heat Rejection Process)...................................................................13

Expansion (Isenthalpic Expansion Process)..........................................................................13

Evaporation (The Isobaric Heat Absorption Process)...........................................................13

Thermodynamic Representation of VCC......................................................................................14

Applications of Vapor Compression Cycle............................................................................14

Vapor Absorption Cycle.................................................................................................................15

Working Principle of VAS.........................................................................................................15

Types of VAS.............................................................................................................................16

LiBr-H2O (Lithium Bromide-Water) System:.......................................................................16

Water-Ammonia (NH₃-H₂O) System:..................................................................................16

Advantages of the VAS..............................................................................................................17

Limitations of the VAS..............................................................................................................17

Application of the VAS..............................................................................................................18

Vapor Compression Cycle Calculations........................................................................................18

Calculations for the VAS...............................................................................................................20

Conclusion.....................................................................................................................................24
Introduction to the Refrigeration
Refrigeration is generally defined as removing heat from space or a solution to lower it and keep
that space or material at a certain temperature below its surroundings. Through this technology,
food preservation comes into play besides air conditioning use in medical as well as industrially.
Referring to recent times, safe storage of goods, comfort and indoor climate development, and
several scientific and industrial developments have largely been made easier through
refrigeration. The principle underlying refrigeration is based on the Second Law of
Thermodynamics, which states that heat flows naturally from a region of higher temperature to a
region of lower temperature. However, during refrigeration processes, it breaks this natural
tendency by using external energy to shift heat from the cooler region to the warmer one. This
requires a mechanical or chemical process to extract heat from a substance and expel it
elsewhere, thereby maintaining the desired low temperature. The efficiency and effectiveness of
refrigeration depend on various factors, including the choice of refrigerants, the type of system
used, and the specific application requirements.

Principle of Refrigeration
At its essence, refrigeration is based on the transfer of heat energy. The procedure entails
removing heat from a low-temperature environment and transferring it to a high-temperature
environment. This is accomplished using a working fluid known as a refrigerant, which changes
phases (from gas to liquid and back to gas) within a closed-loop system. The refrigeration cycle
uses the refrigerant's qualities to efficiently absorb and release heat. The most common
refrigeration cycle is the vapor compression cycle, which consists of four major components: the
compressor, condenser, expansion valve, and evaporator. The compressor raises the pressure and
temperature of the refrigerant gas, which flows to the condenser, where it releases heat and
condenses into a liquid. The high-pressure liquid then flows through the expansion valve, where
it experiences a significant pressure decrease and cools rapidly. Finally, the low-pressure
refrigerant enters the evaporator and absorbs heat from the chilled compartment, chilling it. This
procedure is repeated continually to keep the temperature low.
Types of Refrigeration System
The type of refrigeration system available can vary by its application, though there are a few
commonly applied types: mechanical refrigeration, absorption refrigeration, thermoelectric
refrigeration, and cryogenic refrigeration.

Mechanical Refrigeration (Vapor Compression Cycle)

Mechanical refrigeration is the most applied type and works on the vapor compression cycle.
Household refrigerators, air conditions, and industrial cooling systems use most forms of this
mechanism. The cycle consists of four basic components: compressor, condenser, expansion
valve, and evaporator as discussed before. Mechanical refrigeration is very efficient and is
widely used in different applications, such as domestic refrigeration and industrial cooling.
Among these systems, the choice of refrigerant plays a very crucial role because of the different
thermal properties and effects on the environment that various substances may have.
Traditionally, CFCs and HCFCs were widely used as refrigerants, but they have largely been
replaced due to their damaging effects on the ozone layer, which has seen HFCs and other
environment-friendly alternatives becoming increasingly popular.

Absorption Refrigeration
Absorption refrigeration is unlike mechanical refrigeration because it does not rely on a
compressor to circulate the refrigerant. Instead, a heat-driven process is utilized, making it
suitable for applications involving waste heat or alternative energy sources such as solar energy
or natural gas.

In an absorption refrigeration, a liquid refrigerant is absorbed by a second fluid usually water,

this makes a solution. This solution is heated, which leads to the evaporation of refrigerant,
causing it to separate from the absorbent. Then, the vapor of refrigerant is condensed and
expanded and passes into the evaporator. Inside the evaporator, the vapor absorbs heat from the
cooling space. When this happens, the cycle ends by reabsorbing the refrigerant back into the
absorbent solution in order to repeat the process again. Absorption refrigeration is applied in
most industrial applications, gas-powered refrigerators, and large buildings air conditioning
systems. It is also used in places where electricity is scarce because it can operate on heat energy
instead of electrical power.
Thermoelectric Refrigeration
Thermoelectric refrigeration is based on the Peltier effect, which is defined as the phenomenon
by which an electric current can be used to create a temperature difference across two distinct
types of materials. In a thermoelectric module, running electrical current between two sides
results in the cooling and absorption of heat on one side and the rejection of heat on the other
side. Cooling can be effective and noise-free without the use of moving parts or refrigerant.
Thermoelectric refrigeration, though less efficient than vapor compression systems, is more
beneficial in specialized applications. It is applied in small-scale cooling systems such as
portable coolers, medical storage devices, and electronic component cooling. This technology is
highly valued for reliability, compactness, and its ability to function in environments where
traditional refrigeration systems may not be practical.

Cryogenic Refrigeration
Cryogenic refrigeration is a process that involves cooling substances to extremely low
temperatures, below −150°C or −238°F. It is used in scientific research, medical applications,
and industrial gas liquefaction. The use of cryogenic cooling for the storage of biological
samples, preservation of organs for transplantation, and maintaining superconducting materials at
low temperatures is very significant. Cryogenic refrigeration usually depends on liquefied gases,
like liquid nitrogen or liquid helium, which absorb heat as they evaporate. The application ranges
from space exploration and high-energy physics experiments to specialized medical treatments,
including cryosurgery.

Applications of Refrigeration
Refrigeration has become a constituent part of the modern world and is used in various
industries. Some of the most significant uses of refrigeration include:

 Food Preservation: Refrigeration slows down bacterial growth and enzymatic reactions,
which increase the shelf life of perishable foods. Commercial refrigeration systems are
used in supermarkets, restaurants, and food processing plants to maintain optimal storage
conditions.
 Air Conditioning: Referring to it, air-conditioning is technology based on the principles
of refrigeration that modifies indoor temperatures with humidity levels as a measure
 towards comfort and good health. All homes, offices, and most vehicles, but especially
those of extreme climatic regions, really need air-conditioning.
 Medicines and Pharmaceuticals: Proper storage of medicines and other highly sensitive
drugs depend on refrigeration. Medical storage facilities such as hospitals and
pharmaceutical research laboratories employ precise cooling means to store specimens
and biological products for medicine storage.
 Industrial & Chemical Processing: Most industrial processes require cooling equipment,
materials preservation, and chemical reaction control. Refrigeration is used in petroleum
refining, plastic manufacturing, and semiconductor production.
 Transportation & Logistics: Refrigerated trucks, ships, and containers enable the global
transportation of perishable goods, including fruits, dairy products, and seafood. Cold
chain logistics ensure that food and medical supplies are safe and effective during long-
distance shipping.

Refrigeration is one of the core technologies that have totally changed the way humans store
food, maintain comfort indoors, and carry on their industrial and medical processes. Different
refrigeration systems, such as mechanical, absorption, thermoelectric, and cryogenic methods,
have been developed to further expand the applications of this technology in numerous sectors.
With continuous innovations in refrigerants, energy-efficient designs, and alternative cooling
methods, the efficiency and sustainability of refrigeration become more prevalent. As technology
changes, the environmental friendly refrigerant is being moved towards natural refrigerants, solar
powered cooling and advanced insulation. The future advancements will further help improve the
efficiency and accessibility of refrigeration technology to remain pertinent in modern times.

Assumptions for the Refrigeration System of 3000TR Capacity in

Makkah
In the design of a 3000-ton refrigeration (TR) system for Makkah, several assumptions in terms
of climatic conditions, load calculations, system components, refrigerant selection, operational
efficiency, and sustainability are considered. Makkah is known for extreme temperatures during
summer, so the system is designed to face high cooling demand with energy efficiency and
reliability. The following assumptions provide a comprehensive basis for the design and
operation of the refrigeration system effectively.

Climatic and Environmental Assumptions

Arid desert climate The high temperature would often exceed more than 45°C (113°F)
sometimes at day when in the Makkah while considering peak designs temperatures of
refrigerator the ambient system conditions have included some degree variations from heatwaves
for which has taken to the account as around 50°C (122°F). The moisture contents are much
lesser but somehow would rise high with time change of the winters in Makkah. In designing the
refrigeration system, it is considered that the relative humidity will be about 30–50% affecting
the heat load and performance of the system.

As millions of visitors arrive in Makkah during Hajj and Umrah seasons, the cooling demand
will vary depending on the occupancy levels. Thus, the system must be designed with adequate
capacity to handle peak loads while at the same time having energy-saving strategies during off-
peak hours. Additionally, Makkah’s urban environment consists of dense infrastructure, which
can contribute to the urban heat island effect. This increases the cooling load as buildings absorb
and retain heat throughout the day. The system should account for these external thermal
influences, ensuring that adequate cooling is provided to offset the heat gain from surrounding
buildings and paved surfaces.

Cooling Load Assumptions

The load to be served by a 3000TR system must include various internal heat sources,

 Internal sources: People, lighting, and electronics are all internal heat sources and
significant contributors to the cooling load. It is assumed that each person contributes
approximately 400–500 BTU/hr to the cooling load given the high density of people in
Makkah's facilities such as hotels, mosques, and commercial centers.
 Solar heat gain: Direct and indirect solar radiation affects cooling loads, especially for
structures with large glass facades or inadequate shading. It is assumed that solar heat
gain contributes at least 20–25% of the total load.
 Ventilation and infiltration loads: Fresh air intake and infiltration of warm outside air
require additional cooling capacity. The system must be designed with adequate air
 handling units (AHUs) and heat recovery ventilation (HRV) to optimize energy
efficiency.
 Heat from equipment and appliances: Hotels, restaurants, and commercial buildings in
Makkah use extensive electrical and cooking appliances, adding to the cooling demand.
The refrigeration system should accommodate additional loads from refrigeration units,
computers, and kitchen equipment.

Given these factors, the estimated peak cooling load is around 3,000TR, ensuring that the system
can operate efficiently even during peak summer conditions. A safety margin of 10–15% is
incorporated to account for unexpected load variations.

Assumptions on the Type and Configuration of Refrigeration System

For massive cooling in Makkah, a central chilled water system is assumed as it would be the
most effective for cooling large loads. The system shall consist of:

 Water-cooled chillers. In high temperature areas, energy efficiency is improved as

compared to air-cooled chillers. Cooling towers, considering that ample space is available
for installation and maintenance.
 Primary and secondary chilled water loops to distribute cooling effectively across
multiple buildings.
 Variable frequency drives (VFDs) for pumps and compressors to optimize energy
consumption.
 Backup systems and redundancy to ensure continuous operation in case of equipment
failure.

Assume that the system uses a centrifugal chiller with a CoP of approximately 5.5 to 6.0, well
suited for large cooling applications. Chilled water will be provided from the chiller plant.

Refrigerant Selection Assumptions

The selection of the refrigerant is important for the efficiency of the system, environmental
compliance, and safety. Considering the international trend towards low-GWP refrigerants, it is
assumed that the system will be based on an HFO-based refrigerant, such as R-1234ze, which
has a low GWP and zero ODP. On the other hand, if regulatory provisions allow, it can be one of
R-134a or R-513A, however HFO-based refrigerants have preference for a sustainable long
period. The Refrigerant should able to work for longer periods even under high temperature
ambience, and there shouldn't be large degradations in pressure either.

Assumptions Regarding Energy Efficiency and Sustainability

Given that one of the issues associated with bulk refrigeration processes is energy, various
energy-conserving measures shall be assumed while designing:

 High-efficiency chillers with advanced compressor technology to reduce power

consumption.
 Thermal energy storage (TES) using chilled water tanks to shift cooling loads to off-peak
hours, reducing demand on the electrical grid.
 Smart building management systems (BMS) to monitor and optimize chiller
performance, air distribution, and cooling loads.
 Use of renewable energy, such as solar-assisted cooling, to supplement power
requirements. Makkah receives abundant solar radiation, making solar energy integration
a feasible option.

It is assumed that the system will be designed to achieve a power consumption of around 0.55–
0.65 kW/TR, aligning with international best practices for energy-efficient cooling.

Water Usage and Cooling Tower Considerations

Given that water is a scarce resource in Makkah, the refrigeration system must use water-
efficient cooling towers with water treatment and recycling systems. It is assumed that:

 Drift eliminators and water-saving technologies will minimize water wastage.

 Treated wastewater (gray water) or desalinated water will be used for cooling tower
makeup water.
 Adiabatic cooling methods may be integrated to enhance evaporative cooling efficiency.

The design will prioritize closed-loop systems where possible, reducing overall water
consumption while maintaining effective heat rejection.
System Reliability and Maintenance Assumptions
Given Makkah’s critical need for uninterrupted cooling, the refrigeration system must be
designed with high reliability and redundancy. Assumptions include:

 N+1 redundancy for critical components, ensuring that backup chillers, pumps, and
cooling towers are available in case of failures.
 Predictive maintenance strategies using IoT-enabled sensors to monitor system
performance and detect potential issues before failures occur.
 Availability of trained personnel for system operation and maintenance, ensuring that
repairs and optimizations can be performed efficiently.

Safety and Compliance Assumptions

The refrigeration system must comply with international safety and environmental standards,
including:

 ASHRAE 90.1 and ASHRAE 189.1 for energy efficiency.

 LEED certification for sustainability, assuming green building practices are followed.
 Saudi Building Code (SBC) and local regulations for mechanical systems.
 F-Gas regulations to minimize refrigerant leakage and emissions.
 Safety measures will include proper ventilation for mechanical rooms, fire suppression
systems, and emergency shutdown procedures in case of refrigerant leaks or equipment
failures.

Developing 3000 TR refrigeration plant for Makkah requires assuming a comprehensive scenario
that takes account of extreme climates, fluctuation in cooling requirements, energy savings,
refrigerants, water harvesting, and a reliable system, as the systems must be optimized to handle
peaking cooling demands with minimal loss to the environment and operational expense. The use
of advanced technologies, redundancy, smart controls, and sustainability in the design will
provide reliable, efficient cooling for Makkah's critical infrastructure. Such assumptions are the
basis for an optimized and resilient cooling solution to ensure performance and sustainability for
a long time under one of the world's most demanding environments.
Vapor Compression Cyle
The vapor compression cycle is the most common refrigeration cycle used in air conditioning,
domestic refrigerators, industrial cooling, and commercial refrigeration systems. This cycle
works on the principle of removing heat from a lower-temperature region and rejecting it to a
higher-temperature region by mechanical work. This cycle plays a very important role in food
preservation, industrial processes, and indoor climate control.

The vapor compression cycle is based upon the Second Law of Thermodynamics, which
establishes that heat transfers naturally from hot to cold regions. In the case of a refrigerator, the
heat has to be transferred contrary to this trend, from the colder space toward the warmer space.
This, of course requires external energy to be added at some point and is supplied in this case
through a mechanical compressor. The process involves four phases: compression, condensation,
expansion, and evaporation. These take place in four essential constituents- the compressor,
condenser, expansion valve, and evaporator.

Stages of VCC

Compression (Isentropic Compression Process)

The cycle begins in the compressor, where low-pressure, low-temperature refrigerant gas is
compressed to high-pressure, high-temperature gas. Uncompressing the refrigerant increases the
pressure, and hence the temperature, as is indicated by the ideal gas law. Energy is input to the
system at this step in the form of mechanical work, commonly provided by an electric motor or
an engine-driven compressor.

Key Compressor Functions

 Increases refrigerant pressure

 Raises the temperature of the refrigerant above the ambient temperature
 Ensures that the refrigerant is circulated through the cycle without interruption

The various types of compressors are used in vapor compression systems: reciprocating, rotary,
scroll, and centrifugal, depending on system size and application.
Condensation (Isobaric Heat Rejection Process)
The high-pressure, high-temperature refrigerant gas after compression enters the condenser
where it rejects heat to the environment and condenses into a high-pressure liquid. The condenser
is usually air-cooled using fans or water-cooled using cooling towers or a water loop.

Key Functions of the Condenser

 It removes heat from the refrigerant.

 It converts the refrigerant from a high-pressure gas to a high-pressure liquid.
 The phase of the refrigerant is a liquid before expansion.

Since heat rejection is at constant pressure, the process is known as isobaric heat rejection.
Condensed liquid refrigerant is now ready for subsequent expansion and cooling.

Expansion (Isenthalpic Expansion Process)

High-pressure liquid refrigerant flows through the expansion valve, often called the throttle valve
or capillary tube, resulting in an abrupt pressure reduction. This leads to a dramatic drop in
temperature due to partial evaporation caused by the Joule-Thomson effect.

Major Functions of Expansion Valve:

 Refrigerant pressure reduction

 Cooling the refrigerant due to the process of expansion and partial evaporation.
 Controls the amount of refrigerant entering the evaporator.

Types of expansion devices include thermostatic expansion valves (TXVs), electronic expansion
valves (EEVs), and capillary tubes, all functioning to control flow in an appropriate manner.

Evaporation (The Isobaric Heat Absorption Process)

The low-pressure, low-temperature refrigerant enters the evaporator and absorbs heat from the
refrigerated space or cooling load. This heat absorption leads the refrigerant to totally evaporate,
turning it into a low-pressure gas. The cooling effect occurs when the refrigerant extracts heat
from its surroundings while maintaining a constant temperature and pressure during evaporation.
Key Functions of the Evaporator:

Absorbs heat from the surrounding environment and cools the space.
Converts the refrigerant from a low-pressure liquid to a low-pressure gas.
Ensures that the refrigerant exits as a superheated vapor before entering the compressor.
Once the refrigerant has evaporated completely, it re-enters the compressor to begin the cycle
again.

Thermodynamic Representation of VCC

The vapor compression cycle can be represented by a Pressure-Entropy (P-h) diagram, which
clearly depicts the four processes:

 Compression: The refrigerant undergoes isentropic (constant entropy) compression,

which raises pressure and temperature.
 Condensation: The refrigerant releases heat at a constant pressure, condensing into a
liquid.
 Expansion: The refrigerant expands isenthalpic (constant enthalpy), causing a pressure
and temperature drop.
 Evaporation: The refrigerant absorbs heat at a steady pressure, evaporating back into a
gas.
These thermodynamic principles ensure that the cycle is efficient and can provide
adequate cooling.

Applications of Vapor Compression Cycle

The vapor compression cycle is utilized in:

 Residential and commercial air conditioning (split AC units, central HVAC systems).
 Refrigeration systems include domestic refrigerators, supermarket freezers, and cold
storage.
 Industrial refrigeration (chemical processing, food processing, and data centers).
 Cryogenic applications include low-temperature research and liquefied gas storage.

Its versatility and efficiency make it the favored cooling method for a wide range of industries.
The vapor compression cycle is the foundation of modern refrigeration and air conditioning
systems. It uses four main processes—compression, condensation, expansion, and evaporation—
to efficiently transfer heat and provide cooling. The cycle's efficiency and sustainability can be
enhanced by optimizing system components, refrigerant selection, and energy management
systems. With advances in refrigerant technology and energy-efficient designs, the vapour
compression cycle will continue to play an important role in climate control, food preservation,
and industrial uses around the world.

Vapor Absorption Cycle

An alternative refrigeration cycle to the widely utilized Vapor Compression Cycle (VCC) is the
Vapor Absorption System (VAS). VAS is ideal for applications where waste heat, solar energy, or
other low-grade heat sources are available since it uses a thermal energy-driven process rather
than a mechanical compressor to circulate the refrigerant. In industrial cooling, air conditioning,
and refrigeration applications where sustainability and energy economy are crucial factors, the
vapor absorption system is commonly utilized.

VAS drives the refrigeration cycle using a thermal energy source (such as steam, hot water, or
natural gas) as opposed to VCC, which depends on electrical energy to run a mechanical
compressor. The absorption principle, which is the foundation of the system, states that a
refrigerant is absorbed into a suitable liquid and then separated by heating. While ammonia-
water systems are utilized for lower-temperature refrigeration, the most popular working pair in
VAS is water as the refrigerant and lithium bromide (LiBr) as the absorbent for air conditioning
applications.

Working Principle of VAS

It follows a similar cycle as that of the vapor compression cycle, replacing the compressor by an
absorber and a generator. The important steps involved in the cycle are as follows:

 Evaporation: The refrigerant, usually water in LiBr systems or ammonia in ammonia-

water systems, absorbs heat from the cooling load and evaporates at low pressure and
temperature. This process takes place in the evaporator, and the cooling effect is
generated as it absorbs the heat from the surrounding air or liquid.
  Absorption: In the absorber, the low-pressure refrigerant vapor is absorbed by a
concentrated solution of absorbent. Water vapor is absorbed by LiBr in lithium bromide
systems forming a concentrated solution. Ammonia is absorbed into water, forming a
strong ammonia-water solution in ammonia-water systems. As the refrigerant is absorbed,
the pressure in the evaporator remains low, allowing continuous evaporation and heat
absorption.
 Heat Addition and Regeneration (Generation Process): The generator is supplied with
heat (from steam, hot water, natural gas, or waste heat), which raises the temperature of
the refrigerant-absorbent solution. This heat input causes the refrigerant to boil off from
the solution, separating it as a high-pressure refrigerant vapor. The remaining weak
solution (absorbent) is sent back to the absorber to continue the cycle.
 Condensation: The high-pressure refrigerant vapor enters the condenser, where it
releases heat to the surroundings and condenses into a high-pressure liquid. The
condensation process is similar to that in the vapor compression cycle, as it prepares the
refrigerant for expansion and cooling.
 Expansion: The liquid refrigerant goes through an expansion valve, lowering its pressure
and temperature before entering the evaporator.

This way, the refrigerant is in the best state to absorb heat in the evaporator, and the cycle
repeats.

Types of VAS
Depending on the application and working pair, there are two main categories of vapor
absorption systems:

LiBr-H2O (Lithium Bromide-Water) System:

 Mostly utilized for industrial cooling and air conditioning applications.
 Lithium bromide (LiBr) serves as the absorbent and water as the refrigerant.
needs cooling towers or other external cooling to remove extra heat from the condenser
and absorber.
 Due to the high boiling point of water at atmospheric pressure, it functions in a vacuum.

Water-Ammonia (NH₃-H₂O) System:

  Utilized in ice factories, cold storage, and industrial refrigeration applications requiring
low temperatures.
 Water serves as the absorbent and ammonia as the refrigerant.
 It is perfect for freezing applications because it can reach below-freezing temperatures.

Before condensation, the water content of the ammonia vapor is eliminated using a rectifier or
dephlegmator.

Advantages of the VAS

 Low Energy Consumption: As opposed to vapor compression systems that need large
amounts of electrical energy for the compressor, VAS utilizes waste heat, solar energy, or
steam, resulting in lowering electricity usage.
 Environmentally Friendly: Most VAS systems use natural refrigerants, such as water and
ammonia, so they result in zero ozone depletion potential (ODP) and lower GWP. No
synthetic refrigerants such as HFCs or CFCs are needed, which cause environmental
pollution.
 Quiet Operations: Vibration and noise will not be an issue since VAS does not use a
mechanical compressor, which makes it an ideal choice for noise-sensitive applications
like hospitals, hotels, and office buildings.
 Utilization of Waste Heat: Most industries waste heat from the power plants, industrial
boilers, and engines; these can be used to operate VAS in order to improve energy
efficiency overall.
 Long Service Life and Less Maintenance: Since VAS has fewer moving parts compared
to VCC, it has a longer operational life and requires minimal maintenance.

Limitations of the VAS

 Lower Coefficient of Performance (COP): The efficiency (COP) of VAS is less than
VCC. A LiBr-water system generally has a COP of 0.6–1.2, while the COP of a vapor
compression system can be as high as 3–6.
 Bigger System Size: VAS units are generally larger and heavier compared to vapor
compression systems for the same cooling capacity and require more space for
installation.
  External Cooling Required (for LiBr Systems): Lithium bromide absorption systems
require cooling towers to remove heat from the absorber and condenser, which adds to
installation and operational costs.
 Limited Performance in Fluctuating Heat Sources: VAS systems depend on a steady heat
supply, and performance may be affected if the heat source is inconsistent or fluctuating.

Application of the VAS

 Industrial Cooling: Industries with large excess heat generation employ it in the chemical
plant, refineries, and power plants.
 Air Conditioning: Massive cooling of large hotels, hospitals, shopping malls, and office
buildings in which waste heat is recoverable.
 Cold Storage and Food Processing: Ammonia-based systems are widely used for cold
storage warehouses, dairy processing, and meat preservation.
 Solar Cooling: Combined with solar thermal collectors, that helps provide air
conditioning in remote or off-grid locations.

The Vapor Absorption System (VAS) is an energy-efficient and ecologically friendly

refrigeration option that uses thermal energy rather than electrical energy. It is commonly
employed in industrial and commercial settings when waste heat or renewable energy sources are
available. While it has a lower COP than classic vapor compression systems, its benefits in terms
of energy efficiency, silent operation, and sustainability make it an attractive option for certain
cooling applications. As companies shift to more energy-efficient and environmentally friendly
cooling technologies, the use of VAS is likely to grow, particularly in large-scale and renewable
energy-integrating systems.

Vapor Compression Cycle Calculations

We choose Refrigerant R-134a for the analysis. Assuming the following operating conditions for
the R-134a 3000TR system in Makkah:

 For Condenser: Tin = 45⁰C, Tout = 40⁰C

 For Evaporator: Tin = 10⁰C, Tout = 15⁰C
 Cooling Load = QL = 3000TR = 3000*3.5167KW = 10550.1KW
From the thermodynamic table for R-134a:

h1 = 400KJ/Kg

h2 = 425KJ/Kg

h3 = h4 = 257KJ/Kg

The Cooling load formulas is:

QL = m (h1-h4) = 10550.1

So, mass flow rate is:

m = 10550.1/(400-257) = 73.78Kg/s

For Compressor:

The mass balance is as follow:

m1' = m2’

And by the energy balance:

Win = m2h2-m1h1= 73.78(425)-73.78(400) = 1844.5KW

For Condenser:

The mass balance is as follow:

m2' = m3’

And by the energy balance:

Qh = m3h3-m2h2= 73.78(425)-73.78(257) = 12395.04KW

So, the COP of the selected Vapor Compression System is as follow:

COP = QL/Win = 10550.1/1844.5 =5.72

Calculations for the VAS

The LiBr-H2O system is chosen for the analysis of the VAS system in Makkah under 3000TR
Refrigerant system project. Assuming the following conditions for the above refrigerant system:

 Temperature at Generator = 105⁰C

 Temperature at Absorber = 60⁰C
 Temperature at Condenser = 40⁰C
 At Evaporator: Tin = 10⁰C and Tout = 15⁰C
The calculation for the Enthalpies are as follow:

h1 = 2501 + 1.88Tg = 2501 + 1.88(105) = 2698.4Kj/Kg

h2 = h3 = 4.19(Tc) = 4.19(40) = 167.6 KJ/Kg

h4 = 2501 + 1.88(Te) = 2501 + 1.88*15 = 2529.2KJ/Kg

The Energy required at Evaporator is:

 QE = 10550.1KW = m (h4-h3) = m(2529.2-167.6)

So, the mass flow rate is:

m = 4.467Kg/s

The operating pressures are as follow:

Pc = Pg = Psat@40 = 7.3851KPa

Pe = Pa = Psat@15 = 1.7507KPa

From the Charts:

 Ta = 60⁰C, Pa = 1.7507KPa: 𝜀𝑤𝑠 = 0.625

 Tg = 105⁰C, Pg = 7.3851KPa: 𝜀s𝑠 = 0.685
 Pa = 1.7507Kpa, 𝜀𝑤𝑠 = 0.625: h6 = h5 = 160KJ/Kg
 Tg = 105⁰C, 𝜀s𝑠 = 0.685: h8 = h7 = 270KJ/Kg

The Mass Flow rate calculations are as follow:

𝝀=
εw 0.625
= =10.41
ε s−ε w 0.685−0.625

So, at the generator:

ms = 10.41*4.467 = 46.50147 Kg/s

And at the evaporator:

mws = (1+10.41)*4.467 = 50.97 Kg/s

So, at the generator:

Qgen = 46.50147(270) + 4.467(2698.4) -50.97(160) = 16453.95KW

At the absorber:

Qabs = 46.50147*270 +4.467*2529.2 + 50.97*160 = 15698.13KW

At the condenser:

Qc = 4.467*(2698.4-167.6) = 11305.084KW
The COP of the system is as follow:

COP = 10550.1/16453.95 = 0.6412

Conclusion
The design and analysis of two systems for a cooling load of 3000 TRs of the large scale VCRS-
Vapor Compression Refrigeration Cycle (VCRS) and VARS- Vapor Absorption Refrigeration
Cycle were designed and analyzed. Large cooling demands for a hot climatic condition as most
of the city has its maximum ambient temperatures well above 45°C due to the high requirements
for the cool air with such massive institutions. A comparative evaluation was conducted on the
VCRS and VARS based on the cooling efficiency, energy consumption, environmental impact,
and feasibility. The VCRS system used a mechanically driven compressor to circulate refrigerant
and showed good cooling efficiency with a COP of 5.69. Therefore, it would be suitable for
applications that need fast and constant cooling, like air conditioning in mosques, hospitals, and
universities. Additionally, VCRS is widely used due to its simplicity, availability of components,
and ease of maintenance. However, its major drawback is its high electricity consumption, which
can significantly increase operational costs, especially in a city like Makkah, where cooling
demand is constant throughout the year. Furthermore, compressor noise and vibrations may
require supplementary noise-reduction measures in sensitive environments like libraries and
research facilities.

Another concern with VCRS is its environmental impact due to the use of refrigerants with
global warming potential (GWP). The analysis utilized R-134a (with an ODP of zero but a GWP
of 1430), which, despite its effectiveness, has environmental drawbacks. More sustainable
refrigerants such as R-513A (GWP 573) or R-1234ze (GWP 6) can be considered to reduce the
system’s carbon footprint. Additionally, proper maintenance and leakage prevention are
necessary to minimize refrigerant emissions and ensure environmental compliance. On the other
hand, the VARS system operates without a mechanical compressor, instead using heat energy to
drive the refrigeration cycle. This allows it to utilize waste heat, solar energy, or natural gas,
significantly reducing electricity consumption. VARS is highly energy-efficient and
environmentally friendly, making it a suitable option for large-scale cooling applications where
excess heat is available, such as industrial plants, power stations, and solar-powered cooling
systems. Moreover, VARS operates silently, making it ideal for environments where noise
reduction is critical, such as hospitals, religious institutions, and high-end commercial buildings.

Despite these advantages, VARS has a lower COP (typically 0.6 to 1.2), making it less efficient
compared to VCRS (COP ≈ 5.69). This results in larger system sizes and higher initial
installation costs, making it less suitable for smaller applications. Additionally, the availability of
a continuous heat source is a critical factor in maintaining stable VARS operation, which may not
always be feasible, particularly outside industrial setups. However, in scenarios where waste heat
is abundant, VARS can be a cost-effective long-term solution that minimizes electricity
dependence.

From the analysis, it is evident that both refrigeration systems serve distinct purposes. VCRS is
more suitable for applications requiring high-speed, efficient cooling where electrical power is
accessible, whereas VARS provides an environmentally friendly alternative for large-scale
cooling in locations where waste heat or renewable energy sources can be leveraged. Given
Makkah’s climate conditions, high cooling demands, and the need for energy efficiency, a hybrid
approach—combining VCRS for immediate, high-efficiency cooling and VARS for energy-
efficient district cooling—would be the optimal solution. This approach would allow rapid
temperature control using VCRS while reducing energy costs and carbon emissions through
VARS, particularly by utilizing waste heat from power plants or solar thermal energy.
Implementing such a hybrid cooling system would ensure sustainable, cost-effective, and reliable
cooling for Makkah’s growing infrastructure, ultimately enhancing energy efficiency, minimizing
environmental impact, and ensuring long-term feasibility for large-scale cooling applications.