A simple lumped parameter model is established to inves¬tigate the performance of a solar-powered adsorption air-conditioning system driven by flat-type solar collectors. The dynamic performance of a continuous adsorption cycle using a double adsorber along with heat recovery is measured in terms of the temperature histories, gross solar coefficient of performance, and specific cooling power. Also, the influences of some important design and operational parameters on the performance of the system are studied. The study shows that the adsorbent mass and lumped capacitance have a significant effect on the system performance as well as on the system size. Simulation results indicate that the effect of the overall heat transfer coefficient is not predominant if the cycle duration is longer. Also, there exists an optimum time to initiate the heating of the adsorbent bed and the number of cycles that can be performed in a day’s operation.

Units: SI