A need exists for a rating methodology that will predict refrigerant mass flow rate through a suction-line/capillary-tube exchanger. The prediction will be based on capillary tube, suction line and connection geometry, properties of refrigerant, and operating conditions. The method will be applicable to any single-component refrigerant or azeotropic mixture. Important parameters involving fluid properties and operating conditions will be determined. The rating methodology will be represented in the form of rating charts and rating correlations. Development of a theoretical (i.e., first-principles') model is also included. The scope of this project includes both theoretical analysis and laboratory effort to validate the rating methodology.

The objectives of the project are as follows: 1) experiments with R134a and development for predicting the mass flow rate, 2) experiments with R-12, R-22, and R-6001 and development of a rating methodology of predicting the mass flow rate through the slct-hx for any single-component refrigerant or azeotropic mixture, 3) development of a first principles’ model for the prediction of mass flow rate, and 4) experiments with R-152a and verification (spot checks) of the simulation model and prediction methodology.

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