Citation

Kumar, K. Senthil and Vasanthi, R. and Shakir, Mustafa and Munimathan, Arunkumar and Manirathnam, A. S. and Alam, Mohammad Mukhtar and Rajendran, Parvathy and Lee, It Ee (2025) Experimental investigation to enhancing the energy efficiency of a solar-powered Visi cooler. Scientific Reports, 15 (1). ISSN 2045-2322

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Abstract

Refrigeration methods in secluded regions are a major issue for sustaining the quality of perishables like vaccines and food. Traditional refrigeration systems, including kerosene and gas-powered units, often suffer from interruptions in the supply of fuel. Additionally, they do not satisfy the stringent criteria set by the World Health Organization (WHO) Performance, Quality and Safety (PQS) system requirements. While solar-powered refrigeration is an alternative, existing systems heavily rely on battery storage, which increases maintenance, costs, and limits system lifespan. This study analyses the operational efficiency of a solar-powered VISI cooler with a DC compressor-based refrigeration system, adding and omitting phase change materials (PCM). The experimental findings demonstrate that incorporating PCM significantly enhances energy efficiency by reducing average power consumption from 48 to 40 W. This decreased power consumption increases suction pressure by 0.13 bar and decreases compressor output pressure by 0.76 bar. These improvements aid in optimised thermal regulation which lowers dependency on conventional energy storage methods. The research indicates the role of collaborative partnerships between governments, research bodies, and technology developers aimed at fostering sustainable and innovative peak-shaving refrigeration solutions geared towards off-grid systems.

Item Type:	Article
Uncontrolled Keywords:	DC compressor, Solar panel, Energy, Efficiency, PCM
Subjects:	T Technology > TK Electrical engineering. Electronics Nuclear engineering > TK9001-9401 Nuclear engineering. Atomic power
Divisions:	Faculty of Engineering (FOE)
Depositing User:	Ms Suzilawati Abu Samah
Date Deposited:	30 Jun 2025 03:31
Last Modified:	30 Jun 2025 03:31
URII:	http://shdl.mmu.edu.my/id/eprint/14153

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