Steady state refrigeration

In summary, steady-state refrigeration occurs when a refrigerator is turned on and removes as much heat from the cold region as leaks back in from the environment. The compressor work is usually constant but the efficiency at which heat is transferred changes. There are different suggestions on how the compressor work is affected, including reducing or reversing the process. However, there is a thermocouple control that shuts off the compressor once the desired temperature is achieved and activates it again when the temperature rises. Some resources provide further explanation and examples of how this process works.
  • #1
Bonulo
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When a refrigerator has been turned on for some time, steady state refrigeration occurs. This is the normal refrigerator operative state. But what exactly happens?

These things are really hard to do research on, since Internet searches, regardless of search query detailing, result in a lot of useless sites. Our textbook, University Physics 11th Ed., has nothing on the subject.


Does the compressor

1. lower its amount of work done on the refrigerant so much, that the refrigerator cools as quickly as heat conduction heats the food? (I don't think so)

2. lower its amount of work for some time, when the temperature gets a bit too cool, then increase it, when the temperature gets a bit too hot, and continue this way, steadily lowering and increasing its work? (This has been suggested to us)

3. reverse the process for some time (so that heat is pumped into, instead of out of the refrigerator) and continue steadily reversing the process? (This too has been suggested)
 
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  • #2
Under steady-state operation, a refrigerator removes as much heat from the cold region as leaks back in from the environment. The in-leakage of heat depends on the temperature differential, or more commonly, convection of cold atmosphere out which is displaced by warmer air (as when one opens the door). There is a thermocouple control which shuts of the compressor once the desired temperature is achieved, and thereafter, the control will activate the compressor once a warmer temperature is acheived.

Compressor work is usually constant, at least for residential systems. What changes is the efficiency at which heat is transferred.

See if these help -
http://hyperphysics.phy-astr.gsu.edu/hbase/thermo/heatpump.html

http://www.aie.org.au/melb/material/resource/cop.htm [Broken]

http://ist-socrates.berkeley.edu/~phy7b/solutions/T5_WkSheet/T5soln.html [Broken]

http://electron9.phys.utk.edu/phys136d/modules/m3/heatpump.htm [Broken]
 
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1. What is steady state refrigeration?

Steady state refrigeration is a process in which a refrigeration system maintains a constant temperature within a controlled environment without any significant fluctuations.

2. How does steady state refrigeration work?

Steady state refrigeration works by circulating a refrigerant through a closed loop system, removing heat from the environment and transferring it to the outside. The refrigerant is compressed to increase its temperature and then condensed back into a liquid state, releasing the heat. This process is repeated continuously to maintain a steady temperature.

3. What are the benefits of steady state refrigeration?

Steady state refrigeration offers several benefits, including reduced energy consumption, improved temperature control, and longer lifespan of refrigeration equipment. It also helps preserve perishable goods and maintain the quality of sensitive products.

4. What factors affect the efficiency of steady state refrigeration?

The efficiency of steady state refrigeration can be affected by various factors, including the type and condition of the refrigeration equipment, the properties of the refrigerant used, and the ambient temperature and humidity of the environment being cooled.

5. How can I improve the efficiency of steady state refrigeration?

To improve the efficiency of steady state refrigeration, you can ensure regular maintenance of refrigeration equipment, use energy-efficient models, choose the right refrigerant for your needs, and control the temperature and humidity of the environment being cooled.

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