2023ICERD8-C30 -- In-Situ Performance Assessment for Dual-Cycle and Dual-Outlet Air Conditioner

This paper aims to evaluate the performance of a patented dual-cycle and dual-outlet air conditioner system in-situ. According to the invention patent, the system aims at the individualized control of room temperature, allowing for better thermal comfort, which might lead to energy and system cost savings. The system includes two separate condensation-evaporation cycles within the same enclosure and operates independently. The cycles share the same return air intake/evaporator blower and condenser/exhaust fan. In this study, we assessed the dual-cycle and dual-outlet air conditioner prototype system in terms of indoor air temperature, relative humidity, and airflow at various outdoor weather conditions representing summer season. The system performance assessment in this work followed ANSI/ASHRAE Standard 221-2020. On average, the system demonstrated a low Coefficient of Performance (COP) of 1.12, along with a cooling capacity of 33,987 BTU/Hr. In comparison, the manufacturer's adjusted cooling capacity for the test conditions was 70,250.66 BTU/Hr. The testing unveiled a deficiency in the delivered capacity of the installed system, which was approximately 50% of its rated capacity. The primary reason for this shortfall in capacity is attributed to the airflow restriction within the installed system, which was nearly half of the manufacturer's specified rating. These findings provide valuable insights for future system design and installation modifications aimed at improving overall system performance. The evaluation of the installed system's performance will be extended to encompass varying indoor test conditions, allowing for a comprehensive assessment of its capabilities.