Volume 87, Issue 10 (2026), Pages: 19-34;
Received: 21 May 2026 / Revised: 26 September 2026/ Accepted: 03 October 2026/ Published: 10 October 2026
Research article
Improving the Coefficient of Performance in Refrigeration System through Condensate-Assisted Condenser
Rajay Reddy K1,*, Md Waquar Shahid2, Nidhi Sneha Bara3, Dipika Sinha3, Sandeep Kumar Gupta4
1Research Scholar, Department of Mechanical Engineering, Vellore Institute of Technology, Vellore, Tamil Nadu, India.
2Assistant Professor, Department of Mechanical Engineering, Government Engineering College, West Champaran, Bihar, India.
3Assistant Professor, Department of Mechanical Engineering, Government Engineering College, Nawada, Bihar, India.
4Assistant Professor, Department of Mechanical Engineering, Sershah Engineering College, Sasaram, Bihar, India.
Abstract: This study investigates how spraying condensate water onto the condenser of a vapor compression refrigeration system (VCRS) affects its performance, especially under hot ambient conditions. In high temperatures, condenser pressure and compressor work rise, lowering the system’s coefficient of performance (COP) and efficiency. To counter this, condensate water collected from the evaporator is pumped—using a solar-powered pump—onto the condenser surface. As the sprayed water evaporates, it provides evaporative cooling, reducing condenser temperature and improving overall system efficiency. Experiments were conducted in Paris, France, using a split-type air conditioner equipped with thermocouples, pressure gauges, and electrical meters to monitor performance before and after implementing the spray technique. Results showed significant improvements: the average actual COP increased from 2.37 to 3.42 (a 44% rise), electrical power consumption dropped by 13.8%, and the specific cooling effect improved by 22.2%, indicating enhanced cooling capacity. Condenser cooling performance also improved markedly. Key factors influencing system performance included spray rate, ambient temperature, and humidity. The method proved sustainable and cost-effective, as it recycles water generated within the system itself. Overall, the condensate water spray technique offers a practical, energy-saving solution to boost COP, reduce power usage, and enhance thermal performance in refrigeration systems operating under hot climatic conditions.
Keywords: Vapor Compression Refrigeration System (VCRS), Condenser Efficiency, Evaporative Cooling, Coefficient of Performance (COP), Energy Consumption.
* Corresponding Author: rajayrk23@vit.ac.in
Doi (Journal): 10.1045/2026.Bauingenieur/108805-VDI_005
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