Simulation of Isothermal and Adiabatic Leak Processes of Zeotropic Refrigerant Mixtures

Abstract

possible alternative ref~erants for use in domestic heaf pumps and air conditioners. Re~erant l.eakagefiom such a system is ofpararnount concern since it is possible that a mixture composition will sh.ijt to aJarnmabie range. This paper presents sinudations of leak processes of zeotropic ref%erant mixtures. Idealized cases of isothermal and adiabatic leak processes are consklered in this study as representations of slow and fmt leaks, respectively. Results of simulations are pre-sented for a seZected composition of binary and ternary ref~erant mixtures; R-32/134a and R-32 / 125 / 134a Mass&action changes of the mbiures are presented with respect to the percentage leak of the original charge. In the isothermal leak process, the fraction of the more vola.tf.lere~erant in both vapor and liquid phases decreases for either a vapor or a liquid leak. The mass fraction changes at a low initial temperature are greater than those at a high initial temperature. During the adiabatic leak process, the vapor mass j-action of the more volatile component increases, while the liquid mass fraction of that component decreases for both vapor and liquid leak processes.