This paper investigates the feasibility of using air as a coolant media in an air-conditioning open cycle system. Recent research in this area has been mainly in using closed cycle systems, using relatively higher compression levels, when compared with currently used refrigerant gas systems. This investigation focuses on an open cycle based on a series of compression and expansion cycles. Thus reducing the size of air compressor. Subsequently reducing the consumption of energy. Methodology employed was using CFD software to model the system. Airflow stream lines and air flow pressure contours were recorded. Data was collected and tabulated for discussions. Several models were generatedby increasing the number of compression/expansion cycles, searching for optimum solution. CFD generated results and calculations were compared with commercially available air-conditioning system. It was concluded that CFD techniques can be used to develop effective sustainable cooling systems, based on a simplified easy to manufacture geometric model. Air can be used in an open cycle cooling system with an acceptable level of sensible cooling and low energy consumption. Thus avoiding the need for manufactured refrigerant gases which are costly to produce and can be harmful to the environment.

Full text: IJEIR_1295_updated_Final.pdf