Experimental assessment of various control algorithms for direct evaporative cooling systems
Shreya Nigam1*, Yash Shukla2
1: CEPT University, Ahmedabad, India;
2: Centre for Advanced Research in Building Science and Energy, CRDF, Ahmedabad, India
DOI: 10.62744/CATE.45273.1181-296-304
Email: sn.shreya@gmail.com
Abstract:
The use of air conditioning systems for comfort and space cooling is a major driving factor for the rising energy demand, currently accounting for nearly 10% of all the global electricity consumption today, and expected to be tripled by 2050. Direct evaporative cooling systems are an energy-efficient alternative to conventional air conditioning systems. The evaporative coolers offer a significant reduction in indoor air temperature while maintaining a desirable indoor air quality. However, maintaining indoor relative humidity levels in a comfortable range is a challenge with evaporative cooling systems.
The aim of the study was to explore the potential for improving the comfort hours offered by the direct evaporative cooling system, operated through control algorithms. Various control logics were developed based on outdoor and indoor conditions, to modulate the system performance through fan operation, airflow rate or water pump operation. The experimental assessment of an evaporative cooling unit was conducted in a controlled environment to generate a characteristic performance curve for the system. To estimate the realistic benefits, the simulations for control algorithms were conducted using the theoretical as well as the experimental performance data.
Keywords: Direct Evaporative Cooling, Control Algorithms, Thermal Comfort