Creating chilled air from an AGS Energy gasifier and using it in an air conditioning (aircon) system involves a series of energy conversion processes that transform the thermal energy produced by the gasifier into a cooling effect. Here's an overview of how this process typically works:
- Absorption Refrigeration: Instead of converting the syngas into electricity, the thermal energy from syngas combustion can directly drive an absorption chiller system. An absorption chiller is a type of refrigeration system that uses heat (rather than electricity) to produce chilled water, which can then be used for air conditioning.
- Working Fluids: Absorption chillers typically use a combination of a refrigerant (such as water) and an absorbent (such as lithium bromide) to create a cooling effect. The process involves:
- Generator: The heat from the gasifier or the syngas combustion drives the generator in the absorption chiller. The heat causes the refrigerant to evaporate, separating from the absorbent.
- Condenser: The evaporated refrigerant is then condensed back into a liquid in the condenser.
- Evaporator: The liquid refrigerant passes through an expansion valve into the evaporator, where it evaporates again, absorbing heat from the surroundings and producing a cooling effect.
- Absorber: The refrigerant vapor is reabsorbed by the absorbent in the absorber, and the cycle continues.
Chilled Air Distribution
- Chilled Water to Air Handler: The chilled water produced by the absorption chiller is circulated through an air handler unit or fan coil units in the building.
- Cooling Air: As air passes over the chilled water coils in the air handler, the air is cooled and dehumidified. The cooled air is then distributed throughout the building via ductwork, providing air conditioning.
Integration and Efficiency
- Heat Recovery: The gasifier system can be integrated with a Combined Heat and Power (CHP) system to maximize efficiency. In this setup, the excess heat from electricity generation or the gasification process itself can be utilized in the absorption chiller, ensuring that as much energy as possible is converted into useful work (cooling and/or electricity).
- Sustainability: By using biomass and other organic wastes as feedstock, the system not only provides cooling but also promotes sustainable waste management and reduces reliance on fossil fuels.