Experimental Research on a Heat Pump Water Heater Using Low Pressure Steam as Heat Source

摘要

Heat recovery of low pressure steam in steam condenser of thermal power plant was attractive because of its great economy and environmental value. This paper reported the experimental investigation results on the application of a heat pump water heater (HPWH) using low pressure steam in steam condenser as heat source. The working principles and features of the prototype heat pump were introduced. The effects of various parameters, including water flow rate and inlet temperature of heat pump condenser were investigated. Influence of vacuum pump on HPWH was also discussed. Results show that performance of HPWH is governed strongly by the change of water flow rate and inlet water temperature of heat pump condenser and vacuum pump. Maximum outlet water temperature of the test HPWH is 65°C and the maximum coefficient of performance (COP) is 4.5.