Comparative 3E Analysis of Dual-Purpose Compression Refrigeration Systems Operating Under Various Climates in Multi-purpose Cold Storage Facilities

Due to the strong dependence of the food industry on the cold chain, utilizing an optimal refrigeration facility plays a crucial role. This study focuses on the pattern of energy consumption, energy performance and exergy efficiency, and environmental effects (3E) of compression refrigeration systems used in multi-purpose cold storage. Depending on the climate and storage conditions, cooling load distribution between above and below zero evaporators significantly affects energy consumption and exergy efficiency. The limitations of each system in different cooling load demands using eco-friendly refrigerants determine that R717/R290, R290, and R134a are the optimal refrigerants for cascade, two-stage, and one-stage systems, respectively. The results show that cascade system is the least constrained operationally and technically. Its exergy efficiency is up to 4% higher than two-stage system, depending on how the refrigeration load is distributed. Two-stage system has the highest seasonal energy performance ratio (SEPR) (13% more than cascade in hot and humid climate). Its energy consumption is 18–25% less than cascade system depending on climate. Furthermore, it was found that the one-stage system is only suitable for hot and humid climates while two other systems operate well in all climates throughout the year. The amount of SEPR under cold climates for cascade system is 14% more than hot and humid climates and 3% more than moderate climates.