ABSTRACT:

The objective of the study is to verify the performance and operational efficiency of prototype evaporator coil designed for multipurpose applications, including ventilation, air conditioning, and air quality control. As cooling systems play a critical role in maintaining indoor environmental quality in residential, commercial, and industrial settings, ensuring the reliability and functionality of such a prototype is essential before broader deployment or further development. The study holds particular significance for industries such as pharmaceuticals, chemicals, fertilizers, etc. where maintaining a supply of low-moisture air is essential to avoid the formation of product clumps, inconsistencies in the products and efficient drying thereby increasing its shelf life. In these contexts, it is crucial that the humidity ratio of the process air remains within the prescribed limit to comply with operational and product quality standards. The primary objective of the research is to determine the lowest evaporating refrigerant temperature at which the system can function reliably without frost accumulating on the evaporator surface, even in the presence of high moisture content in the incoming air. The formation of frost adversely affects heat transfer efficiency, impedes airflow, and may result in system shutdowns problems that are intolerable in sensitive industrial settings.