NT-87-08-2 -- HVAC Instrumentation Using a Microcomputer PDF

A 2 1/2 ton single-package heat pump (water-source) was instrumented so that system performance can be monitored using microcomputer. The experiment is pars of the senior-level Experimental Techniques II course required of all mechanical engineering students at a state university. Primary emphasis is placed on making appropriate measurements from which the heat pump performance can be "mapped." Uncertainties are calculated for all measured physical variables (temperature, pressure, etc.) and for system performance parameters such as COPs, heat delivery rate, etc.

The microcomputer contains a standard monitor, printer, and disc drive. Additional hardware installed in it consists of two 16-channel, 8-bit analog-to-digital (A/D) converters and real-time clock.

Appropriate transducer circuits are used to monitor operating characteristics of the heat pump. Students are required to determine basic performance characteristics of the system, such as COP for a Carnot heat engine operating between the same high and low temperatures as the actual heat pump, actual COPs for heating and cooling, etc.

Units: I-P