Simulation-based Optimization of Hybrid Absorption Heat Pump Integration in Industrial Process
This study investigates a simulation-based optimization of integrating a Hybrid Absorption Heat Pump (HAHP) with solar thermal energy into an agri-food factory in southern Spain, focusing on optimizing energy use and reducing steam consumption. A comprehensive simulation framework was developed to model the existing biomass steam-based heating system and evaluate five integration scenarios. The HAHP, utilizing lithium bromide-water as the working fluid, combines thermal and mechanical compression to enhance efficiency with a focus on dynamic operation based on availability of solar thermal and demand on the heating plant. The model was validated against the measured data showing a 5.11% deviation in steam consumption. Results show that case 4, which utilizes thermal storage in a buffer tank and operates HAHP when solar thermal temperature exceeds 80°C, achieves the highest steam saving of 46.1%. This investigation also demonstrates a balanced use of renewable energy reducing primary energy consumption while maintaining operational efficiency. This study highlights the critical role of buffer tank sizing for storing solar thermal energy to cover the mismatch between solar thermal availability and the demand in the heating and cooling plant.