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Air conditioning systems for aeronautical applications: a review

Published online by Cambridge University Press:  27 December 2019

M. Merzvinskas Open the ORCID record for M. Merzvinskas [Opens in a new window] ,
C. Bringhenti ,
J.T. Tomita  and
C.R. de Andrade
M. Merzvinskas*
Affiliation:
EMBRAERSão José dos CamposSão PauloBrazil
C. Bringhenti
Affiliation:
Aeronautics Institute of Technology (ITA)São José dos CamposSão PauloBrazil
J.T. Tomita
Affiliation:
Aeronautics Institute of Technology (ITA)São José dos CamposSão PauloBrazil
C.R. de Andrade
Affiliation:
Aeronautics Institute of Technology (ITA)São José dos CamposSão PauloBrazil
*
marcelo.merzvinskas@embraer.com.br
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Abstract

This paper presents a review of the various aeronautical air conditioning systems that are currently available and discusses possible system configurations in the context of the aeronautical environmental control systems. Descriptions of the standard vapor compression cycle and air cycles are provided. The latter includes, simple-cycle, bootstrap-cycle, simple-bootstrap cycle (3-wheel) and condensing cycle (4-wheel). Water separation and air recirculation systems are also explored. A comparison between vapor compression cycles and air cycles is provided, as well as a comparison between different air cycles. Air cycle units are far less efficient than vapor compression cycle units, but they are lighter and more reliable for an equivalent cooling capacity. Details regarding the aircraft conceptual design phase along with general criteria for the selection of an air conditioning system are provided. Additionally, industry trends and technological advances are examined. Conclusions are compiled to guide the systems engineer in the search for the most appropriate design for a particular application.

Keywords

AeronauticalCommercial aircraftEnvironmental control systemsAir conditioningAir cycle machineWater separationAir recirculationVapor compression cycleRefrigeration
Type
Research Article
Information
The Aeronautical Journal , Volume 124 , Issue 1274 , April 2020 , pp. 499 - 532
Copyright
© Royal Aeronautical Society 2019

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