ABSTRACT
This chapter introduces and discusses evaluation criteria for vapor compression cycles based on analysis with the first and second laws of thermodynamics. Although other cycles can be applied for attaining heat pump effects, vapor compression cycles are most common. The most simple vapor compression cycle is discussed here as an example. Industrial plants mostly require complex types of vapor compression cycles, but similar analysis can be developed for such complex cycles. Sahin et al. (2001), Sahin and Kodal (2002) and Chen (1999) presented thermoeconomic optimization studies of two-stage refrigeration systems, including the effect of the major irreversibilities and economic parameters.
