DESIGN MODIFICATION AND CONSTRUCTION OF SOLAR POWERED REFRIGERATOR

ABSTRACT This project presents the design and construction of a solar-powered refrigerator developed to provide an efficient, reliable, and environmentally friendly cooling solution, particularly for rural and off-grid communities. The system operates by converting solar energy into electrical power through photovoltaic (PV) panels, storing the generated energy in a deep-cycle battery, and supplying it to a vapor-compression refrigeration system using an AC compressor. The study was motivated by the challenges of unstable electricity supply, high energy costs, and the need for sustainable alternatives to fossil-fuel-powered refrigerators. The refrigerator was constructed using locally available materials, including an AC compressor (1/5 hp), condenser coil, evaporator coil, refrigerant (R134a), polyurethane foam for insulation, aluminum inner lining, and a solar panel 250w supported by a 130 Ah, 12 V battery. Thermodynamic calculations and engineering design principles were applied to ensure proper component selection, energy efficiency, and system reliability. Test results showed that the solar-powered refrigerator successfully achieved internal cooling temperatures between 2°C and 8°C, suitable for food and beverage preservation. Cooling from ambient temperature (32°C) to 5°C occurred within 25–40 minutes, depending on load conditions. The refrigerator operated smoothly during peak sunlight hours, running directly on solar power while simultaneously charging the battery.. It offers significant advantages including reduced operating costs, zero greenhouse gas emissions during use, and improved access to refrigeration in communities lacking stable electricity. Despite limitations such as high initial cost and dependence on sunlight intensity, the system demonstrated strong potential for applications such as food preservation, healthcare, small businesses, and rural development.