The novel use of phase change materials in a refrigerated display cabinet: An experimental investigation

In this paper, the performance of a refrigerated open-type multi-deck display cabinet with integration of phase change material (PCM) was investigated experimentally. The PCM (water gel) was purposely selected by mixing specific ratios of different materials to obtain appropriate melting and freezing temperatures for this application. It was then charged into two single panel radiators which were installed immediately after the cabinet evaporator in the main back flow channel such that the cooled air flow could pass through both radiator sides externally. The display cabinet with and without PCM integration was then mounted in an air conditioned chamber and tested at the same operating condition to measure and compare the performances of system and components. The tests results showed that by installing the PCM radiators, up to 5% energy savings and lower cabinet temperatures could be achieved. Further benefits could also be obtained such as more stabilization of the product temperatures during defrost period for the modified display cabinet.