Experimental performance evaluation of a novel indirect evaporative cooler with optimized heat exchanger design

This study presents an experimental and numerical investigation of a novel M-cycle indirect evaporative cooler designed for energy-efficient cooling in arid and semi-arid climates. The innovative heat and mass exchanger, featuring embossed aluminium plates with wavy corrugated fins and an optimized water distribution system, was analysed using a one-dimensional mathematical model and validated against experimental data from a prototype. Performance was assessed across various operational parameters, including airflow rate, working-to-input air ratio, and water flow rate. Results consistently demonstrated optimal system performance at an airflow rate of 400 m3/h, achieving a maximum coefficient of performance (COP) of 4, a wet-bulb effectiveness reaching 1.06, and a dew-point effectiveness of 0.8. The findings confirm the prototype's high efficiency and validate the mathematical model, offering significant potential for sustainable cooling solutions.