Projeto e desenvolvimento de uma pista de gelo didática

Abstract

This work presents the design and development of a didactic system for generating reduced-scale ice rinks, aimed at supporting laboratory practices in the courses of Refrigeration and Air Conditioning and HVAC System Design in the Mechanical Engineering program at the Federal University of Rio Grande do Norte (UFRN). The project seeks to facilitate the study of the simple vapor compression refrigeration cycle in both direct and indirect expansion configurations with secondary fluids, covering technical sizing and practical system operation. In the initial phase, thermal load calculations were performed, along with the sizing of the heat exchanger (a copper coil evaporator) and the selection of refrigeration circuit components, such as the filter drier, sight glass, solenoid valve, expansion valve, and other control devices. The system was initially designed to operate with R22 refrigerant in direct expansion, adhering to specific limitations and its didactic purpose. Additionally, a three-dimensional model was developed using AutoCAD®, as well as the layout of the refrigeration circuit. In the second phase, a system adaptation (retrofitting) was proposed to enable operation with a secondary fluid, employing a double-pipe heat exchanger and detailing the start-up and operational adjustment procedures. This transition expands the system's didactic potential, allowing the study of advanced topics such as the interaction between primary and secondary cycles, heat transfer parameters, and energy efficiency. As a result, the developed system serves as a practical learning platform, focused on the detailed understanding of refrigeration cycles, heat transfer, system sizing, and performance analysis. This approach aims not only to strengthen the technical education of mechanical engineering students but also to encourage critical analysis and the pursuit of innovative solutions in thermal and refrigeration systems, such as ice rinks.