The objective of this research is to explore the feasibility of a vapor-jet-ejector for use in a novel heat-pipe refrigerator. The refrigerator operates on the vapor-compression principle using a vapor-jet ejector for compression and capillary wicking for liquid inventory control and pumping. A major uncertainty associated with the performance of this unique device is the operation of the vapor- jet ejector at low absolute pressure. A vapor-jet ejector will be constructed in a closed loop. The vapor mass flow rates will be quantified at various pressure ratios. The results of this research are directly related to the Coefficient of Performance of the refrigerator so that the feasibility of the heat-pipe refrigerator will be established. This new device is a completely passive refrigerator system which is extremely simple in physical structure. The heat-pipe refrigerator should provide an inexpensive and reliable refrigerator that can be driven by low-quality energy.
