Abstract
This work deals with the probability of using a counter-flow M-cycle in Arab Gulf cities. The system is applied for weather conditions for the main cities in the region, which are Riyadh, Dammam, and Jeddah in Saudi Arabia; Abu Dhabi and Dubai in the United Arab Emirates; Kuwait, the capital of Kuwait; Doha, the capital of Qatar; and Muharraq in Bahrain. Heat and mass transfer models for the air flow in channels are developed and solved. The present model of the counter-flow M-cycle shows good agreement with the previous experimental and numerical works. The literature review shows that the critical value of ambient relative humidity is 70%. Below that value, the M-cycle could be used. This value is only exceeded sometimes in Jeddah, reaching 72.77%. The obtained results show that the supply conditions of air leaving the counter-flow M-cycle are more convenient than that can be achieved by the evaporative cooler. The M-cycle system consumes water more than the evaporative cooler. However, it uses less electrical energy than the vapor-compression refrigeration system, for the same cooling capacity. The M-cycle sometimes supplies air with conditions that do not meet the comfort condition. However, these conditions are still more convenient than those provided by the conventional evaporative cooling systems (DECs and IECs). In conclusion, the M-cycle is suitable for all selected cities and should be considered as an alternative to conventional HVAC systems in Arab Gulf Countries.
•The feasibility of using a counter-flow M-cycle in Arab Gulf cities is presented.•The M-cycle is more convenient than the evaporative cooler in selected cities.•The M-cycle system uses less electrical energy than a vapor-compression system.•It is suitable to use under all weather conditions of selected cities.•It should be considered as a serious alternative to conventional HVAC systems.