Reverse-Carnot COP (Theoretical Limit)
Maximum possible cooling COP for a given evaporator and condenser temperature pair. Real cycles achieve 35–65 % of this.
Reverse-Carnot COP (max)
4.78 -
Temperature lift
55.0K
Formula, assumptions, and limits
$$\text{COP}_\text{Carnot} = \frac{T_\text{cold}}{T_\text{hot} - T_\text{cold}}$$
Temperatures in kelvin. Practical refrigerant cycles reach 35–60 % of Carnot depending on cycle losses, pinch-point design, and compressor efficiency. Lift of 60 K → Carnot ~4.4 at 0 °C evap.
Symbol legend
| Symbol | Meaning | Unit | Source |
|---|---|---|---|
| $T_\text{cold}$ | Evaporator temperature | K | T_evap + 273.15 |
| $T_\text{hot}$ | Condenser temperature | K | T_cond + 273.15 |
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