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Old 07-21-2011, 02:05 PM   #49 (permalink)
bwilson4web
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Join Date: Mar 2009
Location: Huntsville, AL
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17 i3-REx - '14 BMW i3-REx
Last 3: 45.67 mpg (US)

Blue Bob's - '19 Tesla Std Rng Plus
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Perhaps it is time to look at a lithium-bromide, absorption, cooler that uses the exhaust waste heat to drive the boiler?

My understanding is lithium-bromide is safe with copper and these systems typically operate at a reduced pressure so the water refrigerant can boil at lower temperatures. There is a challenge of mounting the waste-heat, radiator but I suspect that can be solved by mounting in the bumper cover area with plenty of ventilation. Sure, it would get crushed in an accident but so too do regular AC units.

When the cold weather comes, drain the lithium-bromide water and wait for warm weather to put it back in and reduce the pressure.

I've got a full-plate of my own mods but this would be a clever solution if someone doesn't mind doing the plumbing.

Bob Wilson
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2019 Tesla Model 3 Std. Range Plus - 215 mi EV
2017 BMW i3-REx - 106 mi EV, 88 mi mid-grade
Retired engineer, Huntsville, AL
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