An experimental and simulation analysis of a laboratory single-stage H2O-LiBr absorption heat pump with a cooling capacity of 14 kW has been performed. Design characteristics of the machine are given and experimental results obtained from the variation of the five most influential parameters are presented. The machine performance, as described by the coefficient of performance (COP) and cooling capacity was then measured at different flow rates and temperatures of the external cool and hot water loops and for different temperatures of produced chilled water. A design and dimensioning model of H2O-LiBr absorption heat pumps was developed. First, the steady-state simulation results of the model were compared with experimental measurements. Close agreement between experimental and simulation results was found. Results also show that the heat pump can adequately operate over a wide range of generator input energy and chilled water temperature; the cooling water flow rate and temperature significantly affect the performance of the machine. Finally, the capability of the model is illustrated by dimensioning an absorption heat pump implemented in a Kraft process. (C) 2010 Elsevier Ltd. All rights reserved.