Dome-loaded back pressure regulator with setpoint pressure energized by process fluid
US11193703B1 · kind B1 · utility
Assignee
Inventors
Key dates
| Filing date | May 10, 2018 |
| Grant date | Dec 7, 2021 |
| Priority date | — |
| Expiry date | Sep 5, 2038 |
Classification
- Technology area (CPC F)Mechanical Engineering; Lighting; Heating
- CPC primaryF25B2700/2117
- WIPO fieldThermal processes and apparatus
- WIPO sectorMechanical engineering
Abstract
A method of operating a thermal system including at least a compressor, a condenser, a flow control valve, and at least one heat exchanger connected in a closed fluid loop charged with refrigerant. The method includes: regulating refrigerant pressure at a selected point within the fluid loop using a pressure regulating apparatus including: a main pressure regulator including a dome in fluid communication with a diaphragm that seals directly against at least one process void and at least one vent void; and a pilot pressure regulator in fluid communication with the dome so as to provide fluid thereto at a setpoint pressure. The setpoint pressure is maintained by the pilot pressure regulator utilizing refrigerant tapped from the fluid loop The refrigerant is tapped from a point upstream of the main pressure regulator and tapped refrigerant is returned to the fluid loop downstream of the main pressure regulator.
Source: USPTO / EPO open patent data. Objective bibliographic and citation counts.