Oil viscosity control method/system for a refrigeration unit
US5937659A · kind A · utility
Assignee
Inventors
Key dates
| Filing date | Apr 9, 1998 |
| Grant date | Aug 17, 1999 |
| Priority date | — |
| Expiry date | Apr 9, 2018 |
Classification
- Technology area (CPC F)Mechanical Engineering; Lighting; Heating
- CPC primaryF25B41/24
- WIPO fieldThermal processes and apparatus
- WIPO sectorMechanical engineering
Abstract
A method for controlling oil viscosity in a refrigeration unit having an oil viscosity effecting parameter with a desired set point. The refrigeration unit includes an oil lubricated compressor having a capacity and a suction pressure, a condenser, refrigerant control valves, and an evaporator connected in series, for circulating a refrigerant for adjusting air temperature of a compartment. The method comprises the steps of measuring the parameter; controlling viscosity level of said oil so as not to interfere with proper operation of the compressor, including the steps of: setting a parameter range inclusive of the desired set point in which parameter is desired to fall, said range having a high point and a low point, wherein with said parameter in said range, viscosity of the oil is substantially at a desired level; cooling the air if based on said step of measuring the parameter is higher than said high point; heating the air if based said step of measuring the temperature is lower than said low point; and maintaining said air temperature if based on said means for sensing the parameter is within said desired range and toward said set point. A related system for oil viscosity co…
Source: USPTO / EPO open patent data. Objective bibliographic and citation counts.