Multi-stage vapor compression system with intermediate pressure vessel
US6923011B2 · kind B2 · utility
Assignee
Inventor
Key dates
| Filing date | Sep 2, 2003 |
| Grant date | Aug 2, 2005 |
| Priority date | — |
| Expiry date | Sep 28, 2023 |
Classification
- Technology area (CPC F)Mechanical Engineering; Lighting; Heating
- CPC primaryF25B2600/17
- WIPO fieldThermal processes and apparatus
- WIPO sectorMechanical engineering
Abstract
A vapor compression system includes a first compression mechanism that compresses the working fluid from a low suction pressure to an intermediate pressure, a second compression mechanism that compresses intermediate pressure working fluid to a higher discharge pressure, and a fluid circuit circulating the working fluid discharged from the second compression mechanism to the first compression mechanism. The fluid circuit includes, in serial order, a first high pressure heat exchanger, an expansion device and an evaporator. The system may be operated as a transcritical system employing carbon dioxide as the working fluid. An intermediate pressure vessel is in communication with the system between the first and second compression mechanisms and working fluid at an intermediate pressure is communicated with the vessel. The system may be regulated by controlling the mass of working fluid contained in the intermediate pressure vessel, e.g., by regulating the temperature or storage volume of the vessel.
Source: USPTO / EPO open patent data. Objective bibliographic and citation counts.