Lubricant return schemes for use in refrigerant cycle
US7104076B2 · kind B2 · utility
3Cited by
20References
24Claims
0Family size
Assignee
Inventors
Key dates
| Filing date | Jun 24, 2004 |
| Grant date | Sep 12, 2006 |
| Priority date | — |
| Expiry date | Aug 29, 2024 |
Classification
- Technology area (CPC Y)Emerging Cross-Sectional Technologies
- CPC primaryY02B30/70
- WIPO fieldThermal processes and apparatus
- WIPO sectorMechanical engineering
Abstract
A control algorithm is developed which takes corrective action in the event that system conditions indicate there may be an inadequate flow of lubricant in the system. In particular, if a discharge pressure is below a predetermined amount or if the suction modulation valve is throttled, there is a possibility of inadequate lubricant flow. The system control then turns off the condenser fan, and if that first step is not sufficient, may also turn on an evaporator heater and then control a suction modulation valve. A fail safe control loop also takes effect if the condition sensor appears to have failed.
Source: USPTO / EPO open patent data. Objective bibliographic and citation counts.