Temperature control system for a machine and methods of operating same

Abstract

A temperature control system for an electrical machine and a method of operating the system are provided. The machine includes a housing enclosing a motor and a compressor, the housing includes a suction pipeline in flow communication with the compressor. The suction pipeline is configured to channel fluid into the housing. A temperature control system assembly includes a fluid mover coupled to at least one of the rotor shaft and the compressor shaft and in flow communication with the suction pipeline upstream from the compressor. The fluid mover is configured to channel the fluid from the suction pipeline and across at least one of the motor and the compressor. Temperature control system includes a distribution header coupled to the housing and in flow communication with the fluid mover, the distribution header includes a first outlet coupled in flow communication to the motor to channel the fluid across the motor.

Description

technical field [0001] The present disclosure relates to electric machines, and more particularly to methods and systems for use in temperature control of electric machines. Background technique [0002] Electric motors such as integrated motor driven compressors generate heat during operation due to electrical and mechanical losses. Components in both the motor and compressor of an integrated motor driven compressor require temperature control in order to maintain the temperature within an acceptable operating range. For example, excessive motor temperatures can lead to failure of motor bearings and / or damage to stator winding insulation, power connectors, or instrumentation. Maintaining an optimal temperature range for temperature sensitive components of the electric motor results in enhanced performance efficiency and extended service life. [0003] Electric drives may be superior to mechanical drives (i.e., gas-fired turbine). Additionally, electric drives are often ...

AI Technical Summary

Problems solved by technology

However, exhausting large volumes of partially or fully compressed gas flow from the compressor to meet motor cooling requirements reduces compression efficiency and can also cause additional stress, vibration and fatigue to compressor components

In some cases, the pressure of the fluid available from the compressor is much higher than that required by the cooling flow and must be throttled, implying a loss of efficiency

Furthermore, in some cases, the fluid being conveyed may have corrosive components or impurities entrained therein, which may negatively affect the service life of the components being used

Images