Refrigerant cycle device and method for setting refrigerant cycle device

Abstract

The disclosed method sets a refrigerant cycle device (100). The refrigerant cycle device (100) has a first heat source unit (30), a utilization unit (10), and a connecting pipe (20). The method includes a first refrigerant recovery step (S102) and a second refrigerant storage step (S107). In the first refrigerant recovery step (S102), a first refrigerant (R1) is recovered from the first heat source unit (30). The first refrigerant (R1) has a first GWP coefficient and has at least one of flammability and toxicity. In the second refrigerant storage step (S107), a second refrigerant (R2) is stored in the first heat source unit (30). The second refrigerant (R2) is recovered and regenerated from an existing device (200) and has a second GWP coefficient and has at least one of non-flammability and non-toxicity.

Description

Technical Field

[0001] The present invention relates to a refrigeration cycle device and a method for installing the refrigeration cycle device. Background Art

[0002] Patent document 1 (European Patent Publication EP3505842A1) discloses a method for installing a refrigeration cycle device. In this method, first, a refrigerant with non-flammability and a high GWP coefficient (global warming potential) is removed from an already installed refrigeration cycle device. Then, a refrigerant with flammability and a low GWP coefficient is placed in the refrigeration cycle device. Summary of the invention

[0003] Problems to be solved by the invention

[0004] With regard to the non-flammable refrigerants currently sold on the market, they are being replaced by refrigerants with a smaller GWP coefficient but flammable or toxic (hereinafter referred to as "flammable refrigerants, etc.") for the purpose of suppressing global warming. Therefore, it is expected that in the future, refrigerant cycle devices manufactured in factories will be dominated by refrigerant cycle devices using flammable refrigerants, etc. On the other hand, in some buildings, the use of flammable refrigerants, etc. is sometimes avoided from the perspective of safety. In this way, there is still demand for both non-flammable refrigerants and flammable refrigerants, etc. in the market.

[0005] In order to meet the needs of all refrigerants, the following installation procedures are considered. First, the refrigerant circuit of the refrigerant cycle device shipped from the factory is evacuated or filled with air. Next, the refrigerant cycle device is transported to the installation site. Finally, the installed refrigerant cycle device is filled with the desired refrigerant.

[0006] However, a refrigerant cycle device that does not contain refrigerant may be damaged during transportation.

[0007] Means for solving problems

[0008] The method of the first viewpoint is to set a refrigerant circulation device. The refrigerant circulation device has a first heat source unit, a utilization unit, and a connecting pipe. The method comprises a first refrigerant recovery step and a second refrigerant storage step. In the first refrigerant recovery step, the first refrigerant is recovered from the first heat source unit. The first refrigerant has a first GWP coefficient and has at least one of flammability and toxicity. In the second refrigerant storage step, the second refrigerant is stored in the first heat source unit. The second refrigerant is recovered and regenerated from an existing device, and has a second GWP coefficient and has at least one of non-flammability and non-toxicity.

[0009] According to this method, in a refrigerant cycle device constituted by a new first heat source unit, a second refrigerant can be used. Therefore, in an environment where the use of a first refrigerant with flammability or toxicity is not allowed, a new type of refrigerant cycle device can be set up.

[0010] The method of the second aspect is that in the method of the first aspect, the existing equipment is an existing refrigerant cycle device. The existing refrigerant cycle device has a second heat source unit, a utilization unit, and a connecting pipe. The method also includes a second refrigerant recovery and regeneration step, a disconnection step, and a connection step. In the second refrigerant recovery and regeneration step, the second refrigerant is recovered from the existing equipment and regenerated. In the disconnection step, the second heat source unit is disconnected from the existing refrigerant cycle device. In the connection step, a refrigerant cycle device is constituted by connecting the first heat source unit to the connecting pipe.

[0011] According to this method, a new type of refrigerant cycle device can be constituted by using a part of the existing refrigerant cycle device. Therefore, cost reduction of the refrigerant cycle device can be achieved.

[0012] The method of the third aspect is that in the method of the first aspect, the existing equipment is a refrigerant cycle device of another system. The refrigerant cycle device of another system is constituted by components different from both the utilization unit and the connecting pipe. The method also includes a second refrigerant recovery and regeneration step. In the second refrigerant recovery and regeneration step, the second refrigerant is recovered from the existing equipment and regenerated.

[0013] According to this method, a new refrigerant cycle device can be set up integrally by using a new first heat source unit.

[0014] The method of the fourth aspect is that in the method of the second or third aspect, in the second refrigerant recovery and regeneration step, the second refrigerant is stored in at least a refrigerant storage container.

[0015] According to this method, the second refrigerant is stored in the refrigerant storage container. Therefore, it is easy to grasp the amount of the recovered second refrigerant according to the number of the used refrigerant storage containers.

[0016] The method of the fifth aspect is that in the method of any one of the second to fourth aspects, in the second refrigerant recovery and regeneration step, the second refrigerant is stored in at least the first heat source unit.

[0017] According to this method, the first heat source unit is used as a storage container for the second refrigerant. Therefore, the number of refrigerant storage containers required for setting up the refrigerant cycle device can be reduced, and thus the setting cost can be lowered.

[0018] The method of the sixth aspect is, in the method of any one of the second to fifth aspects, in the second refrigerant recovery and regeneration step, removing at least one of the second lubricating oil and water contained in the second refrigerant from the second refrigerant.

[0019] According to this method, the second lubricating oil or water is removed from the second refrigerant. Therefore, in a device where the mixing of the second lubricating oil or water is not allowed, the recovered second refrigerant can be reused.

[0020] The method of the seventh aspect is, in the method of any one of the first to sixth aspects, in the first refrigerant recovery step, the first lubricating oil contained in the first heat source unit remains in the first heat source unit.

[0021] According to this method, the first lubricating oil remains in the first heat source unit. Therefore, when the second refrigerant allows the use of the first lubricating oil, the installation cost can be reduced.

[0022] The method of the eighth aspect is, in the method of any one of the first to seventh aspects, the first heat source unit has a gas refrigerant port and a liquid refrigerant port. In the first refrigerant recovery step, the first refrigerant is recovered from the first heat source unit via the gas refrigerant port.

[0023] According to this method, the first refrigerant is recovered from the first heat source unit in a gaseous state. Therefore, the situation of taking out the lubricating oil contained in the first heat source unit together with the first refrigerant from the first heat source unit can be suppressed.

[0024] The method of the ninth aspect is, in the method of any one of the first to eighth aspects, the method further has a first refrigerant regeneration step. In the first refrigerant regeneration step, the first refrigerant recovered in the first refrigerant recovery step is regenerated.

[0025] According to this method, the first refrigerant recovered from the first heat source unit is regenerated. Therefore, the first refrigerant can be reused.

[0026] The method of the tenth aspect is, in the method of any one of the first to ninth aspects, further includes a second refrigerant display step, in which at least a display indicating the use of the second refrigerant is added to the first heat source unit.

[0027] According to this method, the maintenance manager of the refrigerant cycle device can easily understand the situation where the second refrigerant is used in the refrigerant cycle device. Therefore, the situation where the refrigerant cycle device is used in a wrong way can be suppressed.

[0028] In the method of the eleventh aspect, among the methods of any one of the first aspect to the tenth aspect, the second refrigerant is a mixed refrigerant containing the same components as the first refrigerant.

[0029] According to this method, the second refrigerant contains the same components as the first refrigerant. Therefore, the first refrigerant recovered in the first refrigerant recovery step can be reused in the refrigerant cycle device.

[0030] In the method of the twelfth aspect, among the methods of any one of the first aspect to the eleventh aspect, the second GWP coefficient is greater than the first GWP coefficient.

[0031] According to this method, it is possible to reduce the usage amount of the second refrigerant having a large second GWP coefficient worldwide through the recovery and regeneration of the second refrigerant from existing equipment. Therefore, global warming can be suppressed.

[0032] The refrigerant cycle device of the thirteenth aspect includes a first heat source unit, a utilization unit, and a connection pipe. The first heat source unit houses the second refrigerant after the first refrigerant originally housed in the first heat source unit is taken out. The first refrigerant has a first GWP coefficient and has at least one of flammability and toxicity. The second refrigerant has a second GWP coefficient and has at least one of non-flammability and non-toxicity. The second refrigerant is a refrigerant recovered and regenerated from existing equipment. The connection pipe connects the first heat source unit and the utilization unit.

[0033] According to this structure, the refrigerant cycle device uses the second refrigerant. Therefore, the refrigerant cycle device using the new first heat source unit can be used in an environment where the first refrigerant is not allowed to be used.

[0034] The refrigerant cycle device of the fourteenth aspect is the refrigerant cycle device of the thirteenth aspect, and further includes a remote controller. The remote controller has a display unit. The display unit is configured to display information related to the refrigerant housed in the first heat source unit.

[0035] According to this structure, the maintenance manager of the refrigerant cycle device can easily obtain information related to the refrigerant used in the refrigerant cycle device. Therefore, it is possible to suppress the situation where the refrigerant cycle device is used in a wrong way. BRIEF DESCRIPTION OF THE DRAWINGS

[0036] Figure 1 is a circuit diagram of the refrigerant cycle device 100 set by the setting method of the present disclosure.

[0037] Figure 2 is an example of an existing refrigerant cycle device 200.

[0038] Figure 3It is the first step (step S001) of the setting method of the existing refrigerant cycle device 200.

[0039] Figure 4 It is the second step (step S002) of the setting method of the existing refrigerant cycle device 200.

[0040] Figure 5 It is the third step (step S003) of the setting method of the existing refrigerant cycle device 200.

[0041] Figure 6 It is the fourth step (step S004) of the setting method of the existing refrigerant cycle device 200.

[0042] Figure 7 It is the first step (step S101) of the setting method of the first embodiment.

[0043] Figure 8 It is the second step (step S102) of the setting method of the first embodiment.

[0044] Figure 9 It is the third step (step S103) of the setting method of the first embodiment.

[0045] Figure 10 It is the fourth step (step S104) of the setting method of the first embodiment.

[0046] Figure 11 It is the fifth step (step S105) of the setting method of the first embodiment.

[0047] Figure 12 It is the sixth step (step S106) of the setting method of the first embodiment.

[0048] Figure 13 It is the seventh step (step S107) of the setting method of the first embodiment.

[0049] Figure 14 It is the eighth step (step S108) of the setting method of the first embodiment.

[0050] Figure 15 It is the ninth step (step S109) of the setting method of the first embodiment.

[0051] Figure 16 It is the first step (step S201) of the setting method of the second embodiment.

[0052] Figure 17 It is the second step (step S202) of the setting method of the second embodiment.

[0053] Figure 18It is the third step (step S203) of the setting method of the second embodiment.

[0054] Figure 19 It is the fourth step (step S204) of the setting method of the second embodiment.

[0055] Figure 20 It is the fifth step (step S205) of the setting method of the second embodiment.

[0056] Figure 21 It is the sixth step (step S206) of the setting method of the second embodiment.

[0057] Figure 22 It is the seventh step (step S207) of the setting method of the second embodiment.

[0058] Figure 23 It is the eighth step (step S208) of the setting method of the second embodiment.

[0059] Figure 24 It is the ninth step (step S209) of the setting method of the second embodiment.

[0060] Figure 25 It is the first step (step S301) of the setting method of the third embodiment.

[0061] Figure 26 It is the second step (step S302) of the setting method of the third embodiment.

[0062] Figure 27 It is the third step (step S303) of the setting method of the third embodiment.

[0063] Figure 28 It is the fourth step (step S304) of the setting method of the third embodiment.

[0064] Figure 29 It is the fifth step (step S305) of the setting method of the third embodiment.

[0065] Figure 30 It is the sixth step (step S306) of the setting method of the third embodiment.

[0066] Figure 31 It is the seventh step (step S307) of the setting method of the third embodiment.

[0067] Figure 32 It is the eighth step (step S308) of the setting method of the third embodiment.

[0068] Figure 33 It is the third step (step S309) of the setting method of the third embodiment. Detailed implementation manners

[0069] <Basic matters>

[0070] (1) Refrigerant

[0071] In the present disclosure, two refrigerants, i.e., a first refrigerant R1 and a second refrigerant R2, are used.

[0072] The first refrigerant R1 has a first GWP coefficient and has at least one of flammability and toxicity. Herein, the "flammability" referred to in this specification includes Class A2L ("slightly flammable"), Class A2 ("flammable"), and Class A3 ("highly flammable") in the safety classification defined in ISO 817. And the "toxicity" referred to in this specification includes Class B2L, Class B2, and Class B3 in the safety classification defined in ISO 817.

[0073] The second refrigerant R2 has a second GWP coefficient and has at least one of non-flammability and non-toxicity. The second GWP coefficient is greater than the first GWP coefficient. The second refrigerant R2 may also be a mixed refrigerant containing the same components as the first refrigerant R1.

[0074] The first refrigerant R1 is, for example, R32. The second refrigerant R2 is, for example, R410A.

[0075] (2) Refrigerant cycle device 100 provided

[0076] Figure 1 Shows the structure of the refrigerant cycle device 100 provided by the setting method of the present disclosure. The refrigerant cycle device 100 circulates the second refrigerant R2 to provide cold, heat or warm to the user. The refrigerant cycle device 100 may be configured as all products including, for example, an air conditioner, a refrigerator, a freezer, a water heater or a floor heating device. In the present disclosure, the case where the refrigerant cycle device 100 is an air conditioner is described.

[0077] The refrigerant cycle device 100 has a utilization unit 10, a connection pipe 20, a first heat source unit 30 and a remote controller 40.

[0078] (2-1) Utilization unit 10

[0079] The refrigerant cycle device 100 has one or more utilization units 10. The utilization unit 10 is provided in the room used by the user. One utilization unit 10 has an expansion valve 11 for utilization, a heat exchanger 12 for utilization and a fan 13 for utilization.

[0080] (2-1-1) Expansion valve 11 for utilization

[0081] The flow rate of the second refrigerant R2 is controlled by the expansion valve 11. In addition, the expansion valve 11 functions as a decompression device for the second refrigerant R2, whereby, for example, the second refrigerant R2 in a liquid state can be changed to a second refrigerant R2 in a gas-liquid two-phase state.

[0082] (2-1-2) Using the heat exchanger 12

[0083] Heat exchange between the second refrigerant R2 and air is performed using the heat exchanger 12. When the refrigerant cycle device 100 performs a refrigeration operation, the heat exchanger 12 functions as an evaporator or a heat absorber for the second refrigerant R2. When the refrigerant cycle device 100 performs a heating operation, the heat exchanger 12 functions as a condenser or a radiator for the second refrigerant R2.

[0084] (2-1-3) Using the fan 13

[0085] The fan 13 generates an air flow passing through the heat exchanger 12, thereby promoting heat exchange using the heat exchanger 12.

[0086] (2-2) Connecting pipe 20

[0087] The connecting pipe 20 connects the utilization unit 10 and the first heat source unit 30. The connecting pipe 20 has a liquid refrigerant pipe 21 and a gas refrigerant pipe 22. The liquid refrigerant pipe 21 mainly guides the second refrigerant R2 in a liquid state or a gas-liquid two-phase state, for example. The gas refrigerant pipe 22 mainly guides the second refrigerant R2 in a gas state, for example.

[0088] (2-3) First heat source unit 30

[0089] The first heat source unit 30 is provided outside the room used by the user, typically outdoors. The first heat source unit 30 has a compressor 31, a four-way switching valve 32, a heat source heat exchanger 33, a heat source fan 34, a heat source expansion valve 35, a liquid refrigerant port 36, a gas refrigerant port 37, and a first lubricating oil L1.

[0090] (2-3-1) Compressor 31

[0091] The compressor 31 sucks in the second refrigerant R2 in a low-pressure gas state and discharges the second refrigerant R2 in a high-pressure gas state.

[0092] (2-3-2) Four-way switching valve 32

[0093] The four-way switching valve 32 changes the pipe connection. In the case of a refrigeration operation, the four-way switching valve 32 achieves the connection shown by the solid line in Figure 1 . In the case of a heating operation, the four-way switching valve 32 achieves the connection shown by the solid line in Figure 1The connection shown by the dashed line.

[0094] (2-3-3) Heat source heat exchanger 33

[0095] The heat source heat exchanger 33 performs heat exchange between the secondary refrigerant R2 and air. When the refrigerant cycle device 100 performs refrigeration operation, the heat source heat exchanger 33 functions as a condenser or radiator for the secondary refrigerant R2. When the refrigerant cycle device 100 performs heating operation, the heat source heat exchanger 33 functions as an evaporator or heat absorber for the secondary refrigerant R2.

[0096] (2-3-4) Heat source fan 34

[0097] The heat source fan 34 generates an air flow passing through the heat source heat exchanger 33, thereby promoting the heat exchange of the heat source heat exchanger 33.

[0098] (2-3-5) Heat source expansion valve 35

[0099] The heat source expansion valve 35 controls the flow rate of the secondary refrigerant R2. In addition, the heat source expansion valve 35 functions as a decompression device for the secondary refrigerant R2, whereby, for example, the secondary refrigerant R2 in a liquid state can be changed to a gas-liquid two-phase state of the secondary refrigerant R2.

[0100] The refrigerant cycle device 100 may sometimes have only one of the expansion valve 11 and the heat source expansion valve 35.

[0101] (2-3-6) Liquid refrigerant port 36

[0102] The liquid refrigerant port 36 is a valve that can be opened and closed. The liquid refrigerant port 36 is connected to the liquid refrigerant pipe 21. The liquid refrigerant port 36 is opened when the refrigerant cycle device 100 is in use. The liquid refrigerant port 36 is closed, for example, when the first heat source unit 30 is installed.

[0103] (2-3-7) Gas refrigerant port 37

[0104] The gas refrigerant port 37 is a valve that can be opened and closed. The gas refrigerant port 37 is connected to the gas refrigerant pipe 22. The gas refrigerant port 37 is opened when the refrigerant cycle device 100 is in use. The gas refrigerant port 37 is closed, for example, when the first heat source unit 30 is installed.

[0105] (2-3-8) First lubricating oil L1

[0106] The first heat source unit 30 houses the first lubricating oil L1 for lubricating the sliding parts of the compressor 31.

[0107] (2-4) Remote controller 40

[0108] The remote controller 40 is provided in a manner corresponding to each utilization unit 10. The remote controller 40 enables a user to give an instruction to the refrigerant cycle device 100. The remote controller 40 can communicate with the utilization unit 10.

[0109] (3) Existing refrigerant cycle device 200

[0110] Figure 2 is an example of an existing refrigerant cycle device 200 that has been in operation before the refrigerant cycle device 100 is installed. The existing refrigerant cycle device 200 is existing equipment.

[0111] The existing refrigerant cycle device 200 includes a utilization unit 10, a connection pipe 20, and a second heat source unit 90. The existing refrigerant cycle device 200 uses a second refrigerant R2.

[0112] The utilization unit 10 of the existing refrigerant cycle device 200 is the same as the utilization unit 10 included in the refrigerant cycle device 100.

[0113] The connection pipe 20 of the existing refrigerant cycle device 200 is the same as the connection pipe 20 included in the refrigerant cycle device 100.

[0114] The second heat source unit 90 of the existing refrigerant cycle device 200 is different from the first heat source unit 30 included in the refrigerant cycle device 100. The second heat source unit 90 includes a compressor 91, a four-way switching valve 32, a heat source heat exchanger 93, a heat source fan 94, a heat source expansion valve 95, a liquid refrigerant port 96, and a gas refrigerant port 97. These components have the same functions as the components of the first heat source unit 30. It is assumed that the second heat source unit 90 is a product of an older model than the first heat source unit 30.

[0115] In the second heat source unit 90, a second lubricating oil L2 for lubricating the sliding parts of the compressor 91 is stored.

[0116] (4) Method for installing the existing refrigerant cycle device 200

[0117] The existing refrigerant cycle device 200 is installed by the following method.

[0118] (4-1) First step (step S001)

[0119] As Figure 3 shown, the second heat source unit 90 waiting to be shipped from the factory F already stores a specified amount of the second refrigerant R2. This is because the second heat source unit 90 may be damaged during transportation if the refrigerant circuit of the second heat source unit 90 is evacuated or filled with air.

[0120] In factory F, there is a refrigerant storage container 51 for storing the second refrigerant R2 for additional filling. In this specification, the case where the number of refrigerant storage containers 51 is one is described. However, the number of refrigerant storage containers 51 can also be two or more.

[0121] In building B, one or more utilization units 10 and connecting pipes 20 are provided.

[0122] (4-2) Second step (step S002)

[0123] As Figure 4 shown, the second heat source unit 90 and the refrigerant storage container 51 are transported to building B. The connecting pipe 20 is connected to the liquid refrigerant port 96 and the gas refrigerant port 97 of the second heat source unit 90. Thus, the existing refrigerant circulation device 200 is constituted.

[0124] (4-3) Third step (step S003)

[0125] As Figure 5 shown, the second refrigerant R2 stored in the refrigerant storage container 51 is additionally filled into the second heat source unit 90.

[0126] (4-4) Fourth step (step S004)

[0127] As Figure 6 shown, the existing refrigerant circulation device 200 receives the second refrigerant R2 in the amount required for the entire existing refrigerant circulation device 200. Thus, the existing refrigerant circulation device 200 can be used.

[0128] <First Embodiment>

[0129] The installation method of the first embodiment will be described. In this installation method, the second heat source unit 90 included in the existing refrigerant circulation device 200 is replaced with a newly manufactured first heat source unit 30. Specifically, the refrigerant circulation device 100 is installed by the following method.

[0130] (1) Steps of the installation method

[0131] (1-1) First step (step S101)

[0132] As Figure 7 shown, in building B, there is an existing refrigerant circulation device 200 that uses the second refrigerant R2. The first heat source unit 30 waiting to be shipped from factory F stores a specified amount of the first refrigerant R1.

[0133] (1-2) Second step (step S102)

[0134] As Figure 8As shown, the first heat source unit 30 is transported to the building B. Around the building B, an empty first refrigerant storage container 51, a second refrigerant storage container 52, and a third refrigerant storage container 53 are prepared. In this specification, the case where the number of the first refrigerant storage container 51, the second refrigerant storage container 52, and the third refrigerant storage container 53 is all one is described. However, the number of them may also be two or more.

[0135] Next, the first refrigerant R1 is recovered from the first heat source unit 30. At this time, the gaseous first refrigerant R1 may also be recovered from the first heat source unit 30 via the gas refrigerant port 37. When recovering the first refrigerant R1, the first lubricating oil L1 stored in the first heat source unit 30 may remain in the first heat source unit 30. By recovering the gaseous first refrigerant R1, the liquid first lubricating oil L1 can remain in the first heat source unit 30.

[0136] The recovered first refrigerant R1 is regenerated by the refrigerant regeneration device 70. In this regeneration process, the refrigerant regeneration device 70 may also remove the water contained in the first refrigerant R1 from the first refrigerant R1.

[0137] The regenerated first refrigerant R1 is transferred from the refrigerant regeneration device 70 to the first refrigerant storage container 51.

[0138] (1-3) Third step (step S103)

[0139] As Figure 9 shown, the first refrigerant storage container 51 has completed the storage of the first refrigerant R1. There is almost no first refrigerant R1 left in the first heat source unit 30.

[0140] (1-4) Fourth step (step S104)

[0141] As Figure 10 shown, the second refrigerant R2 is recovered from the second heat source unit 90 of the existing refrigerant circulation device 200. At this time, the second refrigerant R2 is regenerated by the refrigerant regeneration device 70. In this regeneration process, the refrigerant regeneration device 70 removes at least one of the second lubricating oil L2 and water contained in the second refrigerant R2 from the second refrigerant R2. Preferably, the refrigerant regeneration device 70 removes the second lubricating oil L2 from the second refrigerant R2. The refrigerant regeneration device 70 may also remove both the second lubricating oil L2 and water from the second refrigerant R2.

[0142] The regenerated second refrigerant R2 is transferred from the refrigerant regeneration device 70 to the second refrigerant storage container 52 and the third refrigerant storage container 53.

[0143] (1-5) Fifth step (step S105)

[0144] As Figure 11 shown, the second refrigerant storage container 52 and the third refrigerant storage container 53 complete the storage of the second refrigerant R2. There is almost no second refrigerant R2 left in the second heat source unit 90.

[0145] (1 - 6) Sixth step (step S106)

[0146] As Figure 12 shown, the second heat source unit 90 is separated from the connection pipe 20 of the existing refrigerant circulation device 200. This separation does not necessarily involve the removal of the second heat source unit 90 and can be implemented by closing the liquid refrigerant port 96 and the gas refrigerant port 97 which are openable and closable valves.

[0147] Next, the first heat source unit 30 is connected to the connection pipe 20. Thus, the refrigerant circulation device 100 is constituted.

[0148] (1 - 7) Seventh step (step S107)

[0149] As Figure 13 shown, the regenerated second refrigerant R2 stored in the second refrigerant storage container 52 and the third refrigerant storage container 53 is stored in the first heat source unit 30.

[0150] (1 - 8) Eighth step (step S108)

[0151] As Figure 14 shown, the refrigerant circulation device 100 receives the second refrigerant R2 in the amount required for the entire refrigerant circulation device 100. Thus, the refrigerant circulation device 100 can be used.

[0152] (1 - 9) Ninth step (step S109)

[0153] As Figure 15 shown, a display S indicating the use of the second refrigerant R2 is added to at least a part of the utilization unit 10, the connection pipe 20, and the first heat source unit 30. The remote controller 40 may also have a display unit 41 for electrically displaying the use of the second refrigerant R2.

[0154] The display unit 41 can not only display the name of the second refrigerant R2, but also display at least a part of the properties of the second refrigerant R2 (such as flammability / non-flammability, toxicity / non-toxicity, specific gravity, etc.), the situation where the second refrigerant R2 stored in the refrigerant cycle device 100 is a refrigerant temporarily recovered from a certain refrigerant circuit, and the situation where the second refrigerant R2 stored in the refrigerant cycle device 100 is a regenerated refrigerant. In addition, the display unit 41 is not limited to displaying the above information as text, and can also be displayed in the form of a barcode or a QR code (registered trademark), etc.

[0155] (2) Setting of refrigerant type

[0156] The optimal operation of the refrigerant cycle device 100 (for example, the opening degree of the expansion valve and the rotational speed of the compressor) varies depending on the type of refrigerant used. Therefore, the control unit of the refrigerant cycle device 100 needs to know the type of refrigerant used.

[0157] In order to notify the control unit of the type of refrigerant, the refrigerant cycle device 100 may also be equipped with a refrigerant setting switch. In this case, the installer can notify the control unit of the type of refrigerant by manually switching the refrigerant setting switch. The control unit can change the operation of the refrigerant cycle device 100 according to the type of refrigerant specified by the refrigerant setting switch.

[0158] Alternatively, the control unit of the refrigerant cycle device 100 can also automatically identify the type of refrigerant. For example, the control unit can identify the type of refrigerant used by knowing the balance point of the refrigerant cycle.

[0159] (3) Features

[0160] (3-1)

[0161] According to the installation method of the present embodiment, in the refrigerant cycle device 100 composed of the new first heat source unit 30, the second refrigerant R2 can be used. Therefore, in an environment where the use of the flammable or toxic first refrigerant R1 is not allowed, a new type of refrigerant cycle device 100 can be installed.

[0162] (3-2)

[0163] According to the installation method of the present embodiment, a part of the existing refrigerant cycle device 200 can be used to form the new refrigerant cycle device 100. Therefore, the cost reduction of the refrigerant cycle device 100 can be achieved.

[0164] (3-3)

[0165] According to the setting method of the present embodiment, the second refrigerant R2 is stored in the second refrigerant storage container 52 and the third refrigerant storage container 53. Therefore, it is easy to grasp the amount of the recovered second refrigerant R2 according to the number of refrigerant storage containers used.

[0166] (3-4)

[0167] According to the setting method of the present embodiment, at least one of the second lubricating oil L2 and water is removed from the second refrigerant R2. Therefore, the recovered second refrigerant R2 can be reused in a device where the mixing of the second lubricating oil L2 or water is not allowed.

[0168] (3-5)

[0169] According to the setting method of the present embodiment, the first lubricating oil L1 may also remain in the first heat source unit 30. Therefore, when the second refrigerant R2 allows the use of the first lubricating oil L1, the setting cost can be reduced.

[0170] (3-6)

[0171] According to the setting method of the present embodiment, the first refrigerant R1 may also be recovered from the first heat source unit 30 in a gaseous state. Therefore, it is possible to suppress the situation where the first lubricating oil L1 stored in the first heat source unit 30 is taken out of the first heat source unit 30 together with the first refrigerant R1.

[0172] (3-7)

[0173] According to the setting method of the present embodiment, the first refrigerant R1 recovered from the first heat source unit 30 is regenerated. Therefore, the first refrigerant R1 can be reused.

[0174] (3-8)

[0175] According to the setting method of the present embodiment, by observing the display S or the display unit 41, the maintenance manager of the refrigerant cycle device 100 can easily understand that the second refrigerant R2 is used in the refrigerant cycle device 100. Therefore, it is possible to suppress the situation where the refrigerant cycle device 100 is used in the wrong way.

[0176] (3-9)

[0177] According to the setting method of the present embodiment, the second refrigerant R2 may also contain the same components as the first refrigerant R1. Therefore, the first refrigerant R1 recovered in the recovery step of the first refrigerant R1 can be reused in the refrigerant cycle device 100.

[0178] For example, consider the case where the first refrigerant R1 is R32 and the second refrigerant R2 is R410A. R410 is a mixture of R32 and R125. Therefore, as a raw material for the regenerated second refrigerant R2 (in other words, R410A) used in the refrigerant cycle device 100, the regenerated first refrigerant R1 (in other words, R32) recovered from the existing refrigerant cycle device 200 can be used.

[0179] In this way, by regenerating the recovered first refrigerant R1, the regenerated first refrigerant R1 can be used in different devices.

[0180] (3-10)

[0181] According to the setting method of the present embodiment, by regenerating the second refrigerant R2 recovered from the existing refrigerant cycle device 200, compared with the case where the setting method of the present embodiment is not used, the production amount of the second refrigerant R2 having a large second GWP coefficient can be reduced. Therefore, global warming can be suppressed.

[0182] (3-11)

[0183] The refrigerant cycle device 100 of the present embodiment uses the second refrigerant R2. Therefore, the refrigerant cycle device 100 using the new first heat source unit 30 can be used in an environment where the first refrigerant R1 is not allowed to be used.

[0184] (3-12)

[0185] By observing the display S or the display unit 41, the maintenance manager of the refrigerant cycle device 100 can easily obtain information related to the refrigerant used in the refrigerant cycle device 100 of the present embodiment. Therefore, the situation where the refrigerant cycle device 100 is used in a wrong way can be suppressed.

[0186] <Second Embodiment>

[0187] The setting method of the second embodiment will be described. This setting method is different from the first embodiment in that the first heat source unit 30 is used as a refrigerant storage container for storing the second refrigerant R2.

[0188] In the setting method of the second embodiment, similar to the first embodiment, the second heat source unit 90 included in the existing refrigerant cycle device 200 is replaced with a newly manufactured first heat source unit 30.

[0189] (1) Steps of the setting method

[0190] (1-1) First step (step S201)

[0191] As Figure 16As shown, an existing refrigerant circulation device 200 using a second refrigerant R2 is provided in a building B. A first heat source unit 30 waiting to be shipped from a factory F contains a specified amount of a first refrigerant R1.

[0192] (1-2) Second step (step S202)

[0193] As Figure 17 shown, the first heat source unit 30 is transported to the building B. Around the building B, an empty first refrigerant storage container 51 and a second refrigerant storage container 52 are prepared. In this specification, the case where the number of both the first refrigerant storage container 51 and the second refrigerant storage container 52 is one is described. However, the number of them may also be two or more.

[0194] Next, the first refrigerant R1 is recovered from the first heat source unit 30. At this time, the gaseous first refrigerant R1 may also be recovered from the first heat source unit 30 via the gas refrigerant port 37. When recovering the first refrigerant R1, the first lubricating oil L1 stored in the first heat source unit 30 may remain in the first heat source unit 30. By recovering the gaseous first refrigerant R1, the liquid first lubricating oil L1 can remain in the first heat source unit 30.

[0195] The recovered first refrigerant R1 is regenerated by a refrigerant regeneration device 70. In this regeneration process, the refrigerant regeneration device 70 may also remove the water contained in the first refrigerant R1 from the first refrigerant R1.

[0196] The regenerated first refrigerant R1 is transferred from the refrigerant regeneration device 70 to the first refrigerant storage container 51.

[0197] (1-3) Third step (step S203)

[0198] As Figure 18 shown, the first refrigerant storage container 51 has completed the storage of the first refrigerant R1. There is almost no first refrigerant R1 left in the first heat source unit 30.

[0199] (1-4) Fourth step (step S204)

[0200] As Figure 19 shown, the second refrigerant R2 is recovered from the second heat source unit 90 of the existing refrigerant circulation device 200. At this time, the second refrigerant R2 is regenerated by the refrigerant regeneration device 70. In this regeneration process, the refrigerant regeneration device 70 removes at least one of the second lubricating oil L2 and water contained in the second refrigerant R2 from the second refrigerant R2. Preferably, the refrigerant regeneration device 70 removes the second lubricating oil L2 from the second refrigerant R2. The refrigerant regeneration device 70 may also remove both the second lubricating oil L2 and water from the second refrigerant R2.

[0201] The regenerated secondary refrigerant R2 is transferred from the refrigerant regeneration device 70 to the first heat source unit 30 and the secondary refrigerant storage container 52.

[0202] (1-5) Fifth step (step S205)

[0203] As Figure 20 shown, the first heat source unit 30 and the secondary refrigerant storage container 52 complete the storage of the secondary refrigerant R2. There is almost no secondary refrigerant R2 left in the second heat source unit 90.

[0204] (1-6) Sixth step (step S206)

[0205] As Figure 21 shown, the second heat source unit 90 is disconnected from the connection pipe 20 of the existing refrigerant circulation device 200. Then, the first heat source unit 30 is connected to the connection pipe 20. Thus, the refrigerant circulation device 100 is constituted.

[0206] (1-7) Seventh step (step S207)

[0207] As Figure 22 shown, the regenerated secondary refrigerant R2 stored in the secondary refrigerant storage container 52 is additionally stored in the first heat source unit 30.

[0208] (1-8) Eighth step (step S208)

[0209] As Figure 23 shown, the refrigerant circulation device 100 receives the required amount of the secondary refrigerant R2 for the entire refrigerant circulation device 100. Thus, the refrigerant circulation device 100 can be used.

[0210] (1-9) Ninth step (step S209)

[0211] As Figure 24 shown, a display S indicating the use of the secondary refrigerant R2 is attached to at least a part of the utilization unit 10, the connection pipe 20, and the first heat source unit 30. The remote controller 40 may also have a display unit 41 for electrically displaying the use of the secondary refrigerant R2. The content and manner of the information displayed on the display unit 41 are the same as those in the first embodiment.

[0212] (2) Setting of refrigerant type

[0213] The setting of the refrigerant type in the second embodiment is the same as that in the first embodiment.

[0214] (3) Features

[0215] According to the setting method of the present embodiment, the first heat source unit 30 is used as a storage container for the second refrigerant R2. Therefore, the number of refrigerant storage containers required for setting the refrigerant cycle device 100 can be reduced, and thus the setting cost can be lowered.

[0216] <Third Embodiment>

[0217] The setting method of the third embodiment will be described. In this setting method, different from the first and second embodiments, the second refrigerant R2 recovered from another system refrigerant cycle device 300 that does not share components with the refrigerant cycle device 100 is used in the refrigerant cycle device 100. The other system refrigerant cycle device 300 is an existing device. The refrigerant cycle device 100 is set by the following method.

[0218] (1) Steps of the setting method

[0219] (1-1) First step (step S301)

[0220] As Figure 25 shown, another system refrigerant cycle device 300 that uses the second refrigerant R2 is provided in the building C. The other system refrigerant cycle device 300 has a utilization unit 310, a connection pipe 320, and a third heat source unit 390.

[0221] (1-2) Second step (step S302)

[0222] As Figure 26 shown, an empty first refrigerant storage container 51 and a second refrigerant storage container 52 are prepared around the building C. In this specification, the case where the number of both the first refrigerant storage container 51 and the second refrigerant storage container 52 is one will be described. However, the number of them may also be two or more.

[0223] Next, the second refrigerant R2 is recovered from the third heat source unit 390. The recovered second refrigerant R2 is regenerated by the refrigerant regeneration device 70. The regenerated second refrigerant R2 is transferred from the refrigerant regeneration device 70 to the first refrigerant storage container 51 and the second refrigerant storage container 52.

[0224] (1-3) Third step (step S303)

[0225] As Figure 27 shown, the first refrigerant storage container 51 and the second refrigerant storage container 52 are completed in receiving the second refrigerant R2.

[0226] (1-4) Fourth step (step S304)

[0227] As Figure 28As shown, the first refrigerant storage container 51 and the second refrigerant storage container 52 are transported to the periphery of the building B. In addition, an empty third refrigerant storage container 53 and a fourth refrigerant storage container 54 are prepared at the periphery of the building B. In this specification, the case where the number of both the third refrigerant storage container 53 and the fourth refrigerant storage container 54 is one is described. However, the number of them may also be two or more.

[0228] In the building B, a refrigerant circulation device 100 is set up using a new first heat source unit 30. The refrigerant circulation device 100 is filled with a first refrigerant R1.

[0229] (1-5) Fifth step (step S305)

[0230] As Figure 29 shown, the first refrigerant R1 is recovered from the first heat source unit 30 of the refrigerant circulation device 100. When recovering the first refrigerant R1, the first lubricating oil L1 stored in the first heat source unit 30 may also remain in the first heat source unit 30.

[0231] The recovered first refrigerant R1 is regenerated by a refrigerant regeneration device 70. In this regeneration process, the refrigerant regeneration device 70 may also remove the water contained in the first refrigerant R1 from the first refrigerant R1.

[0232] (1-6) Sixth step (step S306)

[0233] As Figure 30 shown, the regenerated first refrigerant R1 is transferred from the refrigerant regeneration device 70 to the third refrigerant storage container 53 and the fourth refrigerant storage container 54. There is almost no first refrigerant R1 left in the first heat source unit 30.

[0234] (1-7) Seventh step (step S307)

[0235] As Figure 31 shown, the regenerated second refrigerant R2 stored in the first refrigerant storage container 51 and the second refrigerant storage container 52 is stored in the first heat source unit 30.

[0236] (1-8) Eighth step (step S308)

[0237] As Figure 32 shown, the refrigerant circulation device 100 receives the required amount of the second refrigerant R2 for the entire refrigerant circulation device 100. Thereby, the refrigerant circulation device 100 can be used.

[0238] (1-9) Ninth step (step S309)

[0239] As Figure 33As shown, a display S indicating the use of the second refrigerant R2 is attached to at least a part of the utilization unit 10, the connection pipe 20, and the first heat source unit 30. The remote controller 40 may also have a display unit 41 for electrically displaying the case where the second refrigerant R2 is used. The content and manner of the information displayed on the display unit 41 are the same as those in the first embodiment.

[0240] (2) Setting of refrigerant type

[0241] The setting of the refrigerant type in the third embodiment is the same as that in the first embodiment.

[0242] (3) Features

[0243] According to the setting method of the present embodiment, a new refrigerant cycle device 100 can be newly set as a whole by using the new first heat source unit 30.

[0244] <Summary>

[0245] The embodiments of the present disclosure have been described above, but it should be understood that various changes in the manner and details can be made without departing from the gist and scope of the present disclosure described in the claims.

[0246] Reference numeral description

[0247] 10: Utilization unit; 20: Connection pipe; 30: First heat source unit; 36: Liquid refrigerant port; 37: Gas refrigerant port; 40: Remote controller; 41: Display unit; 51: First refrigerant storage container (refrigerant storage container); 52: Second refrigerant storage container (refrigerant storage container); 53: Third refrigerant storage container (refrigerant storage container); 54: Fourth refrigerant storage container (refrigerant storage container); 70: Refrigerant regeneration device; 90: Second heat source unit; 100: Refrigerant circulation device; 200: Existing refrigerant circulation device (existing equipment); 300: Other system refrigerant circulation device (existing equipment); 310: Utilization unit (component); 320: Connection pipe (component); 390: Third heat source unit (component); L1: First lubricating oil; L2: Second lubricating oil; R1: First refrigerant; R2: Second refrigerant; S: Display; S001: Step; S002: Step; S003: Step; S004: Step; S101: Step; S102: Step (First refrigerant recovery step) (First refrigerant regeneration step); S103: Step; S104: Step (Second refrigerant recovery and regeneration step); S105: Step; S106: Step (Disconnection step) (Connection step); S107: Step (Second refrigerant storage step); S108: Step; S109: Step (Second refrigerant display step); S201: Step; S202: Step (First refrigerant recovery step) (First refrigerant regeneration step); S203: Step; S204: Step (Second refrigerant storage step) (Second refrigerant recovery and regeneration step); S205: Step; S206: Step (Disconnection step) (Connection step); S207: Step (Second refrigerant storage step); S208: Step; S209: Step (Second refrigerant display step); S301: Step; S302: Step (Second refrigerant recovery and regeneration step); S303: Step; S304: Step; S305: Step (First refrigerant recovery step) (First refrigerant regeneration step); S306: Step; S307: Step (Second refrigerant accommodation step); S308: Step; S309: Step (Second refrigerant display step).

[0248] Prior art documents

[0249] Patent documents

[0250] Patent Document 1: European Patent Publication Gazette EP3505842A1

Claims

1. A method for installing a refrigerant cycle device (100) at a user's location, the refrigerant cycle device (100) having a first heat source unit (30), a utilization unit (10), and a connecting pipe (20), the installation method comprising the following steps performed at the user's location: A first refrigerant recovery step of recovering a first refrigerant (R1) from the first heat source unit, the first refrigerant (R1) having a first GWP coefficient and having at least one of flammability and toxicity; A second refrigerant recovery and regeneration step of recovering a second refrigerant (R2) from an existing device and regenerating the second refrigerant, the existing device being an existing refrigerant cycle device (200) having a second heat source unit (90), the utilization unit, and the connecting pipe, the second refrigerant having a second GWP coefficient and having at least one of non-flammability and non-toxicity; A separation step of separating the second heat source unit from the existing refrigerant cycle device; A connection step of forming the refrigerant cycle device by connecting the first heat source unit from which the first refrigerant has been recovered to the connecting pipe; And A second refrigerant storage step of storing the second refrigerant (R2) recovered and regenerated from the existing device in the first heat source unit.

2. The installation method according to claim 1, Wherein, In the second refrigerant recovery and regeneration step, the second refrigerant is at least stored in a refrigerant storage container.

3. The installation method according to claim 1 or 2, Wherein, In the second refrigerant recovery and regeneration step, the second refrigerant is at least stored in the first heat source unit.

4. The installation method according to claim 1 or 2, Wherein, In the second refrigerant recovery and regeneration step, at least one of the second lubricating oil (L2) and water contained in the second refrigerant is removed from the second refrigerant.

5. The installation method according to claim 1 or 2, Wherein, In the first refrigerant recovery step, the first lubricating oil (L1) stored in the first heat source unit remains in the first heat source unit.

6. The installation method according to claim 1 or 2, Wherein, The first heat source unit has a gas refrigerant port (37) and a liquid refrigerant port (36), In the first refrigerant recovery step, the first refrigerant is recovered from the first heat source unit via the gas refrigerant port.

7. The installation method according to claim 1 or 2, Wherein, The installation method further comprises a first refrigerant regeneration step in which the first refrigerant recovered in the first refrigerant recovery step is regenerated.

8. The installation method according to claim 1 or 2, Wherein, The installation method further comprises a second refrigerant display step in which at least a display (S) indicating the use of the second refrigerant is added to the first heat source unit.

9. The installation method according to claim 1 or 2, Wherein, The second refrigerant is a mixed refrigerant containing the same components as the first refrigerant.

10. The setting method according to claim 1 or 2, wherein, the second GWP coefficient is greater than the first GWP coefficient.

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