Refrigeration cycle device and refrigeration cycle system

Abstract

A refrigeration cycle device of the present application includes a first heat exchanger, a compressor, a second heat exchanger, and an expansion mechanism, and has: a refrigerant pipe having copper as a main component, which connects the first heat exchanger, the compressor, the second heat exchanger, and the expansion mechanism, for circulating a refrigerant; an ACM (Atmospheric Corrosion Monitor) sensor for detecting a corrosion current, which is arranged at least one of an outer side surface of the refrigerant pipe and around the refrigerant pipe; and a processing section for judging corrosion of the refrigerant pipe based on a change in the corrosion current detected by the ACM sensor.

Description

Technical Field

[0001] This invention relates to a refrigeration cycle device and a refrigeration cycle system. Background Technology

[0002] As a refrigeration cycle device, for example, an absorption chiller capable of detecting localized corrosion is disclosed in Patent Document 1.

[0003] Patent Document 1 discloses an absorption chiller equipped with a corrosion detection device for detecting corrosion of the constituent material of the chiller's inner wall. The corrosion detection device for the chiller described in Patent Document 1 includes: a pair of electrodes arranged in an absorbent solution immersed within the equipment; a measuring device for measuring the current flowing between the electrodes; and an alarm device that issues an alarm when the measured current exceeds a predetermined value.

[0004] Existing technical documents

[0005] Patent documents

[0006] Patent Document 1: Japanese Patent Application Publication No. 2008-286441 Summary of the Invention

[0007] The technical problem that the invention aims to solve

[0008] However, the refrigeration machine described in Patent Document 1 still has room for improvement in terms of increasing the accuracy of corrosion detection.

[0009] Therefore, the purpose of this invention is to solve the above-mentioned technical problems and provide a refrigeration cycle device and refrigeration cycle system that can improve the detection accuracy of corrosion.

[0010] Technical means for solving technical problems

[0011] A refrigeration cycle apparatus according to one aspect of the present invention includes a first heat exchanger, a compressor, a second heat exchanger, and an expansion mechanism, wherein the refrigeration cycle apparatus has:

[0012] The refrigerant piping, with copper as the main component, connects the first heat exchanger, the compressor, the second heat exchanger, and the expansion mechanism to circulate the refrigerant.

[0013] An ACM (Atmospheric Corrosion Monitor) sensor for detecting corrosion current, disposed on at least one of the outer surface of the refrigerant piping and around the refrigerant piping; and

[0014] The corrosion treatment unit determines the corrosion of the refrigerant piping based on the change in corrosion current detected by the ACM sensor.

[0015] One aspect of the refrigeration cycle system of the present invention includes:

[0016] A refrigeration cycle device including a first heat exchanger, a compressor, a second heat exchanger, and an expansion mechanism; and

[0017] A processing device that communicates with the refrigeration cycle unit via a network.

[0018] The refrigeration cycle device has:

[0019] The refrigerant piping, with copper as the main component, connects the first heat exchanger, the compressor, the second heat exchanger, and the expansion mechanism to circulate the refrigerant.

[0020] An ACM (Atmospheric Corrosion Monitor) sensor for detecting corrosion current, disposed on at least one of the outer surface of the refrigerant piping and around the refrigerant piping.

[0021] A storage unit that stores information about the corrosion current detected by the ACM sensor; and

[0022] A first communication unit that transmits information about the corrosion current stored in the storage unit via the network.

[0023] The processing device has:

[0024] A second communication unit that receives information about the corrosion current via the network; and

[0025] The corrosion treatment section determines the corrosion of the refrigerant piping based on the change in the corrosion current.

[0026] The effects of the invention

[0027] According to the present invention, the detection accuracy of corrosion can be improved. Attached Figure Description

[0028] Figure 1 This is a schematic diagram of an example of a refrigeration cycle apparatus according to Embodiment 1 of the present invention.

[0029] Figure 2 This is a schematic diagram of the ACM sensor according to Embodiment 1.

[0030] Figure 3 This is a cross-sectional view of the ACM sensor with a water film according to Embodiment 1.

[0031] Figure 4A This is a graph showing the relationship between the corrosion current detected by the ACM sensor in Embodiment 1 and the elapsed time.

[0032] Figure 4Byes Figure 4A A magnified view of a portion of the corrosion current.

[0033] Figure 5 This is a schematic diagram of the first heat exchanger according to Embodiment 2 of the present invention.

[0034] Figure 6 This is a cross-sectional view of the bent portion with an ACM sensor in Embodiment 2.

[0035] Figure 7 This is a cross-sectional view of the bent portion with an ACM sensor in Modification 1 of Embodiment 2.

[0036] Figure 8 This is a block diagram of the refrigeration cycle device according to Embodiment 3 of the present invention.

[0037] Figure 9 This is a block diagram of the refrigeration cycle system according to Embodiment 4 of the present invention. Detailed Implementation

[0038] (How the present invention was obtained)

[0039] In refrigeration cycle systems, the refrigerant piping that circulates the refrigerant is made of materials, for example, primarily copper. Copper is typically a highly corrosion-resistant metal.

[0040] However, under specific conditions and within a short period, corrosion can progress rapidly in refrigerant piping primarily composed of copper, potentially penetrating the piping. For example, when formaldehyde contained in adhesives used in building materials oxidizes around the refrigerant piping, termite corrosion, which creates voids within the piping, can easily occur. Additionally, the presence of ammonia around areas of bending stress in the refrigerant piping can easily lead to stress corrosion cracking. Therefore, to prevent corrosion from penetrating the refrigerant piping, it is necessary to improve the accuracy of corrosion detection in refrigeration cycle systems.

[0041] Therefore, the inventors of this invention studied the structure of a refrigeration cycle device that uses an ACM sensor to detect corrosion of refrigerant piping. Furthermore, the inventors conducted in-depth research on the changes in corrosion current detected by the ACM sensor using this structure, and found that corrosion of refrigerant piping, primarily composed of copper, can be detected with high precision based on changes in corrosion current.

[0042] Based on this new knowledge, the inventors of this invention have completed the following invention.

[0043] The refrigeration cycle apparatus of the first embodiment of the present invention includes a first heat exchanger, a compressor, a second heat exchanger, and an expansion mechanism, wherein the refrigeration cycle apparatus has:

[0044] A refrigerant piping system with copper as the main component connects the first heat exchanger, the compressor, the second heat exchanger, and the expansion mechanism to circulate the refrigerant.

[0045] An ACM (Atmospheric Corrosion Monitor) sensor for detecting corrosion current, disposed on at least one of the outer surface of the refrigerant piping and around the refrigerant piping; and

[0046] The corrosion treatment unit determines the corrosion of the refrigerant piping based on the change in corrosion current detected by the ACM sensor.

[0047] By adopting this structure, the detection accuracy of refrigerant piping corrosion can be improved.

[0048] The refrigeration cycle apparatus of the second aspect of the present invention may also be configured such that the ACM sensor is disposed in the refrigerant piping, which is disposed in at least one of the first heat exchanger and the second heat exchanger.

[0049] By adopting such a structure, the detection accuracy of corrosion of refrigerant piping configured in at least one of the first and second heat exchangers can be improved.

[0050] The refrigeration cycle device of the third aspect of the present invention may also be configured such that the refrigerant piping disposed in at least one of the first heat exchanger and the second heat exchanger has a bend, and the ACM sensor is disposed in the bend.

[0051] By adopting such a structure, the detection accuracy of corrosion at the bends of the refrigerant piping configured in at least one of the first and second heat exchangers can be improved.

[0052] The cooling cycle apparatus of the fourth embodiment of the present invention can also be configured such that the ACM sensor includes:

[0053] A conductive substrate;

[0054] An insulating layer, which is an electrically insulating material, is laminated onto the substrate; and

[0055] A cathode electrode with a higher surface potential than the substrate is laminated in the insulating layer.

[0056] The main components of the substrate are the same as those of the refrigerant piping.

[0057] By adopting such a structure and using the same constituent materials as the refrigerant piping to form the substrate, the detection accuracy of refrigerant piping corrosion can be further improved.

[0058] The refrigeration cycle apparatus of the fifth aspect of the present invention may also be configured such that the thickness of the substrate is approximately the same as the thickness of the refrigerant piping.

[0059] By adopting such a structure, the detection accuracy of stress corrosion cracks in refrigerant piping can be improved.

[0060] The refrigeration cycle apparatus of the sixth aspect of the present invention may also be configured such that the substrate is formed from a portion of the refrigerant piping.

[0061] By adopting this structure, the actual corrosion of refrigerant piping can be detected, further improving the detection accuracy of refrigerant piping corrosion.

[0062] The refrigeration cycle apparatus of the seventh embodiment of the present invention may also be configured to further include: a display unit that displays the corrosion determination result of the refrigerant piping obtained by the processing unit.

[0063] By adopting such a structure, the results of the corrosion assessment can be displayed to the user, prompting them to take corrosion countermeasures.

[0064] The refrigeration cycle apparatus of the eighth embodiment of the present invention can also be configured such that the processing unit detects an increasing interval in which the time derivative value of the corrosion current increases above a threshold, and a decreasing interval in which the corrosion current decreases immediately following the increasing interval.

[0065] When the rising interval is less than 1 second and the decreasing interval is more than 1 second but less than 30 seconds, the corrosion of the refrigerant piping is determined.

[0066] By adopting such a structure, the processing unit can determine the corrosion of the refrigerant piping based on changes in corrosion current.

[0067] The refrigeration cycle device of the ninth aspect of the present invention may also be configured such that the threshold is 5 μA / s.

[0068] By employing this structure, the processing unit can determine refrigerant piping corrosion when the time derivative of the corrosion current in the rising range increases above 5 μA / s. This further improves the detection accuracy of corrosion in refrigerant piping primarily composed of copper.

[0069] The refrigeration cycle device of the tenth embodiment of the present invention may also be configured to include a four-way valve for changing the flow direction of the refrigerant in the refrigerant piping.

[0070] By adopting such a structure, for example, the detection accuracy of corrosion in air conditioners can be improved.

[0071] The refrigeration cycle system of the eleventh aspect of the present invention includes:

[0072] A refrigeration cycle device including a first heat exchanger, a compressor, a second heat exchanger, and an expansion mechanism; and

[0073] A processing device that communicates with the refrigeration cycle unit via a network.

[0074] The refrigeration cycle device has:

[0075] A refrigerant piping system with copper as the main component connects the first heat exchanger, the compressor, the second heat exchanger, and the expansion mechanism to circulate the refrigerant.

[0076] An ACM (Atmospheric Corrosion Monitor) sensor for detecting corrosion current, disposed on at least one of the outer surface of the refrigerant piping and around the refrigerant piping;

[0077] A storage unit that stores information about the corrosion current detected by the ACM sensor; and

[0078] A first communication unit that transmits information about the corrosion current stored in the storage unit via the network.

[0079] The processing device has:

[0080] A second communication unit that receives information about the corrosion current via the network; and

[0081] The corrosion treatment section determines the corrosion of the refrigerant piping based on the change in the corrosion current.

[0082] By adopting such a structure, the detection accuracy of refrigerant piping corrosion in the refrigeration cycle unit can be improved, and the information of corrosion current detected by the ACM sensor can be transmitted from the refrigeration cycle unit to other units.

[0083] (Implementation Method 1)

[0084] The refrigeration cycle apparatus according to Embodiment 1 of the present invention will be described. In the following description, an air conditioner in refrigeration operation will be described as an example of the refrigeration cycle apparatus of Embodiment 1, but the refrigeration cycle apparatus is not limited to an air conditioner.

[0085] (Overall structure)

[0086] Figure 1 This is a schematic diagram illustrating an example of a refrigeration cycle apparatus 1 according to Embodiment 1 of the present invention. (See attached diagram.) Figure 1As shown, the refrigeration cycle device 1 includes: a first heat exchanger 2, a compressor 3, a second heat exchanger 4, an expansion mechanism 5, a refrigerant piping 6, a four-way valve 8, an ACM (Atmospheric Corrosion Monitor) sensor 11, and a processing unit 12.

[0087] In the refrigeration cycle unit 1, the first heat exchanger 2 and a portion of the refrigerant piping 6 constitute the indoor unit 9, which is located indoors. On the other hand, the compressor 3, the second heat exchanger 4, the expansion mechanism 5, the four-way valve 8, and a portion of the refrigerant piping 6 constitute the outdoor unit 10, which is located outdoors.

[0088] (Heat Exchanger 1)

[0089] The first heat exchanger 2 includes: fins; refrigerant piping 6 disposed inside the first heat exchanger 2; and an indoor fan. The fins are composed of multiple thin metal plates arranged with the surfaces of the plates parallel to each other. The fins are used for heat exchange with air. The refrigerant piping 6 is arranged in a bent configuration that repeatedly penetrates the fins orthogonally to their surfaces, causing the refrigerant flowing into the first heat exchanger 2 to evaporate. The indoor fan blows the air, whose temperature has been regulated by the first heat exchanger 2, into the room.

[0090] (compressor)

[0091] The compressor 3 is connected to the first heat exchanger 2 and the four-way valve 8 via the refrigerant piping 6. The compressor 3 is used to compress the refrigerant flowing in from the refrigerant piping 6 on the side of the first heat exchanger 2.

[0092] (Second heat exchanger)

[0093] The second heat exchanger 4 includes: fins; refrigerant piping 6 disposed inside the second heat exchanger 4; and an outdoor fan. The fins have the same construction as the fins of the first heat exchanger 2. The refrigerant piping 6 is configured to bend in a manner orthogonal to the plane of the fins and repeatedly penetrates the fins, causing the refrigerant flowing into the second heat exchanger 4 to condense. The outdoor fan blows the air, whose temperature has been regulated by the second heat exchanger 4, outdoors.

[0094] (Expansion Mechanism)

[0095] The expansion mechanism 5 is connected to the first heat exchanger 2 and the second heat exchanger 4 via refrigerant piping 6. The expansion mechanism 5 is used to expand the refrigerant flowing in from the refrigerant piping 6 on the side of the second heat exchanger 4. For example, the expansion mechanism 5 is an expansion valve.

[0096] (Refrigerant piping)

[0097] The refrigerant piping 6 is configured to connect the first heat exchanger 2, the compressor 3, the four-way valve 8, the second heat exchanger 4, and the expansion mechanism 5. Furthermore, the refrigerant piping 6 forms part of both the first heat exchanger 2 and the second heat exchanger 4. For example, the refrigerant piping 6 is configured to connect the first heat exchanger 2, the compressor 3, the four-way valve 8, the second heat exchanger 4, and the expansion mechanism 5 sequentially.

[0098] The refrigerant piping 6 has a flow path for the refrigerant to flow inside the refrigerant piping 6, allowing the refrigerant to circulate. For example, the refrigerant piping 6 has a hollow cylindrical shape.

[0099] The refrigerant piping 6 is primarily composed of copper. The material constituting the refrigerant piping 6 contains 80 wt% or more copper. Preferably, the material constituting the refrigerant piping 6 contains 95 wt% or more copper. More preferably, the material constituting the refrigerant piping 6 contains 99 wt% or more copper. Additionally, the material constituting the refrigerant piping 6 may contain 0.015 wt% to 0.40 wt% phosphorus. Examples of materials constituting the refrigerant piping 6 include oxygen-free copper C1020, phosphorus-deoxidized copper C1220, and high-phosphorus-deoxidized copper C1260. Furthermore, depending on the amount of phosphorus added to the copper in the refrigerant piping 6, corrosion resistance can be improved. For example, when the refrigerant piping 6 is formed of high-phosphorus-deoxidized copper C1260, resistance to termite corrosion (antite corrosion resistance) that creates voids within the refrigerant piping 6 is improved.

[0100] (Four-way valve)

[0101] The four-way valve 8 is connected to the compressor 3, the first heat exchanger 2, and the second heat exchanger 4 via the refrigerant piping 6. During refrigeration operation, the four-way valve 8 delivers the refrigerant flowing from the compressor 3 to the second heat exchanger 4. On the other hand, the four-way valve 8 changes the direction of refrigerant flow according to the operating mode of the refrigeration cycle device 1 (refrigeration operation, heating operation).

[0102] (ACM sensor)

[0103] The ACM sensor 11 reproduces the corrosion of the refrigerant piping 6 and detects the corrosion current based on the reproduced corrosion. The ACM sensor 11 can also continuously and quantitatively measure the corrosion current from the start of use of the refrigeration cycle unit 1. For example, the ACM sensor 11 measures the corrosion current every 0.1 seconds.

[0104] The ACM sensor 11 is disposed on the outer surface of the refrigerant pipe 6. In Embodiment 1, the ACM sensor 11 is disposed on the outer surface of the refrigerant pipe 6 of the first heat exchanger 2.

[0105] To ensure the corrosive environment of the ACM sensor 11 matches that of the refrigerant piping 6, the ACM sensor 11 is attached to the refrigerant piping 6. That is, the ACM sensor 11 is attached to the area of ​​the refrigerant piping 6 where corrosion is to be detected. The ACM sensor 11 can also be deformed to fit the shape of the outer surface of the refrigerant piping 6. In other words, the ACM sensor 11 can be flexible. For example, the ACM sensor 11 can be attached to the refrigerant piping 6 by attaching an adhesive layer to the back of the ACM sensor 11, by using adhesive, by brazing, welding, spot welding, etc. Alternatively, the ACM sensor 11 can be attached to the refrigerant piping 6 by inserting it into the housing of the refrigerant piping 6.

[0106] The dimensions of the ACM sensor 11 can be designed according to the installation location and installation method.

[0107] Figure 2 This is a schematic diagram of the ACM sensor 11 according to Embodiment 1. (As shown...) Figure 2 As shown, the ACM sensor 11 includes a substrate 13, an insulating layer 14, a cathode electrode 15, a wire 20, and an insulating protective layer 21.

[0108] The substrate 13 is formed of a conductive material. For example, the substrate 13 is formed of the same material that constitutes the refrigerant piping 6. In Embodiment 1, the substrate 13, like the refrigerant piping 6, is primarily composed of copper. Therefore, the corrosion of the refrigerant piping 6 can be reproduced using the substrate 13. As a result, corrosion of the refrigerant piping 6 can be detected with high precision based on the corrosion of the substrate 13 in the ACM sensor 11.

[0109] The substrate 13 is formed in a plate shape. By reducing the thickness of the substrate 13, the ACM sensor 11 can be easily deformed, allowing the shape of the ACM processor 11 to match the installation location of the ACM sensor 11. Furthermore, the thickness of the substrate 13 can be approximately the same as the thickness of the refrigerant piping 6. For example, the thickness of the substrate 13 is 0.8 times to 1.2 times the thickness of the refrigerant piping 6. Preferably, the thickness of the substrate 13 is 0.9 times to 1.1 times the thickness of the refrigerant piping 6.

[0110] The insulating layer 14 is formed in a plate shape. The insulating layer 14 is laminated on one side of the substrate 13. On the other hand, the substrate 13 is also exposed on the side after the insulating layer 14 is laminated.

[0111] The insulating layer 14 is an electrically insulating material. The material forming the insulating layer 14 is, for example, resin.

[0112] The cathode electrode 15 is stacked on the side of the insulating layer 14 opposite to the substrate 13.

[0113] The cathode electrode 15 is formed of a conductive material with a surface potential higher than that of the substrate 13. When the surface potential of the cathode electrode 15 is higher than that of the substrate 13, the substrate 13 corrodes preferentially, thus enabling the detection of corrosion of the refrigerant piping 6 using the ACM sensor 11. For example, the cathode electrode 15 may be formed of silver or carbon, which have a higher surface potential than copper in the substrate 13.

[0114] The ACM sensor 11 includes a wire 20 connecting the substrate 13, the cathode electrode 15, and the processing unit 12. The wire 20 is formed of a conductive material, such as copper.

[0115] An insulating protective layer 21 is disposed at the connection point between the conductor 20 and the substrate 13 and the cathode electrode 15 to protect the connection point. The insulating protective layer 21 is formed of an electrically insulating material. For example, the insulating protective layer 21 is formed of resin.

[0116] (Processing Department)

[0117] The elements constituting the processing unit 12 include, for example, a memory (not shown) storing programs that enable these elements to function, and a processing circuit (not shown) corresponding to a processor such as a CPU (Central Processing Unit), which functions as these elements by executing the programs.

[0118] The processing unit 12 determines the corrosion of the refrigerant piping 6 based on changes in the corrosion current. More specifically, the processing unit 12 determines the corrosion of the refrigerant piping 6 by judging whether the corrosion current detected by the ACM sensor 11 has a spike signal. For example, the processing unit 12 determines that corrosion has occurred in the refrigerant piping 6 when the corrosion current has a spike signal.

[0119] A spike signal refers to a sharp change in the current value in a corrosion current. Spike signals are described later. Figure 4B The diagram shows an increasing interval R1 and a decreasing interval R2. The increasing interval R1 is the interval where the corrosion current increases in such a way that its time derivative is above a certain threshold. On the other hand, the decreasing interval R2 is the interval immediately following the increasing interval R1 where the corrosion current decreases. Because the current decreases, the time derivative of the decreasing interval R2 is less than 0 μA / s, i.e., negative. When the duration t1 of the increasing interval R1 (where the time derivative is above the threshold) and the duration t2 of the decreasing interval R2 (where the corrosion current decreases) are both within the increasing interval, the processing unit 12 can determine that the corrosion current has a spike signal and thus determine corrosion of the refrigerant piping 6. For example, time t1 is less than 1 second, and time t2 is more than 1 second but less than 30 seconds. Furthermore, for example, the threshold for the time derivative of the increasing interval R1 is 5 μA / s.

[0120] The processing unit 12 is electrically connected to the ACM sensor 11. The processing unit 12 may also be disposed around the ACM sensor 11.

[0121] (action)

[0122] A detailed explanation of an example of the operation of the refrigeration cycle device 1 is provided.

[0123] Figure 3 This is a cross-sectional view of the ACM sensor 11. Figure 3 In this process, the ACM sensor 11 is connected to the processing unit 12 via the wire 20. A water film 19 is formed on the surface of the ACM sensor 11.

[0124] The water film 19 is a continuous film of water that is in contact with a portion of the substrate 13 and a portion of the cathode electrode 15. Multiple water films 19 may also be formed on the ACM sensor 11. The water film 19 may be formed, for example, when the temperature of the substrate 13 is lower than the ambient temperature and condensation occurs on the ACM sensor 11. Additionally, the water film 19 may also form when the humidity around the substrate 13 is high.

[0125] Because water is conductive, the formation of the water film 19 creates a conductive connection between the substrate 13 and the cathode electrode 15. Due to the potential difference between the substrate 13 and the cathode electrode 15, a corrosion current flows. The corrosion current flows from the substrate 13 to the cathode electrode 15, and electrons move from the cathode electrode 15 back to the substrate 13. The corrosion current then flows from the cathode electrode 15 to the processing section 12.

[0126] ACM sensor 11 detects the corrosion current of substrate 13. When substrate 13 is corroded by water film 19, the corrosion current detected by ACM sensor 11 changes. Processing unit 12 determines the corrosion of refrigerant piping 6 based on the change in corrosion current.

[0127] In Embodiment 1, the substrate 13 of the ACM sensor 11 and the refrigerant piping 6 are made of the same material. Furthermore, the ACM sensor 11 is attached to the outer surface of the refrigerant piping 6 of the first heat exchanger 2. Therefore, the corrosion of the refrigerant piping 6 can be reproduced using the substrate 13. Consequently, the processing unit 12 can deduce the occurrence of corrosion in the refrigerant piping 6 based on the change in corrosion current caused by the corrosion of the substrate 13 of the ACM sensor 11.

[0128] The changes in current based on corrosion are explained in detail.

[0129] First, the localized corrosion of copper used in the materials forming the substrate 13 and the refrigerant piping 6 will be described. Examples of localized copper corrosion include termite corrosion and stress corrosion cracking. In termite corrosion, complex branching microcavities form inside the copper, for example, within the wall of the refrigerant piping 6. Termite corrosion is prone to occur when carboxylic acids are present around the copper. For example, carboxylic acids are produced when formaldehyde contained in adhesives used as building materials oxidizes. Additionally, in stress corrosion cracking, cracks form from the surface of the copper, for example, from the outer surface of the refrigerant piping 6. Stress corrosion cracking occurs when ammonia is present around copper subjected to bending stress. Ammonia is produced, for example, by pet urine.

[0130] When the copper-based substrate 13 undergoes normal corrosion due to humidity or salt damage, the copper forming the substrate 13 oxidizes and releases electrons. Due to the corrosion of the substrate 13, the corrosion current flowing through the substrate 13 increases. Conversely, when the copper-based substrate 13 experiences localized corrosion, the copper forming the substrate 13 oxidizes and releases a large number of electrons in a short period. Due to the localized corrosion of the substrate 13, the corrosion current flowing through the substrate 13 increases. Furthermore, the increase in corrosion current due to localized corrosion is more severe than that due to normal corrosion caused by humidity or salt damage, resulting in a spike signal. Therefore, in the case of localized corrosion, the ACM sensor 11 detects the spike signal of the corrosion current. That is, the spike signal indicates localized corrosion of copper and can be used to detect copper corrosion.

[0131] Figure 4A It is a graph showing the relationship between the corrosion current detected by ACM sensor 11 and the elapsed time. Figure 4B yes Figure 4A A magnified view of a portion of the corrosion current. Figure 4A In the diagram, arrows represent spike signals, indicating that corrosion has occurred in the copper-based substrate 13. Figure 4B China indicates Figure 4A The image shown is an enlarged view of a spike signal.

[0132] like Figure 4B As shown, in the corrosion of copper, the spike signal has a rising interval R1 and a decreasing interval R2 immediately following the rising interval R1. As explained before, the processing unit 12 determines the corrosion of the refrigerant piping 6 based on the rising interval R1 and the decreasing interval R2 of the corrosion current.

[0133] The corrosion assessment performed by the processing unit 12 determines whether or not corrosion exists in the refrigerant piping 6. For example, corrosion is determined to exist if a spike signal is generated, and to exist if no spike signal is generated. Alternatively, the corrosion status, such as the size of the corrosion area, corrosion rate, and lifespan of the refrigerant piping 6, can be determined based on other information related to the spike signal detected by the ACM sensor 11. For example, the corrosion status can be determined based on the maximum current value of the spike signal, the number of times it occurs, or its frequency.

[0134] (Effect)

[0135] According to the refrigeration cycle device 1 of embodiment 1, the following effects can be obtained.

[0136] The refrigeration cycle unit includes a first heat exchanger 2, a compressor 3, a second heat exchanger 4, and an expansion mechanism 5. The refrigeration cycle unit 1 also includes a refrigerant piping 6, an ACM sensor 11, and a processing unit 12. The refrigerant piping 6 connects the first heat exchanger 2, the compressor 3, the second heat exchanger 4, and the expansion mechanism 5, allowing the refrigerant, primarily composed of copper, to circulate within it. The ACM sensor 11 is disposed on the outer surface of the refrigerant piping 6 and is used to detect corrosion current. The processing unit 12 determines the corrosion of the refrigerant piping 6 based on changes in the corrosion current detected by the ACM sensor 11.

[0137] By adopting this structure, the accuracy of corrosion detection can be improved. Specifically, because the ACM sensor 11 is used to detect the corrosion current, and the corrosion of the refrigerant piping 6 is determined based on the changes in the detected corrosion current, the accuracy of corrosion detection can be improved.

[0138] By placing the ACM sensor 11 on the outer surface of the refrigerant pipe 6, the detection accuracy of corrosion in the refrigerant pipe 6 can be further improved. Specifically, by placing the ACM sensor 11 on the outer surface of the refrigerant pipe 6, the corrosive environment of the ACM sensor 11 can be made consistent with the corrosive environment of the refrigerant pipe 6. Thus, for example, the temperature of the ACM sensor 11 can be synchronized with the temperature of the refrigerant pipe 6. In this case, due to the temperature synchronization, the ACM sensor 11 and the refrigerant pipe 6 will condense to the same degree. By reproducing the condensation of the refrigerant pipe 6, the corrosion of the refrigerant pipe 6 can be reproduced using the ACM sensor 11, thereby improving the detection accuracy of corrosion.

[0139] Temperature synchronization is achieved, for example, through thermal conduction between the substrate 13 of the ACM sensor 11 and the refrigerant piping 6. Furthermore, since the main component of the refrigerant piping 6 is copper, which has high thermal conductivity, temperature synchronization is easily achieved.

[0140] ACM sensor 11 is configured on refrigerant piping 6, which is configured in the first heat exchanger 2.

[0141] By adopting this structure, the detection accuracy of corrosion in the refrigerant piping 6 can be further improved. Specifically, in the refrigeration cycle unit 1, the refrigerant piping 6 of the first heat exchanger 2 is prone to condensation and corrosion due to the temperature difference between the refrigerant piping 6 and the ambient temperature. By equipping the easily corroded refrigerant piping 6 with an ACM sensor 11, corrosion can be detected more reliably. Furthermore, by equipping the easily corroded parts of the refrigerant piping 6 in the refrigeration cycle unit 1 with an ACM sensor 11, the initial corrosion in the refrigerant piping 6 can be detected. Thus, malfunctions of the refrigeration cycle unit 1 caused by corrosion of the refrigerant piping 6 can be detected in advance.

[0142] The ACM sensor 11 includes a substrate 13, an insulating layer 14, and a cathode electrode 15. The substrate 13 is conductive, and its main components are the same as those of the refrigerant piping 6. The insulating layer 14 is laminated on the substrate 13 and is an electrically insulating material. The cathode electrode 15 is laminated on the insulating layer 14 and has a higher surface potential than the substrate 13.

[0143] By adopting such a structure, corrosion current flows between the substrate 13 and the cathode electrode 15, and the corrosion of the refrigerant piping 6 can be determined based on the change in corrosion current.

[0144] Furthermore, by making the main components of the substrate 13 the same as those of the refrigerant piping 6, the detection accuracy of corrosion of the refrigerant piping 6 can be further improved. Specifically, the main components of both the substrate 13 and the refrigerant piping 6 are copper. Therefore, the material properties of the substrate 13 and the refrigerant piping 6 are the same. As a result, the corrosion of the refrigerant piping 6 can be reproduced using the substrate 13, and the corrosion of the refrigerant piping 6 can be determined based on the change in corrosion current caused by corrosion of the substrate 13. Consequently, the detection accuracy of corrosion of the refrigerant piping 6 can be improved. In addition, since the material properties of the substrate 13 and the refrigerant piping 6 are the same, for example, their surface water resistance is the same, and the area and thickness of the water film 19 formed on the surface are the same. Therefore, the detection accuracy of corrosion can be further improved.

[0145] Because the main component of substrate 13 is copper, substrate 13 has high conductivity and low resistance. Therefore, it is easy to detect the weak corrosion current flowing through substrate 13 and the changes in the corrosion current.

[0146] The thickness of the substrate 13 is approximately the same as the thickness of the refrigerant piping 6.

[0147] By adopting this structure, the detection accuracy of corrosion in the refrigerant piping 6 can be further improved. Specifically, since the substrate 13 has approximately the same thickness as the refrigerant piping 6, the temperature, condensation, and stress conditions of the refrigerant piping 6 can be easily reproduced using the substrate 13. Therefore, the corrosion of the refrigerant piping 6 can be reproduced using the substrate 13, and the detection accuracy of corrosion can be further improved.

[0148] The processing unit 12 detects the corrosion current in the rising interval R1 and the decreasing interval R2. In the rising interval R1, the corrosion current increases such that its time derivative exceeds a threshold value. The decreasing interval R2 immediately follows the rising interval R1, and the corrosion current decreases. If the rising interval R1 is less than 1 second and the decreasing interval R2 is more than 1 second but less than 30 seconds, the processing unit 12 determines that the refrigerant piping 6 is corroded.

[0149] By adopting such a structure, the processing unit 12 can determine the corrosion of the refrigerant piping 6, which is mainly composed of copper, based on the change in corrosion current.

[0150] The first threshold is 5 μA / s.

[0151] By employing this structure, when the time derivative of the corrosion current in the rising interval R1 increases by more than 5 μA / s, the processing unit 12 can determine the corrosion of the refrigerant pipe 6, which is mainly composed of copper. This further improves the detection accuracy of corrosion of the refrigerant pipe 6, which is mainly composed of copper.

[0152] The refrigeration cycle device 1 also includes a four-way valve 8 that changes the flow direction of the refrigerant in the refrigerant piping 6.

[0153] By adopting such a structure, as shown in the refrigeration cycle device 1 of Embodiment 1, for example, the detection accuracy of corrosion in the air conditioner during refrigeration operation can be improved.

[0154] Furthermore, in Embodiment 1, an air conditioner was described as an example of the refrigeration cycle device 1 during cooling operation, but it is not limited to this. For example, the refrigeration cycle device 1 could also be an air conditioner during heating operation. Additionally, the refrigeration cycle device 1 could also be a refrigeration device such as a cold storage room.

[0155] In Embodiment 1, an example was described in which the refrigerant piping 6 was configured to connect the first heat exchanger 2, the compressor 3, the four-way valve 8, the second heat exchanger 4, and the expansion mechanism 5. However, the refrigerant piping 6 may also be connected to other elements (components) such as a liquid receiver or a valve.

[0156] In Embodiment 1, an example of the ACM sensor 11 being disposed on the outer surface of the refrigerant piping 6 of the first heat exchanger 2 was described, but this is not a limitation. The ACM sensor 11 may also be disposed on at least one of the first heat exchanger 2 and the second heat exchanger 4. For example, the ACM sensor 11 may also be disposed on the outer surface of the refrigerant piping 6 of the second heat exchanger 4. Alternatively, the ACM sensor 11 may also be disposed on the refrigerant piping 6 of both the first heat exchanger 2 and the second heat exchanger 4.

[0157] Alternatively, the ACM sensor 11 can also be configured in other parts of the refrigerant piping 6.

[0158] In Embodiment 1, an example of a refrigeration cycle device 1 including one ACM sensor 11 was described, but the device is not limited thereto. The refrigeration cycle device 1 may also include one or more ACM sensors 11.

[0159] In Embodiment 1, an example of the ACM sensor 11 being disposed on the outer surface of the refrigerant piping 6 of the refrigeration cycle device 1 was described, but this is not a limitation. The ACM sensor 11 may also be disposed on at least one of the outer surface of the refrigerant piping 6 and around the refrigerant piping 6. Disposing around the refrigerant piping 6 means being indirectly disposed on the refrigerant piping 6 via other components. For example, the ACM sensor 11 may also be disposed on the fins of the first heat exchanger 2 connected to the refrigerant piping 6. Alternatively, the ACM sensor 11 may be disposed on the outer surface of a dummy piping where refrigerant does not flow. The dummy piping achieves temperature synchronization by being disposed near the refrigerant piping 6. By disposing the ACM sensor 11 at locations where the temperature of the installation point is lower than the ambient temperature and condensation is likely to occur, or at locations where stress loads are applied, the accuracy of corrosion detection can be further improved.

[0160] In Embodiment 1, an example was described where the main component of the substrate 13 is copper, but this is not a limitation. The material forming the substrate 13 can be any material that corrodes preferentially compared to the cathode electrode 15. Furthermore, the material forming the substrate 13 can be any material capable of reproducing the corrosion of the refrigerant piping 6.

[0161] (Implementation Method 2)

[0162] The refrigeration cycle apparatus according to Embodiment 2 of the present invention will be described. In Embodiment 2, the differences from Embodiment 1 will be mainly explained. In Embodiment 2, the same or equivalent structures as in Embodiment 1 will be given the same reference numerals. In addition, in Embodiment 2, descriptions that are repeated in Embodiment 1 will be omitted.

[0163] Figure 5This is a schematic diagram of the first heat exchanger 2 according to Embodiment 2 of the present invention.

[0164] In Embodiment 2, the refrigerant pipe 6 disposed in the first heat exchanger 2 has a bend 7, and the ACM sensor 11 is disposed in the bend 7, which is different from Embodiment 1.

[0165] In Embodiment 2, unless otherwise specified, the refrigeration cycle device 1 is the same as in Embodiment 1.

[0166] like Figure 5 As shown, in the first heat exchanger 2, a plurality of fins 17 are arranged at intervals. In the first heat exchanger 2, refrigerant piping 6 is arranged to pass through the plurality of fins 17. Furthermore, the refrigerant piping 6 is bent to have a bend 7. Figure 5 The arrow indicates the direction of refrigerant flow during the refrigeration operation of refrigeration cycle unit 1.

[0167] The bend 7 of the refrigerant pipe 6 protrudes from and bends from the fins 17 on the side of the first heat exchanger 2. That is, it is in a state where bending stress is applied to the bend 7. For example, the bend 7 is bent into a U-shape. In embodiment 2, the refrigerant pipe 6 of the first heat exchanger 2 has multiple bends 7.

[0168] During the refrigeration operation of the refrigeration cycle device 1, the refrigerant temperature at the bend 7a on the inlet side of the refrigerant piping 6 of the first heat exchanger 2 is lower than that at the bend 7b on the refrigerant outlet side. Therefore, the relative humidity at the bend 7a is higher than that at the bend 7b, making it more susceptible to corrosion. Therefore, in Embodiment 2, the ACM sensor 11 is disposed at the bend 7a on the refrigerant inlet side of the first heat exchanger 2.

[0169] The ACM sensor 11 deforms according to the shape of the bend 7 and is attached to the bend 7.

[0170] Figure 6 This is a cross-sectional view of the bent portion with ACM sensor 11 in Embodiment 2. (As shown) Figure 6 As shown, the ACM sensor 11 is attached in a way that it is tightly adhered to the outer surface of the bend 7. That is, the ACM sensor 11 is deformed along the shape of the bend 7. Therefore, the ACM sensor 11 also reproduces the state in which bending stress is applied to the bend 7. The ACM sensor 11 can be attached to the bend 7 by brazing, welding, or spot welding. In addition, by inserting the ACM sensor 11 into the housing installed in the bend 7, it can be attached to the refrigerant pipe 6.

[0171] (Effect)

[0172] The refrigerant piping configured in the first heat exchanger 2 has a bend 7, and the ACM sensor 11 is configured in the bend 7.

[0173] By employing this structure, the detection accuracy of stress corrosion cracks in the refrigerant piping 6 can be improved. Specifically, because the substrate 13 is disposed along the bend 7 of the refrigerant piping 6, the bending shape of the bend 7 of the refrigerant piping 6 can be reproduced using the substrate 13. Here, by also reproducing the main components and thickness of the refrigerant piping 6 using the substrate 13, the bending stress condition of the bend 7 of the refrigerant piping 6 can be reproduced using the substrate 13. By reproducing the stress condition of the bend 7 of the refrigerant piping 6, the stress corrosion cracks of the refrigerant piping 6 can be reproduced using the substrate 13, thereby improving the detection accuracy of stress corrosion cracks.

[0174] Furthermore, in Embodiment 2, an example of the ACM sensor 11 being disposed at the bend 7 of the refrigerant pipe 6 of the first heat exchanger 2 was described, but it is not limited to this. For example, the refrigerant pipe 6 disposed in at least one of the first heat exchanger 2 and the second heat exchanger 4 may have a bend 7, and the ACM sensor 11 may be disposed at the bend 7. For example, the ACM sensor 11 may also be disposed at the bend 7 of the refrigerant pipe 6 of the second heat exchanger 4. The ACM sensor 11 may also be disposed at the bend 7 of the refrigerant pipe 6 of both the first heat exchanger 2 and the second heat exchanger 4.

[0175] In Embodiment 2, an example of configuring one ACM sensor 11 in one of the multiple bends 7a was described, but it is not limited to this. For example, multiple ACM sensors 11 may be configured in the multiple bends 7.

[0176] In Embodiment 2, an example of a bend 7a on the refrigerant inlet side where the ACM sensor 11 is configured is described, but this is not a limitation. The ACM sensor 11 may also be configured on the bend 7b on the refrigerant outlet side. Alternatively, the bend 7 may be configured in a location other than the refrigerant piping 6 of the first heat exchanger 2 and the second heat exchanger 4.

[0177] In Embodiment 2, an example of ACM sensor 11 being attached to the bend 7 was described, but it is not limited to this. For example, as in Modification 1 described later, the substrate 13 may be formed from a portion of the refrigerant piping 6.

[0178] (Variation Example 1)

[0179] Figure 7 This is a cross-sectional view of the ACM sensor 11A, a modified example of Embodiment 2. (See attached image.) Figure 7As shown, the substrate 13 of the ACM sensor 11A is formed from a portion of the bend 7 of the refrigerant pipe 6. The insulating layer 14 of the ACM sensor 11A is adhered along the outer surface of the bend 7. A cathode electrode 15 is stacked on the side of the insulating layer 14 opposite to the bend 7. In Modification 1, the other structures of the ACM sensor 11A are the same as those of the ACM sensor 11 in Embodiment 2. As a method for forming such an ACM sensor 11A, a method of directly printing the insulating layer 14 onto the bend 7 can be cited.

[0180] By adopting this structure, the actual corrosion current of the refrigerant piping 6 can be detected, further improving the accuracy of corrosion detection. In Modification 1, the ACM sensor 11A can directly detect the corrosion of the refrigerant piping 6. Furthermore, the number of components can be reduced, saving space.

[0181] Furthermore, in Modification 1, an example was described in which the substrate 13 of the ACM sensor 11A was formed from a portion of the bend 7 of the refrigerant pipe 6, but this is not a limitation. The substrate 13 may also be formed from a portion of the refrigerant pipe 6 other than the bend 7. For example, the substrate 13 may also be formed from a portion of a straight refrigerant pipe 6.

[0182] (Implementation Method 3)

[0183] The refrigeration cycle apparatus according to Embodiment 3 of the present invention will be described. In Embodiment 3, the differences from Embodiment 1 will be mainly explained. In Embodiment 3, the same reference numerals will be used to describe structures that are the same as or equivalent to those in Embodiment 1. In addition, descriptions that are repeated in Embodiment 1 will be omitted in Embodiment 3.

[0184] Figure 8 This is a block diagram of the refrigeration cycle device 1A according to Embodiment 3 of the present invention.

[0185] In Embodiment 3, the refrigeration cycle device 1A has a display unit 16, which differs from Embodiment 1.

[0186] In Embodiment 3, unless otherwise specified, the refrigeration cycle device 1A is the same as the refrigeration cycle device 1 in Embodiment 1.

[0187] Display unit 16 displays the determination result of corrosion of refrigerant piping 6 as determined by processing unit 12. The corrosion determination result includes, for example, whether corrosion has occurred. Display unit 16 includes an LED and a control circuit that controls the LED. The control circuit illuminates the LED by receiving a signal from processing unit 12. For example, processing unit 12 sends a signal to the control circuit of display unit 16 when corrosion is determined to be present. The control circuit illuminates the LED upon receiving the signal from processing unit 12. The LED is positioned in a location visible to the user of the refrigeration cycle unit 1A. For example, the LED is positioned on the outside of indoor unit 9.

[0188] (Effect)

[0189] Display unit 16 displays the judgment result of the refrigerant piping 6 corrosion determined by processing unit 12.

[0190] By employing this structure, the assessment results of corrosion of the refrigerant piping 6 can be displayed to the user of the refrigeration cycle unit 1A. Therefore, by informing and urging the user that the refrigerant piping 6 needs to be replaced or repaired, the refrigerant piping 6 can be addressed before it becomes blocked.

[0191] Furthermore, in Embodiment 3, an example of a refrigeration cycle device 1A including a display unit 16 was described, but it is not limited to this. The display unit 16 may also be excluded from the constituent elements of the refrigeration cycle device 1A. The display unit 16 may also be a display independent of the refrigeration cycle device 1A. In the case where the display unit 16 is independent of the refrigeration cycle device 1A, the refrigeration cycle device 1A and the display unit 16 may include a communication unit. The communication unit includes circuitry that communicates with the display unit 16 according to a prescribed communication standard (e.g., LAN, Wi-Fi, Bluetooth). For example, the display of the remote control for the refrigeration cycle device 1A may also function as the display unit 16. The refrigeration cycle device 1A sends information about the corrosion judgment result to the remote control via the communication unit. The remote control may also receive the information about the corrosion judgment result via the communication unit and display the corrosion judgment result on the remote control's display. In addition, the display of a smartphone may also function as the display unit 16. Specifically, the communication unit of the refrigeration cycle device 1A may communicate with a smartphone and display the corrosion judgment result on the smartphone. For example, it can also be configured such that an application corresponding to the cooling cycle device 1A is set in a smartphone, and the corrosion judgment result is displayed on the smartphone through the application.

[0192] In Embodiment 3, an example of illuminating the LEDs of the display unit 16 based on the presence or absence of corrosion was described, but this is not a limitation. Alternatively, the display unit 16 may display whether corrosion has occurred and information about the spike signal determined by the processing unit 12, or it may display information about the spike signal determined by the processing unit 12 instead of whether corrosion has occurred. For example, if the display unit 16 has a display, the display unit 16 may also display the presence or absence of the spike signal, the maximum current value, the number of occurrences, or the frequency of occurrence as numerical values.

[0193] In addition, the display unit 16 can also display the progress of corrosion in three stages. For example, the display unit 16 has three LEDs: green, yellow, and red. The green LED is lit before corrosion occurs, the yellow LED is lit immediately after corrosion occurs, and the red LED is lit one month after corrosion begins.

[0194] Furthermore, the display unit 16 is not limited to a visual display; it can also be a speaker that emits an alarm sound. For example, the display unit 16 can emit an alarm sound when the processing unit 12 determines that corrosion has occurred.

[0195] Furthermore, in Embodiment 3, an example of providing the display unit 16 in Embodiment 1 was described, but it is not limited to this. The display unit 16 may also be provided in Embodiment 2 and Modified Example 1.

[0196] (Implementation Method 4)

[0197] The refrigeration cycle system 41 of Embodiment 4 of the present invention will be described, and the differences from Embodiment 1 will be mainly explained in Embodiment 4. In Embodiment 4, the same or equivalent structures as in Embodiment 1 will be given the same reference numerals. In addition, descriptions that are repeated in Embodiment 1 will be omitted in Embodiment 4.

[0198] Figure 9 This is a block diagram of the refrigeration cycle system 41 according to Embodiment 4 of the present invention.

[0199] In Embodiment 4, the refrigeration cycle system 41, which includes the refrigeration cycle device 1B, differs from that in Embodiment 1.

[0200] In Embodiment 4, unless otherwise specified, the refrigeration cycle device 1B is the same as the refrigeration cycle device 1 in Embodiment 1.

[0201] (Overall structure)

[0202] like Figure 9 As shown, the refrigeration cycle system 41 includes a refrigeration cycle device 1B and a processing device 51.

[0203] (Refrigeration cycle unit)

[0204] The refrigeration cycle unit 1B includes a first heat exchanger 2, a compressor 3, a second heat exchanger 4, an expansion mechanism 5, a refrigerant piping 6, an ACM sensor 11, a storage unit 42, and a first communication unit 43.

[0205] (Storage Department)

[0206] Storage unit 42 stores information about the corrosion current detected by ACM sensor 11. Storage unit 42 may also be, for example, RAM, ROM, EEPROM, flash memory or other memory, CD-ROM, DVD or other optical disc memory, magnetic cartridge, magnetic tape, disk storage or other magnetic storage device.

[0207] (1st Communications Department)

[0208] The first communication unit 43 transmits information stored in the storage unit 42 via a network. Specifically, the first communication unit 43 transmits information about the corrosion current to the processing device 51 via the network. The first communication unit 43 includes circuitry that transmits information to the second communication unit 53 of the processing device 51 (described later) according to a specified communication standard (e.g., LAN, Wi-Fi, Bluetooth).

[0209] (Processing device)

[0210] The processing device 51 includes a processing unit 12 and a second communication unit 53. The processing device 51 is a computer. For example, the processing device 51 is a server or a cloud.

[0211] (Second Communications Department)

[0212] The second communication unit 53 receives information about the corrosion current transmitted by the first communication unit 43 via a network. The second communication unit 53 includes circuitry that receives information from the first communication unit 43 of the refrigeration cycle device 1B in accordance with a specified communication standard (e.g., LAN, Wi-Fi, Bluetooth).

[0213] The processing unit 12 determines corrosion based on the corrosion current information received by the second communication unit 53.

[0214] (action)

[0215] In the refrigeration cycle unit 1B, the corrosion current is detected by the ACM sensor 11, and the corrosion current information is stored in the storage unit 42. The first communication unit 43 transmits the corrosion current information stored in the storage unit 42 to the second communication unit 53. In the processing unit 51, the corrosion current information is received by the second communication unit 53. Based on the corrosion current information received by the second communication unit 53, the processing unit 12 determines the corrosion of the refrigerant piping 6 in the refrigeration cycle unit 1B.

[0216] (Effect)

[0217] A refrigeration cycle system 41 according to one aspect of the present invention includes a refrigeration cycle device 1B and a processing device 51. The refrigeration cycle device 1B includes a first heat exchanger 2, a compressor 3, a second heat exchanger 4, and an expansion mechanism 5. The processing device 51 communicates with the refrigeration cycle device 1B via a network. The refrigeration cycle device 1B also includes a refrigerant piping 6, an ACM (Atmospheric Corrosion Monitor) sensor 11, a storage unit 42, and a first communication unit 43. The refrigerant piping 6 connects the first heat exchanger 2, the compressor 3, the second heat exchanger 4, and the expansion mechanism 5 to circulate refrigerant, which is primarily composed of copper. The ACM sensor 11 is disposed on at least one of the outer surface of the refrigerant piping 6 and around the refrigerant piping 6 for detecting corrosion current. The storage unit 42 stores information about the corrosion current detected by the ACM sensor 11. The first communication unit 43 transmits the corrosion current information stored in the storage unit 42 via a network. The processing device 51 includes a second communication unit 53 and a processing unit 12. The second communication unit 53 receives information about the corrosion current via the network. The processing unit 12 determines the corrosion of the refrigerant piping 6 based on changes in the corrosion current.

[0218] By adopting this structure, the detection accuracy of corrosion in the refrigeration cycle unit 1B can be improved, and information on the corrosion current detected by the ACM sensor 11 can be transmitted from the refrigeration cycle unit 1B to other devices. Specifically, the information on the corrosion current detected by the ACM sensor 11 can be transmitted to a processing unit 51 independent of the refrigeration cycle unit 1B. For example, if the seller has a processing unit 51, maintenance services can be provided based on the corrosion assessment performed by the processing unit 12. Therefore, it is possible to suppress malfunctions in the refrigeration cycle unit 1B, improve the efficiency of maintenance services, and increase user satisfaction.

[0219] In addition, the processing device 51 can also receive information from multiple refrigeration cycle devices 1B.

[0220] The present invention has been fully described with reference to the accompanying drawings and preferred embodiments. However, various modifications and variations will be apparent to those skilled in the art. Such modifications and variations are to be understood as included therein, provided they do not depart from the scope of the invention as defined in the claims.

[0221] Industrial availability

[0222] The refrigeration cycle device and refrigeration cycle system of the present invention can improve the detection accuracy of corrosion of refrigerant piping with copper as the main component, and therefore are useful as air conditioners.

[0223] Explanation of reference numerals in the attached figures

[0224] 1. Refrigeration cycle devices 1A and 1B

[0225] 2. First heat exchanger

[0226] 3 compressors

[0227] 4. Second heat exchanger

[0228] 5. Expansion Mechanism

[0229] 6. Refrigerant piping

[0230] 7. Bend

[0231] 8 Four-way valve

[0232] 9 Indoor Unit

[0233] 10 Outdoor Units

[0234] 11, 11A ACM sensor

[0235] 12 Processing Department

[0236] 13 Substrate

[0237] 14 Insulation layer

[0238] 15 Cathode Electrode

[0239] 16 Display Section

[0240] 17 Fins

[0241] 19 Water film

[0242] 20 wires

[0243] 21 Insulation protective layer

[0244] 41 Refrigeration Cycle System

[0245] 42 Storage Section

[0246] 43 1st Communications Department

[0247] 51 processing unit

[0248] 53 2nd Communications Department.

Claims

1. A refrigeration cycle apparatus including a first heat exchanger, a compressor, a second heat exchanger, and an expansion mechanism, characterized by comprising: a refrigerant pipe having copper as a main component, which connects the first heat exchanger, the compressor, the second heat exchanger, and the expansion mechanism, for circulating a refrigerant; an atmospheric corrosion monitoring sensor for detecting a corrosion current, which is arranged on at least one of an outer side surface of the refrigerant pipe and a periphery of the refrigerant pipe; and a processing section for judging corrosion of the refrigerant pipe based on a change in the corrosion current detected by the atmospheric corrosion monitoring sensor.

2. The refrigeration cycle apparatus according to claim 1, characterized in that: the atmospheric corrosion monitoring sensor is arranged in close contact with the outer side surface of the refrigerant pipe.

3. The refrigeration cycle apparatus according to claim 1, characterized in that: the atmospheric corrosion monitoring sensor includes: a base material having electrical conductivity; an insulating layer of an electrically insulating substance laminated on the base material; and a cathode electrode having a higher surface potential than the base material, which is laminated on the insulating layer.

4. The refrigeration cycle apparatus according to claim 3, characterized in that: the base material has substantially the same thickness as the refrigerant pipe.

5. The refrigeration cycle apparatus according to claim 3, characterized in that: the base material is formed of a portion of the refrigerant pipe.

6. The refrigeration cycle apparatus according to claim 3, further comprising: a display section for displaying a result of the judgment of the corrosion of the refrigerant pipe by the processing section.

7. The refrigeration cycle apparatus according to claim 1, characterized in that: the processing section detects a rising section in which the corrosion current increases in a manner that a time differential value thereof is equal to or higher than a threshold value, and a decreasing section in which the corrosion current decreases immediately after the rising section, 8. The refrigeration cycle apparatus according to claim 7, characterized in that: the threshold value is 5 μA / s.

9. The refrigeration cycle apparatus according to claim 1, further comprising: a four-way valve for changing a flow direction of the refrigerant in the refrigerant pipe.

10. A refrigeration cycle apparatus including a first heat exchanger, a compressor, a second heat exchanger, and an expansion mechanism, and a processing apparatus that communicates with the refrigeration cycle apparatus via a network.

11. The refrigeration cycle apparatus according to claim 10, characterized in that: the refrigeration cycle apparatus includes: a refrigerant pipe having copper as a main component, which connects the first heat exchanger, the compressor, the second heat exchanger, and the expansion mechanism, for circulating a refrigerant; an atmospheric corrosion monitoring sensor for detecting a corrosion current, which is arranged on at least one of an outer side surface of the refrigerant pipe and a periphery of the refrigerant pipe; a storage section for storing information of the corrosion current detected by the atmospheric corrosion monitoring sensor; and a processing section for judging corrosion of the refrigerant pipe based on a change in the corrosion current detected by the atmospheric corrosion monitoring sensor. ​ ​ ​ ​ ​ ​ ​ 6. The refrigeration cycle apparatus according to claim 1, wherein ​ ​ ​ ​ ​ ​ ​ 9. The refrigeration cycle apparatus according to any one of claims 1 to 8, wherein ​ ​ 10. A refrigeration cycle system characterized by comprising: ​ ​ ​ ​ ​ ​ ​ ​ ​ a first communication section that transmits information of the corrosion current stored in the storage section via the network, the processing device has: a second communication section that receives information of the corrosion current via the network; and a processing section that judges corrosion of the refrigerant pipe according to a change in the corrosion current, the refrigerant pipe of at least one of the first heat exchanger and the second heat exchanger has a bent portion, the atmospheric corrosion monitoring sensor is arranged at the bent portion and has a shape along an outer side surface of the bent portion.

11. The refrigeration cycle system according to claim 10, wherein: the atmospheric corrosion monitoring sensor is in close contact with the outer side surface of the bent portion.

Images