Refrigeration system and data center
By introducing a gas-liquid separator and ejector into the refrigeration system, combined with the dynamic adjustment of the switching valve and detector, the problems of high energy loss and unstable compressor operation in the refrigeration system are solved, achieving efficient energy utilization and stable operation, and adapting to diverse cooling needs.
Patent Information
- Application Number
- CN202411925494.4
- Authority / Receiving Office
- CN · China
- Patent Type
- Patents(China)
- Current Assignee / Owner
- Filing Date
- 2024-12-25
- Publication Date
- 2026-01-27
- Estimated Expiration
- 2044-12-25
AI Technical Summary
Existing refrigeration systems suffer from high energy loss, low refrigeration efficiency, and unstable compressor operation.
A gas-liquid separator and an ejector are introduced into the refrigeration cycle. The gas-liquid separator stores the liquid working fluid and performs gas-liquid separation, while the ejector enables energy recovery and utilization. Combined with the dynamic adjustment of the switching valve and detector, the flow path of the working fluid is optimized to improve system efficiency and stability.
It improves the energy utilization efficiency of the refrigeration system, enhances the operational stability of the compressor, reduces energy consumption, extends equipment life, and meets diverse cooling needs.
Smart Images

Figure CN119412820B_ABST
Abstract
Description
Technical Field
[0001] This invention relates to the field of refrigeration equipment technology, and more particularly to a refrigeration system and a data center. Background Technology
[0002] In modern refrigeration and air conditioning systems, the refrigeration cycle typically relies on a compressor to increase the pressure of the refrigerant, enabling it to release heat in the condenser. The refrigerant then passes through a throttling device to reduce its pressure before entering the evaporator to absorb heat. However, refrigeration cycles are generally plagued by problems such as high energy loss, low refrigeration efficiency, and unstable compressor operation.
[0003] It should be noted that the information disclosed in the background section of this invention is intended only to enhance the understanding of the overall background of this invention, and should not be construed as an admission or in any way implying that such information constitutes prior art known to those skilled in the art. Summary of the Invention
[0004] This invention provides a cooling system and a data center, which can improve the energy utilization efficiency of the cooling system and enhance the operational stability of the system.
[0005] According to one aspect of the present invention, a refrigeration system is provided, comprising a compressor, a condenser, a first throttling device, and a first evaporator arranged sequentially in the circulation direction of the working fluid; the refrigeration system further comprises:
[0006] The first gas-liquid separation device has a first inlet connected to the outlet of the condenser, a gas outlet connected to the gas supply port of the compressor, and a liquid outlet connected to the inlet of the first throttling device.
[0007] A second gas-liquid separator has its inlet connected to the outlet of the first evaporator, and its gas outlet connected to the inlet of the compressor; and
[0008] The ejector has its inlet connected to the outlet of the condenser, its outlet connected to the second inlet of the first gas-liquid separator, and its inlet connected to the liquid outlet of the second gas-liquid separator, so as to draw the second working fluid from the liquid outlet of the second gas-liquid separator through the first working fluid at the outlet of the condenser.
[0009] In a refrigeration cycle, the working fluid exiting the first evaporator may contain a certain amount of liquid. Placing a second gas-liquid separator between the first evaporator and the compressor serves two purposes: firstly, it stores the liquid working fluid, preventing the liquid portion of the working fluid from directly entering the compressor and causing liquid carryover during compressor intake, thus protecting the compressor from liquid slugging damage; secondly, it separates the working fluid into gas and liquid components and connects to the compressor via a gas outlet, further ensuring that the working fluid entering the compressor is primarily gaseous, improving system efficiency and stability.
[0010] In a refrigeration cycle, the first-state working fluid at the condenser outlet typically consists of a high-temperature, high-pressure liquid working fluid, while the second-state working fluid at the liquid outlet of the second gas-liquid separator typically consists of a low-pressure liquid working fluid. The ejector uses the high-temperature, high-pressure liquid working fluid to entrain the low-pressure liquid working fluid, mixing these two states to form a medium-pressure liquid working fluid that enters the first gas-liquid separator. The first gas-liquid separator then outputs a gaseous working fluid to replenish the compressor. This design achieves efficient energy recovery and utilization, and the recovered energy can replenish the compressor, reducing its compression ratio and thus lowering the compressor's workload, contributing to improved efficiency of the entire refrigeration cycle.
[0011] In some embodiments, the first gas-liquid separation device includes a flash evaporator; and / or the second gas-liquid separation device includes a liquid reservoir.
[0012] Flash evaporators provide a low-pressure environment, causing the working fluid entering the flash evaporator to drop in pressure rapidly, thus quickly forming a two-phase mixture of gaseous and liquid states. The flash evaporator then outputs gaseous working fluid to the compressor, achieving efficient gas replenishment and helping to improve the efficiency of the refrigeration cycle.
[0013] The receiver is used to store the working fluid output from the first evaporator. It provides a buffer space for the delivery of the working fluid, which helps to balance the pressure and flow of the system, thereby improving the stability and reliability of the refrigeration cycle.
[0014] In some embodiments, the refrigeration system further includes:
[0015] A first switching valve, located between the condenser and the first gas-liquid separator, is configured to control the on / off state of the connecting pipe between the outlet of the condenser and the first inlet of the first gas-liquid separator; and / or
[0016] The second switching valve is located between the second gas-liquid separator and the injector, and is configured to control the opening and closing of the connecting pipeline between the liquid outlet of the second gas-liquid separator and the inlet of the injector.
[0017] By controlling the opening and closing of the first switching valve, the connection between the condenser outlet and the first inlet of the first gas-liquid separator can be controlled. Similarly, by controlling the opening and closing of the second switching valve, the connection between the liquid outlet of the second gas-liquid separator and the inlet of the ejector can be controlled. Therefore, the opening and closing of the first and second switching valves can be coordinated according to the actual needs of the refrigeration system during operation, thereby improving the flexibility and adaptability of the refrigeration system.
[0018] In some embodiments, the first switching valve and the second switching valve are configured as follows:
[0019] When the liquid working fluid content at the outlet of the first evaporator is less than a first preset value and / or the liquid working fluid content in the second gas-liquid separator is less than a second preset value, the first switching valve opens and the second switching valve closes; and
[0020] When the liquid working fluid content at the outlet of the first evaporator is greater than or equal to the first preset value and the liquid working fluid content in the second gas-liquid separator is greater than or equal to the second preset value, the first switch valve closes and the second switch valve opens.
[0021] Based on this, the opening and closing states of the first and second switching valves are dynamically adjusted according to the real-time content of the liquid working fluid, thereby controlling whether to use an ejector for injection. This setting ensures that the ejector is only activated under suitable conditions (such as when enough liquid working fluid is stored in the second gas-liquid separator), ensuring that the ejector starts when there is sufficient liquid working fluid reserve. This not only improves the injection effect but also reduces the number of unnecessary ejector starts, saving energy.
[0022] In some embodiments, the refrigeration system further includes a detector configured to detect the liquid working fluid content at the outlet of the first evaporator and / or the liquid working fluid content in the second gas-liquid separator, and a first switching valve and a second switching valve coupled to the detector to open or close according to the liquid working fluid content at the outlet of the first evaporator and / or the liquid working fluid content in the second gas-liquid separator detected by the detector.
[0023] The detector can monitor real-time data on the liquid working fluid content, allowing the first and second switching valves to adjust their opening and closing states accordingly, thus maintaining a relatively stable pressure and flow rate of the working fluid in the system. This flexible adjustment of the opening and closing timing of the first and second switching valves based on the liquid working fluid content ensures that the injector operates at a high efficiency during startup and improves the system's real-time adjustment capability and adaptability to different operating conditions.
[0024] In some embodiments, the detector includes a refrigerant analyzer.
[0025] The refrigerant analyzer can detect the composition of the working fluid at the outlet of the first evaporator and in the second gas-liquid separator, including but not limited to the temperature, pressure, and ratio of liquid to gaseous working fluid. The refrigerant analyzer can provide relatively quick and accurate comprehensive information about the working fluid, helping to improve the efficiency and automation of refrigeration system control.
[0026] In some embodiments, the refrigeration system further includes a second evaporator connected between the liquid outlet of the second gas-liquid separator and the inlet of the ejector.
[0027] By setting up a second evaporator, a different evaporation temperature can be achieved compared to the first evaporator, expanding the application range of the refrigeration system. For example, the first evaporator can be used to handle cooling needs within a first temperature range (e.g., refrigeration), while the second evaporator can be used to handle cooling needs within a second temperature range (e.g., air conditioning). Furthermore, the dual evaporator setup can reduce the average heat exchange temperature difference of the evaporators in the system, thereby reducing system energy consumption and improving system performance.
[0028] In some embodiments, the refrigeration system further includes a second throttling device connected between the second gas-liquid separator and the second evaporator.
[0029] The liquid working fluid stored in the second gas-liquid separator is throttled and depressurized by the second throttling device, preparing it for the subsequent evaporation process in the second evaporator. By adjusting the throttling degree of the second throttling device, the flow rate and velocity of the liquid working fluid entering the second evaporator can be controlled, facilitating flexible adjustment of its evaporation process. Based on this, the refrigeration cycles of the first and second evaporators can be independently and flexibly controlled, helping to meet diverse cooling requirements.
[0030] In some embodiments, the compressor includes a two-stage compressor or a multi-stage compressor.
[0031] Compared to single-stage compressors, two-stage or multi-stage compressors allow each stage to operate at a lower compression ratio, thereby reducing overheating issues that may occur with single-stage compression and improving overall compression efficiency. Furthermore, because each stage has a relatively low compression ratio, the internal components experience more moderate pressure and temperature changes, reducing the risk of failure and extending equipment lifespan.
[0032] According to another aspect of the present invention, a data center is provided, comprising a server and the aforementioned cooling system, wherein a first evaporator of the cooling system is used to cool the server.
[0033] As a result, the servers in the data center can be cooled in a timely manner, ensuring the continuity and reliability of data center services. Attached Figure Description
[0034] The accompanying drawings, which are included to provide a further understanding of the invention and form part of this application, illustrate exemplary embodiments of the invention and, together with their description, serve to explain the invention and do not constitute an undue limitation thereof. In the drawings:
[0035] Figure 1 A schematic diagram of one embodiment of the refrigeration system of the present invention is shown.
[0036] Figure 2 A schematic diagram of another embodiment of the refrigeration system of the present invention is shown.
[0037] In the picture:
[0038] 1a. First-stage compressor; 1b. Second-stage compressor; 2. Condenser; 3. Ejector; 4. First evaporator; 5. Second gas-liquid separator; 6. First gas-liquid separator; 7a. First switching valve; 7b. Second switching valve; 8a. First throttling device; 8b. Second throttling device; 9. Second evaporator; 10. Detector. Detailed Implementation
[0039] The technical solutions in the embodiments of the present invention will be clearly and completely described below with reference to the accompanying drawings. Obviously, the described embodiments are only a part of the embodiments of the present invention, and not all of them. All other embodiments obtained by those skilled in the art based on the embodiments of the present invention without creative effort are within the scope of protection of the present invention.
[0040] In the description of this invention, it should be understood that the terms "center," "lateral," "longitudinal," "front," "rear," "left," "right," "upper," "lower," "vertical," "horizontal," "top," "bottom," "inner," and "outer," etc., indicate the orientation or positional relationship based on the orientation or positional relationship shown in the accompanying drawings. They are only for the convenience of describing this invention and simplifying the description, and do not indicate or imply that the device or element referred to must have a specific orientation, or be constructed and operated in a specific orientation. Therefore, they should not be construed as limiting the scope of protection of this invention.
[0041] refer to Figure 1As shown, in some embodiments of the refrigeration system provided by the present invention, the refrigeration system includes a compressor, a condenser 2, a first throttling device 8a, and a first evaporator 4 arranged sequentially in the circulation direction of the working fluid. The refrigeration system also includes a first gas-liquid separator 6, a second gas-liquid separator 5, and an ejector 3. Specifically, the first inlet of the first gas-liquid separator 6 is connected to the outlet of the condenser 2, the gas outlet of the first gas-liquid separator 6 is connected to the gas supply port of the compressor, and the liquid outlet of the first gas-liquid separator 6 is connected to the inlet of the first throttling device 8a. The inlet of the second gas-liquid separator 5 is connected to the outlet of the first evaporator 4, and the gas outlet of the second gas-liquid separator 5 is connected to the inlet of the compressor. The inlet of the ejector 3 is connected to the outlet of the condenser 2, the outlet of the ejector 3 is connected to the second inlet of the first gas-liquid separator 6, and the inlet of the ejector 3 is connected to the liquid outlet of the second gas-liquid separator 5, so as to draw the second-state working fluid from the liquid outlet of the second gas-liquid separator 5 through the first-state working fluid at the outlet of the condenser 2.
[0042] As is understood, the working fluid in the refrigeration system in this embodiment of the invention is also called refrigerant. Refrigerant is a substance used to absorb and release heat in the refrigeration cycle, and heat energy is transferred through phase change (conversion between liquid and gas).
[0043] Here, both the first gas-liquid separation device 6 and the second gas-liquid separation device 5 are configured as devices with gas-liquid separation functions. The first throttling device 8a can specifically be a throttling valve, an expansion valve, etc.
[0044] In the refrigeration cycle, the working fluid exiting the first evaporator 4 may contain a certain amount of liquid components. By placing a second gas-liquid separator 5 between the first evaporator 4 and the compressor, the second gas-liquid separator 5 serves two purposes: firstly, it stores the liquid working fluid, preventing the liquid portion of the working fluid output from the first evaporator 4 from directly entering the compressor and causing liquid carryover during compressor intake, thus protecting the compressor from liquid slugging damage; secondly, the second gas-liquid separator 5 can separate the working fluid into gas and liquid components, and connects to the compressor through a gas outlet, further ensuring that the working fluid entering the compressor is primarily gaseous, improving the system's operating efficiency and stability.
[0045] In the refrigeration cycle, the first-state working fluid at the outlet of condenser 2 typically includes a high-temperature, high-pressure liquid working fluid, while the second-state working fluid at the liquid outlet of the second gas-liquid separator 5 typically includes a low-pressure liquid working fluid. The ejector 3 can use the aforementioned high-temperature, high-pressure liquid working fluid to entrain the low-pressure liquid working fluid, causing these two states of working fluid to mix and form a medium-pressure liquid working fluid that enters the first gas-liquid separator 6. The first gas-liquid separator 6 can then output a gaseous working fluid to replenish the compressor. This design achieves efficient energy recovery and utilization, and the recovered energy can replenish the compressor, reducing its compression ratio and thus lowering the compressor's workload, which helps improve the efficiency of the entire refrigeration cycle.
[0046] In some embodiments, the first gas-liquid separation device 6 includes a flash evaporator; and / or the second gas-liquid separation device 5 includes a liquid reservoir.
[0047] Flash evaporators provide a low-pressure environment, causing the working fluid entering the flash evaporator to drop in pressure rapidly, thus quickly forming a two-phase mixture of gaseous and liquid states. The flash evaporator then outputs gaseous working fluid to the compressor, achieving efficient gas replenishment and helping to improve the efficiency of the refrigeration cycle.
[0048] The receiver is used to store the working fluid output from the first evaporator 4. It provides a buffer space for the delivery of the working fluid, which helps to balance the pressure and flow of the system, thereby improving the stability and reliability of the refrigeration cycle.
[0049] refer to Figure 1 and Figure 2 As shown, in some embodiments, the refrigeration system further includes a first switching valve 7a and / or a second switching valve 7b. The first switching valve 7a is disposed between the condenser 2 and the first gas-liquid separator 6. The first switching valve 7a is configured to control the opening and closing of the connecting pipe between the outlet of the condenser 2 and the first inlet of the first gas-liquid separator 6. The second switching valve 7b is disposed between the second gas-liquid separator 5 and the ejector 3. The second switching valve 7b is configured to control the opening and closing of the connecting pipe between the liquid outlet of the second gas-liquid separator 5 and the inlet of the ejector 3.
[0050] By controlling the opening and closing of the first switching valve 7a, the connection between the outlet of the condenser 2 and the first inlet of the first gas-liquid separator 6 can be controlled. By controlling the opening and closing of the second switching valve 7b, the connection between the liquid outlet of the second gas-liquid separator 5 and the inlet of the ejector 3 can be controlled. Here, the opening and closing of the first switching valve 7a and the second switching valve 7b can be coordinated according to the actual needs of the refrigeration system during operation, thereby improving the operational flexibility and adaptability of the refrigeration system.
[0051] In some embodiments, the first switching valve 7a and the second switching valve 7b are configured to: open the first switching valve 7a and close the second switching valve 7b when the liquid working fluid content at the outlet of the first evaporator 4 is less than a first preset value and / or the liquid working fluid content in the second gas-liquid separator 5 is less than a second preset value; and close the first switching valve 7a and open the second switching valve 7b when the liquid working fluid content at the outlet of the first evaporator 4 is greater than or equal to the first preset value and the liquid working fluid content in the second gas-liquid separator 5 is greater than or equal to the second preset value.
[0052] Based on this, the opening and closing states of the first switching valve 7a and the second switching valve 7b are dynamically adjusted according to the real-time content of the liquid working fluid, thereby controlling whether to use the ejector 3 for injection. This setting ensures that the ejector 3 is only activated under suitable conditions (e.g., when enough liquid working fluid is stored in the second gas-liquid separation device 5), such as ensuring that the ejector 3 is activated when there is sufficient liquid working fluid reserve. This not only improves the injection effect but also reduces the number of unnecessary starts of the ejector 3, saving energy.
[0053] In a specific example, the liquid working fluid content in the second gas-liquid separator 5 is less than a second preset value. In this case, the first switching valve 7a is opened and the second switching valve 7b is closed. The circuit containing the ejector 3 does not operate. The flow path of the working fluid is: compressor → condenser 2 → first switching valve 7a → first gas-liquid separator 6 → first evaporator 4 → second gas-liquid separator 5 → compressor. For reference, the second preset value can be set to 5% of the capacity of the second gas-liquid separator 5.
[0054] In another specific example, the liquid working fluid content at the outlet of the first evaporator 4 is greater than or equal to the first preset value, and the liquid working fluid content in the second gas-liquid separator 5 is greater than or equal to the second preset value. At this time, the first switch valve 7a is closed and the second switch valve 7b is opened. Under this condition, the ejector 3 operates. The flow path of the working fluid is as follows: the high-temperature and high-pressure gaseous working fluid discharged from the compressor enters the condenser 2 and exchanges heat with the cooling medium, releasing heat and condensing into a high-temperature and high-pressure liquid working fluid. Then, it enters the ejector 3 for expansion and pressure reduction, and ejects the low-pressure liquid working fluid from the liquid outlet of the second gas-liquid separator 5. The two are fully mixed in the ejector 3 to form a medium-pressure liquid working fluid that enters the first gas-liquid separator 6. The gaseous working fluid at the outlet of the first gas-liquid separator 6 is used for intermediate gas replenishment of the compressor. The liquid working fluid at the outlet of the first gas-liquid separator 6 enters the first evaporator 4 and then enters the second gas-liquid separator 5. The gaseous working fluid at the gas outlet of the second gas-liquid separator 5 returns to the compressor, completing the cycle.
[0055] refer to Figure 1 and Figure 2As shown, in some embodiments, the refrigeration system further includes a detector 10. The detector 10 is configured to detect the liquid working fluid content at the outlet of the first evaporator 4 and / or the liquid working fluid content in the second gas-liquid separator 5. A first switching valve 7a and a second switching valve 7b are coupled to the detector 10 to open or close according to the liquid working fluid content at the outlet of the first evaporator 4 and / or the liquid working fluid content in the second gas-liquid separator 5 detected by the detector 10.
[0056] The detector 10 can detect real-time data on the liquid working fluid content, allowing the first switching valve 7a and the second switching valve 7b to adjust their opening and closing states promptly based on the real-time data detected by the detector 10, thus maintaining the pressure and flow rate of the working fluid in the system at a relatively stable level. In this way, flexibly adjusting the opening and closing timing of the first switching valve 7a and the second switching valve 7b based on the liquid working fluid content not only ensures that the injector 3 maintains a highly efficient operating state during startup, but also helps improve the system's real-time adjustment capability and adaptability to different operating conditions.
[0057] The detector 10 may include a pressure sensor and a temperature sensor, thereby enabling the determination of the working fluid content based on real-time detected pressure and temperature data.
[0058] In some embodiments, detector 10 includes a refrigerant analyzer.
[0059] The refrigerant analyzer can detect the composition of the working fluid at the outlet of the first evaporator 4 and in the second gas-liquid separator 5, including but not limited to the temperature, pressure, and ratio of liquid to gaseous working fluid. The refrigerant analyzer can provide relatively quick and accurate comprehensive information about the working fluid, helping to improve the efficiency and automation of refrigeration system control.
[0060] refer to Figure 2 As shown, in some embodiments, the refrigeration system further includes a second evaporator 9, which is connected between the liquid outlet of the second gas-liquid separator 5 and the inlet of the ejector 3.
[0061] By setting up a second evaporator 9, a different evaporation temperature can be achieved compared to the first evaporator 4, expanding the application range of the refrigeration system. For example, the first evaporator 4 can be used to handle cooling needs within a first temperature range (e.g., refrigeration), while the second evaporator 9 can be used to handle cooling needs within a second temperature range (e.g., air conditioning). Furthermore, the dual evaporator setup can reduce the average heat exchange temperature difference of the evaporators in the system, thereby reducing system energy consumption and improving system performance.
[0062] Here, the working fluid entering the second evaporator 9 comes from the liquid outlet of the second gas-liquid separation device 5 and is a liquid working fluid. Compared with the system instability caused by the entry of gas and liquid two-phase working fluid into the evaporator in related technologies, the present invention can effectively improve the stability of the system.
[0063] refer to Figure 2 As shown, in some embodiments, the refrigeration system further includes a second throttling device 8b, which is connected between the second gas-liquid separator 5 and the second evaporator 9.
[0064] The liquid working fluid stored in the second gas-liquid separator 5 is throttled and depressurized by the second throttling device 8b, preparing it for the subsequent evaporation process in the second evaporator 9. By adjusting the throttling degree of the second throttling device 8b, the flow rate and velocity of the liquid working fluid entering the second evaporator 9 can be controlled, facilitating flexible adjustment of its evaporation process. Based on this, the refrigeration cycles of the first evaporator 4 and the second evaporator 9 can be independently and flexibly controlled, helping to meet diverse cooling requirements.
[0065] Here, the second throttling device 8b can specifically be a throttling valve, an expansion valve, etc.
[0066] In some embodiments, the compressor includes a two-stage compressor or a multi-stage compressor.
[0067] Compared to single-stage compressors, two-stage or multi-stage compressors allow each stage to operate at a lower compression ratio, thereby reducing overheating issues that may occur with single-stage compression and improving overall compression efficiency. Furthermore, because each stage has a relatively low compression ratio, the internal components experience more moderate pressure and temperature changes, reducing the risk of failure and extending equipment lifespan.
[0068] refer to Figure 1 As shown, in a specific example, the compressor includes a first-stage compressor 1a and a second-stage compressor 1b, with the second-stage compressor 1b located downstream of the first-stage compressor 1a in the working fluid circulation direction. In this case, the gas outlet of the first gas-liquid separator 6 can be connected to the gas supply port of the second-stage compressor 1b to supply gas to the second-stage compressor 1b.
[0069] Next, two specific embodiments of the refrigeration system of the present invention will be described using a single evaporator system and a dual evaporator system as examples.
[0070] In the following two embodiments, the compressor is configured as a two-stage compressor, comprising a first-stage compressor 1a and a second-stage compressor 1b arranged sequentially in the circulation direction of the working fluid. The first-stage compressor 1a serves as a low-pressure stage compressor, and the second-stage compressor 1b serves as a high-pressure stage compressor. Example 1:
[0071] refer to Figure 1 As shown, in this embodiment, the refrigeration system includes a first-stage compressor 1a, a second-stage compressor 1b, a condenser 2, a first throttling device 8a, and a first evaporator 4 arranged sequentially in the circulation direction of the working fluid. The refrigeration system also includes a first gas-liquid separator 6, a second gas-liquid separator 5, an ejector 3, and a detector 10.
[0072] The first gas-liquid separator 6 has its first inlet connected to the outlet of the condenser 2, its gas outlet connected to the gas supply port of the second-stage compressor 1b, and its liquid outlet connected to the inlet of the first throttling device 8a. The second gas-liquid separator 5 has its inlet connected to the outlet of the first evaporator 4, and its gas outlet connected to the inlet of the first-stage compressor 1a. The ejector 3 has its inlet connected to the outlet of the condenser 2, its outlet connected to the second inlet of the first gas-liquid separator 6, and its inlet connected to the liquid outlet of the second gas-liquid separator 5, so that the first-state working fluid at the outlet of the condenser 2 can be used to eject the second-state working fluid from the liquid outlet of the second gas-liquid separator 5. A detector 10 is positioned between the first evaporator 4 and the second gas-liquid separator 5 to detect the liquid working fluid content at the outlet of the first evaporator 4 and the liquid working fluid content in the second gas-liquid separator 5.
[0073] In addition, the refrigeration system also includes a first switching valve 7a and a second switching valve 7b. The first switching valve 7a is disposed between the condenser 2 and the first gas-liquid separator 6 to control the opening and closing of the connecting pipe between the outlet of the condenser 2 and the first inlet of the first gas-liquid separator 6. The second switching valve 7b is disposed between the second gas-liquid separator 5 and the ejector 3 to control the opening and closing of the connecting pipe between the liquid outlet of the second gas-liquid separator 5 and the inlet of the ejector 3.
[0074] In this embodiment, the first gas-liquid separation device 6 is a flash evaporator, the second gas-liquid separation device 5 is a liquid storage tank, and the detector 10 is a refrigerant analyzer.
[0075] When the refrigeration system is running, the high-temperature, high-pressure gaseous working fluid discharged from the second-stage compressor 1b enters the condenser 2 to exchange heat with the cooling medium, releasing heat and condensing into a high-temperature, high-pressure liquid working fluid. Then, it enters the inlet of the ejector 3 to expand and reduce pressure, and ejects the low-pressure liquid working fluid from the outlet of the receiver 5. The two states of working fluid are fully mixed in the ejector 3 to form a medium-pressure liquid working fluid, which enters the flash evaporator 6. The gaseous working fluid at the outlet of the flash evaporator 6 is used as intermediate gas for the second-stage compressor 1b. The liquid working fluid at the outlet of the flash evaporator 6 is throttled and reduced in pressure by the first throttling device 8a and then enters the first evaporator 4 to complete phase change refrigeration. After that, it enters the receiver 5. The gaseous working fluid at the outlet of the receiver 5 returns to the first-stage compressor 1a, completing the cycle.
[0076] When the refrigerant analyzer 10 detects that the liquid content in the working fluid at the outlet of the first evaporator 4 is low and the liquid working fluid content in the receiver 5 is less than 5% of the receiver capacity, the first switch valve 7a opens and the second switch valve 7b closes. At this time, the working fluid path is: second stage compressor 1b → condenser 2 → first switch valve 7a → flash evaporator 6 → first throttling device 8a → first evaporator 4 → receiver 5 → first stage compressor 1a. The gaseous working fluid output from the flash evaporator 6 is used for intermediate gas replenishment of the second stage compressor 1b. Example 2:
[0077] refer to Figure 2 As shown, unlike the first embodiment described above, the refrigeration system in this embodiment also includes a second throttling device 8b and a second evaporator 9 disposed between the second switching valve 7b and the ejector 3.
[0078] When the refrigeration system is running, the high-temperature, high-pressure gaseous working fluid discharged from the second-stage compressor 1b enters the condenser 2 and exchanges heat with the cooling medium, releasing heat and condensing into a high-temperature, high-pressure liquid working fluid. It then enters the inlet of the ejector 3 to expand and reduce pressure, and ejects the low-pressure gaseous working fluid from the outlet of the second evaporator 9. The two working fluids are thoroughly mixed in the ejector 3 to form a medium-pressure gas-liquid two-phase working fluid, which enters the flash evaporator 6. The gaseous working fluid at the outlet of the flash evaporator 6 is used as intermediate replenishment gas for the second-stage compressor 1b. The liquid working fluid at the outlet of the flash evaporator 6 is throttled and depressurized by the first throttling device 8a and enters the first evaporator 4 to complete phase change refrigeration. It then enters the receiver 5. The liquid working fluid at the outlet of the receiver 5 is throttled and depressurized by the second throttling device 8b and enters the second evaporator 9 to complete phase change refrigeration. The gaseous working fluid at the outlet of the receiver 5 returns to the first-stage compressor 1a, completing the cycle.
[0079] When the refrigerant analyzer 10 detects that the liquid content in the working fluid at the outlet of the first evaporator 4 is low and the liquid content in the liquid receiver 5 is less than 5% of the receiver capacity, the first switch valve 7a opens and the second switch valve 7b closes, and the second evaporator 9 stops operating. In this case, the configuration of the refrigeration system in Embodiment 2 is the same as that in Embodiment 1 above.
[0080] Based on the aforementioned cooling system, this invention also proposes a data center, which includes servers and the aforementioned cooling system. The first evaporator 4 of the cooling system is used to cool the servers. The second evaporator 9 of the cooling system can also be used for heat dissipation or cooling of other equipment in the data center, depending on actual needs.
[0081] Based on this, the servers and other heat-generating equipment in the data center of this invention can be cooled in a timely manner, ensuring the service continuity and reliability of the data center. Furthermore, because the cooling system can recover and utilize energy and improve the efficiency of its cooling cycle, the data center of this invention can also meet the design requirements of modern data centers for low energy consumption and sustainable development.
[0082] Finally, it should be noted that the above embodiments are only used to illustrate the technical solutions of the present invention and not to limit them; although the present invention has been described in detail with reference to preferred embodiments, those skilled in the art should understand that modifications can still be made to the specific implementation of the present invention or equivalent substitutions can still be made to some technical features without departing from the principle of the present invention, and such modifications and equivalent substitutions should all be covered within the scope of the technical solutions claimed in the present invention.
Claims
1. A refrigeration system comprising a compressor, a condenser (2), a first throttling device (8a), and a first evaporator (4) arranged sequentially in the circulation direction of the working fluid, characterized in that, Also includes: The first gas-liquid separation device (6) has its first inlet connected to the outlet of the condenser (2), its gas outlet connected to the gas supply port of the compressor, and its liquid outlet connected to the inlet of the first throttling device (8a). The inlet of the second gas-liquid separator (5) is connected to the outlet of the first evaporator (4), and the gas outlet of the second gas-liquid separator (5) is connected to the inlet of the compressor. The injector (3) has its inlet connected to the outlet of the condenser (2), its outlet connected to the second inlet of the first gas-liquid separator (6), and its inlet connected to the liquid outlet of the second gas-liquid separator (5), so as to induce the second state working fluid of the liquid outlet of the second gas-liquid separator (5) through the first state working fluid of the condenser (2); and A first switching valve (7a) and / or a second switching valve (7b), wherein the first switching valve (7a) is disposed between the condenser (2) and the first gas-liquid separator (6) and is configured to control the opening and closing of the connecting pipe between the outlet of the condenser (2) and the first inlet of the first gas-liquid separator (6), and the second switching valve (7b) is disposed between the second gas-liquid separator (5) and the ejector (3) and is configured to control the opening and closing of the connecting pipe between the liquid outlet of the second gas-liquid separator (5) and the inlet of the ejector (3).
2. The refrigeration system according to claim 1, characterized in that, The first gas-liquid separation device (6) includes a flash evaporator; and / or The second gas-liquid separation device (5) includes a liquid storage tank.
3. The refrigeration system according to claim 1, characterized in that, The first switching valve (7a) and the second switching valve (7b) are configured as follows: When the liquid working fluid content at the outlet of the first evaporator (4) is less than a first preset value and / or the liquid working fluid content in the second gas-liquid separator (5) is less than a second preset value, the first switching valve (7a) opens and the second switching valve (7b) closes; and When the liquid working fluid content at the outlet of the first evaporator (4) is greater than or equal to the first preset value and the liquid working fluid content in the second gas-liquid separation device (5) is greater than or equal to the second preset value, the first switch valve (7a) is closed and the second switch valve (7b) is opened.
4. The refrigeration system according to claim 3, characterized in that, It also includes a detector (10) configured to detect the liquid working fluid content at the outlet of the first evaporator (4) and / or the liquid working fluid content in the second gas-liquid separator (5), wherein the first switching valve (7a) and the second switching valve (7b) are coupled to the detector (10) to open or close according to the liquid working fluid content at the outlet of the first evaporator (4) and / or the liquid working fluid content in the second gas-liquid separator (5) detected by the detector (10).
5. The refrigeration system according to claim 4, characterized in that, The detector (10) includes a refrigerant analyzer.
6. The refrigeration system according to any one of claims 1 to 5, characterized in that, It also includes a second evaporator (9), which is connected between the liquid outlet of the second gas-liquid separation device (5) and the inlet of the ejector (3).
7. The refrigeration system according to claim 6, characterized in that, It also includes a second throttling device (8b), which is connected between the second gas-liquid separator (5) and the second evaporator (9).
8. The refrigeration system according to any one of claims 1 to 5, characterized in that, The compressor includes a two-stage compressor or a multi-stage compressor.
9. A data center, characterized in that, Includes a server and a cooling system as described in any one of claims 1 to 8, wherein the first evaporator (4) of the cooling system is used to cool the server.
Citation Information
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