Refrigeration and heat pump system with pressure exchanger

Abstract

A fluid handling system includes a pressure exchanger (PX) configured to receive a first fluid at a first pressure and a second fluid at a second pressure and exchange pressure between the first fluid and the second fluid. The system also includes a condenser configured to provide corresponding thermal energy from the first fluid to a corresponding environment. The system also includes a receiver to receive the first fluid output by the pressure exchanger. The receiver forms a chamber to separate the first fluid into a first gas and a first liquid. The system also includes a heat exchanger configured to receive the second fluid from a second outlet of the pressure exchanger and provide the second fluid to a second inlet of the pressure exchanger.

Description

Technical Field

[0001] This disclosure relates to systems, and more specifically, to refrigeration and heat pump systems having pressure exchangers. Background Technology

[0002] The system uses fluids at different pressures. The system uses pumps or compressors to increase the fluid pressure. Attached Figure Description

[0003] This disclosure is shown in the accompanying drawings by way of example rather than by way of limitation.

[0004] Figures 1A to 1B A schematic diagram of a fluid handling system including a hydraulic energy transfer system is shown according to certain embodiments.

[0005] Figures 2A to 2E This is an exploded perspective view of a pressure exchanger (PX) according to certain embodiments.

[0006] Figures 3A to 3P This is a schematic diagram of a refrigeration system including a pressure exchanger according to certain embodiments.

[0007] Figures 4A to 4B This is a schematic diagram of a refrigeration system including a pressure exchanger and an ejector, according to certain embodiments.

[0008] Figures 5A to 5B This is a schematic diagram of a refrigeration system including a pressure exchanger and a secondary evaporator according to certain embodiments.

[0009] Figures 6A to 6C This is a flowchart illustrating an example method for controlling a refrigeration system according to some embodiments.

[0010] Figure 7 This is a block diagram illustrating a computer system according to certain embodiments. Detailed Implementation

[0011] The embodiments described herein relate to refrigeration systems and heat pump systems including pressure exchangers (e.g., fluid handling systems, heat transfer systems, pressure exchanger systems, carbon dioxide (CO2) refrigeration systems, etc.).

[0012] The system can use fluids at different pressures. These systems may include hydraulic fracturing (e.g., water fracturing or hydraulic fracturing) systems, desalination systems, refrigeration systems, heat pump systems, energy generation systems, mud pumping systems, slurry pumping systems, industrial fluid systems, waste liquid systems, fluid transport systems, etc. Pumps or compressors can be used to increase the pressure of the fluids used in the system.

[0013] Traditionally, refrigeration systems use pumps or compressors to increase the pressure of fluids (e.g., refrigerants such as CO2, R-134a, hydrocarbons, hydrofluorocarbons (HFCs), hydrochlorofluorocarbons (HCFCs), ammonia (NH3), refrigerant mixtures, R-407A, R-404A, etc.). Typically, a separate pump or compressor mechanically coupled to a motor is used to increase the fluid pressure. Pumps and compressors operating at large pressure differentials (e.g., causing a significant increase in fluid pressure) require a large amount of energy. Therefore, conventional systems consume a significant amount of energy to increase fluid pressure (via a motor-driven pump or compressor). Furthermore, conventional refrigeration systems reduce fluid pressure via expansion valves and / or heat exchangers (e.g., condensers and / or evaporators, etc.). Conventional systems are not efficient at increasing and decreasing fluid pressure. This is wasteful in terms of the energy used to operate conventional systems (e.g., the energy used to repeatedly increase the pressure of the refrigerant fluid to raise or lower the ambient temperature).

[0014] The systems, apparatus, and methods disclosed herein provide fluid handling systems (e.g., for refrigeration, for cooling, for heating, etc.). In some embodiments, the system (e.g., fluid handling system, refrigeration system, heat pump system, heat transfer system, CO2 refrigeration system, etc.) includes a pressure exchanger (PX) configured to exchange pressure between a first fluid (e.g., a high-pressure portion of a refrigerant fluid in a refrigeration cycle) and a second fluid (e.g., a low-pressure portion of a refrigerant fluid in a refrigeration cycle). In some embodiments, the pressure exchanger may receive the first fluid (e.g., a high-pressure portion of a refrigerant fluid) via a first inlet (e.g., a high-pressure inlet) and the second fluid (e.g., a low-pressure inlet) via a second inlet (e.g., a low-pressure inlet). When entering the pressure exchanger, the first fluid may have a higher pressure than the second fluid. The pressure exchanger may exchange pressure between the first and second fluids. The first fluid may exit the pressure exchanger via a first outlet (e.g., a low-pressure outlet), while the second fluid may exit the pressure exchanger via a second outlet (e.g., a high-pressure outlet). When exiting the pressure exchanger, the second fluid may have a higher pressure than the first fluid (e.g., due to the pressure exchange between the first and second fluids).

[0015] In some embodiments, the system further includes a heat exchanger (e.g., a condenser, a condensing unit (CU), a gas cooler, an air conditioning condenser, etc.) configured to provide a first fluid (e.g., via a first inlet of the pressure exchanger) to the pressure exchanger and transfer corresponding thermal energy (e.g., heat) between the first fluid and a corresponding environment (e.g., a radiator, a heat reservoir, a heat source, a cold storage, ambient air, the ground, etc.). In some embodiments, the first fluid (e.g., a high-pressure fluid) dissipates heat to the environment and condenses in the heat exchanger. The output of the heat exchanger (e.g., a portion of the heat exchanger output, the first fluid, etc.) may be provided to the high-pressure inlet of the pressure exchanger. The heat exchanger may be located upstream of the pressure exchanger in the flow path of the first fluid.

[0016] In some embodiments, the system further includes a receiver (e.g., a flash tank) for receiving a first fluid output from the low-pressure outlet of the pressure exchanger. The receiver may form a chamber in which the gas and liquid components of the low-pressure first fluid can be separated. A booster may receive gas (e.g., gas of the high-pressure first fluid) from the receiver and increase the pressure of the gas to form a second fluid.

[0017] In some embodiments, the system further includes a booster configured to receive gas (e.g., gas of a low-pressure first fluid) from a receiver and increase the pressure of the gas (e.g., a first portion of the first gas) to form a second fluid at a second pressure (e.g., a portion of a low-pressure refrigerant fluid), and supply the second fluid at a second pressure to the pressure exchanger via a second inlet. The booster may be a pump or a compressor and may increase the pressure of the second fluid over a relatively low pressure differential. Further details regarding the pressure differential of the booster are described herein. The booster may supply the second fluid at a second pressure to a low-pressure inlet (e.g., a second inlet) of the pressure exchanger.

[0018] The system may also include one or more of an expansion valve, another heat exchanger (e.g., an evaporator), and a compressor to perform a refrigeration cycle. The refrigerant fluid can expand through the expansion valve, thereby reducing its pressure and temperature. The refrigerant fluid can receive thermal energy (e.g., heat) from another environment (e.g., a heat source, a cold storage unit, etc.) via another heat exchanger (e.g., an evaporator). The refrigerant fluid can be compressed in the compressor to increase its pressure. Thermal energy can be discharged from the refrigerant fluid in the condenser, and a first fluid (e.g., at least a portion of the refrigerant fluid) can flow into a pressure exchanger and exchange pressure with a second fluid as part of the refrigeration cycle.

[0019] In some embodiments, the system includes a pressure exchanger and a condenser. The system may also include an ejector. The ejector may receive a first gas output from the pressure exchanger and increase the pressure of the first gas to form a second fluid at a second pressure. The ejector may supply the second fluid at a second pressure to the pressure exchanger via a second inlet. The ejector may receive high-pressure gas output from a compressor (e.g., the compressor described herein) and mix the high-pressure gas with the first gas in a converging nozzle of the ejector to increase the pressure of the first gas. In some embodiments, the ejector substantially performs the function of a booster as described above.

[0020] In some embodiments, the system includes a pressure exchanger and a condenser. The system may also include a first evaporator and a second evaporator. The first evaporator can provide a corresponding heat energy (e.g., heat) from a portion of a first fluid output from a second environment to the pressure exchanger. The second evaporator can provide a corresponding heat energy (e.g., heat) from another portion of the first fluid output from a third environment to the pressure exchanger. The system may also include a first compressor and a second compressor. The first compressor can receive fluid output from the first evaporator, increase the pressure of the fluid, and supply the fluid to the condenser. The second compressor can receive fluid output from the second evaporator, increase the pressure of the fluid to form a second fluid (e.g., at a second pressure), and supply the second fluid to the pressure exchanger.

[0021] The systems, apparatus, and methods disclosed herein offer advantages over conventional solutions. Compared to conventional systems, the systems of this disclosure can use a reduced amount of energy (e.g., less energy is used to operate a refrigeration cycle or heat pump cycle, etc.). Pressure exchangers can allow energy (e.g., pressure) that would typically be lost in conventional systems. This makes the systems of this disclosure more efficient, thus using less energy compared to conventional solutions and resulting in lower costs for the end user over time. Furthermore, the systems of this disclosure reduce wear on components (e.g., pumps, compressors) compared to conventional systems, because the pumps or compressors in the systems disclosed herein can operate more efficiently (e.g., pressure exchangers perform a portion of increasing fluid pressure to reduce the load on the pump and / or compressor). Additionally, some systems described herein reduce the number of moving parts (e.g., some systems use ejectors instead of boosters). This also allows the systems of this disclosure to have higher reliability, less maintenance, longer component lifespan, less system downtime, and higher throughput (e.g., refrigeration, cooling, heating, etc.). The system disclosed herein may use a pressure exchanger that allows for longer system component life, increased system efficiency, allows end users to choose from a wider range of pumps and / or compressors, reduces maintenance and downtime for pump and / or compressor upkeep, and allows for new instrumentation and control devices.

[0022] Although some embodiments of this disclosure are described with respect to pressure exchangers, energy recovery devices and hydraulic energy transfer systems, this disclosure can be applied to other systems and devices (e.g., non-isobaric pressure exchangers, rotating components of non-pressure exchangers, non-rotating pressure exchangers, systems that do not include pressure exchangers, etc.).

[0023] Although some embodiments of this disclosure are described with respect to the exchange of pressure between fluids used in fracturing systems, desalination systems, heat pump systems, and / or refrigeration systems, this disclosure can be applied to other types of systems. Fluids can refer to liquids, gases, transcritical fluids, supercritical fluids, subcritical fluids, and / or combinations thereof.

[0024] As used herein, the term "condenser" can refer to a gas cooler. In some embodiments, the condenser condenses the fluid. In some embodiments, the condenser does not condense the fluid.

[0025] Figure 1A A schematic diagram of a fluid handling system 100A including a hydraulic energy transfer system 110 according to some embodiments is shown.

[0026] In some embodiments, the hydraulic power transfer system 110 includes a pressure exchanger (e.g., PX). The hydraulic power transfer system 110 (e.g., the pressure exchanger) receives a low-pressure fluid input 120 (e.g., via a low-pressure inlet) from a low-pressure (LP) input system 122. The hydraulic power transfer system 110 also receives a high-pressure fluid input 130 (e.g., via a high-pressure inlet) from a high-pressure (HP) input system 132. The hydraulic power transfer system 110 (e.g., the pressure exchanger) exchanges pressure between the high-pressure fluid input 130 and the low-pressure fluid input 120 to provide a low-pressure fluid output 140 (e.g., via a low-pressure outlet) to a low-pressure fluid output system 142 and a high-pressure fluid output 150 (e.g., via a high-pressure outlet) to a high-pressure fluid output system 152. A controller 180 can regulate the flow rates of the high-pressure fluid input 130 and the low-pressure fluid output 140 via one or more flow valves, pumps, and / or compressors (not shown). The controller 180 can actuate the flow valves.

[0027] In some embodiments, the hydraulic power transmission system 110 includes a pressure exchanger to exchange pressure between a high-pressure fluid input 130 and a low-pressure fluid input 120. In some embodiments, the pressure exchanger is substantially or partially isobaric (e.g., an isobaric pressure exchanger (IPX)). The pressure exchanger may be a means of transmitting fluid pressure between the high-pressure fluid input 130 and the low-pressure fluid input 120 with an efficiency (e.g., pressure transmission efficiency, substantially isobaric) exceeding about 50%, 60%, 70%, 80%, 90% or higher (e.g., without the use of centrifugal technology). High pressure (e.g., high-pressure fluid input 130, high-pressure fluid output 150) refers to a pressure higher than the low pressure (e.g., low-pressure fluid input 120, low-pressure fluid output 140). The low-pressure fluid inlet 120 of the pressure exchanger can be pressurized and exit the pressure exchanger at a high pressure (e.g., a high-pressure fluid output 150 with a pressure greater than that of the low-pressure fluid inlet 120), while the high-pressure fluid inlet 130 can be at least partially depressurized and exit the pressure exchanger at a low pressure (e.g., a low-pressure fluid output 140 with a pressure lower than that of the high-pressure fluid inlet 130). The pressure exchanger can operate with the high-pressure fluid inlet 130 directly applying force to pressurize the low-pressure fluid inlet 120, wherein a fluid separator may or may not be present between the fluids. Examples of fluid separators that can be used with the pressure exchanger include, but are not limited to, pistons, bladders, diaphragms, and / or the like. In some embodiments, the pressure exchanger may be a rotary device. Rotary pressure exchangers, such as those manufactured by Energy Recovery, Inc. of San Leandro, California, may not have any separate valves because effective valve control is accomplished internally via the relative movement of the rotor relative to the end caps. In some embodiments, a rotary pressure exchanger operates with an internal piston to isolate fluids and transmit pressure with relatively little mixing of the inlet fluid flows. In some embodiments, a rotary pressure exchanger operates between fluids without an internal piston. A reciprocating pressure exchanger may include a piston that reciprocates in a cylinder for transmitting pressure between fluid flows. Any or more pressure exchangers may be used in this disclosure, such as, but not limited to, rotary pressure exchangers, reciprocating pressure exchangers, or any combination thereof. Furthermore, the pressure exchanger may be mounted on a unit platform (trolley) separate from other components of the fluid handling system 100A (e.g., where the pressure exchanger is attached to an existing fluid handling system). In some examples, the pressure exchanger may be fastened to a structure that allows it to be moved from one location to another. The pressure exchanger may be coupled to a field-built system (e.g., system piping, etc.). The structure to which the pressure exchanger is fastened may be referred to as a “unit platform”.

[0028] In some embodiments, motor 160 is coupled to hydraulic energy transfer system 110 (e.g., coupled to a pressure exchanger). In some embodiments, motor 160 controls the speed of the rotor of hydraulic energy transfer system 110 (e.g., to increase the pressure of high-pressure fluid output 150, decrease the pressure of high-pressure fluid output 150, etc.). In some embodiments, motor 160 generates energy based on pressure exchange in hydraulic energy transfer system 110 (e.g., used as a generator).

[0029] The hydraulic energy transfer system 110 may include a hydraulic turbocharger or a hydraulic pressure exchanger, such as a rotary pressure exchanger. The pressure exchanger may include one or more chambers and / or channels (e.g., 1 to 100) to facilitate pressure transfer between a first fluid and a second fluid (e.g., a gas, liquid, or multiphase fluid). In some embodiments, the pressure exchanger may transfer pressure between a first fluid (e.g., a pressure exchange fluid, such as a proppant-free fluid, a substantially proppant-free fluid, a low-viscosity fluid, a fluid containing certain chemicals in amounts below a threshold, etc.) and a second fluid, which may have higher viscosity (e.g., highly viscous), including certain chemicals in amounts exceeding a threshold and / or containing solid particles (e.g., fracturing fluid and / or fluids containing sand, proppant, powder, debris, ceramics, contaminants, particles from welded joints or brazed joints, etc.).

[0030] In some embodiments, the low-pressure input system 122 includes a booster (e.g., a pump and / or compressor) to increase fluid pressure, thereby forming a low-pressure fluid input 120. In some embodiments, the low-pressure input system 122 includes an ejector to increase fluid pressure, thereby forming a low-pressure fluid input 120. In some embodiments, the low-pressure input system 122 receives gas from the low-pressure output system 142. In some embodiments, the low-pressure input system 122 receives fluid from a receiver (e.g., a flash tank, etc.). The receiver may receive a low-pressure fluid output 140 from the hydraulic power transfer system 110.

[0031] The fluid handling system 100A may additionally include one or more sensors to provide sensor data (e.g., flow rate data, pressure data, velocity data, etc.) associated with the fluid in the fluid handling system 100A. The controller 180 may control one or more flow rates in the fluid handling system 100A based on the sensor data. In some embodiments, the controller 180 actuates one or more flow valves based on received sensor data. In some embodiments, the controller 180 may perform... Figures 6A to 6C The method of one or more of them.

[0032] One or more components of the hydraulic energy transfer system 110 can be used in different types of systems, such as fracturing systems, desalination systems, refrigeration and heat pump systems (e.g., Figure 1B), slurry pumping systems, industrial fluid systems, waste liquid systems, fluid transmission systems, heat transfer systems, etc.

[0033] Figure 1B A schematic diagram of a fluid handling system 100B including a hydraulic energy transfer system 110 according to certain embodiments is shown. The fluid handling system 100B may be a refrigeration system or a heat pump system. In some embodiments, the fluid handling system 100B is a heat energy (e.g., heat) transfer system (e.g., a heat transfer system, a thermal transfer system). The fluid handling system 100B may be configured to cool and / or heat an environment (e.g., an indoor space, a refrigerator, a freezer, etc.). In some embodiments, the fluid handling system 100B includes a... Figure 1B The examples shown include more components, fewer components, the same wiring, different wiring, and / or similar situations. Figure 1B The figure labels of some features in the figure are similar to Figure 1A Similar to the reference numerals in the accompanying drawings, they may have the same... Figure 1A Those similar characteristics, functions, and / or structures.

[0034] The hydraulic energy transfer system 110 (e.g., a pressure exchanger) can receive a low-pressure fluid input 120 from a low-pressure input system 122 (e.g., a low-pressure booster 128, a low-pressure fluid pump, a low-pressure booster, a low-pressure compressor, a low-pressure injector, etc.) and a high-pressure fluid input 130 from a high-pressure input system 132 (e.g., a condenser 138, a gas cooler, a heat exchanger, etc.). The hydraulic energy transfer system 110 (e.g., a pressure exchanger) can exchange pressure between the low-pressure fluid input 120 and the high-pressure fluid input 130 to provide a high-pressure fluid output 150 to a high-pressure output system 152 (e.g., a high-pressure booster 159, a high-pressure fluid pump, a high-pressure booster, a high-pressure compressor, a high-pressure injector, etc.) and a low-pressure fluid output 140 to a low-pressure output system 142 (e.g., an evaporator 144, a heat exchanger, a receiver 113, etc.). A low-pressure output system 142 (e.g., evaporator 144, receiver 113) can supply fluid to compressor 178 and low-pressure booster 128. Evaporator 144 can supply fluid to compressor 178, and receiver 113 (e.g., flash tank) can supply fluid to low-pressure booster 128. Condenser 138 can receive fluid from compressor 178 and high-pressure booster 159. As used herein, the term "condenser" can be a gas cooler. In some embodiments, the condenser condenses the fluid. In some embodiments, the condenser does not condense the fluid (e.g., it is a gas cooler). Controller 180 can control one or more components of fluid handling system 100B. High-pressure booster 159 can be a high-pressure booster, while low-pressure booster 128 can be a low-pressure booster.

[0035] The fluid handling system 100B can be a closed system. The low-pressure fluid inlet 120, the high-pressure fluid inlet 130, the low-pressure fluid outlet 140, and the high-pressure fluid outlet 150 can all be fluids (e.g., refrigerant, the same fluid) circulating in the closed system of the fluid handling system 100B.

[0036] The fluid handling system 100B may additionally include one or more sensors configured to provide sensor data associated with the fluid. One or more flow valves may control the flow rate of the fluid based on the sensor data received from the one or more sensors. In some embodiments, the controller 180 actuates one or more flow valves (not shown) based on the received sensor data.

[0037] Figures 2A to 2E This is an exploded perspective view of a rotary pressure exchanger 40 (e.g., a rotary pressure exchanger, a rotary liquid piston compressor (LPC)) according to certain embodiments. Figures 2A to 2E Some features in one or more images can have the same characteristics as... Figures 1A to 1B Those similar characteristics, functions, and / or structures in one or more diagrams.

[0038] The pressure exchanger 40 is configured to transfer pressure and / or work between a first fluid (e.g., refrigerant, particulate-free fluid, proppant-free fluid, supercritical carbon dioxide, high-pressure fluid input 130) and a second fluid (e.g., refrigerant, slurry, fracturing fluid, superheated gaseous carbon dioxide, low-pressure fluid input 120) with minimal fluid mixing. The rotary pressure exchanger 40 may include a generally cylindrical body portion 42 comprising a sleeve 44 (e.g., a rotor sleeve) and a rotor 46. The rotary pressure exchanger 40 may also include two end caps 48 and 50, which respectively include manifolds 52 and 54. Manifold 52 includes a corresponding inlet port 56 and an outlet port 58, while manifold 54 includes a corresponding inlet port 60 and an outlet port 62. In operation, these inlet ports 56, 60 allow the first and second fluids to enter the rotary pressure exchanger 40 to exchange pressure, while the outlet ports 58, 62 allow the first and second fluids to subsequently exit the rotary pressure exchanger 40. During operation, inlet port 56 can receive a high-pressure first fluid (e.g., high-pressure fluid input 130) from the condenser, and after pressure exchange, outlet port 58 can be used to deliver a low-pressure first fluid (e.g., low-pressure fluid output 140) from the rotary PX 40 to a receiver (e.g., a flash tank) configured to receive the first fluid from the rotary PX 40. The receiver can form a chamber configured to separate the fluid into gas and liquid. Similarly, inlet port 60 can receive a low-pressure second fluid (e.g., low-pressure slurry fluid, low-pressure fluid input 120) from a booster configured to receive a portion of the gas from the receiver and increase the gas pressure, and outlet port 62 can be used to discharge a high-pressure second fluid (e.g., high-pressure slurry fluid, high-pressure fluid output 150) from the rotary pressure exchanger 40. End caps 48, 50 include corresponding end caps 64, 66 (e.g., end plates) disposed within corresponding manifolds 52, 54, which enable fluid-sealed contact with the rotor 46.

[0039] One or more components of the pressure exchanger 40, such as rotor 46, end cap 64, and / or end cap 66, may be made of a wear-resistant material (e.g., carbide, cemented carbide, silicon carbide, tungsten carbide, etc.) with a hardness greater than a predetermined threshold (e.g., a Vickers hardness value of at least 1000, 1250, 1500, 1750, 2000, 2250, or higher). In some examples, tungsten carbide may be more durable than other materials such as alumina ceramics and may provide improved wear resistance to abrasive fluids. Furthermore, in some embodiments, one or more components of the pressure exchanger 40, such as rotor 46, end cap 64, end cap 66, and / or other sealing surfaces of the pressure exchanger 40, may include inserts. In some embodiments, the insert may be made of one or more wear-resistant materials (e.g., carbides, cemented carbides, silicon carbide, tungsten carbide, etc.) with a hardness greater than a predetermined threshold (e.g., a Vickers hardness value of at least 1000, 1250, 1500, 1750, 2000, 2250 or higher) to provide improved wear resistance.

[0040] The rotor 46 may be cylindrical and may be housed within the sleeve 44, allowing the rotor 46 to rotate about axis 68. The rotor 46 may have a plurality of channels 70 (e.g., pipes, rotor channels) extending substantially longitudinally through the rotor 46, each channel having openings 72 and 74 (e.g., rotor ports) symmetrically arranged about the longitudinal axis 68 at each end. The openings 72 and 74 of the rotor 46 are arranged in hydraulic communication with inlet orifices 76 and 78 (e.g., end cap inlet ports and end cap outlet ports) and inlet orifices 80 and 82 (e.g., end cap inlet ports and end cap outlet ports) in end caps 64, 66, such that the channels 70 are exposed to fluids under high pressure and fluids under low pressure during rotation. As shown, inlet orifices 76 and 78, and inlet orifices 80 and 82, may be designed as arcuate or circular segments (e.g., C-shaped).

[0041] In some embodiments, a controller using sensor data (e.g., revolutions per minute measured by a tachometer or optical encoder, volumetric flow rate measured by a flow meter, etc.) can control the degree of mixing between the first and second fluids in a rotary pressure exchanger, which can be used to improve fluid handling systems (e.g., Figures 1A to 1BThe operability of the fluid handling systems 100A to 100B is improved. In some examples, changing the volumetric flow rate of the first and / or second fluids entering the rotary pressure exchanger 40 allows an operator (e.g., a system operator, plant operator) to control the amount of fluid mixed within the pressure exchanger 40. Furthermore, changing the rotational speed of the rotor 46 (e.g., via a motor) also allows the operator to control the mixing. Three characteristics of the rotary pressure exchanger 40 that affect mixing are: (1) the aspect ratio of the rotor passage 70; (2) the duration of exposure between the first and second fluids; and (3) the formation of barriers (e.g., fluid barriers, pistons, interfaces) between the first and second fluids within the rotor passage 70. First, the rotor passage 70 (e.g., a pipe) is typically long and narrow, which stabilizes the flow within the rotary pressure exchanger 40. Furthermore, the first and second fluids can move through the passage 70 in a piston flow state with minimal axial mixing. Second, in some embodiments, the speed of the rotor 46 reduces the contact between the first and second fluids. In some examples, the speed of rotor 46 (e.g., a rotor speed of approximately 1200 revolutions per minute (RPM)) can reduce the contact time between the first and second fluids to less than approximately 0.15 seconds, 0.10 seconds, or 0.05 seconds. Third, rotor passage 70 (e.g., a portion of rotor passage 70) is used for pressure exchange between the first and second fluids. In some embodiments, a volume of fluid is retained in passage 70 as a barrier between the first and second fluids. All these mechanisms can limit mixing within the rotary pressure exchanger 40. Furthermore, in some embodiments, the rotary pressure exchanger 40 can be designed to operate in conjunction with an internal piston or other barrier that completely or partially isolates the first and second fluids while allowing pressure transmission.

[0042] Figures 2B to 2E This is an exploded view of an embodiment of the rotary pressure exchanger 40, showing the positional sequence of individual rotor channels 70 in the full-cycle rotor 46 as the channel 70 rotates. Note that... Figures 2B to 2E This is a simplified diagram of a rotary pressure exchanger 40 showing a rotor channel 70, with the channel 70 shown as having a circular cross-sectional shape. In other embodiments, the rotary pressure exchanger 40 may include multiple channels 70 having the same or different cross-sectional shapes (e.g., circular, elliptical, square, rectangular, polygonal, etc.). Thus, Figures 2B to 2E This is a simplification for illustrative purposes, and other embodiments of the rotary pressure exchanger 40 may have the same characteristics as... Figures 2A to 2EThe different configurations shown below. As described in detail below, the rotary pressure exchanger 40 facilitates pressure exchange between the first fluid and the second fluid (e.g., particulate-free fluids and slurry fluids, high-pressure refrigerants and low-pressure refrigerants, etc.) by allowing the first fluid and the second fluid to briefly come into contact with each other within the rotor 46. In some embodiments, the pressure exchanger facilitates pressure exchange between the first fluid and the second fluid by allowing the first fluid and the second fluid to contact opposite sides of a barrier (e.g., a reciprocating barrier, a piston, not shown). In some embodiments, this exchange occurs at a speed that results in limited mixing of the first fluid and the second fluid. The speed of the pressure wave traveling through the rotor channel 70 (once the channel is exposed to the orifice 76), the diffusion rate of the fluid, and / or the rotational speed of the rotor 46 determine whether any mixing occurs and the extent of mixing.

[0043] Figure 2B This is a perspective view of an embodiment of a rotary pressure exchanger 40 (e.g., a rotary LPC) according to certain embodiments. Figure 2B In the first position, channel opening 72 is fluidly connected to orifice 78 in end cap 64 and thus to manifold 52, while the opposite channel opening 74 is fluidly connected to orifice 82 in end cap 66 and via an extension to manifold 54. Rotor 46 can rotate clockwise as indicated by arrow 84. During operation, a low-pressure second fluid 86 (e.g., a low-pressure slurry fluid) passes through end cap 66 and enters channel 70, where it contacts first fluid 88 at dynamic fluid interface 90. The second fluid 86 then drives the first fluid 88 out of channel 70, through end cap 64, and out of rotary pressure exchanger 40. However, due to the short duration of contact, mixing between the second fluid 86 (e.g., slurry fluid) and the first fluid 88 (e.g., particle-free fluid) is minimal. In some embodiments, a low-pressure second fluid 86 contacts a first side of a barrier (e.g., a piston, not shown) disposed in the channel 70, which contacts a first fluid 88 (e.g., on the opposite side of the barrier). The second fluid 86 drives the barrier, which pushes the first fluid 88 out of the channel 70. In such embodiments, there is negligible mixing between the second fluid 86 and the first fluid 88.

[0044] Figure 2C This is an exploded perspective view of an embodiment of a rotary pressure exchanger 40 (e.g., a rotary LPC) according to certain embodiments. Figure 2CIn this position, channel 70 has been rotated approximately 90 degrees clockwise. In this position, opening 74 (e.g., outlet) is no longer in fluid communication with orifices 80 and 82 of end cap 66, and opening 72 is no longer in fluid communication with orifices 76 and 78 of end cap 64. Thus, the low-pressure second fluid 86 is temporarily contained within channel 70.

[0045] Figure 2D This is an exploded perspective view of an embodiment of a rotary pressure exchanger 40 (e.g., a rotary LPC) according to certain embodiments. Figure 2D In the middle, channel 70 has already been... Figure 2B The position shown is rotated by approximately 60 degrees. Opening 74 is now in fluid communication with orifice 80 in end cap 66, while opening 72 of channel 70 is now in fluid communication with orifice 76 of end cap 64. In this position, high-pressure first fluid 88 enters and pressurizes low-pressure second fluid 86, thereby driving the second fluid 86 out of rotor channel 70 and through orifice 80.

[0046] Figure 2E This is an exploded perspective view of an embodiment of a rotary pressure exchanger 40 (e.g., a rotary LPC) according to certain embodiments. Figure 2E In the middle, channel 70 has already been... Figure 2B The position shown is rotated by approximately 270 degrees. In this position, opening 74 is no longer in fluid communication with orifices 80 and 82 of end cap 66, and opening 72 is no longer in fluid communication with orifices 76 and 78 of end cap 64. Thus, the first fluid 88 is no longer pressurized and is temporarily contained within channel 70 until rotor 46 rotates another 90 degrees, restarting the cycle.

[0047] Figures 3A to 3P This is a schematic diagram of a refrigeration system 300A-300P including a pressure exchanger according to certain embodiments. Figures 3A to 3P Some features in one or more images can have the same characteristics as... Figures 1A to 1B One or more images and / or Figures 2A to 2E Those similar characteristics, functions, and / or structures in one or more diagrams. Figures 3A to 3P , Figures 4A to 4B and / or Figures 5A to 5B A system with at least one graph in it can be used to perform Figures 6A to 6C Methods for displaying one or more images.

[0048] Figure 3AThis is a schematic diagram of a refrigeration system 300A including a pressure exchanger 310 according to certain embodiments. In some embodiments, the refrigeration system 300A is a heat transfer system and / or a fluid handling system. The pressure exchanger 310 may be a rotary pressure exchanger. In some embodiments, the pressure exchanger 310 is an isobaric or substantially isobaric pressure exchanger. The pressure exchanger 310 may be configured to exchange pressure between a first fluid and a second fluid. In some embodiments, the pressure exchanger 310 is coupled to a motor 360 (e.g., the rotation of the rotor of the pressure exchanger 310 is controlled by the motor 360). In some embodiments, the motor 360 controls the rotational speed of the pressure exchanger 310. The mass flow rate (e.g., of the first fluid and / or the second fluid) through the pressure exchanger 310 may be related to the rotational speed of the pressure exchanger 310. In some embodiments, the pressure of the fluid (e.g., the first fluid) in the condenser 329 may be related to the rotational speed of the pressure exchanger 310. In some embodiments, a controller (e.g., controller 380) receives sensor data from one or more sensors of the motor 360.

[0049] In some embodiments, the pressure exchanger 310 receives a high-pressure first fluid (e.g., via a high-pressure inlet) through a high-pressure inlet. Figures 1A to 1B High-pressure fluid input 130). In some embodiments, pressure exchanger 310 receives a low-pressure second fluid (e.g., via a low-pressure inlet) through a low-pressure inlet. Figures 1A to 1B The low-pressure fluid input 120. Although the terms "high pressure" and "low pressure" are used, they can be relative to each other and do not imply specific pressure values ​​(e.g., the pressure of the high-pressure fluid input 130 is higher than the pressure of the low-pressure fluid input 120). The pressure exchanger 310 can exchange pressure between a first fluid and a second fluid. The pressure exchanger 310 can provide the first fluid via a low-pressure outlet (e.g., low-pressure fluid output 140) and can provide the second fluid via a high-pressure outlet (e.g., high-pressure fluid output 150). In some embodiments, the first fluid provided via the low-pressure outlet is at a low pressure, while the second fluid provided via the high-pressure outlet is at a high pressure.

[0050] In some embodiments, the fluid handling system 300A includes a condenser 329 (e.g., a gas cooler), an evaporator 318, and a compressor 322. In some embodiments, the fluid handling system 300A is a refrigeration system. In some embodiments, the condenser 329 is a heat exchanger that provides heat from a refrigerant (e.g., a first fluid) to the environment.

[0051] In some embodiments, the condenser 329 is a heat exchanger that condenses the fluid flowing through the condenser 329 (e.g., when cooling the fluid). The phase of the refrigerant can change from gas to liquid (e.g., condensation) within the condenser 329.

[0052] In some embodiments, condenser 329 is a heat exchanger that does not condense the fluid flowing through condenser 329 (e.g., cools the fluid but does not condense it). In some embodiments, the fluid pressure within condenser 329 is above the fluid's critical pressure. In some embodiments, condenser 329 is a gas cooler that does not condense (e.g., the fluid in a gaseous state). Condenser 329 can provide heat from the fluid (e.g., gas) to the corresponding environment. In some embodiments, the temperature of the fluid in condenser 329 can be reduced, but the fluid may not condense (e.g., the fluid does not change from a gaseous phase to a liquid phase). In some embodiments, above the critical pressure of the fluid (e.g., refrigerant fluid), the thermodynamic distinction between the liquid and gaseous phases of the fluid within condenser 329 disappears, and only a single fluid state known as the supercritical state exists.

[0053] In some examples, evaporator 318 can provide heat absorbed by system 300A from a heat source (e.g., a cold storage unit) to the refrigerant fluid. The heat can be discharged to a radiator (e.g., a heat storage unit) via condenser 329. In some embodiments, the refrigerant fluid facilitates heat transfer from the environment associated with the evaporator to the environment associated with the condenser. Compressor 322 of the fluid handling system 300A can increase the corresponding pressure of the refrigerant fluid along the flow path between evaporator 318 and condenser 329. In some embodiments, the refrigerant fluid is CO2 or another refrigerant fluid. The refrigerant fluid can flow substantially in a single cycle (e.g., from condenser 329 to pressure exchanger 310 to evaporator 318 to compressor 322 to condenser 329, etc.).

[0054] In some embodiments, the fluid handling system 300A includes a low-pressure booster (e.g., low-pressure booster 314) and / or a high-pressure booster (e.g., high-pressure booster 324). Both low-pressure booster 314 and high-pressure booster 324 can be configured to increase (e.g., boost) the pressure of a second fluid. For example, low-pressure booster 314 can increase the pressure of the second fluid output from evaporator 318 (e.g., received from pressure exchanger 310). High-pressure booster 324 can increase the pressure of the second fluid output from pressure exchanger 310. The second fluid can be (e.g., by high-pressure booster 324) supplied in combination with fluid output from compressor 322 (e.g., upstream of the inlet of condenser 329) to supply condenser 329. Low-pressure booster 314 can increase the pressure to below a threshold amount (e.g., low-pressure booster 314 can operate at a pressure differential below a threshold amount). In some examples, the low-pressure booster 314 can increase the pressure of the second fluid by approximately 10 to 60 psi. As the second fluid flows from the low-pressure booster 314 to the second inlet of the pressure exchanger 310, the second fluid may experience pressure losses (e.g., due to fluid friction losses in the piping). The high-pressure booster 324 can increase the pressure of the second fluid between the second outlet of the pressure exchanger 310 and the inlet of the condenser 329. The high-pressure booster 324 can increase the pressure to a level below a threshold (e.g., the high-pressure booster 324 can operate at a pressure differential below a threshold). In some examples, the high-pressure booster 324 can increase the pressure of the second fluid by approximately 10 to 60 psi. The high-pressure booster 324 can increase the pressure of the second fluid to a level substantially matching the pressure of the fluid output from the compressor 322 (e.g., the pressure of the condenser 329). Compared to the low-pressure booster 314 and the high-pressure booster 324, the compressor 322 increases the pressure of the fluid to a level exceeding a threshold (e.g., the compressor 322 can operate at a pressure differential greater than a threshold). In some examples, compressor 322 can increase the pressure of the fluid by more than about 200 psi. In some embodiments, controller 380 controls the flow rate of the fluid through pressure exchanger 310 by controlling the flow rate of low-pressure booster 314. In some examples, controller 380 may set the flow rate of low-pressure booster 314 to control the flow rate of the first fluid through pressure exchanger 310.

[0055] In some embodiments, the evaporator 318 is a heat exchanger that exchanges (e.g., provides) corresponding heat energy from the environment (e.g., an ambient medium) to the refrigerant fluid. In some examples, the evaporator 318 may receive heat (e.g., thermal energy) from the ambient air and provide that heat to the refrigerant fluid. In some embodiments, the environment is a refrigerated space, such as the interior of a refrigerator or freezer, the interior space of a building or vehicle, or any other space that needs to be kept cool. In some examples, the environment may be the interior of a freezer or refrigerated section of a supermarket or warehouse.

[0056] In some embodiments, condenser 329 is a heat exchanger that transfers corresponding thermal energy (e.g., heat) between the refrigerant fluid and the environment. In some embodiments, condenser 329 is used to provide the thermal energy of the refrigerant fluid to another environment (e.g., an environment different from the environment associated with evaporator 318). In some examples, condenser 329 can exhaust heat (e.g., thermal energy) into the air of the external environment. In some embodiments, condenser 329 exchanges (e.g., exhausts heat) to the external space. In some examples, condenser 329 may be placed on the exterior of a supermarket or warehouse building (e.g., on the roof of the building) and exhausts heat to the external environment. In another example, condenser 329 may be placed in the ground and facilitates the transfer of thermal energy between the refrigerant fluid and the ground. In some embodiments, condenser 329 exhausts heat into the interior space, while evaporator 318 absorbs heat from the exterior space (e.g., as in a heat pump configuration that provides heating). The thermal energy exhausted from condenser 329 can be used to heat enclosed (e.g., substantially enclosed) spaces. In another example, the evaporator 318 can be placed in the ground and facilitates the transfer of heat energy from the ground to the cooling fluid.

[0057] The fluid handling system 300A may include a controller 380 (e.g., Figure 1A (Referring to controller 180 in Figure 1D). Controller 380 can control the booster and / or compressor of system 300A. Controller 380 can receive sensor data from one or more sensors of system 300A. Sensors may include pressure sensors, flow rate sensors, and / or temperature sensors. In some embodiments, controller 380 controls a motor (e.g., motor 360) coupled to pressure exchanger 310. In some embodiments, controller 380 receives motor data from one or more motor sensors associated with motor 360. Motor data received from motor sensors may include current motor speed (e.g., revolutions per minute), total motor running time, motor running time between maintenance operations, and / or total motor revolutions. Motor data may indicate the performance status of the motor.

[0058] In some embodiments, controller 380 receives sensor data indicating the temperature of a refrigerated space (e.g., a cold storage unit near evaporator 318) and / or a heated space (e.g., a heat storage unit near condenser 329). Controller 380 may control the low-pressure booster 314, high-pressure booster 324, and / or compressor 322 based on sensor data received from one or more sensors of the fluid handling system 300A (e.g., one or more fluid flow rate sensors, temperature sensors, pressure sensors, etc.). In some embodiments, one or more sensors (e.g., pressure sensors, flow sensors, temperature sensors, etc.) are located near the inlet and / or outlet of various components of the fluid handling system 300A. In some embodiments, one or more sensors are located inside components of the fluid handling system 300A. In some examples, a pressure sensor may be located near the inlet of compressor 322, while an additional pressure sensor may be located near the outlet of compressor 322. In some examples, a temperature sensor may be located near the inlet of evaporator 318, while another temperature sensor may be located near the outlet of evaporator 318. In some examples, a temperature sensor may be located inside condenser 329. In some examples, a flow sensor may be located at each of the inlet and outlet of the pressure exchanger 310 to measure the flow rate of the first and second fluids flowing into and out of the pressure exchanger 310.

[0059] The terms "first fluid" and "second fluid" are used herein. In some embodiments, the first fluid and the second fluid are fluids of the same type (e.g., a refrigerant fluid flowing in a fluid handling system). "First fluid" may refer to fluid flowing from the high-pressure inlet of pressure exchanger 310 through pressure exchanger 310 to the low-pressure outlet of pressure exchanger 310 and / or flowing to or away from the high-pressure inlet and / or low-pressure outlet of pressure exchanger 310. "Second fluid" may refer to fluid flowing from the low-pressure inlet of pressure exchanger 310 through pressure exchanger 310 to the high-pressure outlet of pressure exchanger 310 and / or flowing to or away from the low-pressure inlet and / or high-pressure outlet of pressure exchanger 310. In some embodiments, the first fluid may be a refrigerant fluid in a supercritical state (e.g., supercritical CO2). In some embodiments, the first fluid may be a refrigerant fluid in a liquid state (e.g., liquid CO2). In some embodiments, the second fluid may be a refrigerant fluid in a gaseous state (e.g., CO2 vapor). In some embodiments, the second fluid may be a refrigerant fluid in a two-phase state (e.g., a CO2 liquid-gas mixture). In some embodiments, the second fluid may be a refrigerant fluid in a liquid state (e.g., liquid CO2).

[0060] In some embodiments, system 300A is a heat pump system capable of heating an environment (e.g., an indoor space). In such a heat pump system, condenser 329 is located indoors, while evaporator 318 is located outdoors. In the heat pump system, the evaporator absorbs heat from the environment and evaporates it before sending the two-phase refrigerant fluid flowing through the evaporator to the compressor inlet. In some embodiments, to switch from a refrigeration or air-cooled system to a heat pump system, a reversing valve can be used to switch the flow of fluid leaving compressor 322 between an inlet directed toward the outdoor unit or an inlet directed toward the indoor unit. In some embodiments, one or more valves and conduits can be used to direct fluid flow in the same direction through all components (e.g., one or more pressure exchangers 310, low-pressure booster 314, high-pressure booster 324, compressor 322, and / or similar components) while switching fluid flow from the indoor unit to the outdoor unit.

[0061] In some embodiments, the direction of heat transfer (e.g., thermal transfer) in system 300A can be reversible. For example, in a refrigeration / air conditioning / air cooling embodiment of system 300A, the outdoor condenser 329 discharges heat (e.g., provides corresponding heat energy from the refrigerant fluid to the corresponding environment), and the evaporator 318 absorbs heat (e.g., provides corresponding heat energy from the corresponding environment to the refrigerant fluid). In a heat pump embodiment of system 300A, the indoor condenser 329 discharges heat to its indoor environment, while the evaporator 318 absorbs heat from its outdoor environment. In some embodiments, system 300A includes one or more valves (e.g., reversing valves, one or more diverter valves, etc.) to reverse the function of system 300A (e.g., reverse the heat flow facilitated by system 300A). In some embodiments, one or more refrigerant fluid flows (e.g., to / from pressure exchanger 310, to / from high-pressure booster 324, to / from low-pressure booster 314, to / from compressor 322, to / from condenser 329, and / or to / from evaporator 318) can be reversed and / or diverted. In some examples, one or more reversing or diverting valves included in system 300A can direct fluid from compressor 322 to the outdoor unit. Similar valves can direct fluid from compressor 322 to the indoor unit.

[0062] The reversibility of the system 300A can be controlled (e.g., via controller 380, via a programmable thermostat located in the indoor space, via user input, etc.). In some examples, controller 380 can determine (e.g., based on temperature data, based on user input, based on scheduling) whether to use system 300A to heat or cool the indoor space. In some embodiments, controller 380 can actuate one or more valves (e.g., reversing valves, one or more diverting valves, etc.) to reverse the flow of fluid through the system. In embodiments where the function of system 300A is reversible (e.g., reversible between heating and cooling the indoor space), evaporator 318 can be an internal heat exchanger (e.g., located within the indoor space, in an air handling system that supplies airflow to the indoor space), while condenser 329 can be an external heat exchanger (e.g., located outside the indoor space). In other embodiments, evaporator 318 can be an outdoor heat exchanger, while condenser 329 can be an indoor heat exchanger.

[0063] In some embodiments, the systems described herein (e.g., Figures 1A to 7 A system that uses one or more diagrams can be used to heat an interior space, cool an interior space, and / or selectively (e.g., reversibly) heat and cool a space.

[0064] Figure 3B This is a schematic diagram of a refrigeration system 300B including a pressure exchanger (PX) according to certain embodiments. In some embodiments, the refrigeration system 300B is a heat transfer system and / or a fluid handling system. In some embodiments, features having reference numerals similar to those in other figures include characteristics, structures, and / or functionalities similar to those described in other figures. In some examples, the fluid handling system 300B is characterized by features similar to... Figure 3A Similar characteristics, structure and / or function to the fluid handling system 300A.

[0065] The fluid handling system 300B may include a flash tank 313 (e.g., a receiver). In some embodiments, the flash tank 313 is a receiver configured to receive a flow of fluid (e.g., a first fluid) exiting from the low-pressure outlet of the pressure exchanger 310. The flash tank 313 may form a chamber to collect the first fluid from the first outlet of the pressure exchanger 310. The flash tank 313 may receive the first fluid in a two-phase state (e.g., liquid and gas). In some embodiments, the flash tank 313 is a tank constructed of welded metal sheets. The flash tank 313 may be made of steel (e.g., sheet metal, plate, etc.). The first fluid (at low pressure) may separate into gas and liquid within the flash tank 313. The liquid portion of the first fluid may settle at the bottom of the flash tank 313, while the gas portion of the first fluid may rise to the top of the flash tank 313. The liquid may flow from the flash tank 313 to the evaporator 318 (e.g., via an expansion valve 316). The chamber of the flash tank 313 may be maintained at a set pressure. The pressure can be set by a user (e.g., operator, technician, engineer, etc.) and / or by a controller (e.g., controller 380). In some embodiments, the pressure of the flash tank 313 is controlled by one or more valves (e.g., flash gas valve 320, pressure regulating valve, safety valve, etc.). In some embodiments, the flash tank 313 includes at least one pressure sensor (e.g., pressure transducer).

[0066] The fluid handling system 300B may include an expansion valve 316. In some embodiments, the expansion valve 316 is disposed along a flow path between the flash tank 313 and the evaporator 318. The expansion valve 316 may be an adjustable valve (e.g., an electronic expansion valve, a thermostatic expansion valve, a ball valve, a gate valve, a lift valve, etc.). The expansion valve 316 may be controlled by a user (e.g., a technician, operator, engineer, etc.) and / or by a controller 380. In some embodiments, the controller 380 actuates the expansion valve 316 based on sensor data (e.g., pressure sensor data, flow rate sensor data, temperature sensor data, etc.). In some embodiments, the expansion valve 316 is a thermal expansion valve. The expansion valve 316 may be actuated (e.g., opened and / or closed) based on temperature data associated with the evaporator 318 (e.g., temperature data of the refrigerant fluid leaving the evaporator). In some examples, the sensing ball of expansion valve 316 (e.g., a temperature sensor, a temperature-dependent pressure sensor, etc.) can increase or decrease the pressure on the diaphragm of expansion valve 316, causing a lift valve connected to the diaphragm to open or close, thereby allowing more or less fluid to flow to evaporator 318, and consequently causing more or less fluid to expand. The sensing ball of expansion valve may be located near the downstream end of evaporator 318 (e.g., near the fluid outlet of evaporator 318) and may be fluidly connected to the diaphragm via a sensing capillary (e.g., a conduit between the sensing ball and expansion valve 316). In some embodiments, expansion valve 316 is controlled and actuated entirely based on electronic commands (e.g., from controller 380).

[0067] The fluid handling system 300B may include a flash gas valve 320 to regulate gas flow in a flash gas bypass flow path. In some embodiments, the flash gas valve 320 is a bypass valve that regulates the gas flow from the gas outlet of the flash tank 313 to combine with the output of the evaporator 318. In some embodiments, the gas flow from the flash tank 313 flows along the flash gas bypass flow path to bypass the evaporator 318. In some embodiments, the flash gas flow path is located between the flash tank 313 and the outlet of the evaporator 318. The gas flowing along the flash gas bypass flow path can combine with the output of the evaporator 318. As the gas flows toward the compressor 320, the flash gas valve 322 can cause the gas collected in the flash tank 313 to expand (e.g., decrease in pressure). In some embodiments, the flash gas valve 320 may be a regulating valve. In some embodiments, the flash gas valve 320 is actuated by a controller 380 based on sensor data.

[0068] In some embodiments, such as Figure 3BAs shown, a low-pressure booster 314 receives fluid flow from a flash tank 313. In some embodiments, the low-pressure booster 314 receives a gas flow from the flash tank 313. In some examples, the low-pressure booster 314 receives a portion of the gas flowing along a flash gas bypass flow path between the flash tank 313 and the flash gas valve 320. In some embodiments, the low-pressure booster 314 receives fluid and increases the pressure of the fluid to form a second fluid (e.g., at a second pressure). The fluid at the increased pressure (e.g., the second pressure) is provided as the second fluid to the second inlet of the pressure exchanger 310. In some embodiments, the low-pressure booster 314 is a compressor or pump that operates at a low pressure differential to "boost" the pressure of the gas received from the flash tank 313. In some embodiments, the high-pressure booster 324 is a compressor or pump that operates at a low pressure differential to boost the pressure of the fluid (e.g., the second fluid) received from the second outlet of the pressure exchanger. In some embodiments, the compressor is configured to increase the pressure of a fluid that is substantially gaseous, while the pump is configured to increase the pressure of a fluid that is substantially liquid.

[0069] Figure 3C This is a schematic diagram of a refrigeration system 300C including a pressure exchanger (PX) according to certain embodiments. In some embodiments, the refrigeration system 300C is a heat transfer system and / or a fluid handling system. In some embodiments, features having reference numerals similar to those in other figures include characteristics, structures, and / or functionalities similar to those described in other figures. In some examples, the fluid handling system 300C is characterized by features similar to... Figures 3A to 3B One or more similar characteristics, structures and / or functions in the fluid handling systems 300A-300B.

[0070] The fluid handling system 300C may include a parallel compressor 350. In some embodiments, the parallel compressor 350 receives gas from a flash tank 313. The parallel compressor 350 may receive gas from the flash tank 313. The parallel compressor 350 may operate in parallel with a pressure exchanger 310. The parallel compressor 350 can increase the pressure of the gas received from the flash tank 313 to a pressure substantially similar to the pressure of the fluid output from the compressor 322. The parallel compressor 350 can compress excess flash gas from the flash tank 313 that exceeds the flow capacity of the pressure exchanger 310, thus avoiding contamination from the flow. Figure 3BThe flash gas valve 320 shown reduces the pressure of the flash gas. Combining the parallel compressor 350 with the pressure exchanger 310 can improve the system's energy efficiency. The parallel compressor 350 can provide compressed gas to be combined with the output of compressor 322. The parallel compressor 350 can be a rotary compressor or a reciprocating compressor. In some embodiments, the work performed by the parallel compressor 350 reduces the work performed by the compressor 322, thereby improving system efficiency because the parallel compressor 350 operates at a pressure differential smaller than that of the compressor 322.

[0071] Figure 3D This is a schematic diagram of a refrigeration system 300D including a pressure exchanger (PX) according to certain embodiments. In some embodiments, the refrigeration system 300D is a heat transfer system and / or a fluid handling system. In some embodiments, features having reference numerals similar to those in other figures include characteristics, structures, and / or functionalities similar to those described in other figures. In some examples, the fluid handling system 300D is characterized by features similar to... Figures 3A to 3C One or more similar characteristics, structures and / or functions in the fluid handling systems 300A-300C.

[0072] The low-pressure booster 314 of the fluid handling system 300D can receive fluid via one or more of low-pressure suction lines 353 or 354. Low-pressure suction line 353 can direct fluid from a flash gas bypass flow path (e.g., between flash tank 313 and flash gas valve 320) to low-pressure booster 314. Low-pressure suction line 354 can deliver fluid output from the evaporator and / or flash gas bypass (e.g., downstream of the outlet of evaporator 318) to low-pressure booster 314. In some embodiments, the pressure of the fluid received via low-pressure suction line 354 (e.g., by low-pressure booster 314) is lower than the pressure of the gas received via low-pressure suction line 353 (e.g., because the gas is received downstream of flash gas valve 320, this reduces the flash gas pressure). A three-way selector valve (not shown) can be used to connect either suction line 354 or suction line 353 to the inlet fluid of low-pressure booster 314. Processing logic (e.g., control algorithm, processing device, controller 380) can determine which suction line should be connected to the inlet fluid of low-pressure booster 314 based on sensor data (e.g., pressure sensor data, temperature sensor data, flow sensor data, etc.). For example, in response to the gas in flash tank 313 reaching a threshold amount (e.g., there is almost no gas in flash tank 313) (e.g., when the ambient temperature is low, the expansion through pressure exchanger 310 may produce much more liquid than gas), low-pressure booster 314 receives more gas through suction line 354. Controller 380 can cause the three-way selector valve to connect the inlet fluid of low-pressure booster 314 to low-pressure suction line 353 (e.g., to provide flow between low-pressure booster 314 and low-pressure suction line 352). This allows the pressure exchanger 310 to operate close to its flow capacity, thus saving more energy.

[0073] Figure 3E This is a schematic diagram of a refrigeration system 300E including a pressure exchanger (PX) according to certain embodiments. In some embodiments, the refrigeration system 300E is a heat transfer system and / or a fluid handling system. In some embodiments, features having reference numerals similar to those in other figures include characteristics, structures, and / or functionalities similar to those described in other figures. In some examples, the fluid handling system 300C is characterized by features similar to... Figures 3A to 3D One or more similar characteristics, structures and / or functions in the fluid handling systems 300A-300D.

[0074] The fluid handling system 300E may include a flash gas heat exchanger 361. The flash gas heat exchanger 361 can receive a first fluid from the condenser 329 and supply the first fluid to the pressure exchanger 310. The flash gas heat exchanger 361 can receive flash gas from the flash gas valve 320 and supply flash gas to mix with the fluid output from the evaporator 318. The flash gas heat exchanger 361 can transfer thermal energy (e.g., heat) between the first fluid and the flash gas. The flash gas heat exchanger 361 can provide corresponding thermal energy (e.g., heat) from the first fluid output from the condenser 329 (e.g., upstream of the high-pressure inlet of the pressure exchanger 310) to the flash gas output from the flash gas valve 320 (e.g., gas flowing from the flash tank 313 along the flash gas flow path). The heat exchange facilitated by the flash gas heat exchanger 361 allows the liquid flowing through the flash gas bypass flow path to evaporate. Furthermore, in some embodiments, the flash gas heat exchanger 361 further cools the first fluid exiting the condenser 329 upstream of the high-pressure inlet of the pressure exchanger 310. Further cooling of the first fluid can increase the liquid content of the first fluid at the low-pressure outlet of the pressure exchanger 310, reducing (e.g., the total mass flow rate per unit of heat absorbed by the system) and increasing the system's coefficient of performance (COP) (e.g., the ratio of useful heating or cooling provided to the work (energy) used). The system's COP can be an indicator of system efficiency (e.g., an increase in system COP indicates an improvement in system efficiency).

[0075] Figure 3F This is a schematic diagram of a refrigeration system 300F including a pressure exchanger (PX) according to certain embodiments. In some embodiments, the refrigeration system 300F is a heat transfer system and / or a fluid handling system. In some embodiments, features having reference numerals similar to those in other figures include characteristics, structures, and / or functionalities similar to those described in other figures. In some examples, the fluid handling system 300F is characterized by features similar to... Figures 3A to 3E One or more similar characteristics, structures and / or functions in the fluid handling systems 300A-300E.

[0076] Fluid handling system 300F may include a flash gas heat exchanger 361 similar to that of fluid handling system 300E. However, in fluid handling system 300F, flash gas heat exchanger 361 can exchange corresponding heat energy between gas flowing along a flash gas bypass flow path output from flash gas valve 320 and a second fluid output from low-pressure booster 314 (e.g., upstream of the low-pressure inlet of pressure exchanger 310). The heat energy exchange facilitated by flash gas heat exchanger 361 can cause the liquid flowing along the flash gas bypass flow path to vaporize. Furthermore, in some embodiments, flash gas heat exchanger 361 can cool the second fluid output from low-pressure booster 314, thereby increasing the density of the second fluid, resulting in a higher mass flow rate inlet to pressure exchanger 310 and a correspondingly lower mass flow rate to main compressor 322. This may result in a higher system COP.

[0077] Figure 3G This is a schematic diagram of a refrigeration system 300G including a pressure exchanger (PX) according to certain embodiments. In some embodiments, the refrigeration system 300G is a heat transfer system and / or a fluid handling system. In some embodiments, features having reference numerals similar to those in other figures include characteristics, structures, and / or functionalities similar to those described in other figures. In some examples, the fluid handling system 300G is characterized by features similar to... Figures 3A to 3F One or more similar characteristics, structures and / or functions of the fluid handling systems 300A-300F.

[0078] The evaporator 318 of the fluid handling system 300G can operate in an overflow state. In some examples, both liquid and gas can flow through the evaporator 318 in some embodiments. Operating the evaporator 318 in an overflow state allows for an increase in pressure on the suction side of the compressor 322 (e.g., the upstream side of the compressor 322), thereby reducing the pressure differential that the compressor 322 must overcome, thus reducing the energy required by the compressor 322 and improving system efficiency. In some embodiments, the fluid leaving the evaporator 318 (e.g., through the outlet of the evaporator 318) can be in a two-phase state (e.g., liquid and gas). The liquid can accumulate in an accumulator 338. In some embodiments, the accumulator 338 is a receiver for receiving fluid from the evaporator 318 and the flash gas bypass. In some embodiments, the accumulator 338 forms a chamber similar to the flash tank 313. The chamber of the accumulator 338 can be maintained at a substantially constant (e.g., semi-constant) pressure. In some embodiments, the accumulator 338 includes one or more pressure sensors. Liquid collected in accumulator 338 can be pumped to the low-pressure inlet of pressure exchanger 310 by low-pressure booster 314 (e.g., in some embodiments, a pump configured to pump liquid). Gas from accumulator 338 can flow to compressor 322.

[0079] In some embodiments, the second fluid supplied by the low-pressure booster 314 to the low-pressure inlet of the pressure exchanger 310 is in a liquid state. The second fluid may also be in a liquid state at the high-pressure outlet of the pressure exchanger 310. In some embodiments, the second fluid may be in a subcooled liquid state at the high-pressure outlet of the pressure exchanger 310. The high-pressure booster 324 may pump the second fluid from the high-pressure outlet of the pressure exchanger 310 to the low-pressure inlet of the pressure exchanger 310. The output of the condenser 329 may be combined with the fluid pumped by the high-pressure booster 324 (e.g., output from the high-pressure booster 324) to be received by the pressure exchanger 310 via the high-pressure inlet.

[0080] Figure 3H This is a schematic diagram of a refrigeration system 300H including a pressure exchanger (PX) according to certain embodiments. In some embodiments, the refrigeration system 300H is a heat transfer system and / or a fluid handling system. In some embodiments, features having reference numerals similar to those in other figures include characteristics, structures, and / or functionalities similar to those described in other figures. In some examples, the fluid handling system 300H is characterized by features similar to... Figures 3A to 3G One or more similar characteristics, structures and / or functions in the fluid handling systems 300A-300G.

[0081] The fluid handling system 300H may include a secondary evaporator 319 and a secondary expansion valve 358. In some embodiments, the secondary evaporator 319 receives a portion of the fluid flow from the flash tank 313 via the secondary expansion valve 358. The secondary expansion valve 358 may control the flow of fluid to the secondary evaporator 319. In some embodiments, a controller 380 may control the secondary expansion valve 358. In some embodiments, the controller 380 actuates the secondary expansion valve 358 (e.g., opens and / or closes) based on sensor data received by the controller 380. The sensor data may include pressure sensor data, flow sensor data, and / or temperature sensor data, particularly temperature data associated with the secondary evaporator 319. In some embodiments, the secondary expansion valve 358 has characteristics and / or performance substantially similar to the expansion valve 316 described herein. In some embodiments, the fluid flowing through the secondary expansion valve 358 expands as it flows through the secondary expansion valve 358.

[0082] In some embodiments, the secondary evaporator 319 is a heat exchanger that provides corresponding thermal energy (e.g., heat) from the environment to the fluid flowing through the secondary evaporator 319. In some embodiments, the thermal energy provided by the secondary evaporator 319 comes from an environment different from the environment that provides thermal energy to the evaporator 318. In some embodiments, the temperature of the environment that provides thermal energy to the secondary evaporator 319 is different from the temperature of the environment that provides thermal energy to the evaporator 318. In some examples, the evaporator 318 may exchange thermal energy with the refrigerated section of a supermarket, while the secondary evaporator 319 may exchange thermal energy with the frozen section of the supermarket, which is colder than the refrigerated section. In some embodiments, the secondary evaporator 319 is a low-temperature (LT) evaporator (e.g., a freezer) operating at a temperature lower than that of the evaporator 318 (e.g., a medium-temperature evaporator, a refrigerator). In some embodiments, the fluid output from the secondary evaporator 319 is compressed by the secondary compressor 356 before being combined with the fluid output from the evaporator 318 and / or the fluid output from the flash gas valve 320. In some embodiments, any of the systems 300A-300M may include a secondary evaporator 319 and a secondary compressor 356 as described herein.

[0083] Figure 3I This is a schematic diagram of a refrigeration system 300I including a pressure exchanger (PX) according to certain embodiments. In some embodiments, the refrigeration system 300I is a heat transfer system and / or a fluid handling system. In some embodiments, features having reference numerals similar to those in other figures include characteristics, structures, and / or functionalities similar to those described in other figures. In some examples, the fluid handling system 300I is characterized by features similar to... Figures 3A to 3H One or more similar characteristics, structures and / or functions in the fluid handling systems 300A-300H.

[0084] The fluid handling system 300I may include a liquid pump 340. In some embodiments, the liquid pump 340 may pump liquid from a accumulator 338 to the inlet of an evaporator 318. The liquid pumped by the liquid pump 340 may be combined with fluid exiting from an expansion valve 316 (e.g., upstream of the inlet of the evaporator 318). The liquid pump 340 may be controlled by a controller 380. In some embodiments, the fluid exiting the condenser 329 is in a liquid state. Therefore, in some embodiments, a high-pressure booster 324 pumps liquid from the outlet of the condenser 329 to the high-pressure inlet of a pressure exchanger 310. The high-pressure booster 324 may increase the pressure of the liquid exiting from the condenser 329 to the high-pressure inlet of the pressure exchanger 310.

[0085] Figure 3JThis is a schematic diagram of a refrigeration system 300J including a pressure exchanger (PX) according to certain embodiments. In some embodiments, the refrigeration system 300J is a heat transfer system and / or a fluid handling system. In some embodiments, features having reference numerals similar to those in other figures include characteristics, structures, and / or functionalities similar to those described in other figures. In some examples, the fluid handling system 300J is characterized by features similar to... Figures 3A to 3I One or more similar characteristics, structures and / or functions of the fluid handling systems 300A-300I.

[0086] The fluid handling system 300J may include a parallel valve 348. The parallel valve 348 may be an expansion valve or a flow control valve. In some embodiments, the parallel valve 348 selectively regulates the flow rate of fluid from the outlet of the condenser 329 to the flash tank 313, which is connected in parallel with the pressure exchanger 310. In some embodiments, the parallel valve 348 controls the pressure of the condenser 329 (e.g., a gas cooler) by selectively opening or closing (e.g., the orifice of the parallel valve 348). In some embodiments, the parallel valve 348 may be actuated to selectively regulate the flow of fluid or selectively regulate the pressure of fluid within the condenser 329. The parallel valve 348 may selectively supply a portion of the fluid output from the condenser 329 to the expansion tank 313. In some examples, the parallel valve 348 may be actuated to further open, thereby allowing more fluid to flow from the condenser 329 to the flash tank 313, or the parallel valve 348 may be actuated to further close, thereby allowing less fluid to flow from the condenser 329 to the flash tank 313. As fluid flows through the parallel valve 348, the fluid may expand, causing a decrease in fluid pressure and / or temperature. In some embodiments, the controller 380 may actuate the parallel valve 348 based on sensor data received from one or more sensors of the fluid handling system 300I (e.g., open and / or close).

[0087] Figure 3K This is a schematic diagram of a refrigeration system 300K including a pressure exchanger (PX) according to certain embodiments. In some embodiments, the refrigeration system 300K is a heat transfer system and / or a fluid handling system. In some embodiments, features having reference numerals similar to those in other figures include characteristics, structures, and / or functionalities similar to those described in other figures. In some examples, the fluid handling system 300K is characterized by features similar to... Figure 3A The fluid handling system 300A-J has similar characteristics, structure and / or function to the fluid handling system 300A-J.

[0088] The fluid handling system 300K may include a pressure exchanger high-pressure valve 362 and a pressure exchanger on / off valve 364. The pressure exchanger high-pressure valve 362 controls the flow rate of a second fluid output from the high-pressure outlet of the pressure exchanger 310. In some embodiments, the second fluid expands as it flows through the pressure exchanger high-pressure valve 362. The second fluid output from the pressure exchanger high-pressure valve 362 may flow into a flash tank 313. As the second fluid flows through the pressure exchanger high-pressure valve 362, it may expand to the pressure of the flash tank 313 (e.g., the pressure within the flash tank 313). Expanding the second fluid through the pressure exchanger high-pressure valve 362 may improve the quality of the fluid in the flash tank 313 (e.g., increase the gas-liquid ratio). The pressure exchanger on / off valve 364 controls the flow of a first fluid (e.g., a high-pressure fluid) to the high-pressure inlet of the pressure exchanger 310. In some embodiments, the pressure exchanger high-pressure valve 362 and / or the pressure exchanger on / off valve 364 are controlled by a controller 380. The controller 380 can actuate (e.g., open and / or close) the pressure exchanger high-pressure valve 362 and / or the pressure exchanger on / off valve 364 based on sensor data received from one or more sensors of the fluid handling system 300J.

[0089] Figure 3L This is a schematic diagram of a refrigeration system 300L including a pressure exchanger (PX) according to certain embodiments. In some embodiments, the refrigeration system 300L is a heat transfer system and / or a fluid handling system. In some embodiments, features having reference numerals similar to those in other figures include characteristics, structures, and / or functionalities similar to those described in other figures. In some examples, the fluid handling system 300L is characterized by features similar to... Figure 3A The fluid handling system 300A-K has similar characteristics, structure, and / or function to the K-K fluid handling system.

[0090] The fluid handling system 300L may include a flash gas heat exchanger 361. In some embodiments, a portion of the gas flowing along a flash gas bypass flow path, exiting from the flash gas valve 320, is directed to the flash gas heat exchanger 361. Furthermore, in some embodiments, a second fluid exiting from the high-pressure outlet of the pressure exchanger 310 is directed to the flash gas heat exchanger 361. The flash gas heat exchanger 361 can provide a corresponding thermal energy (e.g., heat) from the second fluid to the flash gas portion. Therefore, the temperature of the second fluid from the high-pressure outlet of the pressure exchanger 310 can be reduced. The second fluid can then be exited from the flash gas heat exchanger 361 (e.g., at the reduced temperature) and directed to the flash tank 313. In some embodiments, as the second fluid passes through the high-pressure valve 362 of the pressure exchanger toward the flash tank 313, the second fluid expands, similar to a reference. Figure 3K The fluid handling system 300J is explained.

[0091] Figure 3M This is a schematic diagram of a refrigeration system 300M including a pressure exchanger (PX) according to certain embodiments. In some embodiments, the refrigeration system 300M is a heat transfer system and / or a fluid handling system. In some embodiments, features having reference numerals similar to those in other figures include characteristics, structures, and / or functionalities similar to those described in other figures. In some examples, the fluid handling system 300M is characterized by features similar to... Figure 3A The fluid handling system 300A-L has similar characteristics, structure and / or function to the fluid handling system 300A-L.

[0092] The fluid handling system 300M may include an auxiliary flash tank 352. The auxiliary flash tank 352 may be a receiver for receiving a second fluid output from the flash gas heat exchanger 361. In some embodiments, the auxiliary flash tank 352 is constructed of welded metal plates, similar to the construction of flash tank 313. In some embodiments, the auxiliary flash tank 352 is made of steel. The auxiliary flash tank 352 may form a chamber for receiving fluid (e.g., the second fluid). The interior of the auxiliary flash tank 352 (e.g., the chamber of auxiliary flash tank 354) may be maintained at a predetermined constant (e.g., substantially constant) pressure. The pressure of the auxiliary flash tank 352 may be higher than the pressure of flash tank 313. In some examples, the pressure of the auxiliary flash tank 352 may be maintained at least about 30 psi higher than the pressure of flash tank 313. In some embodiments, the auxiliary flash tank 352 includes at least one pressure sensor. Fluid flowing from the auxiliary flash tank 352 to the manifold valve 355 may be expanded by valve 353. In some embodiments, valve 353 regulates the pressure of the auxiliary flash tank 352. Valve 353 can be controllable (e.g., via controller 380).

[0093] In some embodiments, the auxiliary flash tank 352 may receive a second fluid output from the flash gas heat exchanger 361 (e.g., downstream of the high-pressure valve 362 of the pressure exchanger). The liquid and gas components of the second fluid may be separated within the auxiliary flash tank 352. The liquid may be collected at the bottom of the auxiliary flash tank 352 and directed to the expansion valve 316 via a manifold valve 355. In the manifold valve 355, the liquid output from the auxiliary flash tank 352 may be combined with the liquid output from the flash tank 313. In some embodiments, the manifold valve 355 merges the liquid flows from the auxiliary flash tank 352 and the flash tank 313 and directs the merged liquid flow to the expansion valve 316. In some embodiments, the manifold valve 355 is controlled (e.g., actuated) by a controller 380 (e.g., based on sensor data). The gas collected in the auxiliary flash tank 352 may be directed to the low-pressure inlet of the pressure exchanger 310. Because in some embodiments, the pressure maintained in the auxiliary flash tank 352 is higher than the pressure maintained in the flash tank 313, a low-pressure booster is not required to boost the pressure of the second fluid upstream of the low-pressure inlet of the pressure exchanger 310, thereby reducing the system's energy consumption and hardware costs.

[0094] Figures 3M.1 to 3M.6 This is a schematic diagram of a refrigeration system 300M.1-300M.6 including a pressure exchanger (PX) according to certain embodiments. In some embodiments, the refrigeration system 300M.1-300M.6 is a heat transfer system and / or a fluid handling system. In some embodiments, features having reference numerals similar to those in other figures include characteristics, structures, and / or functionalities similar to those described in other figures. In some examples, the fluid handling system 300M.1-300M.6 has features similar to... Figure 3A The fluid handling system 300A-M has similar characteristics, structure, and / or function to the M-M fluid handling system.

[0095] refer to Figure 3M.1 In some embodiments, the cooling system 300M.1 and Figure 3M The refrigeration system 300M shown is substantially similar (e.g., a system 300M without one or more of the auxiliary flash tank 352, valve 353, and / or connecting valve 355). In some embodiments, the refrigeration system 300M.1 does not have one or more of the auxiliary flash tank 352, valve 353, and / or connecting valve 355. In some embodiments, the pressure exchanger 310 receives fluid flow from the pressure exchanger high-pressure valve 362 instead of from the auxiliary flash tank 352.

[0096] In some embodiments, the refrigeration system 300M.1 (e.g., a fluid handling system) includes a pressure exchanger 310 configured to receive a first fluid at a first pressure (e.g., via a high-pressure input) and a second fluid at a second pressure (e.g., via a low-pressure input), and to exchange pressure between the first and second fluids. The refrigeration system 300M.1 also includes a condenser 329 (or a gas cooler) configured to provide a corresponding thermal energy of the first fluid to a corresponding environment (e.g., the condenser 329 provides the first fluid to the high-pressure input). The refrigeration system 300M.1 also includes a receiver (e.g., a flash tank 313) for receiving the first fluid output (e.g., a low-pressure output) from the pressure exchanger 310. The receiver (e.g., the flash tank 313) forms a chamber to separate the first fluid into a first gas and a first liquid. The refrigeration system 300M.1 also includes a heat exchanger 361 configured to receive the second fluid from a second outlet (e.g., a high-pressure output) of the pressure exchanger 310 and to provide the second fluid to a second inlet (e.g., a low-pressure input) of the pressure exchanger 310.

[0097] refer to Figure 3M.2 In some embodiments, the refrigeration system 300M.2 and Figure 3M.1 The refrigeration system 300M.1 shown is substantially similar (e.g., system 300M.1, but heat exchanger 361 discharges heat into ambient air, and is therefore referred to as a gas cooler in this embodiment (e.g., gas cooler 329B), plus one or more of heat exchangers 361A, 361B, evaporator 318B, compressor 322B, valve 384, etc.). Refrigeration system 300M.2 can use heat exchangers 361A and 361B to further subcool the high-pressure input fluid flowing to pressure exchanger 310, and can use a three-way valve (e.g., valve 384) to control the flow rate of refrigerant vapor from the outlet of the intermediate-temperature evaporator to heat exchanger 361B, and to bypass the remaining flow directly to the suction port of compressor 322A. This helps control overheating at the suction end of compressor 322A.

[0098] In some embodiments, the refrigeration system 300M.2 includes a pressure exchanger 310 that receives a high-pressure fluid flow input and a low-pressure fluid flow input, and provides a high-pressure fluid flow output and a low-pressure fluid flow output.

[0099] The high-pressure fluid output (e.g., high-pressure output flow, flow 1) can be cooled by a gas cooler 329B (e.g., gas cooler 2), and then the pressure can be reduced by a valve 316 (e.g., high-pressure valve 2). The medium-pressure liquid-gas mixture then absorbs heat in a heat exchanger 361 (e.g., heat exchanger 1) and continues to flow to the low-pressure input port of the pressure exchanger 310 (e.g., becoming a low-pressure fluid input).

[0100] The fluid flowing from gas cooler 329A (e.g., gas cooler outlet flow, flow 2) passes through heat exchanger 361 (e.g., heat exchanger 1) and is cooled by the heat absorbed by the fluid flow from gas cooler 329B (e.g., flow 2). This cooled fluid flow (e.g., cooling flow 2) then passes through heat exchanger 361B (e.g., heat exchanger 2) and can be further cooled by the fluid flow from evaporator 318 (e.g., intermediate temperature evaporator) and flash gas valve 320 (e.g., FGBP valve) (e.g., combined flow from intermediate temperature evaporator outlet plus FGBP valve outlet, flow 3) depending on valve 384 (e.g., three-way valve, bypass valve opening). This also provides a method for superheating the fluid flow (e.g., flow 3) from evaporator 318 and flash gas valve 320 before entering compressor 322 (e.g., MT compressor).

[0101] Valve 382 (e.g., high-pressure valve 1) can operate in parallel with pressure exchanger 310 and can obtain part, all, or no fluid flow from gas cooler 329A according to controller 380 (e.g., control algorithm).

[0102] The low-pressure output fluid stream with a higher liquid content then enters flash tank 313 (e.g., receiver) and is separated into liquid and gas. The remaining operations can be similar. Figure 3M The operations described in the document.

[0103] Valve 386 can be a three-way valve that controls the flow from heat exchanger 361B and compressor 322B to compressor 322A.

[0104] Evaporator 318A can be a medium-temperature (MT) evaporator (e.g., a refrigerator), and evaporator 318B can be a low-temperature (LT) evaporator (e.g., a freezer).

[0105] refer to Figure 3M.3 In some embodiments, the cooling system 300M.3 and Figure 3M.2 The refrigeration system 300M2 shown is substantially similar (e.g., system 300M.2 that regulates fluid flow in certain parts of the system), but heat exchanger 361B (heat exchanger 2) is used to cool the fluid flow (e.g., flow 1) from gas cooler 329A before the fluid flow enters pressure exchanger 310 via a low-pressure input. This can increase the density of the low-pressure input fluid flow, thereby increasing the mass boost ratio of pressure exchanger 310. Refrigeration system 300M.3 can use heat exchanger 361B to cool the fluid flow flowing to the low-pressure input of pressure exchanger 310.

[0106] refer to Figure 3M.4 In some embodiments, the cooling system 300M.4 and Figure 3M.3The refrigeration system 300M.3 shown is substantially similar (e.g., a system 300M.3 that regulates fluid flow in certain parts of the system). The refrigeration system 300M.4 may include a valve 388 (e.g., a low-pressure valve (LPV)) that increases the pressure of the low-pressure input fluid flow to the pressure exchanger 310 and can increase the density of the low-pressure input flowing to the pressure exchanger 310. This increases the mass boost ratio of the pressure exchanger and can increase the subcooling obtained in the heat exchanger 361A (e.g., heat exchanger 1). The refrigeration system 300M.4 can use valve 388 to increase the pressure of the fluid flow to the low-pressure input of the pressure exchanger 310 and can use heat exchanger 361B (e.g., heat exchanger 2) to cool the fluid flow from the low-pressure output of the pressure exchanger 310.

[0107] Heat exchanger 361B (e.g., heat exchanger 2) can be used to reduce the quality of the low-pressure output fluid flow from pressure exchanger 310 in order to increase the liquid content of the fluid flow before it enters flash tank 313 (e.g., receiver).

[0108] refer to Figure 3M.5 In some embodiments, the refrigeration system 300M.5 and Figure 3M.2 The refrigeration system 300M.2 shown is substantially similar (e.g., a system 300M.2 that regulates fluid flow in certain parts of the system), but flow 3 exits from evaporator 318B (e.g., a low-temperature evaporator) and is used in heat exchanger 361B (e.g., heat exchanger 2) for further subcooling flow 1. In some embodiments, refrigeration system 300M.5 has heat exchanger 361B that uses the outlet of evaporator 318B (e.g., a low-temperature evaporator outlet) instead of the outlet of evaporator 318A (e.g., a medium-temperature evaporator outlet).

[0109] The fluid flow at the outlet of evaporator 318B (e.g., a low-temperature evaporator outlet) may be colder (e.g., much colder) than the fluid flow at the outlet of evaporator 318A (e.g., a medium-temperature evaporator outlet), and more efficient cooling can be achieved in heat exchanger 361B (e.g., heat exchanger 2), which can reduce the size of heat exchanger 361A. This can be beneficial when the load on evaporator 318B is a threshold portion of the total system load.

[0110] The three-way valve can be used to control the flow fraction of subcooled flow 1 in heat exchanger 361B. The remainder can bypass heat exchanger 361B. This allows for control of the overheating of the intermediate-temperature suction section while still providing additional subcooling to flow 1 before it enters the high-pressure input of pressure exchanger 310. In some embodiments, this additional subcooling increases the liquid content after expansion through pressure exchanger 310.

[0111] refer to Figure 3M.6 In some embodiments, the cooling system 300M.6 and Figure 3M.5 The refrigeration system 300M.5 shown is substantially similar (e.g., a system 300M.5 that regulates fluid flow in certain parts of the system). Refrigeration system 300M.6 may have heat exchangers 361A-361C to help increase the liquid mass fraction in flash tank 313 (e.g., receiver), and may have valve 392 (e.g., a low-pressure valve that reduces the pressure of the low-pressure output from pressure exchanger 310 to the intermediate-temperature suction section (e.g., compressor 322A, intermediate-temperature compressor).

[0112] Three-way valve 399 can split the flow between the high-pressure input (flow 1) of the pressure exchanger and valve 396 (e.g., high-pressure valve (HPV) 1 (flow 2)).

[0113] The fluid flow output at low pressure can cool flow 2 in heat exchanger 361A (e.g., heat exchanger 1), and the outlet of evaporator 318A (e.g., medium-temperature evaporator outlet) (flow 3) increases the liquid content of flow 2 passing through heat exchanger 361B (e.g., heat exchanger 2) before flow 2 enters flash tank 313 (e.g., receiver).

[0114] The fluid flow via the low-pressure output can increase its gas content in the heat exchanger 361A (e.g., heat exchanger 1) and can be discharged in the form of superheated steam. The fluid flow can then be depressurized by valve 392 (e.g., low-pressure valve) and can be combined with the suction flow of compressor 322A (e.g., medium-temperature compressor suction flow).

[0115] The outlet flow of gas cooler 329B (e.g., gas cooler #2 outlet flow) can be depressurized (flow 4) by expansion valve 316 (e.g., high pressure valve 2) and can exchange heat with the fluid flow leaving evaporator 318B (e.g., low temperature evaporator outlet, flow 5), which can increase its liquid content before flow 4 enters flash tank 313 (e.g., receiver).

[0116] Three-way valves (e.g., bypass valves) on flows 3 and 5 can help bypass some flows through heat exchangers 361B (e.g., heat exchanger 2) and 361C (e.g., heat exchanger 3), respectively. This can help control overheating in the intermediate-temperature suction section (e.g., compressor 322A, intermediate-temperature compressor) and the cryogenic suction section (e.g., compressor 322B, cryogenic compressor), respectively.

[0117] Figure 3NThis is a schematic diagram of a refrigeration system 300N including a pressure exchanger (PX) according to certain embodiments. In some embodiments, the refrigeration system 300N is a heat transfer system and / or a fluid handling system. In some embodiments, features having reference numerals similar to those in other figures include characteristics, structures, and / or functionalities similar to those described in other figures. In some examples, the fluid handling system 300N is characterized by features similar to... Figure 3A The fluid handling system 300A-M has similar characteristics, structure, and / or function to the M-M fluid handling system.

[0118] The fluid handling system 300N may include a secondary compressor 356, an auxiliary condenser 365, an auxiliary parallel valve 368, and / or a low-pressure selector valve 366. In some embodiments, the secondary compressor 356 receives a portion of the fluid output from the secondary evaporator 319 (e.g., a portion of the fluid flowing through the secondary evaporator 319 from the flash tank 313). The secondary evaporator 319 may be a low-temperature (LT) evaporator, and the evaporator 318 may be a medium-temperature (MT) evaporator. In some embodiments, the secondary compressor 356 is a low-temperature compressor, and the compressor 322 is a medium-temperature compressor. The secondary compressor 356 may increase the pressure of the fluid output from the secondary evaporator 319 to the pressure of the fluid output from the evaporator 318. Those skilled in the art will recognize that any of the systems 300A to 300M can be modified to include a secondary evaporator 319 and a secondary compressor 356. The auxiliary evaporator 319 can be maintained at a lower pressure than the evaporator 318, and the auxiliary compressor 356 can increase the output pressure of the auxiliary evaporator 319 to substantially the same pressure as the fluid output from the evaporator 318. The fluid output from the evaporator 318 can be combined with the output from the auxiliary compressor 356. In some embodiments, the auxiliary compressor 356 is controlled by a controller 380. In some examples, the controller 380 can cause the auxiliary compressor 356 to increase the fluid pressure based on received sensor data (e.g., pressure sensor data, etc.). In some embodiments, the auxiliary compressor 356 is driven by a motor. The motor can be controlled by the controller 380.

[0119] In some embodiments, the auxiliary condenser 365 receives a second fluid from the high-pressure outlet of the pressure exchanger 310. The auxiliary condenser 365 may be a condenser and / or a gas cooler as described herein. In some embodiments, the auxiliary condenser 365 is a heat exchanger that exchanges heat energy (e.g., heat) between the second fluid and the ambient medium. In some embodiments, the auxiliary condenser 365 exchanges heat energy between the second fluid and an environment that exchanges heat energy with the same environment as the condenser 329. In other embodiments, the auxiliary condenser 365 exchanges heat energy between the second fluid and an environment that exchanges heat energy with the same environment as the condenser 329. In some embodiments, the auxiliary condenser 365 operates at a temperature different from (e.g., lower than) that of the condenser 329. Operating at a lower pressure than the condenser 329 eliminates the need for a booster (e.g., a high-pressure booster 324) to compensate for this pressure difference, since the second fluid output from the pressure exchanger 310 (e.g., at high pressure) may be at a pressure lower than that of the condenser 329.

[0120] In some embodiments, a second fluid flows from an auxiliary condenser 365 to an auxiliary parallel valve 368. In some embodiments, the auxiliary parallel valve 368 is substantially similar to the parallel valve 348. In some examples, the auxiliary parallel valve 368 may be a flow control valve to control the flow of the second fluid from the auxiliary condenser 365 toward the flash tank 313. In some embodiments, the auxiliary parallel valve 368 is an expansion valve. The second fluid may expand as it flows through the auxiliary parallel valve 368. In some embodiments, the auxiliary parallel valve 368 may be controlled (e.g., by a controller 380). In some examples, the controller 380 may actuate (e.g., open and / or close) the auxiliary parallel valve 368 based on sensor data received from one or more sensors of the fluid handling system 300M. In some embodiments, the second fluid output of the auxiliary parallel valve 368 may be combined with the fluid output of the parallel valve 348.

[0121] In some embodiments, the fluid handling system 300N may include a low-pressure selector valve 366. The low-pressure selector valve 366 may receive gas output from flash tank 313 via a first port and / or fluid output from flash gas valve 320, evaporator 318, and / or (e.g., upstream of compressor 322) auxiliary compressor 356 via a second port. The low-pressure selector valve 366 may direct gas and / or fluid flow to low-pressure booster 314 via a third port. In some embodiments, the low-pressure selector valve 366 is controllable. In some examples, a user (e.g., an engineer, operator, technician, etc.) may actuate the low-pressure selector valve 366 (e.g., open or close the first, second, and / or third ports), and / or a controller 380 may actuate the low-pressure selector valve 366. In some embodiments, the controller 380 actuates the low-pressure selector valve 366 based on received sensor data. In some embodiments, the low-pressure selector valve 366 receives airflow from the flash tank 313 via a first port and directs the airflow to the low-pressure booster 314 via a third port when the second port is closed. In some embodiments, the low-pressure selector valve 366 receives airflow from the flash tank 322 via a second port and directs the airflow to the low-pressure booster 314 via a third port when the first port is closed.

[0122] Figure 3O This is a schematic diagram of a refrigeration system 300O including a pressure exchanger (PX) according to certain embodiments. In some embodiments, the refrigeration system 300O is a heat transfer system and / or a fluid handling system. In some embodiments, features having reference numerals similar to those in other figures include characteristics, structures, and / or functionalities similar to those described in other figures. In some examples, the fluid handling system 300O is characterized by features similar to... Figure 3A The fluid handling system 300A-N has similar characteristics, structure and / or function to the fluid handling system 300A-N.

[0123] The fluid handling system 300O may include multiple heat exchangers to provide corresponding thermal energy from a first fluid (e.g., upstream of the high-pressure inlet of pressure exchanger 310) and the fluid exiting flash tank 313. In some embodiments, the first fluid flows from condenser 329 to one of heat exchangers 370, 372, or 374, and then to the high-pressure inlet of pressure exchanger 310. In some embodiments, heat exchanger (HX) 370 provides corresponding thermal energy from the fluid exiting condenser 329 to the fluid exiting evaporator 318. Fluid may flow from the outlet of evaporator 318 to heat exchanger 370 and then to compressor 322. In some embodiments, heat exchanger 372 provides corresponding thermal energy from the fluid exiting condenser 329 to the fluid exiting flash gas valve 320. In some embodiments, heat exchanger 372 forms a portion of the flash gas flow path between flash tank 313 and compressor 322. Fluid can flow from flash gas valve 320 to heat exchanger 372, and then to compressor 322. In some embodiments, heat exchanger 374 provides corresponding heat energy from fluid output from condenser 329 to fluid output from auxiliary evaporator 319. Fluid can flow from auxiliary evaporator 319 to heat exchanger 374, and then to auxiliary compressor 356. Fluid can then flow from auxiliary compressor 356 to compressor 322. Multiple heat exchangers can cool the initial fluid flow into the high-pressure inlet of pressure exchanger 310, while also heating the fluid output from evaporator 318, auxiliary evaporator 319, and / or flash gas valve 320. Multiple heat exchangers can superheat the fluid output. This heating of the fluid can increase the fluid pressure while providing sufficient superheat for stable and reliable operation of compressor 322 and auxiliary compressor 356. An increase in pressure (for example, the fluid output from evaporator 318 and the fluid output from auxiliary evaporator 319) can reduce the operation of compressor 322 and auxiliary compressor 356, thereby reducing the energy consumed by compressor 322 and auxiliary compressor 356 and improving system efficiency.

[0124] Figure 3P This is a schematic diagram of a refrigeration system 300P including a pressure exchanger (PX) according to certain embodiments. In some embodiments, the refrigeration system 300P is a heat transfer system and / or a fluid handling system. In some embodiments, features having reference numerals similar to those in other figures include characteristics, structures, and / or functionalities similar to those described in other figures. In some examples, the fluid handling system 300P is characterized by features similar to... Figure 3A The fluid handling system 300A-O has similar characteristics, structure, and / or function to the fluid handling system 300A-O.

[0125] Fluid handling system 300P may include heat exchanger 370 and / or heat exchanger 374. In some embodiments, fluid handling system 300P is substantially similar to fluid handling system 300O, but does not include heat exchanger 372. In some embodiments, fluid exiting from flash gas valve 320 is combined with fluid exiting from evaporator 318 before being supplied as a combined fluid to heat exchanger 370.

[0126] Figure 4A This is a schematic diagram of a refrigeration system 400A including a pressure exchanger (PX) and one or more ejectors according to certain embodiments. In some embodiments, the refrigeration system 400A is a heat transfer system and / or a fluid handling system. In some embodiments, features having reference numerals similar to those in other figures include characteristics, structures, and / or functionalities similar to those described in other figures. In some examples, the fluid handling system 400A is characterized by features similar to... Figure 3A The fluid handling system 300A-P has similar characteristics, structure, and / or function to the P-P fluid handling system.

[0127] Fluid handling system 400A may include one or more ejectors. An ejector may be a device configured to increase the pressure of a low-pressure flow by using a high-pressure flow. An ejector may use a converging nozzle to increase fluid velocity, converting high static pressure into velocity pressure. Including ejectors in fluid handling system 400A allows for the use of high-pressure fluid to increase the pressure of low-pressure fluid without the need for pumps or compressors, thereby reducing energy consumption and improving system efficiency.

[0128] In some embodiments, the fluid handling system 400A includes a low-pressure ejector 476 and / or a high-pressure ejector 478. The low-pressure ejector 476 may increase the pressure of a second fluid supplied to the low-pressure inlet of the pressure exchanger 310. In some embodiments, the low-pressure ejector 476 receives a gas flow output from the flash tank 313 via a gas outlet of the flash tank. The gas flow received by the low-pressure ejector 476 may be diverted from a flash gas bypass flow path. The low-pressure ejector 476 may receive a portion of the fluid output from the compressor 322 via a low-pressure ejector flow valve 480 to increase (e.g., boost) the pressure of the second fluid. In some examples, the low-pressure ejector 476 may increase the pressure of the second fluid by approximately 30 to 50 psi. In some embodiments, the low-pressure ejector flow valve 480 controls the flow rate of the high-pressure fluid to the low-pressure ejector 476. The high-pressure fluid may be combined with a low-pressure fluid (e.g., a low-pressure second fluid) in the low-pressure ejector 476 to increase the pressure of the low-pressure fluid. The low-pressure ejector flow valve 480 may be controlled by a controller 380. In some embodiments, the controller 380 actuates the low-pressure injector flow valve 480 based on sensor data received by the controller 380. In some embodiments, the low-pressure injector 476 performs a function substantially similar to that of the low-pressure booster 314.

[0129] High-pressure injector 478 can increase the pressure of a second fluid output from the high-pressure outlet of pressure exchanger 310. High-pressure injector 478 can receive a portion of the fluid output from compressor 322 via high-pressure injector flow valve 482 to increase (e.g., boost) the pressure of the second fluid. In some examples, high-pressure injector 478 can increase the pressure of the second fluid by approximately 30 to 50 psi. High-pressure injector 478 can increase the pressure of the second fluid to the pressure of condenser 329 (e.g., the internal pressure of condenser 329, the pressure at the inlet of condenser 329). In some embodiments, high-pressure injector flow valve 482 controls the flow of high-pressure fluid to high-pressure injector 478. High-pressure fluid output from high-pressure injector flow valve 482 can be combined with the second fluid in high-pressure injector 478 to increase the pressure of the second fluid. High-pressure injector flow valve 482 can be controlled by controller 380. In some embodiments, controller 380 actuates high-pressure injector flow valve 482 based on sensor data received by controller 380. In some embodiments, high-pressure injector 478 performs a function substantially similar to that of high-pressure booster 324.

[0130] Figure 4BThis is a schematic diagram of a refrigeration system 400B including a pressure exchanger (PX) and one or more ejectors according to certain embodiments. In some embodiments, the refrigeration system 400B is a heat transfer system and / or a fluid handling system. In some embodiments, features having reference numerals similar to those in other figures include characteristics, structures, and / or functionalities similar to those described in other figures. In some examples, the fluid handling system 400B is characterized by features similar to... Figure 3A The fluid handling system 300A-P has similar characteristics, structure, and / or function to the P-P fluid handling system.

[0131] The fluid handling system 400B may include a parallel compressor 350 and / or a parallel ejector 477. In some embodiments, the parallel ejector 477 increases the pressure of a portion of the fluid exiting from the evaporator 318 (e.g., upstream of the inlet of the compressor 322). The parallel ejector 477 may increase the pressure of a portion of the fluid exiting from the condenser 329 to the pressure of the flash tank 313. The parallel compressor 350 may receive the fluid exiting from the parallel ejector 477. Furthermore, in some embodiments, the parallel compressor 350 may receive gas exiting from the flash tank 313, as described herein. In some embodiments, the gas exiting from the flash tank 313 is combined with the fluid exiting from the parallel ejector 477. After the fluid passes through the low-pressure booster 314, the pressure exchanger 310 increases the pressure of a portion of this combined flow from the pressure of the flash tank 313 (e.g., flash tank pressure) to the pressure of the condenser 329 (e.g., condenser pressure, gas cooler pressure). Fluid flow exceeding the capacity of pressure exchanger 310 from flash tank 313 can be received by parallel compressor 350. Parallel compressor 350 can increase the pressure of the flow to the pressure of condenser 329. The combination of parallel ejector 477, pressure exchanger 310, and parallel compressor 350 to increase fluid pressure can reduce the workload performed by compressor 322, thereby reducing the energy consumed by compressor 322 and improving system efficiency.

[0132] In some embodiments, the parallel ejector receives high-pressure fluid from the condenser 329 via a parallel ejector flow valve 484. This high-pressure fluid may be combined in the parallel ejector 477 with a portion of the fluid output from the evaporator 318 (e.g., at a relatively low pressure) to increase the pressure of the fluid output from the evaporator 318. In some embodiments, the parallel ejector 477 increases the pressure of the fluid portion from the evaporator 318 by approximately 200 psi. In some embodiments, the parallel ejector flow valve 484 is a valve that controls the flow of high-pressure fluid to the parallel ejector 477. In some embodiments, the parallel ejector flow valve 484 is controlled by a controller 380. In some examples, the controller 380 may actuate the parallel ejector flow valve 484 based on sensor data received by the controller 380.

[0133] Figure 5A This is a schematic diagram of a refrigeration system 500A including a pressure exchanger (PX) and a secondary evaporator according to certain embodiments. In some embodiments, the refrigeration system 500A is a heat transfer system and / or a fluid handling system. In some embodiments, features having reference numerals similar to those in other figures include characteristics, structures, and / or functionalities similar to those described in other figures. In some examples, the fluid handling system 500A is characterized by features similar to... Figure 3A The fluid handling system 300A-P has similar characteristics, structure, and / or function to the P-P fluid handling system.

[0134] The fluid handling system 500A may include a secondary evaporator 319, a secondary expansion valve 358, and / or a secondary compressor 356. (See here for more information.) Figure 3M Explain the auxiliary evaporator 319, auxiliary expansion valve 358, and / or auxiliary compressor 356. In some embodiments, fluid output from auxiliary compressor 356 is supplied to the low-pressure inlet of pressure exchanger 310. Auxiliary compressor 356 can reduce the workload performed by compressor 322 and reduce the energy consumed by compressor 322, thereby improving system efficiency.

[0135] Figure 5B This is a schematic diagram of a refrigeration system 500B including a pressure exchanger (PX) and a secondary evaporator according to certain embodiments. In some embodiments, the refrigeration system 500B is a heat transfer system and / or a fluid handling system. In some embodiments, features having reference numerals similar to those in other figures include characteristics, structures, and / or functionalities similar to those described in other figures. In some examples, the fluid handling system 500B is characterized by features similar to... Figure 3A The fluid handling system 300A-P has similar characteristics, structure, and / or function to the P-P fluid handling system.

[0136] The fluid handling system 500B may include a medium-temperature to low-temperature valve 558 (e.g., an MT to LT valve 558). The medium-temperature to low-temperature valve 558 may control the flow rate of fluid output from evaporator 318 and / or from flash gas valve 320. The output of the medium-temperature to low-temperature valve 558 may be provided to the auxiliary compressor 356. In some embodiments, the output of the medium-temperature to low-temperature valve 558 may be combined with the output of the auxiliary evaporator 319. In some examples, the medium-temperature to low-temperature valve 558 may regulate the flow rate of a sub-portion of a portion of the output (e.g., fluid output) from evaporator 318 to be combined with the output from the auxiliary evaporator 319. Fluid from the medium-temperature to low-temperature valve 558 may be combined with fluid from the auxiliary evaporator 319 upstream of the auxiliary compressor 356. As fluid flows through the medium-temperature to low-temperature valve 558, the pressure of the fluid may decrease as the fluid expands. In some embodiments, in addition to the fluid flow from the secondary evaporator 319, the flow through the intermediate-to-low temperature valve 558 also supplies fluid flow to the secondary compressor 356, thereby not restricting the flow through the pressure exchanger 310 and utilizing the full flow capacity and pressurization capacity of the pressure exchanger 310. In some embodiments, the intermediate-to-low temperature valve 558 may be controlled (e.g., actuated) by the controller 380 based on sensor data.

[0137] Figure 6A This illustrates a control fluid handling system (e.g., according to certain embodiments) Figure 3A A flowchart of method 600A of one or more fluid handling systems 300A-P (P). In some embodiments, method 600A is executed by processing logic, which includes hardware (e.g., circuitry, dedicated logic, programmable logic, microcode, processing device, etc.), software (such as instructions that run on a processing device, general-purpose computer system, or special-purpose machine), firmware, microcode, or a combination thereof. In some embodiments, method 600A is at least partially executed by a controller (e.g., Figure 1A To the controller 180 in Figure 1D, Figures 3A to 3P The controller 380) executes the instructions. In some embodiments, the non-transient storage medium stores the instructions when the processing device (e.g., Figure 1A To the controller 180 in Figure 1D, Figures 3A to 3P When the controller 380 is executed, these instructions cause the processing device to execute method 600A.

[0138] For the sake of simplicity, method 600A is depicted and described as a series of operations. However, the operations according to this disclosure may occur in various orders and / or simultaneously with other operations not presented and described herein. Furthermore, in some embodiments, not all illustrated operations are performed to implement method 600A according to the disclosed subject matter. Moreover, those skilled in the art will understand that method 600A may alternatively be represented by a state diagram or events as a series of interrelated states.

[0139] At block 602, processing logic enables the supply of heat energy from a first fluid to a corresponding environment via a condenser. In some examples, the processing logic (e.g., the processing logic of controller 380) enables one of systems 300A-300P to operate to remove heat from the fluid via condenser 329 and / or via auxiliary condenser 365. The processing logic can actuate one or more valves to operate one or more pumps or compressors, and / or to operate a pressure exchanger. Specifically, the first fluid can be made to flow through the condenser. The processing logic enables a compressor (e.g., compressor 322) to direct fluid to the condenser (e.g., condenser 329) based on sensor data (e.g., temperature sensor data, pressure sensor data, flow rate sensor data, etc.). The first fluid may be at a first temperature when entering the condenser and at a second (e.g., lower) temperature when leaving the condenser. The condenser can facilitate the transfer of heat from the first fluid to the corresponding environment (e.g., the environment exposed outside the condenser) to lower the temperature of the first fluid.

[0140] At block 604, processing logic enables the exchange of pressure between a first fluid and a second fluid via a pressure exchanger (e.g., PX 310). In some examples, (e.g., of controller 380) the processing logic enables the pressure exchanger to operate to exchange pressure between the first and second fluids. Specifically, the processing logic enables one or more valves to open, and one or more pumps and / or compressors to supply the first and second fluids to the inlet of the pressure exchanger. The processing logic enables the compressor and / or booster (e.g., low-pressure booster 314) to allow the first and second fluids (respectively) to flow to the pressure exchanger based on sensor data (e.g., temperature sensor data, pressure sensor data, flow sensor data, etc.). The first fluid may be supplied to the first inlet of the pressure exchanger at a first pressure, and the second fluid may be supplied to the second inlet of the pressure exchanger at a second pressure. The first pressure may be higher than the second pressure. In some embodiments (e.g., in embodiments where the pressure exchanger is a rotary pressure exchanger), the processing logic enables a motor to rotate the rotor of the pressure exchanger. A first fluid and a second fluid are supplied to the inlet of a pressure exchanger via a compressor and / or a booster, and / or the rotor of the pressure exchanger is rotated by a motor, thereby allowing pressure exchange between the first fluid and the second fluid. The first fluid may exit the pressure exchanger via a first outlet at a third pressure, while the second fluid may exit the pressure exchanger via a second outlet at a fourth pressure. The third pressure may be lower than the fourth pressure.

[0141] At block 606, processing logic can cause a first fluid to separate into a first gas and a first liquid. This separation of the first fluid into its liquid and gaseous components can occur in a receiver (e.g., flash tank 313) configured to receive the first fluid output from a pressure exchanger. In some embodiments, the processing logic (e.g., of controller 380) can adjust the inflow, outflow, and / or internal pressure of the receiver based on sensor data (e.g., temperature sensor data, pressure sensor data, flow rate sensor data, etc.) to facilitate the separation of the first fluid into the first gas and the first liquid. The processing logic can cause the first fluid to flow from the pressure exchanger to the receiver. In some embodiments, the first fluid exits the pressure exchanger via a first outlet and flows into a chamber formed by the receiver. In the chamber, liquid (e.g., the first liquid) collects at the bottom of the chamber, and gas (e.g., the first gas) collects towards the top of the chamber. Liquid can flow out of the chamber (e.g., toward an expansion valve and / or an evaporator). Gas can flow out of the chamber (e.g., via a gas outlet of the receiver) and can flow toward and / or along a flash gas bypass flow path (e.g., to bypass the evaporator).

[0142] At block 608, processing logic may increase the pressure of a portion of the first gas via a booster (e.g., low-pressure booster 314) to form a second fluid and supply the second fluid to the pressure exchanger. In some embodiments, processing logic (e.g., of controller 380) may cause a booster (e.g., a pump or compressor) to increase the pressure of a gas (e.g., a portion of the first gas). The gas may be diverted from a flash gas bypass flow path. In some embodiments, processing logic may cause the booster to be driven by a motor (e.g., the processing logic turns on the motor) based on sensor data (e.g., temperature sensor data, pressure sensor data, flow rate sensor data, etc.). The booster may cause a small increase in fluid pressure (e.g., "boost" pressure). The booster may increase the fluid pressure to a second pressure. The booster may be a positive displacement booster or a centrifugal booster (e.g., a positive displacement pump or compressor, or a centrifugal pump or compressor). In some embodiments, the booster supplies the second fluid to a second inlet of the pressure exchanger at the second pressure.

[0143] Figure 6B This illustrates a control fluid handling system (e.g., according to certain embodiments) Figure 4A and Figure 4BA flowchart of method 600B of one or more fluid handling systems 400A, 400B is provided. In some embodiments, method 600B is executed by processing logic, which includes hardware (e.g., circuitry, dedicated logic, programmable logic, microcode, processing device, etc.), software (such as instructions that run on a processing device, a general-purpose computer system, or a special-purpose machine), firmware, microcode, or a combination thereof. In some embodiments, method 600B is at least partially executed by a controller (e.g., Figure 1A To the controller 180 in Figure 1D, Figure 4A and Figure 4B The controller 380) executes the instructions. In some embodiments, the non-transient storage medium stores the instructions when the processing device (e.g., Figure 1A To the controller 180 in Figure 1D, Figure 4A and Figure 4B When the controller 380 executes, these instructions cause the processing device to execute method 600B. In some examples, method 600B has the same characteristics as... Figure 6A Methods similar to those in the 600A, etc.

[0144] For the sake of simplicity, method 600B is depicted and described as a series of operations. However, the operations according to this disclosure may occur in various orders and / or simultaneously with other operations not presented and described herein. Furthermore, in some embodiments, not all illustrated operations are performed to implement method 600B according to the disclosed subject matter. Moreover, those skilled in the art will understand that method 600B may alternatively be represented by a state diagram or events as a series of interrelated states.

[0145] At block 612, the processing logic enables the supply of corresponding heat energy from the first fluid to the corresponding environment via the condenser. Block 612 can be similar to... Figure 6A Box 602.

[0146] At block 614, the processing logic enables the exchange of pressure between a first fluid and a second fluid via a pressure exchanger (e.g., PX 310). Block 614 can be similar to... Figure 6A The box number is 604.

[0147] In some embodiments, at block 616, the processing logic can separate the first fluid into a first gas and a first liquid. Block 616 can be similar to... Figure 6A Box 606.

[0148] At block 618, processing logic may increase the pressure of a portion of the first gas via an ejector (e.g., low-pressure ejector 476) to form a second fluid and supply the second fluid to a pressure exchanger. In some embodiments, processing logic (e.g., of controller 380) may cause the ejector to increase the pressure of the gas (e.g., a portion of the first gas) based on sensor data (e.g., temperature sensor data, pressure sensor data, flow rate sensor data, etc.). The gas (e.g., a portion of the first gas) may be diverted from a flash gas bypass flow path. In some embodiments, processing logic actuates an ejector flow valve (e.g., low-pressure ejector flow valve 480) to an open position to provide a high-pressure fluid supply to the ejector, thereby increasing the gas pressure to a second pressure. The high-pressure fluid may be combined with the gas to form a second fluid at the second pressure. In some embodiments, the ejector supplies the second fluid at the second pressure to a second inlet of the pressure exchanger.

[0149] Figure 6C This illustrates a control fluid handling system (e.g., according to certain embodiments) Figure 5A and Figure 5B A flowchart of method 600C of one or more fluid handling systems 500A, 500B. In some embodiments, method 600C is executed by processing logic, which includes hardware (e.g., circuitry, dedicated logic, programmable logic, microcode, processing device, etc.), software (such as instructions that run on a processing device, a general-purpose computer system, or a special-purpose machine), firmware, microcode, or a combination thereof. In some embodiments, method 600C is at least partially executed by a controller (e.g., Figure 1A To the controller 180 in Figure 1D, Figure 5A and Figure 5B The controller 380) executes the instructions. In some embodiments, the non-transient storage medium stores the instructions when the processing device (e.g., Figure 1A To the controller 180 in Figure 1D, Figure 5A and Figure 5B When the controller 380) executes, these instructions cause the processing device to execute method 600C. In some examples, method 600C has the same characteristics as... Figure 6A Methods similar to those in the 600A, etc.

[0150] For the sake of simplicity, method 600C is depicted and described as a series of operations. However, the operations according to this disclosure may occur in various orders and / or simultaneously with other operations not presented and described herein. Furthermore, in some embodiments, not all illustrated operations are performed to implement method 600C according to the disclosed subject matter. Moreover, those skilled in the art will understand that method 600C may alternatively be represented by a state diagram or events as a series of interrelated states.

[0151] At block 622, the processing logic enables the supply of corresponding heat energy from the first fluid to the corresponding environment via the condenser. Block 622 can be similar to... Figure 6A Box 602.

[0152] At block 604, the processing logic enables the exchange of pressure between a first fluid and a second fluid via a pressure exchanger (e.g., PX 310). Block 624 can be similar to... Figure 6A The box number is 604.

[0153] In block 626, processing logic can cause corresponding thermal energy to be supplied from a second corresponding environment via a first evaporator to a first portion of the first fluid output from the pressure exchanger. In some examples, (e.g., of controller 380) processing logic can cause one of systems 500A-500B to operate to absorb heat from the second environment via evaporator 318. Processing logic can actuate one or more valves to operate one or more pumps or compressors, and / or to operate the pressure exchanger. Specifically, a first portion of the first fluid can be caused to flow through the first evaporator. Processing logic can cause one or more compressors (e.g., compressor 322, auxiliary compressor 356) and / or one or more boosters (e.g., high-pressure booster 324) to flow refrigerant through the pressure exchanger based on sensor data (e.g., temperature sensor data, pressure sensor data, flow rate sensor data, etc.) to allow refrigerant (e.g., via an expansion valve, such as expansion valve 316) to flow through the first evaporator. The first portion of the first fluid may be at a third temperature when entering the first evaporator and at a fourth (e.g., higher) temperature when leaving the first evaporator. The first evaporator can facilitate heat transfer from the second corresponding environment to the first part of the first fluid.

[0154] In block 628, the processing logic can cause the corresponding thermal energy to be supplied from a third corresponding environment via a second evaporator to a second portion of the first fluid output from the pressure exchanger. In some examples, (e.g., of controller 380) the processing logic can cause one of systems 500A-500B to operate to absorb heat from the third environment via a secondary evaporator 319. The processing logic can actuate one or more valves, cause one or more pumps or compressors to operate, and / or cause the pressure exchanger to operate. Specifically, the second portion of the first fluid can be caused to flow through a second evaporator (e.g., a secondary evaporator, an evaporator connected in parallel with the first evaporator). The processing logic can, based on sensor data (e.g., temperature sensor data, pressure sensor data, flow rate sensor data, etc.), cause one or more compressors (e.g., compressor 322, secondary compressor 356) and / or one or more boosters (e.g., high-pressure booster 324) to flow refrigerant through the pressure exchanger to cause refrigerant (e.g., via an expansion valve, such as secondary expansion valve 358) to flow through the second evaporator. A second portion of the first fluid may be at a fifth temperature upon entering the second evaporator and at a sixth (e.g., higher) temperature upon exiting the second evaporator. The second evaporator may facilitate a third heat transfer corresponding to the second portion of the first fluid. In some embodiments, the temperature of the third environment is lower than the temperature of the second environment. In some embodiments, the second and third environments have the same (e.g., substantially the same) temperature. In some embodiments, the second and third environments are the same environment.

[0155] In block 630, processing logic can increase the pressure of a first portion of the fluid output from the first evaporator via a first compressor. The processing logic can also cause the first portion to be supplied to the condenser. In some examples (e.g., of controller 380), the processing logic can cause the first compressor (e.g., compressor 322) to operate to increase the pressure of the fluid output from the evaporator (e.g., evaporator 318). The processing logic can cause a motor to drive the first compressor based on sensor data (e.g., temperature sensor data, pressure sensor data, flow rate sensor data, etc.). (E.g., the processing logic can cause a motor connected to the first compressor to turn on.) The compressor can be a positive displacement compressor or a centrifugal compressor. The processing logic can cause a motor to drive the compressor. In some embodiments, the compressor supplies the first portion (of the first fluid) to the condenser (e.g., condenser 329) at an increased pressure.

[0156] At block 632, processing logic may increase the pressure of a second portion of the first fluid (e.g., output from the second evaporator) via a second compressor to form a second fluid and supply the second fluid to a pressure exchanger. In some embodiments, processing logic (e.g., of controller 380) may cause a second compressor (e.g., sub-compressor 356) to increase the pressure of the fluid output from the second evaporator (e.g., auxiliary evaporator 319). Processing logic may cause a motor to drive the second compressor (e.g., processing logic may cause a motor coupled to the second compressor to start). In some embodiments, processing logic may cause the second compressor to increase the pressure of a second portion of the first fluid (e.g., output from the second evaporator) to a second pressure based on sensor data (e.g., temperature sensor data, pressure sensor data, flow rate sensor data, etc.) to form a second fluid (e.g., to be supplied to the pressure exchanger). In some embodiments, the compressor supplies the second fluid at the second pressure to a second inlet of the pressure exchanger.

[0157] Figure 7 This is a block diagram illustrating a computer system 700 according to certain embodiments. In some embodiments, the computer system 700 is a client device. In some embodiments, the computer system 700 is a controller device (e.g., a server, ...). Figure 1A To the controller 180 in Figure 1D, Figure 3A-3P , Figure 4A , Figure 4B , Figure 5A and Figure 5B (Controller 380, etc.).

[0158] In some embodiments, computer system 700 (e.g., via a network such as a local area network (LAN), intranet, extranet, or the Internet) is connected to other computer systems. Computer system 700 operates as a server or client computer in a client-server environment, or as a peer-to-peer computer in a peer-to-peer or distributed network environment. In some embodiments, computer system 700 is provided by a personal computer (PC), tablet PC, set-top box (STB), personal digital assistant (PDA), cellular phone, network device, server, network router, switch, or bridge, or any device capable of executing a set of instructions (sequential or otherwise) specifying the actions to be taken by that device. Furthermore, the term "computer" should include any collection of computers that individually or jointly execute a set (or more) of instructions to perform any one or more methods described herein.

[0159] In some embodiments, the computer system 700 includes a processing device 702, a volatile memory 704 (e.g., random access memory (RAM)), a non-volatile memory 706 (e.g., read-only memory (ROM) or electrically erasable programmable read-only memory (EEPROM)) and / or a data storage device 716, which communicate with each other via a bus 708.

[0160] In some embodiments, the processing device 702 is provided by one or more processors, such as general-purpose processors (e.g., in some examples, complex instruction set computing (CISC) microprocessors, reduced instruction set computing (RISC) microprocessors, very long instruction word (VLIW) microprocessors, microprocessors implementing other types of instruction sets, or microprocessors implementing combinations of various instruction sets) or special-purpose processors (e.g., in some examples, application-specific integrated circuits (ASICs), field-programmable gate arrays (FPGAs), digital signal processors (DSPs), or network processors). In some embodiments, the processing device 702 is provided by one or more of a single processor, multiple processors, a single processor having multiple processing cores, and / or the like.

[0161] In some embodiments, the computer system 700 further includes a network interface device 722 (e.g., connected to a network 774). In some embodiments, the computer system 700 includes one or more input / output (I / O) devices. In some embodiments, the computer system 700 further includes a video display unit 710 (e.g., a liquid crystal display (LCD)), an alphanumeric input device 712 (e.g., a keyboard), a cursor control device 714 (e.g., a mouse), and / or a signal generation device 720.

[0162] In some embodiments, the data storage device 718 (e.g., disk drive memory, fixed and / or removable storage device, fixed disk drive, removable memory card, optical storage, network attached storage (NAS) and / or storage area network (SAN)) includes a non-transitory computer-readable storage medium 724 thereon storing instructions 726 encoded for any one or more of the methods or functions described herein, and instructions 526 for implementing the methods described herein.

[0163] In some embodiments, while the instruction 726 is being executed by the computer system 704, the instruction 726 also resides wholly or partially in the volatile memory 702 and / or the processing device 700. Therefore, in some embodiments, the volatile memory 704 and the processing device 702 also constitute machine-readable storage media.

[0164] Although computer-readable storage medium 724 is shown as a single medium in the illustrative example, the term "computer-readable storage medium" should include a single medium or multiple media (e.g., a centralized or distributed database and / or associated caches and servers) that store one or more sets of executable instructions. The term "computer-readable storage medium" should also include any tangible medium capable of storing or encoding a set of instructions for execution by a computer, which causes the computer to perform any or more methods described herein. The term "computer-readable storage medium" should include, but is not limited to, solid-state memory, optical media, and magnetic media.

[0165] The methods, components, and features described herein can be implemented by distributed hardware components or integrated into the functionality of other hardware components such as ASICs, FPGAs, DSPs, or similar devices. Furthermore, the methods, components, and features can be implemented by firmware modules or functional circuitry within a hardware device. Additionally, the methods, components, and features can be implemented in any combination of hardware devices and computer program components, or within a computer program.

[0166] Unless otherwise specified, terms such as “actuate,” “regulate,” “cause,” “control,” “determine,” “identify,” “provide,” “receive,” “adjust,” etc., refer to actions and processes performed or implemented by a computer system that manipulate data represented as physical (electronic) quantities in computer system registers and memories and convert them into physical quantities similarly represented in computer system memory or registers or other such information storage, transmission, or display devices. Furthermore, the terms “first,” “second,” “third,” “fourth,” etc., as used herein are intended as labels to distinguish different elements and may not have ordinal meaning based on their numerical names.

[0167] The examples described herein also relate to an apparatus for performing the methods described herein. This apparatus may be specifically configured to perform the methods described herein, or it may comprise a general-purpose computer system selectively programmed by a computer program stored in a computer system. Such a computer program may be stored in a computer-readable tangible storage medium.

[0168] The methods and illustrative examples described herein are not inherently related to any particular computer or other device. Various general-purpose systems can be used in accordance with the teachings herein, or it may prove convenient to construct more specialized devices to perform the methods and / or their respective functions, routines, subroutines, or operations described herein. Structural examples of various such systems are illustrated in the description above.

[0169] The foregoing description sets forth numerous specific details, such as examples of specific systems, components, methods, etc., to provide a good understanding of several embodiments of the present disclosure. However, it will be apparent to those skilled in the art that at least some embodiments of the present disclosure can be implemented without these specific details. In other instances, well-known components or methods are not described in detail, or are presented in a simple block diagram format to avoid unnecessarily obscuring the present disclosure. Therefore, the specific details set forth are merely exemplary. Specific implementations may differ from these exemplary details and may still be contemplated within the scope of this disclosure.

[0170] References to an embodiment or an embodiment throughout this specification mean that a particular feature, structure, or characteristic associated with the description of that embodiment is included in at least one embodiment. Therefore, phrases appearing throughout this specification in “an embodiment” or “an embodiment” do not necessarily refer to the same embodiment. Furthermore, the term “or” is intended to mean inclusive or, not exclusive, “or.” When the terms “about,” “substantially,” or “approximately” are used herein, it means that the presented nominal values ​​are accurate to within ±10%. Additionally, the terms “first,” “second,” “third,” “fourth,” etc., as used herein are intended as labels to distinguish different elements and do not necessarily have ordinal meanings based on their numerical names.

[0171] As used herein, the terms “above,” “below,” “between,” “set on,” and “above” refer to the relative position of a material layer or component with respect to other layers or components. In some examples, a layer set on, above, or below another layer may be in direct contact with that layer or may have one or more intermediate layers. Furthermore, a layer set between two layers may be in direct contact with both layers or may have one or more intermediate layers. Similarly, unless otherwise explicitly stated, a feature set between two features may be in direct contact with the adjacent feature or may have one or more intermediate layers.

[0172] Although the operations of the methods herein are shown and described in a specific order, the order of operations for each method can be changed, such that some operations can be performed in reverse order, or that some operations can be performed at least partially concurrently with other operations. In another embodiment, instructions or sub-operations of different operations can be performed intermittently and / or alternately. In one embodiment, multiple metal bonding operations are performed as a single step.

[0173] It should be understood that the above description is intended to be illustrative and not limiting. Many other embodiments will be apparent to those skilled in the art after reading and understanding the above specification. Therefore, the scope of this disclosure should be determined by referring to the appended claims and the full scope of the equivalents covered by each claim.

Claims

1. A refrigeration and heat pump system, comprising: Pressure exchanger, the pressure exchanger being configured as follows: Receive the first fluid and the second fluid; Pressure is exchanged between the first fluid and the second fluid; as well as The first fluid is output to the first gas cooler, and the second fluid is output to the second gas cooler; The first heat exchanger is configured as follows: The first fluid is received from the first gas cooler, and the second fluid is received from the second gas cooler; The first heat is exchanged between the first fluid and the second fluid; as well as Output the first fluid and the second fluid; as well as The second heat exchanger is configured as follows: Receives a heat exchanger output from the first heat exchanger and an evaporator output from the evaporator, wherein the heat exchanger output includes either the first fluid or the second fluid; A second heat is exchanged between the output of the heat exchanger and the output of the evaporator; and The heat exchanger output is supplied to the pressure exchanger, and the evaporator output is supplied to the compressor.

2. The refrigeration and heat pump system according to claim 1, characterized in that: The first fluid is output from the first heat exchanger to the second heat exchanger; The second fluid is output from the first heat exchanger to the pressure exchanger; as well as The output of the heat exchanger is a first fluid received by the second heat exchanger from the first heat exchanger and supplied to the pressure exchanger by the second heat exchanger.

3. The refrigeration and heat pump system according to claim 2, characterized in that, The system also includes: The first three-way valve is configured as follows: Receive the first fluid from the first heat exchanger; and Selectively providing one or more of the following: providing at least a first portion of the first fluid to the second three-way valve; or providing at least a second portion of the first fluid to the second heat exchanger; and The second three-way valve is configured as follows: Selectively receive one or more of the following: at least a first portion of the first fluid from the second three-way valve; or at least a second portion of the first fluid from the second heat exchanger; and The first fluid is supplied to the pressure exchanger.

4. The refrigeration and heat pump system according to claim 1, characterized in that: The first fluid is output from the first heat exchanger to the pressure exchanger; The second fluid is output from the first heat exchanger to the second heat exchanger; and The output of the heat exchanger is a second fluid received by the second heat exchanger from the first heat exchanger and supplied to the pressure exchanger by the second heat exchanger.

5. The refrigeration and heat pump system according to claim 1, characterized in that, The first gas cooler is configured to receive the first fluid from the compressor, wherein the pressure exchanger outputs the second fluid to the second gas cooler.

6. The refrigeration and heat pump system according to claim 1, characterized in that, The three-way valve is configured to receive the evaporator output from the evaporator and provide one or more of the following: providing at least a first portion of the evaporator output to the second heat exchanger; or providing at least a second portion of the evaporator output to the compressor.

7. The refrigeration and heat pump system according to claim 1, characterized in that, The first gas cooler is configured to transfer a first thermal energy between the first fluid and a first corresponding environment, wherein the second gas cooler is configured to transfer a second thermal energy between the second fluid and a second corresponding environment.

8. The refrigeration and heat pump system according to claim 1, characterized in that, The pressure exchanger receives the first fluid via a high-pressure input port and the second fluid via a low-pressure input port, wherein the pressure exchanger outputs the first fluid via a low-pressure output port and the second fluid via a high-pressure output port.

9. A refrigeration and heat pump system, comprising: Pressure exchanger, the pressure exchanger being configured as follows: Receive the first fluid and the second fluid; Pressure is exchanged between the first fluid and the second fluid; as well as Output the first fluid and the second fluid; The first heat exchanger is configured as follows: The first fluid is received from the first gas cooler, and the second fluid is received from the second gas cooler; The first heat is exchanged between the first fluid and the second fluid; as well as The first fluid is output to the pressure exchanger, and the second fluid is output to the pressure exchanger; as well as The second heat exchanger is configured as follows: Receives the first fluid from the pressure exchanger and the evaporator output from the evaporator; A second heat is exchanged between the first fluid and the evaporator output; as well as The first fluid is supplied to the fluid receiver, and the evaporator output is supplied to the compressor.

10. The refrigeration and heat pump system according to claim 9, characterized in that, The fluid receiver forms a chamber configured to separate the first fluid into a first gas and a first liquid.

11. The refrigeration and heat pump system according to claim 9, characterized in that, The first gas cooler is configured to receive the first fluid from the compressor, wherein the pressure exchanger outputs the second fluid to the second gas cooler.

12. The refrigeration and heat pump system according to claim 9, characterized in that, The three-way valve is configured to receive the evaporator output from the evaporator and provide one or more of the following: providing at least a first portion of the evaporator output to the second heat exchanger; or providing at least a second portion of the evaporator output to the compressor.

13. The refrigeration and heat pump system according to claim 9, characterized in that, The first gas cooler is configured to transfer a first thermal energy between the first fluid and a first corresponding environment, wherein the second gas cooler is configured to transfer a second thermal energy between the second fluid and a second corresponding environment.

14. The refrigeration and heat pump system according to claim 9, characterized in that, The pressure exchanger receives the first fluid via a high-pressure input port and the second fluid via a low-pressure input port, wherein the pressure exchanger outputs the first fluid via a low-pressure output port and the second fluid via a high-pressure output port.

15. A refrigeration and heat pump system, comprising: Pressure exchanger, the pressure exchanger being configured as follows: Receive the first fluid and the second fluid; Pressure is exchanged between the first fluid and the second fluid; as well as Output the first fluid and the second fluid; The first heat exchanger is configured as follows: Receives the first fluid from the pressure exchanger and the second fluid from the first gas cooler; The first heat is exchanged between the first fluid and the second fluid; as well as The first fluid is output to the compressor, and the second fluid is output to the second heat exchanger; as well as The second heat exchanger is configured as follows: Receives the first evaporator output from the first evaporator and the second fluid from the first heat exchanger; The second heat is exchanged between the output of the first evaporator and the second fluid; and The output of the first evaporator is provided to the compressor, and the second fluid is provided to the fluid receiver.

16. The refrigeration and heat pump system according to claim 15, characterized in that, The system also includes a third heat exchanger, which is configured such that: Receives the output of the second evaporator from the second evaporator and the output of the gas cooler from the second gas cooler; A third heat is exchanged between the output of the second evaporator and the output of the gas cooler; and The output of the second evaporator is provided to the second compressor, and the output of the gas cooler is provided to the fluid receiver.

17. The refrigeration and heat pump system according to claim 15, characterized in that, The fluid receiver forms a chamber configured to separate the first fluid into a first gas and a first liquid.

18. The refrigeration and heat pump system according to claim 16, characterized in that: The first gas cooler is configured to receive the first fluid from the compressor; The pressure exchanger outputs the second fluid to the second gas cooler; The first gas cooler is configured to transfer first thermal energy between the first fluid and a first corresponding environment; as well as The second gas cooler is configured to transfer a second thermal energy between the second fluid and a second corresponding environment.

19. The refrigeration and heat pump system according to claim 15, characterized in that, The three-way valve is configured to receive the first evaporator output from the first evaporator and provide one or more of the following: providing at least a first portion of the first evaporator output to the second heat exchanger; or providing at least a second portion of the first evaporator output to the compressor.

20. The refrigeration and heat pump system according to claim 15, characterized in that, The pressure exchanger receives the first fluid via a high-pressure input port and the second fluid via a low-pressure input port, wherein the pressure exchanger outputs the first fluid via a low-pressure output port and the second fluid via a high-pressure output port.

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