Cascade heating / cooling system with intermediate loop heat exchange

Abstract

A heating, ventilation, air conditioning, and refrigeration (HVACR) system includes a first heat transfer loop, a second heat transfer loop, a fluid loop, a heat exchanger, and a controller. The fluid circuit is located between the first heat transfer circuit and the second heat transfer circuit, and the heat exchanger is connected to the fluid circuit. The controller is configured to determine an operating parameter of the HVACR system; and control the heat exchanger to remove heat from the fluid circuit when the operating parameter is above a first threshold.

Description

Technical Field

[0001] The embodiments described herein generally relate to systems and methods for thermal energy control of heating, ventilation, air conditioning, and refrigeration (HVACR) systems. More specifically, the embodiments described herein relate to maintaining a desired temperature in the intermediate loop of a cascaded heating and / or cooling HVACR system under different system operating modes. Background Technology

[0002] Heating, ventilation, air conditioning, and refrigeration (HVACR) systems may include one or more heat transfer loops. These loops may include one or more compressors, condensers, evaporators, fans, filters, dampers, and various other devices. The compressors, condensers, expanders, and evaporators are fluidly connected. The heat transfer loop may be a heat pump, cooler, etc. Summary of the Invention

[0003] The features in the embodiments disclosed herein can activate, enable, and / or extend the application of HVACR systems including cascaded heat transfer loops such as gas compressor cooler units and / or heat pump units. The features in the embodiments disclosed herein can also allow reliable and / or long-term system operation when the operating capacities of the primary and secondary units in the cascaded system are not synchronized. The features in the embodiments disclosed herein can facilitate different system operating modes, such as system startup, stable operation, and intentional capacity mismatch (e.g., cooling-dominated system operation).

[0004] Features in the embodiments disclosed herein can maintain a desired temperature in the intermediate loop of a cascaded heating and / or cooling system under different system operating modes. These modes include, but are not limited to, system startup, unit(s) startup, individual unit capacity changes (e.g., loading, unloading, etc.), intentionally cooling-dominated operation, intentionally heating-dominated operation, unit(s) shutdown, and / or system shutdown. Features in the embodiments disclosed herein can prevent unacceptable temperature transitions (during one or more operating modes) that could negatively impact system operation (e.g., heating or cooling supply), leading to unstable system and / or unit(s) operation and affecting the short-term or long-term reliability of the units(s).

[0005] In an example embodiment, a heating, ventilation, air conditioning, and cooling (HVACR) system is provided. The HVACR system includes a first heat transfer loop, a second heat transfer loop, a fluid loop, a heat exchanger, and a controller; the fluid loop is located between the first and second heat transfer loops, and the heat exchanger is connected to the fluid loop. The controller is configured to determine operating parameters of the system; and when the operating parameters are higher than a first threshold, to control the heat exchanger to remove heat from the fluid loop.

[0006] In an example embodiment, a method is provided for operating a heating, ventilation, air conditioning, and cooling (HVACR) system. The HVACR system includes a first heat transfer loop, a second heat transfer loop, a fluid loop, a heat exchanger, and a controller; the fluid loop is located between the first and second heat transfer loops, and the heat exchanger is connected to the fluid loop. The method includes determining operating parameters of the system; and when the operating parameters are higher than the first threshold, controlling the heat exchanger to remove heat from the fluid loop. Attached Figure Description

[0007] The accompanying drawings illustrate various embodiments of the system and method, and also illustrate embodiments of various other aspects of this disclosure. Those skilled in the art will understand that the element boundaries (e.g., boxes, groups of boxes, or other shapes) shown in the figures represent one example of a boundary. It is possible that in some examples, one element may be designed as multiple elements, or multiple elements may be designed as one element. In some instances, an element shown as an internal component of one element may be implemented as an external component in another element, and vice versa. A non-limiting and non-exhaustive description is provided with reference to the following drawings. The components in the drawings are not necessarily drawn to scale, but rather the focus is on illustrating principles. In the following “Detailed Description”, embodiments are described as illustrative only, as various changes and modifications may become apparent to those skilled in the art based on the “Detailed Description” below.

[0008] Figure 1 A schematic diagram of a controller subsystem arranged according to at least some of the embodiments described herein is shown.

[0009] Figure 2A A schematic diagram of a cascaded HVACR system arranged according to at least some of the embodiments described herein is shown.

[0010] Figure 2B A schematic diagram of a cascaded HVACR system arranged according to at least some of the embodiments described herein is shown.

[0011] Figure 2C A schematic diagram of a cascaded HVACR system arranged according to at least some of the embodiments described herein is shown.

[0012] Figure 3 This is a flowchart illustrating an example processing flow for operating a cascaded HVACR system, arranged according to at least some of the embodiments described herein. Detailed Implementation

[0013] In the following “Detailed Description”, specific embodiments of the present disclosure are described herein with reference to the accompanying drawings, which form part of the “Detailed Description”. Throughout this “Detailed Description” and the drawings, like reference numerals denote elements that may perform the same, similar, or equivalent functions, unless the context otherwise indicates. Furthermore, unless otherwise stated, the description of each successive drawing may refer to features from one or more preceding drawings to provide a clearer context and a more substantial explanation of the current exemplary embodiments. Moreover, the exemplary embodiments described in the “Detailed Description,” the drawings, and the claims are not intended to be limiting. Other embodiments may be used, and other changes may be made, without departing from the spirit or scope of the subject matter presented herein. It will be readily understood that, as generally described herein and illustrated in the drawings, aspects of the present disclosure can be arranged, substituted, combined, separated, and designed in a variety of different configurations, all of which are expressly contemplated herein.

[0014] It should be understood that the disclosed embodiments are merely examples of this disclosure, and these embodiments can be embodied in various forms. No detailed description of well-known functions or constructions is provided to avoid obscuring this disclosure with unnecessary detail. Therefore, the specific structural and functional details disclosed herein should not be construed as limiting, but merely as the basis for the claims and as a representative basis for teaching those skilled in the art to adopt this disclosure in various ways with virtually any suitable detailed structure.

[0015] Furthermore, this disclosure can be described herein in terms of functional block components and various processing steps. It should be understood that such functional blocks can be implemented by any number of hardware and / or software components configured to perform the specified functions.

[0016] The scope of this disclosure should be determined by the appended claims and their legal equivalents, and not by the examples given herein. For example, the steps recited in any method claim may be performed in any order, and are not limited to the order presented in the claims. Furthermore, unless specifically described herein as “critical” or “essential,” no element is necessary for the practice of this disclosure.

[0017] As used herein, “direct” upstream or “direct” downstream can refer to any other component, outside of the fluid lines / connections / pipes used to transport the fluid, that does not provide a fluid loop between these directly related elements. As used herein, “upstream” and “downstream” can refer to the direction of flow of the fluid or its components through the fluid loop.

[0018] Figure 1 A schematic diagram of a controller subsystem 100 arranged according to at least some of the embodiments described herein is shown. In example embodiments, the controller subsystem 100 may be part of an HVACR system and / or part of a unit (e.g., a gas compression unit).

[0019] It should be understood that an HVACR system may include one or more heat transfer loops. Each heat transfer loop may be a gas compression unit, such as a heat pump, cooler, etc. This gas compression unit (i.e., heat transfer loop) may form a cascaded HVACR system including at least a primary unit and secondary units. Each heat transfer loop may include one or more compressors, condensers, evaporators, fans, filters, dampers, and various other devices. The one or more compressors, condensers, expanders, and evaporators are fluidly connected.

[0020] In example embodiments, an HVACR system may include a thermal station with multiple data sensors that generate a continuous data stream, a cooler, an air processor, a furnace, and / or a boiler, a variable air volume (VAV) box and dampers, sensors for monitoring the temperature or humidity of the space, etc. In embodiments, an HVACR system may include panels, sensors, controllers, microprocessor-controlled devices, converters, thermostats, furnaces, heating systems, coolers, cooling systems, air conditioning, air filters, air purifiers, fire and life safety systems, security systems, alarm systems, occupancy sensors, electrical system monitors and controllers, lighting system monitors and controllers, ventilation system monitors and controllers, temperature sensors, smoke sensors, light sensors, motion sensors, humidity sensors, pumps, air processors, fluid and air movement and handling equipment, terminal devices, life science and pharmacology control equipment and monitoring systems, positive pressure cleanrooms, negative pressure cleanrooms, industrial automation and control equipment and systems, programmable logic controllers, etc.

[0021] In an example embodiment, the controller subsystem 100 includes a controller 110. The controller 110 may be an HVACR system controller and / or a unit (e.g., a gas compression unit) controller. The controller 110 may include a processor 112 operatively communicating with a memory 114, a user interface 116, and a data memory 118. The memory 114 may include random access memory (RAM) that may be used, for example, to store transient data, computations and intermediate results, input / output (I / O) buffers, graphical user interface (GUI) buffers, program execution, and for any other suitable purpose. The data memory 118 may include non-volatile storage devices such as flash drives, read-only memory (ROM), electrically erasable programmable ROM (EEPROM), magnetic hard disks, solid-state drives (SSDs), or hybrid drives (combined hard disks / SSDs) that can be used to store data that persists through power cycling.

[0022] In an example embodiment, the user interface 116 may include a plurality of elements that facilitate user input and display output to the user, and may include one or more buttons, switches, light-emitting diode (LED) indicators, character displays (such as liquid crystal displays (LCDs) or vacuum fluorescent displays (VFDs), graphic displays (such as thin-film transistor (TFT) displays), touch screen displays, etc.

[0023] In an example embodiment, the controller 110 may also include a data network interface 115 for transmitting data (wirelessly or wiredly) to one or more user devices and / or one or more components of an HVACR system via a data network 120 (such as a private LAN and / or the public Internet). The user device may include a mobile phone, smartphone, tablet, smartwatch, pager, server, laptop, and / or desktop computer, etc. An optional server 130 may be communicatively connected to the controller 110 via the data network 120 and store information for multiple devices, including information related to a specific product, product version, firmware version, and / or software version.

[0024] Figure 2A , Figure 2B ,and Figure 2CThe figure illustrates a schematic diagram of a cascaded HVACR system (201, 202, 203) arranged according to at least some of the embodiments described herein. Each HVACR system (201, 202, 203) may be a cascaded (heating and / or cooling) system comprising a first heat transfer loop 210 (or main heat transfer loop 210) and a second heat transfer loop 220 (or secondary heat transfer loop 220). Each heat transfer loop may be a unit (e.g., a gas compression unit), such as a heat pump, cooler, etc. It should be understood that the HVACR system may include fluid lines / connections / pipes for conveying fluid. The HVACR system may also include flow control devices, such as valves (e.g., solenoid valves, ball valves, three-way valves, butterfly valves, check valves, etc.), dampers, pumps, etc., to allow regulation and / or modulation of the fluid flow (e.g., velocity, flow rate, etc.) through the flow control device, or to prevent fluid from flowing through the flow control device. The primary unit 210 and / or the secondary unit 220 can be water source units.

[0025] In an example embodiment, each heat transfer loop (unit) may include a compressor, a condenser, an optional expander, an evaporator, and a controller (e.g., Figure 1(110 in the original text), the controller is configured to control the operation of other components of the heat transfer loop. Heat transfer loops are typically used in various systems that control environmental conditions (e.g., temperature, humidity, air quality, etc.) in a regulated space. The regulated space can be a space within an office building, commercial building, factory, laboratory, data center, residential building, etc. In an example embodiment, the heat transfer loop can be configured as a cooling system (e.g., an air conditioning system) capable of operating in a cooling mode. In another example embodiment, the heat transfer loop can be configured as a heat pump capable of operating in a heating / defrosting mode. It should be understood that the heat transfer loop can be configured to operate in a cooling mode and / or a heating / defrosting mode. In an example embodiment, the heat transfer loop can heat or cool a process fluid (e.g., air, water, and / or ethylene glycol, etc.). A working fluid (e.g., one or more refrigerants) can flow through the heat transfer loop and can be used to heat or cool the process fluid. In the heat transfer loop, the compressor, condenser, expander, and evaporator can be fluidly connected. An "expander" as used herein can also be referred to as an expansion device. The expander can be an expansion valve, expansion plate, expansion container, orifice, or other expansion mechanism of this type. It should be understood that the expander can be any suitable type of expander used in the art for expanding the working fluid to reduce its pressure and temperature. The heat transfer circuit can be configured to include more or fewer components, such as, but not limited to, an economizer heat exchanger, one or more flow control devices (e.g., valves, pumps, etc.), a lubricant separator, a receiving tank, a dryer, a suction liquid heat exchanger, one or more sensors, etc.

[0026] It should be understood that the heat transfer loop can operate based on generally known principles. The heat transfer loop can be configured to heat and / or cool a liquid process fluid. This liquid process fluid can be a heat transfer fluid or medium (e.g., a liquid such as, but not limited to, water). The heat transfer loop is typically representative of a liquid cooler system. Alternatively, the heat transfer loop can be configured to heat and / or cool a gaseous process fluid (e.g., a heat transfer medium or fluid (e.g., a gas (such as, but not limited to, air))), in which case the heat transfer loop is typically representative of air conditioning and / or a heat pump.

[0027] In an example embodiment, the heat transfer circuit can operate as a gas compression circuit, such that the compressor compresses a working fluid (e.g., a heat transfer fluid such as, but not limited to, a refrigerant) from a relatively low-pressure gas to a relatively high-pressure gas. The relatively high-pressure gas, at a relatively high temperature, is discharged from the compressor and flows through the condenser. Following generally known principles, the working fluid flows through the condenser and dissipates heat to the process fluid (e.g., water, air, etc.), thereby cooling the working fluid. The cooled working fluid, now in liquid form, flows to the expander, which reduces the pressure of the working fluid. As a result, a portion of the working fluid is converted to a gaseous form. The working fluid, now in a mixed liquid and gaseous form, flows to the evaporator. The working fluid flows through the evaporator and removes heat from the process fluid (e.g., a heat transfer medium such as, but not limited to, water, a solution, air, etc.), heating the working fluid and converting it to a gaseous form. This gaseous working fluid then returns to the compressor. The above process continues when the heat transfer circuit is operating, for example, in cooling mode (e.g., when the compressor is activated).

[0028] like Figure 2A As shown, the HVACR system 201 is a cascaded system comprising a heat transfer loop (primary unit) 210 and a heat transfer loop (secondary unit) 220. An optional cooling loop may be a source of heat energy to the cascaded system 201. In an example embodiment, this cooling loop may be a cooled water loop or some form of geothermal heat source, such as surface water (ocean, lake, stream, etc.) or a geothermal well system (e.g., vertical borehole, horizontal ditch, etc.).

[0029] In an example embodiment, in the cooling circuit, a fluid flow (e.g., water) 242 having a first temperature (e.g., equal to or about 50°F) can be mixed with a fluid flow 246 having a second temperature (e.g., equal to or about 38°F, which is lower than the first temperature) to form a fluid flow 244 having a third temperature (e.g., equal to or about 43°F, which is between the first and second temperatures). This fluid flow 244 can flow into the main unit 210 (e.g., via a pump 240) through its first inlet 211 at the cooling circuit side. The main unit 210 can remove heat from the fluid flow 244, causing it to become a fluid flow 247. The fluid flow 247 having the second temperature exits the main unit 210, for example via a flow control device (e.g., a valve) 215, through its first outlet 212 at the cooled circuit side. The fluid flow 247 can be passed as a fluid flow 248 through the flow control device (e.g., a valve) 205. In an example embodiment, when the flow control device 205 is controlled by, for example, a system controller (e.g., Figure 1 When controlled by 110), a portion of the fluid flow 247 can also be passed through the flow control device 205 as fluid flow 246.

[0030] In an example embodiment, the main (low-temperature) unit 210 can raise the temperature of the cooling circuit to a higher temperature (in the intermediate circuit) by removing heat energy (e.g., British thermal units) from the cooling circuit and / or adding heat energy to the intermediate circuit. The intermediate circuit can be a fluid circuit, such as a water-heated circulation circuit. The main unit 210 can include, but is not limited to, multiple water-to-water heat pumps and / or multiple air-to-water heat pumps. The main unit 210 can use any suitable type of compressor technology. The main unit 210 at the cooling circuit side may include an evaporator to remove heat energy from the cooling circuit, and the main unit 210 at the intermediate circuit side may include a condenser to add heat energy to the intermediate circuit.

[0031] In an example embodiment, the secondary (high-temperature) unit 220 can remove heat energy from the intermediate loop and raise the temperature of the intermediate loop to a higher temperature in the heating loop by adding heat energy to the heating loop. The secondary unit 220 can be, but is not limited to, multiple water-to-water heat pumps. The secondary unit 220 can use any suitable type of compressor technology. The secondary unit 220 on the intermediate loop side may include an evaporator to remove heat energy from the intermediate loop, and the primary unit 220 on the heating loop side may include a condenser to add heat energy to the heating loop.

[0032] In an example embodiment, the intermediate loop may be a closed loop connecting the main unit 210 and the secondary unit 220 (between the main unit 210 and the secondary unit 220). In the intermediate loop, a fluid flow (e.g., water) 292 having a fourth temperature (e.g., at or about 95°F) may flow out of the second outlet 214 of the main unit 210 via, for example, a pump 250, and flow into the secondary unit 220 via its first inlet 221. The secondary unit 220 may remove heat from the fluid flow 292, causing the fluid flow 292 to become a fluid flow 282. The fluid flow 282 having a fifth temperature (e.g., at or about 85°F, which is lower than the fourth temperature) flows out of the secondary unit 220 via, for example, a flow control device (e.g., a valve) 265 through its first outlet 222 at the side of the intermediate loop.

[0033] In an example embodiment, when the primary unit 210 and secondary unit 220 are balanced (i.e., synchronized), fluid flow 282 can flow through a flow control device (e.g., a valve) 235 and become fluid flow 284. Fluid flow 284 can flow into a receiver (e.g., a buffer tank) 270 via its inlet 271 and out of the receiver 270 via its outlet 272. Fluid flow 284 can then flow into the primary unit 210 via a second inlet 213 at the intermediate loop side through the flow control device 225. The primary unit 210 can add heat to fluid flow 284, causing fluid flow 284 to flow out of its second outlet 214 at the intermediate loop side and become fluid flow 292. It should be understood that when the total cooling load of the primary (low-temperature) unit 210 and the total heating load of the secondary (high-temperature unit 220) are balanced, the cascaded units (primary unit 210 and secondary unit 220) on the intermediate loop side (e.g., the water heating circulation side) are configured to take the fluid leaving the condenser of the low-temperature unit 210 and push it into the evaporator of the high-temperature unit 220 to further increase the temperature.

[0034] In an example embodiment, in the heating loop, a fluid flow (e.g., water) 262 having a sixth temperature (e.g., at or approximately 135°F) flows into the secondary unit 220 via a pump 260 through a second inlet 223 at the side of the heating loop. The secondary unit 220 can add heat energy to the fluid flow 262, causing it to become a fluid flow 264 (having a seventh temperature, e.g., at or approximately 155°F, which is greater than the sixth temperature), thereby exiting its second outlet 224 at the side of the heating loop, for example via a flow control device (e.g., a valve) 255. It should be understood that the heating loop may be a primary heat storage device for the heat energy from the cascaded system. The heating loop may be a building heating water loop or a process heating water loop.

[0035] It should be understood that in typical cascaded system operation, the capacities of the cooling and heating loops may be unbalanced or asynchronous. This means that the heat output of the condenser of the primary unit 210 may not naturally and dynamically match the heat input requirements of the evaporator of the secondary unit 220. This discrepancy (between the heat output of 210 and the heat input of 220) can cause temperature variations in the intermediate loop. It should be understood that the capacities of the primary unit 210 and the secondary unit 220 can be controlled to maintain the intermediate loop temperature within an acceptable / desirable range under certain operating conditions. However, under the various dynamic conditions experienced by the cascaded system, such as preventing unacceptable transient temperature changes (during one or more operating modes), it may be difficult or impossible to guarantee that the intermediate loop temperature remains within an acceptable / desirable range. Variations in the intermediate loop temperature outside the acceptable / desirable design range can lead to system and / or unit failures.

[0036] In an example embodiment, when the primary unit 210 and the secondary unit 220 are unbalanced (i.e., out of sync), fluid flow 282 can flow through flow control device 235 and become fluid flow 286. That is, instead of fluid flow 282 flowing through flow control device 235 and becoming fluid flow 284, flow control device 235 is controlled (e.g., controlled by a controller) to guide fluid flow 282 (or fluid flow 292) into heat exchanger 230 via its first inlet 233. Heat exchanger 230 is coupled to, connected to, or disposed in an intermediate loop (e.g., heat exchanger 230 is connected to fluid flow 282 or fluid flow 292). The heat exchanger 230 can remove heat energy from the fluid flow 286 in the intermediate loop or add heat energy to the fluid flow 286 based on operating parameters, such that the fluid flow 286 can flow out of the heat exchanger 230 via its first outlet 234 and become the fluid flow 288, and then become the fluid flow 284 flowing into the receiver 270.

[0037] In an example embodiment, the operating parameter may be the temperature of the intermediate loop (e.g., the water temperature leaving and / or entering the secondary unit 220, the water temperature leaving and / or entering the main unit 210, or a combination thereof). The operating parameter may be determined (e.g., by a controller) via sensing measurements from (multiple) sensors (e.g., multiple temperature sensors).

[0038] In an example embodiment, a fluid flow (away from the intermediate loop side) may flow into the heat exchanger 230 via its second inlet (232 or 231), and the heat exchanger 230 may remove heat from or add heat to this fluid flow, and the fluid flow may exit the heat exchanger 230 via its second outlet (231 or 232). The flow control device 245 may be controlled (e.g., via a controller) to adjust, regulate, modulate, or control the flow rate and / or total flow of the fluid flow (away from the intermediate loop side) based on determined operating parameters, such that the operating parameters can be changed back to an acceptable / desirable range.

[0039] It should be understood that heat exchanger 230 can be, for example, an isolation heat exchanger used in the intermediate loop of a cascaded heating / cooling system to achieve heat exchange between the intermediate loop and another heat sink and / or heat source (not shown, on the side away from the intermediate loop). Such a heat sink and / or heat source can be an instantaneous heat sink / heat source, such as a cooling tower loop, a geothermal loop, a chilled water loop, etc. It should be understood that the secondary (high-temperature) unit 220 may need to dissipate more heat energy generated by the primary (low-temperature) unit 210 due to the heat generated via compression. It should be understood that the primary unit 210 and the secondary unit 220 may almost never be in equilibrium, and therefore the intermediate loop temperature can vary. By adding heat exchanger 230 to the intermediate loop, heat energy can be added to or removed from the intermediate loop to ensure that the intermediate loop temperature remains within operating parameters.

[0040] In an example embodiment, the cooling capacity of the primary unit 210 may be or approximately 1000 tons. That is, the primary unit 210 can produce a cooling capacity of 1000 tons or approximately 1000 tons, and the energy discharged into its condenser loop may be 1300 tons or approximately 1300 tons due to the presence of heat of compression. If the capacity of the secondary unit 220 is limited to 1000 tons or approximately 1000 tons (e.g., based on its evaporator capacity), an additional 300 tons or approximately 300 tons may need to be discharged from the intermediate loop via heat exchanger 230. That is, the capacity of heat exchanger 230 may be or approximately 300 tons. It should also be understood that the size of heat exchanger 230 and / or the heat storage tank and / or the heat source (capacity) may be determined based on system requirements. For example, if they only require system startup and transient load modulation, their size may be determined based on the minimum load of the primary unit 210. If there is a need for the main unit 210 to provide its full cooling capacity under any (or no) heating load, its size can be determined based on the full cooling capacity of the main unit 210. Heat storage units and / or heat sources connected to the insulated heat exchanger 230 can provide the removal of heat from the intermediate loop and / or the addition of heat to the intermediate loop via the operation of the heat exchanger 230. In example embodiments, the types of heat storage units and / or heat sources include, but are not limited to, evaporative cooling towers dedicated to intermediate loop operation, and / or evaporative cooling towers applied to the operation of dedicated units (210, 220). It should also be understood that dry coolers or evaporative fluid coolers can be used instead of separate insulated heat exchangers(230) and evaporative cooling towers(230) as equivalent devices. The cooling towers can be configured to add heat energy to the atmosphere by controlling, for example, fan speed or the flow of water into the cooling tower.

[0041] In an example embodiment, the heat exchanger 230 may be a water-to-water heat exchanger (i.e., a water-to-air heat exchanger), a water-to-air heat exchanger, etc. For a water-to-water heat exchanger, the intermediate loop temperature can be controlled (e.g., via a controller, through flow control device 245) by controlling the flow rate (e.g., total flow, flow rate, etc.) through the water-to-water heat exchanger. For example, when the flow rate is controlled to decrease, the capacity discharged (and / or added) by the heat exchanger 230 can decrease. Conversely, when the flow rate is controlled to increase, the capacity can increase. The water-to-water heat exchanger may be connected in series with multiple heat sources (and / or heat storage devices), such as geothermal energy, condenser loops, cooling water loops, hot water loops, wastewater, water bodies, and / or any feasible fluid flow with a temperature difference from the intermediate loop.

[0042] In the example embodiment, the flow rate (of the heat exchanger 230) can be controlled in different ways. For example, a variable speed pump can be used to regulate the flow rate, a modulation valve (e.g., flow control device 245) can be used to regulate the flow rate, etc. The pump(s) / valve(s) can be on either side of the heat exchanger 230, and they can be fed back to be controlled to the desired intermediate loop temperature.

[0043] In an example embodiment, the heat exchanger (e.g., Figure 2C The 230A in the example can be an "air-water" heat exchanger. In this configuration, energy can be exchanged with ambient air, and the heat exchanger (e.g., Figure 2C The 230A in the text can be a cooling tower, a dry fluid cooler, etc. It should be understood that utilizing these types of heat exchangers (e.g., Figure 2C The capacity of heat exchanger 230A can be adjusted by regulating the airflow through the heat exchanger or by regulating the fluid flow through the heat exchanger. Variable speed fans can be used to regulate airflow. In the example embodiment, fan grading can also be used to change the airflow. Louvers can also be used to restrict airflow. It should be understood that for water flow (e.g., for heat exchanger 230), variable speed pumps and / or regulating valves can be used. These arrangements can also utilize intermediate loop temperatures for control.

[0044] It should be understood that, Figure 2B In the middle, the structure and function of HVACR system 202 are similar to Figure 2A The structure and function of the HVACR system 201 are the same, except that... Figure 2B In the process, (1) there are two main units (210 and 210A) arranged in parallel, (2) there are two secondary units (220 and 220A) arranged in parallel, and (3) in the heating circuit, the flow control device is located upstream of the inlet of the secondary units (220 and 220A) on the side of the heating circuit (instead of...). Figure 2A The shown setting is located downstream of the outlet of the secondary unit 220.

[0045] It should be understood that, Figure 2C In the middle, the structure and function of HVACR system 203 are similar to Figure 2A The structure and function of the HVACR system 201 are the same, except that... Figure 2CIn this configuration, (1) there is no cooling circuit, and the main unit 210B can be an "air source" unit; (2) a heat exchanger 230A replaces the heat exchanger 230 (and another heat source / storage unit); the heat exchanger 230A can be a fluid or dry cooler for heat dissipation; (3) a receiver (buffer tank) is located downstream of the outlet of the main unit 210B and upstream of the pump 250; and (4) a flow control device 275 is located downstream of the flow control device 255, such that when the flow control device 275 is subjected to, for example, a system controller (e.g., Figure 1 When controlled by 110), fluid flow 264A can be passed through flow control device 275 as fluid flow 264, and / or a portion of fluid flow 264A can be passed through flow control device 275 as fluid flow 266. Fluid flow 262 can be mixed with fluid flow 266 to form fluid flow 268 flowing to secondary unit 220B via pump 260.

[0046] In an example embodiment, heat exchanger 230A may be a fluid cooler / dry cooler heat exchanger in an intermediate loop. This heat exchanger 230A can perform the same function as the isolation heat exchanger 230 (plus a heat storage tank / heat source, such as a cooling tower), which may be preferred for users who do not wish to have an evaporative cooling tower.

[0047] It should be understood that, Figure 2A , Figure 2B ,and Figure 2C In this system, the cascaded system (201, 202, 203) may have multiple pumps 250 to manage fluid flow through the units and / or heat exchangers to minimize instantaneous changes in flow rate. The operation of the water circulation system can be achieved using valves and other hydronic specialties. The units (210, 210A, 210B, 220, 220A, 220B) can control their respective compressor capacities based on, for example, their respective condenser outlet water temperatures. Intermediate loop heat exchangers (230, 230A) enable unit startup and help prevent instantaneous changes in heating system load. If the main unit does not require full cooling capacity, the size of the heat exchangers (230, 230A) can be determined based on the minimum load of the main unit. If cooling is required under any heating load, the heat exchangers (230, 230A) can also be sized to accommodate the full cooling capacity of the main unit. Optional receivers (such as buffer tank 270) can be configured to mitigate instantaneous temperature changes caused by load variations in the unit and / or provide sufficient loop fluid volume to keep control in a steady state.

[0048] In an example embodiment, the controller (e.g., Figure 1The controller (110) can be configured to adjust and optimize the temperature of the intermediate loop based on the needs of the gas compression unit, external heating and cooling loads, and system operating modes. The controller can also be configured to control and coordinate the hierarchical operation of the gas compression unit, heat exchanger, and heat storage unit, and / or heat source. Features in the embodiments disclosed herein can provide an intermediate loop heat exchanger and heat storage unit / heat source, and provide a method to unintentionally or intentionally control the temperature in the intermediate loop when there is a capacity mismatch (e.g., imbalance, asynchrony) between the primary and secondary units.

[0049] It should be understood that the "matching" of the capacities of the primary and secondary units can take into account the fact that the heat from the unit's compressor, motor cooling, oil cooling, and / or intermediate loop pump can be added to the system as thermal energy. Thus, the thermal energy extracted from the cooling loop will not be equal to the thermal energy added to the heating loop. Conversely, the thermal energy added to the heating loop can be the sum of the thermal energy extracted from the cooling loop, plus the sum of all other thermal energy generated in the cascaded system. Therefore, the energy that must be extracted from the cooling loop can be 20% or approximately 20% to 60% less than the energy required by the heating loop.

[0050] It should be further understood that when the capacity of the primary unit and the secondary unit is unbalanced (asynchronous) during operation, the operation of the intermediate loop heat exchanger (230, 230A) can be controlled (e.g., by a controller) in different operating modes, for example, to add heat energy to the intermediate loop or remove heat energy from the intermediate loop.

[0051] In the example embodiment, the operation of the intermediate loop heat exchangers (230, 230A) can be controlled during the system heating mode startup process. It should be understood that starting a cascaded system can be a dynamic process, and maintaining the intermediate loop temperature during this process can be challenging. Controlling the operation of the heat exchangers (230, 230A) can simplify and stabilize the intermediate loop temperature during system operation and / or system startup. Example startup sequences using heat exchangers (230, 230A) may include: (1) activating the intermediate loop, heat exchangers (230, 230A), and exhaust (i.e., cooling tower) components, noting that control sequences and setpoints may be required for proper system operation; (2) activating the cooling loop flowing to the main unit (210, 210A, 210B); (3) activating the main unit to control its condenser outlet water temperature if heating is the primary objective of the system, or activating the main unit to control its evaporator outlet water temperature if cooling is the primary objective of the system; (4) thereby allowing the capacity of the main unit and the temperature of the intermediate loop to stabilize; (5) activating the heating loop flowing to the secondary unit (220, 220A, 220B); and (6) activating the secondary unit to control its condenser outlet water temperature if heating is the primary objective of the system.

[0052] It should be understood that when the secondary unit extracts heat from the intermediate loop, the heat discharged to the cooling tower via heat exchanger 230 can be reduced through system control, resulting in stable system operation. The system can operate in a balanced manner as long as the heat discharged to the intermediate loop by the primary unit(s) is greater than or equal to the thermal energy required by the secondary unit(s) to meet the heating load.

[0053] It should be understood that if the intermediate loop heat exchangers (230, 230A) are connected to a system that can not only remove heat from the intermediate loop but also add heat to the intermediate loop, the intermediate loop temperature can be controlled within the limits of the system's heat storage / heat source when the capacities of the primary and secondary units are not synchronized.

[0054] In the example embodiment, the operation of the intermediate loop heat exchangers (230, 230A) can be controlled during cooling-dominated operation. It should be understood that controlling both the cooling outlet water temperature and the hot outlet water temperature of a cascaded system can be a common requirement in cascaded systems, especially when the entire system is under cooling-dominated load conditions. Features in the embodiments disclosed herein can support cooling-dominated operation to utilize the cooling capacity of the (multiple) main units and reduce the need for additional cooling units, thereby reducing system costs. In this cooling-dominated operation, the control and / or system operation is similar to the control and / or operation during the system heating mode startup process. It should be understood that because the entire system load is cooling-dominated, the operating capacity of the (multiple) main units may exceed the capacity required to maintain the temperature in the intermediate loop. The heat exchanger 230 and the heat dissipation device (i.e., the cooling tower) can extract excess heat from the intermediate loop, thereby maintaining the temperature of the intermediate loop within an acceptable temperature range.

[0055] In an example embodiment, during heating-dominant operation (which is the reverse of cooling-dominant operation), the operation of the intermediate loop heat exchangers (230, 230A) can be controlled. If the heat storage tank and the heat source system are connected to the intermediate loop heat exchangers, control of both the cooling water outlet temperature and the hot water outlet temperature of the cascaded system is possible. In addition to heat energy from the cooling water loop load, control and / or operation can also enable the injection of heat energy from the heat source.

[0056] In the example embodiment, the operation of the intermediate loop heat exchangers (230, 230A) can be controlled during system shutdown. It should be understood that simultaneously reducing the capacity and shutting down both the primary and secondary units while maintaining the intermediate loop temperature can be very difficult. Features in the embodiments disclosed herein eliminate this difficulty. The startup sequence can be reversed.

[0057] It should be understood that a large buffer tank (rather than the heat exchangers 230, 230A in the intermediate loop) can be included in the system, and the operation of the unit can be synchronized sufficiently to enable its operation. Such an embodiment may not achieve cooling-dominated operation.

[0058] Figure 3 This is a flowchart illustrating an example processing flow 300 for operating a cascaded HVACR system, arranged according to at least some embodiments described herein.

[0059] It should be understood that, unless otherwise stated, the processing flow 300 disclosed herein may be performed by one or more controllers, including, for example, Figure 1The controller of the HVACR system (and / or unit) and / or any other suitable controller.

[0060] It should also be understood that processing flow 300 may include one or more operations, actions, or functions as illustrated by one or more boxes 310, 320, 330, 340, and 350. These various operations, functions, or actions may, for example, correspond to software, program code, or program instructions executable by a processor (e.g., a controller), which causes the function to be performed. Although illustrated as discrete boxes, significant modifications can be made; for example, two or more boxes may be reordered; additional boxes may be added; and, depending on the desired implementation, various boxes may be divided into additional boxes, combined into fewer boxes, or eliminated. It should be understood that operations including initialization may be performed prior to processing flow 300. For example, system parameters may be initialized. It should be understood that... Figure 1 , Figure 2A , Figure 2B and, Figure 2C The processes, operations, or actions described herein may be implemented or executed by the controller. Process flow 300 may begin at box 310.

[0061] At box 310 (Operating Cascaded System), the controller can be configured to operate the cascaded system (e.g., Figure 2A , Figure 2B and Figure 2C (See boxes 201, 202, and 203). It should be understood that (multiple) primary units and / or (multiple) secondary units can be operated and / or controlled independently of each other. Processing can proceed from box 310 to box 320.

[0062] At block 320 (Synchronization?), the controller can be configured to determine whether the primary unit(s) and secondary unit(s) are balanced (synchronized). In an example embodiment, the controller can be configured to determine whether the primary unit(s) and secondary unit(s) are balanced (synchronized) by determining whether operating parameters are within a desired range. The operating parameters may be the temperature of an intermediate loop (e.g., the outlet and / or inlet water temperature of the primary unit at the intermediate loop side, the outlet and / or inlet water temperature of the secondary unit at the intermediate loop side, a combination thereof, etc.). If the operating parameters are within a desired range (e.g., equal to or below a first threshold and equal to or above a second threshold, wherein the first threshold is greater than the second threshold), the cascaded system is synchronized, and processing can return from block 320 to block 310.

[0063] If the operating parameters are not within the expected range (e.g., higher than the first threshold or lower than the second threshold), the cascaded system is out of sync, and processing can proceed from block 320 to block 330.

[0064] At box 330 (Is there excessive heat?), the controller can be configured to determine whether the intermediate loop or system has excessive heat. In an example embodiment, the controller can be configured to determine whether the intermediate loop or system has excessive heat by determining whether the operating parameter is higher than the first threshold. If the operating parameter is higher than the first threshold and the intermediate loop or system has excessive heat, the processing can proceed from box 330 to box 350.

[0065] If the operating parameters are not higher than the first threshold (i.e., the operating parameters are lower than the second threshold), and the intermediate loop or system requires additional thermal energy, then the processing can proceed from block 330 to block 340.

[0066] At box 340 (adding heat to the intermediate loop), the controller can be configured to control the heat exchanger of the intermediate loop. Figures 2A to 2C The intermediate loop is controlled by 230, 230A, and / or their associated thermal storage / heat source, and / or their associated flow control devices(s) to add thermal energy to the intermediate loop in order to maintain / adjust the operating parameters within / to a desired range (e.g., equal to or below the first threshold and equal to or above the second threshold). Processing can proceed from block 340 back to block 310.

[0067] At box 350 (removing heat from the intermediate loop), the controller can be configured to control the heat exchanger of the intermediate loop. Figures 2A to 2C The system controls the operation of the intermediate loop by means of 230, 230A, and / or their associated heat storage / heat source, and / or their associated flow control devices(s) to remove / discharge / remove heat, thereby maintaining / adjusting the operating parameters within / to a desired range (e.g., equal to or below the first threshold and equal to or above the second threshold). Processing can return from block 350 to block 310.

[0068] It should be understood that the features in the embodiments disclosed herein may allow for unbalanced and / or uneven loading of the unit and allow for independent control of capacity in cold and hot water temperatures (e.g., allowing uneven loading and control for different water temperatures).

[0069] It should be understood, for reference Figure 3The processes described in the flowcharts and / or those described in other accompanying drawings may be implemented as computer software programs or in hardware. The computer program product may include a computer program stored on a computer-readable non-volatile medium. The computer program includes program code for performing the methods shown in the flowcharts and / or GUI. The processes and logic flows described in this document may be executed by one or more programmable processors (e.g., controllers(multiple) in an HVACR system, controllers(multiple) in a unit) that execute one or more computer programs to perform functions by manipulating input data and generating outputs. The processes and logic flows may also be executed by dedicated logic circuits, and the devices may also be implemented as dedicated logic circuits, such as field-programmable gate arrays, application-specific integrated circuits (ASICs), etc.

[0070] For example, processors suitable for executing computer programs include both general-purpose and special-purpose microprocessors (e.g., controllers in an HVACR system, controllers in a unit), and any one or more processors in any kind of digital computer. Typically, the processor receives instructions and data from read-only memory or random access memory, or from both. The basic components of a computer are a processor for executing instructions and one or more memory devices for storing instructions and data.

[0071] It should be understood that various features, variations, and multiple different embodiments have been shown and described with reference to various details. The descriptions in this application, sometimes based on specific embodiments, are for illustrative purposes only and are not intended to limit or imply that the content conceived is limited to only one particular embodiment or a plurality of specific embodiments. It should be understood that this disclosure is not limited to any single specific embodiment or the many listed variations. Many modifications, variations, and other embodiments will arise in those skilled in the art, and such modifications, variations, and other embodiments are intended to be covered by and are indeed covered by this disclosure. In fact, the scope of this disclosure should be determined by appropriate legal interpretation and construction (including equivalents) of this disclosure, as understood by those skilled in the art relying on the complete disclosure available at the time of filing.

[0072] aspect:

[0073] It should be understood that any one aspect of any one aspect can be combined with another.

[0074] Aspect 1. A heating, ventilation, air conditioning, and cooling (HVACR) system, the HVACR system comprising: a first heat transfer loop, a second heat transfer loop, a fluid loop located between the first heat transfer loop and the second heat transfer loop, a heat exchanger, and a controller, the heat exchanger being connected to the fluid loop, the controller being configured to: determine operating parameters of the system; and when the operating parameters are higher than a first threshold, control the heat exchanger to remove heat from the fluid loop.

[0075] Aspect 2. The HVACR system according to aspect 1, wherein the controller is further configured to control the heat exchanger to add heat to the fluid loop when the operating parameter is below a second threshold.

[0076] Aspect 3. The HVACR system according to aspect 1 or aspect 2, wherein the first heat transfer loop includes a fluid inlet and a fluid outlet, the fluid inlet being configured to receive fluid from the fluid loop, the fluid outlet being configured to allow fluid to flow out of the fluid loop, and the first heat transfer loop being configured to add heat to the fluid loop.

[0077] Aspect 4. The HVACR system according to any one of Aspects 1 to 3, the HVACR system further comprising: a cooling circuit configured to add heat to the fluid circuit via the first heat transfer circuit, the cooling circuit being a heat source of the HVACR system.

[0078] Aspect 5. The HVACR system according to any one of Aspects 1 to 4, wherein the second heat transfer loop includes a fluid inlet and a fluid outlet, the fluid inlet being configured to receive fluid from the fluid loop, the fluid outlet being configured to allow fluid to flow out of the fluid loop, and the second heat transfer loop being configured to remove heat from the fluid loop.

[0079] Aspect 6. The HVACR system according to any one of Aspects 1 to 5, the HVACR system further comprising: a heating circuit configured to remove heat from the fluid circuit via the second heat transfer circuit, the heating circuit being a heat storage device of the HVACR system.

[0080] Aspect 7. The HVACR system according to any one of Aspects 1 to 6, the HVACR system further comprising: a flow control device, the controller being further configured to control the flow control device when the operating parameter is higher than the first threshold, so as to direct fluid flow from the fluid loop to the heat exchanger.

[0081] Aspect 8. The HVACR system according to aspect 7, wherein the controller is further configured to control the flow control device to direct fluid flow from the fluid loop to the heat exchanger when the operating parameter is below a second threshold.

[0082] Aspect 9. The HVACR system according to aspect 8, wherein the controller is further configured to control the flow control device to block fluid flow from the fluid loop to the heat exchanger when the operating parameter is equal to or lower than the first threshold and equal to or higher than the second threshold.

[0083] Aspect 10. The HVACR system according to any one of Aspects 1 to 9, wherein the operating parameter is the temperature of the fluid flow downstream of the first heat transfer loop and upstream of the second heat transfer loop.

[0084] Aspect 11. A method of operating a heating, ventilation, air conditioning, and refrigeration (HVACR) system, the HVACR system including a first heat transfer loop, a second heat transfer loop, a fluid loop located between the first heat transfer loop and the second heat transfer loop, a heat exchanger, and a controller, the heat exchanger being connected to the fluid loop, the method comprising: determining operating parameters of the HVACR system; and when the operating parameters are higher than the first threshold, controlling the heat exchanger to remove heat from the fluid loop.

[0085] Aspect 12. The method according to aspect 11, the method further comprising: when the operating parameter is below a second threshold, controlling the heat exchanger to add heat to the fluid circuit.

[0086] Aspect 13. The method according to aspect 11 or aspect 12, wherein the first heat transfer circuit includes a fluid inlet and a fluid outlet, the fluid inlet being configured to receive fluid from the fluid circuit, the fluid outlet being configured to allow fluid to flow out of the fluid circuit, and the first heat transfer circuit being configured to add heat to the fluid circuit.

[0087] Aspect 14. The method according to any one of Aspects 11 to 13, wherein the HVACR system further includes a cooling circuit configured to add heat to the fluid circuit via the first heat transfer circuit, the cooling circuit being a heat source for the HVACR system.

[0088] Aspect 15. The method according to any one of Aspects 11 to 14, wherein the second heat transfer circuit includes a fluid inlet and a fluid outlet, the fluid inlet being configured to receive fluid from the fluid circuit, the fluid outlet being configured to allow fluid to flow out of the fluid circuit, and the second heat transfer circuit being configured to remove heat from the fluid circuit.

[0089] Aspect 16. The method according to any one of Aspects 11 to 15, wherein the HVACR system further includes a heating circuit configured to remove heat from the fluid circuit via the second heat transfer circuit, the heating circuit being a heat storage device of the HVACR system.

[0090] Aspect 17. The method according to any one of Aspects 11 to 16, wherein the HVACR system further includes a flow control device, and the method further includes: controlling the flow control device to direct fluid flow from the fluid loop to the heat exchanger when the operating parameter is higher than the first threshold.

[0091] Aspect 18. The method according to aspect 17, the method further comprising: controlling the flow control device when the operating parameter is below a second threshold to direct fluid flow from the fluid loop to the heat exchanger.

[0092] Aspect 19. The method according to aspect 18, the method further comprising: controlling the flow control device to block fluid flow from the fluid loop to the heat exchanger when the operating parameter is equal to or lower than the first threshold and equal to or higher than the second threshold.

[0093] Aspect 20. The method according to any one of Aspects 11 to 19, wherein the operating parameter is the temperature of the fluid flow downstream of the first heat transfer loop and upstream of the second heat transfer loop.

[0094] The terminology used in this specification is intended to describe particular embodiments and is not intended to be limiting. Unless otherwise expressly indicated, the terms “a,” “an,” and “the,” “the,” and “the” also include the plural forms. When used in this specification, the terms “comprising” and / or “including,” “containing,” specify the presence of the stated feature, integer, step, operation, element, and / or component, but do not exclude the presence or addition of one or more other features, integers, steps, operations, elements, and / or components.

[0095] Regarding the foregoing description, it should be understood that changes may be made in detail, particularly in terms of the construction materials used, and the shape, size, and arrangement of components, without departing from the scope of this disclosure. This specification and the described embodiments are merely exemplary, and the true scope and spirit of this disclosure are indicated by the appended claims.

Claims

1. A heating, ventilation, air conditioning, and cooling (HVACR) system, said HVACR system comprising: First heat transfer loop; Second heat transfer loop; A fluid circuit, wherein the fluid circuit is located between the first heat transfer circuit and the second heat transfer circuit; A heat exchanger, the heat exchanger being connected to the fluid circuit; and Controller The controller is configured to: Determine the operating parameters of the system; and When the operating parameters are higher than a first threshold, the heat exchanger is controlled to remove heat from the fluid circuit.

2. The HVACR system according to claim 1, wherein, The controller is also configured to control the heat exchanger to add heat to the fluid loop when the operating parameter is below a second threshold.

3. The HVACR system according to claim 1, wherein, The first heat transfer loop includes a fluid inlet and a fluid outlet, the fluid inlet being configured to receive fluid from the fluid loop, and the fluid outlet being configured to allow fluid to flow out of the fluid loop. The first heat transfer loop is configured to add heat to the fluid loop.

4. The HVACR system according to claim 3, further comprising: A cooling circuit configured to add heat to the fluid circuit via the first heat transfer circuit, the cooling circuit being the heat source of the HVACR system.

5. The HVACR system according to claim 1, wherein, The second heat transfer loop includes a fluid inlet and a fluid outlet, the fluid inlet being configured to receive fluid from the fluid loop, and the fluid outlet being configured to allow fluid to flow out of the fluid loop. The second heat transfer loop is configured to remove heat from the fluid loop.

6. The HVACR system according to claim 5, further comprising: A heating circuit configured to remove heat from the fluid circuit via a second heat transfer circuit, the heating circuit being a heat storage device of the HVACR system.

7. The HVACR system according to claim 1, further comprising: Flow control device The controller is also configured to control the flow control device when the operating parameter is higher than the first threshold, so as to guide the fluid flow from the fluid loop to the heat exchanger.

8. The HVACR system according to claim 7, wherein, The controller is also configured to control the flow control device when the operating parameter is below a second threshold, so as to direct the fluid flow from the fluid loop to the heat exchanger.

9. The HVACR system according to claim 8, wherein, The controller is also configured to control the flow control device to block fluid flow from the fluid loop to the heat exchanger when the operating parameter is equal to or lower than the first threshold and equal to or higher than the second threshold.

10. The HVACR system according to claim 1, wherein, The operating parameters are the temperatures of the fluid flows downstream of the first heat transfer loop and upstream of the second heat transfer loop.

11. A method of operating a heating, ventilation, air conditioning, and refrigeration (HVACR) system, the HVACR system including a first heat transfer loop, a second heat transfer loop, a fluid loop located between the first heat transfer loop and the second heat transfer loop, a heat exchanger connected to the fluid loop, and a controller, the method comprising: Determine the operating parameters of the HVACR system; and When the operating parameters are higher than a first threshold, the heat exchanger is controlled to remove heat from the fluid circuit.

12. The method according to claim 11, further comprising: When the operating parameters are below the second threshold, the heat exchanger is controlled to add heat to the fluid circuit.

13. The method according to claim 11, wherein, The first heat transfer circuit includes a fluid inlet and a fluid outlet, the fluid inlet being configured to receive fluid from the fluid circuit, and the fluid outlet being configured to allow fluid to flow out of the fluid circuit. The first heat transfer loop is configured to add heat to the fluid loop.

14. The method according to claim 13, wherein, The HVACR system also includes a cooling circuit configured to add heat to the fluid circuit via the first heat transfer circuit, the cooling circuit being the heat source of the HVACR system.

15. The method according to claim 11, wherein, The second heat transfer loop includes a fluid inlet and a fluid outlet, the fluid inlet being configured to receive fluid from the fluid loop, and the fluid outlet being configured to allow fluid to flow out of the fluid loop. The second heat transfer loop is configured to remove heat from the fluid loop.

16. The method according to claim 15, wherein, The HVACR system also includes a heating circuit configured to remove heat from the fluid circuit via a second heat transfer circuit, the heating circuit being a heat storage device for the HVACR system.

17. The method according to claim 11, wherein, The HVACR system also includes a flow control device. The method further includes: when the operating parameter is higher than the first threshold, controlling the flow control device to guide the fluid flow from the fluid loop to the heat exchanger.

18. The method according to claim 17, further comprising: When the operating parameters are below a second threshold, the flow control device is controlled to direct the fluid flow from the fluid loop to the heat exchanger.

19. The method according to claim 18, further comprising: When the operating parameter is equal to or lower than the first threshold and equal to or higher than the second threshold, the flow control device is controlled to block the fluid flow from the fluid loop to the heat exchanger.

20. The method according to claim 11, wherein, The operating parameters are the temperatures of the fluid flows downstream of the first heat transfer loop and upstream of the second heat transfer loop.

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