Refrigerant system architecture
By adopting a separate enclosure design and insulated electrical connections in the refrigeration system, the safety risks and difficulties in leak detection caused by refrigerant and electrical components being housed together in an enclosure are solved, achieving safer and more efficient operation of the refrigerant system.
Patent Information
- Authority / Receiving Office
- CN · China
- Patent Type
- Applications(China)
- Current Assignee / Owner
- CARRIER CORP
- Filing Date
- 2026-01-30
- Publication Date
- 2026-07-31
AI Technical Summary
In existing refrigeration systems, refrigerant and electrical components are housed together in a sealed enclosure, posing safety risks and making leak detection difficult.
The refrigerant circuit and electrical components are encapsulated in separate enclosures using a separate enclosure design. The electrical components are located at a higher position to prevent refrigerant leakage and are connected via insulated electrical cables. Sensors can quickly detect leaks.
This improves system safety and the timeliness of leak detection, reduces the risk of fire caused by refrigerant leaks, and ensures efficient system operation.
Smart Images
Figure CN122486293A_ABST
Abstract
Description
[0001] Cross-references to related applications This patent application claims the benefit of U.S. Provisional Patent Application No. 63 / 751883, filed January 31, 2025, which is incorporated herein by reference in its entirety. Background Technology
[0002] This disclosure relates to the field of heat pumps and coolers, and more specifically to refrigerant system architecture. Summary of the Invention
[0003] This document describes an (air-cooled) refrigerant system having a first enclosure including a refrigerant circuit configured to circulate a process fluid, wherein at least a portion of the refrigerant circuit is arranged to pass through a heat exchanger configured to exchange heat with the process fluid. The refrigerant system also includes a second enclosure including one or more electrical components configured to supply power to and / or control the refrigerant circuit, wherein the second enclosure is fluidly and hermetically separated from the first enclosure.
[0004] In one or more embodiments, the second enclosure is positioned at a higher height than the first enclosure.
[0005] In one or more embodiments, the heat exchanger is placed outside the first enclosure, and wherein the heat exchanger includes a fan configured to allow air to flow through the heat exchanger to exchange heat between the process fluid and ambient air.
[0006] In one or more embodiments, the fan is positioned along a vent in the heat exchanger, which is adjacent to a first and a second enclosure.
[0007] In one or more embodiments, the path defined by the vent is configured to guide the airflow caused by the fan in a direction away from the second enclosure.
[0008] In one or more embodiments, the heat exchanger includes a round tube and plate-fin (RTPF) heat exchanger or a microchannel heat exchanger (MCHE).
[0009] In one or more embodiments, the heat exchanger has any or a combination of the following: V-shaped geometry, W-shaped geometry, C-shaped geometry, and vertical coil geometry.
[0010] In one or more embodiments, the refrigerant circuit is configured to use a compressor to circulate the process fluid through a heat exchanger, and then circulate the process fluid from the heat exchanger back to the compressor via an expansion device within a first enclosure.
[0011] In one or more embodiments, the refrigerant system further includes one or more connectors configured to hermetically connect a refrigerant circuit disposed between the first housing and the heat exchanger.
[0012] In one or more embodiments, the refrigerant system further includes a reversible pump coupled to the refrigerant circuit to control the flow of process fluid to switch between a heating mode and / or a cooling mode of the refrigerant circuit.
[0013] In one or more embodiments, the process fluid is a refrigerant fluid selected from any one or a combination of the following: A2L, A2, A3, B2, and B3 refrigerant fluids.
[0014] In one or more embodiments, one or more electrical components include any one or a combination of the following: a controller, a variable frequency drive (VFD), one or more switches, and one or more energy storage devices.
[0015] In one or more embodiments, the first enclosure includes a condensate drain configured to discharge process fluids out of the first enclosure.
[0016] In one or more embodiments, one or more electrical components are electrically connected to one or more mechanical components of the refrigerant circuit via one or more electrical cables passing through one or more electrical connectors disposed on at least one wall of the first enclosure, and one or more of the electrical cables are insulated from the air within the first enclosure.
[0017] In one or more embodiments, one or more electrical connectors include spring terminal connectors.
[0018] In one or more embodiments, one or more electrical cables are connected to one or more electrical connectors and / or one or more mechanical components via corresponding cable joints.
[0019] In one or more embodiments, the first enclosure includes another heat exchanger configured to exchange heat with a refrigerant circuit within the first enclosure.
[0020] In one or more embodiments, another heat exchanger is configured to exchange heat with a water loop configured to allow water to circulate through it.
[0021] In one or more embodiments, one or more sensors are disposed in the first enclosure and configured to detect the presence of process fluid in the air within the first enclosure.
[0022] This document describes a cooler including a refrigerant circuit and a second enclosure. The refrigerant circuit is configured to circulate process fluid through a compressor to a heat exchanger. At least a portion of the refrigerant circuit is configured to allow process fluid to flow through the heat exchanger, which is configured to dissipate heat from the process fluid passing through the heat exchanger. The second enclosure includes one or more electrical components configured to supply power to the refrigerant circuit and / or control the refrigerant circuit, wherein the second enclosure is fluidly sealed away from a first enclosure.
[0023] The foregoing overview is merely illustrative and is not intended to be limiting in any way. Other aspects, embodiments, features, and techniques of this disclosure will become clearer from the following description taken in conjunction with the figures, in addition to the exemplary aspects, embodiments, features, and techniques described above. Attached Figure Description
[0024] The accompanying drawings are included to provide a further understanding of this disclosure and are incorporated in and constitute a part of this specification. The drawings illustrate exemplary embodiments of this disclosure and, together with the description, serve to explain the principles of this disclosure.
[0025] In the figures, similar components and / or features may have the same reference numerals. Furthermore, various components of the same type can be distinguished by following the reference numeral with a second numeral to differentiate similar components. If only the first reference numeral is used in the specification, the description applies to any similar component having the same first reference numeral, regardless of the second reference numeral.
[0026] Figure 1A and 1B A perspective view of an exemplary refrigerant system according to one or more embodiments of the present disclosure is shown.
[0027] Figure 2 An enlarged view of a portion of a refrigerant system according to one or more embodiments of the present disclosure is shown.
[0028] Figure 3A A separate view is shown of a connector for a passageway on the wall of a first enclosure of a refrigerant system that is hermetically sealed according to one or more embodiments of the present disclosure.
[0029] Figure 3B A separate view is shown of another connector on the wall of a first enclosure of a refrigerant system that is hermetically sealed according to one or more embodiments of the present disclosure.
[0030] Figure 3C and Figure 3D Separate views of a first plate and a second plate of a connector according to one or more embodiments of the present disclosure are shown.
[0031] Figure 4A separate view of a first enclosure according to one or more embodiments of the present disclosure is shown, the first enclosure having electrical connections to mechanical components associated with a refrigerant circuit of a refrigerant system.
[0032] Figure 5 A piping circuit diagram of a refrigerant circuit according to one or more embodiments of the present disclosure is shown. Detailed Implementation
[0033] The following is a detailed description of embodiments of the present disclosure depicted in the accompanying drawings. The embodiments are described in such detail so as to clearly convey the present disclosure. However, the amount of detail provided is not intended to limit contemplative variations of the embodiments; rather, it is intended to cover all modifications, equivalents, and alternatives falling within the spirit and scope of the present disclosure as defined by the appended claims.
[0034] Various terms are used herein. If a term used in a claim is not defined below, it shall be given the broadest definition that has been given to a person skilled in the art as reflected in printed publications and published patents at the time of filing.
[0035] In this specification, when the apparatus is depicted in the accompanying drawings, reference may be made to the spatial relationships between the various components and the spatial orientation of various aspects of the components. However, as will be recognized by those skilled in the art upon a complete reading of this disclosure, the components described herein can be positioned in any desired orientation. Therefore, the use of terms such as “above,” “below,” “upper,” “lower,” “first,” “second,” “beside,” “adjacent,” “inner,” “outer,” etc., describing the spatial relationships between the various components or describing the spatial orientation of aspects of these components, should be understood as describing the relative relationships between the components or the spatial orientation of aspects of these components, since the components described herein can be oriented in any desired direction.
[0036] A refrigeration system is a heating / cooling system that facilitates the dissipation of heat from a process fluid or refrigerant fluid into ambient air. Refrigeration systems can be used to cool and / or heat a defined volume of fluid (such as within a chamber or shell of a cooler). In air-cooled refrigeration systems, heat absorbed by the refrigerant can be cooled or dissipated into ambient air. Refrigeration systems can operate as heat pumps and / or coolers in a variety of residential, industrial, and commercial applications.
[0037] Conventional refrigeration system architectures house refrigerant / mechanical components and electrical components in the same area / space / enclosure, or close to each other. Placing mechanical and electrical components in the same enclosure or close to each other requires careful planning to ensure efficient operation, safety (preventing refrigerant ignition), and maintainability. However, inadequate ventilation, lack of safety procedures, and non-compliance with regulations can lead to safety risks associated with refrigerant handling and electrical systems. For example, in a conventional refrigeration system architecture, in the event of a refrigerant leak from a mechanical component circulating the refrigerant, the proximity of electrical components to mechanical components poses a ignition risk, assuming the electrical components have the potential to ignite the refrigerant. Furthermore, due to refrigerant dilution in the air within the space or enclosure where mechanical and electrical components may be located, refrigerant leaks may be difficult to detect using sensors, leading to delayed or undetected leaks. This situation can further increase the risk of refrigerant ignition.
[0038] Clearly, an improved refrigeration system architecture is needed to effectively address at least the challenges mentioned above in conventional refrigeration systems. This architecture should improve the efficiency of the refrigerant cycle and ensure better safety, performance, and sustainability.
[0039] refer to Figures 1A to 1B A refrigerant system 102 is disclosed. Specifically, Figure 1A An assembly view of the refrigerant system 102 is shown, and Figure 1B A view of a refrigerant system 102 is shown, with the walls of its enclosure removed to reveal the internal components of the refrigerant system 102. The refrigerant system 102 may include a refrigerant circuit 104 configured to circulate process fluid / refrigerant fluid. The refrigerant circuit 104 may include one or more mechanical components that drive / pump the refrigerant fluid / process fluid through the refrigerant circuit. In one or more embodiments, the refrigerant system 102 may include a first enclosure 106 that houses the refrigerant circuit 104. Furthermore, the refrigerant system 102 may include a second enclosure 114 that includes / houses one or more electrical components.
[0040] Refrigerant circuit 104 may be configured to circulate a process fluid / refrigerant fluid (hereinafter referred to as refrigerant fluid) through it. Refrigerant circuit 104 may define a route / path for the circulation of the refrigerant fluid. This path may be defined by a set of pipes / tubes forming a closed loop for the circulation of the refrigerant fluid. The pipes may be connected to mechanical components (such as compressor 118, valves, expansion valves / devices, sensors, heat exchangers, etc., but not limited to) that handle and / or operate the refrigerant fluid to drive / pump / circulate the refrigerant fluid through refrigerant circuit 104. The refrigerant fluid may be any or a combination of the following: A2L, A2, A3, B2, B3 refrigerant fluids, etc., but not limited to. For example, the refrigerant fluid may be propane, which, according to Standard 34 of the American Society of Heating, Refrigerating and Air-Conditioning Engineers (ASHRAE), is an A3 class refrigerant fluid.
[0041] In one or more embodiments, the first enclosure 106 may include a compressor 118 to compress the refrigerant fluid as it circulates through the refrigerant circuit 104 to increase its temperature and pressure. In one or more embodiments, the refrigerant circuit 104 may also be arranged to pass through a heat exchanger 108. The heat exchanger 108 may be located downstream of the compressor 118 and may allow the refrigerant fluid to release heat to the ambient air. Furthermore, other mechanical components such as expansion devices, plate heat exchangers (or, for example, evaporators) may be located downstream of the heat exchanger 108 along the refrigerant circuit 104. In one or more embodiments, the first enclosure 106 may also be hermetically sealed to prevent air or any other fluid from entering and / or leaving the first enclosure 106. In one or more embodiments, the first enclosure 106 may be formed of one or more walls reversibly connected by a corresponding set of attachment means. Attachment means may be, but are not limited to, screws, nails, rivets, adhesives, interlocking structures, hooks, grooved fasteners, clamps, welds, etc. Attachment means may allow reversible assembly and disassembly. For example, the attachment means can be removed for disassembly (e.g., for maintenance purposes) and then reassembled. Sealing elements (such as gaskets, O-rings, etc.) can be placed at the edges and / or gaps between adjacent walls and / or at the attachment means to fluidly seal the first enclosure 106. In one or more embodiments, the first enclosure 106 may include a condensate drain configured to discharge refrigerant fluid from the first enclosure 106.
[0042] In one or more embodiments, the heat exchanger 108 may be placed outside the first enclosure 106. The refrigerant circuit 104 may be routed through the heat exchanger 108 via a pipe exiting and re-entering the first enclosure 106. Although the first enclosure 106 is hermetically sealable, the refrigerant circuit 104 may be routed via corresponding connections on the walls of the first enclosure 106 (e.g., ...). Figures 3A to 3DThe refrigerant circuit 104 is further arranged to pass through the heat exchanger 108 (as shown in the diagram). Although the opening / passage is defined to allow the refrigerant circuit 104 to circulate refrigerant fluid to the external heat exchanger 108, it may include a seal around the refrigerant circuit 104 to prevent fluid communication between the first enclosure 106 and ambient air.
[0043] In one or more embodiments, the heat exchanger 108 may include a fan 110 configured to direct airflow through the heat exchanger 108 to exchange heat between the refrigerant fluid and the flowing air. For example, the air flowing through the heat exchanger 108 may absorb heat from the refrigerant fluid circulating through the heat exchanger 108, thereby cooling the refrigerant fluid and preparing it for a subsequent heat pump / cooling cycle. In one or more embodiments, the fan 110 may draw in air from a lower height and push / direct the drawn-in air to a higher height. The fan 110 may be positioned along a vent 112 of the heat exchanger 108. The vent 112 may be positioned near the first enclosure 106 and the second enclosure 114. The above embodiments describe an "air-cooled" refrigerant system 102.
[0044] In one or more embodiments, the refrigerant system 102 may be "water-cooled". In such embodiments, the heat exchanger 108 may include a water circuit configured to cool the refrigerant fluid flowing through the heat exchanger 108 and to exchange heat between the refrigerant fluid and the water flowing through it.
[0045] In one or more embodiments, the heat exchanger 108 may be a tube-and-plate-fin (RTPF) heat exchanger (having one or more RTPF plates), or a microchannel heat exchanger (MCHE), but is not limited thereto. The RTPF plates may be positioned along the length of the vent 112. The heat exchanger 108 may have any or a combination of the following: V-shaped geometry, W-shaped geometry, C-shaped geometry, vertical coil geometry, etc., but is not limited thereto. For example, at least two of the one or more RTPF heat exchanger plates may be configured in a substantially V-shaped arrangement, and thus also provide a vent 112 with a substantially V-shaped profile. The V-shaped arrangement allows the refrigerant fluid to release heat to the ambient air over a larger surface area when the refrigerant fluid is exposed to ambient air.
[0046] In one or more embodiments, the second enclosure 114 may include one or more electrical components configured to supply power to and / or control the refrigerant circuit 104. The second enclosure 114 may be fluidly sealed away from the first enclosure 106. In one or more embodiments, the second enclosure 114 may be an hermetically sealed container preventing air or any other fluid from entering and / or leaving the second enclosure 114. In one or more embodiments, the second enclosure 114 may be formed of one or more walls reversibly connected to each other by a set of attachment means. Sealing elements (such as gaskets, O-rings, etc.) may be placed at edges and / or gaps and / or attachment means between adjacent walls to fluidly seal the second enclosure 114. In other embodiments, the second enclosure 114 may include passageways for air / fluid flow, such as for cooling electrical components therein.
[0047] One or more electrical components may include any or a combination of the following: controllers, variable frequency drive (VFD) motors, one or more switches, one or more energy storage devices, etc., but are not limited to these. Such electrical components can be classified as ignition sources, i.e., sources that could ignite the refrigerant if it is directly exposed to the electrical component. When refrigerant fluid is directly exposed to an electrical component, the electrical component may ignite the refrigerant fluid or its leakage during operation, attributable to heat generation or the generation of sparks. In one or more embodiments, the second enclosure 114 may be positioned at a higher height than the first enclosure 106. Placing the second enclosure 114 above or at a higher height than the first enclosure 106 prevents refrigerant fluid from entering the second enclosure 114 in the event of refrigerant fluid leakage and / or spillage, as refrigerant fluid can be heavier than air. Refrigerant fluid may deposit within the first enclosure 106, thereby minimizing the risk of leaked refrigerant fluid being ignited by one or more electrical components. In one or more embodiments, the second enclosure 114 may be positioned above and supported on the first enclosure 106. In such embodiments, the second enclosure 114 may share a common wall with the first enclosure 106. In other embodiments, the second enclosure 114 may be positioned away from the first enclosure 106.
[0048] In one or more embodiments, the refrigerant system 102 may be configured to operate in either a cooling mode or a heating mode. In heating mode, the refrigerant system 102 may operate as a heat pump to provide heat to the surrounding environment via a heat pump cycle and absorb heat from the heat exchanger 108. In cooling mode, the refrigerant system 102 may operate as a cooler to transfer heat from a refrigerated space to the surrounding environment via the heat exchanger 108. In one or more embodiments, the refrigerant system 102 may include a reversible pump coupled to the refrigerant circuit 104. The reversible pump may be configured to control the flow of refrigerant fluid through the refrigerant circuit 104 to switch between a heating mode and / or a cooling mode of the refrigerant circuit 104.
[0049] Additionally, other mechanical components, such as the expansion device, can reduce the temperature and pressure of the refrigerant fluid, allowing it to expand and partially vaporize. Furthermore, another heat exchanger downstream of the expansion device can allow the refrigerant fluid to absorb heat from a defined volume space (such as a chamber within the internal shell of a cooler) or from a fluid to be cooled (such as air or water).
[0050] In one or more embodiments, the first enclosure 106 may include another heat exchanger. This other heat exchanger may be configured to exchange heat with the refrigerant circuit 104 within the first enclosure 106. The other heat exchanger may include any or a combination of brazed plate heat exchangers, shell-and-tube submerged heat exchangers, direct expansion heat exchangers, etc., but is not limited thereto. In some embodiments, the first enclosure 106 may include a brazed plate heat exchanger 116 configured to exchange heat from the refrigerant circuit 104 within the first enclosure 106 with another circuit arranged through the brazed plate heat exchanger 116. In one or more embodiments, the brazed plate heat exchanger 116 may be configured to exchange heat with a water circuit configured to circulate water through it. Water in the water circuit may exchange heat with the refrigerant fluid in the refrigerant circuit 104 via the brazed plate heat exchanger 116. The water circulation system may further circulate through another chamber or enclosure for heating and / or cooling. Water circuits can enter and exit the first housing 106 through corresponding openings on the first housing 106. Openings or pipes corresponding to the other circuits can be sealed to prevent fluid communication between the first housing 106 and ambient air (e.g., through gaps between the pipe and the wall of the first housing 106), thereby preventing refrigerant fluid leakage from the first housing.
[0051] In one or more embodiments, one or more sensors (not shown) may be disposed within the first enclosure 106. The sensors may be configured to detect the presence of refrigerant fluid in the air within the first enclosure 106. Because the first enclosure 106 is fluidly sealed away from ambient air (or any other fluid), dilution of leaked refrigerant fluid is prevented, and leaked refrigerant may accumulate within the first enclosure 106, allowing the sensors to detect refrigerant fluid leaks more quickly. If a leak occurs or the refrigerant fluid level becomes abnormal, the sensors may detect the anomaly and trigger an alarm. In one or more embodiments, operation of the refrigerant system 102 may be stopped upon detection of a leak.
[0052] refer to Figure 2 An enlarged view 150 of a portion of the refrigerant system 102 is shown. Figure 2 To illustrate the layout of the refrigerant circuit 104, the wall of the first housing 106 is concealed. As shown, the refrigerant circuit 104 may be implemented as a set of pipes arranged to pass through mechanical components (such as compressor 118 and brazed plate heat exchanger 116) within the first housing 106. In one or more embodiments, when the heat exchanger 108 is positioned outside the first housing 106, at least some of the pipes in the refrigerant circuit 104 may pass through passages defined in the wall of the first housing 106. In one or more embodiments, the refrigerant circuit 104 may include connectors at the passages (such as...). Figures 3A to 3D As shown in the diagram, this allows refrigerant fluid to flow through the heat exchanger 108 (i.e., outside the first enclosure 106). Additionally, the refrigerant circuit 104 may include another pipe passing through another / corresponding passage / connector, which allows refrigerant fluid to flow back into the pipe of the refrigerant circuit 104 inside the first enclosure 106. Figure 2 Arrows are used to indicate the direction of refrigerant fluid flow.
[0053] refer to Figures 3A to 3D A separate view of connectors 302 and 304 is shown. In one or more embodiments, connectors 302 and 304 may be provided at each passage / opening through which the pipe of refrigerant circuit 104 passes through the wall of the first housing 106, for pumping refrigerant fluid to or receiving refrigerant fluid from heat exchanger 108, respectively. Connectors 302 and 304 may be configured to seal the passages to hermetically seal the first housing 106. In one or more embodiments, the connectors may be used to rotate / engage one or more plates on opposite sides of the wall (such as screws, nuts, rivets, etc.) by means of the rotation / engagement of attachment elements 305 (such as screws, nuts, rivets, etc.). Figure 3C and Figure 3DThe plates 306 and 308 shown are clamped or closed, but not limited to this. Attachment element 305 may be configured to secure the plate to the wall. The use of attachment element 305 may also allow connectors 302 and 304 to be optionally detached for disassembly, such as for maintenance. Furthermore, a sealing element may be placed between the plate and the wall to further ensure an airtight seal. In one or more embodiments, the plate may include reserved structures (such as...) Figure 3C and Figure 3D As shown in the reserved structure 310, the tubes of the refrigerant circuit 104 can pass through these reserved structures through the plate. Alternatively, in some embodiments, the plate may include reserved structures 310 (such as holes or cavities in the plate) through which refrigerant can flow. In such embodiments, the tubes of the refrigerant circuit 104 may be brazed to the plate at the reserved structure 310. Refrigerant can flow through tubes on one side of the wall of the first enclosure 106, through the reserved structure 310 in the plate, and then through tubes on the other side of the wall of the first enclosure 106.
[0054] In one or more embodiments, the plates (such as plates 306 and 308) may be secured using a plurality of attachment elements 305. Figure 3A In the illustrated embodiment, the plate of connector 302 can be secured using two attachment elements 305. The attachment elements 305 pass through holes in the plate to secure it to the refrigerant circuit 104 passing through connector 302. The attachment elements 305 and / or corresponding holes can be positioned on opposite sides of the plate relative to the refrigerant circuit 104.
[0055] exist Figure 3B In the illustrated embodiment, the plate of connector 304 may be secured using three attachment elements 305. Connector 304 may include plates 306 and 308. The attachment elements 305 may be equidistant from each other and from the refrigerant circuit 104 passing through connector 304. Therefore, in some embodiments, plates 306 and 308 may include a substantially triangular geometry. The shape of plates 306 and 308 and the arrangement of attachment elements 305 provide an improved, reliable, and hermetic seal.
[0056] refer to Figure 4 A separate view of a first housing 106 is shown, which has electrical connections from electrical components to mechanical components associated with the refrigerant circuit 104. As described, electrical components in a second housing 114 can be electrically connected to mechanical components of the refrigerant circuit 104 (such as compressor 118, expander, etc.). The electrical components can be connected to the mechanical components via one or more electrical cables passing through one or more electrical connectors disposed on at least one wall (not shown) of the first housing 106. In one or more embodiments, the wall can separate the first housing 106 and the second housing 114, and the second housing 114 may include electrical connectors ( Figure 4(Illustrated as 402). The electrical connector may include a spring terminal connector. The spring terminal connector provides electrical pathways for electrically connecting electrical components and mechanical components. The electrical components may use the electrical connector to power and / or control the mechanical components (by transmitting control signals). The electrical components may be connected from the outside of the first housing 106 to the outer electrical connector / spring terminal connector, while the mechanical components associated with the refrigerant circuit 104 may be electrically connected from the inside of the first housing 106 to the electrical connector / spring terminal connector via electrical cables.
[0057] In one or more embodiments, the electrical cable between the mechanical component and the electrical connector may be insulated from the air within the first enclosure 106. Insulating the electrical cable can prevent the ignition of the refrigerant fluid by preventing direct contact or exposure to leaked refrigerant fluid within the first enclosure 106, thereby preventing the risk of electrical accidents.
[0058] In one or more embodiments, the electrical cables can be connected to electrical connectors and / or mechanical components via corresponding cable joints to ensure airtightness between the refrigerant fluid in the first enclosure 106 and the mechanical components at the connection / joint point of the electrical cables. The cable joints securely attach and seal the ends of the electrical cables while maintaining their integrity and ensuring safety. The use of insulation and cable joints prevents the electrical cables from being directly exposed to air within the first enclosure 106, thereby also preventing the refrigerant fluid from igniting in the event of a leak.
[0059] refer to Figure 5 A schematic diagram of a refrigerant circuit 104 is shown. In one or more embodiments, the refrigerant circuit 104 may include a high-pressure circuit 502 (implemented as a set of pipes) connecting a heat exchanger 108 and a compressor 118. The compressor 118 may increase the pressure of the refrigerant fluid in the high-pressure circuit 502. Furthermore, the high-pressure circuit 502 may connect a brazed plate heat exchanger 116 to the compressor 118. In one or more embodiments, the refrigerant fluid may be in a gaseous / vapor state in the high-pressure circuit 502. In one or more embodiments, the compressor 118 may be arranged to operate using a completely gaseous refrigerant or using a two-phase refrigerant having a mixture of liquid and gas phases. The brazed plate heat exchanger 116 may be configured to exchange heat with a water circuit 510 configured to circulate water through it. The brazed plate heat exchanger 116 may be configured to absorb heat from the space or fluid to be cooled, or from other fluids (such as water) circulating through the water circuit 510. In cooling mode, the refrigerant fluid can evaporate from liquid to low-pressure gas as it absorbs heat from the water circuit 510.
[0060] In one or more embodiments, the heat exchanger 108 may be located outside a first enclosure 106, which may house the compressor 118, the brazed plate heat exchanger 116, and the high-pressure circuit 502. Furthermore, the heat exchanger 108 may include a fan 512 (such as fan 110) configured to direct airflow through the heat exchanger 108 to facilitate heat exchange between the refrigerant fluid and the air. In one or more embodiments, the heat exchanger 108 may be configured to draw air from the surrounding environment for heat exchange with the refrigerant fluid. In one or more embodiments, the heat exchanger 108 may cool the refrigerant fluid, causing it to change from a gaseous / vapor state to a liquid state.
[0061] In one or more embodiments, a low-pressure circuit 514 may connect heat exchanger 108 to brazed plate heat exchanger 116. Low-pressure circuit 514 may include an expansion device 504 configured to expand or reduce the pressure of the refrigerant fluid. The low-pressure refrigerant fluid may then pass through the brazed plate heat exchanger to cool a fluid (such as air or water) that defines a volume / space and / or circulates through water circuit 510. The refrigerant fluid may evaporate and undergo a phase change due to absorbing heat from the volume or fluid / water. Compressor 118 may then compress the refrigerant fluid, and the process continues. In one or more embodiments, compressor 118 may also be connected to oil circuit 508. Oil circuit 508 may be used for lubrication, contaminant removal, cooling compressor 118, etc., but is not limited thereto.
[0062] Although the refrigerant circuit 104 may be configured to absorb heat from the brazed plate heat exchanger 116 and dissipate heat through the heat exchanger 108 in cooling mode, it is appreciated that the refrigerant circuit 104 may be suitably adapted to dissipate heat to the brazed plate heat exchanger 116 and absorb heat from the heat exchanger 108 in heating mode. Furthermore, the refrigerant circuit 104 may include other components, such as temperature and pressure sensors, moisture condensation level indicators, pressure relief valves, control valves, etc., but is not limited thereto.
[0063] Furthermore, as described, the electrical components may be configured to power and / or control the mechanical components connected to the refrigerant cycle. For example, the electronic components may power the compressor 118 and also (using control signals) control the flow rate of refrigerant fluid through the refrigerant circuit 104. The electronic components may be powered, send control signals, and / or receive sensor data via electrical cables (and using cable connectors) connected to electrical connectors. The electrical cables may be insulated to prevent accidental ignition, such as in the event of a leak. Furthermore, because the first enclosure 106 is fluidly sealed away from ambient air, sensors that detect the presence of refrigerant fluid in the air may be more sensitive and may be able to detect leaks earlier. Finally, placing the second enclosure 114, which houses the electronic components, at a higher height or away from the first enclosure 106 prevents refrigerant fluid from entering the second enclosure 114 (e.g., in the event of a leak from the refrigerant circuit 104), as the refrigerant fluid, being heavier than air, may deposit within the first enclosure 106, thereby further enhancing safety.
[0064] Therefore, this disclosure overcomes the shortcomings, limitations, and deficiencies of existing conventional refrigeration systems by providing an improved and effective solution that prevents heat generated by the refrigerant fluid from dissipating away from one or more electrical components of the refrigerant circuit constructed in the second enclosure. This minimizes the risk of proximity between the flammable refrigerant fluid and one or more electrical components of the refrigerant circuit, and also contains the refrigerant fluid within the first enclosure in the event of a leak.
[0065] Although this disclosure has been described with reference to exemplary embodiments, it will be understood by those skilled in the art that various changes may be made and equivalents may be substituted for elements therein without departing from the scope of this disclosure as defined by the appended claims. Modifications may be made to adapt particular situations or materials to the teachings of this disclosure without departing from the scope of this disclosure. Therefore, this disclosure is intended to be limited to the specific embodiments disclosed, but rather to include all embodiments falling within the scope of this disclosure as defined by the appended claims.
[0066] In interpreting this specification, all terms shall be interpreted in the broadest possible sense, consistent with the context. In particular, the terms “comprising” and “including” shall be interpreted as referring to an element, component, or step in a non-exclusive manner, indicating that the referenced element, component, or step may be present, used, or combined with other elements, components, or steps not expressly referenced. Where a claim in the specification relates to at least one of the set selected from A, B, C, ..., and N, the text shall be interpreted as requiring only one element from the set, rather than A plus N, or B plus N, etc.
Claims
1. A refrigerant system, comprising: A first enclosure includes a refrigerant circuit configured to circulate a process fluid, wherein at least a portion of the refrigerant circuit is arranged to pass through a heat exchanger configured to exchange heat with the process fluid. as well as A second enclosure includes one or more electrical components configured to supply power to and / or control the refrigerant circuit, wherein the second enclosure is fluidly sealed and spaced apart from the first enclosure.
2. The refrigerant system according to claim 1, wherein, The second cover is positioned at a higher height than the first cover.
3. The refrigerant system according to claim 1, wherein, The heat exchanger is placed outside the first enclosure, and the heat exchanger includes a fan configured to allow air to flow through the heat exchanger to exchange heat between the process fluid and the ambient air.
4. The refrigerant system according to claim 3, wherein, The fan is positioned along the vent of the heat exchanger, which is adjacent to the first and second enclosures.
5. The refrigerant system according to claim 4, wherein, The path defined by the vent is configured to guide the airflow caused by the fan in a direction away from the second enclosure.
6. The refrigerant system according to claim 1, wherein, The heat exchanger is a round tube and plate-fin (RTPF) heat exchanger or a microchannel heat exchanger (MCHE).
7. The refrigerant system according to claim 1, wherein, The heat exchanger has any or a combination of the following: V-shaped geometry, W-shaped geometry, C-shaped geometry, and vertical coil geometry.
8. The refrigerant system according to claim 1, wherein, The refrigerant circuit is configured to use a compressor to circulate the process fluid through the heat exchanger, and to circulate the process fluid from the heat exchanger back to the compressor via an expansion device within the first enclosure.
9. The refrigerant system of claim 1, further comprising one or more connectors configured to hermetically connect a refrigerant circuit disposed between the first housing and the heat exchanger.
10. The refrigerant system of claim 1, further comprising a reversible pump coupled to the refrigerant circuit to control the flow of the process fluid to switch between a heating mode and / or a cooling mode of the refrigerant circuit.
11. The refrigerant system according to claim 1, wherein, The process fluid is a refrigerant fluid selected from any one or a combination of the following: A2L, A2, A3, B2, and B3 refrigerant fluids.
12. The refrigerant system according to claim 1, wherein, The one or more electrical components include any one or a combination of the following: a controller, a variable frequency drive (VFD), one or more switches, and one or more energy storage devices.
13. The refrigerant system according to claim 1, wherein, The first enclosure includes a condensate outlet configured to discharge the process fluid out of the first enclosure.
14. The refrigerant system according to claim 1, wherein, The one or more electrical components are electrically connected to one or more mechanical components of the refrigerant circuit via one or more electrical cables passing through one or more electrical connectors disposed on at least one wall of the first enclosure, and wherein the one or more electrical cables are insulated from the air within the first enclosure.
15. The refrigerant system according to claim 14, wherein, The one or more electrical connectors include spring terminal connectors.
16. The refrigerant system according to claim 14, wherein, The one or more electrical cables are connected to the one or more electrical connectors and / or the one or more mechanical components through corresponding cable connectors.
17. The refrigerant system according to claim 1, wherein, The first enclosure includes another heat exchanger configured to exchange heat with a refrigerant circuit within the first enclosure.
18. The refrigerant system according to claim 17, wherein, The other heat exchanger is configured to allow water to circulate through it for heat exchange.
19. The refrigerant system according to claim 1, wherein, One or more sensors are disposed in the first enclosure and configured to detect the presence of process fluid in the air within the first enclosure.
20. A cooler, comprising: A refrigerant circuit configured to circulate a process fluid between a compressor and a heat exchanger, wherein at least a portion of the refrigerant circuit is configured to allow the process fluid to flow through the heat exchanger, the heat exchanger being configured to dissipate heat from the process fluid passing through the heat exchanger; as well as A second enclosure includes one or more electrical components configured to supply power to and / or control the refrigerant circuit, wherein the second enclosure is fluidly sealed and spaced apart from the first enclosure.