Bearing cooling device, centrifuge and refrigeration system

Abstract

The present disclosure provides a bearing cooling device, a centrifuge and a refrigeration system. The bearing cooling device comprises a shaft, a bearing mounted on the shaft, a guide flow channel arranged in the bearing, a bearing support for supporting the shaft through the bearing, an oil inlet flow channel and an oil outlet flow channel arranged in the bearing support, a first end of the oil inlet flow channel being used for introducing lubricating oil, a second end of the oil inlet flow channel being communicated with the guide flow channel, a first end of the oil outlet flow channel being communicated with the guide flow channel, and a second end of the oil outlet flow channel being used for discharging lubricating oil, and a sealing device cooperating with the bearing support and the shaft to form a sealed cavity, the sealing device being configured to seal the bearing in the sealed cavity. The bearing cooling device can introduce lubricating oil through the oil inlet flow channel to achieve the function of bearing cooling when the working temperature of the bearing is high by arranging the guide flow channel in the bearing, arranging the oil inlet flow channel and the oil outlet flow channel communicated with the guide flow channel in the bearing support, and forming the sealed cavity surrounding the bearing through the sealing device.

Description

Technical Field

[0001] This disclosure relates to the field of bearing cooling technology, and in particular to a bearing cooling device, centrifuge, and refrigeration system. Background Technology

[0002] For large-capacity heat pump centrifuges, the exhaust superheat is higher than that of conventional centrifuges because the airflow needs to be compressed in multiple stages to meet the requirements of the heat pump outlet water temperature. This results in more heat being transferred to the bearings, which can easily lead to slow heat dissipation or even high-temperature failure of the bearings, thus reducing the service life of the heat pump centrifuge. Utility Model Content

[0003] Embodiments of this disclosure provide a bearing cooling device, a centrifuge, and a refrigeration system that can improve the performance of bearings at high operating temperatures.

[0004] According to a first aspect of this disclosure, a bearing cooling device is provided, comprising: a shaft; a bearing mounted on the shaft, the bearing having a guide channel therein; a bearing support for supporting the shaft via the bearing, the bearing support having an oil inlet channel and an oil outlet channel, a first end of the oil inlet channel for introducing lubricating oil, a second end of the oil inlet channel communicating with the guide channel, a first end of the oil outlet channel communicating with the guide channel, and a second end of the oil outlet channel for discharging lubricating oil; and a sealing device that cooperates with the bearing support and the shaft to form a sealing cavity, the sealing device being configured to seal the bearing within the sealing cavity.

[0005] In some embodiments, the guide channel is formed on the outer side wall of the bearing and extends along the entire circumference of the bearing. The bottom wall of the guide channel is provided with a plurality of first holes spaced apart along the circumference, and the first holes extend to penetrate the inner side wall of the bearing.

[0006] In some embodiments, the guide channel is located in the middle region of the bearing along the axial direction of the shaft.

[0007] In some embodiments, the portion of the oil inlet channel near the bearing is arranged vertically, and the oil inlet channel is arranged near the top region of the bearing; and / or the portion of the oil outlet channel near the bearing is arranged vertically, and the oil outlet channel is arranged near the bottom region of the bearing.

[0008] In some embodiments, the bearing cooling device further includes: an oil inlet pipe connected to a first end of an oil inlet channel, wherein a first on / off valve is provided on the oil inlet pipe; and an oil outlet pipe connected to a second end of an oil outlet channel, wherein a second on / off valve is provided on the oil outlet pipe.

[0009] In some embodiments, the bearing cooling device further includes: a temperature sensor disposed within the bearing and configured to detect the temperature of the bearing; and a controller configured to, when the detected value of the temperature sensor exceeds a preset temperature threshold, open a second on-off valve to discharge lubricating oil from the sealing cavity; and, when the lubricating oil in the sealing cavity has been discharged, close the second on-off valve and open the first on-off valve to introduce lubricating oil into the sealing cavity.

[0010] In some embodiments, the bearing cooling device further includes: an oil drain line connected to a second end of an oil drain channel; and an ejector component disposed in the oil drain line and configured to accelerate the flow of lubricating oil.

[0011] In some embodiments, the shaft includes a main body and two shoulder portions provided on the outer side wall of the main body. The two shoulder portions are spaced apart along the axial direction of the shaft and respectively abut against the two end walls of the bearing. A second hole is provided on each of the two opposite side walls of the guide channel, and the second hole extends through the end wall of the bearing.

[0012] In some embodiments, the sealing device includes a first seal and a second seal, which are sleeved on the shaft and respectively disposed on both sides of the bearing support along the axial direction of the shaft.

[0013] In some embodiments, the first seal and the second seal are made of graphite.

[0014] In some embodiments, the bearing support includes a disc-shaped portion and a cylindrical portion, the cylindrical portion being coaxially connected to one end of the disc-shaped portion along the axial direction, the outer diameter of the disc-shaped portion being larger than the outer diameter of the cylindrical portion, and the disc-shaped portion having a recessed portion on the side away from the cylindrical portion along the axial direction.

[0015] The first seal has a first groove on the side facing the bearing, and the portion of the first seal located radially outside the first groove abuts against the outer end of the cylindrical portion; the second seal has a second groove on the side facing the bearing, and the portion of the second seal located radially outside the second groove abuts against the bottom surface of the recessed portion.

[0016] In some embodiments, the bearing cooling device further includes a level sensor disposed within the bearing support and configured to detect the level of lubricating oil within the sealed cavity.

[0017] In some embodiments, the bearing support has two vertically extending mounting holes, which are symmetrically arranged with respect to the vertical center plane of the bearing support. Each mounting hole is equipped with a liquid level sensor, and the liquid level height is the average value of the detection results of the two liquid level sensors.

[0018] In some embodiments, the ratio of the liquid level height to the maximum radius of the sealing cavity ranges from 0.35 to 0.45.

[0019] In some embodiments, the bearing is a porous oil-impregnated bearing.

[0020] According to a second aspect of this disclosure, a centrifuge is provided, including the bearing cooling device of the above embodiments.

[0021] According to a third aspect of this disclosure, a refrigeration system is proposed, including the bearing cooling device of the above embodiments or the centrifuge of the above embodiments.

[0022] Based on the above technical solution, the bearing cooling device of this disclosure forms a sealed cavity surrounding the bearing and a portion of the shaft section through a sealing device. When the bearing's operating temperature is high, lubricating oil can be introduced through the oil inlet channel and the guide channel to ensure that the lubricating oil is evenly distributed within the bearing. Excess lubricating oil fills the sealed cavity, allowing the bearing to be immersed within it. The lubricating oil carries away the bearing's heat. After heat exchange, the lubricating oil with an increased temperature is discharged through the guide channel and then through the oil outlet channel, thus achieving the bearing cooling function. This immersion-type cooling method with circulating lubricating oil can alleviate the problems of high bearing temperature and slow heat dissipation, achieving a stronger bearing cooling effect, reducing the risk of bearing failure due to high operating temperature, allowing the bearing to better perform its supporting function, and extending the bearing's service life. Therefore, the reliability and lifespan of the equipment containing the bearing can be improved. Attached Figure Description

[0023] The accompanying drawings, which are included to provide a further understanding of this disclosure and form part of this application, illustrate exemplary embodiments of this disclosure and are used to explain this disclosure, but do not constitute an undue limitation of this disclosure. In the drawings:

[0024] Figure 1 This is a cross-sectional view of some embodiments of the bearing cooling device disclosed herein.

[0025] Figure 2 This is a side view of some embodiments of the bearing cooling device disclosed herein.

[0026] Explanation of reference numerals in the attached figures

[0027] 1. Shaft; 11. Main body; 12. Shoulder of shaft;

[0028] 2. Bearing; 21. Guide channel; 22. First hole;

[0029] 3. Bearing support; 31. Oil inlet channel; 32. Oil outlet channel; 33. Oil inlet pipe; 34. Oil outlet pipe; 35. Disc-shaped part; 36. Cylindrical part; 37. Recessed part; 38. Mounting hole;

[0030] 4. Sealing device; 41. First sealing element; 411. First groove; 42. Second sealing element; 421. Second groove;

[0031] 51. First on / off valve; 52. Second on / off valve;

[0032] 6. Temperature sensor;

[0033] 7. Liquid level sensor;

[0034] C. Sealed cavity. Detailed Implementation

[0035] Various exemplary embodiments of the present disclosure will now be described in detail with reference to the accompanying drawings. The descriptions of the exemplary embodiments are merely illustrative and are in no way intended to limit the present disclosure or its application or use. The present disclosure may be implemented in many different forms and is not limited to the embodiments described herein. These embodiments are provided so that the present disclosure will be thorough and complete, and will fully express the scope of the disclosure to those skilled in the art. It should be noted that, unless specifically stated otherwise, the relative arrangement of components and steps, the composition of materials, numerical expressions, and values ​​set forth in these embodiments should be interpreted as exemplary only and not as limiting.

[0036] The terms "first," "second," and similar words used in this disclosure do not indicate any order, quantity, or importance, but are merely used to distinguish different parts. Words such as "including" or "contains" mean that the element preceding the word encompasses the element listed after it, and do not exclude the possibility of encompassing other elements as well. Terms such as "above," "below," "left," and "right" are used only to indicate relative positional relationships; when the absolute position of the described object changes, this relative positional relationship may also change accordingly.

[0037] In this disclosure, when a specific device is described as being located between a first device and a second device, an intermediary device may or may not be present between the specific device and the first or second device. When a specific device is described as being connected to other devices, the specific device may be directly connected to the other devices without an intermediary device, or it may be not directly connected to the other devices but have an intermediary device.

[0038] All terms used in this disclosure (including technical or scientific terms) have the same meaning as understood by one of ordinary skill in the art to which this disclosure pertains, unless otherwise specifically defined. It should also be understood that terms defined in a general dictionary, such as a dictionary, should be interpreted as having a meaning consistent with their meaning in the context of the relevant art, and not as having an idealized or highly formalized meaning, unless expressly defined herein.

[0039] Techniques, methods, and equipment known to those skilled in the art may not be discussed in detail, but where appropriate, they should be considered part of the specification.

[0040] Based on the embodiments disclosed above, in the absence of explicit denial or conflict, the technical features of one embodiment may be advantageously combined with one or more other embodiments.

[0041] Through research, the inventors discovered that large-capacity heat pump centrifuges have high requirements for the outlet water temperature of the heat pump, and the exhaust superheat is also higher than that of conventional centrifuges. During operation, more heat is transferred to the bearings, which can easily lead to slow heat dissipation of the bearings at high temperatures or even high-temperature failure.

[0042] Based on the above problems, this disclosure proposes a bearing cooling device, such as... Figure 1 and Figure 2 As shown, in some embodiments, the bearing cooling device includes: a shaft 1; a bearing 2 mounted on the shaft 1, the bearing 2 having a guide channel 21; a bearing support 3 for supporting the shaft 1 via the bearing 2, the bearing support 3 having an oil inlet channel 31 and an oil outlet channel 32, the first end of the oil inlet channel 31 for introducing lubricating oil, the second end of the oil inlet channel 31 communicating with the guide channel 21, the first end of the oil outlet channel 32 communicating with the guide channel 21, and the second end of the oil outlet channel 32 for discharging lubricating oil; and a sealing device 4, which cooperates with the bearing support 3 and the shaft 1 to form a sealing cavity C, the sealing device 4 being configured to seal the bearing 2 within the sealing cavity C.

[0043] Specifically, shaft 1 is arranged horizontally, bearing 2 is coaxially fitted with shaft 1 to support shaft 1, bearing support 3 supports shaft 1 through bearing 2, and sealing device 4 is installed on bearing support 3 and fits with shaft 1. Shaft 1 is rotatable relative to sealing device 4. Sealing device 4 can be set on both sides of bearing 2 along the axial direction, forming a sealing cavity C with bearing support 3 and shaft 1, so that bearing 2 is located in sealing cavity C. The formed sealing cavity C is used to fill lubricating oil, so that bearing 2 is immersed in lubricating oil, which provides lubrication for the relative rotation of shaft 1 and bearing 2 and absorbs heat.

[0044] Bearing 2 has a guide channel 21 inside, and bearing support 3 has an oil inlet channel 31 and an oil outlet channel 32 connected to the guide channel 21 of bearing 2. Lubricating oil is input through the oil inlet channel 31, flows through the guide channel 21 and is distributed inside bearing 2 to absorb heat inside bearing 2. The guide channel 21 is connected to the sealing cavity C. When the lubricating oil exceeds the capacity of the guide channel 21, it fills the sealing cavity C. The lubricating oil in the sealing cavity C can also be discharged through the guide channel 21 to the oil outlet channel 32. In addition, during the process of lubricating oil entering the guide channel 21 through the oil inlet channel 31, it can also enter the sealing cavity C through the gap between bearing support 3 and bearing 2. For example, bearing 2 is a sliding bearing.

[0045] The bearing cooling device of this embodiment provides a guide channel 21 inside the bearing 2, and an oil inlet channel 31 and an oil outlet channel 32 connected to the guide channel 21 inside the bearing support 3. A sealing cavity C is formed by the sealing device 4, which surrounds part of the shaft section of the bearing 2 and the shaft 1. When the operating temperature of the bearing 2 is high, lubricating oil can be introduced through the oil inlet channel 31 and the guide channel 21 to make the lubricating oil more evenly distributed inside the bearing 2. Excess lubricating oil fills the sealing cavity C, allowing the bearing 2 to be immersed in the sealing cavity C. The lubricating oil carries away the heat of the bearing 2. The lubricating oil whose temperature rises after heat exchange can flow from the guide channel 21 to the oil outlet channel 32 for discharge, thereby achieving the function of cooling the bearing 2 and reducing the risk of high temperature failure of the bearing 2.

[0046] This oil-immersion cooling method, with its circulating lubricating oil, can rapidly dissipate heat from bearing 2 compared to traditional oil splashing or spraying methods. This alleviates the problems of high bearing temperature and slow heat dissipation, achieving a stronger cooling effect. Furthermore, oil immersion cooling allows for a more uniform temperature reduction across the entire bearing 2, not just on critical mating surfaces. Therefore, this bearing cooling device achieves superior cooling performance, improves bearing 2's operating performance, reduces the risk of bearing 2 failure due to high operating temperatures, allows bearing 2 to better fulfill its supporting function, and extends its service life. Consequently, it improves the reliability and lifespan of the equipment containing bearing 2.

[0047] In some embodiments, such as Figure 1 As shown, the guide channel 21 is opened on the outer side wall of the bearing 2 and extends along the entire circumference of the bearing 2. The bottom wall of the guide channel 21 is provided with a plurality of first holes 22 at intervals along the circumference, and the first holes 22 extend to penetrate the inner side wall of the bearing 2.

[0048] For example, the guide channel 21 may be annular or extend along other curved paths. Multiple first holes 22 may be evenly distributed along the circumference of the bearing 2 so that the lubricating oil can reach the mating clearance between the bearing 2 and the shaft 1 evenly through the guide channel 21, thereby providing a better cooling effect on the area of ​​the bearing 2 near the radial inner wall and the shaft 1.

[0049] This embodiment facilitates machining by placing the guide channel 21 on the outer wall of the bearing 2. It allows for connection to the oil inlet channel 31 and oil outlet channel 32 without the need for additional pipes or channels, reducing the complexity of the internal oil passages of the bearing 2 and improving the overall strength of the bearing 2. Furthermore, the guide channel 21 can extend along the entire circumference of the bearing 2, achieving uniform cooling throughout the entire circumference, and allows the oil inlet channel 31 and oil outlet channel 32 to be conveniently located at any position along the circumference of the bearing 2.

[0050] In addition, the bearing 2 is provided with multiple first holes 22 at circumferential intervals. The first holes 22 penetrate the inner wall of the bearing 2, and the lubricating oil in the guide channel 21 can quickly reach the fitting clearance between the bearing 2 and the shaft 1 through the multiple first holes 22. This can improve the flow efficiency of the lubricating oil, allow the shaft 1 and the bearing 2 to be better immersed in the lubricating oil, and also play a better cooling role for the area of ​​the bearing 2 near the radial inner wall and the shaft 1, thereby improving the cooling capacity of the bearing 2.

[0051] In some embodiments, such as Figure 1 As shown, the guide channel 21 is located in the middle region of the bearing 2 along the axial direction of the shaft 1.

[0052] In this embodiment, the guide channel 21 is located in the middle region of the bearing 2 along the axial direction, which can reduce the impact of the guide channel 21 on the structural strength of the bearing 2 and extend the service life of the bearing 2. Moreover, the lubricating oil in the guide channel 21 can cool the areas of the bearing 2 located on both sides of the guide channel 21, making the cooling effect of the bearing 2 more uniform in the entire axial direction.

[0053] In some embodiments, such as Figure 1 As shown, the portion of the oil inlet channel 31 near the bearing 2 is arranged vertically, and the portion of the oil inlet channel 31 near the top region of the bearing 2 is arranged vertically; and / or the portion of the oil outlet channel 32 near the bearing 2 is arranged vertically, and the portion of the oil outlet channel 32 near the bottom region of the bearing 2 is arranged.

[0054] Specifically, the oil inlet channel 31 is located at the top of the bearing 2, and the oil outlet channel 32 is located at the bottom of the bearing 2. The oil inlet channel 31 is located entirely above the oil outlet channel 32.

[0055] In this embodiment, the portion of the oil inlet channel 31 near the bearing 2 is arranged vertically, and the oil inlet channel 31 is arranged near the top area of ​​the bearing 2, which facilitates the flow of lubricating oil into the guide channel 21 by gravity, thereby achieving rapid oil inlet and allowing the lubricating oil to quickly and evenly reach different positions around the bearing 2.

[0056] The portion of the oil drain channel 32 near the bearing 2 is arranged vertically, and the oil drain channel 32 is located near the bottom area of ​​the bearing 2. This facilitates the drainage of the lubricating oil in the channel 21 by gravity. When the lubricating oil temperature is high after heat exchange, the lubricating oil in the sealing cavity C can be quickly drained to replace it with lubricating oil at a lower temperature. Before providing new lubricating oil, rapid oil drainage can minimize the time that the bearing 2 is immersed in high-temperature lubricating oil and when the amount of lubricating oil is small, thereby ensuring the working performance of the bearing 2 during the lubricating oil replacement process.

[0057] In some embodiments, such as Figure 1As shown, the bearing cooling device also includes: an oil inlet pipe 33, which is connected to the first end of the oil inlet channel 31, and a first on / off valve 51 is provided on the oil inlet pipe 33; and an oil outlet pipe 34, which is connected to the second end of the oil outlet channel 32, and a second on / off valve 52 is provided on the oil outlet pipe 34.

[0058] For example, the first on / off valve 51 and the second on / off valve 52 can be solenoid valves, etc.

[0059] like Figure 1 As shown, the oil inlet channel 31 includes a first vertical section and a first horizontal section. The first vertical section extends radially along the bearing support 3, and the first horizontal section extends axially along the bearing support 3. The inner end of the first horizontal section is connected to the radial outer end region of the first vertical section, and the outer end of the first horizontal section is connected to the oil inlet pipe 33. This structure allows the oil inlet pipe 33 to not occupy space on the radial outer side of the bearing support 3.

[0060] The oil drain channel 32 includes a second vertical section and a second horizontal section. The second vertical section extends radially along the bearing support 3, and the second horizontal section extends axially along the bearing support 3. The inner end of the second horizontal section is connected to the radial outer end region of the second vertical section, and the outer end of the second horizontal section is connected to the oil drain pipe 34. This structure allows the oil drain pipe 34 to not occupy space on the radial outer side of the bearing support 3.

[0061] To facilitate processing, the first and second vertical sections are opened from the outer peripheral sidewall of the bearing support 3, and then the openings are closed by plugs.

[0062] In this embodiment, the bearing cooling device further includes an oil inlet pipe 33 and an oil outlet pipe 34. The oil inlet pipe 33 is connected to the first end of the oil inlet channel 31, and the oil outlet pipe 34 is connected to the second end of the oil outlet channel 32. A first on-off valve 51 and a second on-off valve 52 are respectively provided on the oil inlet pipe 33 and the oil outlet pipe 34. By controlling the first on-off valve 51 and the second on-off valve 52, the on-off and off-off of the oil inlet pipe 33 and the oil outlet pipe 34 can be controlled independently, making it easy to control the inlet and outlet of the lubricating oil in the bearing cooling device, and flexibly controlling the amount of lubricating oil supplied and the timing of replacement according to the cooling requirements.

[0063] In some embodiments, such as Figure 1 As shown, the bearing cooling device further includes: a temperature sensor 6, disposed inside the bearing 2, configured to detect the temperature of the bearing 2; and a controller, configured to open the second on-off valve 52 to discharge lubricating oil from the sealing cavity C when the detected value of the temperature sensor 6 exceeds a preset temperature threshold; and to close the second on-off valve 52 and open the first on-off valve 51 to introduce lubricating oil into the sealing cavity C when the lubricating oil in the sealing cavity C has been completely discharged.

[0064] For example, such as Figure 1 As shown, two temperature sensors 6 are provided. Two elongated holes can be provided on the bearing 2, and the temperature sensors 6 are installed in the elongated holes. The two temperature sensors 6 can be located in the top area of ​​the bearing 2, and are respectively located in the area near both ends of the bearing 2 along the axial direction. The two temperature sensors 6 are located on both sides of the guide channel 21 along the axial direction. By setting two temperature sensors 6, the temperature at different positions of the bearing 2 can be obtained to objectively reflect the current operating temperature of the bearing 2. When using the controller to control the timing of changing the lubricating oil, the average value detected by the two temperature sensors 6 can be compared with a preset temperature threshold.

[0065] In this embodiment, the temperature sensor 6 works in conjunction with the controller. When the temperature of the bearing 2 exceeds a preset temperature threshold, the sensor actively discharges the lubricating oil in the sealed cavity C that has already undergone sufficient heat exchange with the shaft 1 and bearing 2, and then introduces lubricating oil at a lower temperature to quickly remove the accumulated heat, allowing the bearing 2 to continuously cool down and preventing damage due to overheating. Furthermore, the controller controls the opening and closing of the first on / off valve 51 and the second on / off valve 52 based on the actual temperature, preventing the lubricating oil from being replaced while its temperature is still low. This improves the utilization efficiency of the lubricating oil and prevents frequent inflow and outflow of lubricating oil, which can lead to instability under the action of the high-speed rotating shaft 1. This makes the working environment of the bearing 2 more stable and reduces the number of oil drains, allowing the bearing 2 to operate in a state with less lubricating oil for a longer period.

[0066] In some embodiments, such as Figure 1 As shown, the bearing cooling device further includes: an oil drain line 34 connected to the second end of the oil drain channel 32; and an ejector component disposed in the oil drain line 34 and configured to accelerate the flow of lubricating oil.

[0067] In this embodiment, by providing an ejector component in the oil drain line 34, the discharge of lubricating oil after cooling the bearing 2 can be accelerated, reducing the retention of high-temperature oil in the sealing cavity C and improving cooling efficiency. Furthermore, by providing the ejector component, a certain negative pressure is maintained within the sealing cavity C, which helps to reduce lubricating oil leakage.

[0068] In some embodiments, such as Figure 1 As shown, the shaft 1 includes a main body 11 and two shoulder portions 12 provided on the outer side wall of the main body 11. The two shoulder portions 12 are spaced apart along the axial direction of the shaft 1 and respectively abut against the two end walls of the bearing 2. A second hole is opened on each of the two opposite side walls of the guide channel 21, and the second hole extends to penetrate the end wall of the bearing 2.

[0069] In this embodiment, two shaft shoulders 12 are provided, which abut against the two end walls of the bearing 2, providing axial constraint. This allows the bearing 2 to be quickly positioned during installation and improves the stability of its operation. The second hole on the side of the guide channel 21 extends through the end wall of the bearing 2, allowing lubricating oil to flow from the guide channel 21 through the second hole to the contact interface between the shaft 1 and the bearing 2. This reduces friction between the end face of the bearing 2 and the shaft shoulder 12, allowing for a smaller gap between the bearing 2 and the shaft shoulder 12, improving the positioning accuracy of the bearing 2, thereby enhancing the support effect of the bearing 2 on the shaft 1. It also reduces the temperature of the mating area between the end face of the bearing 2 and the shaft shoulder 12.

[0070] In some embodiments, such as Figure 1 As shown, the sealing device 4 includes a first sealing element 41 and a second sealing element 42. The first sealing element 41 and the second sealing element 42 are sleeved on the shaft 1 and are respectively disposed on both sides of the bearing support 3 along the axial direction of the shaft 1.

[0071] Specifically, the side of the first seal 41 away from the bearing support 3 along the axial direction is the pneumatic region, and the side of the second seal 42 away from the bearing support 3 along the axial direction is the motor region. Both the first seal 41 and the second seal 42 can be installed on the bearing support 3 by fasteners, such as screws or bolts.

[0072] An oil tank is formed between the first seal 41, the second seal 42, the bearing support 3, and the shaft 1.

[0073] In this embodiment, by setting separate first seal 41 and second seal 42, the sealing device 4 is easy to install, and the first seal 41 and second seal 42 can be configured with seals of different specifications according to different external environments on both sides of the shaft 1, so as to improve the stability of the sealing device 4.

[0074] In some embodiments, such as Figure 1 As shown, the first seal 41 and the second seal 42 are made of graphite.

[0075] In this embodiment, the first seal 41 and the second seal 42 use graphite seals, utilizing the layered crystal structure of graphite. Graphite consists of carbon atoms arranged in a hexagonal honeycomb pattern, forming strong covalent bonds within the layers, while the layers are connected by relatively weak van der Waals forces. This allows the graphite to easily slip between layers under external compression, exhibiting good elastic deformation capabilities. Under axial compression and lubricating oil pressure, the graphite can undergo plastic flow, filling the tiny uneven areas on the sealing contact surface, thus compacting the graphite as a whole and tightly adhering to the sealing surface, effectively filling microscopic gaps. Moreover, graphite has good self-lubricating properties. When the graphite rubs against the shaft 1, a lubricating film gradually forms on the friction contact surface, which not only reduces frictional energy loss but also fills gaps, thus improving the sealing effect.

[0076] In some embodiments, such as Figure 1 As shown, the bearing support 3 includes a disc-shaped portion 35 and a cylindrical portion 36. The cylindrical portion 36 is coaxially connected to one end of the disc-shaped portion 35 along the axial direction. The outer diameter of the disc-shaped portion 35 is larger than the outer diameter of the cylindrical portion 36. The disc-shaped portion 35 has a recessed portion 37 on the side away from the cylindrical portion 36 along the axial direction. The first seal 41 has a first groove 411 on the side facing the bearing 2, and the portion of the first seal 41 located radially outside the first groove 411 abuts against the outer end of the cylindrical portion 36. The second seal 42 has a second groove 421 on the side facing the bearing 2, and the portion of the second seal 42 located radially outside the second groove 421 abuts against the bottom surface of the recessed portion 37.

[0077] The oil inlet channel 31 and the oil outlet channel 32 can be provided in the disc-shaped portion 35 and arranged radially along the disc-shaped portion 35. For example, the oil inlet channel 31 and the oil outlet channel 32 can be located on the same straight line.

[0078] For example, a boss may be provided on the outer side wall of the bearing 2, the boss may extend along the entire axial direction of the bearing 2, or the boss may include a plurality of sub-bosses spaced apart along the circumference of the bearing 2, the boss abutting against the bottom surface of the recess 37.

[0079] In this embodiment, the bearing support 3 includes a disc-shaped portion 35 and a cylindrical portion 36. The outer diameter of the disc-shaped portion 35 is larger than that of the cylindrical portion 36, which improves the overall rigidity and stability of the bearing support 3 and enables it to better withstand the radial force and bending moment of the shaft 1. The outer diameter of the cylindrical portion 36 is smaller, which helps to reduce the volume and weight of the bearing support 3. The portion of the first seal 41 located radially outside the first groove 411 abuts against the outer end of the cylindrical portion 36, which helps to improve the bending rigidity and stability of the bearing support 3. The portion of the second seal 42 located radially outside the second groove 421 abuts against the bottom surface of the recess 37, which reduces the axial length and makes the structural layout of the sealing device 4 more compact. It also increases the distance between the second seal 42 and other components located on its outer side, improving the safety of the operation of other components.

[0080] For example, the second seal 42 is installed on the outer side along the axial direction of the motor. The motor has a stator assembly, and the stator and rotor are provided with windings. The winding coil occupies a large space. By providing a recess 37 on the end face of the bearing support 3 near the winding, more space can be left for the coil, thereby improving the safety of the motor operation.

[0081] In some embodiments, such as Figure 2 As shown, the bearing cooling device also includes a liquid level sensor 7, which is installed inside the bearing support 3 and is configured to detect the liquid level of the lubricating oil in the sealing cavity C.

[0082] Specifically, the liquid level sensor 7 is a laser liquid level sensor. The laser liquid level sensor emits a laser, and the liquid level height data is obtained by reflection when the laser reaches the liquid surface.

[0083] Before the equipment starts, the controller can open the first on / off valve 51 to start the oil supply. The low-temperature lubricating oil enters the bearing 2 through the oil inlet channel 31, at which time the second on / off valve 52 closes. The lubricating oil wets the contact surface between the bearing 2 and the shaft 1 through the guide channel 21 and the first hole 22 inside the bearing 2, thereby generating an oil film that suspends the shaft 1, and the equipment operates normally and stably. When the liquid level sensor 7 detects that the oil level in the sealing cavity C has reached the preset height threshold, the controller closes the first on / off valve 51.

[0084] When the lubricating oil in the sealed cavity C experiences a temperature rise exceeding a preset temperature threshold after heat exchange, it needs to be drained. At this time, the controller opens the second on-off valve 52. During the draining process, the level sensor 7 can detect when the draining is complete. For example, the draining is considered complete when the oil level is not higher than a first preset height, and the second on-off valve 52 is closed. The first preset height can be set in advance. Then, the first on-off valve 51 is opened to introduce lubricating oil at a lower temperature.

[0085] In this embodiment, a level sensor 7 is used to detect the lubricating oil level in the sealing cavity C. This helps to prevent the lubricating oil from being too much or too little, ensuring that the lubricating oil in the sealing cavity C is maintained at a suitable level, thus improving the stability of the cooling effect. Furthermore, if the lubricating oil level in the sealing cavity C is too low, the lubrication effect is poor, the oil film thickness is insufficient, and it can easily lead to dry friction or even burnout of the bearing 2. If the oil level is too high, the lubricating oil will splash violently, causing large oil pressure fluctuations and affecting the seal. Therefore, by setting the level sensor 7, a suitable level of lubricating oil can be introduced into the sealing cavity C, balancing the lubricating oil level between "sufficient oil film in the bearing area" and "controllable lubricating oil splashing," while also allowing for expansion when the oil temperature rises. This ensures that the bearing 2 receives sufficient lubrication and maintains a good cooling effect, while also preventing excessive lubricating oil splashing from affecting the sealing effect.

[0086] In some embodiments, such as Figure 2 As shown, the bearing support 3 has two mounting holes 38 extending vertically. The two mounting holes 38 are symmetrically arranged with respect to the vertical center plane of the bearing support 3. Each mounting hole 38 is equipped with a liquid level sensor 7, and the liquid level height is the average value of the detection results of the two liquid level sensors 7.

[0087] The liquid level sensor 7 is located inside the cylindrical portion 36 of the bearing support 3, above the horizontal center plane, so that it can detect the lubricating oil level in the sealing cavity C even when it is high. In the horizontal direction perpendicular to the axial direction, the two liquid level sensors 7 are located on either side of the temperature sensor 6.

[0088] In this embodiment, two level sensors 7 at the same height are set to reduce the inaccuracy of measurement results caused by fluctuations in the lubricating oil level. The rotation of shaft 1 will cause uneven liquid level. When shaft 1 rotates in a certain direction, the oil level near one of the level sensors 7 will be lower, while the oil level near the other level sensor 7 will be higher. By taking the average value of the measurement results of the two level sensors 7, a more accurate result can be obtained.

[0089] In some embodiments, such as Figure 2 As shown, the ratio of the liquid level height to the maximum radius of the sealing cavity C ranges from 0.35 to 0.45.

[0090] The higher the rotational speed of shaft 1, the greater the centrifugal force it needs to resist. Under the action of centrifugal force, the oil film becomes thinner. In order to achieve a better lubrication effect, the oil film needs to be thickened. This can be achieved by increasing the amount of lubricating oil introduced. The ratio of the liquid level height to the maximum radius of the sealing cavity C tends to be 0.45. The lower the rotational speed of shaft 1, the smaller and more controllable the oil splash needs to be. The ratio of the liquid level height to the maximum radius of the sealing cavity C tends to be 0.35.

[0091] This embodiment takes into account that if the oil level in the sealing cavity C is too low, the lubrication effect will be poor, the oil film thickness will be insufficient, and dry friction of the bearing will easily occur; if the oil level in the sealing cavity C is too high, the lubricating oil will splash violently, and the oil pressure will be too high, affecting the sealing of the lubricating oil. By setting the ratio of the liquid level height to the maximum radius of the sealing cavity C within an appropriate range, it is beneficial to ensure a suitable oil film thickness, obtain a good lubrication effect, and prevent lubricating oil splashing and excessive oil pressure, thereby improving sealing performance. Thus, both lubrication effect and stable sealing can be maintained simultaneously.

[0092] In some embodiments, such as Figure 1 and Figure 2 As shown, bearing 2 is a porous oil-impregnated bearing.

[0093] Specifically, when high-temperature lubricating oil is drained, the porous oil-impregnated bearing will release its own internal lubricating oil due to the temperature change, thereby achieving a lubrication effect.

[0094] In this embodiment, bearing 2 is a porous oil-impregnated bearing. If the temperature of the lubricating oil in the sealed cavity C is too high after heat exchange and needs to be discharged, the porous bearing will release the internal lubricating oil after the lubricating oil is discharged, which helps to reduce the wear of bearing 2 caused by the small amount of lubricating oil during the oil discharge period.

[0095] Secondly, this disclosure also proposes a centrifuge, including the bearing cooling device in the above embodiments. For example, the centrifuge can be a heat pump centrifuge. In some embodiments, the heat pump centrifuge uses two or more stages of compression, resulting in a high pressure ratio and increased work done by the compressor, leading to a higher temperature of the bearing 2. This is a high-temperature heat pump centrifuge. Furthermore, the centrifuge can also be a magnetic levitation centrifuge or an air-suspended centrifuge.

[0096] In this embodiment, the centrifuge provides active cooling for bearing 2. Bearing 2 employs an oil-immersion cooling method, and the lubricating oil is recirculated. This alleviates the problems of high temperature and slow heat dissipation in bearing 2, achieving a stronger bearing cooling effect, improving the working performance of bearing 2, reducing the risk of bearing 2 failure due to high operating temperature, allowing bearing 2 to better perform its supporting function, and extending the service life of bearing 2. As a result, the centrifuge can operate at higher pressure ratios and flow rates, increasing single-unit capacity and overall energy efficiency ratio, optimizing working performance, and also improving the reliability and lifespan of the centrifuge.

[0097] Optionally, the centrifuge bearing 2 is equipped with a temperature sensor 6 for detection. When the oil temperature is abnormal, the controller can respond quickly and replace the lubricating oil with one at a lower temperature. Thus, the lubricating oil lubricates the shaft 1 and bearing 2 at the permissible temperature, which helps to stabilize and suppress vibration and noise, thereby improving the centrifuge's operating performance.

[0098] Furthermore, this disclosure also provides a refrigeration system, including the bearing cooling device of the above embodiments or the centrifuge of the above embodiments. The refrigeration system is a system that utilizes refrigerant circulation to achieve heat exchange; for example, the refrigeration system can be an air conditioning unit, etc.

[0099] The refrigeration system in this embodiment provides active cooling for bearing 2, which employs oil immersion cooling with recirculating lubricating oil. This alleviates the problems of high temperature and slow heat dissipation in bearing 2, achieving a stronger cooling effect, improving the working performance of bearing 2, reducing the risk of failure due to high operating temperature, allowing bearing 2 to better fulfill its supporting function, and extending its service life. Therefore, the working performance of the refrigeration system can be optimized, while also improving its reliability and lifespan.

[0100] Finally, this disclosure also proposes a control method for the bearing cooling device based on the above embodiments. In some embodiments, this control method includes: when the temperature of the bearing 2 exceeds a preset temperature threshold, opening the second on-off valve 52 to discharge the lubricating oil in the sealing cavity C, wherein the second on-off valve 52 is provided on the oil drain pipe 34 connected to the second end of the oil drain channel 32; when the lubricating oil in the sealing cavity C is discharged to a height not higher than a first preset height, closing the second on-off valve 52 and opening the first on-off valve 51 to introduce lubricating oil into the sealing cavity C; wherein the first on-off valve 51 is provided on the oil inlet pipe 33 connected to the first end of the oil inlet channel 31.

[0101] Specifically, the preset temperature threshold should be less than the allowable temperature of bearing 2. When the high-temperature lubricating oil is discharged from the sealing cavity C, the temperature of bearing 2 will rise briefly. Low-temperature lubricating oil should be introduced before the temperature of bearing 2 reaches the allowable temperature.

[0102] In this embodiment, when the temperature of bearing 2 exceeds a preset temperature threshold, the high-temperature lubricating oil is actively discharged from the sealing cavity C, and low-temperature lubricating oil is introduced to promptly exchange heat and cool down the shaft 1 and bearing 2. At the same time, the lubricating oil is replaced before the lubricating effect deteriorates due to high temperature. The lubricating oil introduced into the sealing cavity C is discharged to a height not higher than the first preset height so that the high-temperature lubricating oil is fully discharged, ensuring the cooling effect of the newly introduced lubricating oil.

[0103] In some embodiments, the preset temperature threshold of the bearing 2 is 60°C, the allowable temperature of the bearing 2 is 80°C, and the temperature of the low-temperature lubricating oil introduced is 40°C to 45°C.

[0104] In some embodiments, during the process of introducing lubricating oil into the sealing cavity C, when the lubricating oil reaches a second preset height, the first on-off valve 51 is closed; wherein the second preset height is greater than the first preset height.

[0105] In this embodiment, when lubricating oil is introduced into the sealing cavity C to a second preset height, the introduction is stopped. Setting the lubricating oil level within a suitable range not only helps to ensure a suitable oil film thickness and obtain a good lubrication effect, but also prevents lubricating oil splashing and excessive oil pressure, thus improving sealing performance while maintaining lubrication effect.

[0106] The foregoing has provided a detailed description of a bearing cooling device, centrifuge, and refrigeration system provided in this disclosure. Specific embodiments have been used to illustrate the principles and implementation methods of this disclosure. The descriptions of these embodiments are merely for the purpose of helping to understand the method and core ideas of this disclosure. It should be noted that those skilled in the art can make various improvements and modifications to this disclosure without departing from its principles, and these improvements and modifications also fall within the protection scope of the claims of this disclosure.

Claims

1. A bearing cooling device, characterized in that, include: Axis (1); A bearing (2) is installed on the shaft (1), and a guide channel (21) is provided inside the bearing (2); A bearing support (3) is provided for supporting the shaft (1) via the bearing (2). The bearing support (3) has an oil inlet channel (31) and an oil outlet channel (32). The first end of the oil inlet channel (31) is for introducing lubricating oil, and the second end of the oil inlet channel (31) is connected to the guide channel (21). The first end of the oil outlet channel (32) is connected to the guide channel (21), and the second end of the oil outlet channel (32) is for discharging lubricating oil. A sealing device (4) is configured to seal the bearing (2) within the sealing cavity (C) in conjunction with the bearing support (3) and the shaft (1).

2. The bearing cooling device according to claim 1, characterized in that, The guide channel (21) is opened on the outer wall of the bearing (2) and extends along the entire circumference of the bearing (2). The bottom wall of the guide channel (21) is provided with a plurality of first holes (22) at intervals along the circumference. The first holes (22) extend to penetrate the inner wall of the bearing (2).

3. The bearing cooling device according to claim 1, characterized in that, The guide channel (21) is located in the middle region of the bearing (2) along the axial direction of the shaft (1).

4. The bearing cooling device according to claim 1, characterized in that, The portion of the oil inlet channel (31) near the bearing (2) is arranged vertically, and the oil inlet channel (31) is arranged near the top region of the bearing (2); and / or The portion of the oil drain channel (32) near the bearing (2) is arranged vertically, and the portion of the oil drain channel (32) is arranged near the bottom region of the bearing (2).

5. The bearing cooling device according to claim 1, characterized in that, Also includes: An oil inlet pipe (33) is connected to the first end of the oil inlet channel (31), and a first on / off valve (51) is provided on the oil inlet pipe (33); and The oil drain line (34) is connected to the second end of the oil drain channel (32), and the oil drain line (34) is provided with a second on / off valve (52).

6. The bearing cooling device according to claim 1, characterized in that, Also includes: A temperature sensor (6) is disposed within the bearing (2) and is configured to detect the temperature of the bearing (2).

7. The bearing cooling device according to claim 1, characterized in that, Also includes: The oil drain line (34) is connected to the second end of the oil drain channel (32); and An ejector component, located in the oil drain line (34), is configured to accelerate the flow of lubricating oil.

8. The bearing cooling device according to claim 1, characterized in that, The shaft (1) includes a main body (11) and two shoulder portions (12) provided on the outer side wall of the main body (11). The two shoulder portions (12) are spaced apart along the axial direction of the shaft (1) and respectively abut against the two end walls of the bearing (2). A second hole is opened on each of the two opposite side walls of the guide channel (21), and the second hole extends to penetrate the end wall of the bearing (2).

9. The bearing cooling device according to any one of claims 1 to 8, characterized in that, The sealing device (4) includes a first sealing element (41) and a second sealing element (42), which are sleeved on the shaft (1) and respectively disposed on both sides of the bearing support (3) along the axial direction of the shaft (1).

10. The bearing cooling device according to claim 9, characterized in that, The first seal (41) and the second seal (42) are made of graphite.

11. The bearing cooling device according to claim 9, characterized in that, The bearing support (3) includes a disc-shaped portion (35) and a cylindrical portion (36). The cylindrical portion (36) is coaxially connected to one end of the disc-shaped portion (35) along the axial direction. The outer diameter of the disc-shaped portion (35) is larger than the outer diameter of the cylindrical portion (36). The disc-shaped portion (35) has a recess (37) on the side away from the cylindrical portion (36) along the axial direction. The first seal (41) has a first groove (411) on the side facing the bearing (2), and the portion of the first seal (41) located radially outside the first groove (411) abuts against the outer end of the cylindrical portion (36); the second seal (42) has a second groove (421) on the side facing the bearing (2), and the portion of the second seal (42) located radially outside the second groove (421) abuts against the bottom surface of the recessed portion (37).

12. The bearing cooling device according to any one of claims 1 to 8, characterized in that, Also includes: A level sensor (7) is disposed in the bearing support (3) and is configured to detect the level of lubricating oil in the sealed cavity (C).

13. The bearing cooling device according to claim 12, characterized in that, The bearing support (3) is provided with two mounting holes (38) extending vertically. The two mounting holes (38) are symmetrically arranged with respect to the vertical center plane of the bearing support (3). Each mounting hole (38) is provided with a liquid level sensor (7). The liquid level height is the average value of the detection results of the two liquid level sensors (7).

14. The bearing cooling device according to claim 12, characterized in that, The ratio of the liquid level height to the maximum radius of the sealed cavity (C) is in the range of 0.35 to 0.

45.

15. The bearing cooling device according to any one of claims 1 to 8, characterized in that, The bearing (2) is a porous oil-impregnated bearing.

16. A centrifuge, characterized in that, Includes the bearing cooling device according to any one of claims 1 to 15.

17. A refrigeration system, characterized in that, It includes the bearing cooling device according to any one of claims 1 to 15, or the centrifuge according to claim 16.

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