Liquid valving condenser header

Abstract

A closed loop cooling system can include a first condenser having a first inlet to receive a cooling media for removing heat from a heat source, a second condenser having a second inlet to receive the cooling media, and a header for being plumbed between a heat source and the condensers. The second condenser can be plumbed in parallel with the first condenser. The header can receive the cooling media from the heat source and selectively distribute the cooling media to either or both of the condensers. The header can have a first outlet fluidically coupled to the first inlet and a second outlet fluidically coupled to the second inlet. The second outlet can be located on the header at a lower elevation than the first outlet.

Description

CROSS REFERENCE TO RELATED APPLICATIONS

[0001] This application claims the benefit of U.S. Provisional Patent Application No. 63 / 662,682 filed June 21, 2024, and U.S. Non-Provisional Patent Application No. 19 / 243,689 filed June 20, 2025.TECHNICAL FIELD

[0002] The present disclosure relates generally to closed loop cooling systems and more specifically relates to split condenser cooling systems.BACKGROUND

[0003] Current split condenser systems use valves and / or other flow control devices to stop or limit refrigerant flow into one or more condensers, or portions thereof. These devices add cost, complication, maintenance requirements, and potential points of failure.SUMMARY

[0004] Applicant has created new and useful devices, systems and methods for split condenser cooling. By using a liquid level in a header to block off vapor communication with a condenser, examples of the disclosure can more efficiently control the cooling capacity of a cooling system. For example, examples of the disclosure can eliminate the need for one or more flow control devices, such as valves, thereby simplifying a cooling system, minimizing costs and minimizing or eliminating one or more potential leak and / or other failure points.

[0005] In at least one example, a system according to the disclosure, such as a cooling system or a system for extracting heat, can include a first condenser having an inlet for receiving a cooling media, one or more other condensers plumbed in parallel with the first condenser and having one or more other inlets for receiving the cooling media, and one or more headers plumbed between a heat source or heat exchanger and the condensers. In at least one example, a header can have one outlet for being fluidically coupled to the inlet of the first condenser and another outlet for being fluidically coupled to the inlet of another condenser, and one outlet can be located on the header at a lower elevation or position than the other outlet. In at least one example, the header can receive cooling media from one or more heat sources and can selectively distribute the cooling media to one or more condensers.

[0006] In at least one example, a closed loop cooling system can include a heat source to transfer heat to a cooling media, a first condenser having a first inlet to receive the media, a second condenser having a second inlet to receive the media, a header plumbed between the heat source and the condensers, or any combination thereof. In at least one example, the second condenser can be plumbed in parallel with the first condenser. In at least one example, the header can receive the media from the heat source and selectively distribute the media to either or both of the condensers. In at least one example, the header can have a first outlet fluidically coupled to the first inlet and / or a second outlet fluidically coupled to the second inlet. In at least one example, the second outlet can be located on the header at a lower elevation than the first outlet.

[0007] In at least one example, the header can selectively prevent vapor from exiting the second outlet, thereby selectively decreasing, or eliminating, the second condenser's capacity to remove heat from the media. In at least one example, the header can prevent vapor from exiting the second outlet when the system is in a first cooling mode and allow vapor to exit the second outlet when the system is in a second cooling mode. In at least one example, the second cooling mode can provide a higher cooling rate or capacity than the first cooling mode.

[0008] In at least one example, the system can include a controller to control a cooling capacity, or rate, of the system by selectively covering the second outlet with the media in liquid form, thereby selectively preventing vapor from exiting the second outlet. In at least one example, the controller can control a liquid level in the header by controlling a fan of the heat source and / or any of the condensers and / or controlling a prime mover, such as a pump or a compressor, plumbed between the condensers and the heat source, thereby controlling the cooling capacity, or rate, of the system.

[0009] In at least one example, the header can be an angled pipe sloping downward from the first outlet to the second outlet. In at least one example, the header can be a pipe having a first horizontal section, a second horizontal section, and an angled section between the first horizontal section and the second horizontal section. In at least one example, the first outlet can be in the first horizontal section and / or the second outlet can be in the second horizontal section. In at least one example, the second horizontal section can be located at a lower elevation than the first horizontal section.

[0010] In at least one example, the header can be a pressure vessel. In at least one example, the pressure vessel can have a header inlet at a higher elevation than the first outlet. In at least one example, the pressure vessel can have a liquid outlet at a lower elevation than the second outlet. In at least one example, the liquid outlet can be located in a removable tank at a bottom of the pressure vessel. In at least one example, the tank can be exchanged with a larger tank to lower a liquid level in the header and / or a smaller tank to raise a liquid level in the header. In at least one example, the pressure vessel can have an internal cross sectional area that decreases with elevation within the header. In at least one example, the pressure vessel can have an internal conical post, which can have a larger lower diameter and a smaller higher diameter. In at least one example, the pressure vessel can have an internal helix, which can have spacing that decreases with elevation within the header.

[0011] In at least one example, a closed loop cooling system can include a heat exchanger that can transfer heat to a cooling media, a first condenser having a first inlet that can receive the media, a second condenser plumbed in parallel with the first condenser and having a second inlet that can receive the media, a header plumbed between the heat exchanger and the condensers, or any combination thereof. In at least one example, the header can receive the media from the heat exchanger, retain a portion of the media therein in liquid form, selectively distribute the media to the condensers, or any combination thereof. In at least one example, the header can have a header inlet fluidically coupled to the heat exchanger, a first outlet fluidically coupled to the first inlet, a second outlet fluidically coupled to the second inlet, or any combination thereof. In at least one example, the first outlet can be located on the header at a lower elevation than the header inlet and / or the second outlet can be located on the header at a lower elevation than the first outlet.

[0012] In at least one example, the header can selectively prevent vapor from exiting the second outlet, thereby selectively decreasing, or eliminating, the second condenser's capacity to remove heat from the media. In at least one example, the header can prevent vapor from exiting the second outlet when the system is in a first cooling mode and allow vapor to exit the second outlet when the system is in a second cooling mode. In at least one example, the second cooling mode can provide a higher cooling rate or capacity than the first cooling mode.

[0013] In at least one example, the system can include a controller to control a cooling capacity, or rate, of the system by selectively covering the second outlet with the media in liquid form, thereby selectively preventing vapor from exiting the second outlet. In at least one example, the controller can control a liquid level in the header by controlling a fan of the heat source and / or any of the condensers and / or controlling a prime mover, such as a pump or a compressor, plumbed between the condensers and the heat source, thereby controlling the cooling capacity, or rate, of the system.

[0014] In at least one example, the header can be an angled pipe sloping downward from the first outlet to the second outlet. In at least one example, the header can be a pipe having a first horizontal section, a second horizontal section, and an angled section between the first horizontal section and the second horizontal section. In at least one example, the first outlet can be in the first horizontal section and / or the second outlet can be in the second horizontal section. In at least one example, the second horizontal section can be located on the header at a lower elevation than the first horizontal section.

[0015] In at least one example, the header can be a pressure vessel. In at least one example, the pressure vessel can have a header inlet at a higher elevation than the first outlet. In at least one example, the pressure vessel can have a liquid outlet at a lower elevation than the second outlet. In at least one example, the liquid outlet can be located in a removable tank at a bottom of the pressure vessel. In at least one example, the tank can be exchanged with a larger tank to lower a liquid level in the header and / or a smaller tank to raise a liquid level in the header. In at least one example, the pressure vessel can have an internal cross sectional area that decreases with elevation within the header. In at least one example, the pressure vessel can have an internal conical post, which can have a larger lower diameter and a smaller higher diameter. In at least one example, the pressure vessel can have an internal helix, which can have spacing that decreases with elevation within the header.BRIEF DESCRIPTION OF THE DRAWINGS

[0016] FIG. 1 is a schematic view of one of many examples of a cooling system according to the disclosure, showing an elevational representation of a header of the system. FIG. 2 is an elevational view of one of many examples of a header according to the disclosure. FIG. 3 is another elevational view of the header of FIG. 2. FIG. 4 is an elevational view of another of many examples of a cooling system according to the disclosure, shown in one operational state. FIG. 5 is another elevational view of the cooling system of FIG. 4, shown in another operational state. FIG. 6 is yet another elevational view of the cooling system of FIG. 4, shown in yet another operational state. FIG. 7 is a partial schematic view of another of many examples of a cooling system according to the disclosure. FIG. 8 is a partial schematic view of another of many examples of a cooling system according to the disclosure. FIG. 9 is a partial schematic view of another of many examples of a cooling system according to the disclosure. FIG. 10 is a partial schematic view of another of many examples of a cooling system according to the disclosure. FIG. 11 is another example of the cooling system according to one of the examples where split condensing is off. FIG. 12 is another example of a cooling system according to one of the examples where split condensing is functioning. FIG 13. is another example of a cooling system according to one of the examples where split condensing is functioning. DETAILED DESCRIPTION

[0017] The figures described above and the written description of specific structures and functions below are not presented to limit the scope of what Applicant has invented or the scope of the appended claims. Rather, the figures and written description are provided to teach any person skilled in the art to make and use the inventions for which patent protection is sought. Those skilled in the art will appreciate that not all features of a commercial example of the inventions are described or shown for the sake of clarity and understanding. Persons of skill in this art will also appreciate that the development of an actual commercial example incorporating aspects of the present inventions will require numerous implementation-specific decisions to achieve the developer's ultimate goal for the commercial example. Such implementation-specific decisions may include, and likely are not limited to, compliance with system-related, business-related, government-related and other constraints, which may vary by specific implementation, location and from time to time. While a developer's efforts might be complex and time-consuming in an absolute sense, such efforts would be, nevertheless, a routine undertaking for those of skill in this art having benefit of this disclosure. It must be understood that the inventions disclosed and taught herein are susceptible to numerous and various modifications and alternative forms.

[0018] The use of a singular term, such as, but not limited to, "a," is not intended as limiting of the number of items. Also, the use of relational terms, such as, but not limited to, "top," "bottom," "left," "right," "upper," "lower," "down," "up," "side," and the like are used in the written description for clarity in specific reference to the figures and are not intended to limit the scope of the inventions or the appended claims. The terms "including" and "such as" are illustrative and not limitative. The terms "couple," "coupled," "coupling," "coupler," and like terms are used broadly herein and can include any method or device for securing, binding, bonding, fastening, attaching, joining, inserting therein, forming thereon or therein, communicating, or otherwise associating, for example, mechanically, magnetically, electrically, chemically, operably, directly or indirectly with intermediate elements, one or more pieces of members together and can further include without limitation integrally forming one functional member with another in a unity fashion. The coupling can occur in any direction, including rotationally. Further, all parts and components of the disclosure that are capable of being physically embodied inherently include imaginary and real characteristics regardless of whether such characteristics are expressly described herein, including but not limited to characteristics such as axes, ends, inner and outer surfaces, interior spaces, tops, bottoms, sides, boundaries, dimensions (e.g., height, length, width, thickness), mass, weight, volume and density, among others.

[0019] Any process flowcharts discussed herein illustrate the operation of possible implementations of systems, methods, and computer program products according to various examples of the present disclosure. In this regard, each block in a flowchart may represent a module, segment, or portion of code, which can comprise one or more executable instructions for implementing the specified logical function(s). It should also be noted that, in some implementations, the function(s) noted in the block(s) might occur out of the order depicted in the figures. For example, blocks shown in succession may, in fact, be executed substantially concurrently. It will also be noted that each block of flowchart illustration can be implemented by special purpose hardware-based systems that perform the specified functions or acts, or combinations of special purpose hardware and computer instructions.

[0020] Applicant has created new and useful devices, systems and methods for split condenser cooling systems. By using a liquid level in a header to block off vapor communication with a condenser, examples of the disclosure can more efficiently control the cooling capacity of a cooling system. For example, examples of the disclosure can eliminate the need for one or more flow control devices, such as valves, thereby simplifying a cooling system, minimizing costs and minimizing or eliminating one or more potential leak and / or other failure points.

[0021] FIG. 1 is a schematic view of one of many examples of a cooling system according to the disclosure, showing an elevational representation of a header of the system. FIG. 2 is an elevational view of one of many examples of a header according to the disclosure. FIG. 3 is another elevational view of the header of FIG. 2. FIG. 4 is an elevational view of another of many examples of a cooling system according to the disclosure, shown in one operational state. FIG. 5 is another elevational view of the cooling system of FIG. 4, shown in another operational state. FIG. 6 is yet another elevational view of the cooling system of FIG. 4, shown in yet another operational state. FIG. 7 is a partial schematic view of another of many examples of a cooling system according to the disclosure. FIG. 8 is a partial schematic view of another of many examples of a cooling system according to the disclosure. FIG. 9 is a partial schematic view of another of many examples of a cooling system according to the disclosure. FIG. 10 is a partial schematic view of another of many examples of a cooling system according to the disclosure. FIGS. 1-10 are described in conjunction with one another.

[0022] In at least one example, a closed loop cooling system 100 can include one or more heat sources 200 to transfer heat to a cooling media (such as a two-phase refrigerant), two or more condensers 300 (such as a first condenser 300a, a second condenser 300b and / or one or more other condensers 300n) each having an inlet 302, 302a, 302b to receive the media and an outlet 304, 304a, 304b, one or more headers 400 plumbed between the heat source 200 and the condensers 300, or any combination thereof. In at least one example, the second condenser 300b can be plumbed in parallel with the first condenser 300a. In at least one example, the header 400 can receive the media from the heat source 200 and selectively distribute the media to any or all of the condensers 300, 300a, 300b. In at least one example, the header 400 can have a number of outlets 404, such as a first outlet 404a fluidically coupled to the first inlet 302a and / or a second outlet 404b fluidically coupled to the second inlet 302b. In at least one example, the second outlet 404b can be located on the header 400 at a lower elevation than the first outlet 404a.

[0023] In at least one example, the header 400 can selectively prevent vapor from exiting any of the outlets 404, 404a, 404b, thereby selectively decreasing, or eliminating, the corresponding condenser's 300, 300a, 300b, capacity to remove heat from the media. In at least one example, the header 400 can prevent vapor from exiting the second outlet 404b when the system 100 is in a first cooling mode and allow vapor to exit the second outlet 404b when the system 100 is in a second cooling mode. In at least one example, the second cooling mode can provide a higher cooling rate or capacity than the first cooling mode.

[0024] In at least one example, the system 100 can include one or more controllers 500 to control a cooling capacity, or rate, of the system 100 by selectively covering any of the header outlets 404, 404a, 404b with the media in liquid form, thereby selectively preventing vapor from exiting the covered outlet(s). In at least one example, the controller 500 can control a liquid level in the header 400 by controlling a fan 210 of the heat source and / or fans 310, 310a, 310b of any of the condensers 300, 300a, 300b and / or controlling a prime mover 600, such as a pump or a compressor, plumbed between the condensers 300, 300a, 300b and the heat source 200, thereby controlling the cooling capacity, or rate, of the system 100.

[0025] In at least one example, the header 400 can be an angled pipe sloping downward from the first outlet 404a to the second outlet 404b. In at least one example, the header 400 can be a pipe having a first horizontal section 406a, a second horizontal section 406b, and an angled section 406c between the first horizontal section 406a and the second horizontal section 406b. In at least one example, the first outlet 404a can be in the first horizontal section 406a and / or the second outlet 404b can be in the second horizontal section 406b. In at least one example, the second horizontal section 406b can be located at a lower elevation than the first horizontal section 406a.

[0026] In at least one example, the header 400 can be a pressure vessel. In at least one example, the pressure vessel 400 can have a header inlet 402 at a higher elevation than the first outlet 404a. In at least one example, the pressure vessel 400 can have a liquid outlet 408 at a lower elevation than the second outlet 404b and one or more valves 420 downstream of the outlet 408. In at least one example, the liquid outlet 408 can be located in a removable tank 410 at a bottom of the pressure vessel 400. In at least one example, the tank 410 can be exchanged with a larger tank to lower a liquid level in the header 400 and / or a smaller tank to raise a liquid level in the header 400. In at least one example, the pressure vessel 400 can have an internal cross sectional area that decreases with elevation within the header 400. In at least one example, the pressure vessel 400 can have an internal conical post 412, which can have a larger lower diameter and a smaller higher diameter.

[0027] In at least one example, the pressure vessel 400 can have an internal helix 414, which can have spacing that decreases with elevation (i.e., the spacing decreases as elevation decreases) within the header 400 along at least a portion of the helix 414. In at least one example, the pressure vessel 400 can have an internal helix 414 with spacing that remains constant along at least a portion of the helix 414. In at least one example, the pressure vessel 400 can have an internal helix 414 with spacing that increases along at least a portion of the helix 414, such as in a direction from bottom to top (i.e., the spacing increases as elevation increases). In at least one example, the pressure vessel 400 can have an internal helix 414 with spacing that uniformly increases, decreases, or remains constant along the entire length of the helix 414. In at least one example, the pressure vessel 400 can have an internal helix 414 with spacing that changes along the length of the helix 414, which can include any combination of increasing, decreasing, and / or remaining constant, as required or desired in accordance with an implementation of the disclosure.

[0028] Any of the condensers 300, 300a, 300b and heat sources / exchangers 200 can include horizontal coils, angled coils, vertical coils, brazed plate heat exchangers, or other types of heat exchangers. In at least one example, when two or more condensers 300a, 300b are in service, the pressures at the outlets 404a, 404b of the header 400 can be equal, the pressures at the outlets 304a, 304b of the condensers 300a, 300b can be equal, the pressures at the outlets 304a, 304b of the condensers 300a, 300b can be less than the pressures at the outlets 404a, 404b of the header 400, the differential pressure between an outlet 304 of a condenser 300 and a corresponding outlet 404 of the header 400 can be close or equal to the corresponding differential pressure of another condenser, a sum of the flows through the condensers 300, 300a, 300b can be equal to a flow into the header 400, or any combination thereof. In at least one example, when one or more condensers are out of service, the pressures at the outlets 404a, 404b of the header 400 can be close or equal, the pressures at the outlets 304a, 304b of the condensers can be close or equal, the pressure at the outlet(s) 304a of an in service condenser 300a can be close or equal to the pressure at the inlet 302b of an out of service condenser 300b, the differential pressure between an outlet 304a of an in service condenser 300a and a corresponding outlet 404a of the header 400 can be less than or equal to the differential pressure between an inlet 302b of an out of service condenser 300b and a corresponding outlet 404b of the header 400, the differential pressure between an outlet 304a of an in service condenser 300a and a corresponding outlet 404a of the header 400 can be close or equal to the corresponding differential pressure of an out of service condenser 300b, a sum of the flows through the condensers 300, 300a, 300b can be equal to a flow into the header 400 with flow through the out of service condenser 300b being close or equal to zero, or any combination thereof. In at least one example, when one or more condensers are out of service, the pressures at the outlets 404a, 404b of the header 400 can be close or equal, the pressures at the outlets 304a, 304b of the condensers 300a, 300b can be close or equal, the differential pressure between an outlet 304a of an in service condenser 300a and a corresponding outlet 404a of the header 400 can be greater than or equal to the differential pressure between an inlet 302b of an out of service condenser 300b and a corresponding outlet 404b of the header 400, the differential pressure between an outlet 304a of an in service condenser 300a and a corresponding outlet 404a of the header 400 can be close or equal to the corresponding differential pressure of an out of service condenser 300b, a sum of the flows through the condensers 300a, 300b can be greater than or equal to a flow into the header 400 for a short time and then equalize, or any combination thereof.

[0029] In at least one example, a closed loop cooling system 100 can include one or more heat exchangers 200, such as an evaporator, that can transfer heat to a cooling media, one or more first condensers 300a having one or more first inlets 302a that can receive the media, one or more second condensers 300b plumbed in parallel with the first condenser 300a and having one or more second inlets 302b that can receive the media, one or more headers 400 plumbed between the heat exchanger 200 and the condensers 300a, 300b, or any combination thereof. In at least one example, the header 400 can receive the media from the heat exchanger 200, such as in the form of two-phase flow, retain a portion of the media therein in liquid form, selectively distribute the media to the condensers 300a, 300b, or any combination thereof. In at least one example, the header 400 can have a header inlet 402 fluidically coupled to the heat exchanger 200, a first outlet 404a fluidically coupled to the first inlet302a, a second outlet 404b fluidically coupled to the second inlet 302a, or any combination thereof. In at least one example, the first outlet 404a can be located on the header 400 at a lower elevation than the header inlet 402 and / or the second outlet 404b can be located on the header 400 at a lower elevation than the first outlet 404a.

[0030] In at least one example, the header 400 can selectively prevent vapor from exiting any of the outlets 404, 404a, 404b, thereby selectively decreasing, or eliminating, the corresponding condenser 300, 300a, 300b capacity to remove heat from the media. In at least one example, the header 400 can prevent vapor from exiting the second outlet 404b when the system 100 is in a first cooling mode and allow vapor to exit the second outlet 404b when the system 100 is in a second cooling mode. In at least one example, the second cooling mode can provide a higher cooling rate or capacity than the first cooling mode.

[0031] In at least one example, the system 100 can include one or more controllers 500 to control a cooling capacity, or rate, of the system 100 by selectively covering any of the header outlets 404, 404a, 404b with the media in liquid form, thereby selectively preventing vapor from exiting the covered outlet(s). In at least one example, the controller 500 can control a liquid level in the header 400 by controlling a fan 210 of the heat source and / or fans 310, 310a, 310b of any of the condensers 300, 300a, 300b and / or controlling a prime mover 600, such as a pump or a compressor, plumbed between the condensers 300, 300a, 300b and the heat source 200, thereby controlling the cooling capacity, or rate, of the system 100.

[0032] In at least one example, header 400 can be filled with liquid in any of at least three primary ways. For example, as mentioned above, header 400 can receive two-phase flow from one or more heat exchangers 200, such as an evaporator. As another example, header 400 can receive liquid by way of natural condensing of the cooling media in the piping or other system plumbing. As a further example, in at least one example, the system 100 can include one or more liquid lines 430 plumbed between a high side of the prime mover 600 and the header 400, which can include one or more valves 420 for controlling flow there through.

[0033] In at least one example, the header 400 can be an angled pipe sloping downward from the first outlet 404a to the second outlet 404b. In at least one example, the header 400 can be a pipe having a first horizontal section 406a, a second horizontal section 406b, and an angled section 406c between the first horizontal section 406a and the second horizontal section 406b. In at least one example, the first outlet 404a can be in the first horizontal section 406a and / or the second outlet 404b can be in the second horizontal section 406b. In at least one example, the second horizontal section 406b can be located at a lower elevation than the first horizontal section 406a.

[0034] In at least one example, the header 400 can be a pressure vessel. In at least one example, the pressure vessel 400 can have a header inlet 402 at a higher elevation than the first outlet 404a. In at least one example, the pressure vessel 400 can have a liquid outlet 408 at a lower elevation than the second outlet 404b. In at least one example, the liquid outlet 408 can be located in a removable tank 410 at a bottom of the pressure vessel 400. In at least one example, the tank 410 can be exchanged with a larger tank to lower a liquid level in the header 400 and / or a smaller tank to raise a liquid level in the header 400. In at least one example, the pressure vessel 400 can have an internal cross sectional area that decreases with elevation within the header 400. In at least one example, the pressure vessel 400 can have an internal conical post 412, which can have a larger lower diameter and a smaller higher diameter. In at least one example, the pressure vessel 400 can have an internal helix 414, which can have spacing that decreases with elevation within the header 400.

[0035] In at least one example, a system according to the disclosure can manage liquid at the inlet to the condenser / economization coils and can intentionally block flow into any of the condenser / economization coils. In at least one example, a system according to the disclosure can be applied to both a low load state and a higher load state. In at least one example, a system according to the disclosure can provide two phase separation, split condensing and an idle / trickle or standby flow. In at least one example, a system according to the disclosure can remove or eliminate a need for a receiver to manage overflow refrigerant, as liquid can be stored in the tank or bottom of the header while in normal operation. In at least one example, a system according to the disclosure can have liquid outlet control.

[0036] In at least one example, a system according to the disclosure can provide split condensing / economization without the need for valves in the system. Splitting a condenser can reduce its effective size by blocking operational flow to some or all condenser coils, forcing all refrigerant flow through a reduced quantity of coils. In at least one example, a system according to the disclosure can store extra refrigerant that would need to be otherwise held by a larger receiver without having a receiver. In at least one example, splitting the condenser in accordance with the disclosure can allow for vapor refrigerant to condense upstream of a condenser, providing low ambient solution for long line sets. In at least one example, a system according to the disclosure can take advantage of the effects of cold on the system to provide a method to protect itself and improve low ambient operation at the evaporator.

[0037] In at least one example, a system according to the disclosure, such as a cooling system or a system for extracting heat, can include a first condenser having an inlet for receiving a cooling media, one or more other condensers plumbed in parallel with the first condenser and having one or more other inlets for receiving the cooling media, and one or more headers plumbed between a heat source or heat exchanger and the condensers. In at least one example, a header can have one outlet for being fluidically coupled to the inlet of the first condenser and another outlet for being fluidically coupled to the inlet of another condenser, and one outlet can be located on the header at a lower elevation or position than the other outlet. In at least one example, the header can receive cooling media from one or more heat sources and can selectively distribute the cooling media to one or more condensers.

[0038] In at least one example, a closed loop cooling system can include a heat source to transfer heat to a cooling media, a first condenser having a first inlet to receive the media, a second condenser having a second inlet to receive the media, a header plumbed between the heat source and the condensers, or any combination thereof. In at least one example, the second condenser can be plumbed in parallel with the first condenser. In at least one example, the header can receive the media from the heat source and selectively distribute the media to either or both of the condensers. In at least one example, the header can have a first outlet fluidically coupled to the first inlet and / or a second outlet fluidically coupled to the second inlet. In at least one example, the second outlet can be located on the header at a lower elevation than the first outlet.

[0039] In at least one example, the header can selectively prevent vapor from exiting the second outlet, thereby selectively decreasing, or eliminating, the second condenser's capacity to remove heat from the media. In at least one example, the header can prevent vapor from exiting the second outlet when the system is in a first cooling mode and allow vapor to exit the second outlet when the system is in a second cooling mode. In at least one example, the second cooling mode can provide a higher cooling rate or capacity than the first cooling mode.

[0040] In at least one example, the system can include a controller to control a cooling capacity, or rate, of the system by selectively covering the second outlet with the media in liquid form, thereby selectively preventing vapor from exiting the second outlet. In at least one example, the controller can control a liquid level in the header by controlling a fan of the heat source and / or any of the condensers and / or controlling a prime mover, such as a pump or a compressor, plumbed between the condensers and the heat source, thereby controlling the cooling capacity, or rate, of the system.

[0041] In at least one example, the header can be an angled pipe sloping downward from the first outlet to the second outlet. In at least one example, the header can be a pipe having a first horizontal section, a second horizontal section, and an angled section between the first horizontal section and the second horizontal section. In at least one example, the first outlet can be in the first horizontal section and / or the second outlet can be in the second horizontal section. In at least one example, the second horizontal section can be located at a lower elevation than the first horizontal section.

[0042] In at least one example, the header can be a pressure vessel. In at least one example, the pressure vessel can have a header inlet at a higher elevation than the first outlet. In at least one example, the pressure vessel can have a liquid outlet at a lower elevation than the second outlet. In at least one example, the liquid outlet can be located in a removable tank at a bottom of the pressure vessel. In at least one example, the tank can be exchanged with a larger tank to lower a liquid level in the header and / or a smaller tank to raise a liquid level in the header. In at least one example, the pressure vessel can have an internal cross sectional area that decreases with elevation within the header. In at least one example, the pressure vessel can have an internal conical post, which can have a larger lower diameter and a smaller higher diameter. In at least one example, the pressure vessel can have an internal helix, which can have spacing that decreases with elevation within the header.

[0043] In at least one example, a closed loop cooling system can include a heat exchanger that can transfer heat to a cooling media, a first condenser having a first inlet that can receive the media, a second condenser plumbed in parallel with the first condenser and having a second inlet that can receive the media, a header plumbed between the heat exchanger and the condensers, or any combination thereof. In at least one example, the header can receive the media from the heat exchanger, retain a portion of the media therein in liquid form, selectively distribute the media to the condensers, or any combination thereof. In at least one example, the header can have a header inlet fluidically coupled to the heat exchanger, a first outlet fluidically coupled to the first inlet, a second outlet fluidically coupled to the second inlet, or any combination thereof. In at least one example, the first outlet can be located on the header at a lower elevation than the header inlet and / or the second outlet can be located on the header at a lower elevation than the first outlet.

[0044] In at least one example, the header can selectively prevent vapor from exiting the second outlet, thereby selectively decreasing, or eliminating, the second condenser's capacity to remove heat from the media. In at least one example, the header can prevent vapor from exiting the second outlet when the system is in a first cooling mode and allow vapor to exit the second outlet when the system is in a second cooling mode. In at least one example, the second cooling mode can provide a higher cooling rate or capacity than the first cooling mode.

[0045] In at least one example, the system can include a controller to control a cooling capacity, or rate, of the system by selectively covering the second outlet with the media in liquid form, thereby selectively preventing vapor from exiting the second outlet. In at least one example, the controller can control a liquid level in the header by controlling a fan of the heat source and / or any of the condensers and / or controlling a prime mover, such as a pump or a compressor, plumbed between the condensers and the heat source, thereby controlling the cooling capacity, or rate, of the system.

[0046] In at least one example, the header can be an angled pipe sloping downward from the first outlet to the second outlet. In at least one example, the header can be a pipe having a first horizontal section, a second horizontal section, and an angled section between the first horizontal section and the second horizontal section. In at least one example, the first outlet can be in the first horizontal section and / or the second outlet can be in the second horizontal section. In at least one example, the second horizontal section can be located on the header at a lower elevation than the first horizontal section.

[0047] In at least one example, the header can be a pressure vessel. In at least one example, the pressure vessel can have a header inlet at a higher elevation than the first outlet. In at least one example, the pressure vessel can have a liquid outlet at a lower elevation than the second outlet. In at least one example, the liquid outlet can be located in a removable tank at a bottom of the pressure vessel. In at least one example, the tank can be exchanged with a larger tank to lower a liquid level in the header and / or a smaller tank to raise a liquid level in the header. In at least one example, the pressure vessel can have an internal cross sectional area that decreases with elevation within the header. In at least one example, the pressure vessel can have an internal conical post, which can have a larger lower diameter and a smaller higher diameter. In at least one example, the pressure vessel can have an internal helix, which can have spacing that decreases with elevation within the header.

[0048] Other and further examples utilizing one or more aspects of the disclosure can be devised without departing from the Applicant's disclosure. For example, the devices, systems and methods can be implemented for numerous different types and sizes in numerous different industries. Further, the various methods and examples of the devices, systems and methods can be included in combination with each other to produce variations of the disclosed methods and examples. Discussion of singular elements can include plural elements and vice versa. The order of steps can occur in a variety of sequences unless otherwise specifically limited. The various steps described herein can be combined with other steps, interlineated with the stated steps, and / or split into multiple steps. Similarly, elements have been described functionally and can be embodied as separate components or can be combined into components having multiple functions. Figure 11 is another example of the cooling system according to one of the examples where split condensing is off, whilst Figures 12 and 13 are examples of the cooling system according to one of the examples where split condensing is functioning.

[0049] Further examples are set out on the clauses below: 1.A system for extracting heat from a heat source with a cooling media, the system comprising: a first condenser having a first inlet configured to receive the cooling media; a second condenser plumbed in parallel with the first condenser and having a second inlet configured to receive the cooling media; and a header configured to be plumbed between the heat source and the condensers, the header having a first outlet configured to be fluidically coupled to the first inlet and a second outlet configured to be fluidically coupled to the second inlet, wherein the second outlet is located on the header at a lower elevation than the first outlet; wherein the header is configured to receive the cooling media from the heat source and selectively distribute the cooling media to at least one of the first and second condensers. 2.The system of clause 1, further including a controller configured to control a liquid level in the header by controlling a fan of the second condenser, such that the second outlet is selectively covered with the cooling media in liquid form thereby selectively preventing vapor from exiting the second outlet. 3.The system of clause 1 or 2, further including a controller configured to control a liquid level in the header by controlling a fan of the heat source, such that the second outlet is selectively covered with the cooling media in liquid form thereby selectively preventing vapor from exiting the second outlet. 4.The system of any one of the preceding clauses, further including a controller configured to control a liquid level in the header by controlling a prime mover plumbed between the condensers and the heat source, such that the second outlet is selectively covered with the cooling media in liquid form thereby selectively preventing vapor from exiting the second outlet. 5.The system of any one of the preceding clauses, wherein the header comprises an angled pipe sloping downward from the first outlet to the second outlet. 6.The system of any one of the preceding clauses, wherein the header comprises a pipe having a first horizontal section, a second horizontal section, and an angled section between the first horizontal section and the second horizontal section; wherein the first outlet is in the first horizontal section and the second outlet is in the second horizontal section; and wherein the second horizontal section is located at a lower elevation than the first horizontal section. 7.The system of any one of the preceding clauses, wherein the header comprises a pressure vessel having a header inlet at a higher elevation than the first outlet. 8.The system of any one of the preceding clauses, wherein the header comprises a pressure vessel having a liquid outlet at a lower elevation than the second outlet. 9.The system of clause 8, wherein the liquid outlet is located in a removable tank at a bottom of the pressure vessel. 10.The system of clause 9, wherein the tank is configured to be exchanged with a larger tank to lower a liquid level in the header. 11.The system of clause 9, wherein the tank is configured to be exchanged with a smaller tank to raise a liquid level in the header. 12.The system of any one of the preceding clauses, wherein the header comprises a pressure vessel having an internal cross sectional area that decreases with elevation within the header. 13.The system of any one of the preceding clauses, wherein the header comprises a pressure vessel having an internal conical post with a larger lower diameter and a smaller higher diameter. 14.The system of any one of the preceding clauses, wherein the header comprises a pressure vessel having an internal helix with spacing that remains constant along a length of the helix or decreases as elevation decreases within the header. 15.The system of any one of the preceding clauses, wherein the header is configured to prevent vapor from exiting the second outlet when the system is in a first cooling mode and to allow vapor to exit the second outlet when the system is in a second cooling mode; and wherein the second cooling mode provides a higher cooling rate than the first cooling mode. 16.A system for extracting heat from a heat exchanger with a cooling media, the system comprising: a first condenser having a first inlet configured to receive the cooling media; a second condenser plumbed in parallel with the first condenser and having a second inlet configured to receive the cooling media; and a header configured to be plumbed between the heat exchanger and the condensers and having a header inlet configured to be fluidically coupled to the heat exchanger; a first outlet configured to be fluidically coupled to the first inlet, wherein the first outlet is located on the header at a lower elevation than the header inlet; and a second outlet configured to be fluidically coupled to the second inlet, wherein the second outlet is located on the header at a lower elevation than the first outlet; wherein the header is configured to receive the cooling media from the heat exchanger, retain a portion of the cooling media therein in liquid form, and selectively distribute the cooling media to at least one of the first and second condensers. 17.The system of clause 16, further including a controller configured to control a liquid level in the header by controlling a fan of the second condenser, such that the second outlet is selectively covered with the cooling media in liquid form thereby selectively preventing vapor from exiting the second outlet. 18.The system of clause 16 or 17, further including a controller configured to control a liquid level in the header by controlling a fan of the heat exchanger, such that the second outlet is selectively covered with the cooling media in liquid form thereby selectively preventing vapor from exiting the second outlet. 19.The system of clause 16, further including a controller configured to control a liquid level in the header by controlling a pump configured to pump the cooling media from the condensers to the heat exchanger, such that the second outlet is selectively covered with the cooling media in liquid form thereby selectively preventing vapor from exiting the second outlet. 20.The system of any one of clauses 16-19, wherein the header is configured to prevent vapor from exiting the second outlet when the system is in a first cooling mode and to allow vapor to exit the second outlet when the system is in a second cooling mode; and wherein the second cooling mode provides more cooling capacity than the first cooling mode. 21.The system of any one of the preceding clauses, further comprising at least one of the cooling media, the heat source and a combination thereof. 22.The system of any one of clauses 16-21, further comprising at least one of the cooling media, the heat exchanger and a combination thereof. 23. A method as shown and / or described herein. 24. A system as shown and / or described herein. 25. A device as shown and / or described herein.

[0050] Yet further examples are set out in the items below: 1.A system for extracting heat from a heat source with a cooling media, the system comprising: a first condenser having a first inlet configured to receive the cooling media; a second condenser plumbed in parallel with the first condenser and having a second inlet configured to receive the cooling media; and a header configured to be plumbed between the heat source and the condensers, the header having a first outlet configured to be fluidically coupled to the first inlet and a second outlet configured to be fluidically coupled to the second inlet, wherein the second outlet is located on the header at a lower elevation than the first outlet; wherein the header is configured to receive the cooling media from the heat source and selectively distribute the cooling media to at least one of the first and second condensers. 2.The system of item 1, further including a controller configured to control a liquid level in the header by controlling a fan of the second condenser, such that the second outlet is selectively covered with the cooling media in liquid form thereby selectively preventing vapor from exiting the second outlet. 3.The system of item 1 or 2, further including a controller configured to control a liquid level in the header by controlling a fan of the heat source, such that the second outlet is selectively covered with the cooling media in liquid form thereby selectively preventing vapor from exiting the second outlet. 4.The system of any one of the preceding items, further including a controller configured to control a liquid level in the header by controlling a prime mover plumbed between the condensers and the heat source, such that the second outlet is selectively covered with the cooling media in liquid form thereby selectively preventing vapor from exiting the second outlet. 5.The system of item 1, wherein the header comprises an angled pipe sloping downward from the first outlet to the second outlet. 6.The system of any one of the preceding items, wherein the header comprises a pipe having a first horizontal section, a second horizontal section, and an angled section between the first horizontal section and the second horizontal section; wherein the first outlet is in the first horizontal section and the second outlet is in the second horizontal section; and wherein the second horizontal section is located at a lower elevation than the first horizontal section. 7.The system of any one of the preceding items, wherein the header comprises a pressure vessel having a header inlet at a higher elevation than the first outlet. 8.The system of any one of the preceding items, wherein the header comprises a pressure vessel having a liquid outlet at a lower elevation than the second outlet. 9.The system of item 8, wherein the liquid outlet is located in a removable tank at a bottom of the pressure vessel. 10.The system of item 9, wherein the tank is configured to be exchanged with a larger tank to lower a liquid level in the header. 11.The system of item 9, wherein the tank is configured to be exchanged with a smaller tank to raise a liquid level in the header. 12.The system of any one of the preceding items, wherein the header comprises a pressure vessel having an internal cross sectional area that decreases with elevation within the header. 13.The system of any one of the preceding items, wherein the header comprises a pressure vessel having an internal conical post with a larger lower diameter and a smaller higher diameter. 14.The system of any one of the preceding items, wherein the header comprises a pressure vessel having an internal helix with spacing that remains constant along a length of the helix or decreases as elevation decreases within the header. 15.The system of any one of the preceding items, wherein the header is configured to prevent vapor from exiting the second outlet when the system is in a first cooling mode and to allow vapor to exit the second outlet when the system is in a second cooling mode; and wherein the second cooling mode provides a higher cooling rate than the first cooling mode. 16.A system for extracting heat from a heat exchanger with a cooling media, the system comprising: a first condenser having a first inlet configured to receive the cooling media; a second condenser plumbed in parallel with the first condenser and having a second inlet configured to receive the cooling media; and a header configured to be plumbed between the heat exchanger and the condensers and having a header inlet configured to be fluidically coupled to the heat exchanger; a first outlet configured to be fluidically coupled to the first inlet, wherein the first outlet is located on the header at a lower elevation than the header inlet; and a second outlet configured to be fluidically coupled to the second inlet, wherein the second outlet is located on the header at a lower elevation than the first outlet; wherein the header is configured to receive the cooling media from the heat exchanger, retain a portion of the cooling media therein in liquid form, and selectively distribute the cooling media to at least one of the first and second condensers. 17.The system of item 16, further including a controller configured to control a liquid level in the header by controlling a fan of the second condenser, such that the second outlet is selectively covered with the cooling media in liquid form thereby selectively preventing vapor from exiting the second outlet. 18.The system of item 16 or 17, further including a controller configured to control a liquid level in the header by controlling a fan of the heat exchanger, such that the second outlet is selectively covered with the cooling media in liquid form thereby selectively preventing vapor from exiting the second outlet. 19.The system of any one of items 16-18, further including a controller configured to control a liquid level in the header by controlling a pump configured to pump the cooling media from the condensers to the heat exchanger, such that the second outlet is selectively covered with the cooling media in liquid form thereby selectively preventing vapor from exiting the second outlet. 20.The system of any one of items 16-19, wherein the header is configured to prevent vapor from exiting the second outlet when the system is in a first cooling mode and to allow vapor to exit the second outlet when the system is in a second cooling mode; and wherein the second cooling mode provides more cooling capacity than the first cooling mode.

Claims

1. A system for extracting heat from a heat source with a cooling media, the system comprising: a first condenser having a first inlet configured to receive the cooling media; a second condenser plumbed in parallel with the first condenser and having a second inlet configured to receive the cooling media; and a header configured to be plumbed between the heat source and the condensers, the header having a first outlet configured to be fluidically coupled to the first inlet and a second outlet configured to be fluidically coupled to the second inlet, wherein the second outlet is located on the header at a lower elevation than the first outlet; wherein the header is configured to receive the cooling media from the heat source and selectively distribute the cooling media to at least one of the first and second condensers.

2. The system of claim 1, further including a controller configured to control a liquid level in the header by controlling a fan of the second condenser, such that the second outlet is selectively covered with the cooling media in liquid form thereby selectively preventing vapor from exiting the second outlet.

3. The system of claim 1 or 2, further including a controller configured to control a liquid level in the header by controlling a fan of the heat source, such that the second outlet is selectively covered with the cooling media in liquid form thereby selectively preventing vapor from exiting the second outlet.

4. The system of any one of the preceding claims, further including a controller configured to control a liquid level in the header by controlling a prime mover plumbed between the condensers and the heat source, such that the second outlet is selectively covered with the cooling media in liquid form thereby selectively preventing vapor from exiting the second outlet.

5. The system of any one of the preceding claims, wherein the header comprises an angled pipe sloping downward from the first outlet to the second outlet.

6. The system of any one of the preceding claims, wherein the header comprises a pipe having a first horizontal section, a second horizontal section, and an angled section between the first horizontal section and the second horizontal section; wherein the first outlet is in the first horizontal section and the second outlet is in the second horizontal section; and wherein the second horizontal section is located at a lower elevation than the first horizontal section.

7. The system of any one of the preceding claims, wherein the header comprises a pressure vessel having a header inlet at a higher elevation than the first outlet.

8. The system of any one of the preceding claims, wherein the header comprises a pressure vessel having a liquid outlet at a lower elevation than the second outlet.

9. The system of claim 8, wherein the liquid outlet is located in a removable tank at a bottom of the pressure vessel.

10. The system of claim 9, wherein the tank is configured to be exchanged with a larger tank to lower a liquid level in the header.

11. The system of claim 9, wherein the tank is configured to be exchanged with a smaller tank to raise a liquid level in the header.

12. The system of any one of the preceding claims, wherein the header comprises a pressure vessel having an internal cross sectional area that decreases with elevation within the header.

13. The system of any one of the preceding claims, wherein the header comprises a pressure vessel having an internal conical post with a larger lower diameter and a smaller higher diameter; or optionally wherein the header comprises a pressure vessel having an internal helix with spacing that remains constant along a length of the helix or decreases as elevation decreases within the header; or optionally wherein the header is configured to prevent vapor from exiting the second outlet when the system is in a first cooling mode and to allow vapor to exit the second outlet when the system is in a second cooling mode; and wherein the second cooling mode provides a higher cooling rate than the first cooling mode.

14. A system for extracting heat from a heat exchanger with a cooling media, the system comprising: a first condenser having a first inlet configured to receive the cooling media; a second condenser plumbed in parallel with the first condenser and having a second inlet configured to receive the cooling media; and a header configured to be plumbed between the heat exchanger and the condensers and having a header inlet configured to be fluidically coupled to the heat exchanger; a first outlet configured to be fluidically coupled to the first inlet, wherein the first outlet is located on the header at a lower elevation than the header inlet; and a second outlet configured to be fluidically coupled to the second inlet, wherein the second outlet is located on the header at a lower elevation than the first outlet; wherein the header is configured to receive the cooling media from the heat exchanger, retain a portion of the cooling media therein in liquid form, and selectively distribute the cooling media to at least one of the first and second condensers.

15. The system of claim 14, further including a controller configured to control a liquid level in the header by controlling a fan of the second condenser, such that the second outlet is selectively covered with the cooling media in liquid form thereby selectively preventing vapor from exiting the second outlet; or optionally further including a controller configured to control a liquid level in the header by controlling a fan of the heat exchanger, such that the second outlet is selectively covered with the cooling media in liquid form thereby selectively preventing vapor from exiting the second outlet; or optionally further including a controller configured to control a liquid level in the header by controlling a pump configured to pump the cooling media from the condensers to the heat exchanger, such that the second outlet is selectively covered with the cooling media in liquid form thereby selectively preventing vapor from exiting the second outlet; or optionally wherein the header is configured to prevent vapor from exiting the second outlet when the system is in a first cooling mode and to allow vapor to exit the second outlet when the system is in a second cooling mode; and wherein the second cooling mode provides more cooling capacity than the first cooling mode.

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