Heat source device

Abstract

A heat source apparatus (1) includes: a water heat exchanger (15) included in a refrigerant circuit (11); a cylinder (71) storing a flammable refrigerant and having, in a lower portion, a discharge port (71a) through which the flammable refrigerant is discharged; a casing (21) configured to house the water heat exchanger and the cylinder. A first water pipe (41) and a second water pipe (42) are connected to the water heat exchanger. A rear panel (27) of the casing has insertion ports (IP) for insertion of the first water pipe and the second water pipe. A front panel (26) of the casing has an access port (AP) that allows access to the cylinder.

Description

TECHNICAL FIELD

[0001] The present disclosure relates to a heat source apparatus.BACKGROUND ART

[0002] Patent Document 1 discloses a heat source apparatus including a water heat exchanger included in a refrigerant circuit. The water heat exchanger is housed in a casing. A water pipe is connected to the water heat exchanger. The water pipe is inserted into an opening formed in the casing, and is drawn out of the casing.CITATION LISTPATENT DOCUMENT

[0003] Patent Document 1: Japanese Unexamined Patent Publication No. 2007-155276SUMMARY OF THE INVENTIONTECHNICAL PROBLEM

[0004] The inventors of this application have created a configuration in which a cylinder is provided in the casing of a heat source apparatus. The cylinder stores refrigerant with which a refrigerant circuit is to be filled. Thus, when the heat source apparatus is installed, the refrigerant circuit can be filled with the refrigerant from the cylinder. This eliminates the need for separately preparing refrigerant for filling the circuit. On the other hand, the following typical problem occurs in a configuration in which flammable refrigerant is used as the refrigerant and the cylinder is provided in the casing.

[0005] During installation of the heat source apparatus on site, a pipe for supplying water to the water heat exchanger and a pipe for discharging water heated by the water heat exchanger are connected to a connecting port of the water pipe. During the installation of the water pipe, the operator tightens the water pipe by applying force with a tool such as a spanner to fasten an external pipe to the connecting port of the water pipe. If the cylinder is located near the installation position of the water pipe, the water pipe is installed with the sheet metal forming the casing partially removed. Accordingly, there is a risk that the operator may accidentally strike the cylinder with the tool and cause damage if the tool slips off the fastening portion of the water pipe while the operator is applying force to the tool. If the cylinder is damaged, the refrigerant may leak into the air.

[0006] It is an object of the present disclosure to reduce the risk of damaging a cylinder with a tool during installation of a water pipe.SOLUTION TO THE PROBLEM

[0007] A first aspect of the present disclosure is directed to a heat source apparatus (1). The heat source apparatus (1) includes: a water heat exchanger (15) included in a refrigerant circuit (11) configured to perform a refrigeration cycle; a cylinder (71) storing a flammable refrigerant for filling the refrigerant circuit (11), the cylinder (71) having, in a lower portion, a discharge port (71a) through which the flammable refrigerant is discharged; and a casing (21) configured to house the water heat exchanger (15) and the cylinder (71). To the water heat exchanger (15), a water pipe (41a, 42a) through which water flows is connected. The casing (21) has a first surface portion (27) and a second surface portion (24, 26) different from each other. The first surface portion (27) has a first opening (IP) into which the water pipe (41a, 42a) is inserted. The second surface portion (24, 26) has a second opening (AP) that allows access to the cylinder (71).

[0008] According to the first aspect, the first opening (IP) through which the water pipe (41a, 42a) is inserted and the second opening (AP) that allows access to the cylinder (71) are formed separately in the first surface portion (27) and second surface portion (24, 26) of the casing (21) which are different from each other. This makes it possible to reduce the risk of damaging the cylinder (71) with a tool during installation of the water pipe (41, 42).

[0009] A second aspect of the present disclosure is an embodiment of the heat source apparatus (1) of the first aspect. In the second aspect, the first surface portion (27) and the second surface portion (24, 26) face each other.

[0010] According to the second aspect, the first opening (IP) and the second opening (AP) are formed separately in the opposing surface portions of the casing (21). Thus, the cylinder (71) can be disposed away from the installation position of the water pipe (41, 42). This makes it possible to effectively reduce the risk of damaging the cylinder (71) with a tool during installation of the water pipe (41, 42).

[0011] A third aspect of the present disclosure is an embodiment of the heat source apparatus (1) of the first or second aspect. In the third aspect, the heat source apparatus (1) further includes: an air heat exchanger (13) included in the refrigerant circuit (11); and a fan (30) configured to transfer air that exchanges heat with the air heat exchanger (13). The first surface portion (27) is a rear surface portion (27) facing a side opposite to a discharge side of the air transferred by the fan (30). The second surface portion (24, 26) is a front surface portion (26) facing the discharge side of the air transferred by the fan (30) or a side surface portion (24) provided between the front surface portion (26) and the rear surface portion (27).

[0012] According to the third aspect, the first opening (IP) is formed in the rear surface portion (27) of the casing (21). Thus, the heat source apparatus (1) has a favorable appearance after installation. In particular, in a case where the second opening (AP) is formed in the front surface portion (26) of the casing (21), the cylinder (71) can be disposed away from the installation position of the water pipe (41, 42), and the risk of damaging the cylinder (71) with a tool during installation of the water pipe (41, 42) can be effectively reduced.

[0013] A fourth aspect of the present disclosure is an embodiment of the heat source apparatus (1) of any one of the first to third aspects. In the fourth aspect, the water heat exchanger (15) is located between the cylinder (71) and the water pipe (41a, 42a).

[0014] According to the fourth aspect, the water heat exchanger (15) is located between the cylinder (71) and the water pipe (41a, 42a). This enables the water heat exchanger (15) to protect the cylinder (71) during installation of the water pipe (41, 42), thereby reducing the risk of a tool coming into contact with the cylinder (71).

[0015] A fifth aspect of the present disclosure is an embodiment of the heat source apparatus (1) of any one of the first to fourth aspects. In the fifth aspect, a connection pipe (72) connecting the cylinder (71) and the refrigerant circuit (11) is connected to the discharge port (71a). The connection pipe (72) is provided with a shut-off valve (73). A protection member (74) surrounding an upstream pipe portion (72a) and the shut-off valve (73) is provided below the cylinder (71), the upstream pipe portion (72a) being a portion of the connection pipe (72) that is closer to the discharge port (71a) than the shut-off valve (73). The protection member (74) has a third opening (76a) that allows access to the shut-off valve (73). The third opening (76a) is open toward the second surface portion (24, 26).

[0016] According to the fifth aspect, the upstream pipe portion (72a) of the connection pipe (72) and the shut-off valve (73) are surrounded by the protection member (74). This makes it possible to protect the upstream pipe portion (72a) and the shut-off valve (73) from vibration during transportation of the heat source apparatus (1), impact due to fall of the heat source apparatus (1), or the like. Since the protection member (74) has the third opening (76a) that allows access to the shut-off valve (73) and opens toward the second surface portion (24, 26), the access to the shut-off valve (73) can be made through the second opening (AP) and the third opening (76a) even after the installation of the heat source apparatus (1).

[0017] A sixth aspect of the present disclosure is an embodiment of the heat source apparatus (1) of any one of the first to fifth aspects. In the sixth aspect, the heat source apparatus (1) further includes: a compressor (12) included in the refrigerant circuit (11). The second opening (AP) is also used as an opening that allows access to the compressor (12).

[0018] According to the sixth aspect, the second opening (AP) is also used as an opening that allows access to the compressor (12). Thus, maintenance can be performed on the compressor (12) through the second opening (AP).

[0019] A seventh aspect of the present disclosure is an embodiment of the heat source apparatus (1) of the sixth aspect. In the seventh aspect, the cylinder (71) and the compressor (12) are horizontally offset from each other when viewed from a front of the second opening (AP). A distance between the compressor (12) and the second surface portion (24) is longer than a distance between the cylinder (71) and the second surface portion (24).

[0020] According to the seventh aspect, the compressor (12) is horizontally offset from the cylinder (71) when viewed from the front of the second opening (AP), and is located farther from the second surface portion (24) than the cylinder (71); therefore, the space (WS) can be provided between the compressor (12) and the second surface portion (24). The space (WS) can be used as a workspace for performing tasks to access the cylinder (71).

[0021] An eighth aspect of the present disclosure is an embodiment of the heat source apparatus (1) of the seventh aspect. In the eighth aspect, a connection pipe (72) connecting the cylinder (71) and the refrigerant circuit (11) is connected to the discharge port (71a). The connection pipe (72) is provided with a shut-off valve (73). A protection member (74) surrounding an upstream pipe portion (72a) and the shut-off valve (73) is provided below the cylinder (71), the upstream pipe portion (72a) being a portion of the connection pipe (72) that is closer to the discharge port (71a) than the shut-off valve (73). The protection member (74) has a third opening (76a) that allows access to the shut-off valve (73). The third opening (76a) is open toward a space between the compressor (12) and the second surface portion (24).

[0022] According to the eighth aspect, the third opening (76a) of the protection member (74) is open toward the space (WS) between the compressor (12) and the second surface portion (24). This makes it easy to perform tasks to access the cylinder (71) and the shut-off valve (73), using the space (WS) between the compressor (12) and the second surface portion (24) as the workspace. Moreover, the length of the connection pipe (72) can be shortened by drawing the connection pipe (72) from the third opening (76a) through the space (WS).

[0023] A ninth aspect of the present disclosure is an embodiment of the heat source apparatus (1) of any one of the first to eighth aspects. In the ninth aspect, the water pipe (41a, 42a) has a connecting port (41c, 42c) to which an external pipe (41b, 42b) is connected. An outer diameter of the connecting port (41c, 42c) is 15 mm or more.

[0024] According to the ninth aspect, the outer diameter of the connecting port (41c, 42c) of the water pipe (41a, 42a) is 15 mm or more, which is relatively large. In this case, the operator needs to apply force to a tool to tighten the water pipe (41, 42) during installation of them. If the tool slips off the fastening portion of the water pipe (41, 42) while the operator is applying force to the tool, the tool may accidentally strike an object around the installation position of the water pipe (41, 42) and may damage the object. The technique of the present disclosure is particularly effective when the connecting port (41c, 42c) of the water pipe (41a, 42a) is thick as in this case.BRIEF DESCRIPTION OF THE DRAWINGS

[0025] [FIG. 1] FIG. 1 is a schematic piping system diagram of a refrigerant circuit of a heat source apparatus of an embodiment. [FIG. 2] FIG. 2 is a schematic perspective view of an outdoor unit. [FIG. 3] FIG. 3 is a front view of the outdoor unit with an access port on the front side of a machine chamber open. [FIG. 4] FIG. 4 is a plan view schematically illustrating the inside of the outdoor unit. [FIG. 5] FIG. 5 is a right side view of the inside of the outdoor unit with a side plate removed. [FIG. 6] FIG. 6 is a schematic perspective view of a filler unit. [FIG. 7] FIG. 7 is a plan view schematically illustrating the inside of the outdoor unit with the access port on the front side of the machine chamber open. [FIG. 8] FIG. 8 is a plan view schematically illustrating the inside of an outdoor unit of a variation. [FIG. 9] FIG. 9 is a plan view schematically illustrating the inside of an outdoor unit of another embodiment. [FIG. 10] FIG. 10 is a plan view schematically illustrating the inside of an outdoor unit of still another embodiment. DESCRIPTION OF EMBODIMENTS

[0026] Exemplary embodiments will be described in detail below with reference to the drawings. The drawings are used for conceptual description of the present disclosure. In the drawings, dimensions, ratios, or numbers may be exaggerated or simplified for easy understanding of the present disclosure.(1) Basic Configuration of Heat Source Apparatus

[0027] A heat source apparatus (1) of this embodiment forms a refrigeration cycle apparatus that performs a refrigeration cycle. The refrigeration cycle apparatus is applied to a hot water supply apparatus. The heat source apparatus (1) heats water and supplies the heated water to a target. The heat source apparatus (1) has an outdoor unit (20) installed outdoors. The outdoor unit (20) has a casing (21).

[0028] The casing (21) houses the entirety of a refrigerant circuit (11), which is a closed circuit. That is, the casing (21) houses a compressor (12), a water heat exchanger (15), a cylinder (71), and other components forming the refrigerant circuit (11). The refrigerant circuit (11) performs the refrigeration cycle. The refrigerant circuit (11) is filled with refrigerant. The refrigerant in the refrigerant circuit (11) is flammable refrigerant.

[0029] Specifically, the refrigerant in this embodiment is propane (R290). Propane is highly flammable natural refrigerant. The natural refrigerant is a refrigerant which has an ozone depletion potential of zero and a low global warming potential and thus has less impact on the environment. Propane ignites at 500°C or less. The flammable refrigerant may be methane (R50), ethane (R170), butane (R600), isobutane (R600a), or the like. The natural refrigerant may be corrosive refrigerant such as ammonia (R717).(1-1) Refrigerant Circuit

[0030] As shown in FIG. 1, the refrigerant circuit (11) includes the compressor (12), an air heat exchanger (13), an expansion valve (14), the water heat exchanger (15), and the cylinder (71) as main components. The refrigerant circuit (11) further has a four-way switching valve (16) and an accumulator (17).

[0031] The compressor (12) compresses the refrigerant. A discharge pipe (18) is connected to the discharge side of the compressor (12). A suction pipe (19) is connected to the suction side of the compressor (12). The accumulator (17) stores liquid in the refrigerant to be sucked into the compressor (12). The air heat exchanger (13) exchanges heat between the refrigerant and outdoor air. The expansion valve (14) decompresses the refrigerant. The water heat exchanger (15) exchanges heat between the refrigerant in the refrigerant circuit (11) and water in a water circuit (40).

[0032] The four-way switching valve (16) switches a direction in which the refrigerant circulates. The four-way switching valve (16) switches between a first state and a second state. The first state is a state in which a first port (16a) and a third port (16c) communicate with each other and a second port (16b) and a fourth port (16d) communicate with each other (the state indicated by a solid line in FIG. 1). The second state is a state in which the first port (16a) and the second port (16b) communicate with each other and the third port (16c) and the fourth port (16d) communicate with each other (the state indicated by a broken line in FIG. 1).

[0033] The cylinder (71) is connected to the refrigerant circuit (11) via a connection pipe (72). The connection pipe (72) of this embodiment is connected to the suction pipe (19). The connection pipe (72) is provided with a control valve (73). The cylinder (71) is filled with the refrigerant before shipping of the heat source apparatus (1). An operator decompresses the refrigerant circuit (11) after the heat source apparatus (1) has been transported to the site. Then, when the operator opens the control valve (73), the refrigerant circuit (11) is filled with the refrigerant in the cylinder (71).

[0034] The refrigerant circuit (11) performs a first refrigeration cycle and a second refrigeration cycle. In FIG. 1, the flow of refrigerant in the first refrigeration cycle is indicated by solid arrows, and the flow of refrigerant in the second refrigeration cycle is indicated by broken arrows. In the first refrigeration cycle, the four-way switching valve (16) is in the first state, where the water heat exchanger (15) functions as a radiator (a condenser) and the air heat exchanger (13) functions as an evaporator. In the second refrigeration cycle, the four-way switching valve (16) is in the second state, where the air heat exchanger (13) functions as a radiator (a condenser) and the water heat exchanger (15) functions as an evaporator.(1-2) Water Circuit

[0035] The water circuit (40) is connected to the water heat exchanger (15). The water circuit (40) includes a first water pipe (41) and a second water pipe (42). Each of the first water pipe (41) and the second water pipe (42) is a water pipe through which water flows, and is connected to the water heat exchanger (15). The first water pipe (41) forms a pipe upstream of the water heat exchanger (15). The second water pipe (42) forms a pipe downstream of the water heat exchanger (15).

[0036] The first water pipe (41) includes a first heat-source-side pipe (41a) and a first connection pipe (41b). The first heat-source-side pipe (41a) is included in the outdoor unit (20). The first heat-source-side pipe (41a) is connected to the water heat exchanger (15). The first connection pipe (41b) is a pipe outside the outdoor unit (20) and is connected to a first connecting port (41c) on a portion of the first heat-source-side pipe (41a) that extends to the outside of the outdoor unit (20).

[0037] The second water pipe (42) includes a second heat-source-side pipe (42a) and a second connection pipe (42b). The second heat-source-side pipe (42a) is included in the outdoor unit (20). The second heat-source-side pipe (42a) is connected to the water heat exchanger (15). The second connection pipe (42b) is a pipe outside the outdoor unit (20) and is connected to a second connecting port (42c) on a portion of the second heat-source-side pipe (42a) that extends to the outside of the outdoor unit (20).

[0038] A pump (43) is connected to the water circuit (40). The pump (43) delivers water in the water circuit (40). The water in the water circuit (40) is supplied to a target such as a boiler tank, an air-conditioning unit, and a floor heating unit. A gas-liquid separator (44) is connected to the water circuit (40). The gas-liquid separator (44) releases, to the atmosphere, the refrigerant that has leaked from the refrigerant circuit (11) to the water circuit (40) via the water heat exchanger (15).(2) Outdoor Unit

[0039] The configuration of the outdoor unit (20) will be described in detail with reference to FIGS. 2 to 5. In the following description, the terms for the directions such as "top," "bottom," "right," "left," "front," and "rear" refer to the directions of arrows in FIG. 2. The outdoor unit (20) includes the casing (21), the devices of the refrigerant circuit (11), and the devices of the water circuit (40).

[0040] In addition to the elements described above, the devices of the refrigerant circuit (11) include a refrigerant pipe, an electromagnetic valve, an internal heat exchanger, a filter, a thermal insulator for piping, and the like. The devices of the water circuit (40) include the above-described water heat exchanger (15), the first heat-source-side pipe (41a), the second heat-source-side pipe (42a), and the like. The outdoor unit (20) further includes a partitioning member (45), which divides the interior of the casing (21), and a fan (30) that delivers outdoor air.(2-1) Casing and Partitioning Member

[0041] The casing (21) is installed outdoors. The casing (21) is formed in a hollow box shape. More precisely, the casing (21) is formed in a box shape, with the left and rear surfaces partially open. The casing (21) is formed in a rectangular parallelepiped shape, with its left-right direction as a longitudinal direction and its front-rear direction as a lateral direction. The casing (21) is formed by a metal plate.

[0042] The casing (21) has a top panel (22), a bottom plate (23), a right panel (24), a left panel (25), a front panel (26), and a rear panel (27). The top panel (22), the bottom plate (23), the right panel (24), the left panel (25), the front panel (26), and the rear panel (27) form different surface portions of the casing (21). The top panel (22) and the bottom plate (23) face each other. The right panel (24) and the left panel (25) face each other. The front panel (26) and the rear panel (27) face each other.

[0043] The top panel (22) forms the upper surface of the casing (21). The bottom plate (23) forms the lower surface of the casing (21). The right panel (24) forms the right surface of the casing (21). The left panel (25) forms the left surface of the casing (21). The left panel (25) is located closer to the front of the casing (21), and is continuous with the front panel (26). The right panel (24) and the left panel (25) are examples of side plates provided between the front panel (26) and the rear panel (27).

[0044] The front panel (26) forms the front surface of the casing (21). The front panel (26) faces the discharge side of the air transferred by the fan (30). The front panel (26) is an example of a second surface portion. The rear panel (27) forms the rear surface of the casing (21). The rear panel (27) faces the side opposite to the discharge side of the air transferred by the fan (30). The rear panel (27) is an example of a first surface portion.

[0045] The front panel (26) has an access port (AP) that allows access to the cylinder (71). The access port (AP) is also used as an opening that allows access to the compressor (12). The access port (AP) is an example of a second opening. The rear panel (27) is located closer to the right of the casing (21), and is continuous with the right panel (24). The rear panel (27) has insertion ports (IP) for insertion of the first heat-source-side pipe (41a) and the second heat-source-side pipe (42a). The insertion ports (IP) are an example of a first opening.

[0046] The partitioning member (45) is provided in the casing (21). The partitioning member (45) extends from the bottom plate (23) to the top panel (22). The partitioning member (45) extends in the front-rear direction in top view. The partitioning member (45) may have a curved shape or a bent shape in top view, or may be formed in a curved configuration. The partitioning member (45) divides the interior of the casing (21) into a fan chamber (S1) and a machine chamber (S2). The fan chamber (S1) is formed on the left side in the casing (21). The machine chamber (S2) is formed on the right side in the casing (21).

[0047] The casing (21) has an inlet port (28) and an outlet port (29). The inlet port (28) is formed in part of the casing (21) that is from the rear surface to the left surface of the fan chamber (S1). The outlet port (29) is formed in part of the front panel (26) of the casing (21) on the front side of the fan chamber (S1). In the fan chamber (S1), a flow path through which the outdoor air flows is formed from the inlet port (28) to the outlet port (29).(2-2) Configuration of Fan Chamber

[0048] The fan chamber (S1) is formed as a substantially rectangular parallelepiped space. The length of the fan chamber (S1) in the left-right direction is longer than the length of the fan chamber (S1) in the front-rear direction. The air heat exchanger (13), the fan (30), and a bell mouth (31) are arranged in the fan chamber (S1).

[0049] The air heat exchanger (13) is formed in an L-shape in top view. The air heat exchanger (13) has a first heat exchange portion (13a) along the rear surface of the fan chamber (S1) and a second heat exchange portion (13b) along the left surface of the fan chamber (S1). The air heat exchanger (13) is a fin-and-tube heat exchanger. A heat transfer tube of the air heat exchanger (13) is formed as a flat perforated tube, but may also be a straight tube.

[0050] The fan (30) transfers the air that exchanges heat with the air heat exchanger (13). The fan (30) is a propeller fan and has a motor (30a) and an impeller (30b). The motor (30a) is located behind the impeller (30b). The motor (30a) is supported by a support (32) installed on the bottom plate (23). The motor (30a) rotates the impeller (30b). The bell mouth (31) is formed in a tubular shape, and is located at the periphery of the impeller (30b). The bell mouth (31) is continuous with the outlet port (29).(3) Configuration of Machine Chamber

[0051] The machine chamber (S2) is a substantially rectangular parallelepiped space. The length of the machine chamber (S2) in the left-right direction is substantially equal to the length of the machine chamber (S2) in the front-rear direction. The length of the machine chamber (S2) in the top-bottom direction is longer than the lengths of the machine chamber (S2) in the left-right direction and the front-rear direction. The length of the machine chamber (S2) in the left-right direction is shorter than the length of the fan chamber (S1) in the left-right direction.

[0052] The compressor (12), the water heat exchanger (15), the gas-liquid separator (44), and the accumulator (17) are disposed in the machine chamber (S2). The compressor (12), the water heat exchanger (15), the gas-liquid separator (44), and the accumulator (17) are included in the refrigerant circuit (11). The outdoor unit (20) further includes a vibration isolation mechanism (50), a sound insulation member (60), and a filler unit (70).(3-1) Compressor

[0053] The compressor (12) is disposed closer to the front and left sides of the machine chamber (S2). The compressor (12) has a compressor casing (12a). The compressor casing (12a) is formed in a vertically-long hollow cylindrical shape. The height of the compressor casing (12a) is greater than the outer diameter of the compressor casing (12a). The compressor casing (12a) forms a hermetic pressure-resistant container. The suction pipe (19) is connected to a top portion of the compressor (12). The discharge pipe (18) is connected to a barrel of the compressor (12). The compressor (12) is, for example, a scroll compressor.(3-2) Water Heat Exchanger

[0054] The water heat exchanger (15) is disposed closer to the right side of the machine chamber (S2). The water heat exchanger (15) is closer to the right panel (24) than the compressor (12) is. The water heat exchanger (15) is closer to the rear panel (27) than the compressor (12) is. The water heat exchanger (15) is a plate heat exchanger. The first heat-source-side pipe (41a), the second heat-source-side pipe (42a), and a refrigerant pipe (not shown) are connected to the water heat exchanger (15).

[0055] The first heat-source-side pipe (41a) extends inside the casing (21) and extends to the outside from the rear surface of the casing (21). The first heat-source-side pipe (41a) has the first connecting port (41c). The second heat-source-side pipe (42a) extends inside the casing (21) and extends to the outside from the rear surface of the casing (21). The second heat-source-side pipe (42a) has the second connecting port (42c). The first connecting port (41c) and the second connecting port (42c) are located outside the casing (21).

[0056] The outer diameter of the first connecting port (41c) and the outer diameter of the second connecting port (42c) are both 15 mm or more. The first connection pipe (41b) is connected to the first connecting port (41c). The second connection pipe (42b) is connected to the second connecting port (42c). The first connection pipe (41b) and the second connection pipe (42b) are connected, as part of the water piping construction, using a tool such as a spanner after the heat source apparatus (1) has been installed on site.(3-3) Gas-Liquid Separator

[0057] The water heat exchanger (15) is disposed above the water heat exchanger (15). The gas-liquid separator (44) is supported from below by the water heat exchanger (15). The gas-liquid separator (44) is provided with a release path that releases a gas refrigerant separated in the gas-liquid separator (44) and a gas vent valve that opens and closes the release path (not shown).(3-4) Accumulator

[0058] The accumulator (17) is connected to the suction pipe (19). The accumulator (17) is disposed closer to the rear side of the machine chamber (S2). The accumulator (17) is closer to the rear panel (27) than the compressor (12) and the water heat exchanger (15) are. The accumulator (17) is formed in a vertically-long hollow cylindrical shape. The height of the accumulator (17) is greater than the outer diameter of the accumulator (17).(3-5) Vibration Isolation Mechanism

[0059] The vibration isolation mechanism (50) reduces vibration of the compressor (12) and the accumulator (17). The vibration isolation mechanism (50) of this embodiment includes a support panel (51) and a first elastic support portion (52). The support panel (51) supports the compressor (12) from below. The first elastic support portion (52) is fixed on the bottom plate (23), and supports the support panel (51) from below. The compressor (12) is fixed on the support panel (51). The support panel (51) is a panel member having a substantially rectangular shape in top view. The support panel (51) has a circular hole at the center, in which a bottom portion of the compressor (12) is fitted.

[0060] The vibration isolation mechanism (50) of this embodiment includes three first elastic support portions (52). The first elastic support portions (52) are each disposed in the vicinity of three vertices of the support panel (51). Each first elastic support portion (52) is interposed between the support panel (51) and the bottom plate (23). The first elastic support portion (52) supports the support panel (51) directly from below. The first elastic support portions (52) are made of an elastic material such as rubber or urethane. The vibration of the compressor (12) is attenuated by the first elastic support portions (52) before being transmitted to the bottom plate (23).(3-6) Sound Insulation Member

[0061] The sound insulation member (60) reduces propagation of noise generated during operation of the compressor (12) to the outside of the casing (21). The sound insulation member (60) is formed in a hollow box shape which is open downward. The sound insulation member (60) has an upper wall (61), a right wall (62), a left wall (63), a front wall (64), and a rear wall (65).

[0062] The upper wall (61) faces the top panel (22), and forms the upper surface of the sound insulation member (60). The right wall (62) faces the right panel (24), and forms the right surface of the sound insulation member (60). The left wall (63) faces the partitioning member (45), and forms the left surface of the sound insulation member (60). The front wall (64) faces the front panel (26), and forms the front surface of the sound insulation member (60). The rear wall (65) faces the rear panel (27), and forms the rear surface of the sound insulation member (60). The front wall (64) is attachable to and detachable from the body of the sound insulation member (60).

[0063] The sound insulation member (60) is supported by the bottom plate (23) of the casing (21). The sound insulation member (60) is a non-porous member. The sound insulation member (60) is formed by, for example, a metal member or a rubber sheet. The sound insulation member (60) forms an internal space (66) surrounding the compressor (12). The devices such as the compressor (12), the accumulator (17), the water heat exchanger (15), and the filler unit (70) are disposed in the internal space (66) of this embodiment.

[0064] The sound insulation member (60) and the casing (21) are spaced apart from each other with a predetermined gap. In other words, a clearance (67) is formed between the outer surface of the sound insulation member (60) and the inner surface of the casing (21). The clearance (67) reduces propagation of the noise generated during the operation of the compressor (12) to the outside of the casing (21).(3-7) Filler Unit

[0065] The filler unit (70) is disposed closer to the right side of the machine chamber (S2) and closer to the front side of the machine chamber (S2). As illustrated in FIG. 6, the filler unit (70) has the cylinder (71), the connection pipe (72), the control valve (73), and a protection member (74).

[0066] The cylinder (71) stores flammable refrigerant for filling the refrigerant circuit (11). The cylinder (71) is filled with the refrigerant in advance at the time of shipment of the heat source apparatus (1). Thus, the cylinder (71) is filled with the refrigerant during storage and transportation of the heat source apparatus (1). After the heat source apparatus (1) has been installed on site, the refrigerant circuit (11) is filled with the refrigerant from the cylinder (71) before operation of the heat source apparatus (1). Thus, the cylinder (71) is empty when the heat source apparatus (1) is used.

[0067] The cylinder (71) is formed in a vertically-long hollow cylindrical shape. The height of the cylinder (71) is greater than the outer diameter of the cylinder (71). The cylinder (71) forms a hermetically closed pressure-resistant container. The cylinder (71) has lower rigidity than the compressor casing (12a).

[0068] As illustrated in FIGS. 1 and 3, the cylinder (71) has a discharge port (71a) at its lower portion. More precisely, the discharge port (71a) is formed in a bottom portion of the cylinder (71). The flammable refrigerant is discharged from the cylinder (71) through the discharge port (71a). The density of the flammable refrigerant is relatively high. Thus, the discharge port (71a) provided in the lower portion of the cylinder (71) can promote the discharge of the refrigerant. In addition, when filling the refrigerant circuit (11) with the refrigerant, the refrigerant remaining in the cylinder (71) can be reduced.

[0069] The connection pipe (72) is a pipe through which the refrigerant in the cylinder (71) is injected into the refrigerant circuit (11). The connection pipe (72) connects the cylinder (71) and the refrigerant circuit (11). One end of the connection pipe (72) is connected to the discharge port (71a) of the cylinder (71) and communicates with the interior of the cylinder (71). The other end of the connection pipe (72) is connected to the suction pipe (19). The connection pipe (72) is located below the cylinder (71).

[0070] The control valve (73) is provided in the connection pipe (72). The control valve (73) controls the opening degree of the connection pipe (72). The control valve (73) is an example of a shut-off valve that opens and closes the connection pipe (72). The control valve (73) is a manual valve that is manually opened and closed. The control valve (73) is located below the cylinder (71).

[0071] As illustrated in FIG. 6, the connection pipe (72) includes an upstream pipe portion (72a) and a downstream pipe portion (72b). The upstream pipe portion (72a) is a portion of the connection pipe (72) that is closer to the discharge port (71a) than the control valve (73). The downstream pipe portion (72b) is a portion of the connection pipe (72) that is closer to the refrigerant circuit (11) (to the suction pipe (19)) than the control valve (73). The refrigerant in the cylinder (71) flows into the upstream pipe portion (72a) even when the control valve (73) is closed.

[0072] The protection member (74) is provided on the lower side of the cylinder (71). The protection member (74) has a function of protecting the upstream pipe portion (72a) and the control valve (73). The protection member (74) also has a function of supporting the cylinder (71) from below. The protection member (74) includes a base (75) and a partition wall (76). The base (75) is a portion where the protection member (74) is attached, and is fixed to the bottom plate (23). The partition wall (76) is provided on the base (75), and surrounds the upstream pipe portion (72a) and the control valve (73).

[0073] The partition wall (76) has a work opening (76a) through which the control valve (73) inside the partition wall (76) is exposed to the outside of the partition wall (76). The work opening (76a) is an example of a third opening. The work opening (76a) is an opening used to access the control valve (73) to fill the refrigerant circuit (11) with the refrigerant from the cylinder (71). The work opening (76a) is open toward the front panel (26). More specifically, the work opening (76a) is open toward a space (WS) between the compressor (12) and the front panel (26). The work opening (76a) in this embodiment is oriented obliquely toward the front-left. The connection pipe (72) is drawn from the inside of the protection member (74) into the space (WS) between the compressor (12) and the front panel (26) through the work opening (76a), and is connected to the suction pipe (19) via the space (WS).(3-8) Relative Arrangement of Compressor, Water Heat Exchanger, Accumulator, and Cylinder

[0074] As illustrated in FIG. 4, the water heat exchanger (15) is disposed behind the cylinder (71). The first heat-source-side pipe (41a) and the second heat-source-side pipe (42a) are drawn out rearward from the rear surface of the water heat exchanger (15), penetrate the sound insulation member (60), and are inserted into the insertion ports (IP) of the rear panel (27). That is, the water heat exchanger (15) is located between the cylinder (71) and each of the first heat-source-side pipe (41a) and the second heat-source-side pipe (42a). The accumulator (17) is disposed behind the compressor (12) and closer to the water heat exchanger (15).

[0075] As illustrated in FIG. 3, the compressor (12) and the cylinder (71) are horizontally offset from each other when viewed from the front of the access port (AP). The compressor (12) is provided at a position farther from the front panel (26) than the cylinder (71) is. The distance L1 between the compressor (12) and the front panel (26) is longer than the distance L2 between the cylinder (71) and the front panel (26) (see FIG. 4). The space (WS) which can be used as a workspace is formed between the compressor (12) and the front panel (26) when the access port (AP) is exposed to the outside of the casing (21) and the front wall (64) is detached from the sound insulation member (60) (see FIG. 7).

[0076] As described above, when viewed from the front of the access port (AP), the compressor (12) and the cylinder (71) are next to each other and positioned obliquely relative to the depth direction, i.e., the front-rear direction, of the casing (21). The compressor (12) and the cylinder (71) are close to each other. The term "close" as used herein means that the compressor (12) and the cylinder (71) are close enough to each other that although pipes such as the connection pipe (72) can be interposed between them, other main components such as the water heat exchanger (15) and the accumulator (17) cannot be interposed therebetween.(3-9) Access Port

[0077] As illustrated in FIGS. 3 and 4, the access port (AP) is formed on the front side of the casing (21). The front panel (26) is provided with a front surface panel (26a) attachable to and detachable from the body of the front panel (26). As illustrated in FIG. 7, the access port (AP) is exposed to the outside of the casing (21) by detaching the front surface panel (26a). By detaching the front wall (64) from the sound insulation member (60), the devices inside the casing (21) are exposed to the outside of the casing (21).

[0078] The compressor (12) and the cylinder (71) correspond to the access port (AP) in the front-rear direction. The operator in front of the casing (21) can access the compressor (12) and the cylinder (71) through the access port (AP). Thus, the operator can perform maintenance on the compressor (12). The operator can also use the space (WS) between the compressor (12) and the front panel (26) as the workspace and operate the control valve (73) through the work opening (76a).(4) Features of Embodiment

[0079] In the heat source apparatus (1), the insertion ports (IP) through which the first water pipe (41) and the second water pipe (42) are inserted and the access port (AP) that allows access to the cylinder (71) are formed separately in different surface portions of the casing (21). This makes it possible to reduce the risk of damaging the cylinder (71) with a tool during installation of the first water pipe (41) and the second water pipe (42).

[0080] In the heat source apparatus (1), the insertion ports (IP) and the access port (AP) are formed separately in the opposing surface portions of the casing (21). Thus, the cylinder (71) can be disposed away from the installation positions of the first water pipe (41) and the second water pipe (42). This makes it possible to effectively reduce the risk of damaging the cylinder (71) with a tool during installation of the first water pipe (41) and the second water pipe (42).

[0081] In the heat source apparatus (1), the insertion ports (IP) are formed in the rear panel (27) of the casing (21). Thus, the heat source apparatus (1) has a favorable appearance after installation. The access port (AP) is formed in the front panel (26) of the casing (21). This makes it easy to access the cylinder (71) even after the installation of the heat source apparatus (1). Moreover, the cylinder (71) can be disposed away from the installation positions of the first water pipe (41) and the second water pipe (42), and the risk of damaging the cylinder (71) with a tool during installation of the first water pipe (41) and the second water pipe (42) can be effectively reduced.

[0082] In the heat source apparatus (1), the water heat exchanger (15) is located between the cylinder (71) and each of the first water pipe and the second water pipe (42). This enables the water heat exchanger (15) to protect the cylinder (71) during installation of the first water pipe (41) and the second water pipe (42), thereby reducing the risk of a tool coming into contact with the cylinder (71).

[0083] In the heat source apparatus (1), the upstream pipe portion (72a) of the connection pipe (72) and the control valve (73) are surrounded by the protection member (74). This makes it possible to protect the upstream pipe portion (72a) and the control valve (73) from vibration during transportation of the heat source apparatus (1), impact due to fall of the heat source apparatus (1), or the like. Since the protection member (74) has the work opening (76a) that allows access to the control valve (73) and opens toward the access port (AP), the access to the control valve (73) can be made through the access port (AP) and the work opening (76a) even after the installation of the heat source apparatus (1).

[0084] In the heat source apparatus (1), the access port (AP) is also used as an opening that allows access to the compressor (12). Thus, maintenance can be performed on the compressor (12) through the access port (AP). In many cases, no tools are used for maintenance of the compressor (12). Thus, even when the access port (AP) is also used as an opening that allows access to both the cylinder (71) and the compressor (12), the risk of damaging the cylinder (71) during the maintenance of the compressor (12) is low.

[0085] In the heat source apparatus (1), the compressor (12) is horizontally offset from the cylinder (71) when viewed from the front of the access port (AP), and is located farther from the front panel (26) than the cylinder (71); therefore, the space (WS) can be provided between the compressor (12) and the front panel (26). The space (WS) can be used as a workspace for performing tasks to access the cylinder (71).

[0086] In the heat source apparatus (1), the work opening (76a) of the protection member (74) is open toward the space (WS) between the compressor (12) and the front panel (26). This makes it easy to perform tasks to access the cylinder (71) and the control valve (73), using the space (WS) between the compressor (12) and the front panel (26) as the workspace. Moreover, the length of the connection pipe (72) can be shortened by drawing the connection pipe (72) from the work opening (76a) of the protection member (74) through the space (WS). This is advantageous for reducing pressure loss when the refrigerant circuit (11) is filled with the refrigerant in the cylinder (71).

[0087] In the heat source apparatus (1), each of the outer diameter of the connecting port (41c) of the first heat-source-side pipe (41a) and the outer diameter of the connecting port (42c) of the second heat-source-side pipe (42a) is 15 mm or more, which is relatively large. In this case, the operator needs to apply force to a tool to tighten the first water pipe (41) and the second water pipe (42) during installation of them. If the tool slips off the fastening portion of the water pipe (41, 42) while the operator is applying force to the tool, the tool may accidentally strike an object around the installation position of the water pipe (41, 42) and may damage the object. The technique of the present disclosure is particularly effective when the connecting ports (41c, 42c) of the first heat-source-side pipe (41a) and the second heat-source-side pipe (42a) are thick as described above.(5) Variations

[0088] As illustrated in FIG. 8, a casing (21) of this variation differs in the configuration from the casing (21) of the above embodiment. In the casing of this variation, the access port (AP) is formed in the right panel (24). The access port (AP) is located closer to the front of the casing (21), and is continuous with the front panel (26). The access port (AP) may also be used as an opening that allows access to the compressor (12). The casing (21) may also have another opening that allows access to the compressor (12) in addition to the access port (AP).

[0089] The work opening (76a) of the protection member (74) is open toward the right panel (24). More specifically, the work opening (76a) is open toward a space between the water heat exchanger (15) and the right panel (24). The work opening (76a) in this variation is oriented obliquely toward the rear-left. The connection pipe (72) is drawn from the inside of the protection member (74) into the space between the compressor (12) and the right panel (24) through the work opening (76a), and is connected to the suction pipe (19) via the space (not shown).(6) Other Embodiments

[0090] The vibration isolation mechanism (50) may have a double vibration isolation structure. For example, as illustrated in FIG. 9, the vibration isolation mechanism (50) further includes an intermediate panel (53) and a second elastic support portion (54) in addition to the above-described support panel (51) and first elastic support portion (52). The intermediate panel (53) supports the support panel (51), the water heat exchanger (15), the accumulator (17), and the filler unit (70) from below. The second elastic support portion (54) is fixed on the bottom plate (23), and supports the intermediate panel (53) from below.

[0091] The support panel (51) is fixed on the intermediate panel (53) via the first elastic support portion (52). The first elastic support portion (52) is interposed between the support panel (51) and the intermediate panel (53). The compressor (12) is fixed on the support panel (51). The water heat exchanger (15), the accumulator (17), and the filler unit (70) are supported on the intermediate panel (53). The intermediate panel (53) is a panel member having a substantially rectangular shape in top view. The vibration isolation mechanism (50) includes four second elastic support portions (54).

[0092] The second elastic support portions (54) are each disposed in the vicinity of four vertices of the intermediate panel (53). Each second elastic support portion (54) is interposed between the intermediate panel (53) and the bottom plate (23). The second elastic support portion (54) supports the intermediate panel (53) directly from below. The second elastic support portions (54) are made of an elastic material such as rubber or urethane. In this double vibration isolation structure, the vibration of the compressor (12) is attenuated by the first elastic support portion (52) and is attenuated by the second elastic support portion (54) as well, before being transmitted to the bottom plate (23).

[0093] As illustrated in FIG. 10, the sound-absorbing material (90) may be provided inside the sound insulation member (60). The sound-absorbing material (90) is a resin material having open cells and is made of, for example, urethane. Specifically, the sound-absorbing material (90) is provided inside each of the upper wall (61), the right wall (62), the left wall (63), the front wall (64), and the rear wall (65) of the sound insulation member (60). The use of the sound-absorbing material (90) improves a noise reduction effect in the machine chamber (S2). The sound-absorbing material (90) may be provided not inside but outside the sound insulation member (60), or may be provided both inside and outside the sound insulation member (60).

[0094] The support panel (51) may support not only the compressor (12) but also the cylinder (71) from below. The support panel (51) is formed in a rectangular plate shape, for example. The support panel (51) is supported by the plurality of first elastic support portions (52) from below. One first elastic support portion (52) is provided at each of the four corners of the support panel (51) and is fixed to the bottom plate (23). The cylinder (71) is installed on the support panel (51) via the protection member (74). In this manner, both the compressor (12) and the cylinder (71) may be fixed on the support panel (51).

[0095] The filler unit (70) may have an on-off valve instead of the control valve (73). The on-off valve is an example of a shut-off valve. It is sufficient for the valve provided in the connection pipe (72) to have a function of opening and closing the connection pipe (72).

[0096] The heat source apparatus (1) may form part of a refrigeration cycle apparatus. Specifically, the refrigeration cycle apparatus may be of a separate type in which a heat source unit, which is the heat source apparatus (1), and a utilization unit are connected to each other via a connection pipe. The refrigeration cycle apparatus may be an air conditioner, a transportable refrigeration apparatus, a stationary refrigeration apparatus, or the like.

[0097] The sound insulation member (60) may cover only the compressor (12).

[0098] While the embodiment and variations thereof have been described above, it will be understood that various changes in form and details may be made without departing from the spirit and scope of the claims. The foregoing embodiment and variations thereof may be combined or replaced with each other without deteriorating the intended functions of the present disclosure.

[0099] The ordinal numbers such as "first," "second," "third," ... in the description and claims are used to distinguish the terms to which these expressions are given, and do not limit the number and order of the terms.INDUSTRIAL APPLICABILITY

[0100] As can be seen from the foregoing description, the present disclosure is useful for a heat source apparatus.DESCRIPTION OF REFERENCE CHARACTERS

[0101] APAccess Port (Second Opening) IPInsertion Port (First Opening) 1Heat Source Apparatus 11Refrigerant Circuit 12Compressor 13Air Heat Exchanger 15Water Heat Exchanger 21Casing 24Right Panel (Second Surface Portion) 26Front Panel (Second Surface Portion) 27Rear Panel (First Surface Portion) 30Fan 41aFirst Heat-Source-Side Pipe (Water Pipe) 41cFirst Connecting Port (Connecting Port) 42aSecond Heat-Source-Side Pipe (Water Pipe) 42cSecond Connecting Port (Connecting Port) 71aDischarge Port 71Cylinder 72Connection Pipe 72aUpstream Pipe Portion 74Protection Member 76aWork Opening (Third Opening)

Claims

1. A heat source apparatus comprising: a water heat exchanger (15) included in a refrigerant circuit (11) configured to perform a refrigeration cycle; a cylinder (71) storing a flammable refrigerant for filling the refrigerant circuit (11), the cylinder (71) having, in a lower portion, a discharge port (71a) through which the flammable refrigerant is discharged; and a casing (21) configured to house the water heat exchanger (15) and the cylinder (71), to the water heat exchanger (15), a water pipe (41a, 42a) through which water flows being connected, the casing (21) having a first surface portion (27) and a second surface portion (24, 26) different from each other, the first surface portion (27) having a first opening (IP) into which the water pipe (41a, 42a) is inserted, the second surface portion (24, 26) having a second opening (AP) that allows access to the cylinder (71).

2. The heat source apparatus of claim 1, wherein the first surface portion (27) and the second surface portion (26) face each other.

3. The heat source apparatus of claim 1 or 2, further comprising: an air heat exchanger (13) included in the refrigerant circuit (11); and a fan (30) configured to transfer air that exchanges heat with the air heat exchanger (13), wherein the first surface portion (27) is a rear panel (27) facing a side opposite to a discharge side of the air transferred by the fan (30), and the second surface portion (24, 26) is a front panel (26) facing the discharge side of the air transferred by the fan (30) or a side plate (24) provided between the front panel (26) and the rear panel (27).

4. The heat source apparatus of any one of claims 1 to 3, wherein the water heat exchanger (15) is located between the cylinder (71) and the water pipe (41a, 42a).

5. The heat source apparatus of any one of claims 1 to 4, wherein a connection pipe (72) connecting the cylinder (71) and the refrigerant circuit (11) is connected to the discharge port (71a), the connection pipe (72) is provided with a shut-off valve (73), a protection member (74) surrounding an upstream pipe portion (72a) and the shut-off valve (73) is provided below the cylinder (71), the upstream pipe portion (72a) being a portion of the connection pipe (72) that is closer to the discharge port (71a) than the shut-off valve (73), the protection member (74) has a third opening (76a) that allows access to the shut-off valve (73), and the third opening (76a) is open toward the second surface portion (24, 26).

6. The heat source apparatus of any one of claims 1 to 5, further comprising: a compressor (12) included in the refrigerant circuit (11), wherein the second opening (AP) is also used as an opening that allows access to the compressor (12).

7. The heat source apparatus of claim 6, wherein the compressor (12) and the cylinder (71) are horizontally offset from each other when viewed from a front of the second opening (AP), and a distance between the compressor (12) and the second surface portion (24) is longer than a distance between the cylinder (71) and the second surface portion (24).

8. The heat source apparatus of claim 7, wherein a connection pipe (72) connecting the cylinder (71) and the refrigerant circuit (11) is connected to the discharge port (71a), the connection pipe (72) is provided with a shut-off valve (73), a protection member (74) surrounding an upstream pipe portion (72a) and the shut-off valve (73) is provided below the cylinder (71), the upstream pipe portion (72a) being a portion of the connection pipe (72) that is closer to the discharge port (71a) than the shut-off valve (73), the protection member (74) has a third opening (76a) that allows access to the shut-off valve (73), and the third opening (76a) is open toward a space between the compressor (12) and the second surface portion (24).

9. The heat source apparatus of any one of claims 1 to 8, wherein the water pipe (41a, 42a) has a connecting port (41c, 42c) to which an external pipe (41b, 42b) is connected, and an outer diameter of the connecting port (41c, 42c) is 15 mm or more.

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