Heat source unit and refrigeration cycle device

Abstract

To restrain the concentration of a leaked refrigerant from increasing in an internal space of a sound insulating member.SOLUTION: A heat source unit comprises: a casing (70); a compressor (30) arranged inside the casing (70), and compressing a refrigerant; an air impermeable sound insulating member (60) arranged inside the casing (70), and covering the compressor (30) so as to partition a first space (S1) housing the compressor (30); and a first communication passage (41) establishing communication between a lower part of the first space (S1) and a second space (S2) between the sound insulating member (60) and the casing (70).SELECTED DRAWING: Figure 2

Description

Technical Field

[0001] The present disclosure relates to a heat source unit and a refrigeration cycle device.

Background Art

[0002] In the air conditioner of Patent Document 1, the compressor is covered with a sound insulation member made of hard rubber or the like. The sound insulation member suppresses noise associated with the vibration of the compressor.

Prior Art Documents

Patent Documents

[0003]

Patent Document 1

Summary of the Invention

Problems to be Solved by the Invention

[0004] In a refrigeration cycle device such as an air conditioner, a refrigerant having a specific gravity greater than that of air may be used. As described in Patent Document 1, in a configuration in which the compressor is covered with a sound insulation member, if the refrigerant leaks from the compressor or the connection portion between the compressor and the piping, the refrigerant flows out into the space inside the sound insulation member. The leaked refrigerant moves to the lower part of the space due to its own weight. As a result, a problem occurs in that the concentration of the refrigerant becomes high in the lower part of the internal space of the sound insulation member.

[0005] An object of the present disclosure is to suppress an increase in the concentration of the leaked refrigerant in the internal space of the sound insulation member.

Means for Solving the Problems

[0006] The first aspect targets a heat source unit provided in a refrigeration cycle device that uses a refrigerant having a specific gravity greater than that of air. The heat source unit includes a casing (70), a compressor (30) disposed inside the casing (70) for compressing the refrigerant, The outdoor expansion valve (23), four-way switching valve (25), or solenoid valve (29) disposed inside the casing (70), disposed inside the casing (70), the compressor (30), and the outdoor expansion valve (23), four-way switching valve (25), or solenoid valve (29)A compressor (30) that partitions a first space (S1) to be accommodated, the outdoor expansion valve (23), four-way switching valve (25), or solenoid valve (29) A non-ventilated soundproof member (60) that covers the outdoor expansion valve (23), four-way switching valve (25), or solenoid valve (29) , a first communication path (41) that communicates the lower part of the first space (S1), the second space (S2) between the soundproof member (60) and the casing (70).

[0007] In the first aspect, when the refrigerant leaks from the compressor (30) or the connection part of the compressor (30) and the pipe, this refrigerant moves to the lower part of the first space (S1). The lower part of the first space (S1) flows out to the second space (S2) outside the soundproof member (60) through the first communication path (41). As a result, in the first space (S1), it is possible to suppress an increase in the concentration of the refrigerant.

[0008] The second aspect is, in the first aspect, a fan (22), a heat exchanger (21) that exchanges heat between the outdoor air conveyed by the fan (22) and the refrigerant, a partition member (28) that partitions the inside of the casing (70) into a first chamber (31) where the compressor (30) and the soundproof member (60) are arranged and that includes the second space (S2), and a second chamber (32) where the fan (22) and the heat exchanger (21) are arranged, and a second communication path (48) that communicates the lower part of the second space (S2) of the first chamber (31) and the second chamber (32).

[0009] In the second aspect, when the refrigerant flows out from the lower part of the first space (S1) to the first chamber (31) through the first communication path (41), this refrigerant flows out to the second chamber (32) through the second communication path (48). As a result, in addition to the first space (S1), it is possible to suppress an increase in the concentration of the refrigerant in the second space (S2).

[0010] The third aspect is, in the second aspect, a third communication path (53) that communicates the lower part of the second chamber (32) and the outside of the casing (70).

[0011] In the third aspect, when the refrigerant flows out from the lower part of the second space (S2) into the second chamber (32) through the second communication passage (48), this refrigerant flows out to the outside of the casing (70) through the third communication passage (53). As a result, in addition to the first space (S1) and the second space (S2), it is possible to suppress an increase in the concentration of the refrigerant in the second chamber (32).

[0012] The fourth aspect includes a fourth communication passage (54, 56) that communicates the lower part of the second space (S2) with the outside of the casing (70) in any one of the first to third aspects.

[0013] In the fourth aspect, when the refrigerant flows out from the lower part of the first space (S1) into the second space (S2) through the first communication passage (41), this refrigerant flows out to the outside of the casing (70) through the fourth communication passage (54, 56). As a result, in addition to the first space (S1), it is possible to suppress an increase in the concentration of the refrigerant in the second space (S2).

[0014] The fifth aspect is that in any one of the first to fourth aspects, the sound insulation member (60) is formed in a hollow shape with an open lower side, and the first communication passage (41) is formed between the lower end of the sound insulation member (60) and the bottom plate (72) of the casing (70).

[0015] In the fifth aspect, since the first communication passage (41) is formed between the sound insulation member (60) with an open lower side and the bottom plate (72) of the casing (70), it is possible to suppress an increase in the concentration of the refrigerant in the vicinity of the bottom plate (72) where the refrigerant is most likely to accumulate.

[0016] The sixth aspect is that in any one of the first to fifth aspects, it includes a first sound-absorbing material (81) with air permeability provided between the outer surface of the sound insulation member (60) and the inner surface of the casing (70).

[0017] In the sixth aspect, the double sound insulation structure of the sound insulation member (60) and the casing (70) can suppress the leakage of the radiated sound and the vibration sound from the compressor (30) to the outside. Further, the first sound absorption material (81) can suppress the reduction of the sound insulation performance due to the low-frequency resonance transmission phenomenon and enhance the soundproofing effect. Since the first sound absorption material (81) has air permeability, the leaked refrigerant can pass through it.

[0018] The seventh aspect includes, in any one of the first to fifth aspects, a second sound absorption material (82) with air permeability provided on the inner surface of the sound insulation member (60).

[0019] In the seventh aspect, the second sound absorption material (82) can enhance the soundproofing effect by absorbing the radiated sound and the vibration sound from the compressor (30). Since the second sound absorption material (82) has air permeability, the leaked refrigerant can pass through it.

[0020] The eighth aspect includes, in the seventh aspect, a first sound absorption material (81) with air permeability provided between the outer surface of the sound insulation member (60) and the inner surface of the casing (70).

[0021] In the eighth aspect, both the soundproofing effect by the first sound absorption material (81) and the soundproofing effect by the second sound absorption material (82) can be obtained. Since the second sound absorption material (82) has air permeability, the leaked refrigerant can pass through it.

[0022] The ninth aspect includes, in any one of the first to eighth aspects, a first vibration isolation member (33) that supports the compressor (30), a first support member (34) that supports the first vibration isolation member (33), a second vibration isolation member (35) that supports the first support member (34), and a second support member (36) that supports the second vibration isolation member (35).

[0023] In the ninth aspect, the vibration of the compressor (30) can be attenuated by supporting the compressor (30) with a two-layer vibration isolation structure in which the first vibration isolation member (33) and the second vibration isolation member (35) are laminated.

[0024] The tenth aspect is a refrigeration cycle device including the heat source unit (20) according to any one of the first to ninth aspects.

Brief Description of the Drawings

[0025]

Figure 1

Figure 2

Figure 3

Figure 4

Figure 5

Figure 6

Figure 7

Figure 8

Figure 9

Figure 10

Figure 11

Figure 12

Figure 13

Figure 14

Modes for Carrying Out the Invention

[0026] Hereinafter, embodiments of the present disclosure will be described in detail with reference to the drawings. It should be noted that the present disclosure is not limited to the embodiments shown below, and various modifications can be made without departing from the technical idea of the present disclosure. Since each drawing is for conceptually explaining the present disclosure, dimensions, ratios, or numbers may be exaggerated or simplified as necessary for easy understanding.

[0027] (1) Basic configuration As shown in FIG. 1, the refrigeration cycle device (1) is a hot water supply refrigeration cycle device having an outdoor unit (20) as a heat source unit. The outdoor unit (20) has a refrigerant circuit (2). The refrigerant circuit (2) is filled with, for example, a flammable natural refrigerant. The flammable natural refrigerant is, for example, propane. Propane is a refrigerant with a specific gravity greater than that of air. The refrigerant circuit (2) performs a refrigeration cycle by circulating the refrigerant.

[0028] (1-1) Fluid circuit The refrigeration cycle device (1) has a fluid circuit (12). Water flows in the fluid circuit (12) as a heat medium. A water heat exchanger (15) and a fluid pump (16) are connected to the fluid circuit (12). The fluid pump (16) circulates the water in the fluid circuit (12). The fluid heated by the water heat exchanger (15) is supplied to a hot water supply tank (not shown) that is the supply target. The water in the hot water supply tank returns to the fluid circuit (12) and is heated again by the water heat exchanger (15).

[0029] (1-2) Basic configuration of the outdoor unit The outdoor unit (20) has a refrigerant cylinder (5), a water heat exchanger (15), an outdoor heat exchanger (21), an outdoor fan (22), an outdoor expansion valve (23), a four-way switching valve (24), an accumulator (25), and a compressor (30). The outdoor heat exchanger (21), the outdoor expansion valve (23), the four-way switching valve (24), and the compressor (30) are connected by piping (26).

[0030] The refrigerant cylinder (5) is filled with refrigerant. The refrigerant cylinder (5) is connected to, for example, a pipe that branches from a pipe (26) connecting the four-way switching valve (24) and the accumulator (25). After transporting the outdoor unit (20) to the installation site, the refrigerant cylinder (5) fills the refrigerant circuit (2) by opening the on-off valve (6) of the refrigerant cylinder (5). By doing so, it is possible to suppress the leakage of flammable refrigerant from the refrigerant circuit (2) during the transportation of the outdoor unit (20).

[0031] The refrigerant circuit (2) pipe (26) is connected to the water heat exchanger (15). The water heat exchanger (15) exchanges heat between the refrigerant flowing through the pipe (26) and the water flowing through the fluid pipe (17) of the fluid circuit (12).

[0032] The outdoor heat exchanger (21) is composed of, for example, a cross-fin type fin-and-tube heat exchanger. Specifically, the outdoor heat exchanger (21) is composed of a so-called inserted fin type microchannel heat exchanger. In the outdoor heat exchanger (21), heat is exchanged between the refrigerant flowing through the outdoor heat exchanger (21) and the air blown by the outdoor fan (22). The outdoor expansion valve (23) is composed of, for example, an electronic expansion valve. The outdoor heat exchanger (21) is an example of a heat exchanger on the heat source side.

[0033] The four-way switching valve (24) has a first port (P1), a second port (P2), a third port (P3), and a fourth port (P4). The four-way switching valve (24) is in a state where the first port (P1) and the third port (P3) are in communication and the second port (P2) and the fourth port (P4) are in communication (the state shown by the solid line in FIG. 1).

[0034] The compressor (30) compresses the refrigerant. The compressor (30) is composed of, for example, a rotary compressor such as a scroll compressor. The four-way switching valve (24) is connected to the pipe (26) on the discharge side of the compressor (30). The accumulator (25) is connected to the pipe (26) on the suction side of the compressor (30).

[0035] (1-3) Internal Structure of Outdoor Unit In the following description, in each figure, the vertical, front-back, left-right directions are indicated by arrows. Unless otherwise specified, the directions such as up and down will be described according to the directions indicated by these arrows.

[0036] As shown in FIGS. 2 and 3, the outdoor unit (20) has a casing (70). The casing (70) is formed in a box shape. The casing (70) is composed of, for example, a metal plate. The casing (70) has an upper panel (71), a bottom plate (72), a front panel (73), a rear panel (74), a left panel (75), and a right panel (76).

[0037] Inside the casing (70), a partition member (28) is vertically arranged. The partition member (28) is composed of, for example, a metal plate. The partition member (28) divides the inside of the casing (70) into a machine room (31) which is the first chamber and a blower room (32) which is the second chamber.

[0038] The blower room (32) is the space on the left side of the partition member (28) inside the casing (70). An outdoor fan (22) and an outdoor heat exchanger (21) are arranged in the blower room (32).

[0039] The casing (70) is formed with a suction port (70a) and a blowout port (70b). The suction port (70a) is formed in the part of the rear panel (74) facing the blower room (32) and the left panel (75) respectively. The blowout port (70b) is formed in the part of the front panel (73) facing the blower room (32). In the blower room (32), an air passage through which outdoor air flows is formed from the suction port (70a) to the blowout port (70b).

[0040] The outdoor heat exchanger (21) has a plurality of flat tubes and a plurality of fins inserted into these flat tubes. The plurality of flat tubes are arranged in the vertical direction. The flat tubes are formed in an L shape bent along the rear panel (74) and the left panel (75) in a top view.

[0041] The outdoor fan (22) is a propeller fan having a fan motor (22a). When the outdoor fan (22) is rotated, the air sucked into the blower chamber (32) from the suction port (70a) exchanges heat with the refrigerant flowing through the outdoor heat exchanger (21). The air after heat exchange is blown out from the blowout port (70b) to the outside of the outdoor unit (20). In FIG. 3, the air flow is indicated by a white arrow.

[0042] The machine room (31) is a space on the right side of the partition member (28) inside the casing (70). In the machine room (31), a refrigerant cylinder (5), a pipe group (8), a water heat exchanger (15), an accumulator (25), a compressor (30), and a sound insulation member (60) are arranged.

[0043] The compressor (30) has support legs (30a). The support legs (30a) are supported by a plurality of first vibration isolation members (33). The first vibration isolation members (33) are made of, for example, rubber or urethane. The first vibration isolation members (33) are supported by the bottom plate (72) of the casing (70). Thereby, even if the compressor (30) vibrates during the operation of the refrigeration cycle device (1), the vibration is attenuated by the first vibration isolation members (33) before being transmitted to the bottom plate (72).

[0044] The refrigerant cylinder (5) and the water heat exchanger (15) are supported by the bottom plate of the casing. The accumulator (25) is supported by a stay (not shown) at a position away from the bottom plate (72) of the casing (70).

[0045] The sound insulation member (60) is formed in a hollow shape with an open bottom, specifically, in a box shape with an open bottom. Specifically, the sound insulation member (60) has an upper side wall (61), a front side wall (63), a rear side wall (64), a left side wall (65), and a right side wall (66). The upper side wall (61) faces the upper panel (71) and constitutes the upper surface of the sound insulation member (60). The front side wall (63) faces the front panel (73) and constitutes the front surface of the sound insulation member (60). The rear side wall (64) faces the rear panel (74) and constitutes the rear surface of the sound insulation member (60). The left side wall (65) faces the left panel (75) and constitutes the left surface of the sound insulation member (60). The right side wall (66) faces the right panel (76) and constitutes the right surface of the sound insulation member (60).

[0046] The sound insulation member (60) is supported by the bottom plate (72) of the casing (70). The sound insulation member (60) is composed of an airtight member. The sound insulation member (60) is composed of, for example, a metal plate material or a rubber sheet.

[0047] The sound insulation member (60) partitions a first space (S1) that houses the compressor (30) and the accumulator (25). Specifically, in this embodiment, the first space (S1) is partitioned by the sound insulation member (60) and the bottom plate (72) of the casing (70). The sound insulation member (60) covers the compressor (30) and the accumulator (25). In the first space (S1) inside the sound insulation member (60), in addition to the compressor (30) and the accumulator (25), a refrigerant cylinder (5), a pipe group (8), and a water heat exchanger (15) are also housed. The sound insulation member (60) covers the refrigerant cylinder (5), the pipe group (8), and the water heat exchanger (15).

[0048] The pipe group (8) includes a valve body (9) and a pipe (26). The valve body (9) includes an outdoor expansion valve (23), a four-way switching valve (24), and an electromagnetic valve (29). Note that the pipe group (8) may include an internal heat exchanger, a muffler, a filter, etc. that allow heat exchange between refrigerants. The valve body (9) may include an electric valve, a check valve, a three-way valve, etc.

[0049] The sound insulation member (60) and the casing (70) are arranged with a predetermined interval therebetween. A second space (S2) is formed between the outer surface of the sound insulation member (60) and the inner surface of the casing (70). The second space (S2) constitutes a part of the machine room (31).

[0050] (2) Features regarding refrigerant leakage countermeasures As described above, the sound insulation member (60) houses the compressor (30), the accumulator (25), the water heat exchanger (15), the pipe group (8), etc. There is a risk of refrigerant leakage from these devices. The leaked refrigerant flows out into the first space (S1) inside the sound insulation member (60). Here, for example, a refrigerant such as propane has a higher specific gravity than air, so it moves to the lower part of the first space (S1). As a result, in the lower part of the first space (S1), the concentration of the refrigerant becomes high, and there is a risk of reaching the ignition concentration. Therefore, in the present embodiment, a structure is adopted to suppress the increase in the refrigerant concentration.

[0051] (2-1) First communication passage The outdoor unit (20) has a first communication passage (41). The first communication passage (41) is a flow path for allowing the refrigerant in the first space (S1) inside the sound insulation member (60) to flow out to the outside of the sound insulation member (60). The first communication passage (41) communicates the lower part of the first space (S1) with the second space (S2) outside the sound insulation member (60).

[0052] As shown in FIGS. 2, 4, and 5, the first communication passage (41) of the present embodiment is formed between the lower end of the sound insulation member (60) and the bottom plate (72) of the casing (70). The first communication passage (41) is formed, for example, between the lower end of the left side wall (65) of the sound insulation member (60) and the bottom plate (72). The first communication passage (41) is formed at an intermediate portion in the horizontal direction at the lower end of the left side wall (65). The first communication passage (41) is formed in a horizontally long shape extending in the front-rear direction.

[0053] The first communication passage (41) is formed by providing a folding portion (42) at the lower end of the left side wall (65). The folding portion (42) is provided between a pair of cutout portions (43, 43) extending upward from the lower end of the left side wall (65). One of the pair of cutout portions (43, 43) is located near the front end of the left side wall (65), and the other is located near the rear end of the left side wall (65). In the folding portion (42), a folding line (44) extending horizontally is formed across the upper ends on both sides of the pair of cutout portions (43, 43). The portion of the left side wall (65) between the pair of cutout portions (43, 43) is folded upward with reference to the folding line (44), thereby forming the folding portion (42). As a result, a first communication passage (41) extending horizontally is formed between the folding line (44) and the bottom plate (72). In this example, the folding portion (42) is folded to the outside of the sound insulation member (60), but it may be folded to the inside of the sound insulation member (60). The angle (θ1 in FIG. 4) formed by the wall surface of the main body of the sound insulation member (60) and the wall surface of the folding portion (42) is preferably 90 degrees or more and 150 degrees or less. Thereby, while maintaining the sound insulation effect to the side of the sound insulation member (60), the refrigerant in the second space (S2) can be smoothly discharged to the blower chamber (32). In this example, θ1 is 135 degrees.

[0054] Support portions (45) that contact the bottom plate (72) of the casing (70) are respectively formed at portions of the left side wall (65) located on both end sides in the horizontal direction (front-rear direction) with respect to the pair of cutout portions (43, 43).

[0055] The first communication passage (41) is located in the vicinity of the bottom plate (72). At least a part of the first communication passage (41) is preferably located at a position lower than the lower end of the compressor (30), and more preferably, the entire first communication passage (41) is located at a position lower than the lower end of the compressor (30).

[0056] The first communication passage (41) may be provided corresponding to side walls other than the left side wall (65). The first communication passage (41) may be provided corresponding to at least one or all of, for example, the front side wall (63), the rear side wall (64), the right side wall (66), and the left side wall (65).

[0057] (2-2) Second communication path The outdoor unit (20) has a second communication path (48). The second communication path (48) is a flow path for allowing the refrigerant in the second space (S2) of the machine room (31) to flow out to the blower room (32). The second communication path (48) communicates the lower part of the second space (S2) with the blower room (32).

[0058] As shown in FIGS. 2 and 6, the second communication path (48) of the present embodiment is formed between the lower end of the partition member (28) and the bottom of the casing (70). Specifically, a plurality (three in this example) of ribs (49) extending in the left-right direction are formed on the bottom plate (72) of the casing (70). The cross section of the rib (49) when viewed from the left-right direction is convex, strictly trapezoidal. Grooves (50) corresponding to the respective ribs (49) are formed at the lower end of the partition member (28). The inside of each groove (50) is where the rib (49) is located. The cross section of the groove (50) when viewed from the left-right direction is a similar shape slightly larger than that of the rib (49). For this reason, a gap constituting the second communication path (48) is formed between the rib (49) and the inner edge of the groove (50). Strictly speaking, the second communication path (48) is composed of a front gap (48a) formed in front of the rib (49), an intermediate gap (48b) formed above the rib (49), and a rear side (48c) formed behind the rib (49) being continuous.

[0059] (2-3) Flow of leaked refrigerant During the operation of the refrigeration cycle device (1), when refrigerant leaks from the equipment inside the sound insulation member (60), this refrigerant moves to the lower part of the first space (S1). The refrigerant in the lower part of the first space (S1) flows out to the second space (S2) of the machine room (31) through the first communication path (41). Thereby, it is possible to suppress an increase in the concentration of the refrigerant in the lower part of the first space (S1), and it is possible to suppress the concentration of this refrigerant from reaching the ignition concentration.

[0060] The refrigerant in the second space (S2) of the machine room (31) flows out into the blower room (32) through the second communication passage (48). During the operation of the refrigeration cycle device (1), the outdoor fan (22) is generally in an operating state. Therefore, the refrigerant in the blower room (32) flows out of the casing (70) from the air outlet (70b) together with the outdoor air blown by the outdoor fan (22). As a result, it is possible to suppress an increase in the concentration of the refrigerant in the second space (S2), and it is possible to suppress the refrigerant from reaching the ignition concentration.

[0061] (3) Effects of the Embodiment (3-1) The outdoor unit (20) is disposed inside the casing (70), and includes an airtight soundproof member (60) that covers the compressor (30) so as to partition a first space (S1) for housing the compressor (30), a lower portion of the first space (S1), and a first communication passage (41) that communicates the second space (S2) between the soundproof member (60) and the casing (70).

[0062] With this configuration, the refrigerant that has moved to the lower portion of the first space (S1) can be made to flow out into the second space (S2) through the first communication passage (41). As a result, it is possible to suppress an increase in the concentration of the refrigerant in the first space (S1).

[0063] Furthermore, the double soundproof structure of the soundproof member (60) and the casing (70) can reduce the noise generated from the compressor (30) and the like.

[0064] (3-2) The outdoor unit (20) includes a partition member (28) that partitions the inside of the casing (70) into a machine room (31) in which the compressor (30) and the soundproof member (60) are disposed and that includes the second space (S2), and a blower room (32) in which the outdoor fan (22) and the outdoor heat exchanger (21) are disposed, and a second communication passage (48) that communicates the lower portion of the second space (S2) of the machine room (31) with the blower room (32).

[0065] With this configuration, the refrigerant that has moved to the lower part of the second space (S2) of the machine room (31) can be caused to flow out into the blower room (32) through the second communication passage (48). As a result, it is possible to suppress an increase in the concentration of the refrigerant in the second space (S2).

[0066] During operation of the refrigeration cycle apparatus (1), the outdoor fan (22) is in an operating state. For this reason, the refrigerant in the blower room (32) flows out from the air outlet (70b) to the outside of the casing (70) together with the outdoor air conveyed by the outdoor fan (22). As a result, it is possible to suppress an increase in the concentration of the refrigerant in the blower room (32).

[0067] (3-3) The sound insulation member (60) is formed in a hollow shape with an open lower side. The first communication passage (41) is formed between the lower end of the sound insulation member (60) and the bottom plate of the casing (70).

[0068] When refrigerant leaks into the first space (S1), the concentration of the refrigerant tends to increase particularly near the bottom plate (72) of the casing (70). This is because the refrigerant moves downward due to its own weight, and thus the concentration of the refrigerant increases as it approaches the bottom plate (72). In the present embodiment, since the first communication passage (41) is formed along the bottom plate (72), it is possible to suppress an increase in the concentration of the refrigerant near the bottom plate (72).

[0069] If a through hole is formed in the sound insulation member (60) to form the first communication passage (41), the sound insulation effect on the side of the casing (70) may decrease. In the present embodiment, since the first communication passage (41) is formed between the lower end of the sound insulation member (60) and the bottom plate of the casing (70), the sound insulation effect on the side of the sound insulation member (60) can be improved as compared with the case where a through hole is formed. As described above, in the first communication passage (41) of the present embodiment, both the effect of suppressing an increase in the concentration of the refrigerant and the effect of suppressing noise can be improved. Further, the processing of the first communication passage (41) is easier as compared with the case where a through hole or the like is formed.

[0070] (3-4) The first communication path (41) is configured by forming a folded-back portion (42) at a part of the lower end of the sound insulation member (60). Therefore, the processing of the first communication path (41) becomes even easier. The folded-back portion (42) also contributes to noise reduction.

[0071] (4) Modification The above embodiment may also be configured as follows in the modification. Hereinafter, the differences from the above embodiment will be described. Note that the same reference numerals are given to the same parts as in the embodiment.

[0072] (4-1) Modification 1 As shown in FIG. 7, a drain pan (51) is formed in the blower chamber (32) of Modification 1. The drain pan (51) is disposed below the outdoor heat exchanger (21). The drain pan (51) is a tray for receiving the water condensed by the outdoor heat exchanger (21). A drain outlet (52) is formed at the bottom of the drain pan (51). The drain outlet (52) constitutes the inflow end of the drain drainage channel (53). The outflow end of the drain drainage channel (53) opens to the outside of the casing (70). The drain drainage channel (53) includes a flow path such as a drain hose. The drain drainage channel (53) constitutes a third communication path that communicates the lower part of the blower chamber (32) with the outside of the casing (70).

[0073] In Modification 1, the refrigerant that has moved to the bottom of the blower chamber (32) flows out to the outside of the casing (70) through the drain drainage channel (53). As a result, it is possible to suppress an increase in the concentration of the refrigerant near the bottom of the blower chamber (32). Even when the outdoor fan (22) is in a stopped state, the refrigerant in the blower chamber (32) can be discharged to the outside of the casing (70). Since the drain drainage channel (53) serves both as a flow path for discharging drain water and a flow path for discharging refrigerant, the number of components can be reduced.

[0074] (4-2) Modification 2 As shown in Fig. 8, a fourth communication passage (54) is formed in the casing (70) of Modification 2. The fourth communication passage (54) is a passage for directly discharging the refrigerant in the second space (S2) to the outside of the casing (70). The first communication passage (41) of Modification 2 is formed, for example, in the right side wall (66). The fourth communication passage (54) is formed, for example, in the lower part of the right panel (76). The fourth communication passage (54) is constituted by a hole penetrating the right panel (76) in the thickness direction.

[0075] The fourth communication passage (54) is located near the bottom plate (72). At least a part of the fourth communication passage (54) is preferably at a position lower than the lower end of the compressor (30), and more preferably the entire fourth communication passage (54) is at a position lower than the lower end of the compressor (30).

[0076] The fourth communication passage (54) may be provided corresponding to side panels other than the right panel (76). The fourth communication passage (54) may be provided corresponding to at least one or all of, for example, the front panel (73), the rear panel (74), the right panel (76), and the left panel (75).

[0077] Also in Modification 2, the refrigerant in the first space (S1) flows out into the second space (S2) through the first communication passage (41). The refrigerant in the second space (S2) flows out to the outside of the casing (70) through the fourth communication passage (54). As a result, it is possible to suppress an increase in the concentration of the refrigerant in the second space (S2).

[0078] (4-3) Modification 3 In Modification 3 shown in Fig. 9, a drain hole (55) is formed in the portion of the bottom plate (72) of the casing (70) facing the second space (S2). The drain hole (55) constitutes the inflow end of the drain passage (56). The outflow end of the drain passage (56) opens to the outside of the casing (70). The drain passage (56) includes a passage such as a hose. The drain passage (56) constitutes a fourth communication passage that communicates the lower part of the second space (S2) in the machine room (31) with the outside of the casing (70).

[0079] In Modification 4, the refrigerant that has moved to the bottom of the second space (S2) in the machine room (31) flows out of the casing (70) through the drain channel (56). As a result, it is possible to suppress an increase in the concentration of the refrigerant near the bottom of the machine room (31). Since the drain channel (56) serves both as a channel for discharging the water accumulated in the machine room (31) and as a channel for discharging the refrigerant, the number of components can be reduced.

[0080] (4-4) Modification 4 In Modification 4 shown in Fig. 10, a first sound-absorbing material (81) is provided in the second space (S2) between the outer surface of the sound-insulating member (60) and the inner surface of the casing (70). The inner surface of the casing (70) includes the surface on the machine room (31) side of the partition member (28). The first sound-absorbing material (81) has air permeability. The first sound-absorbing material (81) is a resin material having continuous bubbles and is composed of, for example, urethane. The first sound-absorbing material (81) is disposed on the outer surface sides of the upper wall (61), the front wall (63), the rear wall (64), the left wall (65), and the right wall (66) of the sound-insulating member (60), respectively.

[0081] Also in Modification 4, the double sound-insulating structure of the sound-insulating member (60) and the casing (70) can suppress the leakage of the radiated sound and the vibration sound from the compressor (30) and the accumulator (25) to the outside. Further, the first sound-absorbing material (81) can suppress a decrease in the sound-insulating performance due to the low-frequency resonance transmission phenomenon and enhance the sound-proofing effect.

[0082] Specifically, when two plates have a double structure via a hollow layer, the two plates become two masses, and the air in the hollow layer vibrates as a spring connecting them, thereby generating a resonance phenomenon. In this case, the transmission loss becomes lower than that based on the mass law, and the sound-insulating performance deteriorates. Since this phenomenon generally occurs in the low-frequency range, it is called the low-frequency resonance transmission phenomenon.

[0083] On the other hand, in Modification 4, since the first sound-absorbing material (81) is provided between the outer surface of the sound-insulating member (60) and the inner surface of the casing (70), it is possible to suppress the occurrence of a resonance phenomenon in which the air in the gap between the sound-insulating member (60) and the casing (70) vibrates as a spring.

[0084] The refrigerant leaked into the first space (S1) flows out into the second space (S2) through the first communication passage (41). Since the first sound-absorbing material (81) has air permeability, the refrigerant in the second space (S2) passes through the first sound-absorbing material (81) and flows out into the blower chamber (32) through, for example, the second communication passage (48). Thus, in Modification 3, the leaked refrigerant can be discharged to the outside of the second space (S2) without processing a communication passage in the first sound-absorbing material (81).

[0085] Note that a communication passage for allowing the refrigerant to pass through may be processed between the lower end of the first sound-absorbing material (81) and the bottom plate (72) or below the first sound-absorbing material (81).

[0086] (4-5) Modification 5 In Modification 5 shown in FIG. 11, in the configuration of Modification 4, a second sound-absorbing material (82) is further provided on the inner surface of the sound-insulating member (60). The second sound-absorbing material (82) has air permeability. The second sound-absorbing material (82) is a resin material having continuous bubbles and is made of, for example, urethane. The second sound-absorbing material (82) is disposed on the inner surface sides of the upper side wall (61), the front side wall (63), the rear side wall (64), the left side wall (65), and the right side wall (66) of the sound-insulating member (60), respectively.

[0087] The second sound-absorbing material (82) can enhance the soundproofing effect by absorbing the radiated sound and vibration sound from the compressor (30) and the accumulator (25).

[0088] Specifically, when the compressor (30) and the accumulator (25) as sound sources are hermetically enclosed by the sound-insulating member (60) which is a box-shaped member, a so-called build-up phenomenon occurs in which the sound pressure level around the compressor (30) and the accumulator (25) increases due to the reflection of sound by the sound-insulating member (60) as compared with the case where the sound-insulating member (60) is not provided.

[0089] As a result, the sound pressure level outside the sound insulation member (60) is a value obtained by subtracting the transmission loss and the buildup of the sound insulation member (60) from the sound pressure level in the case where the sound insulation member (60) is not present. Therefore, the amount of sound reduction due to the provision of the sound insulation member (60) is smaller than the value expected based on the transmission loss.

[0090] In the present embodiment, by providing the second sound absorption material (62) on the inner surface of the sound insulation member (60), the sound pressure level inside the sound insulation member (60) can be attenuated. Thereby, the buildup can be suppressed.

[0091] Since the second sound absorption material (82) has air permeability, the refrigerant in the first space (S1) passes through the second sound absorption material (82) and flows out into the second space (S2) through the first communication path (41). Thus, in Modification 5, even without processing a communication path in the second sound absorption material (82), the refrigerant leaked into the first space (S1) can be discharged to the outside of the sound insulation member (60).

[0092] Note that a communication path for allowing the refrigerant to pass may be processed between the lower end of the second sound absorption material (82) and the bottom plate (72), or below the second sound absorption material (82).

[0093] (4-6) Modification 6 In Modification 6 shown in FIG. 12, in Modification 5, the first sound absorption material (81) is omitted. The first sound absorption material (81) is not provided in the second space (S2) between the sound insulation member (60) and the casing (70), and the second sound absorption material (82) is provided on the inner surface of the sound insulation member (60).

[0094] (4-7) Modification 7 As shown in FIGS. 13 and 14, in Modification 7, the compressor (30) has support legs (30a). The support legs (30a) are supported by a plurality of first vibration isolation members (33). The first vibration isolation members (33) are supported by a first support member (34). The first support member (34) is supported by a plurality of second vibration isolation members (35). The second vibration isolation members (35) are supported by a second support member (36). The second support member (36) in this example is the bottom plate (72) of the casing (70).

[0095] The first vibration isolation member (33) and the second vibration isolation member (35) are made of rubber or urethane. The material and spring constant of the first vibration isolation member (33) and the material and spring constant of the second vibration isolation member (35) may be the same as or different from each other.

[0096] The compressor (30) is disposed on a double vibration isolation structure via the first vibration isolation member (33), the first support member (34), and the second vibration isolation member (35). Therefore, even if the compressor (30) vibrates during the operation of the refrigeration cycle device (1), the transmission of the vibration and the generation of noise are suppressed.

[0097] The refrigerant cylinder (5) and the water heat exchanger (15) are supported by the first support member (34). The accumulator (25) is supported by a stay (not shown) at a position away from the bottom plate (72) of the casing (70).

[0098] The sound insulation member (60) is supported by the bottom plate (72) of the casing (70). In the first space (S1) inside the sound insulation member (60), the compressor (30), the accumulator (25), the refrigerant cylinder (5), the pipe group (8), and the water heat exchanger (15) are accommodated. The sound insulation member (60) covers the compressor (30), the accumulator (25), the refrigerant cylinder (5), the pipe group (8), and the water heat exchanger (15). A second space (S2) is formed between the outer surface of the sound insulation member (60) and the inner surface of the casing (70).

[0099] According to Modification 7, by supporting the compressor (30) with a two-layer vibration isolation structure in which the first vibration isolation member (33) and the second vibration isolation member (35) are laminated, the vibration of the compressor (30) can be attenuated.

[0100] Thereby, the vibration transmitted from the compressor (30) to the first support member (34) and the second support member (36) and the vibration transmitted from the compressor (30) to the pipe (26) are reduced, and the generation of vibration noise caused by the vibration of the first support member (34), the second support member (36), and the pipe (26) can be suppressed.

[0101] Note that the outdoor unit (20) of Modification 7 has the first sound-absorbing material (81) and the second sound-absorbing material (82), similar to Modification 5, but it may also be configured to omit one or both of these materials.

[0102] (5) Other Embodiments In the above embodiments and each modification, the following configurations may be adopted.

[0103] The first communication passage (41) may be configured by a hole that penetrates the sound insulation member (60) in the thickness direction, or may be configured by a notch formed at the lower end or the like of the sound insulation member (60).

[0104] The first communication passage (41) may be configured by a recess formed in the bottom plate (72) of the casing (70). In this case, the recess is formed so as to extend across the first space (S1) and the second space (S2).

[0105] The sound insulation member (60) may have a bottom wall with the lower side not open. In this case, the first communication passage (41) may be formed in the bottom wall of the sound insulation member (60).

[0106] The second communication passage (48) may be configured by a hole that penetrates the partition member (28) in the thickness direction, or may be configured by a notch formed at the lower end or the like of the partition member (28).

[0107] The second communication passage (48) may be configured by a recess formed in the bottom plate (72) of the casing (70). In this case, the recess is formed so as to extend across the second space (S2) and the blower chamber (32).

[0108] The third communication passage (53) may be configured by a hole in the portion of the casing (70) facing the blower chamber (32) in the thickness direction, or may be configured by a notch formed in the side plate of the casing (70).

[0109] The sound insulation member (60) may cover only the compressor (30), or may cover only the compressor (30), the accumulator (25), and the piping connecting the two.

[0110] The water heat exchanger (15) and the refrigerant cylinder (5) may be supported by the first vibration isolation member (33) or the second vibration isolation member (35).

[0111] The refrigeration cycle device (1) may supply the water heated by the water heat exchanger (15) to a supply target other than the hot water tank. The supply targets include a bath, a shower, a floor heating device, an air heat exchanger, etc.

[0112] The heat source unit (20) of the refrigeration cycle device (1) may not have a water heat exchanger (15), and may constitute a refrigerant circuit by being connected to a utilization unit via a refrigerant pipe. The utilization unit has a utilization heat exchanger that adjusts the temperature of air by means of a refrigerant. The utilization unit may be an air conditioning unit that air - conditions the target space. In this case, the air conditioning unit may be a ceiling - mounted type, a wall - mounted type, or a floor - standing type. The utilization unit may be a cooling unit that cools the air inside a storage. The cooling unit may cool the inside of a transport container for maritime or land use.

[0113] The heat source unit (20) does not necessarily have to be installed outdoors, and may be installed indoors. In this case, the heat source - side heat exchanger is not an outdoor heat exchanger (21), but is composed of a heat exchanger that exchanges heat between a heat medium such as water and a refrigerant.

[0114] Although the embodiments and modification examples have been described above, it will be understood that various changes in form and details are possible without departing from the spirit and scope of the claims. Also, the elements according to the above embodiments, modification examples, and other embodiments may be combined or replaced as appropriate. Also, the descriptions such as "first", "second", "third",... in the specification and claims are used to distinguish the clauses to which these descriptions are given, and do not limit the number or order of these clauses.

Industrial Applicability

[0115] As described above, the present disclosure is useful for a heat source unit and a refrigeration cycle apparatus.

Explanation of Signs

[0116] 1 Refrigeration cycle apparatus 20 Outdoor unit (heat source unit) 21 Outdoor heat exchanger (heat exchanger) 22 Outdoor fan (fan) 28 Partition member 30 Compressor 31 Machine room (first room) 32 Blower room (second room) 33 First vibration isolation member 34 First support member 35 Second vibration isolation member 36 Second support member 41 First communication path 48 Second communication path 53 Drain drainage path (third communication path) 54 Fourth communication path 56 Drainage path (fourth communication path) 60 Sound insulation member 70 Casing 72 Bottom plate 81 First sound absorption material 82 Second sound absorption material S1 First space S2 Second space

Claims

1. A heat source unit provided in a refrigeration cycle apparatus using a refrigerant having a specific gravity greater than that of air, a casing (70), a compressor (30) disposed inside the casing (70) for compressing the refrigerant, a non-venting sound insulation member (60) disposed inside the casing (70) and covering the compressor (30) so as to partition a first space (S1) for housing the compressor (30), and a first communication passage (41) for communicating a lower portion of the first space (S1) with a second space (S2) between the sound insulation member (60) and the casing (70). The heat source unit.

2. a fan (22), a heat exchanger (21) for exchanging heat between outdoor air conveyed by the fan (22) and the refrigerant, a partition member (28) for partitioning the inside of the casing (70) into a first chamber (31) in which the compressor (30) and the sound insulation member (60) are disposed and which includes the second space (S2), and a second chamber (32) in which the fan (22) and the heat exchanger (21) are disposed, and a second communication passage (48) for communicating a lower portion of the second space (S2) in the first chamber (31) with the second chamber (32). The heat source unit according to claim 1.

3. The heat source unit according to claim 2, further comprising a third communication passage (53) for communicating a lower portion of the second chamber (32) with the outside of the casing (70). The heat source unit according to claim 2.

4. The heat source unit according to any one of claims 1 to 3, further comprising fourth communication passages (54, 56) for communicating a lower portion of the second space (S2) with the outside of the casing (70). The heat source unit according to any one of claims 1 to 3.

5. The sound insulation member (60) is formed in a hollow shape with an open lower side, and the first communication passage (41) is formed between a lower end of the sound insulation member (60) and a bottom plate of the casing (70). The heat source unit according to any one of claims 1 to 3.

6. The heat source unit according to any one of claims 1 to 3, further comprising a breathable first sound absorbing material (81) provided between an outer surface of the sound insulation member (60) and an inner surface of the casing (70). The heat source unit according to any one of claims 1 to 3.

7. The heat source unit according to any one of claims 1 to 3, further comprising a breathable second sound absorbing material (82) provided on an inner surface of the sound insulation member (60). The heat source unit according to any one of claims 1 to 3.

8. The heat source unit according to claim 7, further comprising a breathable first sound absorbing material (81) provided between an outer surface of the sound insulation member (60) and an inner surface of the casing (70). The heat source unit according to claim 7.

9. The first vibration isolation member (33) that supports the compressor (30), The first support member (34) that supports the first vibration isolation member (33), The second vibration isolation member (35) that supports the first support member (34), And a second support member (36) that supports the second vibration isolation member (35). The heat source unit according to any one of claims 1 to 3.

10. A refrigeration cycle apparatus including the heat source unit according to any one of claims 1 to 3.

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