Refrigeration system and heat pump system with pressure exchanger

Abstract

The fluid processing system includes a pressure exchanger (PX) configured to receive a first fluid at a first pressure and a second fluid at a second pressure and exchange pressure between the first fluid and the second fluid. The system further includes a condenser configured to provide corresponding thermal energy from the first fluid to a corresponding environment. The system further includes a receiver configured to receive the first fluid output by the PX. The receiver includes a chamber for separating the first fluid into a first gas and a first liquid. The system further includes a heat exchanger configured to receive the second fluid from a second outlet of the PX and provide the second fluid to a second inlet of the PX.

Description

[Technical Field]

[0001] The present disclosure relates to systems, and more particularly, to refrigeration and heat pump systems having pressure exchangers. [Background technology]

[0002] The system uses fluids at different pressures. The system uses pumps or compressors to increase the pressure of the fluids.

[0003] The present disclosure is illustrated by way of example, and not by way of limitation, in the figures of the accompanying drawings. [Brief explanation of the drawings]

[0004] [Figure 1A] FIG. 1A shows a schematic diagram of a fluid treatment system including a hydraulic energy transfer system, according to certain embodiments. [Figure 1B] FIG. 1B shows a schematic diagram of a fluid processing system including a hydraulic energy transfer system, according to certain embodiments. [Figure 2A] FIG. 2A is an exploded perspective view of a pressure exchanger (PX) according to certain embodiments. [Figure 2B] FIG. 2B is an exploded perspective view of a pressure exchanger (PX) according to certain embodiments. [Figure 2C] FIG. 2C is an exploded perspective view of a pressure exchanger (PX) according to certain embodiments. [Figure 2D] FIG. 2D is an exploded perspective view of a pressure exchanger (PX) according to certain embodiments. [Figure 2E] FIG. 2E is an exploded perspective view of a pressure exchanger (PX) according to certain embodiments. [Figure 3A] FIG. 3A is a schematic diagram of a refrigeration system including a PX, according to certain embodiments. [Figure 3B] FIG. 3B is a schematic diagram of a refrigeration system including a PX, according to certain embodiments. [Figure 3C]FIG. 3C is a schematic diagram of a refrigeration system including a PX, according to certain embodiments. [Figure 3D] FIG. 3D is a schematic diagram of a refrigeration system including a PX, according to certain embodiments. [Figure 3E] FIG. 3E is a schematic diagram of a refrigeration system including a PX, according to certain embodiments. [Figure 3F] FIG. 3F is a schematic diagram of a refrigeration system including a PX, according to certain embodiments. [Figure 3G] FIG. 3G is a schematic diagram of a refrigeration system including a PX, according to certain embodiments. [Figure 3H] FIG. 3H is a schematic diagram of a refrigeration system including a PX, according to certain embodiments. [Figure 3I] FIG. 3I is a schematic diagram of a refrigeration system including a PX, according to certain embodiments. [Figure 3J] FIG. 3J is a schematic diagram of a refrigeration system including a PX, according to certain embodiments. [Figure 3K] FIG. 3K is a schematic diagram of a refrigeration system including a PX, according to certain embodiments. [Figure 3L] FIG. 3L is a schematic diagram of a refrigeration system including a PX, according to certain embodiments. [Figure 3M] FIG. 3M is a schematic diagram of a refrigeration system including a PX, according to certain embodiments. [Figure 3M.1] FIG. 3M.1 is a schematic diagram of a refrigeration system including a PX, according to certain embodiments. [Figure 3M.2] FIG. 3M.2 is a schematic diagram of a refrigeration system including a PX, according to certain embodiments. [Figure 3M.3] FIG. 3M.3 is a schematic diagram of a refrigeration system including a PX, according to certain embodiments. [Figure 3M.4] FIG. 3M.4 is a schematic diagram of a refrigeration system including a PX, according to certain embodiments. [Figure 3M.5] FIG. 3M.5 is a schematic diagram of a refrigeration system including a PX, according to certain embodiments. [Figure 3M.6]FIG. 3M.6 is a schematic diagram of a refrigeration system including a PX, according to certain embodiments. [Figure 3N] FIG. 3N is a schematic diagram of a refrigeration system including a PX, according to certain embodiments. [Figure 3O] FIG. 3O is a schematic diagram of a refrigeration system including a PX, according to certain embodiments. [Figure 3P] FIG. 3P is a schematic diagram of a refrigeration system including a PX, according to certain embodiments. [Figure 4A] FIG. 4A is a schematic diagram of a refrigeration system including a PX and an ejector, according to certain embodiments. [Figure 4B] FIG. 4B is a schematic diagram of a refrigeration system including a PX and an ejector, according to certain embodiments. [Figure 5A] FIG. 5A is a schematic diagram of a refrigeration system including a PX and a secondary evaporator, according to certain embodiments. [Figure 5B] FIG. 5B is a schematic diagram of a refrigeration system including a PX and a secondary evaporator, according to certain embodiments. [Figure 6A] FIG. 6A is a flow diagram illustrating an exemplary method for controlling a refrigeration system, according to certain embodiments. [Figure 6B] FIG. 6B is a flow diagram illustrating an exemplary method for controlling a refrigeration system, according to certain embodiments. [Figure 6C] FIG. 6C is a flow diagram illustrating an exemplary method for controlling a refrigeration system, according to certain embodiments. [Figure 7] FIG. 7 is a block diagram illustrating a computer system, in accordance with certain embodiments. DETAILED DESCRIPTION OF THE INVENTION

[0005] SUMMARY OF THE INVENTION Embodiments described herein relate to refrigeration and heat pump systems (eg, fluid handling systems, heat transfer systems, pressure exchange systems, carbon dioxide (CO2) refrigeration systems, etc.) that include pressure exchangers.

[0006] Systems may use fluids at different pressures. These systems may include hydraulic fracturing (fracking or fracing) systems, desalination systems, refrigeration systems, heat pump systems, energy generation systems, mud pump systems, slurry pump systems, industrial fluid systems, waste fluid systems, fluid transport systems, etc. Pumps or compressors may be used to increase the pressure of the fluids used by the systems.

[0007] Traditionally, refrigeration systems use pumps or compressors to increase the pressure of a fluid (e.g., a refrigeration fluid such as CO2, R-744, R-134a, hydrocarbons, hydrofluorocarbons (HFCs), hydrochlorofluorocarbons (HCFCs), ammonia (NH3), refrigerant mixtures, R-407A, R-404A). Traditionally, a separate pump or compressor mechanically coupled to a motor is used to increase the fluid pressure. Pumps and compressors operating across a large pressure differential (e.g., causing a large pressure increase in the fluid) use a large amount of energy. Thus, traditional systems consume a large amount of energy to increase the fluid pressure (via the pump or compressor driven by the motor). Additionally, traditional refrigeration systems reduce the fluid pressure via an expansion valve and / or a heat exchanger (e.g., a condenser and / or evaporator). Traditional systems are inefficient at increasing and reducing the fluid pressure. This is wasteful in terms of the energy used to run conventional systems (e.g., energy used to repeatedly increase the pressure of a refrigerated fluid or to increase or decrease the temperature of the surrounding environment).

[0008] The disclosed systems, apparatus, and methods provide a fluid processing system (e.g., for refrigeration, cooling, heating, etc.). In some embodiments, the system (e.g., a fluid processing system, a refrigeration system, a heat pump system, a heat transfer system, a CO2 refrigeration system, etc.) includes a pressure exchanger (PX) configured to exchange pressure between a first fluid (e.g., a high-pressure portion of a refrigeration fluid in a refrigeration cycle) and a second fluid (e.g., a low-pressure portion of a refrigeration fluid in a refrigeration cycle). In some embodiments, the PX may receive the first fluid (e.g., a portion of the high-pressure refrigeration fluid) via a first inlet (e.g., a high-pressure inlet) and the second fluid (e.g., a portion of the low-pressure refrigeration fluid) via a second inlet (e.g., a low-pressure inlet). Upon entering the PX, the first fluid may have a higher pressure than the second fluid. The PX may exchange pressure between the first fluid and the second fluid. A first fluid may exit the PX through a first outlet (e.g., a low-pressure outlet), and a second fluid may exit the PX through a second outlet (e.g., a high-pressure outlet). Upon exiting the PX, the second fluid may have a pressure greater than the first pressure (e.g., by exchanging pressure between the first and second fluids).

[0009] In some embodiments, the system further includes a pressure exchanger (e.g., a condenser, a condensing unit (CU), a gas cooler, an air conditioning condenser) configured to provide a first fluid to the PX (e.g., via a first inlet of the PX) and transfer corresponding thermal energy (e.g., heat) between the first fluid and a corresponding environment (e.g., a heat sink, a hot reservoir, a heat source, a cold source, ambient air, the ground). In some embodiments, the first fluid (e.g., a high-pressure fluid) loses heat to the environment and condenses in the heat exchanger. An output of the heat exchanger (e.g., a portion of the heat exchanger output, the first fluid, etc.) may be provided to a high-pressure inlet of the PX. The heat exchanger may be upstream of the PX in the flow path of the first fluid.

[0010] In some embodiments, the system further includes a receiver (e.g., a flash tank) for receiving the first fluid output from the low-pressure outlet of the PX. The receiver can form a chamber in which the low-pressure first fluid gas and liquid can be separated. The booster can receive gas (e.g., the high-pressure first fluid gas) from the receiver and increase the pressure of the gas to form a second fluid.

[0011] In some embodiments, the system further includes a booster configured to receive gas (e.g., a low-pressure gas of the first fluid) from the receiver, increase the pressure of the gas (e.g., a first portion of the first gas) to form a second fluid () at a second pressure, and provide the second fluid at the second pressure to the PX via the second inlet. The booster can be a pump or a compressor and can increase the pressure of the second fluid across a relatively low pressure differential. Further details regarding booster pressure differentials are described herein. The booster can provide the second fluid to a low-pressure inlet (e.g., a second inlet) of the PX at the second pressure.

[0012] The system may further include one or more of an expansion valve, another heat exchanger (e.g., an evaporator), and a compressor for implementing a refrigeration cycle. The refrigeration fluid may expand through the expansion valve, reducing its pressure and temperature. The refrigeration fluid may receive thermal energy (e.g., heat) from another environment (e.g., a heat source, a cryogenic reservoir) via another heat exchanger (e.g., an evaporator). The refrigeration fluid may be compressed in the compressor, increasing the pressure of the refrigeration fluid. Thermal energy may be rejected from the refrigeration fluid in the condenser, and a first fluid (e.g., at least a portion of the refrigeration fluid) may flow into the PX to exchange pressure with a second fluid as part of the refrigeration cycle.

[0013] In some embodiments, the system includes a PX and a condenser. The system may further include an ejector. The ejector can receive a first gas output from the PX and increase the pressure of the first gas to form a second fluid at a second pressure. The ejector can provide the second fluid at a second pressure to the PX via a second inlet. The ejector can receive a high-pressure gas output from a compressor (e.g., a compressor as described herein) and combine the first gas and the high-pressure gas in a converging nozzle of the ejector to increase the pressure of the first gas. In some embodiments, the ejector substantially performs the function of a booster as described above.

[0014] In some embodiments, the system includes a PX and a condenser. The system may further include a first evaporator and a second evaporator. The first evaporator may provide corresponding thermal energy (e.g., heat) from a second environment to a portion of the first fluid output from the PX. The second evaporator may provide corresponding thermal energy (e.g., heat) from a third environment to another portion of the first fluid output from the PX. The system may further include a first compressor and a second compressor. The first compressor may receive the fluid output from the first evaporator, increase the pressure of the fluid, and provide the fluid to the compressor. The second compressor may receive the fluid output from the second evaporator, increase the pressure of the fluid to form a second fluid (e.g., at a second pressure), and provide the second fluid to the PX.

[0015] The systems, apparatus, and methods of the present disclosure have advantages over conventional solutions. The systems of the present disclosure can use less energy than conventional systems (e.g., less energy is used to run a refrigeration or heat pump system). The PX can allow for the recovery of energy (e.g., pressure) that is typically lost in conventional systems. This allows the systems of the present disclosure to be more efficient, thus using less energy and requiring less time for the end user than conventional solutions. Furthermore, the systems of the present disclosure reduce wear on components (e.g., pumps, compressors) compared to conventional systems because the pumps or compressors of the systems disclosed herein can run more efficiently than conventional systems (e.g., the PX performs some of the fluid pressure increase, reducing the load on the pump and / or compressor). Furthermore, some systems described herein reduce the number of moving components (e.g., some systems use ejectors instead of boosters). This also allows the systems of the present disclosure to improve reliability, reduce maintenance, increase component life, reduce system downtime, and increase yields. The systems of the present disclosure may use pressure exchangers that allow for longer life for the system components, which improves system efficiency, allows end users to choose from a wider range of pumps and / or compressors, reduces maintenance and downtime of pumps and / or compressors during operation, and enables new equipment and controls.

[0016] Although some embodiments of the present disclosure are described in connection with pressure exchangers, energy recovery devices, and hydraulic energy transmission systems, the present disclosure is also applicable to other systems and devices (e.g., non-isobaric pressure exchangers, rotating components that are not pressure exchangers, non-rotary pressure exchangers, systems that do not include pressure exchangers, etc.).

[0017] Although some embodiments of the present disclosure are described with respect to exchanging pressure between fluids used in fracing systems, desalination systems, heat pump systems, and refrigeration systems, the present disclosure is applicable to other types of systems. Fluids may refer to liquids, gases, transcritical fluids, supercritical fluids, subcritical fluids, and / or combinations thereof.

[0018] As used herein, the term condenser may be a gas cooler. In some embodiments, the condenser condenses a fluid. In some embodiments, the condenser does not condense a fluid.

[0019] FIG. 1A shows a schematic diagram of a fluid treatment system 100A including a hydraulic energy transfer system 110, according to certain embodiments.

[0020] In some embodiments, hydraulic energy transfer system 110 includes a pressure exchanger (e.g., PX). Hydraulic energy transfer system 110 (e.g., PX) receives low-pressure (LP) in fluid 120 from LP in system 122 (e.g., via a low-pressure inlet). Hydraulic energy transfer system 110 also receives high-pressure (HP) in fluid 130 from HP in system 132 (e.g., via a high-pressure inlet). Hydraulic energy transfer system 110 (e.g., PX) exchanges pressure between HP in fluid 130 and LP in fluid 120 to provide LP out fluid 140 to LP out system 142 (e.g., via a low-pressure outlet) and provide HP out fluid 150 to HP out system 152 (e.g., via a high-pressure outlet). Controller 180 can cause regulation of the flow rates of HP in fluid 130 and LP out fluid 140 by one or more flow valves, pumps, and / or compressors (not shown). The controller 180 may operate the flow valves.

[0021] In some embodiments, hydraulic energy transfer system 110 includes a PX for exchanging pressure between HPin fluid 130 and LPin fluid 120. In some embodiments, the PX is substantially or partially isobaric (e.g., an isobaric pressure exchanger (IPX)). The PX can be a device that transfers fluid pressure between HPin fluid 130 and LPin fluid 120 with an efficiency (e.g., pressure transfer efficiency, substantially isobaric) of greater than about 50%, 60%, 70%, 80%, 90%, or greater (e.g., without utilizing centrifugal methods). High pressure (e.g., HPin fluid 130, HPout fluid 150) refers to a pressure greater than low pressure (e.g., LPin fluid 120, LPout fluid 140). The LPin fluid 120 of the PX may be pressurized and exit the PX at a high pressure (e.g., HPout fluid 150, at a pressure higher than that of the LPin fluid 120), and the HPin fluid 130 may be at least partially depressurized and exit the PX at a low pressure (e.g., LPout fluid 140, at a pressure lower than that of the HPin fluid 130). The PX may operate with the HPin fluid 130 directly pressurizing the LPin fluid 120, with or without a fluid separator between the fluids. Examples of fluid separators that may be used with the PX include, but are not limited to, pistons, bladders, diaphragms, etc. In some embodiments, the PX may be a rotary device. Rotary PXs, such as those manufactured by Energy Recovery Inc. of San Leandro, California, may not have separate valves, as effective valving is achieved internally through the relative movement of the rotor with respect to the end cover. In some embodiments, a rotary PX operates using internal pistons to isolate fluids and transfer pressure with significantly less mixing of the inlet fluid streams. In some embodiments, a rotary PX operates without an internal piston between the fluids. A reciprocating PX can include a piston that moves back and forth within a cylinder to transfer pressure between the fluid streams. Any one or more PXs, for example, but not limited to, a rotary PX, a reciprocating PX, or any combination thereof, can be used in the present disclosure.The PX may also be located on a skid separate from other components of fluid treatment system 100A (e.g., when the PX is being added to an existing fluid treatment system). In some instances, the PX may be fixed to a structure that can be moved from one location to another. The PX may be coupled to a system (e.g., system pipes, etc.) that is constructed on-site. The structure to which the PX is fixed may be referred to as a "skid."

[0022] In some embodiments, a motor 160 is coupled to the hydraulic energy transmission system 110 (e.g., to PX). In some embodiments, the motor 160 controls the speed of a rotor of the hydraulic energy transmission system 110 (e.g., to increase the pressure of the HPout fluid 150, or to decrease the pressure of the HPout fluid 150). In some embodiments, the motor 160 generates energy (e.g., acts as a generator) based on pressure exchanges within the hydraulic energy transmission system 110.

[0023] The hydraulic energy transfer system 110 may include a hydraulic pressure exchanger, such as a hydraulic turbocharger or a rotary PX. The PX may include one or more chambers and / or channels (e.g., 1 to 100) to facilitate pressure transfer between a first fluid and a second fluid (e.g., gas, liquid, multiphase fluid). In some embodiments, the PX may transfer pressure between a first fluid (e.g., a pressure exchange fluid such as a proppant-free fluid, a substantially proppant-free fluid, a low-viscosity fluid, a fluid having a particular chemical in an amount less than a threshold value, etc.) and a second fluid, which may have a high viscosity (e.g., more viscous), a particular chemical in an amount greater than a threshold value, and / or contain solid particles (e.g., fracking fluid and / or fluids containing sand, proppant, debris, ceramics, contamination, particles from welded or soldered joints).

[0024] In some embodiments, the L-pin system 122 includes a booster (e.g., a pump and / or a compressor) to increase the pressure of the fluid to form the L-pin fluid 120. In some embodiments, the L-pin system 122 includes an ejector to increase the pressure of the fluid to form the L-pin fluid 120. In some embodiments, the L-pin system 122 receives gas from the L-pin system 142. In some embodiments, the L-pin system 122 receives fluid from a receiver (e.g., a flash tank). The receiver may receive the L-pin fluid 140 discharged from the hydraulic energy transfer system 110.

[0025] Fluid process system 100A may further include one or more sensors that provide sensor data (e.g., flow rate data, pressure data, velocity data, etc.) associated with the fluid in fluid process system 100A. Controller 180 may control one or more flow rates in fluid process system 100A based on the sensor data. In some embodiments, controller 180 actuates one or more flow valves based on the received sensor data.

[0026] One or more components of a hydraulic energy transfer system may be used in different types of systems, such as fracking systems, refrigeration and heat pump systems (e.g., FIG. 1B), slurry pump systems, industrial fluid systems, waste fluid systems, fluid transport systems, and heat transfer systems.

[0027] FIG. 1B shows a schematic diagram of a fluid treatment system 100B including a hydraulic energy transfer system 110, according to certain embodiments. Fluid treatment system 100B may be a refrigeration system or a heat pump system. In some embodiments, fluid treatment system 100B is a thermal energy (e.g., heat) transport system (e.g., a thermal (heat) transport system). Fluid treatment system 100B may be configured to cool and / or heat an environment (e.g., an indoor space, a refrigeration unit, a freezer, etc.). In some embodiments, fluid treatment system 100B includes more components, fewer components, the same routing, different routing, and / or the like than those shown in FIG. 1B. Some of the features in FIG. 1B having similar reference numbers as FIG. 1A may have similar properties, functions, and / or structures as FIG. 1A.

[0028] The hydraulic energy transfer system 110 (e.g., PX) may receive an LPin fluid 120 from an LPin system 122 (e.g., low-pressure lift device 128, low-pressure fluid pump, low-pressure booster, low-pressure compressor, low-pressure ejector) and an HPin fluid 130 from an HPin system 132 (e.g., condenser 138, gas cooler, heat exchanger). The hydraulic energy transfer system 110 (e.g., PX) may exchange pressure between the LPin fluid 120 and the HPin fluid 130 to provide an HPout fluid 150 to an HPout system 152 (e.g., high-pressure lift device 159, high-pressure fluid pump, high-pressure booster, high-pressure compressor, high-pressure ejector) and provide an LPout fluid 140 to an LPout system 142 (e.g., evaporator 144, heat exchanger, receiver 113). LPout system 142 (e.g., evaporator 144, receiver 113) may provide fluid to compressor 178 and low-pressure lift device 128. Evaporator 144 may provide fluid to compressor 178, and receiver 113 (e.g., a flash tank) may provide fluid to low-pressure lift device 128. Condenser 138 may receive fluid from compressor 178 and high-pressure lift device 159. High-pressure lift device 159 may be a high-pressure booster, and low-pressure lift device 128 may be a low-pressure booster. As used herein, the term condenser may refer to a gas cooler. In some embodiments, a condenser condenses a fluid. In some embodiments, a condenser does not condense a fluid (e.g., is a gas cooler). Controller 180 may control one or more components of fluid processing system 100B. It may be the case that high-pressure lift device 159 is a high-pressure booster, and low-pressure lift device 128 is a low-pressure booster.

[0029] Fluid treatment system 100B may be a closed system. LPin fluid 120, HPin fluid 130, LPout fluid 140, and HPout fluid 150 may all be fluids (e.g., refrigerants, the same fluid) that are circulated within the closed system of fluid treatment system 100B.

[0030] Fluid treatment system 100B may further include one or more sensors configured to provide sensor data associated with the fluid. One or more flow valves may control the flow rate of the fluid based on the sensor data received from the one or more sensors. In some embodiments, controller 180 actuates the one or more flow valves based on the received sensor data.

[0031] 2A-2E are exploded perspective views of a rotary PX 40 (e.g., a rotary pressure exchanger, a rotary liquid piston compressor (LPC)) according to certain embodiments. Some of the features in one or more of FIGS. 2A-2E may have similar properties, functions, and / or structures as those described in one or more of FIGS. 1A-1B.

[0032] PX 40 is configured to transfer pressure and / or work between a first fluid (e.g., refrigerant, particle-free fluid, proppant-free fluid, supercritical carbon dioxide, HPin fluid 130) and a second fluid (e.g., refrigerant, slurry fluid, fracking fluid, superheated carbon dioxide gas, LPin fluid 120) with minimal fluid mixing. Rotary PX 40 may include a generally cylindrical body portion 42 including a sleeve 44 (e.g., rotor sleeve) and a rotor 46. Rotary PX 40 may also include two end caps 48 and 50 including manifolds 52 and 54, respectively. Manifold 52 includes a respective inlet port 56 and outlet port 58, and manifold 54 includes a respective inlet port 60 and outlet port 62. In operation, these inlet ports 56, 60 allow the first and second fluids to enter and exchange pressure with the rotary PX 40, while the outlet ports 58, 62 allow the first and second fluids to exit the rotary PX 40. In operation, the inlet port 56 receives a high-pressure first fluid (e.g., HPin fluid 130) output from the condenser, and after exchanging pressure, the outlet port 58 can be used to send a low-pressure first fluid (e.g., LPout fluid 140) out of the rotary PX 40 to a receiver (e.g., a flash tank) configured to receive the first fluid from the rotary PX 40. The receiver can form a chamber configured to separate the fluid into gas and liquid. Similarly, inlet port 60 may receive a low pressure second fluid (e.g., low pressure slurry fluid, LPin fluid 120) from a booster configured to receive a portion of the gas from a receiver, and outlet port 62 may be used to deliver a high pressure second fluid (e.g., high pressure slurry fluid, HPout fluid 150) from rotary PX 40. End caps 48 and 50 are disposed within respective manifolds 52 and 54 and include respective end covers 64 and 66 (e.g., end plates) that enable fluid-tight contact with rotor 46.

[0033] One or more components of PX 40, such as rotor 46, end cover 64, and / or end cover 66, may be constructed from a wear-resistant material (e.g., carbide, cemented carbide, silicon carbide, tungsten carbide, etc.) having a hardness greater than a predetermined threshold (e.g., at least 1000, 1250, 1500, 1750, 2000, 2250, or greater on the Vickers hardness scale). In some examples, tungsten carbide may be more durable and provide improved wear resistance to abrasive fluids compared to other materials, such as alumina ceramic. One or more components of PX 40, such as rotor 46, end cover 64, and / or end cover 66, and / or other sealing surfaces of PX 40 may include inserts. In some embodiments, the insert may be constructed from a wear-resistant material (e.g., carbide, cemented carbide, silicon carbide, tungsten carbide, etc.) having a hardness greater than a predetermined threshold (e.g., a Vickers hardness number of at least 1000, 1250, 1500, 1750, 2000, 2250, or more) to enhance wear resistance.

[0034] The rotor 46 may be cylindrical and disposed within the sleeve 44, allowing the rotor 46 to rotate about an axis 68. The rotor 46 may have a plurality of channels 70 (e.g., ducts, rotor ducts) extending generally longitudinally therethrough, with openings 72 and 74 (e.g., rotor ports) at each end symmetrically disposed about the longitudinal axis 68. The openings 72 and 74 in the rotor 46 are positioned to be in fluid communication with inlet apertures 76 and outlet apertures 78 (e.g., end cover inlet ports and end cover outlet ports) and 80 and 82 (e.g., end cover inlet ports and end cover outlet ports) in the end covers 64 and 66, respectively, such that the channels 70 are exposed to high-pressure and low-pressure fluids during rotation. As shown, the inlet apertures 76 and outlet apertures 78, 80, and 82 may be designed in the shape of an arc or a portion of a circle (e.g., C-shaped).

[0035] In some embodiments, a controller (e.g., controller 180 of FIGS. 1A-B) using sensor data (e.g., revolutions per minute measured via a tachometer or optical encoder, or volumetric flow rate measured via a flow meter) may control the degree of mixing of the first and second fluids within the rotary PX 40. This controller may be used to improve the operability of a fluid treatment system (e.g., fluid treatment systems 100A-100B of FIGS. 1A-1B). In some examples, varying the volumetric flow rates of the first and / or second fluids entering the rotary PX 40 allows an operator (e.g., system operator, plant operator) to control the amount of fluid mixing within the PX 40. Additionally, varying the rotational speed of the rotor 46 (e.g., via a motor) may also allow the operator to control mixing. Three characteristics of the rotary PX 40 that affect mixing include (1) the aspect ratio of the rotor channel 70, (2) the exposure time between the first and second fluids, and (3) the creation of a barrier (e.g., a fluid barrier, piston, interface) between the first and second fluids within the rotor channel 70. First, the rotor channel 70 (e.g., a duct) is generally long and narrow, stabilizing the flow within the rotary PX 40. Furthermore, the first and second fluids may move through the channel 70 in a plug flow manner, minimizing axial mixing. Second, in certain embodiments, the speed of the rotor 46 reduces contact between the first and second fluids. In some examples, the speed of the rotor 46 (e.g., a rotor speed of about 1200 revolutions per minute (RPM)) may reduce the contact time between the first and second fluids to less than about 0.15 seconds, 0.10 seconds, or 0.05 seconds. Third, rotor channel 70 (e.g., a small portion of rotor channel 70) is used to exchange pressure between the first and second fluids. In some embodiments, a certain amount of fluid remains within channel 70 as a barrier between the first and second fluids. Any of these mechanisms can limit mixing within rotary PX 40.Additionally, in some embodiments, the rotary PX40 may be designed to operate with all or part of an internal piston or other barrier that separates the first and second fluids while still allowing pressure transmission.

[0036] 2B-2E are exploded views of one embodiment of the rotary PX 40, illustrating the sequence of positions of a single rotor channel 70 within the rotor 46 as the channel 70 rotates through one complete cycle. Note that FIGS. 2B-2E are simplified diagrams of the rotary PX 40, illustrating one rotor channel 70, and depicting the channel 70 as having a circular cross-sectional shape. In other embodiments, the rotary PX 40 may include multiple channels 70 having the same or different cross-sectional shapes (e.g., circular, oval, square, rectangular, polygonal, etc.). Therefore, FIGS. 2B-2E are simplified for illustrative purposes, and other embodiments of the rotary PX 40 may have configurations different from those shown in FIGS. 2A-2E. As described in more detail below, the rotary PX 40 facilitates pressure exchange between a first fluid and a second fluid (e.g., a particle-free fluid and a slurry fluid, a high-pressure refrigerant and a low-pressure refrigerant, etc.) by allowing the first and second fluids to briefly contact each other within the rotor 46. In some embodiments, the PX facilitates pressure exchange between the first and second fluids by allowing them to contact on opposite sides of a barrier (e.g., a reciprocating barrier, piston, not shown). In some embodiments, this exchange occurs at a rate that limits mixing of the first and second fluids. The speed of the pressure wave passing through the rotor channel 70 (as soon as the channel is exposed to the aperture 76), the rate of diffusion of the fluids, and the rotational speed of the rotor 46 determine whether and to what extent mixing occurs.

[0037] FIG. 2B is an exploded perspective view of one embodiment of a rotary PX 40 (e.g., a rotary LPC) according to certain embodiments. In FIG. 2B, the channel opening 72 is in a first position. In the first position, the channel opening 72 is in fluid communication with an aperture 78 in the end cover 64 and thus with the manifold 52, while the opposite channel opening 74 is in fluid communication with an aperture 82 in the end cover 66 and extends therefrom to be in fluid communication with the manifold 54. The rotor 46 may rotate in a clockwise direction, as indicated by arrow 84. During operation, a low-pressure second fluid 86 (e.g., a low-pressure slurry fluid) passes through the end cover 66 and into the channel 70, where it contacts the first fluid 88 at a dynamic fluid interface 90. The second fluid 86 then forces the first fluid 88 out of the channel 70, through the end cover 64, and out of the rotary PX 40. However, due to the short contact time, mixing between the second fluid 86 (e.g., a slurry fluid) and the first fluid 88 (e.g., a particle-free fluid) is minimal. In some embodiments, the low-pressure second fluid 86 contacts a first side of a barrier (e.g., a piston, not shown) disposed within the channel 70, which is in contact with the first fluid 88 (e.g., on the opposite side of the barrier). The second fluid 86 drives the barrier, pushing the first fluid 88 out of the channel 70. In such embodiments, mixing between the second fluid 86 and the first fluid 88 is negligible.

[0038] 2C is an exploded perspective view of one embodiment of a rotating PX 40 (e.g., a rotating LPC) in accordance with certain embodiments. In FIG. 2C, channel 70 has been rotated clockwise through an arc of approximately 90 degrees. In this position, opening 74 (e.g., outlet) is not in fluid communication with apertures 80 and 82 in end cover 66, and opening 72 is not in fluid communication with apertures 76 and 78 in end cover 64. Thus, a low-pressure second fluid 86 is temporarily contained within channel 70.

[0039] 2D is an exploded perspective view of one embodiment of a rotary PX 40 (e.g., a rotary LPC) according to certain embodiments. In FIG. 2D, the channel 70 has been rotated through an arc of approximately 60 degrees from the position shown in FIG. 2B. The opening 74 is now in fluid communication with the aperture 80 in the end cover 66, and the opening 72 in the channel 70 is now in fluid communication with the aperture 76 in the end cover 64. In this position, a first fluid 88 at high pressure flows in and pressurizes a second fluid 86 at low pressure, forcing the second fluid 86 out of the rotor channel 70 through the aperture 80.

[0040] 2E is an exploded perspective view of one embodiment of a rotary PX 40 (e.g., a rotary LPC) in accordance with certain embodiments. In FIG. 2E, channel 70 has rotated through an arc of approximately 270 degrees from the position shown in FIG. 2B. In this position, opening 74 is no longer in fluid communication with apertures 80 and 82 in end cover 66, and opening 72 is no longer in fluid communication with apertures 76 and 78 in end cover 64. As a result, first fluid 88 is no longer pressurized and is temporarily retained within channel 70 until rotor 46 rotates another 90 degrees and the cycle begins again.

[0041] 3A-P are schematic diagrams of refrigeration systems 300A-P including a PX according to certain embodiments. Some of the features in one or more of Figures 3A-P may have similar properties, functions, and / or structures as those in one or more of Figures 1A-B and / or one or more of Figures 2A-E. One or more of the systems of Figures 3A-P, 4A-B, and / or 5A-B may be used to implement one or more of the methods of Figures 6A-C.

[0042] FIG. 3A is a schematic diagram of a refrigeration system 300A including a PX 310, according to certain embodiments. In some embodiments, the refrigeration system 300A is a thermal energy transport system and / or a fluid processing system. The PX 310 may be a rotary pressure exchanger. In some embodiments, the PX 310 is an isobaric or substantially isobaric pressure exchanger. The PX 310 may be configured to exchange pressure between a first fluid and a second fluid. In some embodiments, the PX 310 is coupled to a motor 360 (e.g., the rotation of a rotor of the PX 310 is controlled by the motor 360). In some embodiments, the motor 360 controls the rotational speed of the PX 310. The mass flow rate (e.g., of the first fluid and / or the second fluid) through the PX 310 may be related to the rotational speed of the PX 310. In some embodiments, the pressure of a fluid (e.g., the first fluid) in the condenser 329 may be related to the rotational speed of the PX 310. In some embodiments, a controller (eg, controller 380 ) receives sensor data from one or more sensors of motor 360 .

[0043] In some embodiments, the PX 310 is adapted to receive a first fluid at high pressure (e.g., HPin fluid 130 in FIGS. 1A-B) via a high-pressure inlet. In some embodiments, the PX 310 is adapted to receive a second fluid at low pressure (e.g., LPin fluid 120 in FIGS. 1A-B) via a low-pressure inlet. Although reference is made to "high pressure" and "low pressure," "high pressure" and "low pressure" may be relative to each other and may not involve specific pressure values ​​(e.g., the pressure of the HPin fluid 130 is higher than the pressure of the LPin fluid 120). The PX 310 may exchange pressure between the first and second fluids. The PX 310 may provide a first fluid via a low-pressure outlet (e.g., LPout fluid 140) and a second fluid via a high-pressure outlet (e.g., HPout fluid 150). In some embodiments, the first fluid provided via the low-pressure outlet is at low pressure, and the second fluid provided via the high-pressure outlet is at high pressure.

[0044] In some embodiments, fluid treatment system 300A includes a condenser 329 (e.g., a gas cooler), an evaporator 318, and a compressor 322. In some embodiments, fluid treatment system 300A is a refrigeration system. In some embodiments, condenser 329 is a heat exchanger that provides heat from a refrigerant (e.g., a first fluid) to the environment.

[0045] In some embodiments, the condenser 329 is a heat exchanger that condenses (e.g., while cooling) the fluid flowing through the condenser 329. The phase of the refrigerant may change (e.g., condense) from a gas phase to a liquid phase within the condenser 329.

[0046] In some embodiments, the condenser 329 is a heat exchanger that does not condense the fluid flowing through it (e.g., it cools the fluid without condensing it). In some embodiments, the pressure of the fluid in the condenser 329 exceeds the critical pressure of the fluid. In some embodiments, the condenser 329 is a gas cooler and does not condense the fluid (e.g., in a gaseous state). The condenser 329 can provide heat from the fluid (e.g., gas) to a corresponding environment. In some embodiments, the temperature of the fluid may be lowered in the condenser 329, but the fluid does not condense (e.g., the fluid does not change from a gas phase to a liquid phase). In some embodiments, above the critical pressure of the fluid (e.g., of a refrigerant), the thermodynamic distinction between the liquid and gas phases of the fluid in the condenser 329 disappears, and only a single state of fluid exists, referred to as the supercritical state.

[0047] In some examples, the evaporator 318 can provide the refrigerating fluid with heat absorbed by the system 300A from a heat source (e.g., a low-temperature reservoir). The heat may be rejected to a heat sink (e.g., a high-temperature reservoir) via the condenser 329. In some embodiments, the refrigerating fluid facilitates heat transfer from an environment associated with the evaporator to an environment associated with the condenser. The compressor 322 of the fluid processing system 300A can increase the corresponding pressure of the refrigerating fluid along a flow path between the evaporator 318 and the condenser 329. In some embodiments, the refrigerating fluid is CO2 or other refrigerating fluid. The refrigerating fluid can flow substantially in a cycle (e.g., from the condenser 329 to the PX 310, to the evaporator 318, to the compressor 322, to the condenser 329, etc.).

[0048] In some embodiments, fluid treatment system 300A includes a low-pressure booster (e.g., LP booster 314) and / or a high-pressure booster (e.g., HP booster 324). Both LP booster 314 and HP booster 324 may be configured to increase (e.g., “boost”) the pressure of a second fluid. For example, LP booster 314 may increase the pressure of the second fluid output from evaporator 318 (e.g., received from PX 310). HP booster 324 may increase the pressure of the second fluid output by PX 310. The second fluid may be provided (e.g., by HP booster 324), combined with fluid output from compressor 322 (e.g., upstream of the inlet of condenser 329), and provided to condenser 329. LP booster 314 may increase the pressure below a threshold amount (e.g., LP booster 314 may operate across a pressure differential below a threshold amount). In some examples, the LP booster 314 can increase the pressure of the second fluid by approximately 10 to 60 psi (approximately 68.95 to 413.69 kPa). The second fluid may experience a pressure loss (e.g., due to fluid friction losses in the piping) as the second fluid flows from the LP booster 314 to the second inlet of the PX 310. The HP booster 324 can increase the pressure of the second fluid between the second outlet of the PX 310 and the inlet of the condenser 329. The HP booster 324 can increase the pressure by less than a threshold amount (e.g., the HP booster 324 can operate across a pressure difference less than a threshold amount). In some examples, the high-pressure booster 324 can increase the pressure of the second fluid by approximately 10 to 60 psi (approximately 68.95 to 413.69 kPa). HP booster 324 can increase the pressure of the second fluid to a pressure that substantially matches the pressure of the fluid output from compressor 322 (e.g., the pressure of condenser 329). In contrast to LP booster 314 and HP booster 324, compressor 322 increases the pressure of the fluid above a threshold amount (e.g., compressor 322 can operate across a pressure differential that exceeds a threshold amount). In some examples, compressor 322 can increase the pressure of the fluid above approximately 200 psi (approximately 1.38 MPa).In some embodiments, the controller 380 controls the flow rate of the fluid through the PX 310 by controlling the flow rate of the LP booster 314. In some examples, the controller 380 can set the flow rate of the LP booster 314 to control the flow rate of the first fluid through the PX 310.

[0049] In some embodiments, the evaporator 318 is a heat exchanger for exchanging (e.g., providing) corresponding heat energy from the environment (e.g., an environmental medium) to the refrigerating fluid. In some examples, the evaporator 318 can receive heat (e.g., thermal energy) from ambient air and provide the heat to the refrigerating fluid. In some embodiments, the environment is a refrigerated space, such as the interior of a refrigeration unit or freezer, an interior space (e.g., of a building or vehicle), or any other space that is kept at a low temperature. In some examples, the environment can be the interior of a freezer or refrigerated section of a supermarket or warehouse.

[0050] In some embodiments, the condenser 329 is a heat exchanger that transfers corresponding thermal energy (e.g., heat) between the refrigerating fluid and the environment. In some embodiments, the condenser 329 is adapted to provide thermal energy from the refrigerating fluid to another environment (e.g., an environment different from the environment associated with the evaporator 318). In some examples, the condenser 329 can reject heat (e.g., thermal energy) to air in an external (e.g., outside) environment. In some embodiments, the condenser 329 exchanges thermal energy (e.g., rejects heat) to an external space. In some examples, the condenser 329 can be located outside a supermarket or warehouse building (e.g., on the roof of the building) and reject heat to the external environment. In other examples, the condenser 329 can be located underground and can facilitate the transfer of thermal energy between the refrigerating fluid and the ground. In some embodiments, the condenser 329 rejects heat to an internal space, while the evaporator 318 absorbs heat from the external space (e.g., as in a heat pump configuration that provides heating). The thermal energy rejected from the condenser 329 may be used to heat an enclosed (e.g., substantially enclosed) space. In another example, the evaporator 318 may be located underground to facilitate the transfer of thermal energy from the earth to the refrigerated fluid.

[0051] Fluid treatment system 300A may include a controller 380 (e.g., controller 180 of FIGS. 1A-D). Controller 380 may control a booster and / or a compressor of system 300A. Controller 380 may receive sensor data from one or more sensors of system 300A. The sensors may include pressure sensors, flow sensors, and / or temperature sensors. In some embodiments, controller 380 controls a motor coupled to PX 310 (e.g., motor 360). In some embodiments, controller 380 receives motor data from one or more motor sensors associated with motor 360. The motor data received from the motor sensors may include a current motor speed (e.g., revolutions per minute), total motor run time, motor run time between maintenance operations, and / or total motor revolutions. The motor data may indicate a performance status of the motor.

[0052] In some embodiments, controller 380 receives sensor data indicative of the temperature of the refrigeration space (e.g., a cold reservoir near evaporator 318) and / or the temperature of the heating space (e.g., a hot reservoir near condenser 329). Controller 380 may control LP booster 314, HP booster 324, and / or compressor 322 based on sensor data received from one or more sensors (e.g., one or more fluid flow sensors, temperature sensors, pressure sensors) of fluid treatment system 300A. In some embodiments, one or more sensors (e.g., a pressure sensor, a flow sensor, a temperature sensor, etc.) are located near the inlets and / or outlets of various components of fluid treatment system 300A. In some embodiments, one or more sensors are located internal to components of fluid treatment system 300A. In some examples, a pressure sensor may be located near the inlet of compressor 322 and an additional pressure sensor may be located near the outlet of compressor 322. In some examples, a temperature sensor may be located near the inlet of the evaporator 318 and another temperature sensor may be located near the outlet of the evaporator 318. In some examples, a temperature sensor may be located inside the condenser 329. In some examples, flow sensors may be located at each of the inlet and outlet of the PX 310 to measure the flow rates of the first and second fluids into and out of the PX 310.

[0053] References are made herein to a "first fluid" and a "second fluid." In some embodiments, the first fluid and the second fluid are the same type of fluid (e.g., a refrigerating fluid flowing within a fluid processing system). A "first fluid" may refer to a fluid flowing through PX310 from a high-pressure inlet of PX310 to a low-pressure outlet of PX310, and / or to or from a high-pressure inlet and / or low-pressure outlet of PX310. A "second fluid" may refer to a fluid flowing through PX310 from a low-pressure inlet of PX310 to a high-pressure outlet of PX310, and / or to or from a low-pressure inlet and / or high-pressure outlet of PX310. In some embodiments, the first fluid may be a refrigerant fluid in a supercritical state (e.g., supercritical CO2). In some embodiments, the first fluid may be a refrigerant fluid in a liquid state (e.g., liquid CO2). In some embodiments, the second fluid may be a refrigerant fluid in a gaseous state (e.g., CO2 vapor). In some embodiments, the second fluid may be a two-phase refrigerant fluid (e.g., a gas-liquid mixture of CO2). In some embodiments, the second fluid may be a liquid refrigerant fluid (e.g., liquid CO2).

[0054] In some embodiments, system 300A is a heat pump system capable of heating an environment (e.g., an indoor space). In such a heat pump system, condenser 329 is located indoors and evaporator 318 is located outdoors. In a heat pump system, the evaporator absorbs heat from the surroundings, evaporating a two-phase refrigerant fluid flowing through the evaporator and then sending it to the inlet of the compressor. In some embodiments, to switch from a refrigeration system or an air-cooled system to a heat pump system, a reversing valve may be used to redirect the fluid flow exiting compressor 322 either to the inlet of the outdoor unit or to the inlet of the indoor unit. In some embodiments, one or more valves and piping may be used to switch the fluid flow from the indoor unit to the outdoor unit while directing it in the same direction through all components (e.g., one or more of PX 310, LP booster 314, HP booster 324, compressor 322, etc.).

[0055] The direction of thermal energy transfer (e.g., heat transfer) of system 300A can be reversible in some embodiments. For example, in a refrigeration / air conditioning / air-cooling implementation of system 300A, condenser 329, located outdoors, rejects heat (e.g., provides corresponding thermal energy from a refrigerated fluid to a corresponding environment), and evaporator 318 absorbs heat (e.g., provides corresponding thermal energy from a corresponding environment to a refrigerated fluid). In a heat pump implementation of system 300A, condenser 329, located indoors, rejects heat to its indoor environment, and evaporator 318 absorbs heat from its outdoor environment. In some embodiments, system 300A includes one or more valves (e.g., reversing valves, diverter valves, etc.) to reverse the function of system 300A (e.g., reverse the flow of thermal energy facilitated by system 300A). In some embodiments, one or more flows of refrigeration fluid (e.g., flow to / from PX 310, flow to / from HP booster 324, flow to / from LP booster 314, flow to / from compressor 322, flow to / from condenser 329, and / or flow to / from evaporator 318) may be reversed and / or diverted. In some examples, one or more reversing or diverting valves included in system 300A may, in some embodiments, direct fluid from compressor 322 to the outdoor unit. Similar valves may direct fluid from compressor 322 to the indoor unit.

[0056] The reversibility of system 300A can be controlled (e.g., via controller 380, via a programmable thermostat located in the indoor space, via user input, etc.). In some examples, controller 380 may determine whether to use system 300A to heat or cool the indoor space (e.g., based on temperature data, based on user input, based on a schedule). In some embodiments, controller 380 can actuate one or more valves (e.g., reversing valves, diverter valves, etc.) to reverse the flow of fluid through the system. In embodiments in which the function of system 300A is reversible (e.g., reversible between heating and cooling the indoor space), evaporator 318 can be an internal heat exchanger (e.g., located within the interior space and in an air handler system that provides airflow to the interior space), and condenser 329 can be an external heat exchanger (e.g., located outside the interior space). In other embodiments, evaporator 318 can be an external heat exchanger, and condenser 329 can be an indoor heat exchanger.

[0057] In some embodiments, the systems described herein (e.g., one or more of the systems of Figures 1A-7) can be used to heat an interior space, to cool an interior space, and / or to selectively (e.g., reversibly) heat and cool a space.

[0058] 3B is a schematic diagram of a refrigeration system 300B including a pressure exchanger (PX), according to certain embodiments. In some embodiments, refrigeration system 300B is a thermal energy transfer system and / or a fluid treatment system. In some embodiments, features having similar reference numbers to those in other figures include similar properties, structures, and / or functions as those described in other figures. In some examples, features of fluid treatment system 300B have similar properties, structures, and / or functions as fluid treatment system 300A of FIG. 3A.

[0059] Fluid treatment system 300B may include a flash tank 313 (e.g., a receiver). In some embodiments, flash tank 313 is a receiver configured to receive a flow of fluid (e.g., a first fluid) output from the low-pressure outlet of PX 310. Flash tank 313 may form a chamber that collects the first fluid from the first outlet of PX 310. Flash tank 313 may receive the first fluid in a two-phase state (e.g., liquid and gas phases). In some embodiments, flash tank 313 is a tank constructed of welded sheet metal. Flash tank 313 may be made of steel (e.g., steel sheet metal, steel plate, etc.). The first fluid (at low pressure) may separate into gas and liquid within flash tank 313. The liquid of the first fluid may settle to the bottom of flash tank 313, while the gas of the first fluid may rise to the top of flash tank 313. Liquid can flow from flash tank 313 toward evaporator 318 (e.g., via expansion valve 316). The chamber of flash tank 313 can be maintained at a set pressure. The pressure may be set by a user (e.g., an operator, technician, engineer, etc.) and / or a controller (e.g., controller 380). In some embodiments, the pressure of flash tank 313 is controlled by one or more valves (e.g., flash gas valve 320, a pressure regulator valve, a safety valve, etc.). In some embodiments, flash tank 313 includes at least one pressure sensor (e.g., a pressure transducer).

[0060] Fluid treatment system 300B may include an expansion valve 316. In some embodiments, expansion valve 316 is disposed along the flow path between flash tank 313 and evaporator 318. Expansion valve 316 may be an adjustable valve (e.g., an electronic expansion valve, a thermostatic expansion valve, a ball valve, a gate valve, a poppet valve, etc.). Expansion valve 316 may be controllable by a user (e.g., a technician, an operator, an engineer, etc.) or by controller 380. In some embodiments, expansion valve 316 is actuated by controller 380 based on sensor data (e.g., pressure sensor data, flow sensor data, temperature sensor data, etc.). In some embodiments, expansion valve 316 is a thermal expansion valve. Expansion valve 316 may be actuated (e.g., opened or closed) based on temperature data associated with evaporator 318 (e.g., temperature data of the refrigerating fluid exiting the evaporator). In some examples, a sensing bulb (e.g., a temperature sensor, a temperature-dependent pressure sensor, etc.) of the expansion valve 316 can increase or decrease pressure on a diaphragm of the expansion valve 316, opening or closing a poppet valve coupled to the diaphragm, thereby causing more or less fluid flow to the evaporator 318 and thereby causing more or less expansion of the fluid. The expansion valve sensing bulb can be located near the downstream end of the evaporator 318 (e.g., near the fluid outlet of the evaporator 318) and can be fluidly connected to the diaphragm via a sensing capillary (e.g., a conduit between the sensing bulb and the expansion valve 316). In some embodiments, the expansion valve 316 is controlled and operated entirely based on electronic commands (e.g., from the controller 380).

[0061] Fluid treatment system 300B may include a flash gas valve 320 to regulate the flow of gas on a flash gas bypass flow path. In some embodiments, flash gas valve 320 is a bypass valve that regulates the flow of gas from a gas outlet of flash tank 313 to combine with the output of evaporator 318. In some embodiments, the flow of gas from flash tank 313 flows along a flash gas bypass flow path and bypasses evaporator 318. In some embodiments, the flash gas flow path is between flash tank 313 and a location downstream of the outlet of evaporator 318. Gas flowing along the flash gas bypass flow path may be combined with the output of evaporator 318. Flash gas valve 320 may expand (e.g., reduce pressure) gas collected in flash tank 313 as the gas flows toward compressor 322. Flash gas valve 320 may be an adjustable valve in some embodiments. In some embodiments, flash gas valve 320 is operated by controller 380 based on sensor data.

[0062] In some embodiments, as illustrated in FIG. 3B , low-pressure booster 314 receives a fluid flow from flash tank 313. In some embodiments, LP booster 314 receives a gas flow from flash tank 313. In some examples, LP booster 314 receives a portion of the gas flowing along the flash gas bypass flowpath between flash tank 313 and flash gas valve 320. In some embodiments, low-pressure booster 314 receives a fluid and increases the pressure of the fluid to form a second fluid (e.g., at a second pressure). The fluid is provided at the increased pressure (e.g., the second pressure) to a second inlet of PX 310 as the second fluid. In some embodiments, LP booster 314 is a compressor or pump operating across a low pressure differential to “boost” the pressure of the gas received from flash tank 313. In some embodiments, the HP booster 324 is a compressor or pump that operates across a low pressure differential to "boost" the pressure of a fluid (e.g., a second fluid) received from the second outlet of the PX. In some embodiments, a compressor is configured to increase the pressure of a fluid that is substantially composed of a gas, while a pump is configured to increase the pressure of a fluid that is substantially composed of a liquid.

[0063] Figure 3C is a schematic diagram of a refrigeration system 300C including a pressure exchanger (PX) according to certain embodiments. In some embodiments, refrigeration system 300C is a thermal energy transport system and / or a fluid treatment system. In some embodiments, features having similar reference numbers to those in other figures include similar properties, structures, and / or functions as those described in other figures. In some examples, features of fluid treatment system 300C have similar properties, structures, and / or functions as one or more of fluid treatment systems 300A-B of Figures 3A-3B.

[0064] Fluid processing system 300C may include a parallel compressor 350. In some embodiments, parallel compressor 350 receives gas from flash tank 313. Parallel compressor 350 may receive gas from flash tank 313. Parallel compressor 350 may operate in parallel with PX 310. Parallel compressor 350 can increase the pressure of the gas received from flash tank 313 to a pressure substantially similar to the pressure of the fluid output by compressor 322. Parallel compressor 350 can compress an excess amount of flash gas from flash tank 313 that exceeds the capacity of PX 310, thereby avoiding a drop in the pressure of the flash gas through flash gas valve 320 shown in FIG. 3B. Including parallel compressor 350 in conjunction with PX 310 increases the energy efficiency of the system. Parallel compressor 350 can provide compressed gas that is combined with the output of compressor 322. Parallel compressor 350 may be a rotary or reciprocating compressor. In some embodiments, the work performed by parallel compressor 350 reduces the work performed by compressor 322, thereby increasing the efficiency of the system because parallel compressor 350 operates across a lower pressure differential than that of compressor 322.

[0065] Figure 3D is a schematic diagram of a refrigeration system 300D including a pressure exchanger (PX) according to certain embodiments. In some embodiments, refrigeration system 300D is a thermal energy transport system and / or a fluid treatment system. In some embodiments, features having similar reference numbers to those in other figures include similar properties, structures, and / or functions as those described in the other figures. In some examples, features of fluid treatment system 300D have similar properties, structures, and / or functions as one or more of fluid treatment systems 300A-C of Figures 3A-3C.

[0066] LP booster 314 of fluid treatment system 300D can receive fluid via one or more of LP inlet line 353 or LP inlet line 354. LP inlet line 353 can deliver fluid to LP booster 314 from a flash gas bypass flow path (e.g., between flash tank 313 and flash gas valve 320). LP inlet line 354 can deliver fluid output by the evaporator and / or flash gas bypass (e.g., downstream of the outlet of evaporator 318) to LP booster 314. In some embodiments, the fluid received via LP inlet line 354 (e.g., by LP booster 314) is at a lower pressure than the gas received via LP inlet line 353 (e.g., because the gas is received downstream of flash gas valve 320, which reduces the pressure of the flash gas). A three-way selector valve (not shown) can be used to fluidly connect either inlet line 354 or inlet line 353 to the inlet of low-pressure booster 314. Processing logic (e.g., control algorithm, processing unit, controller 380) can determine which of the suction lines should be fluidly connected to the inlet of LP booster 314 based on sensor data (e.g., pressure sensor data, temperature sensor data, flow sensor data, etc.). For example, in response to the gas in flash tank 313 meeting a threshold amount (e.g., little gas in flash tank 313) (e.g., when the ambient temperature is cold, expansion through PX 310 may produce much more liquid than gas), LP booster 314 receives more gas via suction line 354. Controller 380 actuates the three-way selector valve to fluidly connect the inlet of LP booster 314 to LP suction line 353 (e.g., provide flow between LP booster 314 and LP suction line 353). This allows PX 310 to operate closer to its flow capacity, potentially saving more energy.

[0067] Figure 3E is a schematic diagram of a refrigeration system 300E including a pressure exchanger (PX) according to certain embodiments. In some embodiments, the refrigeration system 300E is a thermal energy transport system and / or a fluid treatment system. In some embodiments, features having similar reference numbers to those in other figures include similar properties, structures, and / or functions as those described in the other figures. In some examples, features of the fluid treatment system 300E have similar properties, structures, and / or functions as one or more of the fluid treatment systems 300A-D of Figures 3A-3D.

[0068] The fluid treatment system 300E may include a flash gas heat exchanger 361. The flash gas heat exchanger 361 may receive a first fluid from the condenser 329 and provide the first fluid to the PX 310. The flash gas heat exchanger 361 may receive flash gas from the flash gas valve 320 and mix the flash with the fluid output by the evaporator 318. The flash gas heat exchanger 361 may transfer thermal energy (e.g., heat) between the first fluid and the flash gas. The flash gas heat exchanger 361 may provide corresponding thermal energy (e.g., heat) from the first fluid output from the condenser 329 (e.g., upstream of the high-pressure inlet of the PX 310) to the flash gas output from the flash gas valve 320 (e.g., gas flowing along the flash gas flow path from the flash tank 313). The thermal energy exchange facilitated by the flash gas heat exchanger 361 may evaporate liquid flowing through the flash gas bypass flow path. Additionally, in some embodiments, flash gas heat exchanger 361 further cools the first fluid exiting condenser 329 upstream of the high-pressure inlet of PX 310. Further cooling the first fluid can increase the liquid content of the first fluid at the low-pressure outlet of PX 310, reducing the total mass flow per unit of heat absorbed (e.g., by the system) and increasing the system's coefficient of performance (COP) (e.g., the ratio of useful heating or cooling provided to the work (energy) used). The system's COP can be an indicator of the system's efficiency (e.g., an increase in the system's COP indicates increased system efficiency).

[0069] Figure 3F is a schematic diagram of a refrigeration system 300F including a pressure exchanger (PX) according to certain embodiments. In some embodiments, refrigeration system 300F is a thermal energy transport system and / or a fluid treatment system. In some embodiments, features having similar reference numbers to those in other figures include similar properties, structures, and / or functions as those described in the other figures. In some examples, features of fluid treatment system 300F have similar properties, structures, and / or functions as one or more of fluid treatment systems 300A-E of Figures 3A-3E.

[0070] Fluid treatment system 300F, like fluid treatment system 300E, may include flash gas heat exchanger 361. However, in fluid treatment system 300F, flash gas heat exchanger 361 may exchange corresponding thermal energy (e.g., upstream of the low-pressure inlet of PX 310) between the gas flowing along the flash gas bypass flow path output by flash gas valve 320 and the second fluid output from LP booster 314. The thermal energy exchange facilitated by flash gas heat exchanger 361 may cause evaporation of liquid flowing along the flash gas bypass flow path. Additionally, in some embodiments, flash gas heat exchanger 361 may cool the second fluid output from LP booster 314, increasing the density of the second fluid and resulting in a higher mass flow intake of PX 310 and a corresponding reduction in mass flow of main compressor 322. This may produce a higher COP of the system.

[0071] Figure 3G is a schematic diagram of a refrigeration system 300G including a pressure exchanger (PX) according to certain embodiments. In some embodiments, refrigeration system 300G is a thermal energy transport system and / or a fluid treatment system. In some embodiments, features having similar reference numbers to those in other figures include similar properties, structures, and / or functions as those described in the other figures. In some examples, features of fluid treatment system 300G have similar properties, structures, and / or functions as one or more of fluid treatment systems 300A-F of Figures 3A-3F.

[0072] The evaporator 318 of the fluid treatment system 300G can operate in a flooded state. In some embodiments, in some instances, both liquid and gas can flow through the evaporator 318. Operating the evaporator 318 in a flooded state can increase the pressure on the suction side of the compressor 322 (e.g., upstream of the compressor 322), thereby reducing the pressure differential overcome by the compressor 322 and, therefore, reducing the energy required by the compressor 322 and improving the efficiency of the system. In some embodiments, the fluid exiting the evaporator 318 (e.g., through the outlet of the evaporator 318) can be in a two-phase state (e.g., liquid and gas). Liquid can accumulate in the accumulator 338. In some embodiments, the accumulator 338 is a receiver that receives fluid from the evaporator 318 and the flash gas bypass. In some embodiments, the accumulator 338 forms a chamber similar to the flash tank 313. The chamber of accumulator 338 may be maintained at a substantially constant (e.g., quasi-constant) pressure. In some embodiments, accumulator 338 includes one or more pressure sensors. Liquid collected in accumulator 338 may be pumped to a low-pressure inlet of PX 310 by LP booster 314 (e.g., in some embodiments, a pump configured to pump liquid). Gas from accumulator 338 may flow to compressor 322.

[0073] In some embodiments, the second fluid provided by the LP booster 314 to the low-pressure inlet of the PX 310 is in a liquid state. The second fluid may also be in a liquid state at the high-pressure outlet of the PX 310. In some embodiments, the second fluid may be in a subcooled liquid state at the high-pressure outlet of the PX 310. The HP booster 324 may pump the second fluid from the high-pressure outlet of the PX 310 to the high-pressure inlet of the PX 310. The output from the condenser 329 may be combined with the fluid pumped by the HP booster 324 (e.g., output by the HP booster 324) and received by the PX 310 via the high-pressure inlet of the PX 310.

[0074] Figure 3H is a schematic diagram of a refrigeration system 300H including a pressure exchanger (PX) according to certain embodiments. In some embodiments, refrigeration system 300H is a thermal energy transport system and / or a fluid treatment system. In some embodiments, features having similar reference numbers to those in other figures include similar properties, structures, and / or functions as those described in the other figures. In some examples, features of fluid treatment system 300H have similar properties, structures, and / or functions as one or more of fluid treatment systems 300A-G of Figures 3A-3G.

[0075] Fluid processing system 300H may include a secondary evaporator 319 and a secondary expansion valve 358. In some embodiments, secondary evaporator 319 receives a portion of the fluid flow from flash tank 313 via secondary expansion valve 358. Secondary expansion valve 358 may control the flow of fluid to secondary evaporator 319. In some embodiments, controller 380 may control secondary expansion valve 358. In some embodiments, controller 380 activates (e.g., opens or closes) secondary expansion valve 358 based on sensor data received by controller 380. The sensor data may include pressure sensor data, flow sensor data, and / or temperature sensor data, specifically temperature data associated with secondary evaporator 319. In some embodiments, secondary expansion valve 358 has substantially similar characteristics and / or functions substantially similarly to expansion valve 316 described herein. In some embodiments, fluid flowing through secondary expansion valve 358 expands as the fluid flows through secondary expansion valve 358.

[0076] In some embodiments, the secondary evaporator 319 is a heat exchanger that provides corresponding thermal energy (e.g., heat) from the environment to the fluid flowing through the secondary evaporator 319. In some embodiments, the secondary evaporator 319 provides thermal energy from an environment that is different from the environment to which the evaporator 318 provides thermal energy. In some embodiments, the environment to which the secondary evaporator 319 provides thermal energy is at a different temperature than the environment to which the evaporator 318 provides thermal energy. In some examples, the evaporator 318 can exchange thermal energy with a refrigeration section of a supermarket, while the secondary evaporator 319 can exchange thermal energy with a freezer section of the supermarket, which is at a lower temperature than the refrigeration section. In some embodiments, the secondary evaporator 319 is a low temperature (LT) evaporator (e.g., a freezer) that operates at a lower temperature than the evaporator 318 (e.g., an MT evaporator, a refrigeration unit). In some embodiments, the fluid output from the secondary evaporator 319 is compressed by the secondary compressor 356 and then combined with the fluid output from the evaporator 318 and / or the fluid output from the flash gas valve 320. In some embodiments, any of the systems 300A-300M may include the secondary evaporator 319 and the secondary compressor 356 as described herein.

[0077] Figure 3I is a schematic diagram of a refrigeration system 300I including a pressure exchanger (PX) according to certain embodiments. In some embodiments, refrigeration system 300I is a thermal energy transport system and / or a fluid treatment system. In some embodiments, features having similar reference numbers to those in other figures include similar properties, structures, and / or functions as those described in the other figures. In some examples, features of fluid treatment system 300I have similar properties, structures, and / or functions as one or more of fluid treatment systems 300A-H of Figures 3A-3H.

[0078] Fluid treatment system 300I may include a liquid pump 340. In some embodiments, liquid pump 340 may pump liquid from accumulator 338 to the inlet of evaporator 318. The liquid pumped by liquid pump 340 may be combined with fluid output from expansion valve 316 (e.g., upstream of the inlet of evaporator 318). Liquid pump 340 may be controlled by controller 380. In some embodiments, the fluid exiting condenser 329 is in a liquid state. Thus, in some embodiments, HP booster 324 pumps liquid from the outlet of condenser 329 to the high-pressure inlet of PX 310. HP booster 324 may increase the pressure of the liquid output from condenser 329 to the high-pressure inlet of PX 310.

[0079] Figure 3J is a schematic diagram of a refrigeration system 300J including a pressure exchanger according to certain embodiments. In some embodiments, refrigeration system 300J is a thermal energy transport system and / or a fluid treatment system. In some embodiments, features having similar reference numbers to those in other figures include similar properties, structures, and / or functions as those described in the other figures. In some examples, features of fluid treatment system 300J have similar properties, structures, and / or functions as one or more of fluid treatment systems 300A-I of Figures 3A-3I.

[0080] Fluid processing system 300J may include a parallel valve 348. Parallel valve 348 may be an expansion valve or a flow control valve. In some embodiments, parallel valve 348, in parallel with PX 310, selectively regulates the flow rate of fluid from the outlet of condenser 329 to flash tank 313. In some embodiments, parallel valve 348 controls the pressure of condenser 329 (e.g., a gas cooler) by selectively opening and closing its openings (e.g., of parallel valve 348). In some embodiments, parallel valve 348 may be actuated to selectively adjust the flow rate of fluid or to selectively adjust the pressure of fluid in condenser 329. Parallel valve 348 may selectively provide a portion of the fluid output by condenser 329 to expansion tank 313. In some examples, parallel valve 348 can be actuated to open further to allow more fluid to flow from condenser 329 to flash tank 313, or parallel valve 348 can be actuated to close further to allow less fluid to flow from condenser 329 to flash tank 313. As fluid flows through parallel valve 348, it may expand, causing a decrease in the pressure and / or temperature of the fluid. In some embodiments, controller 380 may actuate parallel valve 348 (e.g., open or close) based on sensor data received from one or more sensors in fluid treatment system 300I.

[0081] Figure 3K is a schematic diagram of a refrigeration system 300K including a pressure exchanger (PX) according to certain embodiments. In some embodiments, refrigeration system 300K is a thermal energy transport system and / or a fluid treatment system. In some embodiments, features having similar reference numbers to those in other figures include similar properties, structures, and / or functions as those described in other figures. In some embodiments, features of fluid treatment system 300K have similar properties, structures, and / or functions as fluid treatment systems 300A-J of Figures 3A-3J.

[0082] Fluid processing system 300K may include a PX HP valve 362 and a PX on / off valve 364. The PX HP valve 362 may control the flow rate of the second fluid output from the high-pressure outlet of PX 310. In some embodiments, the second fluid expands as the second fluid flows through the PX HP valve 362. The second fluid output from the PX HP valve 362 may flow into flash tank 313. The second fluid may expand to the pressure of flash tank 313 (e.g., the internal pressure of flash tank 313) as the second fluid flows through PX HP valve 362. Expanding the second fluid through PX HP valve 362 may improve the quality of the fluid in flash tank 313 (e.g., the ratio of gas to liquid). The PX on / off valve 364 may control the flow rate of the first fluid (e.g., the high-pressure fluid) to the high-pressure inlet of PX 310. In some embodiments, PH HP valve 362 and / or PX on / off valve 364 are controlled by controller 380. Controller 380 may operate (e.g., open or close) PH HP valve 362 and / or PX on / off valve 364 based on sensor data received from one or more sensors in fluid treatment system 300J.

[0083] Figure 3L is a schematic diagram of a refrigeration system 300L including a pressure exchanger (PX) according to certain embodiments. In some embodiments, refrigeration system 300L is a thermal energy transport system and / or a fluid treatment system. In some embodiments, features having similar reference numbers to those in other figures include similar properties, structures, and / or functions as those described in other figures. In some examples, features of fluid treatment system 300L have similar properties, structures, and / or functions as fluid treatment systems 300A-K of Figures 3A-K.

[0084] Fluid processing system 300L may include a flash gas heat exchanger 361. In some embodiments, a portion of the gas flowing along the flash gas bypass flow path output from flash gas valve 320 is sent to flash gas heat exchanger 361. Additionally, in some embodiments, the second fluid output from the high-pressure outlet of PX 310 is sent to flash gas heat exchanger 361. Flash gas heat exchanger 361 can provide corresponding thermal energy (e.g., heat) from the second fluid to a portion of the flash gas, thereby reducing the temperature of the second fluid output from the high-pressure outlet of PX 310. The second fluid may be output from flash gas heat exchanger 361 (e.g., at a lower temperature) and sent to flash tank 313. In some embodiments, the second fluid expands as it flows through PX HP valve 362 toward flash tank 313, similar to the manner described in connection with fluid processing system 300J of FIG. 3K.

[0085] Figure 3M is a schematic diagram of a refrigeration system 300M including a pressure exchanger (PX) according to certain embodiments. In some embodiments, refrigeration system 300M is a thermal energy transport system and / or a fluid treatment system. In some embodiments, features having similar reference numbers to those in other figures include similar properties, structures, and / or functions as those described in other figures. In some examples, features of fluid treatment system 300M have similar properties, structures, and / or functions as fluid treatment systems 300A-L of Figures 3A-3L.

[0086] Fluid treatment system 300M may include auxiliary flash tank 352. Auxiliary flash tank 352 may be a receiver for receiving the second fluid output from flash gas heat exchanger 361. In some embodiments, auxiliary flash tank 352 is constructed of welded sheet metal, similar to the structure of flash tank 313. In some embodiments, auxiliary flash tank 352 is made of steel. Auxiliary flash tank 352 may form a chamber for receiving a fluid (e.g., the second fluid). The interior of auxiliary flash tank 352 (e.g., the chamber of auxiliary flash tank 352) may be maintained at a predetermined constant (e.g., substantially constant) pressure. The pressure of auxiliary flash tank 352 may be higher than the pressure of flash tank 313. In some examples, the pressure of auxiliary flash tank 352 may be maintained at least about 30 psi (about 206.84 kPa) higher than the pressure of flash tank 313. In some embodiments, auxiliary flash tank 352 includes at least one pressure sensor. Fluid flowing from auxiliary flash tank 352 toward junction valve 355 may expand through valve 353. In some embodiments, valve 353 regulates the pressure in auxiliary flash tank 352. Valve 353 may be controllable (e.g., via controller 380).

[0087] In some embodiments, the auxiliary flash tank 352 can receive the second fluid output from the flash gas heat exchanger 361 (e.g., downstream of the PX HP valve 362). The liquid and vapor of the second fluid can be separated in the auxiliary flash tank 352. The liquid can collect at the bottom of the auxiliary flash tank 352 and be directed to the expansion valve 316 via the junction valve 355. At the junction valve 355, the liquid output from the auxiliary flash tank 352 can be combined with the liquid output from the flash tank 313. In some embodiments, the junction valve 355 combines the liquid flows from the auxiliary flash tank 352 and the flash tank 313 and directs the combined liquid flow to the expansion valve 316. In some embodiments, the junction valve 355 is controlled (e.g., actuated) by the controller 380 (e.g., based on sensor data). The vapor collected in the auxiliary flash tank 352 can be directed to the low-pressure inlet of the PX 310. In some embodiments, because the pressure maintained in auxiliary flash tank 352 is higher than the pressure maintained in flash tank 313, an LP booster is not required to boost the pressure of the second fluid upstream of the low-pressure inlet of PX 310, thus reducing the energy consumption and hardware costs of the system.

[0088] Figures 3M.1-3M.6 are schematic diagrams of refrigeration systems 300M.1-300M.6 including a pressure exchanger (PX) according to certain embodiments. In some embodiments, refrigeration systems 300M.1-300M.6 are thermal energy transport systems and / or fluid treatment systems. In some embodiments, features having similar reference numbers to those in other figures include similar properties, structure, and / or functionality as described in the other figures. In some examples, features of fluid treatment systems 300M.1-300M.6 have similar properties, structure, and / or functionality as fluid treatment systems 300A-M of Figures 3A-M.

[0089] 3M.1, in some embodiments, refrigeration system 300M.1 is substantially similar to refrigeration system 300M shown in FIG. 3M (e.g., system 300M does not include one or more of auxiliary flash tank 352, valve 353, and / or junction valve 355). In some embodiments, refrigeration system 300M.1 does not include one or more of auxiliary flash tank 352, valve 353, and / or junction valve 355. In some embodiments, PX 310 receives fluid flow from PX HP valve 362 rather than from auxiliary flash tank 352.

[0090] In some embodiments, refrigeration system 300M.1 (e.g., a fluid processing system) includes PX 310 configured to receive a first fluid at a first pressure (e.g., via HPin) and a second fluid at a second pressure (e.g., via LPin) and exchange pressure between the first and second fluids. Refrigeration system 300M.1 further includes a condenser 329 (or gas cooler) configured to provide corresponding thermal energy from the first fluid to a corresponding environment (e.g., condenser 329 provides the first fluid to HPin). Refrigeration system 300M.1 further includes a receiver (e.g., flash tank 313) for receiving the first fluid (e.g., LPout) output by PX 310. The receiver (e.g., flash tank 313) forms a chamber that separates the first fluid into a first gas and a first liquid. Refrigeration system 300M.1 further includes a heat exchanger 361 configured to receive a second fluid from a second outlet (e.g., HPout) of PX310 and provide the second fluid to a second inlet (e.g., LPin) of PX310.

[0091] Referring to FIG. 3M.2, in some embodiments, refrigeration system 300M.2 is substantially similar to refrigeration system 300M.1 shown in FIG. 3M.1 (e.g., system 300M.1 except that heat exchanger 361 rejects heat to ambient air and is therefore referred to in this embodiment as a gas cooler (e.g., gas cooler 329B), and adds one or more of heat exchanger 361A, heat exchanger 361B, evaporator 318B, compressor 322B, valve 384, etc.). Refrigeration system 300M.2 can use heat exchangers 361A and 361B to further subcool the fluid flow to HPin of PX 310, and a three-way valve (e.g., valve 384) to control the flow of refrigerant vapor from the MT evaporator to heat exchanger 361B, bypassing the remaining flow directly to the compressor 322A inlet. This helps control superheat at the suction of compressor 322A.

[0092] In some embodiments, refrigeration system 300M.2 includes PX 310, which receives fluid streams HPin and LPin and provides fluid streams HPout and LPout.

[0093] Fluid stream HPout (e.g., stream HPout, stream 1) may be cooled by gas cooler 329B (e.g., gas cooler 2) and subsequently stepped down across valve 316 (e.g., HPV2), where this medium-pressure gas-liquid mixture absorbs heat in heat exchanger 361 (e.g., HX1) and proceeds to port LPin of PX 310 (e.g., as fluid stream LPin).

[0094] The fluid stream exiting gas cooler 329A (e.g., gas cooler effluent stream, stream 2) passes through heat exchanger 361 (e.g., HX1) and is cooled by heat absorbed by the fluid stream from gas cooler 329B (e.g., stream 2). This cooled fluid stream (e.g., cooled stream 2) then passes through heat exchanger 361B (e.g., HX2) and can be further cooled using the stream from evaporator 318 (e.g., MT evaporator) and flash gas valve 320 (e.g., FGBP valve) (e.g., combined stream of MT evaporator outlet and FGBP valve outlet, stream 3) depending on valve 384 (e.g., three-way valve, bypass valve opening). This also provides a way to superheat the fluid stream from evaporator 318 and flash gas valve 320 (e.g., stream 3) before proceeding to compressor 322 (e.g., MT compressor).

[0095] Valve 382 (e.g., HPV1) may operate in parallel with PX 310 and, depending on controller 380 (e.g., controlling algorithm), may require some, all, or none of the fluid flow from gas cooler 329A.

[0096] The LPout fluid stream with a higher liquid content then enters a flash tank 313 (e.g., a receiver) where it is separated into liquid and gas. The remaining operations may be similar to those described in Figure 3M.

[0097] Valve 386 may be a three-way valve capable of controlling flow from heat exchanger 361B and compressor 322B to compressor 322A.

[0098] Evaporator 318A may be a medium temperature (MT) evaporator (eg, a refrigeration unit), and evaporator 318B may be a low temperature (LT) evaporator (eg, a freezer).

[0099] Referring to FIG. 3M.3, in some embodiments, refrigeration system 300M.3 is substantially similar to refrigeration system 300M.2 shown in FIG. 3M.2, except that heat exchanger 361B (HX2) is instead used to cool the fluid flow from gas cooler 329A (e.g., stream 1) before the fluid flow proceeds to PX 310 via LPIn (e.g., system 300M.2, where the fluid flow is conditioned in some parts of the system). This may increase the density of the LPIn fluid flow, thereby increasing the mass boost ratio of PX 310. Refrigeration system 300M.3 may use heat exchanger 361B to cool the fluid flow to LPIn of PX 310.

[0100] Referring to FIG. 3M.4, in some embodiments, refrigeration system 300M.4 is substantially similar to refrigeration system 300M.3 shown in FIG. 3M.3 (e.g., system 300M.3, with fluid flow regulated in some portions of the system). Refrigeration system 300M.4 may include valve 388 (e.g., low-pressure valve (LPV)) that can increase the pressure of the LPin fluid flow to PX 310 and increase the density of LPin to PX 310. This can increase the mass boost ratio of PX and increase the amount of subcooling available in heat exchanger 361A (e.g., HX1). Refrigeration system 300M.4 may use valve 388 to increase the pressure of the fluid flow toward LPin of PX 310 and use heat exchanger 361B (e.g., HX2) to cool the fluid flow from LPout of PX 310.

[0101] Heat exchanger 361B (e.g., HX2) can be used to reduce the quality of the LPout fluid stream from PX 310 and increase the liquid content of the fluid stream before it flows to flash tank 313 (e.g., receiver).

[0102] Referring to Figure 3M.5, in some embodiments, refrigeration system 300M.5 is substantially similar to refrigeration system 300M.2 shown in Figure 3M.2 (e.g., system 300M.2, where fluid flow is regulated in some parts of the system), except that stream 3 emerges from evaporator 318B (e.g., LT evaporator) and is used in heat exchanger 361B (e.g., HX2) to further subcool stream 1. In some embodiments, refrigeration system 300M.5 has heat exchanger 361B that uses the outlet of evaporator 318B (e.g., LT evaporator outlet) instead of the outlet of evaporator 318A (e.g., MT evaporator outlet).

[0103] The fluid flow at the outlet of the evaporator 318B (e.g., the LT evaporator outlet) may be cooler (e.g., much cooler) than the fluid flow at the outlet of the evaporator 318A (e.g., the MT evaporator outlet), achieving more effective cooling in the heat exchanger 361B (e.g., HX2) and allowing the size of the heat exchanger 361B to be reduced, which may be beneficial when the load of the evaporator 318B is a threshold portion of the total system load.

[0104] A three-way valve can be used to control the percentage of the flow rate of Stream 1 that is subcooled in Heat Exchanger 361B. The remaining fraction can bypass Heat Exchanger 361B. This allows for control of the MT suction superheat while still providing additional subcooling to Stream 1 before it enters HPin of PX 310. In some embodiments, this additional subcooling increases the liquid content after expansion through PX 310.

[0105] Referring to FIG. 3M.6, in some embodiments, refrigeration system 300M.6 is substantially similar to refrigeration system 300M.5 shown in FIG. 3M.5 (e.g., system 300M.5, with fluid flow regulated in some portions of the system). Refrigeration system 300M.6 may include heat exchangers 361A-C to help increase the mass fraction of liquid in flash tank 313 (e.g., receiver) and may include valve 392 (e.g., an LPV that reduces pressure from PX 310 to the MT inlet (e.g., of compressor 322A, MT compressor).

[0106] A three-way valve 399 can split the flow between HPin of the PX (stream 1) and a valve 396 (eg, high pressure valve (HPV) 1) (stream 2).

[0107] The fluid flow through LPout cools stream 2 in heat exchanger 361A (e.g., HX1), and the outlet of evaporator 318A (e.g., MT evaporator outlet) (stream 3) can increase the liquid content of stream 2 through heat exchanger 361B (e.g., HX2) before stream 2 enters flash tank 313 (e.g., receiver).

[0108] The fluid flow through LPout may increase its gas content in heat exchanger 361A (e.g., HX1) and exit as superheated vapor. This fluid flow may then be reduced in pressure through valve 392 (e.g., LPV) and merge with the suction flow of compressor 322A (e.g., MT compressor suction flow).

[0109] The outlet stream of gas cooler 329B (e.g., Gas Cooler #2 Outlet stream) can be passed through expansion valve 316 (e.g., HPV2) (stream 4) to reduce pressure and exchange heat with the fluid stream exiting evaporator 318B (e.g., LT Evaporator Outlet, stream 5), which can increase the liquid content of stream 4 before entering flash tank 313 (e.g., receiver).

[0110] Three-way valves (e.g., bypass valves) on streams 3 and 5 can help bypass portions of the streams through heat exchanger 361B (e.g., HX2) and heat exchanger 361C (e.g., HX3), respectively. This can help control superheat at the MT inlet (e.g., of compressor 322A, the MT compressor) and LT inlet (e.g., of compressor 322B, the LT compressor), respectively.

[0111] Figure 3N is a schematic diagram of a refrigeration system 300N including a pressure exchanger (PX) according to certain embodiments. In some embodiments, the refrigeration system 300N is a thermal energy transport system and / or a fluid treatment system. In some embodiments, features having similar reference numbers to those in other figures include similar properties, structures, and / or functions as those described in the other figures. In some embodiments, features of the fluid treatment system 300N have similar properties, structures, and / or functions as the fluid treatment systems 300A-M of Figures 3A-M.

[0112] Fluid processing system 300N may include secondary compressor 356, auxiliary condenser 365, auxiliary parallel valve 368, and / or LP selector valve 366. In some embodiments, secondary compressor 356 receives a portion of the fluid output from secondary evaporator 319 (e.g., a portion of the fluid flowing through secondary evaporator 319 from flash tank 313). Secondary evaporator 319 may be a low-temperature (LT) evaporator, and evaporator 318 may be a medium-temperature (MT) evaporator. In some embodiments, secondary compressor 356 is a LT compressor, and compressor 322 is a MT compressor. Secondary compressor 356 may increase the pressure of the fluid output from secondary evaporator 319 to the pressure of the fluid output from evaporator 318. Those skilled in the art should recognize that any of systems 300A-300M may be modified to include secondary evaporator 319 and secondary compressor 356. The secondary evaporator 319 can be maintained at a lower pressure than the evaporator 318, and the secondary compressor 356 can increase the pressure of the output from the secondary evaporator 319 to approximately the same pressure as the fluid output from the evaporator 318. The fluid output from the evaporator 318 can be combined with the fluid output from the secondary compressor 356. In some embodiments, the secondary compressor 356 is controlled by a controller 380. In some examples, the controller 380 may cause the secondary compressor 356 to increase the pressure of the fluid based on received sensor data (e.g., pressure sensor data, etc.). In some embodiments, the secondary compressor 356 is driven by a motor. The motor may be controlled by the controller 380.

[0113] In some embodiments, the auxiliary condenser 365 receives the second fluid from the high-pressure outlet of the PX 310. The auxiliary condenser 365 may be a condenser and / or a gas cooler as described herein. In some embodiments, the auxiliary condenser 365 is a heat exchanger that exchanges thermal energy (e.g., heat) between the second fluid and a medium in the environment. In some embodiments, the auxiliary condenser 365 exchanges thermal energy between the second fluid and the same environment with which the condenser 329 exchanges thermal energy. In other embodiments, the auxiliary condenser 365 exchanges thermal energy between the second fluid and a different environment with which the condenser 329 exchanges thermal energy. In some embodiments, the auxiliary condenser 365 operates at a different pressure (e.g., a lower pressure) than the condenser 329. The auxiliary condenser 365, which operates at a lower pressure than the condenser 329, can eliminate the need for a booster (e.g., HP booster 324) to compensate for this pressure difference, since the (e.g., high-pressure) second fluid output from the PX 310 may be at a lower pressure than the pressure of the condenser 329.

[0114] In some embodiments, the second fluid flows from auxiliary condenser 365 to auxiliary parallel valve 368. In some embodiments, auxiliary parallel valve 368 is substantially similar to parallel valve 348. In some examples, auxiliary parallel valve 368 is a flow control valve and may control the flow of the second fluid from auxiliary condenser 365 to flash tank 313. In some embodiments, auxiliary parallel valve 368 is an expansion valve. The second fluid may expand as the second fluid flows through auxiliary parallel valve 368. In some embodiments, auxiliary parallel valve 368 may be controlled (e.g., by controller 380). In some examples, controller 380 may actuate (e.g., open or close) auxiliary parallel valve 368 based on sensor data received from one or more sensors of fluid processing system 300M. The second fluid output from auxiliary parallel valve 368 may, in some embodiments, be combined with the fluid output from parallel valve 348.

[0115] Fluid treatment system 300N, in some embodiments, may include an LP selector valve 366. LP selector valve 366 may receive gas output from flash tank 313 via a first port and / or fluid output from flash gas valve 320, evaporator 318, and / or secondary compressor 356 (upstream of compressor 322) via a second port. LP selector valve 366 may direct gas and / or fluid flow toward LP booster 314 via a third port. In some embodiments, LP selector valve 366 is controllable. In some examples, a user (e.g., an engineer, operator, technician, etc.) may actuate LP selector valve 366 (e.g., open or close the first, second, and / or third ports) and / or controller 380 may actuate LP selector valve 366. In some embodiments, controller 380 actuates LP selector valve 366 based on received sensor data. In some embodiments, LP selector valve 366 receives a gas flow from flash tank 313 through a first port and directs the gas flow to LP booster 314 through a third port while the second port is closed. In some embodiments, LP selector valve 366 receives a fluid flow upstream of compressor 322 through a second port and directs the fluid flow to the LP booster through a third port while the first port is closed.

[0116] Figure 3O is a schematic diagram of a refrigeration system 300O including a pressure exchanger (PX) according to certain embodiments. In some embodiments, the refrigeration system 300O is a thermal energy transport system and / or a fluid treatment system. In some embodiments, features having similar reference numbers to those in other figures include similar properties, structures, and / or functions as those described in other figures. In some examples, features of the fluid treatment system 300O have similar properties, structures, and / or functions as the fluid treatment systems 300A-N of Figures 3A-3N.

[0117] Fluid processing system 300O may include multiple heat exchangers to provide corresponding thermal energy from the first fluid (e.g., upstream of the high-pressure inlet of PX 310) and the fluid output from flash tank 313. In some embodiments, the first fluid flows from condenser 329 to one of HX 370, HX 372, or HX 374 and then to the high-pressure inlet of PX 310. In some embodiments, heat exchanger (HX) 370 provides corresponding thermal energy from the fluid output from condenser 329 to the fluid output from evaporator 318. Fluid may flow from the outlet of evaporator 318 to HX 370 and then to compressor 322. In some embodiments, HX 372 provides corresponding thermal energy from the fluid output from condenser 329 to the fluid output from flash gas valve 320. In some embodiments, HX 372 forms part of the flash gas flow path between flash tank 313 and compressor 322. Fluid may flow from the flash gas valve 320 to the HX 372 and then to the compressor 322. In some embodiments, the HX 374 provides corresponding thermal energy from the fluid output from the condenser 329 to the fluid output from the secondary evaporator 319. The fluid may flow from the secondary evaporator 319 to the HX 374 and then to the secondary compressor 356. The fluid may then flow from the secondary compressor 356 to the compressor 322. Multiple heat exchangers can warm the fluid output from the evaporator 318, the secondary evaporator 319, and / or the flash gas valve 320 while cooling the first fluid flow entering the high-pressure inlet of the PX 310. Multiple heat exchangers can superheat the fluid output. This heating of the fluid can increase the fluid pressure while providing sufficient superheat for stable and reliable operation of the compressor 322 and the secondary compressor 356. The increased pressure (e.g., of the fluid output from the evaporator 318 and the fluid output from the secondary evaporator 319) can reduce the work of the compressor 322 and the secondary compressor 356, thereby reducing the energy consumed by the compressor 322 and the secondary compressor 356 and increasing the efficiency of the system.

[0118] Figure 3P is a schematic diagram of a refrigeration system 300P including a pressure exchanger (PX) according to certain embodiments. In some embodiments, the refrigeration system 300P is a thermal energy transport system and / or a fluid treatment system. In some embodiments, features having similar reference numbers to those in other figures include similar properties, structures, and / or functions as those described in the other figures. In some examples, features of the fluid treatment system 300P have similar properties, structures, and / or functions as the fluid treatment systems 300A-O of Figures 3A-3O.

[0119] Fluid treatment system 300P may include HX 370 and / or HX 374. In some embodiments, fluid treatment system 300P is substantially similar to fluid treatment system 300O, but excludes HX 372. In some embodiments, the fluid output from flash gas valve 320 is combined with the fluid output from evaporator 318 before the combined fluid is provided to heat exchanger 370.

[0120] 4A is a schematic diagram of a refrigeration system 400A including a pressure exchanger (PX) and one or more ejectors according to certain embodiments. In some embodiments, the refrigeration system 400A is a thermal energy transport system and / or a fluid treatment system. In some embodiments, features having similar reference numbers to those in other figures include similar properties, structures, and / or functions as those described in the other figures. In some examples, features of the fluid treatment system 400A have similar properties, structures, and / or functions as the fluid treatment systems 300A-P of FIGS. 3A-3P.

[0121] The fluid treatment system 400A can include one or more ejectors. An ejector can be a device configured to increase the pressure of a low-pressure stream by using a high-pressure stream. The ejector can use a converging nozzle to increase fluid velocity to convert high static pressure into velocity pressure. The inclusion of an ejector in the fluid treatment system 400A can utilize high-pressure fluid to increase the pressure of a low-pressure fluid without a pump or compressor, thus reducing energy consumption and increasing the efficiency of the device.

[0122] In some embodiments, fluid processing system 400A includes LP ejector 476 and / or HP ejector 478. LP ejector 476 may increase the pressure of the second fluid provided to the low-pressure inlet of PX 310. In some embodiments, LP ejector 476 receives the gas flow output from flash tank 313 via the flash tank gas outlet. The gas flow received by LP ejector 476 may be diverted from the flash gas bypass flow path. LP ejector 476 may receive a portion of the fluid output from compressor 322 via LP ejector flow valve 480 to increase (e.g., boost) the pressure of the second fluid. In some examples, ejector 476 may increase the pressure of the second fluid by approximately 30-50 psi (approximately 206.84-344.74 kPa). In some embodiments, LP ejector flow valve 480 controls the flow of high-pressure fluid to LP ejector 476. The high-pressure fluid may be combined with a low-pressure fluid (e.g., a low-pressure second fluid) in the LP ejector 476 to increase the pressure of the low-pressure fluid. The LP ejector flow valve 480 may be controlled by the controller 380. In some embodiments, the controller 380 actuates the LP ejector flow valve 480 based on sensor data received by the controller 380. In some embodiments, the LP ejector 476 performs substantially similar functions as the LP booster 314.

[0123] The HP ejector 478 can increase the pressure of the second fluid output from the high-pressure outlet of the PX 310. The HP ejector 478 can receive a portion of the fluid output from the compressor 322 via an HP ejector flow valve 482 to increase (e.g., boost) the pressure of the second fluid. In some examples, the ejector 478 can increase the pressure of the second fluid by approximately 30 to 50 psi (approximately 206.84 to 344.74 kPa). The HP ejector 478 can increase the pressure of the second fluid to the pressure of the condenser 329 (e.g., the internal pressure of the condenser 329, the pressure at the inlet of the condenser 329). In some embodiments, the HP ejector flow valve 482 controls the flow rate of the high-pressure fluid to the HP ejector 478. The high-pressure fluid output from the HP ejector flow valve 482 can be combined with the second fluid in the HP ejector 478 to increase the pressure of the second fluid. The HP ejector flow valve 482 may be controlled by the controller 380. In some embodiments, the controller 380 actuates the HP ejector flow valve 482 based on sensor data received by the controller 380. In some embodiments, the HP ejector 478 performs substantially similar functions as the HP booster 324.

[0124] 4B is a schematic diagram of a refrigeration system 400B including a pressure exchanger (PX) and one or more ejectors, according to certain embodiments. In some embodiments, refrigeration system 400B is a thermal energy transport system and / or a fluid treatment system. In some embodiments, features having similar reference numbers to those in other figures include similar properties, structures, and / or functions as those described in the other figures. In some examples, features of fluid treatment system 400B have similar properties, structures, and / or functions as fluid treatment systems 300A-P of FIGS. 3A-3P.

[0125] Fluid processing system 400B may include parallel compressor 350 and / or parallel ejector 477. In some embodiments, parallel ejector 477 increases the pressure of a portion of the fluid output from evaporator 318 (e.g., upstream of the inlet of compressor 322). Parallel ejector 477 may increase the pressure of a portion of the fluid output from condenser 329 to the pressure of flash tank 313. Parallel compressor 350 may receive the fluid output from parallel ejector 477. Additionally, in some embodiments, parallel compressor 350 may receive gas output from flash tank 313, as described herein. In some embodiments, the gas output from flash tank 313 is combined with the fluid output from parallel ejector 477. PX 310 raises the pressure of a portion of this combined stream from the pressure of flash tank 313 (e.g., flash tank pressure) to the pressure of condenser 329 (e.g., condenser pressure, gas cooler pressure) after the fluid passes through LP booster 314. Fluid flow from flash tank 313 that exceeds the capacity of PX 310 can be received by parallel compressor 350. Parallel compressor 350 can raise the pressure of the stream to the pressure of condenser 329. By raising the fluid pressure by the combined parallel ejector 477, PX 310, and parallel compressor 350, the amount of work performed by compressor 322 is reduced, thus reducing the energy consumed by compressor 322 and increasing the efficiency of the system.

[0126] In some embodiments, the parallel ejector receives high-pressure fluid output from the condenser 329 via a parallel ejector flow valve 484. The high-pressure fluid may be combined with a portion of the fluid (e.g., at a relatively low pressure) output from the evaporator 318 in the parallel ejector 477 to increase the pressure of the portion of the fluid output from the evaporator 318. In some embodiments, the parallel ejector 477 increases the pressure of the portion of the fluid from the evaporator 318 by approximately 200 psi (approximately 1.379 MPa). In some embodiments, the parallel ejector flow valve 484 is a valve that controls the flow of high-pressure fluid to the parallel ejector 477. In some embodiments, the parallel ejector flow valve 484 is controlled by the controller 380. In some examples, the controller 380 may operate the parallel ejector flow valve 484 based on sensor data received by the controller 380.

[0127] 5A is a schematic diagram of a refrigeration system 500A including a pressure exchanger (PX) and a secondary evaporator according to certain embodiments. In some embodiments, the refrigeration system 500A is a thermal energy transport system and / or a fluid treatment system. In some embodiments, features having similar reference numbers to those in other figures include similar properties, structures, and / or functions as those described in other figures. In some examples, features of the fluid treatment system 500A have similar properties, structures, and / or functions as the fluid treatment systems 300A-P of FIGS. 3A-3P.

[0128] Fluid treatment system 500A may include a secondary evaporator 319, a secondary expansion valve 358, and / or a secondary compressor 356. A description of secondary evaporator 319, secondary expansion valve 358, and / or secondary compressor 356 may be included herein in connection with FIG. 3M. In some embodiments, fluid output from secondary compressor 356 is provided to a low-pressure inlet of PX 310. Secondary compressor 356 reduces the work performed by compressor 322, reducing the energy consumed by compressor 322 and thus increasing the efficiency of the system.

[0129] 5B is a schematic diagram of a refrigeration system 500B including a pressure exchanger (PX) and a secondary evaporator, according to certain embodiments. In some embodiments, the refrigeration system 500B is a thermal energy transport system and / or a fluid treatment system. In some embodiments, features having similar reference numbers to those in other figures include similar properties, structures, and / or functions as those described in the other figures. In some examples, features of the fluid treatment system 500B have similar properties, structures, and / or functions as the fluid treatment systems 300A-P of FIGS. 3A-3P.

[0130] Fluid processing system 500B may include a medium-temperature-low-temperature valve 558 (e.g., MT-LT valve 558). The MT-LT valve 558 may control the flow rate of the fluid output from evaporator 318 and / or the fluid output from flash gas valve 320. The output of the MT-LT valve 558 may be provided to secondary compressor 356. In some embodiments, the output of the MT-LT valve 558 may be combined with the output from secondary evaporator 319. In some examples, the MT-LT valve 558 may adjust the flow rate of a sub-portion of the portion (e.g., fluid output) output from evaporator 318 to be combined with the output from secondary evaporator 319. The fluid from MT-LT valve 558 may be combined with the fluid from secondary evaporator 319 upstream of secondary compressor 356. As the fluid flows through the MT-LT valve 558, the pressure of the fluid may decrease as the fluid expands. In some embodiments, the flow through the MT-LT valve 558 can provide fluid flow to the secondary compressor 356 in addition to the fluid flow from the secondary evaporator 319, so as not to restrict flow through the PX 310 and to utilize the full flow and pressure boost capacity of the PX 310. In some embodiments, the MT-LT valve 558 can be controlled (e.g., actuated) by the controller 380 based on sensor data.

[0131] FIG. 6A is a flow diagram illustrating a method 600A for controlling a fluid processing system (e.g., one or more of fluid processing systems 300A-P of FIGS. 3A-P) according to certain embodiments. In some embodiments, method 600A is performed by processing logic including hardware (e.g., circuits, dedicated logic, programmable logic, microcode, a processing unit, etc.), software (e.g., instructions running on a processing unit, a general-purpose computer system, or a dedicated machine), firmware, microcode, or a combination thereof. In some embodiments, method 600A is performed, at least in part, by a controller (e.g., controller 180 of FIGS. 1A-D, controller 380 of FIGS. 3A-P). In some embodiments, a non-transitory storage medium stores instructions that, when executed by a processing unit (e.g., controller 180 of FIGS. 1A-D, controller 380 of FIGS. 3A-P), cause the processing unit to perform method 600A.

[0132] For ease of explanation, method 600A is depicted and described as a series of operations. However, operations in accordance with the present disclosure may occur in various orders and / or simultaneously, and with other operations not shown and described herein. Moreover, in some embodiments, not all illustrated operations are performed to implement method 600A in accordance with the subject matter of the present disclosure. In addition, those skilled in the art will understand and appreciate that method 600A may alternatively be represented as a series of interrelated states via a state diagram or events.

[0133] In block 602, processing logic may provide corresponding thermal energy from the first fluid to a corresponding environment via a condenser. In some examples, processing logic (e.g., of controller 380) may operate one of systems 300A-P to reject heat from the fluid via condenser 329 and / or auxiliary condenser 365. Processing logic may actuate one or more valves, operate one or more pumps or compressors, and / or operate a pressure exchanger. Specifically, the first fluid may be caused to flow through a condenser. Processing logic may also cause a compressor (e.g., compressor 322) to direct the fluid toward a condenser (e.g., condenser 329) based on sensor data (e.g., temperature sensor data, pressure sensor data, flow sensor data, etc.). The first fluid may be at a first temperature when entering the condenser and at a second (e.g., lower) temperature when exiting the condenser. The condenser can facilitate heat transfer from the first fluid to a corresponding environment (eg, an environment to which the outside of the condenser is exposed) to reduce the temperature of the first fluid.

[0134] At block 604, processing logic may cause a pressure exchange between the first fluid and the second fluid via a pressure exchanger (e.g., PX 310). In some examples, processing logic (e.g., of controller 380) may operate the pressure exchanger to exchange pressure between the first fluid and the second fluid. Specifically, processing logic may open one or more valves and cause one or more pumps and / or compressors to provide the first fluid and the second fluid to an inlet of the pressure exchanger. Processing logic may cause a compressor and / or a booster (e.g., LP booster 314) to flow the first fluid and the second fluid (respectively) through the pressure exchanger based on sensor data (e.g., temperature sensor data, pressure sensor data, flow sensor data, etc.). The first fluid may be provided to a first inlet of the pressure exchanger at a first pressure, and the second fluid may be provided to a second inlet of the pressure exchanger at a second pressure. The first pressure may be higher than the second pressure. In some embodiments (e.g., in embodiments where the pressure exchanger is a rotary pressure exchanger), the processing logic may cause a motor to rotate a rotor of the pressure exchanger. Pressure may be exchanged between the first and second fluids by providing the first and second fluids to an inlet of the pressure exchanger via a compressor and / or a booster and / or by rotating the rotor of the pressure exchanger via a motor. The first fluid may exit the pressure exchanger through the first outlet at a third pressure, and the second fluid may exit the pressure exchanger through the second outlet at a fourth pressure. The third pressure may be lower than the fourth pressure.

[0135] In block 606, the processing logic may cause the first fluid to separate into a first gas and a first liquid. The separation of the first fluid into liquid and gas components may occur in a receiver (e.g., flash tank 313) configured to receive the first fluid output from the pressure exchanger. In some embodiments, the processing logic (e.g., of controller 380) may regulate the inlet, outlet, and / or internal pressure of the receiver to facilitate the separation of the first fluid into the first gas and the first liquid based on sensor data (e.g., temperature sensor data, pressure sensor data, flow sensor data, etc.). The processing logic may cause the first fluid to flow from the pressure exchanger to the receiver. In some embodiments, the first fluid exits the pressure exchanger through a first outlet of the pressure exchanger and flows into a chamber formed by the receiver. Within the chamber, the liquid (e.g., the first liquid) collects at the bottom of the chamber and the gas (e.g., the first gas) collects toward the top of the chamber. Liquid can exit the chamber (e.g., toward an expansion valve and / or evaporator), and gas can exit the chamber (e.g., via a gas outlet of the receiver) and flow toward and / or along a flash gas bypass flow path (e.g., to bypass the evaporator).

[0136] At block 608, processing logic may increase the pressure of a portion of the first gas via a booster (e.g., LP booster 314) to form a second fluid and provide the second fluid to a pressure exchanger. In some embodiments, processing logic (e.g., of controller 380) may cause a booster (e.g., a pump or compressor) to increase the pressure of the gas (e.g., a portion of the first gas). The gas may be diverted from the flash gas bypass flow path. In some embodiments, processing logic may drive the booster with a motor (e.g., the processing logic turns on the motor) based on sensor data (e.g., temperature sensor data, pressure sensor data, flow sensor data, etc.). The booster may cause a small pressure increase in the fluid (e.g., “boost” the pressure). The booster may increase the pressure of the fluid to a second pressure. The booster may be a positive displacement booster or a centrifugal booster (e.g., a positive displacement pump or compressor, or a centrifugal pump or compressor). In some embodiments, the booster provides a second fluid at a second pressure to a second inlet of the pressure exchanger.

[0137] FIG. 6B is a flow diagram illustrating a method 600B for controlling a fluid processing system (e.g., one or more of fluid processing systems 400A, 400B of FIGS. 4A and 4B) according to certain embodiments. In some embodiments, method 600B is performed by processing logic including hardware (e.g., circuits, dedicated logic, programmable logic, microcode, a processing unit, etc.), software (e.g., instructions running on a processing unit, a general-purpose computer system, or a dedicated machine), firmware, microcode, or a combination thereof. In some embodiments, method 600B is performed, at least in part, by a controller (e.g., controller 180 of FIGS. 1A-1D, controller 380 of FIGS. 4A and 4B, etc.). In some embodiments, a non-transitory storage medium stores instructions that, when executed by a processing unit (e.g., controller 180 of FIGS. 1A-1D, controller 380 of FIGS. 4A and 4B, etc.), cause the processing unit to perform method 600B. In some examples, method 600B has similar operations as method 600A of FIG. 6A, etc.

[0138] For ease of explanation, method 600B is depicted and described as a series of operations. However, operations in accordance with the present disclosure may occur in various orders and / or simultaneously, and with other operations not shown and described herein. Moreover, in some embodiments, not all illustrated operations are performed to implement method 600B in accordance with the subject matter of the present disclosure. In addition, those skilled in the art will understand and appreciate that method 600B may alternatively be represented as a series of interrelated states via a state diagram or events.

[0139] In block 612, processing logic may provide corresponding thermal energy from the first fluid to a corresponding environment via a condenser. Block 612 may be similar to block 602 of FIG. 6A.

[0140] In block 614, processing logic may cause pressure to be exchanged between the first fluid and the second fluid via a pressure exchanger (e.g., PX 310). Block 614 may be similar to block 604 of FIG. 6A.

[0141] In some embodiments, processing logic may separate the first fluid into a first gas and a first liquid at block 616. Block 616 may be similar to block 606 of FIG. 6A.

[0142] At block 618, processing logic may increase the pressure of a portion of the first gas via an ejector (e.g., LP ejector 476) to form a second fluid and provide the second fluid to a pressure exchanger. In some embodiments, processing logic (e.g., of controller 380) may cause the ejector to increase the pressure of the gas (e.g., a portion of the first gas) based on sensor data (e.g., temperature sensor data, pressure sensor data, flow sensor data, etc.). The gas (e.g., a portion of the first gas) may be diverted from the flash gas bypass flow path. In some embodiments, processing logic may actuate an ejector flow valve (e.g., LP ejector flow valve 480) to an open position to provide a supply of high-pressure fluid to the ejector to increase the pressure of the gas to a second pressure. The high-pressure fluid may be combined with the gas to form a second fluid at a second pressure. In some embodiments, the ejector provides a second fluid at a second pressure to a second inlet of the pressure exchanger.

[0143] FIG. 6C is a flow diagram illustrating a method 600C for controlling a fluid processing system (e.g., one or more of fluid processing systems 500A, 500B of FIGS. 5A and 5B) according to certain embodiments. In some embodiments, method 600C is performed by processing logic including hardware (e.g., circuits, dedicated logic, programmable logic, microcode, a processing unit, etc.), software (e.g., instructions running on a processing unit, a general-purpose computer system, or a dedicated machine), firmware, microcode, or a combination thereof. In some embodiments, method 600C is performed, at least in part, by a controller (e.g., controller 180 of FIGS. 1A-1D, controller 380 of FIGS. 5A and 5B, etc.). In some embodiments, a non-transitory storage medium stores instructions that, when executed by a processing unit (e.g., controller 180 of FIGS. 1A-1D, controller 380 of FIGS. 5A and 5B, etc.), cause the processing unit to perform method 600C. In some examples, method 600C includes similar operations to method 600A of FIG. 6A, etc.

[0144] For ease of explanation, method 600C is depicted and described as a series of operations. However, operations in accordance with the present disclosure may occur in various orders and / or simultaneously, and with other operations not shown and described herein. Moreover, in some embodiments, not all illustrated operations are performed to implement method 600C in accordance with the disclosed subject matter. In addition, those skilled in the art will understand and appreciate that method 600C may alternatively be represented as a series of interrelated states via a state diagram or events.

[0145] In block 622, processing logic may provide corresponding thermal energy from the first fluid to a corresponding environment via a condenser. Block 622 may be similar to block 602 of FIG. 6A.

[0146] In block 604, processing logic may cause pressure to be exchanged between the first fluid and the second fluid via a pressure exchanger (e.g., PX 310). Block 624 may be similar to block 604 of FIG. 6A.

[0147] At block 626, processing logic may cause corresponding thermal energy to be provided to a first portion of the first fluid output from the PX from a second corresponding environment via the first evaporator. In some examples, processing logic (e.g., of the controller 380) may operate one of the systems 500A-B to absorb heat from the second environment via the evaporator 318. The processing logic may actuate one or more valves, actuate one or more pumps or compressors, and / or operate a pressure exchanger. Specifically, the first portion of the first fluid may be caused to flow through the first evaporator. The processing logic can cause one or more compressors (e.g., compressor 322, secondary compressor 356) and / or one or more boosters (e.g., HP booster 324) to flow the refrigerant through a pressure exchanger and through a first evaporator (e.g., via an expansion valve such as expansion valve 316) based on sensor data (e.g., temperature sensor data, pressure sensor data, flow sensor data, etc.). The first portion of the first fluid can be at a third temperature upon entering the first evaporator and at a fourth (e.g., higher) temperature upon exiting the first evaporator. The first evaporator can facilitate heat transfer from a second corresponding environment to the first portion of the first fluid.

[0148] At block 628, processing logic may cause corresponding thermal energy to be provided from a third corresponding environment to a second portion of the first fluid output from the PX via a second evaporator. In some examples, processing logic (e.g., of controller 380) may operate one of systems 500A-B to absorb heat from the third environment via secondary evaporator 319. Processing logic may actuate one or more valves, operate one or more pumps or compressors, and / or operate a pressure exchanger. Specifically, the second portion of the first fluid may be caused to flow through a secondary evaporator (e.g., a secondary evaporator, an evaporator in parallel with the first evaporator). The processing logic can, based on sensor data (e.g., temperature sensor data, pressure sensor data, flow sensor data, etc.), cause one or more compressors (e.g., compressor 322, secondary compressor 356) and / or one or more boosters (e.g., HP booster 324) to flow the refrigerant through a pressure exchanger and through a secondary evaporator (e.g., via an expansion valve such as secondary expansion valve 358). The second portion of the first fluid can be at a fifth temperature upon entering the second evaporator and at a sixth (e.g., higher) temperature upon exiting the second evaporator. The second evaporator can facilitate heat transfer from a third portion corresponding to the second portion of the first fluid. In some embodiments, the temperature of the third environment is lower than the temperature of the second environment. In some embodiments, the second environment and the third environment have the same (e.g., substantially the same) temperature. In some embodiments, the second environment and the third environment are the same environment.

[0149] At block 630, processing logic may increase the pressure of the first portion output from the first evaporator via a first compressor. The processing logic may provide the first portion to a condenser. In some examples, processing logic (e.g., of controller 380) may operate a first compressor (e.g., compressor 322) to increase the pressure of the fluid output from the evaporator (e.g., evaporator 318). The processing logic may cause a motor to drive the first compressor based on sensor data (e.g., temperature sensor data, pressure sensor data, flow sensor data, etc.) (e.g., processing logic may turn on a motor coupled to the first compressor). The compressor may be either a positive displacement compressor or a centrifugal compressor. The processing logic may cause the motor to drive the compressor. In some embodiments, the compressor provides the increased-pressure first portion (of the first fluid) to a condenser (e.g., condenser 329).

[0150] At block 632, processing logic may increase the pressure of a second portion output from the second evaporator through a second compressor to form a second fluid and provide the second fluid to a pressure exchanger. In some embodiments, processing logic (e.g., of controller 380) may cause a secondary compressor (e.g., secondary compressor 356) to increase the pressure of the fluid output by the secondary evaporator (e.g., secondary evaporator 319). Processing logic may cause a motor to drive the second compressor (e.g., processing logic may turn on a motor coupled to the second compressor). In some embodiments, processing logic may cause the second compressor to increase the pressure of a second portion of the first fluid (e.g., output by the second evaporator) to a second pressure to form the second fluid (e.g., provided to the pressure exchanger) based on sensor data (e.g., temperature sensor data, pressure sensor data, flow sensor data, etc.). In some embodiments, the compressor provides a second fluid at a second pressure to a second inlet of the pressure exchanger.

[0151] 7 is a block diagram illustrating a computer system 700 according to certain embodiments. In some embodiments, computer system 700 is a client device. In some embodiments, computer system 700 is a controller device (e.g., server, controller 180 of FIGS. 1A-D, controller 380 of FIGS. 3A-P, 4A, 4B, 5A, and 5B).

[0152] In some embodiments, computer system 700 is connected to other computer systems (e.g., via a network such as a local area network (LAN), an intranet, an extranet, or the Internet). Computer system 700 operates in the capacity of a server or a client computer in a client-server environment, or as a peer computer in a peer-to-peer or distributed network environment. In some embodiments, computer system 700 is provided by a personal computer, a tablet PC, a set-top box (STB), a personal digital assistant (PDA), a cellular phone, a web appliance, a server, a network router, switch, or bridge, or any device capable of executing a set of instructions (sequential or otherwise) that specify operations to be performed by that device. Furthermore, the term "computer" is intended to include any collection of computers that individually or jointly execute a set(s) of instructions to perform any one or more of the methods described herein.

[0153] In some embodiments, computer system 700 includes a processing unit 702, volatile memory 704 (e.g., random access memory (RAM)), non-volatile memory 706 (e.g., read-only memory (ROM) or electrically erasable programmable ROM (EEPROM)), and / or data storage device 716, which communicate with each other via a bus 708.

[0154] In some embodiments, processing unit 702 is provided by one or more processors, such as a general-purpose processor (in some examples, a complex instruction set computing (CISC) microprocessor, a reduced instruction set computing (RISC) microprocessor, a very long instruction word (VLIW) microprocessor, a microprocessor implementing other types of instruction sets, or a microprocessor implementing combined types of instruction sets) or a specialized processor (e.g., in some examples, an application specific integrated circuit (ASIC), a field programmable gate array (FPGA), a digital signal processor (DSP), or a network processor, etc.). In some embodiments, processing unit 702 is provided by one or more of a single processor, multiple processors, a single processor with multiple processing cores, and / or the like.

[0155] In some embodiments, computer system 700 further includes a network interface device 722 (e.g., coupled to a network 774). In some embodiments, computer system 700 includes one or more input / output (I / O) devices. In some embodiments, computer system 700 also includes a video display unit 710 (e.g., a liquid crystal display (LCD)), an alphanumeric input device 712 (e.g., a keyboard), a cursor control device 714 (e.g., a mouse), and / or a signal generating device 720.

[0156] In some implementations, a data storage device 718 (e.g., disk drive storage, fixed and / or removable storage devices, fixed disk drives, removable memory cards, optical storage, network attached storage (NAS), and / or storage area networks (SANs)) includes a non-transitory computer-readable storage medium 724 that stores instructions 726 that encode any one or more of the methods or functions described herein to implement the methods described herein.

[0157] In some embodiments, the instructions 726 also reside, completely or partially, within the volatile memory 704 and / or within the processing unit 702 during execution by the computer system 700; and thus, in some embodiments, the volatile memory 704 and the processing unit 702 also constitute machine-readable storage media.

[0158] Although the computer-readable storage medium 724 is shown as a single medium in the illustrated example, the term "computer-readable storage medium" is intended to include a single medium or multiple media (e.g., centralized or distributed databases and / or associated caches and servers) that store one or more sets of executable instructions. The term "computer-readable storage medium" is also intended to include any tangible medium that is capable of storing or encoding a set of instructions for execution by a computer that cause the computer to perform any one or more of the methods described herein. The term "computer-readable storage medium" is intended to include, but is not limited to, solid-state memory, optical media, and magnetic media.

[0159] The methods, components, and features described herein may be implemented by discrete hardware components or may be integrated into the functionality of other hardware components, such as an ASIC, FPGA, DSP, or similar device. Further, the methods, components, and features may be implemented by firmware modules or functional circuits within a hardware device. Furthermore, the methods, components, and features may be implemented in any combination of hardware devices and computer program components, or in a computer program.

[0160] Unless otherwise specified, terms such as "operate," "regulate," "cause," "control," "determine," "identify," "provide," "receive," "adjust," and the like refer to actions and processes performed or implemented by a computer system that manipulate and transform data represented as physical (electronic) quantities in computer system registers and memory into other data similarly represented as physical quantities in computer system memory or registers or other such information storage, transmission, or display devices. Also, as used herein, terms such as "first," "second," "third," "fourth," and the like are meant as labels to distinguish different elements and may not have an ordinal meaning consistent with their numerical designations.

[0161] The examples described herein also relate to apparatus for performing the methods described herein. This apparatus may be specially constructed to perform the methods described herein, or may comprise a general-purpose computer system that is selectively programmed by a computer program stored on the computer system. Such a computer program may be stored on a computer-readable tangible storage medium.

[0162] The methods and illustrative examples described herein are not inherently related to any particular computer or other apparatus. Various general-purpose systems may be used in accordance with the teachings described herein, or it may prove convenient to construct more specialized apparatus to perform the methods described herein and / or each of their individual functions, routines, subroutines, or operations. Examples of constructions for a variety of these systems are set forth in the description above.

[0163] The above description sets forth numerous specific details, such as examples of particular systems, components, methods, etc., to provide a thorough understanding of some embodiments of the present disclosure. However, it will be apparent to those skilled in the art that at least some embodiments of the present disclosure may be practiced without these specific details. In other instances, well-known components or methods are not described in detail or are presented in simple block diagram form to avoid unnecessarily obscuring the present disclosure. As such, the specific details described are merely exemplary. Particular implementations may vary from these example details and still be contemplated as being within the scope of the present disclosure.

[0164] References throughout this specification to "one embodiment" or "an embodiment" mean that a particular feature, structure, or characteristic described in connection with the embodiment is included in at least one embodiment. Thus, the appearances of the phrase "in one embodiment" or "in an embodiment" in various places throughout this specification do not necessarily all refer to the same embodiment. In addition, the term "or" is intended to mean an inclusive "or" rather than an exclusive "or." When the terms "about," "substantially," or "approximately" are used herein, this is intended to mean that the stated nominal value is accurate to within ±10%. Additionally, the terms "first," "second," "third," "fourth," etc., when used herein, are intended as labels to distinguish between different elements and do not necessarily have an ordinal meaning according to their numerical designations.

[0165] As used herein, the terms "above," "below," "between," "disposed on," and "on" refer to the relative position of one material layer or component with respect to another layer or component. In some instances, a layer disposed on, above, or below another layer may be in direct contact with the other layer or may have one or more intervening layers. Furthermore, a layer disposed between two layers may be in direct contact with the two layers or may have one or more intervening layers. Similarly, unless otherwise specified, a feature disposed between two features may be in direct contact with the adjacent feature or may have one or more intervening layers.

[0166] Although the method operations herein are shown and described in a particular order, the order of each method operation may be changed such that certain operations may be performed in reverse order or such that certain operations may be performed at least partially concurrently with other operations. In other embodiments, the order of separate operations or sub-operations may be intermittent and / or alternating. In one embodiment, the operation of joining multiple metals is performed as a single step.

[0167] It should be understood that the above description is illustrative, and not limiting. Many other embodiments will be apparent to those skilled in the art upon reading and understanding the above description. The scope of the present disclosure should, therefore, be determined with reference to the appended claims, along with the full scope of equivalents to which each claim is entitled.

Claims

1. 1. A system comprising: A pressure exchanger (PX), said PX comprising: receiving a first fluid and a second fluid; exchanging pressure between the first fluid and the second fluid; and a PX configured to output the first fluid and the second fluid; a first heat exchanger, the first heat exchanger comprising: receiving the first fluid from a first gas cooler and the second fluid from a second gas cooler; exchanging a first heat between the first fluid and the second fluid; and a first heat exchanger configured to output the first fluid and the second fluid; a second heat exchanger, the second heat exchanger comprising: receiving a heat exchanger output from the first heat exchanger and an evaporator output from an evaporator; exchanging second heat between the heat exchanger output and the evaporator output; and a second heat exchanger configured to provide the heat exchanger output to the PX and the evaporator output to a compressor.

2. the first fluid is output by the first heat exchanger toward the second heat exchanger; The second fluid is output by the first heat exchanger towards the PX, and The system of claim 1 , wherein the heat exchanger output is the first fluid received by the second heat exchanger from the first heat exchanger and provided to the PX from the second heat exchanger.

3. The system comprises: A first three-way valve, comprising: receiving the first fluid from the first heat exchanger; and a first three-way valve configured to selectively one or more of: provide at least a first portion of the first fluid to a second three-way valve; or provide at least a second portion of the first fluid to the second heat exchanger; The second three-way valve, selectively receiving at least a first portion of the first fluid from the second three-way valve or receiving at least a second portion of the first fluid from the second heat exchanger; and The system of claim 2 , further comprising: the second three-way valve configured to provide the first fluid to the PX.

4. The first fluid is output by the first heat exchanger toward the PX, the second fluid is output by the first heat exchanger towards the second heat exchanger; and The system of claim 1 , wherein the heat exchanger output is the second fluid received by the second heat exchanger from the first heat exchanger and provided to the PX from the second heat exchanger.

5. 2. The system of claim 1, wherein the first gas cooler is configured to receive the first fluid from the compressor and the second gas cooler is configured to receive the second fluid from the PX.

6. 2. The system of claim 1, wherein a three-way valve is configured to receive the evaporator output from the evaporator and to do one or more of: provide at least a first portion of the evaporator output to the second heat exchanger; or provide at least a second portion of the evaporator output to the compressor.

7. 10. The system of claim 1, wherein the first gas cooler is configured to transfer a first amount of thermal energy between the first fluid and a first corresponding environment, and the second gas cooler is configured to transfer a second amount of thermal energy between the second fluid and a second corresponding environment.

8. 2. The system of claim 1, wherein the PX is adapted to receive the first fluid through a high pressure in (HPIN) port and the second fluid through a low pressure in (LPIN) port, and the PX is adapted to output the first fluid through a low pressure out (LPOUT) port and the second fluid through a high pressure out (HPOUT) port.

9. 1. A system comprising: A pressure exchanger (PX), said PX comprising: receiving a first fluid and a second fluid; exchanging pressure between the first fluid and the second fluid; and a PX configured to output the first fluid and the second fluid; a first heat exchanger, the first heat exchanger comprising: receiving the first fluid from a first gas cooler and the second fluid from a second gas cooler; exchanging a first heat between the first fluid and the second fluid; and a first heat exchanger configured to output the first fluid to the PX and the second fluid to the PX; a second heat exchanger, the second heat exchanger comprising: receiving the first fluid from the PX and an evaporator output from an evaporator; exchanging a second heat between the first fluid and the evaporator output; and a second heat exchanger configured to provide the first fluid to a receiver and to provide the evaporator output to a compressor.

10. The system of claim 9 , wherein the receiver forms a chamber configured to separate the first fluid into a first gas and a first liquid.

11. 10. The system of claim 9, wherein the first gas cooler is configured to receive the first fluid from the compressor and the second gas cooler is configured to receive the second fluid from the PX.

12. 10. The system of claim 9, wherein a three-way valve is configured to receive the evaporator output from the evaporator and to one or more of: provide at least a first portion of the evaporator output to the second heat exchanger or provide at least a second portion of the evaporator output to the compressor.

13. 10. The system of claim 9, wherein the first gas cooler is configured to transfer a first amount of thermal energy between the first fluid and a first corresponding environment, and the second gas cooler is configured to transfer a second amount of thermal energy between the second fluid and a second corresponding environment.

14. 10. The system of claim 9, wherein the PX is adapted to receive the first fluid through a high pressure in (HPIN) port and the second fluid through a low pressure in (LPIN) port, and the PX is adapted to output the first fluid through a low pressure out (LPOUT) port and the second fluid through a high pressure out (HPOUT) port.

15. 1. A system comprising: A pressure exchanger (PX), said PX comprising: receiving a first fluid and a second fluid; exchanging pressure between the first fluid and the second fluid; and a PX configured to output the first fluid and the second fluid; a first heat exchanger, the first heat exchanger comprising: receiving the first fluid from the PX and the second fluid from a first gas cooler; exchanging a first heat between the first fluid and the second fluid; and a first heat exchanger configured to output the first fluid to a compressor and the second fluid to a second heat exchanger; The second heat exchanger, receiving a first evaporator output from a first evaporator and the second fluid from the first heat exchanger; exchanging a second heat between the first evaporator output and the second fluid; and the second heat exchanger configured to provide the first evaporator output to the compressor and the second fluid to a receiver.

16. The system further comprises a third heat exchanger, the third heat exchanger comprising: receiving a second evaporator output from the second evaporator and a gas cooler output from the second gas cooler; exchanging a third heat between the second evaporator output and the gas cooler output; and The system of claim 15 configured to provide the second evaporator output to a second compressor and the gas cooler output to the receiver.

17. 16. The system of claim 15, wherein the receiver forms a chamber configured to separate the first fluid into a first gas and a first liquid.

18. the first gas cooler is configured to receive the first fluid from the compressor; the second gas cooler is configured to receive the second fluid from the PX; the first gas cooler is configured to transfer first thermal energy between the first fluid and a first corresponding environment; and 17. The system of claim 16, wherein the second gas cooler is configured to transfer second thermal energy between the second fluid and a second corresponding environment.

19. 16. The system of claim 15, wherein a three-way valve is configured to receive the first evaporator output from the first evaporator and to do one or more of: provide at least a first portion of the first evaporator output to the second heat exchanger; or provide at least a second portion of the first evaporator output to the compressor.

20. 16. The system of claim 15, wherein the PX is adapted to receive the first fluid through a high pressure in (HPIN) port and the second fluid through a low pressure in (LPIN) port, and the PX is adapted to output the first fluid through a low pressure out (LPOUT) port and the second fluid through a high pressure out (HPOUT) port.

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