Cascade Refrigeration Cycle Using Liquid Pump and Expander
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Solution Overview
Problem
Traditional refrigeration technologies face challenges in achieving high energy efficiency and reducing energy consumption, as they are limited by the Carnot theorem, which sets a maximum thermal efficiency that cannot be exceeded, and lack a clear theoretical foundation for refrigerating cycle processes below ambient temperature.
Innovation Solution
The cascade cold dynamic cycle refrigeration apparatus utilizes a single-component or mixed low-boiling-point refrigerant media to transfer cold energy from a low-temperature source to an even lower temperature, following the principles of cold dynamics, which includes the concept of cold energy quality declination and the second law of cold dynamics, eliminating the need for a vapor compressor and enhancing energy conversion efficiency.
Engineering Contradictions & Design Principles
Engineering Contradiction Analysis
1Use of energy by moving object
If traditional vapor compression refrigeration cycle is used, then refrigeration function is achieved, but energy consumption is high and thermal efficiency is limited by Carnot theorem
Solution Approach 1:
The patent replaces the traditional vapor compressor (mechanical compression system) with a liquid circulating pump (hydraulic system). Since liquid is nearly incompressible, the pump simply circulates the refrigerant through the system without requiring mechanical compression, thereby eliminating the compressor and its associated energy losses while maintaining refrigeration functionality through phase change in the evaporator
Solution Approach 2:
The patent utilizes phase transitions of the refrigerant (liquid to vapor in evaporator, vapor to liquid in condenser) as the core mechanism for heat transfer and cooling. The refrigerant absorbs heat during evaporation and releases heat during condensation, enabling efficient heat exchange without requiring mechanical compression work
2Temperature
If vapor compressor is used for refrigeration, then cooling effect is achieved, but device complexity and maintenance requirements increase
Solution Approach 1:
The patent extracts and removes the vapor compressor from the refrigeration system entirely. By using a liquid circulating pump instead, the complex compression mechanism, valves, and associated components are eliminated, resulting in a simpler system with fewer moving parts and reduced maintenance requirements while achieving the same cooling effect through phase change
3Productivity
If traditional refrigeration cycle is used, then refrigeration is achieved, but heat transfer efficiency is insufficient
Solution Approach 1:
The patent leverages phase transitions (evaporation and condensation) of the refrigerant to achieve highly efficient heat transfer. During evaporation, the refrigerant absorbs large amounts of latent heat from the environment; during condensation, it releases latent heat to the surroundings. This phase change mechanism provides superior heat transfer efficiency compared to conventional heat exchange without phase change
Solution Approach 2:
The patent changes the operating parameters of the refrigeration system by using a liquid circulating pump to maintain specific pressure and flow conditions, enabling the refrigerant to undergo phase changes at optimal conditions for maximum heat transfer efficiency
Applied Scientific Principles
This section explains which scientific principles are used to turn an abstract innovation direction into a practical engineering solution.
Function Achieved in This Case
This approach results in substantial energy savings of over 30% compared to traditional systems, simplifies the process, reduces maintenance costs, and enhances heat transfer efficiency while aligning with principles of energy conservation and environmental protection.
Implementation Method 1
The liquid refrigerant 2 from refrigerant tank 1, after being boosted via liquid circulating pump 3
Implementation Method 2
flows via cold regenerator 4
Implementation Method 3
flows via the cold regenerator 4-1 and throttle valve 9-1
Implementation Method 4
flows via cold regenerator 4, cold consuming apparatus 8, and expander 6 to drive the braking equipment 7
Data Source
AI summary
A cascade cold dynamic cycle refrigeration apparatus makes up cold energy with a cryogenic liquid refrigerant by boosting with a dual-stage liquid circulating pump. The temperature of the refrigerant is increased via the cold regenerator before it enters the cold consuming apparatus to provide cold and becomes a gaseous refrigerant. The gaseous refrigerant then flows through the expander to expand and generates work by reducing pressure and temperature. The gaseous refrigerant is condensed and returns to the refrigerant tank via the cold regenerator or/and a throttle valve.