Dual-Compressor Chiller Pressure Equalization for Baffled Evaporators
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Solution Overview
Problem
Dual compressor chillers face inefficiencies due to higher costs and space requirements for series flow configurations, which are more expensive and space-intensive than single chiller systems, limiting their adoption despite offering efficiency benefits.
Innovation Solution
A refrigeration system with a condenser and evaporator divided into separate chambers by baffles, where each chamber operates at different pressures, using pressure equalization valves and relief systems to manage pressure differences and maintain efficiency without the need for multiple chillers.
Engineering Contradictions & Design Principles
Engineering Contradiction Analysis
1Use of energy by moving object
If series flow dual chiller configuration is used, then refrigeration system efficiency is improved, but device complexity and space requirements increase
Solution Approach 1:
The single chiller is segmented into two separate evaporator chambers (first and second evaporator chambers) that operate at different pressures, allowing series flow cooling action within a single chiller unit. This segmentation enables the efficiency benefits of dual chillers while avoiding the complexity of installing multiple separate chiller units.
Solution Approach 2:
The patent combines the functions of two separate chillers into a single chiller unit by integrating multiple evaporator chambers and compressors within one system. This merging achieves the efficiency of series flow configuration while reducing device complexity and space requirements compared to installing multiple independent chillers.
2Use of energy by moving object
If series flow dual chiller configuration is used, then refrigeration system efficiency is improved, but installation cost increases
Solution Approach 1:
By merging the functionality of two separate chillers into one integrated unit with multiple evaporator chambers, the patent reduces installation costs associated with purchasing, installing, and maintaining multiple separate chiller units while preserving the series flow efficiency benefits.
3Use of energy by moving object
If pressure difference between evaporator chambers is increased, then compressor head is reduced and efficiency is improved, but structural stress on evaporator baffle increases
Solution Approach 1:
The patent optimizes the pressure difference parameter between the first and second evaporator chambers to achieve a balance: maintaining sufficient pressure differential to reduce compressor head and improve efficiency, while limiting the differential to levels that the evaporator baffle structure can safely withstand.
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 configuration allows for the efficiency benefits of series flow chillers to be achieved with a single chiller, reducing compressor capacity and energy consumption while minimizing space and cost requirements.
Implementation Method 1
the process fluid is cooled by an evaporator which absorbs heat from the process fluid through evaporating refrigerant
Implementation Method 2
In a liquid cooled condenser, the refrigerant is generally cooled by a second process fluid, causing the refrigerant to condense into a liquid
Implementation Method 3
The refrigerant may then be compressed in a compressor and transferred to a condenser
Data Source
AI summary
Systems for limiting pressure differences in dual compressor chillers are provided. To achieve the efficiency benefits of series flow chillers within a single unit, an evaporator and/or a condenser may be partitioned into separate chambers by a baffle. Process fluid may then flow through one chamber of the evaporator and/or condenser prior to entering the other. This configuration creates a pressure differential between chambers which may reduce compressor head and result in greater chiller efficiency. However, to maintain the structural integrity of the evaporator and/or condenser baffle, a system for limiting this pressure differential may be employed. This system may include an evaporator pressure equalization valve, a common liquid line, or an equalizing line between separate liquid lines. Methods of operating dual compressor chillers using these systems are also provided.