Compressor Pipe-to-Casing Insulation to Prevent Refrigerant Leakage
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Solution Overview
Problem
The use of rubber hoses as insulators in compressors can lead to refrigerant leakage and electrical conductivity issues between pipes and the compressor casing.
Innovation Solution
The implementation of insulating members, such as glass, resin, or ceramic materials, fixed between the pipes and the casing, along with connectors that include eyelets and insulators, to ensure electrical insulation without refrigerant leakage.
Engineering Contradictions & Design Principles
Engineering Contradiction Analysis
1Reliability
If a compressor is disassembled for servicing the oil separator, then the oil separator can be maintained, but the compressor must be taken out of service and refrigerant must be discharged
Solution Approach 1:
The compressor is divided into separable modules: the crankcase can be detached from the compressor housing, allowing the oil separator located in the crankcase to be serviced independently while the main compressor remains in service. This segmentation enables partial maintenance without complete system shutdown.
Solution Approach 2:
A service connection or adapter is introduced as an intermediary element that allows access to the oil separator through the crankcase opening while the compressor operates. This intermediary enables refrigerant and oil extraction during operation without requiring full disassembly.
2Reliability
If the compressor housing is opened to service the oil separator, then the oil separator can be accessed, but refrigerant must be discharged to the atmosphere
Solution Approach 1:
A service connection acts as an intermediary pathway that allows refrigerant and oil to be extracted from the crankcase through a controlled interface rather than opening the housing to atmosphere. This intermediary connection maintains system integrity while enabling maintenance operations.
Solution Approach 2:
The mechanical opening of the housing is replaced by a valve-controlled fluid connection system. Instead of physically opening the housing, a service valve and connection allow controlled extraction of refrigerant and oil through sealed pathways, substituting mechanical access with fluid control mechanisms.
3Device complexity
If the compressor is designed as a integrated unit, then structural simplicity is maintained, but the oil separator cannot be serviced without complete disassembly
Solution Approach 1:
The compressor is segmented into serviceable modules with the crankcase designed as a detachable or accessible unit. The oil separator is positioned within the crankcase which can be opened or disconnected, providing maintenance access while preserving the integrated appearance and function during operation.
Solution Approach 2:
The crankcase is pre-designed with service openings, connections, and access points that are prepared in advance for maintenance operations. These preliminary design features enable quick access to the oil separator without requiring complete disassembly, reducing maintenance time and complexity.
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
Effectively insulates the pipes and casing, reducing noise transmission and preventing refrigerant leakage, while maintaining structural integrity and reducing noise interference.
Implementation Method 1
the suction pressure sensor (32) having a piezoelectric or capacitive sensing element
Implementation Method 2
the suction pressure sensor (32) having a piezoelectric or capacitive sensing element
Implementation Method 3
a surge suppressor (40) in the discharge line (14)
Data Source
Figure 1
Figure 2
Figure 3~5
AI summary
A compressor (1) configured to compress a fluid includes an electrically conductive first casing (4) and at least one electrically conductive first pipe (3b, 3c). The at least one first pipe (3b, 3c) is fixed to the first casing (4) with a first insulator (42) interposed therebetween.