Multi-Stage Compressor Internal Interstage Refrigerant Transfer
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Solution Overview
Problem
Existing multi-stage compressors in HVAC systems face inefficiencies due to external interstage transfer pipes, which introduce flow losses and require large thrust bearings to balance tractive forces between impeller stages.
Innovation Solution
A multi-stage compressor design where refrigerant is transferred internally between stages, with the first and second impellers mounted on the same motor shaft, allowing for balanced tractive forces without external pipes and minimizing friction losses.
Engineering Contradictions & Design Principles
Engineering Contradiction Analysis
1Productivity
If external interstage transfer pipes are used to connect compressor stages, then the compressor can achieve multi-stage compression, but flow losses occur and device complexity increases
Solution Approach 1:
The patent merges the interstage transfer function into the compressor housing itself, eliminating external pipes. The housing includes an internal passage that directly connects the discharge of the first impeller to the intake of the second impeller, combining the compression and transfer functions in a single integrated component.
Solution Approach 2:
The patent extracts the interstage transfer function from external piping and relocates it within the compressor housing. By removing the external transfer pipe and placing the transfer passage inside the housing, the design eliminates the associated flow losses and complexity of external connections.
2Productivity
If external interstage transfer pipes are used, then refrigerant can be transferred between stages, but large thrust bearings are required to balance tractive forces
Solution Approach 1:
The patent combines the transfer passage with the compressor housing structure, eliminating the need for separate external piping. This integration allows the tractive forces from both impellers to be naturally balanced through the housing structure, reducing or eliminating the need for large thrust bearings.
3Ease of operation
If external transfer pipes are used, then interstage refrigerant transfer is achieved, but friction losses increase
Solution Approach 1:
The patent extracts the transfer function from external piping and implements it through an internal passage within the housing. This eliminates the friction losses associated with external pipe connections and reduces the overall frictional resistance in the refrigerant transfer path.
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 design enhances efficiency by eliminating external flow losses and reducing the need for large thrust bearings, while maintaining balanced tractive forces, thus improving overall compressor performance.
Implementation Method 1
first stage impeller 42. The refrigerant is compressed by the first stage impeller
Implementation Method 2
second stage impeller 48. The refrigerant is compressed by the second stage impeller
Implementation Method 3
motor shaft 54. The motor shaft and both impellers rotate in unison
Data Source
AI summary
A multi-stage compressor where the refrigerant is transferred from stage to stage internally. The compressor uses a first stage impeller mounted on a first end of motor shaft and a second stage impeller mounted on a second end of the same motor shaft. The motor shaft and both impellers rotate in unison. Refrigerant discharged from the first stage impeller is transferred to the intake of the second state impeller through passages within the compressor itself.