Scroll Compressor Pressure Relief Valve for Flooded Start Protection
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Solution Overview
Problem
Climate-control systems, such as heat-pump and refrigeration systems, face inefficiencies and reliability issues due to high fluid pressures during flooded start conditions, which can damage components and disrupt operation.
Innovation Solution
A compressor design with a valve assembly that moves from a closed to an open position when fluid pressure exceeds a predetermined threshold, allowing communication between compression pockets and the suction chamber to relieve pressure, thereby reducing the risk of damage and improving system reliability.
Engineering Contradictions & Design Principles
Engineering Contradiction Analysis
1Reliability
If the compressor operates during flooded start conditions, then the compression function is maintained, but high fluid pressures damage components and disrupt operation
Solution Approach 1:
A pressure relief valve is introduced as an intermediary component between the compression pocket and suction chamber. This valve opens when fluid pressure exceeds a predetermined threshold, providing a controlled pathway for excess pressure to be relieved into the suction chamber, thereby protecting gaskets and fittings from damage while maintaining system operation
Solution Approach 2:
The harmful high pressure is extracted from the compression pocket through the pressure relief valve and discharged into the suction chamber. This separates the harmful effect (excessive pressure) from the functional component (compression pocket), preventing damage to gaskets and fittings while allowing the compressor to continue operating
2Reliability
If a pressure relief mechanism is added, then component protection is improved, but device complexity increases
Solution Approach 1:
The pressure relief valve is designed to operate automatically based on the fluid pressure within the compression pocket. When pressure exceeds the predetermined threshold, the valve self-activates to relieve pressure without requiring external control systems, sensors, or complex actuation mechanisms. The valve closes automatically when pressure returns to normal levels, providing protection with minimal added 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
The solution effectively reduces high fluid pressures during flooded start conditions, enhancing the reliability and efficiency of climate-control systems by preventing damage to gaskets and fittings, and ensuring proper sealing.
Implementation Method 1
The valve assembly is movable from the closed position to the open position when a fluid pressure in the radially intermediate one of the compression pockets exceeds a predetermined threshold value
Data Source
AI summary
A compressor includes a shell, first and second scroll members, a fitting assembly and a valve assembly. The first scroll member includes a first end plate having a first spiral wrap extending therefrom. The second scroll member includes a second end plate having a second spiral wrap extending therefrom and an injection passage formed in the second end plate. The second spiral wrap is meshingly engaged with the first spiral wrap to form compression pockets. The injection passage is in fluid communication with the compression pockets. The fitting assembly is in fluid communication with the injection passage. The valve assembly coupled to one of the second scroll member and the fitting assembly and movable between a closed position in which fluid communication between the compression pockets and the suction chamber is prevented and an open position in which fluid communication between the compression pockets and the suction chamber is allowed.