Single-piece valve plate assembly for reciprocating compressor
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Solution Overview
Problem
Conventional reciprocating compressor valve plate assemblies are complex, costly, and inefficient due to the use of multiple plates that restrict refrigerant flow and require extensive manufacturing processes, leading to reduced compressor efficiency.
Innovation Solution
A single-piece valve plate assembly is introduced, eliminating the middle and bottom plates and integrating them into the compressor housing or a suction valve retainer, which reduces manufacturing costs and increases the size of the suction chamber, thereby enhancing refrigerant flow efficiency.
Engineering Contradictions & Design Principles
Engineering Contradiction Analysis
1Strength
If multiple plates are used in the valve plate assembly, then the structural strength is improved, but the device complexity and manufacturing cost increase
Solution Approach 1:
The patent combines multiple separate plates (valve plate, middle plate, bottom plate) into a single integrated valve plate assembly. The middle plate and bottom plate are merged with the main valve plate to form a unitary structure, eliminating the need for separate components while maintaining structural strength through integrated design.
2Strength
If multiple plates are used in the valve plate assembly, then the structural strength is improved, but the manufacturing cost and time increase
Solution Approach 1:
The valve plate, middle plate, and bottom plate are manufactured as a single integrated component rather than separate parts. This merging eliminates multiple manufacturing steps, reduces material waste, and simplifies production while maintaining the structural integrity that would otherwise require multiple reinforced components.
3Strength
If multiple plates are used in the valve plate assembly, then the structural strength is improved, but the refrigerant flow efficiency decreases
Solution Approach 1:
By integrating the middle plate and bottom plate into the main valve plate, the invention creates a streamlined single-piece structure that eliminates flow restrictions caused by multiple separate components. The unified design provides smoother refrigerant flow paths and reduces turbulence, thereby improving flow efficiency while maintaining necessary structural strength.
4Ease of repair
If separate valve plate and suction valve retainer are used, then the ease of repair is improved, but the device complexity increases
Solution Approach 1:
The suction valve retainer is integrated into the valve plate assembly to form a single unitary structure. This merging eliminates the need for separate retention components while maintaining the ability to service the suction valve, as the integrated design allows for straightforward access and replacement of valve components.
Data Source
AI summary
A valve plate assembly for a compressor according to the principles of the present disclosure includes a valve plate and a suction valve retainer. The valve plate is configured to separate suction-pressure working fluid entering a cylinder of the compressor from discharge-pressure working fluid exiting the cylinder of the compressor. The valve plate defines a discharge valve seat. The suction valve retainer is configured to retain a suction valve within a suction valve seat disposed about a central longitudinal axis of the cylinder.