초록 ▼

A method and apparatus for reducing the costs associated with the operation of an air conditioning system is disclosed wherein the highest power usage load is shifted from the hottest part of the day to the night time hours when rates are typically lower. The apparatus includes an ice tank containin

A method and apparatus for reducing the costs associated with the operation of an air conditioning system is disclosed wherein the highest power usage load is shifted from the hottest part of the day to the night time hours when rates are typically lower. The apparatus includes an ice tank containing individually controlled ice building coils and an improved header that produces a water circulation pattern that enhances system efficiency.

대표청구항 ▼

A thermal storage system comprising: an ice tank suitable for containing water, said ice tank having an inside surface and an outside surface; at least two coils, each said coil having a first end and a second end, for transporting refrigerant gas through at least a portion of said ice tank and for

A thermal storage system comprising: an ice tank suitable for containing water, said ice tank having an inside surface and an outside surface; at least two coils, each said coil having a first end and a second end, for transporting refrigerant gas through at least a portion of said ice tank and for forming ice from water circulated through said ice tank; refrigerant supply means for providing a flow of cold refrigerant through each said coil; water circulation means for circulating water freely among said coils in said tank, said water circulation means having an ice water supply header having a plurality of openings for receiving water that has been circulated over said ice formed on said coils; heat exchanger means for receiving ice water from said ice tank and cooling air to be circulated throughout a facility; an ice water return header for receiving water from said heat exchanger means and for distributing said water over the surface of said coils and of the ice thereon so as to cool the water; a plurality of jets connected to said ice water return header for propelling water between adjacent coils; and means for transferring water from the ice tank to the heat exchanger.