초록 ▼

A system and method of applying dual centrifugal compressors to a single evaporator and a single condenser in a refrigeration chiller unit. The condenser is split into two chambers by a divider having the same cross-sectional shape as the condenser and having holes provided through which the tubing

A system and method of applying dual centrifugal compressors to a single evaporator and a single condenser in a refrigeration chiller unit. The condenser is split into two chambers by a divider having the same cross-sectional shape as the condenser and having holes provided through which the tubing provided in the condenser passes. The condenser includes a valve in fluid communication with both chambers of the compressor, for selectively equalizing or separating the pressures within the respective chambers. One or both compressors can be operated, according to the load. An independent condenser pressure can be provided for each centrifugal compressor, and thus the problems encountered by the conventional parallel-compressor refrigeration system can be avoided. With the invention, the refrigeration chiller capacity can be maximized and also adjusted to accommodate variable load requirements.

대표청구항 ▼

[ What is claimed is:] [9.] A method of operating a dual centrifugal compressors in a closed refrigeration chiller, the method comprising the steps of:providing a tube and shell condenser with first and second condensing chambers through which extend a common bundle of heat exchanger tubes, said con

[ What is claimed is:] [9.] A method of operating a dual centrifugal compressors in a closed refrigeration chiller, the method comprising the steps of:providing a tube and shell condenser with first and second condensing chambers through which extend a common bundle of heat exchanger tubes, said condenser including a valve in fluid communication with the first and second condenser chambers;selectively applying refrigerant to the shell portion of the first chamber of the heat exchanger by a first centrifugal compressor,selectively applying refrigerant to the shell portion of the second condenser chamber by a second centrifugal compressor,completing a first refrigeration circuit by flowing refrigerant from the first condenser chamber, through an expansion device, and into an evaporator, in fluid communication with the first centrifugal compressor;completing a second refrigeration circuit by flowing refrigerant from the second condenser chamber, through an expansion device, and into an evaporator, in fluid communication with the second centrifugal compressor, andopening the valve when only one of the compressors is on and closing the valve when both of the compressors are on.