Modeling of Gas Leakage through Compressor Valves
Abstract
Gas leakage in the incomplete sealing of valves may significantly affect the volumetric and isentropic efficiencies of compressors. This paper describes a model developed to predict gas leakage in reed type valves of small reciprocating compressors commonly adopted for household refrigeration. Computations are carried out for a wide range of pressure differences that prevail in the valve clearances during the complete compression cycle. Results for mass flow rate in the suction and discharge valves are used to analyze the influence of geometric parameters on the leakage process. Reed deflection into the valve port due to pressure load is seen to be an important parameter of the analysis.