Conference Year
2018
Keywords
Vapor-Injected, Economization, ECU, Charge Estimation, Modeling
Abstract
In recent years, research on economized vapor injected (EVI) compression systems showed potential improvements to both cooling capacity and coefficient of performance (COP). In addition, the operating range of compressors can be extended by reducing the discharge temperature. However, the optimum operation of such systems is directly related to the amount of refrigerant charge, which often is not optimized. Therefore, an accurate charge estimation methodology is required to further improve the operation of EVI compression systems. In this paper, a detailed cycle model has been developed for the economized vapor injected (EVI) compression system. The model aims to predict the performance of EVI systems by imposing the amount of required refrigerant charge as an input. In the cycle model, the EVI compressor was mapped based on the correlation of Tello-Oquendo et al. (2017), whereas evaporator, condenser and economizer heat exchanger models were constructed based on the available ACHP models (Bell, 2010). With respect to charge inventory, the 2-point regression model from Shen et al. (2009) was used to account for inaccurate estimation of refrigerant volumes, ambiguity in slip flow model, solubility of refrigerant in the lubricating oil, among others. The cycle model has been validated with experimental performance data taken with a 5-ton Environmental Control Unit (ECU) that utilizes EVI technology. The developed cycle model showed very good agreement with the data with a MAE in COP of less than 4%. Furthermore, the estimated charge inventory has been compared to the one-point regression model. Results showed that the former method allowed to predict the charge inventory with an MAE of less than 0.5%.